Starting fresh at a new duty station can bring stress, uncertainty and a long checklist of to-dos. At Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, the Installation Reception Center exists to remove that burden from Soldiers and their Families. Whether someone is arriving solo or with dependents, the IRC’s structured onboarding process ensures they’re not facing it alone.
The five-day in-processing schedule begins immediately after a Soldier signs in. During this window, Soldiers complete everything from medical and dental checks to financial readiness, housing and unit integration briefings. Time is also built in for other personal tasks like enrolling kids in school or securing long-term lodging.
“There’s not a whole lot of downtime once they sign in to the installation,” said 1st Sgt. Lee Smith, the center’s Sponsorship Program lead.
“We keep them occupied here.” JBLM’s Sponsorship Program is a central pillar of the onboarding process. Every Soldier is paired with a sponsor from their gaining unit—someone who can answer questions, share tips and provide that early connection to the new community.
“We want to reduce isolation and make sure Soldiers don’t have to navigate this alone,” Smith explained. It’s especially helpful for younger or first-time movers, who might not know where to begin. To complement those one-on-one connections, JBLM has expanded access to digital tools. A public-facing onboarding website shares up-to-date contacts, frequently asked questions and 24-hour reception support.
“It makes a difference,” said Smith.
“Even if I don’t have data, I know Soldiers are reaching out more and getting the answers they need faster.”
Financial stress—a known contributor to mental health strain—is tackled head-on. With the Smart Voucher program, Soldiers get help filing for reimbursements tied to their PCS move.
“You’re owed this money, and we make sure you get it back fast,” said Capt. Craig Samuel, IRC Commander.
Soldiers complete their vouchers during a scheduled session with finance professionals, ensuring a high approval rate and faster reimbursements. Events on the last day of in-processing tie readiness to resilience. The day starts with the Courage Workout of the Day, where new Soldiers and senior leaders train together.
“It gives Soldiers face time with leadership and a space to talk about goals,” Samuel said.
That’s followed by Keys to Connection, a chaplain-led session focused on purpose, community and wellness. These conversations can surface challenges early and reinforce protective factors against suicide.
“It’s about thinking beyond the uniform—what really matters to you while you’re here,” said Samuel.
The effort is part of a broader Army-wide strategy to address suicide risk through early engagement and connectedness. Families are also encouraged to attend newcomer briefings and resource fairs.
“Getting spouses involved early reduces stress,” said Smith. “They see the resources firsthand, instead of relying on secondhand info.” Post-arrival surveys help JBLM measure what’s working.
“Ninety-five percent of Soldiers report satisfaction with their onboarding experience,” Samuel said.
“That tells us we’re on the right track.” By combining logistical support with real connection, JBLM’s onboarding process strengthens Soldiers and Families from day one.
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