Make your move to Joint Base Lewis-McChord feel less overwhelming and more like the start of an exciting new chapter.
The JBLM PCS Handbook: Your New Beginning in the Pacific Northwest is a practical, family-friendly guide for service members, spouses, and military families preparing to relocate to JBLM. From reading orders and building a PCS timeline to housing, schools, health care, travel, employment, finances, pets, and settling into a new routine, this handbook helps you plan with confidence.
Inside, you'll find guidance for:
- Preparing documents, budgets, household goods, and travel plans
- Understanding housing choices and your first week at JBLM
- Navigating schools, child care, medical care, and spouse employment
- Adjusting to Pacific Northwest weather, commutes, and local life
- Exploring Tacoma, Olympia, Seattle, parks, trails, and weekend adventures
- Building community, supporting your family's well-being, and preparing for the next PCS
- Finding helpful support resources, including military services, school-planning tools, and crisis contacts
Written by B.P. Thompson, this clear and encouraging guide is designed to help you create a smoother move, a more organized arrival, and a meaningful life at JBLM.
