WELCOME TO FORT CAVAZOS, TX THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR YOUR TRANSITION TO FORT CAVAZOS, TX
C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3HOWDY AND WELCOME TO FORT CAVAZOS(FORMERLY FORT HOOD) Here you'll find helpful information to assist with your transition to Fort Cavazos,Texas! I'm Hanna, area native and military spouse. While my husband wasdeployed in 2018 I created the “Fort Cavazos On & Off Post Housing” group to helpfamilies moving to the area. After assisting thousands of families with on posthousing as well as off post rentals, I decided to get my real estate license to helpthose interested in the home buying process as well. I know first-hand thechallenges that come along with relocating to a new area, thus, I compiled theinformation in this handbook that I hope brings you value and helps create asmooth PCS. Feel free to email, call or text me with any questions! Sincerely, Hanna Smelser, Licensed TX Realtor ®**disclaimer: the following information was written November, 2021 and is subject to change. I do not own the rights to any of the photos or information used in this guide**
TABLE OF CONTENTSI. BEFORE YOU ARRIVEWhat Can I do Ahead of Time?What Ifs Types of Moves Living Off-PostLiving On-Post 123413151617182122242627282930IV. HELPFUL RESOURCESMaking FriendsFinding a JobCounseling/SupportLocal Bucket ListTexas Bucket ListConclusion 323435373839III. ONCE YOU ARRIVEImportant Phone Numbers School Zones Military Pay CalendarFort Cavazos MapFort Cavazos Training ScheduleFort Cavazos Transportation C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3II. LIVING AT FORT CAVAZOSI Just Arrived... Now What?Temporary Lodging BAH RatesTricareDental/VisionFinances
1LIVING ON POST .LIVING OFF POST The main areas most people live (in no particular order) include Killeen, Copperas Cove, Harker Heights, Belton, Temple, and Nolanville. Traveling times to post vary. PETSMAKE COPIES OF ALL MEDICAL DOCS FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR CHILDREN You will want to travel with these in hand in case of emergency and so they do not get lost OBTAIN A POA (POWER OF ATTORNEY) SET UP A P.O. BOXRESERVE YOUR HOTELFORT CAVAZOS ALERTSPLAN YOUR FINANCESC A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3WHAT CAN I DO AHEAD OF TIME?All cats and dogs must be registered at the installation veterinary services office within 5days of assignment to a Fort Cavazos Family Housing home. Cats/dogs must be micro-chipped and must wear a current collar with a home address at all times. Cat/dogowners must provide a copy of verification of appropriate immunization along with petregistration to the Fort Cavazos Family Housing community office. Residents may have atotal of two pets (dogs and cats) in any combination. Click here for information regardingregistering pets and pet restrictions:https://winnmilitary.entrata.com/media_library/12710/60b6a302a1aa0787.pdf with the movers. This is a written document that allows you to act upon your spouse’s behalf when he or sheis unavailable. Be aware though when dealing with agencies over the phone they will nothelp you until they can physically see the paperwork, so you might have to fax it.You can set up a P.O. box ahead of time so that you have a forwarding address (332 761st TankBattalion Ave. Fort Cavazos, TX 76544) in advance. The website ishttps://poboxes.usps.com/poboxonline/search/landingPage.doOn and off post hotels fill up quickly. The great thing is they allow you to cancel/modifyyour reservation as long as it is 24 hours prior to scheduled arrival. Book your on postreservation: https://www.ihg.com/armyhotels/hotels/us/en/reservation There are also greatoff-post options as well. Be sure to ask for “extended stay rates” for stays of 30+ days.Stay up-to-date with information about emergencies that may affect Fort Cavazos locations.Follow the III Corps/ Fort Cavazos Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/IIICorpsSave, save, and save your money! You will pay out of pocket for your move and THEN bereimbursed. For those financially responsible individuals, it might be a good time to get areasonable credit card. The Soldier is supposed to attend a Levy Brief prior to obtainingPCS (permanent change of station) orders. If he/she does not, it puts you at adisadvantage. In the levy brief they will go over booking travel, pay and allowances fortravel, shipping household goods (HHG) and he/she can even schedule the HHG date.Information for pcsing with pets or children will also be gone over. The Service Memberwill complete any required paperwork at that time. This is the responsibility of theSoldier to complete.You are able to apply to be on the housing waitlist once you obtain official PCS orders FortCavazos. You will not be active on the waitlist until you sign out of current station.
2TERMINOLOGY:CAN MY SOLDIER HELP ME MOVE?HOW MANY DAYS DOES MY SOLDIER GET TO MOVE?DOES MY SOLDIER COME HOME FIRST OR REPORT TO FORT CAVAZOS?DOES PTDY COUNT AS LEAVE DAYS? No. DO I NEED TO WAIT HERE FOR THE MOVERS?WHEN CAN I GO WITH MY SOLDIER?WHAT IF I'M NOT ON MY SPOUSE'S ORDERS?CAN THEY PICK UP MY HHG FROM A STORAGE UNIT?WHAT IF I DO NOT YET HAVE A HOUSE WHEN MY HHG ARRIVE? They will keep it in storage for you at no cost for 90 days. HOW DO I SET UP THE MOVERS?C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3WHAT IF'S PTDY – Permissive Temporary duty (your Soldier gets to help you move) TLE- Temporary lodging expense (money to stay at hotels during the move) PCS – Permanent change of station (where you are going to be moving to) HHG – Household goods (your household belongings being moved)The answer to most of these questions are “it depends”. In most cases yourSoldier should be allowed to help you move.Up to 10 days PTDY if CONUS (within the U.S.) and up to 15 days PTDY OCONUS (outside ofU.S.). This is at the discretion of the approving supervisor as to how much time will beallotted for the time off to assist with the move. Also, the Soldier is not guaranteed anydays. TDY days includes weekends and holidays. It depends on the approving supervisor. Some Soldiers will go directly to Fort Cavazoswhile others will go home and start leave or PTDY.No. When the Soldier is setting up the movers he/she assigns a designated person tosign the paperwork for the movers. Thus, if you have a friend of family member youtrust and they are willing to be there that day to sign the paperwork, they are able toas long as the Soldier has listed them to do so on paperwork. If you are on their orders and have the plan set in place for moving your stuff you should begood to go. There are stipulations that if you move on post or participate in the Spouse PPPprogram (we will get to that later) that you must arrive within 30 days of spouse’s orders. Soldier will not be given as much allotted weight for HHG move. This can affectreimbursement as well for the move. Yes. If you have HHG where you are living and in a storage unit, they'll pick up from both.You can set it up as long as you have PCS orders and POA (power of attorney) if you arethe spouse and attend the levy brief. You will have to organize this with the JPPSO (JointPersonal Property Shipping Office) at the post closest to you. Otherwise, the Soldier willdo this at AIT/current station, or while in-processing at Fort Cavazos. The Army walks theSoldier through the paperwork and the Army assigns the moving company. However, I dostrongly suggest calling the movers once the agency is assigned and ensuring they havereceived all the needed paperwork, addresses, and approval from the Army.
3WHAT TYPE OF A MOVE SHOULD I DO? Government Move: Partial Dity: PPM (Personally Procured Move): C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3TYPES OF MOVESFYI: The movers will not move your aerosols and products that are flammable. Do not packanything in boxes as they will take it out and repack it in their own boxes. Just be aware youare allotted a certain amount of weight for your move. Resource: www.petscanstay.com for pet friendly hotels. Also, always ask for a military discountat your lodging facility! This website shows your allotted weight allowance:https://www.move.mil/dod/before_you_begin/weight_allowance.cfm Have the army pack and move all of your belongings. You do not need to prep anything.They will also deliver it and unpack everything too.You pack everything in boxes and then the movers come pick it up, ship it and deliverit. You might make some money from this depending on how heavy your shipment is. You pack and move everything yourself. The Army reimburses you for the move. You canbe reimbursed up to 100% of the GCC (Government Constructive Cost). An advanceallowance can be authorized to defray out-of-pocket moving expenses.
4The main areas most people live at (in no particular order) include Killeen, Copperas Cove,Harker Heights, Belton, Temple, and Nolanville. All communities are within a 30-minutedrive to Fort and travel times vary.The websites I suggest to help find housing: ahrn.com (can help find temporary lodgingtoo), trulia.com (shows crime and school averages, ihrent.com and redfin.com, and my site;https://hannasmelser.exprealty.com/Pros: Being in an area with more activities, getting some seclusion from the military lifestyle. Cons: The gate being backed up during rush hour, traffic during morning/lunch/after work,Income requirement and paying a deposit.C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3LIVING OFF-POSTResource: BAH website: BAH is meant to cover both your monthly rent and utilities. You can find out your anticipated monthly BAH at the following website:http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/bahCalc.cfm
Being a Fort Cavazos area native and a military spouse, I understand the challengesof relocating. You can count on me to be there every step of the way to help findyour dream home! As your Realtor® my first priority is to make your home buyingexperience enjoyable, fun and stress free. I'm known for my extensive marketknowledge and unmatched devotion. I earn the respect of my clients by workingtirelessly on their behalf from anywhere in the world. My success is based almostexclusively on positive referrals as I strive to exceed all expectations. -Hanna Smelser, Licensed TX REALTOR ®https://hannasmelser.exprealty.com/C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 35
2Founded in the 1850s as the county seat for Bell County, Belton boasts a downtown historicdistrict, many fine Victorian-era homes and more than 160 historical markers in the city andsurrounding areas. The rolling plains and wooded hills provide the area with a touch ofserenity, while the two nearby lakes offer plenty of recreation opportunities. Fort Hood, 18miles west of Belton, also plays a vital role in the area’s economy. The city’s population isapproximately 20,900.Belton Lake, fed by the Leon River, is a fishermen and boaters’ haven, covering 12,300 acreswith 136 miles of shoreline. Miller Springs Nature Center is located along the Leon River inthe historic Tennessee Valley. The nature center sits on 260 acres and is home to threecanyons that overlook the Belton spillway. The area is ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.(The center was closed in August 2017, but is slated to reopen sometime in 2018.) Belton ishome to a number of parks, museums, the Bell County Expo Center and the Patriot WayBrick Walk, which honors service members. Annual events include a summer music series,which hosts free concerts every Thursday night during the summer; the Bell County PRCARodeo; the state fair; Christmas on the Chisholm Trail; and more. For more information onBelton, visit the city’s chamber of commerce at www.beltonchamber.com or call 254-939-3551.Education: The Belton Independent School District includes one early childhood school, nine elementaryschools, three middle schools and two high schools. The district serves more than 11,500students. Belton ISD and all of its campuses received the state’s highest rating in 2016-2017based on student performance on the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness. Formore information on the district, visit www.bisd.net.Belton offers a wealth of higher educationopportunities, including the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, the oldest continuouslyoperating institution of higher learning in Texas.C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3*town information provided by home.army.mil website*6LIVING IN BELTON
2·Copperas Cove, a city with a proud heritage and bright future, is dedicated to improvingthe quality of life for its nearly 33,000 citizens.·Recreation is bountiful in Copperas Cove. City parks feature meandering creeks runningthrough the tree-shaded grounds, picnic areas, swimming pools, tennis courts and plentyof room for baseball games, soccer and enjoying a lazy afternoon.·The community comes together for a number of annual events. Rabbit Fest, which hasdelighted crowds for more than 35 years, takes place in May. The event boasts a parade, carshow, carnival, petting zoo and live entertainment. In December, residents and visitors canenjoy food, arts and crafts, a parade and entertainment at the Krist Kindl Markt. For moreinformation about Copperas Cove, visit the city’s chamber of commerce and visitors bureauat www.copperascove.com or call 254-547-7571.Education:Copperas Cove Independent School District includes seven elementary schools, two juniorhigh schools and two high schools, one of which is an alternative school of choice. The districtserves more than 8,200 students. Military students make up approximately 35 percent of thestudent population. Local support and interest in the young people and the school systemhave been determining factors in promoting the high achievement levels obtained bystudents on state and national standardized tests. The many awards, trophies and certificatesreceived by students and faculty alike demonstrate the professionalism, ability and caring ofthe entire school system. For more information on the school district, visit www.ccisd.com.Those seeking out higher education may attend a number of nearby colleges and universities,including Central Texas College in nearby Killeen.C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3*town information provided by home.army.mil website*7LIVING IN COPPERAS COVE
2Harker Heights is in the middle of where you want to be. The city is on U.S. Highway 190and less than 10 miles southeast of Fort Cavazos and 10 miles west of Interstate 35, whichconnects Dallas, Austin and San Antonio. The city provides an excellent quality of life to itsnearly 30,000 residents and its businesses.The city is home to parks, a community garden and Stillhouse Hollow Lake, which offersfishing, hiking, camping and swimming opportunities. Annual events include Paws in thePark in April, which features pet contests, an agility course and pet adoptions; Pooch PoolPAW-TY in August; the Food, Wine & Brew Festival in September; and Frost Fest inDecember.For more information on Harker Heights, visit the city’s chamber of commerce atwww.hhchamber.com or call 254-699-4999.Education:Harker Heights is part of the Killeen Independent School District. For more information onKilleen ISD, refer to the section on Killeen Education or visit www.killeenisd.org. C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3*town information provided by home.army.mil website*8LIVING IN HARKER HEIGHTS
2·Killeen, founded in 1882 by the Santa Fe Railroad, is located in one of the fastest-growingeconomic corridors in the U.S. It lies west of Harker Heights, just outside Fort Cavazos.Killeen has a population of approximately 143,400.·Killeen offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The city has an extensive parks andrecreation program, with an aquatics center, two pools, hiking and biking trails, StonetreeGolf Club, sports facilities and neighborhood parks. Other city attractions includecommunity theater performances at Vive Les Arts Theatre and Mayborn Science Theater,which features planetarium star shows and laser light shows. Annual events include theTake 190 West Arts Festival in March, Rodeo Killeen in May, Flavors of Central Texas andGeekfest in August, and the Hispanic Heritage Festival in September. For more informationon Killeen, visit the city’s chamber of commerce at www.killeenchamber.com or call 254-526-9551.Education:The Killeen Independent School District serves 44,000 students in Killeen, Harker Heights, FortCavazos and Nolanville. Nearly half the student population is composed of militarydependents. The district is among the 50 largest districts in Texas and continues to grow. Itseducational network covers 32 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, four high schools, anearly college high school, two alternative schools, the KISD Career Center and severalspecialized campuses. For more information about the district, visit www.killeenisd.org.Continuing education opportunities include Central Texas College, Texas A&M UniversityCentral Texas and the CyberTex Institute of Technology.C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3*town information provided by home.army.mil website*9LIVING IN KILLEEN
2·Rich in history and charm, the village of Salado was founded at the Old Military Roadcrossing of Salado Creek in 1859 at the same time as the founding of Salado College. Today,the village of Salado is blessed with numerous art galleries, antique stores and other shopsthat are in keeping with the culture and traditions of the village. Salado is south of Beltonon Interstate 35. The village has more than 2,000 residents.·Salado residents enjoy a number of recreational opportunities. Anyone interested in thehistory of the area can visit the Central Texas Area Museum. Other attractions include MudPies Pottery, which produces stoneware pottery in its on-site studio, the Salado SculptureGarden and Tablerock Amphitheater. Annual events include Wildflower Weekend’s Arts &Crafts Festival and Pub Crawl in March, June’s Texas History Days in Salado, the Salado Swirlwine trail in July, Chocolate & Wine Weekend in September, Christmas in October, theScottish Gathering and Highland Games in November and Christmas Stroll in December.For more information on Salado, visit its chamber of commerce at www.salado.com or call254-947-5040.Education:Salado Independent School District, with its student population of approximately 1,700,provides a small school setting with exemplary academic and athletic programs. Salado ISD isthe recipient of numerous awards and accolades and was ranked in the top 5 percent of highschools in the nation by Newsweek. The district serves its students with an elementary school,intermediate school, junior high school and high school. For more information on the district,visit www.saladoisd.orgC A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3*town information provided by home.army.mil website*10LIVING IN SALADO
2·Temple, the second-largest city in Bell County, lies along Interstate 35 about 30 minutesfrom Fort Cavazos. The population is approximately 73,600.·Outdoor recreational opportunities abound, with athletic programs, a skate park, two discgolf courses, an 18-hole golf course, a community garden, walking trails and dozens ofparks. There are also plenty of ways to cool off with a water park, four neighborhood splashpads and four community pools. Other area attractions include the Friars Creek NaturePreserve at Green Oaks, the Railroad and Heritage Museum, the Cultural Activities Centerand the Temple Symphony Orchestra. Annual events include the Temple College JazzFestival, which is in March. The Bloomin’ Temple Festival, in May, features live countrymusic, a carnival, children’s activities and food vendors. Also in May, the Central TexasAirshow wows crowds with both static and aerobatic displays, as well as a stunningfireworks show. For more information on Temple, visit the city’s chamber of commerce atwww.templetx.org or call 254-773-2105.Education:The Temple Independent School District serves 8,600 students with nine elementary and earlychildhood schools, three middle schools, two high schools and one alternative educationcenter. The district has produced 200 National Merit Scholar Award winners and consistentlyexceeds state and national SAT scores. Visit www.tisd.org for more information about thedistrict. Higher education opportunities include Temple College and Central Texas BeautyCollege.C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3*town information provided by home.army.mil website*11LIVING IN TEMPLE
12All of your BAH will automatically go to on post housing. You will not receive BAH in yourbank account anymore. Utilities are automatically covered Get on the housing waitlist as soon as possible. You need official orders to do so. You will not be made active on the housing list until you are signed out of current station. Pros: -Easy travel between PT and lunch to come home -Easy access to commissary for groceries -Food trucks, restaurants, gyms, and activities within walking distance on post FYI: All on post housing neighborhoods have fences already installed. Current wait times for all onpost neighborhoods are 1-3 months (Per the leasing office 12/1/2021).C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3LIVING ON-POSTCavalry Family HousingAddress: 18010 T J Mills Blvd Ste B209 Fort Cavazos, TX 76544Phone: (254) 220-4799Official Website: https://www.cavalryfh.com/
YOU WILL NOT BE ACTIVE ON THE HOUSING WAITLIST UNTIL YOU SIGN OUT OF YOURCURRENT DUTY STATION/AIT STATION/SCHOOL STATION. However, send paperwork in as soon as you get official orders to be higher on the waitlist. Go to https://www.cavalryfh.com/ and see which housing you qualify for and the currentwaitlist. Typically, the nicer the housing, the longer the waitlist. Submit your applicationonline via this website. 1.Go to the Facebook page “Fort Cavazos On & Off Post Housing” and click on “albums” toview pictures. If you click on the files tab you will see this PCS handbook as well as otherreference housing sheets with other helpful information. 2.Now that you have an idea what you like, call housing and tell them which waitlist youwant. You choose only 1 waitlist or tell them first available if you’re not picky. 3.You can email, fax, or walk in your requested paperwork. The paperwork you need will becopy of driver’s licenses, DD1172 form (which you can get from closest DEERS office) andyour official orders. 4.YOU ARE NOW SIGNED OUT OF YOUR CURRENT DUTY STATION/AIT/SCHOOL... Givehousing your DA31 form. Your previous station should provide you with your DA31 form. 5.13C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3APPLY FOR ON-POST HOUSING**Helpful hint: This is the time to make sure you get your pets proof of rabies, vaccines, andmicrochip ID#. You will need to provide microchip info on the lease you sign and you willneed to show this paperwork to the on post Veterinarian within 10 days of moving on post.** Community AmenitiesENERGY STAR® Partner Seasonal Front + Side Lawn CareLawn and Garden CenterTrash and Recycling Pick-upClubhouseCommunity PlaygroundsOn-site MaintenanceFree Fitness CentersBasketball Court(s)Swimming PoolHome AmenitiesCertain floor plans may have different amenitiesRefrigeratorDishwasherWD HookupCable/satelliteAir ConditionerFenced YardAdditional StorageCar PortGaragesFireplaceSplash ParksBike and Walking TrailsGreat Rooms with TVsInternet CafesSelect Gated CommunitiesFree Resident Events Little Free LibrariesBoundless PlaygroundsLemonade Day Participation
14C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3ON-POST HOUSING MAP
15C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3I JUST ARRIVED ON POST... NOW WHAT?Note that your Soldier might continue to in-process with their unit and mightnot be available to help you with all that is needed to settle in. Requirements: Soldier has to attend the newcomer orientation. This free event takes place everyThursday; the doors open at 8:45 a.m., with the event beginning at 9 a.m. at theLone Star Conference Center, Building 5764- boxed lunch and childcare provided! As you arrive to Fort Cavazos, all Soldiers will in-process the Installation ReceptionCenter located at Building 16008, 42nd Street, Fort Cavazos, Texas, 76544. TheReception Center operates 24/7 daily. For new arrivals to reach the ReceptionProcess Control Station, please enter post through the Bernie Beck Gate and followT.J. Mills Blvd until you reach Old Ironsides Ave. Turn right on Old Ironsides Ave andthen turn right again on 42nd Street. Reception is located on the right. Parking ison the left. Register pets at the on post veterinarian clinic within 10 days of arrival if living onpost To Do List: Go to finance and submit the paperwork that you have arrived. They will ask youspecifics of how many days of travel. Once you complete paperwork you have toemail it to the email they provide. Then, it takes approximately 3 days – 6 weeks tobe reimbursed and to be given DLA (moving allowance). Alert your movers because they might have your HHG (household goods) butmight be waiting on you to call to coordinate the date of delivery. Call Tricare and have them change your PCM (Primary Care Manager).Go to the loan closet. Items like mattresses and kitchenware are loaned out for 30days, with extensions granted as needed. You will need a copy of your orders andID card. Fort Cavazos Lending Closet: Phone: (254) 287-4227 | Hours: Mon-Fri 1000-1800 and Sat 0900-1400 Website: https://hood.armymwr.com Address: Clear Creek Road Bldg. 4930Take hand carried documents to enroll your child in their new school. If you want to claim Texas as your home state I believe you will have to updateyour license and registration for your vehicle within 30 days. Don’t worry, you canclaim your original state by calling and informing your carrier that you are in themilitary.
16C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3TEMPORARY LODGINGTemporary Lodging (when housing is not yet available)ON POST OPTIONS: 1. Candlewood Suites Address: 144 761st Tank Battalion Ave, Fort Cavazos, TX 76544 | PH: (254) 532-8233 2. Holiday Inn Express Keith Ware Hall Address: Hall 36006 Wratten Drive Fort Cavazos, Texas 76544 | PH: (254) 532-8233Always ask for a military discount and extended say rates!IHG hotels: (on post hotels) You can always cancel or modify your reservation as long asit is 24 hours before check in. Book IHG hotels early! Website: https://www.ihg.com/hotels/us/en/reservationOFF POST OPTIONS: 1. Shilo Inn Hotel (extra fee for pets) Address: 3701 South W S Young Drive, Killeen, TX 76542 | PH: (254) 699-0999 2. Hill Country Inn and Suites (extra fee for pets) Address: 302 W, US-190 BUS, Copperas Cove, TX 76522 | PH: (254) 547-2345 3. The Fort Cavazos is a great resource for other temporary lodging options! AHRN.comAirbnb.com
17C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3BAH RATES
Active duty Service Members (sponsors) must be enrolled in a TRICARE Prime plan anddo not have any enrollment fees, out-of-pocket costs, network copayments or point ofservice fees. However, dependents of Active Duty service members have 2 insuranceoptions: 1) Tricare Prime (on post) 2) Tricare Select (off post) -Sponsors who enlisted before Jan. 1, 2018 are known as Group A -Sponsors enlisted after Jan 1, 2018 are known as Group B 18C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3TRICAREhttps://www.tricare.mil/Plans/PlanFinder
So now you know your options and the associated costs. Whether you choose TricarePrime or Select, you will need to contact Tricare 1-800-844-5445. Tell them you havemoved and need a new PCM (Primary Care Manager). Visit the website at Tricare-east.com. MHS Nurse Advice Line for Tricare Prime and Tricare Select Available 24/7 Web or video chat with a nurse: MHSNurseAdviceLine.com United States phone number: 1-800-TRICARE (874-2273), option 1 If you’re outside the United States, visit MHSNurseAdviceLine.com to find country-specific numbers 19C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3Pros:Off postMore doctor options Cons:Copays and deductibles Tricare Select:Tricare Prime:Pros:On post Essentially free care Cons:Trying to get an appointment
20C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3
21C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3DENTAL/ VISIONWEBSITE FOR DENTAL: https://www.uccitdp.com/VISION: Dependents of Active Duty MembersNormally, dependents using Tricare Prime can get an eye exam every two years at a Military TreatmentFacility or authorized location. Glasses are only available if certain serious medical conditions exist. Thoseusing Tricare Select aren't eligible for any vision benefits unless they are related to other serious healthissues.Dependents who sign up and pay for the FEDVIP vision insurance program can normally get an eye examand free or discounted glasses or contact lenses every year depending on what vision plan they choose.
*Disclaimer: Keep receipts for everything! However, most people are only asked to provide receipts for hotel stays*What if I can’t afford this move? Military and Travel Pay Advances – Service members submit requests for advances (AdvancePay, Advance Travel, PPM to the Finance Office during the 30 day briefing. Service Memberscan only request one month advance pay on departure from the installation unless the PCSorders stipulate otherwise. Service Members E-4 and below must have Commanders signatureto request an advance pay. Finance will review the request to ensure the requestedentitlements are authorized. Normally payments will be made approximately 10 days prior tothe Service Members departure date from the installation or the soldier will be given agovernment credit card. *If you still cannot afford your move, look into an AER loan http://www.aerhq.org/ | PH: (254) 288-2862 or (254) 288-6330. Reimbursement: You will be asked to provide proof of receipts if you are claiming more than $75 in tolls. You need to provide hotel receipts. Per diem is broken down into three categories: Meals, lodging and incidental expense.They will reimburse up to $200 a day for 10 days for hotel stay known as TLE. $0.22 reimbursement per mile when driving (distance depending).$157 per day of travel when driving by vehicle (distance depending).FYI: The Army will not pay to ship a vehicle within the U.S. The Army will pay to ship 1 vehicleoverseas. It is approximately $1,300 to ship a vehicle depending on distance and the size ofvehicle. I paid $1,150 ($200 upfront and the rest upon vehicle arrival) from JBLM,WA to FortCavazos, TX and used Easy Auto Ship: Resource: The amount of DLA moving allowance you are eligible for can be found here:http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/Docs/perdiem/browse/Allowances/Dislocation_Allowance -For further questions in regard to reimbursement please visit website:www.defensetravel.dod.mil 22C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3FINANCES
First Heroes National Bank offers the following FREE services: financial literacy classes,budget counseling and credit counseling. 254.532.1193Financial Literacy Programs through First Heroes National Bank helps with understandingcredit scores, reducing credit card payments, credit building, deployment briefings,budgeting, retirements planning, car buying assistance and more. 254.258.9059FREE Lunch & Learn Financial Literacy. 254.532.1154Financial Readiness Program is your resource for information on money matters. FRP canhelp you better understand financial topics like: military pay, checkbook/debit cardmanagements, financial responsibility, credit reporting, debt elimination strategies, saving,investing, and budgeting.The Financial Readiness Program offers many services to Fort Cavazos Soldiers, retirees,family members and DA civilians. 915.569.8376The Command Financial Specialist Program is designed to provide commanders amechanism through which financial education, training, counseling, and referralprocedures are established in their units to promote sound financial practices, personalintegrity, and financial responsibility. The objective is to enhance and maintain missionreadiness and quality of life by providing Soldiers and their Family members a ready-madeprogram to help achieve personal financial readiness and deployability through the use ofsound money management and consumer skills. Army Community Service (ACS) Financial Readiness 254.553.310123C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3FREE FINANCIAL RESOURCES
24C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
25C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3
26C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3SCHOOL ZONESSEARCH SCHOOL ZONE:https://www.killeenisd.org/attendance_zones
27C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3MILITARY PAY CALENDAR
28C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3FORT CAVAZOS MAP
29FORT CAVAZOS TRAINING SCHEDULEC A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3
30C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3 FORT CAVAZOS TRANSPORTATION
31C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3 FORT CAVAZOS TRANSPORTATION
FRG:FRG stands for "Family Readiness Group," and the purpose of the group is to keep youinformed and supported during your spouse's time with a unit, especially during that unit'sdeployment. Military life can spawn more questions than you have the answers to, and that'swhy your FRG exists. While the details vary between units, the mission is the same. The FRG isall about helping you navigate military life in your spouse's particular unit. A great FRG will getin touch with you, but because many are staffed by volunteer spouses balancing the samefamily and military stressors as you, you may find that you don't get contacted as quickly asyou would like. If that happens to you, take the initiative to reach out and get connected! USO Coffee Connections:If you have arrived to Fort Cavazos in the last 6 months then this Coffee Connections isespecially for you! Register for this event and write the date in your calendar! Treats anddelicious coffee will be provided while discussing life at Fort Cavazos and all the things thatthe area has to offer. Come alone or bring a fellow military spouse friend (male or female) buteither way come ready to get to know other military spouses and make lasting connections!www.facebook.com/USOFortHood Facebook: I run the “Fort Cavazos Ladies Meetup” group on Facebook. Head over to the next page to learnmore about this fabulous group!32C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3MAKING FRIENDS
Facebook Groups: Be sure to join Fort Cavazos Ladies Meetup group on Facebook! Events range from kiddoplay dates and coffee socials to movie dates, dinner, and even overnight trips! Don’t seesomething that interests you? YOU CAN CREATE YOUR OWN EVENT and invites will be sentout for you! This group is a great way to connect with other military affiliated ladies in the area.We have active duty service members, spouses and local ladies attend our events!www.facebook.com/groups/226081758129645 33C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3MAKING FRIENDS
Fort Cavazos TAP (Transition Assistance Program) can be reached at 254-288-2227, 254-288-5627 or 254-553-6363 and is located on the third floor of the Copeland center, BLDG18010. The center features a computer lab with 25 computers, job postings, counselorresume assistance and reference materials. They are open 8am-5pm Monday-Friday andThursdays from 8am-3:30pm. The center is open during lunch.Become a Family Child Care (FCC) provider on Fort Cavazos with free career training. Toapply pick up an application at the FCC office Darnall, Loop, 1st Floor, left corridor- room 101BLDG 36000. Phone number: 254-553-4620 https://militarybenefits.info/become-family-child-care-provider/ Civilian Personnel Advisory Center (CPAC): Location: 4820 Washington Street Hours of operation: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed to walk-in customers on Wednesdays from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.Individuals interested in Civil Service Appropriated Fund (GS) employment should visitwww.USAJOBS.gov/ for a listing of open positions and detailed applicant instructions. Youmay narrow your search to Texas and enter Fort Cavazos as the installation. For additionalassistance please call (254) 288-2002.Hiring our Heroes: Currently offers 4 programs at Fort Cavazoshttps://www.hiringourheroes.org/locations/fort-hood/ https://www.facebook.com/HiringOurHeroes www.dol.gov/veterans http://indeed.com http://usajobs.gov Fort Cavazos Housing Group on Facebook has a post titled “jobs” that you can search forwith local listings. Feel free to add to it if you see something!Don't forget to join other local groups advertising job listings on Facebook!34C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3FINDING A JOBFort Cavazos Job Search
Stress / Anger / Conflict Workshop: 8-hour workshop designed to assist participants torecognize the symptoms, causes, and effects of stress and introduce an array of stressmanagement techniques. The workshop focuses upon anger management / conflictresolution strategies and techniques. Workshops are conducted the 2nd and 4th Thursdayof each month, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Oveta Culp Hobby Soldier and Family Readiness Center,Building 18000. Workshops are also available to units upon request. No cost child care isavailable upon request. +1 (254)618-7827, +1 (254)206-9856 or +1 (254)288-2092Relationship Enrichment Program (REP): Designed to equip couples with information,resources, strategies, and skills to identify problematic marital stressors, recognize dangersigns, improve communication, manage anger and utilize effective conflict resolutiontechniques that will promote the building and maintenance of healthy relationships.Workshops are conducted the 2nd Wednesday of each month, Oveta Culp Hobby Soldierand Family Readiness Center, quarterly off-post retreats, and specialty classes. Child care isavailable at no cost upon request. +1 (254)618-7584 or +1 (254)288-2092.The U.S. Army Family Advocacy Program (FAP) helps Soldiers and their Familiesrecognize and prepare for the unique challenges of military lifestyles. Our services includeseminars, workshops, counseling, and intervention to help strengthen the relationships ofArmy Families. We are also dedicated to the prevention domestic abuse, child abuse, andneglect of Soldiers and their Families through offering education, prompt reporting,investigation, intervention, and treatment. If you need help, please call the NationalDomestic Violence Hotline at +1 (800)799-7233. You should also contact your installation’sFamily Advocacy Program for more information.Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC) The Military and Family Life CounselingProgram supports service members, their families and survivors with non-medicalcounseling worldwide. Trained to work with the military community, military and family lifecounselors deliver valuable face-to-face counseling services, briefings and presentations tothe military community both on and off the installation. (254) 466-4053.Single Soldier Parent Network develops communication and assistance for single Soldierparents through networking, information sharing, and mutual support. Group meetsavailable upon request. All Fort Cavazos Single Parent Soldiers are welcome. +1 (254)287-6505 or +1 (254)288-209235C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3COUNSELING/ SUPPORTFort Cavazos Counseling/Support
Military One-Source non-medical counseling: Sometimes the care of friends and familyisn’t enough to pull you through a difficult stretch. Military OneSource is committed topromoting readiness and resilience in military members and families. Confidential non-medical counseling provides service members and their loved ones with resources andsupport to address a variety of issues and build important skills to tackle life’s challenges.Sessions are available through the Military and Family Life Counseling Program atinstallations worldwide and through Military OneSource. Learn more about who we serveand eligibility requirements or call Military OneSource 800-342-9647 to speak with aconsultant 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from anywhere in the world.OCONUS/International? Click here for calling options.New Parent Support Program (NPSP) Ages 3 and under Provides in-home visitation,therapeutic support, information / referral, and resource assistance to Army families. NPSPattempts to reduce the likelihood of child abuse, neglect and spouse abuse throughcommunity education and the promotion of healthy family functioning. Parent training,New Parent Support Group and Explore, Learn and Play (interactive playgroup) activities areoffered. Come by or give us a call, Shoemaker Center, Bldg 36000, 2nd Floor +1 (254)287-2286·Common Sense Parenting Ages 4-12. The forum is comprised of a weekly parentingeducation program and support group designed to introduce parenting styles;identify/address military parenting issues, challenges, and stressors that impactrelationships, understand family dynamics; develop/enhance parenting skills, discuss childmanagement techniques, and explore child development issues. Workshops are conducted2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month 9:30 -11:30 a.m at Ovetta Culp Hobby. +1 (254)618-7443Active Parenting / Teen Challenge Ages 13-18. Parents will gain knowledge, skills, andinsight to guide teens through the turbulent periods associated with adolescence. Teens willbecome aware of information, resources, and skills to assist in effectively managing thechanges and challenges of adolescence. Classes available upon request. +1 (254)287-6505 or+1 (254)288-209236C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3
37C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3HANNA’S LOCAL BUCKET LISTKILLEEN:Wing Bar- PluckersBurgers- Cassidy’s GrillSoul- Bobby B’SVietnamese- Pho 9Jamaican: Jamaica NyammingzTEMPLE/BELTON:Tacos- Los Compadres Indian- Bombay BistroBreakfast- Water StreetThai: Narunya'sSummer Moon CoffeeBold Republic BreweryHARKER HEIGHTS:Venezuelan- ArepitasPizza- Pierino's Pasta & Pizza To GoBreakfast- Papa’s CafeCafe- Juicy Joy Deli Coffee- Cup of Joe & Black Rifle CoffeeMediterranean- AcropolisCOVE/KEMPNER/LAMPASASGerman- Kempner Brick OvenSomething in BetweenItalian- GiovannisBurgers- Storm's Drive-inAlamo Coffee CompanyFt. Cavazos ATV ParkTopsey Exotic RanchThe Great EscapeLive Oak Ridge ParkChalk Ridge FallsLions Club ParkCarl Levin ParkBlora PaintballThe Last Drive-In West Temple ParkBelton LakeDana Peak ParkDowntown SaladoVeve Les ArtsBloulders Climbing CenterSummer Fun WaterparkBell County EXPO EventsSpare Time Fun Center1st Cavalry Division MuseumStonetree Golf ClubPurser Family ParkCamp Caylor wine&beer yardThe Beltonian TheatreXtreme Jump Adventure ParkStillhouse Hollow LakeBlackbird Books + SpiritsLOCAL THINGSLOCAL FOOD
38C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3HANNA’S TEXAS BUCKET LIST1SAN ANTONIO (2.5hrs):Riverwalk + Pearl DistrictSeaWorld + Six FlagsBotanical GardenMarket Square THINGS TO DO:Magnolia MarketCameron Park ZooHomestead HeritageDr Pepper Museum Spice VillageHawaiian Falls THINGS TO DO:The DomainLady Bird LakeCity Tours + Boat RentalsHEB Center EventsRound Rock Express Baseball GamesQ2 Stadium Soccer GamesEvents at the Moody CenterWACODALLAS (2.5hrs):Stockyards (FortWorth)NFL/NBA/NHL/MLB Galleria shoppingHOUSTON (3hr):NASA Space CenterChildren's MuseumHouston RodeoNFL/NBA/MLBThe GalleriaFREDERICKSBURG 2HRSWIMBERLEY 2HRSGALVESTON 4HRSCORPUS CHRISTI 4HRSORT ARANSAS 5HRSPADRE ISLAND 6.5HRSFURTHER AWAY1AUSTIN FOOD:Salt GrassMagnolia TableThe Brazos LandingClay PotOne Thirty Five PrimeBrazos Bar + BistroHeritage Cafe FOOD:Matt’s El RanchoUchiNorth ItaliaRed AshTerry Black’s BBQAba AustinNot a Damn Chance
THANK YOU for taking time to read through myPCS guide. I truly hope it brought you value andthat it eases some stress for your transition to FortCavazos. If you have any questions you can email,call or text me anytime! If you're interested inchoosing me as your Realtor to assist you in thehome buying process, I'm happy to send you myhome buyer's guide that includes a list of trustedvendors (lenders, inspectors, handy people, etc.)in the area. WELCOME to Fort Cavazos, Texas andI look forward to hearing from you!Hanna Smelser, Licensed TX REALTOR Fort Cavazos Housing Group, eXp Realty254.702.2883 | CavazosHousing@gmail.com39C A V A Z O S H O U S I N G @ G M A I L . C O M | 2 5 4 . 7 0 2 . 2 8 8 3CONCLUSION