Patrol Forces Southwest Asia
PATFORSWA
Welcome Aboard
MISSION
The Mission of PATFORSWA is to supply fully mission capable assets and personnel ready to deploy throughout the US Central Command’s (CENTCOM) AOR in support of Combatant Commanders and National Security Objectives.
BENEFITS AND
ENTITLEMENTS:
http://www.uscg.mil/directives/cim/7000-7999/CIM_7220_29B.pdf
SAVINGS DEPOSIT
PROGRAM:
http://www.dfas.mil/militarypay/woundedwarriorpay/SDPBrochure_Mar08.pdf
AWARDS:
Restricted Duty Ribbon OR Overseas Ribbon
Iraqi Campaign Medal (only for members on a cutter and in Iraqi waters for
60 days or more)
Global War of Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
MAILING ADDRESS:
Commanding Officer
USCG PATFORSWA
ATTN: Member Name/Department
Unit 3950
FPO AE 09501
CELL PHONES:
Upon arrival, you will be provided one cell phone that is for official use
only. Cell phones are the primary means of communications in Bahrain, they
are also used to receive updated AT/FP text alerts
UNIFORM:
DCU’s
TYPICAL NON RATE
ASSIGNMENT:
FA/FN and SA/SN are assigned to both shore side and afloat positions. FA/FN
are assigned to the Engineering department and SA/SN assigned to the
Operations department.
AVERAGE
TEMPERATURE:
The summer months (May to
September) are extremely hot while the winter can be cold when compared to
the summer highs. The average temperature in the summer is 105F while
temperatures drop in the low 70s during winter months.
RATINGS PRESENT:
BM, DC, MK, EM, ET, FS, OS, YN, SK, IT, HS, GM
EDUCATION:
There is much opportunity for further education while deployed. The ESO
maintains an extensive library of learning materials and is an excellent
source of information on college credits and tuition assistance. There is
also a Navy College onboard NSA Bahrain where members may attend college
classes, and register for online programs.
REPORTING IN
Personnel assigned to PATFORSWA Cutters and ashore receive pre-deployment
training at Atlantic Area, Portsmouth, VA, where they will be informed of
procedures for reporting to theatre.
PRE-DEPLOYMENT
TRAINING:
Prior to arriving in Bahrain, you are required to successfully complete
Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) located in Portsmouth VA. You’re required to
complete your pre deployment requirements (overseas screening, physical
exam, weapons certification and security clearance package (if applicable))
as soon as practical and must forward that information to YNCM Linda Kentch
at
linda.s.kentch@uscg.mil or phone 757-295-2234.
HOUSEHOLD GOODS (HHG)
You are entitled to 500lbs of unaccompanied baggage shipment. Work directly
with your local transportation officer to ensure shipment of only those
items authorized for entry into theater.
NAVAL SUPPORT
ACTIVITY (NSA) BAHRAIN:
The local Navy base has an exchange, commissary, food court, workout
facilities, educational services, movie theater, bowling alley and swimming
pool.
RELIGION:
Islam is the state religion of Bahrain,
representing more than 80% of the population. The non-Muslims are almost
entirely non-citizens, and among immigrants, many are
Muslims.
Religious freedom is secured by the constitution, other faiths may worship
publicly and establish designated places of worship. There are Christian
services onboard NSA Bahrain. Churches and other religious places of worship
may also be found out in town.
HOUSING:
Personnel will be assigned to Government leased housing and in most
circumstances will have at least one or two room mates from either the shore
side support or local cutter force. All apartments are fully furnished to
include items such as bedding (sheets, blankets), towels, cookware, and
utensils but you are encourages to check with your sponsor regarding other
items. Internet access is available at your residence. Many of our crew
members have personal laptops for communicating with family stateside.
TRANSPORTATION:
Government leased vehicles are provided and shared among assigned personnel.
Driving in Bahrain is like driving in any large US city. You must ensure
your State license is current and that it will not expire during your
deployment.
MONEY:
The exchange rate is approximately $2.71 US to 1BD. US currency is the
primary currency on the base at NSA Bahrain and Kuwait Naval base. The
Bahrain Dinar is the primary currency off base in Bahrain. ATMs and currency
exchange are available on base.
BANKS:
There is a Navy Federal Credit Union on base.
COUNTRY INFO:
Manama is a very westernized city in the Middle East and you will find all
the amenities of any other big city, keeping in mind that we are in a
foreign country and in a Combat Zone. It is not uncommon for Force
Protection measures to be implemented with little notification.
For more information on Bahrain and things to do in the area, visit the NSA website www.nsa.bahrain.navy.mil
TRICARE
AVAILABLE:
NSA Medical
STANDARD/ PRIME /EXTRA
IS DELTA DENTAL
AVAILABLE :
NSA Dental
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