STA-21-INTEL said:
They do need their working blues, LEATHER shoes, raincoat, and accessories. Keep in mind that they give you an allowance to buy all uniform items you'll need when you get here, but from what I'm being told by my friends on the other side of the building, it doesn't quite cover it all. I am trying to buy a couple articles here and there to defer the cost then finish it out when I get the allowance. I've also heard, though, that a few folks got burned by not bringing a full seabag (including utilities, etc) because they didn't think they'd need them. I'd just be safe and bring what he has but not buy anything new for enlisted uniforms.
I was there May-July 03, and we didn't even touch our enlisted uniforms once we got there. I brought the bare necessities, and didn't even need that. I reported in my dress whites (which isn't really necessary if you're checking in on a weekend), and that was it.
As for the uniform allowance, it
does cover everything on the
official uniform requirements list, even if you're starting with nothing, like I was. At least it did when I was there. I bought everything required by the list, and still made about $100. So don't sweat that. Someone else posted about the Star Card. Fantastic idea if you don't already have one. Just wait to get it until the end, when you're required to pay for everything (this is because you won't get some of your items, e.g. Chokers, tailored stuff, until close to the end).
Back tothe original question, though...
The necessities are
at least 2 complete sets of PT gear (incl. sweats). Go for the hooded sweatshirts--trust me. Tennis shoes, towels, underdrawers, t-shirts, socks, etc. This stuff is all common sense. As far as enlisted uniforms--I don't want to say your hubby doesn't need 'em, but like I said, WE never touched them. Someone else recommended bringing any enlisted items which will transfer--good idea. If you're not sure what will transfer, tell your hubby to ask an officer where he's at.
And civvies--as many as he thinks he'll need, but keep in mind that storage space is limited--two large drawers in his bunk, a small 3-drawer under-desk bureau, and a large stand-up locker (about the size of a large linen closet). And ALOT of this room will be occupied by the new uni's that he'll be buying.
HANDY ITEMS (though not required)--iron, small ironing board, pens, notebook paper, notebooks, starch, etc. If he doesn't have something he needs, or doesn't have room/doesn't want to pack it, there's a pretty decent NEX there. And although it's a long drive, I highly recommend he drives up there, seeing as how you're in Charleston. I didn't (I had already moved my family to AZ), and I HATED not having my own car. Still had a blast, though.
Tell him I said Good Luck!
