June 13, 2008
BZ: I would like to personally thank everyone involved with assembling such a wonderful and efficient USS George Washington (GW) Family Assistance Support Team (FAST) to help families as they arrive here in Japan. My husband is currently stationed onboard the GW en route to Yokosuka. My husband and I found out early that I would be moving to Japan while he is deployed at sea. The very thought of traveling by myself frightened me as this would be the first time I have ever done a military move and overseas as well! My husband did everything he could to make the transition easy but unfortunately he is just as new to this as me. Overwhelmed, jet-lagged and extremely scared, I was met on arrival by my sponsor, Lt. Aranda and Jeanie Kim. Everyone was so friendly and assured me that they would help me get through this transition. Throughout the following week FAST led by Aranda and Chief Quinto became a second family. They were so helpful-from driving me all the way to Ikego to get a post office box to going through the check-in process with me step by step. I was offered everything from rides to someone to talk with when I needed a friendly ear. I am most thankful for the household necessities lent to us until ours arrives. Aranda explained that they had acquired several things such as linens, dishes, bath items and kitchen items for me to borrow. Because my own items took much longer to arrive than expected I am ever so grateful. This helped save money from having to buy those items again and then have twice as much when my shipment arrived a few weeks later. Even today, FAST continues to surprise me with their help. After living here in Japan for almost a month, they check to make sure I have everything I need. It is always hard moving when your spouse is stationed somewhere new but that is a part of military life; it is rare when a ship takes as much time and effort as the GW did to make that move and transition as easy as possible. I am proud to have a husband serving our country and he is proud to be on a ship that not only strives for excellence in protecting our country but in protecting its families as well. Thank you again, George Washington, for making my move as stress-free as possible!