Airman can store their POVs while deployed Published March 16, 2011 By Scott King FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash -- Airmen who have contingency orders for a 90-plus day deployment can seek their squadron commander's approval to store up to one personally owned vehicle at government expense. Airmen who get approval have two options for storage. Either they can have their vehicle stored at the Vehicle Processing Center in Seattle or they can procure their own contracted storage locally up to the government cost, upon their return. "This is a great option especially for single Airman that maybe live in the dormitories or in an apartment complex outside the base's gates, but it's available to anyone deploying," said Mrs. Denise Olds, 92nd Logistics Readiness Squadron Transportation management Office officer. "Our Airmen can deploy with the peace of mind that their vehicle will be secure." Once the member gets the letter of approval signed by their commander and finance has signed off with a fund citation, they then provide the signed letter to the personnel readiness unit and then contact the TMO for instructions on their options. "Both storage options have their advantages," Mrs. Olds said. "If they use the center in Seattle, the employees there are mandated to start the stored cars at least once per-month to avoid dying batteries, and they rotate the vehicles around a little to avoid flat spots and deflation of the tires. If they choose to procure their own storage locally, usually it's cheaper thus saving the government some money." This program is not squadron-funded, currently, funding is provided through the 92nd ARW's Overseas Contingency Operations fund, which is not bottomless. "Commanders should be prudent and consider all the member's factors before approving requests," she said. "They should ensure that approval for storage of POVs is most beneficial to the member and the Air Force - after all, money doesn't grow on trees." Another beneficial aspect of this program is that unattended vehicles will not be left outside the base's dormitories just to sit there with dead batteries, leaking parts and flat tires - thus improving base appearance. "I absolutely think our folks should take advantage of this while they can," Mrs. Olds said. "It's a win-win situation for the Airman and Fairchild - their vehicles will be protected and the dormitory area will look a little better."