Has anyone deployed as a D.A. Civilian, and what tips do you have?

2015-08-21T16:57:40-04:00

I have just been selected as a CEW D.A. Civilian for a TDY assignment. As I have just started the process, they don't know what job yet, but said most likely Afghanistan will be where I'll go. Looking for any insight or tips to get ready to deploy as a civilian versus when I deployed as a soldier

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Aug 21 at 2015 5:50 PM

2015-08-21T17:50:17-04:00

I had worked with deployed civilians overseas, and the one thing that I remember that they had the most problems with was their travel claims. Make sure you understand the process and what you can claim and keep receipts and copies of everything. I remember making several special trips to the embassy just to get stuff straight for the civilian translators that worked for me and my team.

Response by Greg Imes made Aug 24 at 2015 11:18 PM

2015-08-24T23:18:49-04:00

I assume you will arrive on standard charter to Kabul from Dubai....? Keep a low profile, no matter how hard that will be especially if you will be off base and amongst the locals, most locals will treat you with great respect but charge you 4 times more for products. I was in Kabul and Nimroz province for 3.5 years..... Some close calls but no issues.... Good luck, stay safe !!

Response by Sarah White made Oct 13 at 2015 6:47 PM

2015-10-13T18:47:24-04:00

I was deployed almost 9 yrs as a DA Civilian. I loved it. Let us know how it is going please. As for travel vouchers, do it yourself. The S1 shop wanted to use horrible copiers where it was all ruddy and crinkled and got questioned. Scan them neatly and do it yourself. If you can.

Response by Cheryl Skinner made Dec 26 at 2015 3:57 PM

2015-12-26T15:57:36-05:00

I deployed 3 times as a civilian, twice as a DA civilian, and once as CEW. I was in several different places in Afghanistan. Depending on the location, some items in the PX will not be available. Also, it gets very cold in the winter months, so depending on the structure that you will be working in, you may need heavier socks and winterized boots.

Response by Erin Connolly made Mar 24 at 2016 2:15 AM

2016-03-24T02:15:37-04:00

Deploying as a DoD civilian means that the income you make overseas is taxable as opposed to while you were active duty in a combat zone. Stay safe and thanks for serving.