If there was a common theme Tuesday during Joint Base Lewis-McChord's (JBLM) command update on Facebook Live, it was don't listen to rumors, and if you aren't getting what you need, call the general's hotline number.
To dispel the most prevalent question, yes, according to Lt. Gen. Randy George, I Corps and JBLM commander, you may go off base provided you follow Washington state's rules on social distancing, and when done, you will be allowed to return to base -- no matter what anyone else tells you is true. This is also true for extended family members with a base pass.
In fact, George said several times, that anyone who is not receiving the correct information, or support from their command, is welcome to call his hotline at 253.967.3831.
George said Tuesday there are many unknowns, and that likely even when this crisis pasts, old programs and facilities won't spring to life instantaneously. He said the Stop Movement date is extended currently to May 11. Grooming requirements are currently on hold as well, as are many assignments for non-essential workers.
The base is also currently open to ID holders, as well as visitors, though George said visitors are required to follow social distancing rules, and that the base is studying if that is currently the case. He also said there is currently no plan to close the base to retirees and non-essential workers as the commander at Joint Base Langley-Eustis did this week. But again, George referenced social distancing rules are important.
Madigan's commander, Col. Thomas Bundt, told viewers that supplies to the hospital have been good, indicating the hospital has enough personal protective equipment to last nine to 11 days. Bundt said he expects to receive more and does not expect to run out of supplies.
Tuesday's live event gave attendees updates on many issues regarding the impacts of COVID-19, as well as reiterated that there are still many unknowns. The following are additional bullet points that came from the briefing:
- Six hundred homes being repaired on base will be ready by the end of May. Contact housing if you would prefer to live on base. In other news, homes in David Hill, Heartwood and New Hillside have started or will start renovations soon.
- Madigan said while wellness checks are currently postponed, that does not include immunizations children are supposed to receive. Call 800.408.4506 for an appointment.
And in other news this week ...
The Nine-gate plan went into effect Monday: Five of those gates will be open 24 hours. The remaining four gates will be open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week.
The following are the hours of operation of the nine gates starting March 30 until further notice:
- Liberty, open 24 hours
- Madigan, open 24 hours
- Lewis North, open 24 hours
- East Gate, open 24 hours
- McChord Field Main, open 24 hours
- DuPont, open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Logistics Center, open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Integrity, open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Barnes, open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The following gates will be closed until further notice:
- RCF, closed
- Transmission Line, closed
- D Street, closed
- Woodbrook, closed