From Hawaii to El Paso to South Korea: My PCS Journey as a Behavioral Health Officer
Change is constant in the Army, but nothing quite encapsulates that truth like a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). For me, the journey from Hawaii to Fort Bliss, and eventually South Korea, was a whirlwind of competition, preparation, and excitement. As a new BHO, I knew this PCS would be an opportunity to challenge myself and grow in ways I had long hoped for.
Competing for the Assignment
Before the move began, I learned about an upcoming opportunity to join an Armor Unit.. Assignments like this are competitive, and I had to throw my name in the hat alongside many talented peers. After much anticipation, I was thrilled to be selected. The chance to support Soldiers in a forward environment, expand my clinical expertise, and deploy was exactly what I wanted. I was determined to make the most of it.
Saying Aloha to Hawaii
Leaving Hawaii was bittersweet. The process of shipping my personally owned vehicle (POV) and household goods (HHG) was daunting but straightforward. Each box packed reminded me of the memories made on the island, and while I was sad to say goodbye, I was eager to embrace this new chapter.
The Army’s PCS process is never simple, and mine was no exception. I planned a stop in Utah to visit my family before heading to Fort Bliss. It was a chance to reconnect, reset, and say my goodbyes before diving into the chaos of a new assignment.
Saying Hola to El Paso
Arriving at El Paso was an adjustment after living in Hawaii, but it didn’t take long to appreciate the unique charm of this area. Nestled near the U.S.-Mexico border, the area is rich in culture, history, and a sense of community that I wasn’t expecting but immediately loved.
One of the first things that struck me was the food. El Paso’s cuisine is a vibrant mix of Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican flavors, with every meal feeling like a celebration. From street tacos to tamales and enchiladas smothered in red or green chile, it’s hard not to be captivated by the culinary scene. Even the coffee shops and bakeries have a special charm, blending local traditions with modern twists.
The people in El Paso are equally as memorable as the food. I was struck by how friendly and welcoming everyone was—from strangers offering directions to the hospitality of neighbors and coworkers. The community has a warmth that makes even new arrivals feel like they belong.
Of course, I quickly learned about the extremes of the desert climate. The summer heat is no joke; stepping outside feels like walking into an oven, and hydration became a personal mission. Monsoon season, however, brought a surprising change to the arid landscape. Watching sudden downpours flood the streets and bring life to the desert was an experience I’ll never forget. The balance of blazing heat and sporadic rainstorms is a defining feature of life here.
Despite the heat, I found myself drawn to the stark beauty of the region. The desert landscape, with its sprawling views and rugged mountains, is breathtaking in its own right. Fort Bliss’s proximity to the border adds another layer of intrigue, with the cultural exchange creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.
El Paso and Fort Bliss have made an indelible first impression on me. They’re places of vision, culture, and connection, and I’ve come to appreciate the unique lifestyle they offer. While this stop was brief before my deployment to South Korea, it left me with memories and experiences that I’ll carry with me wherever the Army takes me next.
Rerouted to 3/1 AD
Originally, I was assigned to 1st Sustainment Brigade at Fort Bliss. However, upon arrival, my orders changed. I was rerouted to 3/1 Armored Division, tasked with supporting a unit on rotation to South Korea. The sudden shift was unexpected but energizing. Supporting a deployed unit is what I had been hoping for, and now the opportunity was directly in front of me.
Finding My Temporary Home
Before leaving for South Korea, I had to establish a temporary home base at Fort Bliss. The lodging search was hectic, but I eventually found a place to settle in for a few short weeks. This period was a whirlwind of preparation: packing for the deployment, finalizing training requirements, and coordinating logistics. The PCS process had prepared me for transitions like this, and I leaned on those experiences to navigate the chaos.
A Birthday Departure
When my flight to South Korea finally arrived, it was more than just another travel day—it was my birthday. Boarding that plane felt symbolic, a new year of life aligned with a new professional chapter. I was full of excitement and anticipation, ready to provide behavioral health support in a forward environment and contribute to the mission in meaningful ways.
Looking Ahead
This PCS, while challenging at times, has been a rewarding journey. It reinforced my adaptability and commitment to supporting Soldiers wherever the mission takes me. From competing for the assignment to arriving in South Korea, every step has been an opportunity to grow personally and professionally.
As I settle into my role here, I’m reminded why I chose this career: to be there for others in their toughest moments, to embrace the unknown, and to thrive in the face of change. This journey has been all that and more, and I’m grateful for the chance to continue serving in a role that inspires me every day.
Next stop, Korea
Army Social Work 