CORONAVIRUS UPDATES (CONTINUED)

USAHC Vilseck Pharmacy offers Antigen Tests (Feb. 8, 2022)
U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck

USAHC Vilseck now has over-the-counter COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) at the Pharmacy. If you have COVID-19 symptoms and feel you do not need to be seen in our Acute Respiratory Clinic (ARC) or need a PCR test, you can go to the Pharmacy to receive a RAT.

Please note: 2 RATs come in 1 pack. Patients are only allowed 1 pack per month.

If your RAT results as positive, 5 days of isolation is required.
If documentation is needed (i.e. quarters slip, school note) either:

a) return to the clinic to be seen in the ARC. A PCR test will then be performed in order to have it documented on the medical record, or

b) go on the economy to be tested to then receive documentation of your positive result. Take this document to the clinic and go to Medical Records to have it uploaded on your medical record.

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USAHC Vilseck COVID-19 Vaccination Event (Feb. 3, 2022)
U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck

MEDDAC-Bavaria and U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck are hosting a walk-in COVID-19 Vaccination Event today, until 4 p.m.

If you are an eligible patient (12-years-old and up), please stop by the Rose Barracks Multi-Purpose Center (Bldg. 134). There are plenty of vaccines/boosters still available!

More information on the clinic's official website.

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USAG Bavaria COVID-19 Focused Town Hall (Feb. 1, 2022)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Commander Col. Christopher Danbeck , alongside professionals from our medical community, hosted this town hall to discuss best practices involving COVID-19 and updated on/off-post regulations. A recording of this livestream can be viewed on Facebook, here: https://www.facebook.com/USAGBavaria/videos/292816332843709/⚠

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German Federal Entry Requirements Update (Jan. 12, 2022)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Several key elements from last week’s German Federal Entry Requirements have been updated, including:

Transfer at an airport now counts as “entering” Germany for registration, testing, quarantine, etc.
When required, PCR tests need to be done 48 hours prior to entry OR beginning of carriage. Example: If you flight to Germany takes off at 1900 but lands at 2300, you can use 1900 when calculating your 48 hours. (Personal recommendation is that you give yourself some wriggle room for delayed flights).
Previously, when children under 12 came from a high-risk area, their quarantine would automatically end at 5 days. That provision now only applies to children under 6.
Previously, children over 12 had to show their 3G status when entering the country. That provision now applies to all children over 6.
Relatedly, if a child over 6 spent time in an area of variant concern in the last 10 days, that child will need a PCR test as well.
The ordinance is extended to 3 March 2022.

For links to resources in ensuring you understand COVID-19 host nation regulations in your communities, places you may wish to travel, and COVID-19 policies on our installations in Bavaria, go to www.7ATC.army.mil/COVID-19.

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Translation: New ordinance on infection protection measures (Jan. 11, 2022)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The following decisions were made by the Bavarian State Government to combat the Corona pandemic. These restrictions go into effect on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022.

Currently, the official translation is being worked by the Bavaria Legal Office. Once it is available, it will be posted to the 7th Army Training Command COVID-19 Portal: www.7ATC.army.mil/COVID-19.

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7ATC On-Post Mask Policy Update (Jan. 10, 2022)
7th Army Training Command

7th Army Training Command has issued a new revised mask policy that is available at www.7ATC.army.mil/COVID-19.

The infographic previously posted may be updated and reposted at a later date. No other changes were made to the Policy.

Check it out for more information on the general guidance on the differences between host nation and on-installation regulations for vaccinated and vaccinated personnel, while indoors and outside.

The U.S. Army in Bavaria is constantly assessing the risk to our Soldiers, Civilians and Families based on a variety of host-nation metrics, combined with a high rate of vaccination within our community.
Further guidance on the wearing masks on the installation will be issued if or when appropriate through command and official information channels.

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U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr: COVID Testing Update (Jan. 6, 2022)
U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr

As you have probably heard, there is an increasing number of COVID-19 cases both in our military community and in our host nation communities. To ensure access to care for our most at-risk populations, please follow the below guidance for COVID-19 testing, effective Jan. 7.

If you are symptomatic, report to your medical treatment facility’s acute respiratory clinic for testing.
If you have been identified as a close contact, you should quarantine in accordance with command guidance.
- During the quarantine period, you should report to your MTF at any point if you become symptomatic, regardless of vaccination status.
- If you are not vaccinated**, you should report to your MTF for testing on the 5th day of quarantine or the following business day if the 5th day falls on a weekend or holiday.

*** IAW CDC guidance vaccinated is defined as being at least 14 days after having received the primary series (two doses of an mRNA vaccine or one dose of Janssen), and a booster as applicable. 5-17 year olds are only required to have completed the primary series.

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Translation: New ordinance on infection protection measures (Dec. 22, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The following decisions were made by the Minister Presidents of the 16 federal states and Germany’s federal government to combat the Corona pandemic. These restrictions go into effect on Tuesday, Dec. 28.

Currently, the official translation is being worked by the Bavaria Legal Office. Once it is available, it will be posted to the 7th Army Training Command COVID-19 Portal: WWW.7ATC.ARMY.MIL/COVID-19.

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Translation: New ordinance on infection protection measures (Dec. 14, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The following decisions were made by the Bavarian State Government to combat the Corona pandemic. These restrictions go into effect on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022.

Currently, the official translation is being worked by the Bavaria Legal Office. Once it is available, it will be posted to the 7th Army Training Command COVID-19 Portal: WWW.7ATC.ARMY.MIL/COVID-19.

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2G Rules at AAFES Barber Shops (Dec. 8, 2021)
AAFES

EFFECTIVE 8 DEC 2021: New host nation ordinance 2G rules apply to retail stores that are not mission essential. Face masks are required.

The following concessionaires must comply with Host Nation Ordinance:
• KICKZ, Kaethe Wohlfahrt, Military Gear Center for civilians
• Specialty Shop, Wigs & More, Cell and Computer Repair, Military Gear Center for civilians
• TKS, Exchange Mobile Center and Alteration: only for Measuring Service

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SRO COVID-19 Posture Update (Dec. 7, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

#SaveTheDate: Our military treatment facilities are hosting upcoming #COVID19 vaccine/booster drives across USAG Bavaria. If you have any questions, please reach out to the MTF and/or MEDDAC-Bavaria.

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck is hosting a COVID-19 vaccine drive on Thursday, Dec. 9 AND Friday, Dec. 10. The 1st and 2nd dose will be offered to both children and adults. The booster dose will be offered to adults only. For full details, view the original post here: https://www.facebook.com/vilseckarmyhealthclinic/posts/1735688556639758⚠

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr is hosting a COVID-19 booster drive on Friday, Dec. 10. The booster dose will be offered to adults only. For full details, view the original post here: https://www.facebook.com/GrafClinic/posts/4868344209851212⚠

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Hohenfels is hosting a string of dates for the Pediatric Pfizer vaccine for children (ages 5-11). For full details, view the original post here: https://www.facebook.com/hohenfelshealthclinic/posts/3016029488670940⚠

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Translation: New ordinance on infection protection measures (Dec. 2, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The following decisions were made by the Bavarian State Government to combat the Corona pandemic. These restrictions go into effect on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022.

Currently, the official translation is being worked by the Bavaria Legal Office. Once it is available, it will be posted to the 7th Army Training Command COVID-19 Portal: WWW.7ATC.ARMY.MIL/COVID-19.

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DoDEA Athletics Competitions Canceled (Nov. 30, 2021)
Department of Defense Europe Activity

DoDEA-Europe families and staff,

In coordination with our military and public health partners, the decision has been made to cancel all DoDEA-Europe athletic competitions through the month of December. This decision is based on the recent sharp rise in COVID-19 numbers across the Region.

Discussions regarding the way forward for winter and spring athletics and student activity scheduling are on-going. We will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with our military and public health partners on this important topic and will provide updates as more information becomes available. All decisions will be made with the health of our students, staff, schools and communities as our top priority. Our intent is to provide as many athletic and extracurricular student activities as safely possible.

Information regarding DoDEA’s COVID Operations Guidelines and Protocols may be found at:
https://www.dodea.edu/covid-operations.cfm

I wish everyone a safe and joyous holiday season. Thank you for your continued support and efforts during this uniquely challenging time.

Sincerely,
CHARLES E. KELKER, Ed.D
Acting DoDEA-Europe Director

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Grafenwoehr Driver's Training/Testing Station (Nov. 30, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Grafenwoehr Driver's Training and Testing Station announces a change to this week’s operating hours, due to a COVID-19 related staff shortage. Contact tracing is underway for those that have visited the office on Friday (26 NOV 2021).

The office will be open on Tuesday, Nov. 30, and Friday, Dec. 3.
Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a lunch closure from 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Thank you for your cooperation.

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SRO COVID-19 Posture Update (Nov. 23, 2021)
7th Army Training Command

We are seeing case numbers rise drastically in the areas surrounding our communities and across Germany. While our Army community in Bavaria remains in a safe posture thanks to high vaccination rates and the personal protective measures taken by our Soldiers, Civilians and Families, the following force health protections measures will be implemented.

Effective 24 November at all U.S. Army installations in Bavaria, all patrons to AAFES and Commissary facilities will need to wear masks regardless of vaccination status. This will also apply to the in-processing centers as well.

Local National employees must also starting 24 November show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test at their place of work, consistent with host nation regulations.

Our medical professionals and Army Health Clinics are working to get booster shots available for all at risk and eligible. For the latest information on dates and times for COVID-19 vaccinations, to include children 5-11 years old and booster, check your Army Health Clinic website:

Grafenwoehr: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/grafenwoehr
Vilseck: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/vilseck
Hohenfels: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/hohenfels
Ansbach: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/ansbach

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2G Rules at AAFES Barber Shops (Nov. 23, 2021)
AAFES

EFFECTIVE 24 NOV 2021: New host nation ordinance 2G rules apply to the AAFES Barber Shops, Stylique Salons and Nail Salons. FFP2 Masks are requred in the facilities, too.

Thank you for your cooperation.

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Translation: New ordinance on infection protection measures (Nov. 19, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Bavarian Government met today and following are the new rules that will be effective on Wednesday, Nov. 24:

Contact restrictions for the unvaccinated: 5 people, 2 households, not counting kids under the age of 12 and vaccinated persons
2G rule extended to body-friendly services (hairdressers, cosmetic studios, etc.); universities; music schools and driving schools
2G Plus with an extra tests goes into effect at all leisure facilities, trade fairs, cultural and sports events with a maximum occupancy of 25 percent.
Under the 2G rule, restaurants/gastronomy must now close at 2200 hrs.
Bars, clubs and discos will close.
Christmas markets and other markets are cancelled.
Customer restriction for retail stores: 1 person per 10 square meter of space is allowed in.

There is also a hard emergency brake in hotspots: If the incidence in counties exceeds 1000, closings take place instead of 2G.

There are only exceptions for schools, day care centers and retailers with a maximum of one customer per 20 square meters.

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Bavaria Reintroduces Free COVID Tests Off-Post (Nov. 16, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Free off-post COVID testing is being reintroduced to citizens and community members in Bavaria.

Due to the change in the test ordinance on Nov. 12, 2021, citizens, regardless of vaccination status, can again take advantage of free antigen rapid tests - this time only once per week. Off-post pharmacy testing information is subject to change. As a result, the best practice is to call before you go to verify opening times and if appointments are necessary.

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FDA and CDC Authorizes Pfizer Pediatric Shots (Nov. 16, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The FDA and CDC have authorized the Pfizer pediatric two-shot doses for children ages 5 to 11 years old.

In anticipation of receiving the pediatric doses, U.S. Army Health Clinics in our footprint will administer the vaccine to all eligible Department of Defense beneficiaries, ages 5 to 11 years old. For information on dates, times and locations, please visit your local clinic's webpage.

• Grafenwoehr: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/grafenwoehr
(Note: Walk-ins are not being offered currently. Please schedule your appointment using the COVAX App/Link).
• Vilseck: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/vilseck
• Hohenfels: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/hohenfels

Information and dates for Garmsich are pending and will be updated on this post as soon as it becomes available.

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SRO COVID-19 Posture Update (Nov. 7, 2021)
7th Army Training Command

Local National employees must also starting 24 November show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test at their place of work, consistent with host nation regulations.

Grafenwoehr: HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/GRAFENWOEHR
Vilseck: HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/VILSECK
Hohenfels: HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/HOHENFELS
Ansbach: HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/ANSBACH

For links to resources in ensuring you understand COVID-19 host nation regulations in your communities, places you may wish to travel, and COVID-19 policies on our installations in Bavaria, go to WWW.7ATC.ARMY.MIL/COVID-19.

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AAFES Mask Policy Update (Nov. 23, 2021)
AAFES

EFFECTIVE 24 NOV 2021: New host nation ordinance 2G rules apply to the AAFES Barber Shops, Stylique Salons and Nail Salons. In these specific establishments, the 2G rules apply to customers 12 years of age and above. And FFP2 face masks are required for all patrons.

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Off-Post 2G Rule Changes due to RKI Numbers (Nov. 19, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Bavarian Government met today and following are the new rules that will be effective on Wednesday, Nov. 24:

Contact restrictions for the unvaccinated: 5 people, 2 households, not counting kids under the age of 12 and vaccinated persons
2G rule extended to body-friendly services (hairdressers, cosmetic studios, etc.); universities; music schools and driving schools
2G Plus with an extra tests goes into effect at all leisure facilities, trade fairs, cultural and sports events with a maximum occupancy of 25 percent.
Under the 2G rule, restaurants/gastronomy must now close at 2200 hrs.
Bars, clubs and discos will close.
Christmas markets and other markets are cancelled.
Customer restriction for retail stores: 1 person per 10 square meter of space is allowed in.

There is also a hard emergency brake in hotspots: If the incidence in counties exceeds 1000, closings take place instead of 2G.

There are only exceptions for schools, day care centers and retailers with a maximum of one customer per 20 square meters.

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Off-Post Changes due to RKI Numbers (Nov. 8, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

As of 9 November, the Bavaria COVID hospital light has changed to RED due to more than 600 COVID patients in ICU beds.

Basically, this means among other things:
• FFP2 and equivalent masks must be worn
• 2G is in effect where 3G or 3G+ was (only vaccinated or recovered are accepted)

For more information and common questions and answers visit: https://www.stmgp.bayern.de/coronavirus#kh-ampel⚠

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Off-Post Changes due to RKI Numbers (Nov. 7, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

As of 7 November, the Bavaria COVID hospital light has changed to YELLOW due to more than 450 COVID patients in ICU beds.

Basically, this means among other things:
• Raising the mask standard on FFP2 and equivalent masks
• 3G+ where 3G used to be (only PCR tests accepted)
• 2G where 3G+ use to be (only vaccinated or recovered)

For more information and common questions and answers visit: https://www.stmgp.bayern.de/coronavirus#kh-ampel⚠

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Off-Post 3G Rule Changes due to RKI Numbers (Sept. 21, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Amberg-Sulzbach and Garmisch-Partenkirchen have once again been above 35 for three days and 3G will be in effect as of Oct. 13.

Reminder: The 3G Rule still applies for the cities of Amberg and Wieden as well as Neumarkt and Neustadt ad Waldnaab county.

The 3G Rule (proof of vaccination, recovery or test) went into effect in the State of Bavaria on Aug. 23, 2021. For communities with a 7-day incidence rate of 35 cases/100k inhabitants, 3G proof is required for the following:

• To dine indoors at a restaurant
• To participate in indoor sporting events
• To attend any sporting event
• To attend indoor cultural events and concerts
• When you are a retail customer who receives services indoors
• Every 72 hours when lodging at an inn / hotel

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For a refresher on travel restrictions and other limitations, refer to GO1H and the latest signed Annex A and Tab 1, found on the 7th Army Training Command COVID-19 Portal (https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/).

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7ATC Tab 1 Amendment to ANNEX A (Sept. 7, 2021)
7th Army Training Command

7th Army Training Command has amended its Tab 1 to ANNEX A to 7ATC General Order 1 Hotel. This document helps explain the current Bavarian ordinances regarding COVID. Check out the 7ATC website https://www.7Atc.army/COVID-19/ to help stay on top of host nation law and find resources to understand travel regulations. Not knowing is not an excuse! #StrongerTogether

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7ATC Revises Mask Policy (Sept. 2, 2021)
7th Army Training Command

7th Army Training Command has issued a new revised mask policy that is available at https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/. Check it out for more information on the general guidance on the differences between host nation and on-installation regulations for vaccinated and vaccinated personnel, while indoors and outside.

The U.S. Army in Bavaria is constantly assessing the risk to our Soldiers, Civilians and Families based on a variety of host-nation metrics, combined with a high rate of vaccination within our community.

Further guidance on the wearing masks on the installation will be issued if or when appropriate through command and official information channels.

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Bavarian State Chancellery Press Release (August 31, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Bavarian State Chancellery Press Release: New ordinance on infection protection measures from Sept. 2, 2021

Currently, the official translation is being worked by the Bavaria Legal Office. Once it is available, it will be posted to the 7th Army Training Command COVID-19 Portal: https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/

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Secretary of Defense Memo regarding COVID-19 Vaccination (August 25, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

As anticipated, the Secretary of Defense has released THIS MEMO directing the COVID vaccination of all U.S. service members. More details to come on the administration of shots once they are finalized locally.

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Neustadt an der Waldnaab COVID-19 Levels (August 25, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Please be aware that Neustadt an der Waldnaab joined Weiden in having #COVID19 levels at or above 35/100k. Thus, the 3G rule (proof of vaccination, recovery or test) went into effect in the surrounding area off-post as of Aug. 25, 2021.

Additionally, all barber and beauty shops on Tower Barracks will be following this 3G rule.

For communities with a 7-day incidence rate of 35 cases/100k inhabitants, 3G proof is required for the following:
• to dine indoors at a restaurant
• to participate in indoor sporting events
• to attend any sporting events
• to attend indoor cultural events and concerts
• when you are a retail customer who receives services indoors
• every 72 hours when lodging at a hotel/inn

Find more information about Weiden 17 Aug. 2021 post, below.

If you have any questions, please refer to the 7TH ARMY TRAINING COMMAND COVID PORTAL, USAG BAVARIA COVID FAQ or your chain of command.

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Additional COVID-19 Vaccine Doses for Immunocompromised (August 24, 2021)
MEDDAC Bavaria

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are recommending individuals with compromised immune systems receive an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose.

As a result, Army Medical Treatment Facilities in Europe are contacting enrolled beneficiaries with immunocompromised conditions over the next several weeks to schedule vaccine appointments.

Immunocompromised individuals in the military community who do not normally receive care in an Army Medical Treatment Facility can also schedule appointments for an additional COVID Vaccine dose by calling their MTF’s appointment line.

A full listing of the immunocompromised conditions that qualify for an additional vaccine dose can be found on the CDC’s website, but include patients who are currently undergoing treatment for cancer, organ and stem cell transplant recipients, and those with advanced or untreated HIV infections. Full list here: HTTPS://WWW.CDC.GOV/CORONAVIRUS/2019-NCOV/VACCINES/RECOMMENDATIONS/IMMUNO.HTML

For those who completed either a Pfizer or Moderna 2-dose mRNA vaccination series, a 3rd dose of the same vaccine product may be given. If the identical mRNA vaccine is not available, then either type of mRNA vaccine may be administered.

Presently, immunocompromised patients who received the single dose Janssen (also called the J&J) vaccine are not recommended to receive an additional vaccine dose. We expect data on this population to be forthcoming.

At this time, the CDC has not made additional dose recommendations for patients solely based on age.

The FDA, CDC, and the National Institute on Health are engaged in an ongoing evidence-based, rigorous process to determine the merits of giving additional vaccinations to our healthy population.

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State of Bavaria 3G Rule (August 23, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The 3G rule (proof of vaccination, recovery or test) went into effect in Bavaria as of Aug. 23, 2021.

For communities with a 7-day incidence rate of 35 cases/100k inhabitants, 3G proof is required for the following:

• to dine indoors at a restaurant
• to participate in indoor sporting events
• to attend any sporting events
• to attend indoor cultural events and concerts
• when you are a retail customer who receives services indoors
• every 72 hours when lodging at a hotel/inn

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City of Weiden's COVID-19 Levels (August 17, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Please be aware that Weiden’s COVID levels have been at or above 50/100k for three consecutive days. This means additional COVID measures are back into effect for those that live in and visit the city. Effective Wednesday, Aug. 18, only 10 people from three households are allowed to meet publicly and privately; negative tests and/or proof of vaccination are required in restaurants; and other limitations go into effect. Please visit the city website for specifics at HTTPS://WWW.WEIDEN.DE/STADT/RATHAUS/COVID-19-AKTUELL⚠

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7ATC Amends Tab 1 to GO1H (July 21, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

7th Army Training Command amended its Tab 1 to 7ATC General Order 1 Hotel. This document helps to explain the current Bavarian ordinances regarding COVID-19.

To help stay on top of host nation law and find resources to understand travel regulations, visit:
•https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/
•https://home.army.mil/bavaria/index.php/Services/coronavirus/coronavirus-services-4

Not knowing is not an excuse!

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Regional Health Command Europe COVID-19 Update (July 21, 2021)
MEDDAC Bavaria

Brig. Gen. Mark Thompson, commanding general for Regional Health Command Europe, provides an important update on COVID-19.

Video Link: HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/USAGBAVARIA/POSTS/4072058089507217⚠

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USAHC Grafenwoehr Pfizer Update (July 7, 2021)
MEDDAC Bavaria

U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr has a very limited amount of COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine remaining. In an effort to limit waste/use the vaccine most efficiently, they are offering a small Pfizer-only vaccine event to the community this Friday (9 July 2021) from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

These vaccines are primarily intended to serve as first doses for children ages 12-17, since Pfizer is currently the only approved vaccine for this age group. Appointments can be scheduled via the COVAX website selecting the July 9 date. Those who attend will be scheduled for their second dose on-site.

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Regional Health Command Europe COVID-19 Update (July 6, 2021)
MEDDAC Bavaria

Brig. Gen. Mark Thompson, commanding general for Regional Health Command Europe, provides an important update on COVID-19.

Video Link: HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MEDDACB/POSTS/4432080473489535⚠

Want to know when your MEDDAC-Bavaria clinic is administering COVID-19 vaccinations? Please visit their Facebook page, their website or refer to this garrison post: HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/USAGBAVARIA/POSTS/3988969264482767⚠

Lastly, the U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr has a very limited amount of Pfizer vaccine remaining. In an effort to limit waste/use the vaccine most efficiently, they are offering a small Pfizer-only vaccine event to the community this Friday (9 July 2021) from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. These vaccines are primarily intended to serve as first doses for children ages 12-17, since Pfizer is currently the only approved vaccine for this age group. Appointments can be scheduled via the COVAX website selecting the July 9 date. Those who attend will be scheduled for their second dose on-site.

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USAHC Weekly COVID-19 Vaccination Events (June 28, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Want to know when your MEDDAC-Bavaria clinic is administering #COVID19 vaccinations? Please visit their Facebook page or check out their website:

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/GRAFENWOEHR

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/VILSECK

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Hohenfels
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/HOHENFELS

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USAHC Weekly COVID-19 Vaccination Events (June 28, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Want to know when your MEDDAC-Bavaria clinic is administering #COVID19 vaccinations? Please visit their Facebook page or check out their website:

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/GRAFENWOEHR

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/VILSECK

• U.S. Army Health Clinic Hohenfels
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/HOHENFELS

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German Government to lift all travel restrictions for persons residing in the United States (June 23, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

#ICYMI From the German Embassy Washington: The German Government has lifted all travel restrictions for persons residing in the United States, effective Sunday, June 20, 2021. Travel to Germany for all purposes will be permitted again. However, a proof of vaccination or proof of recovery from COVID-19 or negative test result is still required for entry via air travel.

German Embassy Website: HTTPS://WWW.GERMANY.INFO/US-EN/COVID-19/2321562⚠

In accordance with 7th Army Training Command's General Order 1H and current Annex A, you are responsible for understanding changes in host-nation rules and conducting yourself accordingly.

• 7ATC COVID-19 Portal: https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/
• USAG Bavaria COVID-19 FAQs: https://home.army.mil/bavaria/index.php/Services/coronavirus/coronavirus-services-4

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EU COVID VAX Digital Certificate Instructions (June 22, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

When U.S. personnel are vaccinated against #COVID19 on the installation, military health clinics issue patients an official vaccination card from the CDC. This card is U.S. proof of vaccination and is widely accepted.

However, some USAG Bavaria community members express interest in voluntarily signing up for the EU COVID VAX Digital Certificate to ensure additional methods of proof while traveling in the European Union. This electronic certificate is equivalent to the German physical yellow vaccination booklet known as an “Impfpass.”

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USAHC Weekly COVID-19 Vaccination Events (June 19, 2021)
U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr

U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr is scheduled to offer a weekly compliment of #COVID19 vaccine appointment opportunities to the community. Please read the organization's full message below:

Beginning next week, USAHC Grafenwoehr will offer a weekly compliment of COVID-19 vaccine appointments to provide predictable and routine immunization opportunities to the community. Appointments will be booked on the COVAX website (link below) and occur in the clinic. First Dose Appointments can be scheduled from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., while Second Dose Appointments can be scheduled from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. While we strongly encourage patients to make appointments, we will accommodate walk-ins as we are able to fit them into prescribed time slots.

Please note that the first weekly offering of these appointments will begin on a Tuesday (22 June 2021). However, every following week these appointments will occur on Wednesdays (i.e. 30 June 2021, and so on).

At this time, the majority of offerings will be for Moderna vaccines with a limited quantity of J&J. You will simply indicate which vaccine you would prefer when you present for your appointment. We will provide updates to the community if different vaccine options become available.

Appointments can be booked via COVAX by selecting the Grafenwoehr Clinic location: HTTPS://INFORMATICS-STAGE.HEALTH.MIL/BAVARIA2COVIDAPP/

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (June 16, 2021)
U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck

#HappeningTomorrow: U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck is accepting walk-ins for #COVID19 vaccinations at the Multi-Purpose Center — Building 134 (Rose Barracks, Vilseck) on Thursday, June 17, from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

During this time, German Local National employees are invited on a walk-in basis as well.

Moderna (first and second dose) and Janssen vaccines will be available.

Please visit the Defense Health Agency Appointing Portal for more information: HTTPS://INFORMATICS-STAGE.HEALTH.MIL/COVAX
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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (June 10, 2021)
U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr

USAHC Grafenwoehr will conduct its Change of Command ceremony on Friday, June 11. As a result, all clinic services (to include the Acute Respiratory Clinic (ARC) and ancillary services such as pharmacy, lab, X-ray) will operate on reduced schedule (7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) to allow our staff the opportunity to participate in the ceremony. We highly encourage those beneficiaries who are planning to conduct Covid-19 PCR testing on Friday, June 11, in preparation for official travel commencing on Monday, June 14, to present to our ARC in the morning of June 11 for PCR testing. Normal hours of operation will resume on Monday, June 14.

We appreciate your understanding!

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (June 9, 2021)
U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck

Walk-ins are accepted for #COVID19 vaccinations at the Multi-Purpose Center — Building 134 (Rose Barracks, Vilseck) for the following dates:

• Friday, 11 June 2021, from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Thursday, 17 June 2021, 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (German Local National employee walk-ins are accepted on this date)

Moderna (first and second dose) and Janssen vaccines will be available.

Please visit the Defense Health Agency Appointing Portal for more information: HTTPS://INFORMATICS-STAGE.HEALTH.MIL/COVAX

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Second Dose Vaccination Event for Youths (June 8, 2021)
U.S. Army U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr

Please view the FULL MESSAGE FROM U.S. ARMY HEALTH CLINIC GRAFENWOEHR⚠. They will conduct second-dose Pfizer vaccinations at Netzaberg Middle School on Thursday, June 10, from 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

This event is solely intended for those 12-17 year olds who received their first-dose at the Netzaberg Middle School on Thursday, May 20, 2021.

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Bavarian State Chancellery announced new easement of COVID-19 Restrictions (June 4, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Bavarian State Chancellery announced new easements of the Corona restrictions. Please read the PRESS RELEASE⚠ (English translation) for the changes effective June 7, 2021.

Please remember that you are responsible for following the rules of the Bavarian Ordinance and 7th Army Training Command General Order 1H, Annex A, Tab 1 & 2.

Helpful Links:
• 7ATC COVID-19 Portal: https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19
• USAG Bavaria COVID-19 Resources: https://home.army.mil/bavaria/index.php/Services/coronavirus

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (June 2, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

COVID-19 vaccination appointments are available at the Multi-Purpose Center (one Community), Building 134, Rose Barracks, Vilseck for both Moderna (1st dose and second dose) and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines. You choose which one you want!

Thursday, June 3, 2021, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Friday, June 4, 2021, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., (1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Local National employees Only)

Use the Defense Health Agency Appointing Portal to schedule your COVID-19 vaccination appointment: https://informatics-stage.health.mil/COVAX

Although appointments are preferred and highly encourage, we do accept walk-ins.
For more information, please go the U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck website:
https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/Vilseck
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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 25, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

MEDDAC-Bavaria is conducting an additional #COVID19 Vaccination Event this Wednesday, May 26, at Chapel Netz (Netzaberg Village - Bldg. 9000) from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

At this event, adults will be offered the Moderna and Janssen (J&J) vaccines. And youths, between the ages of 12 - 17 years old, will be offered Pfizer/Biontech. Appointments are strongly encouraged, but walk-ins will be accepted.

Make your appointment by going to U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr COVAX website: https://informatics-stage.health.mil/Bavaria2COVIDApp/

When you arrive at your scheduled time slot, please indicate which vaccine you would prefer to receive.

Follow your MTF Facebook page for more information, or go to the clinic's website: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/grafenwoehr
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Update: General Order 1H Annex A (May 24, 2021)
7th Army Training Command

Just published this afternoon is an updated GO-1H Annex A that brings gathering rules on post in line with the host nation rules. This equates to 2 households and 5 people for all of our installations at this time. Fully vaccinated individuals do NOT count towards those numbers.

Visit www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/ to read the full details of the Annex A, the Tab 1 summary that explains the local host nation laws in English, the Tab 2 that explains the German Rules on Travel Between the U.S. and Germany, as well as the German Inbound Travel and the Bavarian COVID ordinances that are in place and translated into English.

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 24, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

MEDDAC-Bavaria is conducting an additional #COVID19 Vaccination Event this Wednesday, May 26, at Chapel Netz (Netzaberg Village - Bldg. 9000) from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Make your appointment by going to U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr COVAX website: https://informatics-stage.health.mil/Bavaria2COVIDApp/

When you arrive at your scheduled time slot, please indicate which vaccine you would prefer to receive.

Follow your MTF Facebook page for more information, or go to the clinic's website: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/grafenwoehr

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 23, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

COVID-19 Reminder: Vaccination appointments are NOW available at the Multi-Purpose Center, Building 134, Rose Barracks for both Moderna (1st & 2nd dose) and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines. You choose which one you want!

US community members can stop by anytime during the drive today — Monday, May 24.

For more details (dates / times / instructions), please view U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck's full post, below.

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 21, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

USAG Bavaria Community Members: Please refer to this CHART, released by U.S. Army Europe and Africa, to remember when / where masks are mandatory On-Post.

When Off-Post, everyone must continue to comply with Host Nation rules.

Additional face covering guidance is located on the 7th Army Training Command COVID-19 Portal (https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/) and the USAG Bavaria COVID-19 FAQ Page (https://home.army.mil/bavaria/index.php/Services/coronavirus/coronavirus-services-4)

"Fully-Vaccinated" is defined as 14 days after either the second dose of a two-dose CDC and EU/HN-approved COVID-19 vaccination (such as Pfizer and Moderna), or the one-dose Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine.

For COVID-19 vaccination appointments and availability information, continue to follow MEDDAC-Bavaria and your local Military Treatment Facility.

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 21, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr is conducting an additional COVID-19 Vaccination Event tomorrow, May 22, at USAHC Grafenwoehr from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This event is intended for first doses. Moderna and J&J vaccines will be offered to those 18 or older, while a small amount of Pfizer vaccine will be available for children ages 12-17 years old.

Please Note: Parents are required to sign the DHA 207 (screening form) for those under 15. Photo identification (DOD ID Card or Passport) is required for both children and adults receiving vaccinations in order to ensure eligibility. Those without proper identification will be turned away.

While walk-ins will be accepted, appointments are highly encouraged. Please schedule your appointment via the USAHC COVAX website at: https://informatics-stage.health.mil/Bavaria2COVIDApp/

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 20, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

US community members can stop by anytime during the drive. And LNs (who are employed at our installations) are also invited to receive the vaccine this afternoon — Friday, May 21.

For more details (dates / times / instructions), please view U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck's full post, below.

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Message from Brig. Gen. Christopher Norrie (May 20, 2021)
7th Army Training Command SRO

Brig. Gen. Norrie provides an update on the implementation of the Department of Defense mask policy on Army installations in Bavaria.

The current 7ATC Mask Policy remains in effect as posted to www.7ATC.army.mil/COVID-19, but in accordance with the DoD policy, Fully Vaccinated members of the community are generally exempted from wearing masks.

This does NOT apply off-installation where host nation rules apply.

You may be asked to show your vaccination card to prove you are vaccinated by services on installation, and if not, you will be required to wear a mask.

Contrary to some misinformation that's popped up on various social media comments, it is not a HIPAA violation to ask for proof of vaccination.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) only governs those in the healthcare industry (your provider, hospital, medical insurance, etc), and prevents them from disclosing healthcare information without consent or an exception. U.S. Army units and leaders, or service providers on the installation, enforcing the mask policy for access to installation services are not health care providers, and not governed by HIPAA.

A vaccine card might qualify as protected health information, however installation services and most office settings such as unit headquarters are not healthcare provders, so they are not governed by HIPAA laws.

There are still some services on post that will require masks to be worn regardless of vaccination status, and commanders may determine certain areas require heightened protection and continue the directed wear of masks.

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 18, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

COVID-19 vaccination appointments are NOW available at the Multi-Purpose Center (one Community), Building 134, Rose Barracks, Vilseck for both Moderna (1st dose and second dose) and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines. You choose which one you want!

Friday, May 21, 2021, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., (1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Local National employees Only)
Monday, May 24, 2021, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 3, 2021, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Friday, June 4, 2021, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Use the Defense Health Agency Appointing Portal to schedule your COVID-19 vaccination appointment: https://informatics-stage.health.mil/COVAX

Although appointments are preferred and highly encourage, we do accept walk-ins.

For more information, please go the U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck website:
https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/Vilseck

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Pfizer Vaccine for Adolescent Community (May 17, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

Important Deadline: Parents must make a COVAX Appointment for their children (12 - 17 years old) NLT 12 p.m., today (May 18). #COVID19 vaccines will only be ordered for those with appointments scheduled before this deadline.

#ICYMI: Please see U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr's message (posted below) regarding how/when the COVID-19 vaccine will be made eligible to U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) beneficiaries, ages 12 to 17 years old.

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German-American Volksfest 2021 has been canceled (May 17, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

After an intensive assessment, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria has decided to not host the traditional German-American Volksfest Grafenwoehr this year due to the current Corona protective measures and restrictions.

As always, the health and safety of our staff, families and potential visitors is the garrison’s top priority. Even with the current improvements in infection numbers and increasing numbers of vaccinations we are choosing to make what we feel is the safest choice at this point in time.

While it was not the desired course of action, we are following the example of our host nation to remain cautious in our return to large events. We look forward to the coming year and continued recovery efforts so that we may once again welcome our host nation guests to the annual event.

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Pfizer Vaccine for Adolescent Community (May 16, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

ICYMI: Please see U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr's message (posted below) regarding how/when the #COVID19 vaccine will be made eligible to U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) beneficiaries, ages 12 to 17 years old.

View U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck's message, here: https://www.facebook.com/vilseckarmyhealthclinic/posts/1585927544949194⚠

For the most current information on COVID-19 vaccination scheduling for all MEDDAC-Bavaria clinics this week, please visit:
• https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/grafenwoehr
• https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/vilseck
• https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/hohenfels

***Important Note: Parents must make a COVAX Appointment for their children (12 - 17 years old) NLT 12 p.m. on Tuesday, May 18. Vaccines will only be ordered for those with appointments scheduled before this deadline.

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American Red Cross COVID-19 Q&A Session (May 16, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

SaveTheDate: Friday, May 21 | 9 p.m. to 10:15 p.m. CEST

Join American Red Cross leaders in a Q&A session regarding COVID-19 vaccination safety — specifically to support our actively serving military members, veterans and their families.

For more information, please reach out to the American Red Cross and the Grafenwoehr / Vilseck branch.

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SRO updates on-post mask policy (May 14, 2021)
7th Army Training Command SRO

Effective immediately, as directed by the Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense, Fully-Vaccinated personnel are exempt from the requirement to wear masks on installations in U.S. Army Europe and Africa.

This applies at all locations, indoor, outdoors, in-vehicles, etc.

Unvaccinated personnel must continue to comply with the 7ATC Mask Policy found at WWW.7ATC.ARMY.MIL/COVID-19.

OFF INSTALLATION, continue to follow Host Nation rules.

*Fully-Vaccinated is defined as 14 days after the either the second dose of a two-dose CDC and EU/HN-approved COVID-19 vaccination (such as Pfizer and Moderna), or the one-dose Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine.

For COVID-19 vaccination appointments and availability information, continue to follow MEDDAC-Bavaria and your local Military Treatment Facility.

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Edelweiss Lodge and Resort scheduled to reopen on May 21 (May 14, 2021)
Edelweiss Lodge and Resort News Release

Consistent with host nation rules for hotel visits, the time has finally arrived to open the doors for service member guests at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in beautiful Garmisch, Germany. The resort is scheduled to reopen one week from now on Friday, May 21.

"The staff and I are elated to welcome back our guests," said Brian Borda, general manager of Edelweiss Lodge and Resort. "The safety of our guests and staff will remain our number one priority. I am confident the improvements we made to the property while closed will have a positive impact on the guest vacation experience moving forward."

As required by Bavarian State Ordinance, occupancy will initially be limited and guests must abide by specific rules.

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Pfizer Vaccine for Adolescent Community (May 13, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

Good news Bavaria! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expanded the emergency use authorization (EUA) of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for adolescents between the ages of 12 and 15, and the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices has issued guidance on the vaccine's recommended use. We expect to receive a limited supply of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine within the next several days, specifically for our adolescents.

Since the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine’s original EUA is already approved for 16-17 year olds, this allows us to offer the vaccine to all eligible Department of Defense beneficiaries, ages 12 to 17 years old. Please use the Defense Health Agency (DHA) Appointing Portal to schedule your child’s COVID-19 vaccination appointment: HTTPS://INFORMATICS-STAGE.HEALTH.MIL/COVAX/

Grafenwoehr (Tower Barracks)
Netzaberg Middle School Gymnasium
Thursday, May 20, 2021, 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. (1st Dose)
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/GRAFENWOEHR

Hohenfels Training Area
Hohenfels Middle High School Gymnasium
Thursday, May 20, 2021, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. (1st Dose)
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/HOHENFELS

Vilseck (Rose Barracks)
Vilseck High School Gymnasium
Thursday, May 20, 2021, 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (1st Dose)
Make-up Date: May 21, 2021, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (1st Dose) at the Multi-Purpose Center, Building 134, Rose Barracks
HTTPS://MHS-EUROPE.TRICARE.MIL/VILSECK

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is a two-dose series given 21 days apart. You will need to make an appointment for your child’s second dose after receiving the initial dose.

Parents and guardians who have questions regarding vaccinations are encouraged to discuss their concerns with a medical provider.

More information about the Pfizer vaccine is available on the CDC website.

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COVID-19 FAQ Reminder (May 11, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

FAQ: Where can I find current #COVID19 infection density numbers for our local (off-post) communities?

ANSWER: Make sure you are signed up for the DoD Alert! Mass Notification System. 7th Army Training Command issues a Daily COVID Assessment e-mail that is distributed to everyone with a registered account. (Friendly Reminder: Alert! is NOT optional — it is a Headquarters Department of the Army requirement to be a registered user).

Alert! Notification Registration Steps: https://home.army.mil/bavaria/index.php/Alert

Have another question for our team? First check out U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria's full list of FAQs, here: https://home.army.mil/bavaria/index.php/Services/coronavirus/coronavirus-services-4

#WashYourHands #WearAMask #WatchYourDistance #StrongerTogether

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 9, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

COVID-19 vaccination appointments are NOW available for May 11, 2021, at the Multi-Purpose Center (Building 134) on Rose Barracks, Vilseck. Moderna (1st dose ONLY) and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccines will be administered. You choose which one you want!

Use the Defense Health Agency Appointing Portal to schedule your COVID-19 vaccination appointment: https://informatics-stage.health.mil/COVAX

Although appointments are preferred and highly encourage, MEDDAC-Bavaria will accept walk-ins.

Please fill out DHA Form 207 - COVID-19 Vaccine Screening and Immunization Documentation ahead of time and bring the form with you to the vaccination site to expedite the process. Download it on the following websites:
https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/grafenwoehr
https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/Vilseck

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Pfizer Vaccine for Adolescent Community (May 7, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

Regional Health Command Europe is working on a plan to bring a limited supply of #Pfizer vaccine to the military community in Europe, specifically for our adolescent population.

Please view the full message below from MEDDAC-Bavaria. If you have any questions, please contact your medical provider / clinic.

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event (May 5, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

HappeningTomorrow: Good news from MEDDAC-Bavaria: Our German Local Nationals (employees) can now receive their COVID-19 vaccination during our One Community Mass Vaccination Event here at Rose Barracks - Vilseck (Bldg. 134). Available dates are:

• Tuesday afternoon ONLY | May 4, 2021 (Janssen)
• Friday afternoon ONLY | May 7, 2021 (Moderna)

LN vaccinations are offered on a WALK-IN basis. If you are a LN that made an appointment using the DHA Appointment Portal, please go back and cancel your appointment.

LNs volunteering to get this vaccine, please bring your IMPFPASS (German immunization passport) and completed DHA 207 Form.

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U.S. Army offers COVID-19 vaccination to local nationals (May 5, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The One Community COVID-19 Vaccination event has kicked off at the Multi-Purpose Center on Rose Barracks. Starting on May 4, the drive event opened up to local nationals employees.

"We’ve been waiting months for the approval to get our local nationals the vaccine," said Lt. Col. Sarah Eccleston, commander of U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck. "It’s a big win. We work alongside local nationals every day. We’re glad we’re able to offer the vaccinations to them today."

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event welcomes Walk-ins (May 4, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

Walk-ins are now being accepted for COVID-19 vaccinations at the Multi-Purpose Center, Building 134, Rose Barracks, Vilseck:

• Tuesday, May 4, 2021
• Thursday, May 6, 2021
• Friday, May 7, 2021

The times for walk-in is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Those with scheduled appointments through the DHA Appointing Portal will be still be honored. Please note: Walk-ins for German Local Nationals employees is this afternoon, May 4, 2021, and Friday afternoon only, May 7, 2021.

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COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Event welcomes Local National Employees (May 3, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

Good news from MEDDAC-Bavaria: Our German Local Nationals (employees) can now receive their #COVID19 vaccination during our One Community Mass Vaccination Event here at Rose Barracks - Vilseck (Bldg. 134). Available dates are:

• Tuesday afternoon ONLY | May 4, 2021 (Janssen)
• Friday afternoon ONLY | May 7, 2021 (Moderna)

LN vaccinations are offered on a WALK-IN basis. If you are a LN that made an appointment using the DHA Appointment Portal, please go back and cancel your appointment.
LNs volunteering to get this vaccine, please bring your IMPFPASS (German immunization passport) and completed DHA 207 FORM (Deutsch Version).

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Updates to TKS COVID-19 Negative Tests (Apr. 30, 2021)
AAFES

Telecommunication shops at Exchange facilities no longer require a COVID negative test for authorized in person services (new service, cancellations and repair/return of equipment). Hardware sales still need to be performed with Click & Collect method and billing inquiries / bill payments must still be performed online or by phone.

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COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment Availability (Apr. 29, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr and U.S. Army Health Clinic Vilseck are teaming up to vaccinate the Tower and Rose Barracks military community. COVID-19 vaccination appointments are NOW available for next week, May 3 - 7, 2021. Please use the Defense Health Agency Appointing Portal to schedule your COVID-19 vaccination appointment: https://informatics-stage.health.mil/COVAX
Vaccinations will be administered at the Rose Barracks Multi-Purpose Center (Bldg. 134). Our MTFs will offer the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine on Monday and Tuesday (May 3 - 4), and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday and Friday (May 6 - 7). You can choose which one you want!
Prior to scheduling, please read the following:
• Fill out DHA Form 207, COVID-19 Vaccine Screening and Immunization Documentation ahead of time and bring it with you to the vaccination site to expedite the process. You can download on the following websites:
https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/grafenwoehr
https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/Vilseck
(Also on our MTF websites are the FDA Emergency Use Authorization Fact Sheets for the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. Please read them prior to scheduling your appointment.)
• Each request will be screened for eligibility. Individuals found ineligible will be informed via email.
• Currently, COVID-19 vaccines are only available for patients 18 years or older.
• Please ensure you provide a valid email address, as this is the primary means of contacting you about your vaccine appointment.
• Highlighted calendar days (in blue) indicate where appointments may be available. You MUST click on the calendar number to see available scheduling.
• If dates and times on the DHA Appointing Portal are greyed out, it means they are either booked or have not been opened for appointments.
• A confirmation email WILL BE SENT to all personnel who sign up for an appointment within 1 business day of making an appointment.
• You MUST bring your government photo ID card with you to your appointment. And there is a required 15-minute observation period after receiving the vaccine.
• If you book an appointment, please do not be a no-show! No-shows hurt your fellow community member’s opportunities to receive the vaccine.
• If you received your first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, you will be scheduled for your second dose prior to leaving the vaccination site.
• MEDDAC-Bavaria will ONLY open appointments on the DHA Appointing Portal as COVID-19 vaccines become available. If you do not see any available appointments, please keep checking back.

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Bavarian Ordinance Update (Apr. 27, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Bavarian government announced today that fully vaccinated individuals will be treated as individuals that have tested negative under the Bavarian infection protection regulation.
This means i.e. that they do not need a test to go shopping etc., do not have to quarantine when returning to Bavaria from abroad or when identified as a Tier 1 contact person to infected individuals.
• Now that the Bavarians have instituted it, we can follow suit.
• If you’re not fully vaccinated you still have to get a negative test.
• Fully vaccinated means 2 shots plus 15 days or J&J + 15 days.
• For those that aren’t fully vaccinated keep an eye on your clinic page for
information about more vaccines and appointments being available.
Vaccinations are available for community members at the MEDDAC-Bavaria clinics. To book an appointment, visit this TRICARE WEBSITE.
• There are still approximately 100 unbooked appointments at the U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr open to the General Community (Tier 2) for tomorrow (28 April). This will be for initial COVID-19 vaccine (Moderna Dose 1). They are available on the COVAX appointment system at: HTTPS://INFORMATICS-STAGE.HEALTH.MIL/COVAX under our site "US Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr - Tower Barracks Bldg 475."

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Negative Rapid or PCR COVID-19 Test Required at all German owned AAFES Concessionaires (Apr. 26, 2021)
AAFES

UPDATE (Apr. 28, 1 p.m.): As announced by the Bavarian government your vaccine card can be shown by those that have two weeks since their 2nd Pfizer/Moderna or the Jannsen shots. In addition, self-tests administered at the service locations can be used for negative tests. You must conduct the test at the facility and be monitored by a shop employee for it to be valid. A vending machine in the entrance of the Tower Exchange complex has tests for sale or you can bring one obtained on the economy.
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A negative COVID Test is required at all German owned AAFES concessionaires (barber and beauty, TKS, T-Mobile, etc) shops effective Tuesday, April 27. Host nation restrictions require a Rapid or PCR test for these appointments (self-tests or vaccination cards are not accepted at this time). This brings these shops in line with off post establishments in our surrounding counties and will be in place as long as the 7-day average is above 100 per 100k residents.
USAG Bavaria is attempting to work with officials from local counties and the Bavarian government to gain acceptance of averages from the installations to determine these requirements in the future.

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MTF COVID-19 Online Appointment Scheduler (Apr. 23, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

As we’ve initiated our roll out of the COVAX appointment scheduling process and opened vaccinations to the general public, we wanted to provide a bit of clarity on scheduling a second dose. We recognize there is a group of individuals in a “grey area” who scheduled and received a first dose before COVAX came online, and were scheduled for their initial vaccine via the older method of appointing (i.e. direct coordination from clinic to individual). Most of these individuals were in the Tier 1c category (i.e. high risk, mission essential, etc.).

Going forward, please utilize the below for guidance on scheduling a second dose:

1. Those in the “grey area” (i.e. were in Tier 1c and did not use COVAX for dose 1 and received their initial dose on April 8, 9, 13, 14, 20, 21) will not use COVAX to schedule dose 2. Instead, the clinic will book a traditionally scheduled appointment through the clinic booking system for you. You will likely receive an automated reminder call with the date and time of this appointment. If you do not, you will be able to call the clinic to confirm your time. Plan for these to be scheduled by early next week. For planning purposes, you should expect to come back at the date provided for your second dose at the time you came in for your initial dose.

2. Those that are in Tier 2 and scheduled Dose 1 with COVAX will schedule their second dose with COVAX as well. We will provide guidance on how to book your second dose via COVAX when you arrive for your first dose appointment.

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7ATC: Restrictions of Movement Update (Apr. 22, 2021)
7th Army Training Command SRO

The following changes are in effect regarding Restrictions of Movement in the 7th Army Training Command SRO and applicable to U.S. military personnel in Bavaria, Ukraine and Georgia. Where applicable, changes in requirements to ROM are consistent with U.S. Army Europe and Africa Policy and Bavarian law.

Consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Bavarian ordinances, a Fully Vaccinated person identified as a close contact during Contact Tracing will no longer be required to quarantine.

When a unit executes the 7ATC COVID Response Battle Drill 1, Fully Vaccinated personnel are exempt from ROM requirements.

Fully Vaccinated personnel deploying to installations in the 7ATC SRO for training and exercises will not be required to ROM before start of training; this includes Regionally Aligned Forces.

Personnel traveling to other nations for official travel must still conduct ROM if specified by that nation, but there is no requirement to ROM upon return to Bavaria.

Inbound personnel on PCS orders that are Fully Vaccinated do not need to ROM upon arrival on installation. However, for inbound PCS personnel that move directly to quarters or hotels off installations, only the Soldier/Civilian holding orders may be exempted from ROM if they are Fully Vaccinated; all other family members (regardless of vaccination status) must still conduct a ROM per host nation requirements.

At this time there are no changes for unofficial travel in accordance with Bavarian law.

Personnel not meeting the definition of Fully Vaccinated must continue to ROM in accordance with U.S. Army Europe and Africa Response to COVID-19 policies. More information can be found in the attached chart.

“Fully Vaccinated” is defined by the Centers for Disease Control as those individuals that are more than 14-days removed from receiving either a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine (the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine), or the second dose in a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series (the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines). Those vaccinated with the AstraZeneca vaccine or other vaccines that have not been approved by the CDC or the host nation are NOT considered Full Vaccinated.
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MTF COVID-19 Online Appointment Scheduler (Apr. 20, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr is excited to announce that we are now offering COVID-19 vaccine appointments to all eligible beneficiaries, regardless of tier category.

Prior to scheduling, please read the following criteria:

1. Each request will be screened for eligibility. Individuals found ineligible will be informed via email.
2. Currently, COVID-19 vaccines are only available for patients 18 years or older.
3. Please ensure you provide a valid email address, as this is the primary means of contacting you about your vaccine appointment.
4. If you book an appointment, please do not be a no-show! No-shows hurt your fellow community member’s opportunities to receive the vaccine. Please remember your DOD ID when you arrive for your appointment.
5. Highlighted calendar days (in blue) indicate where appointments may be available. You MUST click on the calendar number to see available scheduling.
6. If dates and times on the DHA Appointing Portal are greyed out, it means they are either booked or have not been opened for appointments.
7. Please ensure that if you register for a first dose that you will be able to be present for your second dose (28 days later).

We will ONLY open appointments on the appointing portal as COVID-19 vaccines become available. If you do not see any available appointments, please keep checking back.

Check for available appointments using the Defense Health Agency Appointing Portal: https://informatics-stage.health.mil/COVAX

NOTE: The site works best on a computer, not a cell phone.

Please ensure you check the “US Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr” location option and not the Grafenwoehr Field House option when scheduling an appointment.

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MTF COVID-19 Screening Form (Apr. 20, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

Beginning today, individuals in the Tower Barracks community with pre-existing medical conditions placing them at high risk if contracting the COVID-19 virus can self-identify using a screening sheet as a mechanism to volunteer to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. This sheet can be accessed via our website, https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/grafenwoehr.

Once completed, individuals can submit the form via encrypted email to a secured email address. In the event individuals are unable to send an encrypted email, DOD SAFE can be utilized (https://safe.apps.mil/). DOD SAFE is platform that allows documents to be securely uploaded and sent; please send pass phrase to the above e-mail address or bring your form directly to U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr front desk.

When the clinic has received and screened sheets, we will contact individuals directly to schedule a time to receive the vaccine.

At present, this opt-in form is open to those ages 18-64 with pre-existing conditions. Individuals do not need to be existing TRICARE beneficiaries. Local National employees are not currently able to receive a vaccine through a MTF, we hope this to change in the near future.

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TB Acute Respiratory Clinic Moves (Apr. 16, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

The Tower Barracks Acute Respiratory Clinic (ARC) is moving!

Beginning on Monday (19 APR) the ARC will be moving out of the main clinic and into a new building. The new ARC is located near the Grafenwoehr Library and the main clinic (BLDG 475) and is accessed via Saratoga Avenue. There are signs to point patients in the direction of parking for diagnostic (symptomatic) or surveillance (protocol) testing. The clinic will continue to provide COVID-19 screening and testing for our community as it has been doing for over a year.

The main change from previous operations will occur for surveillance/protocol testing. Those requiring surveillance testing for official reasons are strongly encouraged to call the Grafenwoehr Appointment Line to schedule a time for testing. Those with POVs will park in one of five designated spots and be tested in their vehicle, while those without POVs will present to a tent adjacent to the new ARC. The ARC team will still service walk-ins, but individuals with appointments will take priority.

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MEDDAC-Bavaria: Janssen Vaccine Pause (Apr. 16, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the CDC have recommended the immediate pause of the Johnson and Johnson/Janssen #COVID19 vaccine due to a few reports of “rare and severe” blood clots. Out of an abundance of caution, the Defense Health Agency and the Military Health System immediately implemented their guidance.

Patient Safety is one of our top priorities, and we take all reports of health problems following COVID-19 vaccination very seriously.

If you received the Janssen vaccine and experience a severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath within three weeks after vaccination, please contact your health care provider as soon as possible.

We will continue to provide updates regarding the temporary suspension of the Janssen vaccine, but if you have any questions about the vaccine or experience any of the side effects mentioned above, please contact your primary care provider or go the nearest emergency medical treatment facility.

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Temporarily Closed: Hohenfels Barber Shops (Apr. 15, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Hohenfels Barber Shops will be temporarily closed after a COVID positive test. Additional testing and tracing operations are underway. Affected customers will be contacted by COVID Task Force team members. More information will be provided when the facilities have been cleaned and are able to reopen.

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MEDDAC-Bavaria: COVID Vaccine Update (Apr. 13, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

U.S. Army medical treatment facilities are working hard to execute the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)’s plan to offer the #COVID19 vaccine to all eligible beneficiaries beginning April 19, and to administer at least an initial dose to every eligible person who wants one by mid-May.

Over the next three weeks, we expect to receive approximately 30,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine, and it’s likely that we’ll receive even more than that if all goes as planned. Stay tuned to your Medical Treatment Facility’s web and social media channels for the latest information on where and how vaccines will be administered. Army MTFs only receive information on projected vaccine shipments about three weeks in advance of delivery, but as always, vaccine distribution is contingent upon receipt of vaccine.

Vaccine allotments are shipped directly to each MTF, based on Army priorities and vaccine availability. Unless there’s an exceptional circumstance, we don’t redistribute vaccine from one MTF to another to prevent vaccine compromise or loss in transit. As a result, some medical treatment facilities are moving through the DoD Prioritization Tiers more quickly than others. This is based on the number of people in each tier, and vaccine availability at each MTF.

Please don’t call your clinic to request a vaccine. Your clinic will provide information on their website and Facebook pages on how to access vaccinations. As always, we encourage all those who are eligible to receive the vaccine when it’s available.

Information updates will be provided through command channels, here on Facebook, and on our public website: https://mhs-europe.tricare.mil/Patient-Resources/COVID-19.

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MEDDAC-Bavaria: COVID Vaccine Update (Apr. 9, 2021)
MEDDAC-Bavaria

The Defense Health Agency recently announced that the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) will begin offering the #COVID19 vaccine to all eligible beneficiaries beginning April 19, and they expect that overseas installations will have enough vaccines to administer at least an initial dose to every eligible person who wants one by mid-May. We are working with U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Army Medical Command for clarifying guidance on the anticipated increase in vaccine distribution, and we’ll provide information on upcoming COVID-19 vaccination events and the process for getting vaccinated. As always, vaccine distribution is contingent upon receipt of vaccine.
Next week, the majority of our MTFs will continue to administer COVID-19 vaccines to personnel in the 1B (national critical capability personnel, rapidly deploying personnel, front-line mission essential workers and those community members aged 75 years old and greater), and the 1C (authorized persons aged >65-74 years and 18 - 64 year olds with increased risk for severe illness) tier groups.

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Temporarily Closed: Tower Barracks PPPO (Mar. 24, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The LRC Bavaria Personal Property Processing Office (PPPO), located at Bldg. 244 Tower Barracks, is currently closed due to a COVID-19 detection. The PPPO will not be servicing customers for the next 14 days (from March 24 through April 6, 2021).

Customers needing assistance may contact:
• Hohenfels at DSN: 522-2809 / CIV: 09472-708-2809
• Garmisch at DSN: 440-3488 / CIV 08821-750-3488

Note: During your call, please indicate your home stations (Grafenwoehr or Vilseck).
If there are any additional questions, please contact the ITO at DSN: 475-6343 / CIV: 09641-83-6343. Thank you for your understanding.
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Town Hall Highlights (March 17, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• Ensure you write legibly and leave accurate contact information, when filling out tracing contact information.
• If your kids are feeling ill, keep them at home. If you are feeling ill, stay home.
• If you are not contacted by the tracing team, then you are not considered a close contact. That being said, always monitor for symptoms and call your health care provider if any arise.
• Because of the COVID variance, we are going back to a 14-day ROM / quarantine in certain circumstances. Community members identified as COVID Positive and their close contacts are required a 14-day ROM / quarantine. Community members who are returning from travel (i.e. PCS) require a 10-day ROM / quarantine.
• If you are told to go to the ARC because you were traced back to be a potential close contact, you must go to the ARC to get tested.
• MEDDAC-Bavaria will message the community once they receive more vaccines. They will continue to administer vaccines as they receive them.
• There is an increase in severity in the new COVID virus, see the report from the British Medical Journal here: https://www.bmj.com/content/bmj/372/bmj.n579.full.pdf
• According to MEDDAC-Bavaria professionals, the Moderna vaccine that we are using in this footprint seems to work against the new UK variant.
• Vaccinated individuals are not exempt from any current regulations.
• March is National Nutrition Awareness Month. Eatright.org is sponsoring this month with 'personalize your plate.' Go to https://www.eatright.org to learn more.
• MEDDAC-B nutritionists are available to all Tricare recipients. They are there to help you and your family make healthy food choices. Call your local health clinic for more information.
• Here are the ‘Big 5’ keys to follow for National Nutrition Awareness Month: (1) Ensure your plate is half fruits and vegetables. (2) Get to know your food labels. (3) Drink more water. (4) When you snack, snack smart. (5) Meal prep helps you stay on track.
• Tobacco cessation programs are available at the local clinics. Go to your local medical clinic for more information.
• If you are having an issue at a health clinic, please ask to speak to a detachment sergeant, chief nurse, or clinic commander. Alternatively, you can send in an ICE comment or a Facebook message to MEDDAC-Bavaria.
• If you want feedback from the ICE comment you submitted, ensure you check the block that says you want a response and also include your contact information.
• Talk to your chain of command about any questions regarding leave.
• Ensure your student sits in their assigned seats while on the bus to ensure that accurate tracing is possible.
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Temporarily Closed: Zone Cafe in Vilseck (Mar. 10, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Facilities are scheduled to reopen on March 29.

Out of an abundance of caution, the Zone Café on Rose barracks will be closed temporarily. Contact tracing and cleaning operations are underway. As always, if you feel ill please stay home and contact your medical provider for further guidance.
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Temporarily Closed: IACS / ID Card / Fingerprint / Passport Offices in Grafenwoehr and Vilseck (Mar. 10, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Facilities are scheduled to reopen on March 29.

The Tower Barracks ID Card, Passport, Fingerprint and IACS offices will be closed due to COVID-19. Contact tracing operations are still ongoing. If you had an appointment at one of these facilities, please monitor for any COVID symptoms. If any are present, please contact your health care provider for evaluation and possible testing.

Currently scheduled passport appointments will be rescheduled via email. Currently scheduled ID card appointments will be rescheduled as soon as the ID card office is able to reopen. Currently scheduled fingerprint appointments will be rescheduled as soon as the fingerprint office is able to reopen. Emails sent to the ID card and passport offices will be answered as quickly as possible.

The 2 CR ID card office will provide support for emergency CAC pin resets and emergency CAC issuance for Service Members (i.e. lost/stolen/expired ID cards). The phone number to schedule an appointment is DSN 599-0174 / CIV 09641-70-599-0174.

The Hohenfels ID card office will provide emergency ID card issuancefor civilian and host nation employees, family members and retirees (i.e. lost/stolen/expired ID cards). Please call the Hohenfels ID card office PRIOR to driving to Hohenfels at DSN 522-2547 / CIV 09472-708-2547. Failure to contact the Hohenfels ID card office prior to visiting, may result in denial of service.

The Hohenfels passport office will provide emergency passport services (i.e. emergency passport applications or emergency SOFA card issuance). Please contact the Hohenfels passport office PRIOR to driving to Hohenfels at DSN 522-2734 / CIV 09472-708-2734. Failure to contact the Hohenfels ID card office prior to visiting, may result in denial of service.
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7ATC Updates COVID-19 Policies (Mar. 8, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

7th Army Training Command has updated several COVID polices and informational resources applicable to the the U.S. military community in Bavaria, in alignment with last week's mitigation measures from Germany and Bavaria.
• Annex A explains the local travel restrictions and social gathering limitations both on and off the installation, as part of the General Order.
• Tab 1 translates and summarizes the Bavarian ordinance in effect through March 28.
• The Mask Policy applies on the installation, both indoors and outdoors.

These resources and more can be found at www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/.
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Bavaria Ordinance COVID-19 Restriction Update (Mar. 5, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Depicted HERE⚠ is a representation of the announced changes to COVID-19 restrictions built from the State of Bavaria's news release following their deliberations on March 4. Updates will be made if necessary once a new ordinance is released and translated. As always, the ordinance will be posted to the 7ATC COVID information page (https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/). Any changes to the General Order, Annex A or Tab 1 will be posted there as well once signed and released. Please address any questions to your chain of command or unit legal advisor.

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Town Hall Highlights (March 3, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

** CORRECTION ** We have been advised (and confirmed through legal) that bus drivers are NOT required to wear a mask while driving for multiple reasons to include safety for the passengers. We apologize for any confusion on the matter.
• Host Nation restrictions are extended until the March 28, 2021. All rules still remain in place. We will provide more information once we receive it.
• Beauty and Barbershops are open on-post by appointment. Please wear an FFP2 mask, if you are entering those establishments. FFP2 masks are available for purchase at the PX. The use of FFP2 masks are also required off-post: in all open stores, while using transit, attending religious services, inside medical establishments and when entering restaurants. Additionally, the Kaiserslautern military community installations also require the use of FFP2 or similar masks.
• Quarantine and testing is still a requirement — even if you are vaccinated. All rules and regulations that are in place still apply to those who have been vaccinated.
• A COVID test is required to travel back to the U.S.
• Unofficial overnight trips are still currently unauthorized. Hotel stays, that are not business-related, are currently forbidden by the Bavarian ordinance.
• The garrison is extending the hours at the Hohenfels gym.
Mon - Fri: 0530 - 2000 (closed for deep cleaning 1300 - 1400)
Sat - Sun, US and Training Holidays: 0800 - 1600
• The Tower Barracks post office has established an express and bulk line. The express line will cater to patrons who are picking up 2 items or less. The bulk line is reserved for those who are picking up 3 or more packages.
• Incoming personnel, who want to be put on the wait list for USAG Bavaria Housing, should send their orders to their sponsor as soon as they receive them. However, offers won’t be made until three weeks prior to arrival.
• There are currently no changes to any CDC programs.
• Quiet hours are from 2200 – 0600 and all day on Sunday. Be a good neighbor!
• Consider donating to the Army Emergency Relief.
• #BetterInBavaria: The Bavaria Health Initiative has just kicked off. Consider participating in the Owning My Own Readiness Program.

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USAG Bavaria Friday Community Update (Feb. 26, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• DoDEA Europe sent out a policy yesterday about FFP2 masks for school busses, but this policy has since been reversed. Cloth masks are the minimum requirement for our kids on the bus and at school.
• DoDEA students have been talking about hosting birthday parties at their homes. Here’s reminder of the current regulations: (1) We are still under a lockdown and visitation to your homes are limited (2) On-post, only two families may gather (3) Off-post, only your family plus one individual may gather.
• Here’s the list of services expected to reopen on March 1:
- Barber shops, beauty salons and personal care services (such as manicures, pedicures and facial care); FFP2 masks are required when receiving a haircut; Tower Barracks Spa is expected to reopen on March 3
- Garden centers, tree nurseries and hardware stores
- Music lessons may resume in areas where the 7-day incident rate is below 100 cases / 100,000 people
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Secretary of Defense Mask Policy Update (Feb. 16, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

7th Army Training Command has issued an updated Mask Policy for wear of masks on the installation, as well as an updated Tab 1 that helps explain the latest changes in Bavarian law.

The updated mask policy reflects directives from the Secretary of Defense applicable across all U.S. military installations, and reiterates the requirement for our community members to know and adhere to host nation ordinances.

Masks are required on Army installations for any indoor or outdoor shared spaces, with exceptions noted in the policy to include Army housing.

For example, if you are walking by yourself on the installation or alone in your vehicle, you do not require a mask. If you are walking or exercising in a group, or riding in a vehicle with people other than members of your household, then you must wear a mask.

The policy and Tab 1, plus many other informational links, are available at www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/.
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Update to Bavarian Ordinance (Feb. 11, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The lockdown currently in place has been extended through March 7 according to Federal German and Bavarian officials. There is no current change to any installation services. Travel outside of work or your home should be minimized as much as possible. Reopening of schools is being looked at closely by DoDEA and senior leaders, more information will be provided when available. Barbers and hairdressers will be able to resume operations March 1 under updated conditions. Please address any additional questions to your chain of command or unit legal advisor.

An updated Annex A was signed by BG Norrie today. The significant change to this document is allowing 2 households to gather ON POST ONLY. Host nation rules apply to anyone living off the installation, to include those in leased housing units.

A translation of the updated Bavarian Ordinance will be posted to the 7th ATC COVID-19 Portal (https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/) once it is received. You can also find the most recent General Order, Tab A and Annex 1 on their site as well.

Current rules that remain in place include:
• FFP2 masks (or KN-95/N-95) must be worn off post if using public transportation or shopping for those age 15 and above. Children 6-14 must still wear cloth face coverings.
• Meeting in private can only be done with members of your household and one (1) additional person.
• If you are returning to Germany following leisure travel you must have a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country and complete the USAREUR-AF directed 10 day quarantine. There is no change to the current requirements for PCS or official travel (a negative test to enter county and a negative test to exit quarantine).
• Schools remain in remote learning through at least Feb. 19
• The 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew remains in effect for counties and cities with a 7-day incidence above 100. No curfew in effect if the incident rate is below 100 for 7 consecutive days.
• All nonessential shops and services remain closed
• Leaders are encouraged to allow teleworking as much as possible
• Religious events may take place if they follow hygiene rules but singing is not permitted
As a reminder, you are responsible for knowing the details of the ordinance and are responsible for any violations.
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Col. Danbeck receives the COVID-19 vaccine (Feb. 3, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Watch the video, here ⚠
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Town Hall Highlights (Feb. 3, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• MEDDAC-Bavaria is hosting another virtual town hall tonight — Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. Go to their page to watch the town hall: https://www.facebook.com/events/981810682348867 ⚠
• ARMA: Use the new maintenance app at armymaintenance.com ⚠ for all work order needs. Ensure you select on your specific building and address, if available.
• The USAG Bavaria community is desperate for families and homes to volunteer for the emergency placement care (EPC) program through ACS. For more information, click this link.
• COVID Vaccine: The Emergency Use Authorization COVID-19 vaccine is an MNRA (messenger NRA) vaccine, given in a two-dose series. The vaccine is injected in a large muscle, like the deltoid. There are manageable known anticipated affects that the FDA and the medical clinics are aware of. The most common is slight pain at the injection site. The second dose is administered 28 days later. When receiving the vaccine, you will be required to wait for 15 minutes after the injection has occurred to ensure the recipients safety. MEDDAC-Bavaria is following the DoD list of prioritization for who gets the vaccine. This is a phased approach that is currently being worked through. MEDDAC-Bavaria is working to identify individuals in the specific phases.
• Flu Vaccine: The vaccine is available at the medical clinics. Do not get the flu vaccine within 14 days of getting the COVID vaccine.
• Vehicle Registration: Be proactive. Try and schedule your appointments early. Be prepared. This is the largest OCONUS Garrison overseas. The office manages over 16,000 vehicles. Don’t wait to renew your vehicle registration. Vehicle registrations can be renewed 75 days prior to expiring. Be prepared. On average, there is a 10% no-show for appointments. There is a 30% no-show rate on training holidays. An appointment missed by you, is an appointment missed by two. An average of 20% of customers who show up to the appointments aren’t entirely prepared with all the paperwork necessary to complete the appointment. Follow the checklists and ensure all paperwork is complete. Walk-ins are not always possible due to COVID restrictions. If there is a no-show, it is possible to back fill. However, there is no guarantee. Check out the new redesigned vehicle registration page.
Also, online booking for appointments are now live.
• Post Office: The garrison and the Post Office is looking at ways to shorten the line. The post office is still seeing a holiday-level amount of packages. Online ordering is more popular then ever.
• Snow & Ice removal: Snow removal is a realigned priority.
• DoDEA schools are still virtual only until Feb. 12, 2021.
• In Bavaria: FFP2 masks are necessary off-post when shopping in the economy, during medical appointments and when using public transportation.
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DoDEA Europe Schools to remain virtual through mid-February (Jan. 29, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

DoDEA Europe Schools announced Jan. 28 that schools in Germany would largely remain virtual through mid February in accordance with host nation schools.

Brig. Gen. Christopher Norrie, 7th Army Training Command commander, addresses this announcement as both the senior responsible officer for U.S. military in Bavaria and as a parent, asking for continued support of each other and especially for parents and school age children in the community. View the video, here⚠.

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COVID-19 Vaccination Plan (Jan. 26, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The COVID-19 vaccine is currently being administered in phases based on CDC and U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) guidance. Check with your military hospital or clinic to learn how and when you can be vaccinated.

For more information, visit: www.tricare.mil/COVIDVaccine

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Update to Bavarian Ordinance (Jan. 20, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The German government has announced that the current restrictions in place have been extended to Feb. 14. There are no changes to USAG Bavaria services or policies at this time. Please address any questions to your chain of command or unit legal advisor.

A translation of the Bavarian Ordinance will be posted to the 7th ATC COVID-19 Portal (https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/) at once it is received. You can also find the most recent General Order, Tab A and Annex 1 on their site as well.
Current rules in place include:
• FFP2 masks (or KN-95/N-95) must be worn off post if using public transportation or shopping for those age 15 and above. Children 6-14 must still wear cloth face coverings.
• Meeting in private can only be done with members of your household and one (1) additional person.
• If you live in an area that has a 7 day average more than 200 per 100,000 people you are limited to travel within 15km of your city or county for anything other than a valid reason (this includes work and medical appointments).
• If you are returning to Germany following leisure travel you must have a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country and complete the USAREUR-AF directed 10 day quarantine. There is no change to the current requirements for PCS or official travel (a negative test to enter county and a negative test to exit quarantine).
• Schools remain in remote learning
• The 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew is still in effect
• All nonessential shops and services remain closed
• Leaders are encouraged to allow teleworking as much as possible
• No alcohol consumption in public
• Religious events may take place if they follow hygiene rules but singing is not permitted
As a reminder, you are responsible for knowing the details of the ordinance and are responsible for any violations.
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Requirement for Proof of Negative COVID-19 Test or Recovery from COVID-19 for All Air Passengers Arriving in the United States(Jan. 15, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Beginning Jan. 26, 2021, if you travel from a foreign country to the U.S., you must provide a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before travel.

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Bavaria State Requires FFP2 Masks Off-Post (Jan. 12, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Jan. 15 - UPDATE: The Bavarian government has announced that KN-95 masks are an acceptable alternative to the FFP2 mask requirement. AAFES has also received some masks that should be available in stores by early next week. There will be a one week grace period before fines begin for not having the appropriate mask on public transportation or shopping facilities. As a reminder, this is off-post only. These masks are not required on any USAG Bavaria installations.
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Jan. 14 - UPDATE: FFP2 masks now required for shopping and public transit in Bavaria ⚠
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Jan. 13 - UPDATE: The FFP2 masks announced yesterday by the Bavarian ministers are only required off-post on public transportation or while shopping. Children under 15 years are not required to use this mask. In discussion between senior leaders and the SRO, it has been decided there will NOT be a requirement for these masks on any of our installations. AAFES is working to obtain the FFP2 variants to make available in garrison facilities, but this will take some time. Our liaison officer in Munich has asked if the N-95 mask many people already have is an acceptable substitution but they have not received an answer as of yet.
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Jan. 12 - ORIGINAL: Bavaria will now require FFP2 masks to be worn on public transportation and in retail stores off post effective Monday, 18 January according to a Bavarian government press release. FFP2 masks can be found at Apothecary stores off post.
The infection situation due to the Corona pandemic continues to be very tense in Bavaria and Germany. Unfortunately, the measures taken so far have not yet led to the hoped-for noticeable and sustainable decrease in the number of infections. The goal is to achieve a seven-day incidence of less than 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Only from this incidence value onwards is reliable tracking of infection routes guaranteed. Currently, the occurrence of highly contagious viral mutations in some countries is of particular concern, and their introduction and spread in Bavaria and Germany must be avoided.

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Official Translation to Bavarian Ordinance 11 Supplement and New Tab 1 of GO1G (Jan. 11, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The official translation of the supplement to Bavarian Ordinance 11 and a new Tab 1 to the 7th ATC General order is posted on the 7th ATC COVID-19 web page (https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/). Germany and Bavaria have extended the current lockdown through 31 January. There are no changes to current operations on USAG Bavaria installations. Following are the changes in this update:
• Meeting in private can now only be done with members of your household and one (1) additional person (age no longer affects the count).
• If you live in an area that has a 7 day average more than 200 per 100,000 people you are limited to travel within 15km of your city or county for anything other than a valid reason (this includes work and medical appointments).
• If you are returning to Germany following leisure travel you must have a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country and complete the USAREUR-AF directed 10 day quarantine. There is no change to the current requirements for PCS or official travel (a negative test to enter county and a negative test to exit quarantine).
Current rules that remain in place include:
• Schools remain in remote learning through 31 January
• The 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew is still in effect
• All nonessential shops and services remain closed
• Leaders are encouraged to allow teleworking as much as possible
• No alcohol consumption in public
• Religious events may take place if they follow hygiene rules but singing is not permitted
As a reminder, you are responsible for knowing the details of the ordinance and are responsible for any violations. If you have additional questions, please contact your chain of command or unit legal advisor.
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Update to Bavarian COVID-19 Restrictions (Jan. 8, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The current lockdown has been extended to January 31. The Bavarian parliament met this afternoon to discuss and approve the changes to the ordinance so we are still waiting for final determination. Here is what we expect in additon to the current restrictions:
• The number of people that can meet privately is reduced to your household and one additional person. Age no longer matters in this calculation.
• If you are returning to Germany from a COVID-19 hotspot you must have a negative test to ener Germany and you must have a negative test to end your quarantine. You are still required to follow the USARUER-AF timeline of 10 days on the quarantine.
• Travel restriction to 15 km travel for coummunities that have 7 day averages over 200 per 100,000 residents.
• Please follow the 7ATC website and our Facebook channel for most up-to-date information.
• No adjustments to garrison services at this time.
• Schools remain in remote learning, all nonessential shops remain closed.
• Visit the Acute Respiratory Clinic if you have symptoms develop to be evaluated and tested if necessary.
• Child and Youth Services customers need to be aware of a change that requires verfication of the Total Family Income. Please contact CYS for more details.
• The Digital Garrison app is available in app stores. We encourage to download the app.
Stay healthy, #BetterInBavaria
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Town Hall Highlights (Jan. 6, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• Army housing tenant survey is still available until Jan 15. If you live in Army housing, please fill out the survey.
• ARMA, or the housing app, is going live on Jan 19. The app streamlines work orders and housing issues. Housing and barracks residents will be able to sign up and access the new system at https://www.armymaintenance.com⚠
To learn more about the housing app, click the link
• Download the new digital garrison app on your respective app store. Click here for more info.
• Please remind your children not to walk on the lakes this winter. They may not be frozen all the way through.
• On Jan 20, from 2-4p.m., there will be a virtual career skills program ⚠ fair for transitioning service members. Spouses and veterans are also welcome.
• Show some love, be the face of change. The Combined Federal Campaign-Overseas ⚠ will be available for service members and civilian employees to make donations until Jan 15.
• The gyms and bowling centers on-post remain open. The gyms provide opportunity to keep fitness of the force and morale available to our Troops.
---------------------------
Bavarian Ordinance
---------------------------
• The German Government has decided to extend the lockdown until Jan 31. We will publish local changes as we receive them. As of now, there are no changes to installation services. However, private meetings are now limited to your household, and one other individual.
• Residents of "hotspots" or 200 cases per 100,000, are restricted from traveling more than 15km from their home, without a valid reason.
• Double testing is now required for people returning from high risk areas. While German ordinance requires a 5 day restriction of movement, US Army Europe-Africa orders require 10 days, which is what all SOFA status personnel should follow.
• Rules that remain in place: Employers are encouraged to maximize telework. Non-essential shops and services remain closed. No alcohol consumption in public. Religious events may take place as long as hygiene procedures are in place; however, singing is still not allowed. Schools remain closed to in-person learning.
----------------
MEDDAC-B
----------------
• MEDDAC-B Commander Col. Bryan says thank you. Thank you for everything you've done. We've learned and grown and have come together as a team. Because of our response and discipline across our entire footprint, we are at the lowest number of COVID cases we have had in the last 10 months. We are here now because of the way we have embraced our protective measures.
• Flu vaccine shipments are arriving in USAG-Bavarian footprint within the next week. MEDDAC-B will announce the dates once it arrives.
--------------------------
COVID-19 Vaccine
--------------------------
• The FDA has approved an Emergency Use Authorization for two COVID-19 vaccines, the Moderna vaccine and the Pfizer vaccine. MEDDAC-B is receiving the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
• Currently, MEDDAC-B is going through a controlled pilot, which is the start of a deliberate and phased approach. This means that they have a very small amount and are testing the system with select individuals. From a controlled pilot, they will go into an expanded distribution phase, which is when they will rapidly scale up the amount of vaccines given to the community.
• The DoD is currently working on the distribution pipelines to ensure there are sufficient amounts of the vaccine.
• If you receive the vaccine, you will still be required to wear a mask, physically distance and practice all guidelines in your respective area.
-----------
DoDEA
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• Remote learning will stay in effect until Jan 31 in the USAG-B footprint. Different German states have different rules.
• Some schools in certain states may go to school earlier than Jan 31, please understand that DoDEA and USAG-B collaborate based on what the host nation and state are doing.
• Teachers and principals are ready and willing to help out. Reach out to your children's teacher if you are struggling.
• School lunch can be picked up at Grafenwoehr Elementary, Netzaburg, and in Vilseck.
• If you need a device for your children to participate in the remote learning, contact your child's school to check out a device.
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CYS & CDC
-----------------
• No changes are being made to CYS or CDC services.
• CYS is there to provide the opportunity for your child to receive the remote learning education. They are not responsible for forcing your children to participate in their classes. If you would like CYS employees to call you if your children are not participating, you may make arrangements to do so.
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Germany announces 31 Jan lockdown extension (Jan. 6, 2021)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The German government announced last night that the current lockdown will be extended until 31 January. The Bavarian cabinet will meet today or tomorrow and the rules in Bavaria may differ from the Germany-wide update, as we have seen in the past. Once they meet and we receive the updated ordinance, we will post the specifics of the extension and any additional restrictions.
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U.S. Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr administers first COVID-19 vaccine (Dec. 28, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

U.S. Army Capt. Skyler Brown becomes the first service member in all of U.S. Army Europe and Africa to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at US Army Health Clinic Grafenwoehr, Tower Barracks, Grafenwoehr, Germany, Dec. 28, 2020. View the photo, here ⚠.

Read more about the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)’s phased vaccination approach: https://www.army.mil/article/242051

Watch AFN Bavaria's video coverage of the event, here ⚠.
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Quarantined personnel can now request mail delivery (Dec. 9, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

USAG Bavaria post offices are now coordinating with sponsors of quarantined and isolated personnel to assist them with mail delivery. Starting immediately, affected personnel can begin the electronic authorization process.

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Area Curfew: Vilseck and Hohenfels (Dec. 9, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Effective Dec. 9 any community with infection numbers more than 200 per 100,000 people are under a curfew from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. per Bavarian Ordinance. Amberg-Sulzbach Landkreis (the county in which Vilseck resides) and Neumarkt i.d. Opf. Landkreis (the county in which Hohenfels Training Area resides) is under curfew beginning tonight.

Leaving one's home is only permitted for the following reasons:
• A medical or veterinary emergency or another urgent medical treatment which cannot be delayed.
• Exercising professional or official duties or urgent training purposes.
• Exercising parental custody rights and visitation rights.
• Providing urgent care for persons in need or minors.
• Accompanying dying persons.
• Activities necessary for animal care,
• Participating in worship services and gatherings of religious communities during the time period of 24 thru 26 December 2020, or
• Other imperative and irrefutable reasons.

USAG Bavaria community members are reminded that they are responsible to follow the Bavarian Ordinance and are personally responsible for any fines resulting from infractions.

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Hohenfels schools conducts virtual classes on select days (Dec. 9, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Hohenfels Elementary School will join the Middle-High School by conducting virtual classes Thursday and Friday, as we still work through contact tracing and additional testing. Please see notices from the school for additional details.

The Child Development Center, Youth Center, SKIES and Youth Sports programs will also remain closed for Thursday and most likely Friday.

The School Age Center will remain closed due to staffing issues through Dec. 18, 2020.
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7ATC issues General Order 1G (Dec. 9, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The State of Bavaria has updated their Health Protection Ordinance with an effective date of 9 December. Accordingly, 7th Army Training Command has issued General Order 1G effective 9 December as well in order to closely align our community with our Bavarian hosts.

This information is provided for your awareness. You are responsible for your actions and can be held accountable to not following the guidance. If you have specific questions, please speak to your chain of command or unit legal advisor.

The key points of the Bavarian ordinances are as follows:
• Gatherings are still limited to 2 households & 5 people in private locations (children under 14 do not count toward total numbers).
• The only exception to this at this time is for Dec. 23-26 where 10 people can gather in private with no limit to the number of households. This exception DOES NOT apply to New Years.
• Movement from your home should be minimized to compelling reasons. These include: work; medical & veterinary services;
shopping & getting supplies (including holiday errands); visiting another house while observing gathering limits; visiting life partners, the elderly, the sick or persons with disabilities; sport & exercise in the fresh air, alone, with your own household & with another household as long as a total of 5 people is not exceeded.
• For any county or urban district that surpasses 200 cases per 100K additional restrictions will be introduced & a curfew goes into effect from 2100 to 0500 daily.
• General Order 1G specifies that Soldiers living in barracks are counted as a single household up to 10 people - but this only applies on installations.

To read the full translation of the Bavarian ordinance, General Order 1G, Annex A & new Tab 1 (helps explain the Bavarian ordinance) please visit the 7th Army Training Command COVID page at HTTPS://WWW.7ATC.ARMY.MIL/COVID-19/.

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Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance (Dec. 1, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

While there are no changes to the current Annex A, there is an update to the Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance that are in effect as of Dec. 1. Key updates and changes include:
• Gatherings are limited to 2 households and 5 people now (children under 14 do not count toward the 5).
• Masks are now required in additional places, to include outdoors. Recommend you wear a mask any time you are outside of your vehicle in a public setting.
• Busy stores may require you to wait to enter as additional limits on numbers of customers are now in place based on the size of the facility.
• Day trips to areas that are listed as high risk on RKI now require you to quarantine. This includes activities such as ski or non-essential shopping trips.
• Additional restrictions go into effect if a community breaks 200 and 300 per 100k. We will monitor for these restrictions and let you know if they affect our community.
• As always, full versions of documents can be found on the 7th ATC website: HTTPS://WWW.7ATC.ARMY.MIL/COVID-19/
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UPDATE: Vilseck Schools Information (Nov. 30, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

While there are no changes to the current Annex A, there is an update to the Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance that are in effect as of Dec. 1. Key updates and changes include:
• Gatherings are limited to 2 households and 5 people now (children under 14 do not count toward the 5).
• Masks are now required in additional places, to include outdoors. Recommend you wear a mask any time you are outside of your vehicle in a public setting.
• Busy stores may require you to wait to enter as additional limits on numbers of customers are now in place based on the size of the facility.
• Day trips to areas that are listed as high risk on RKI now require you to quarantine. This includes activities such as ski or non-essential shopping trips.
• Additional restrictions go into effect if a community breaks 200 and 300 per 100k. We will monitor for these restrictions and let you know if they affect our community.
• As always, full versions of documents can be found on the 7th ATC website: HTTPS://WWW.7ATC.ARMY.MIL/COVID-19/

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UPDATE: Vilseck Schools Information (Nov. 30, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• Vilseck High School will reopen tomorrow, Tuesday, Dec.1.
• The one classroom impacted at Vilseck Elementary School will remain closed through this week. The classroom will reopen on Monday, Dec. 7.

Thank you for your cooperation.

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UPDATE: Hickey DFAC Reopens (Nov. 30, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The CSM Lawrence T. Hickey Dining Facility has reopened!

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Vilseck Schools Closure Information (Nov. 29, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Vilseck High School and one classroom of Vilseck Elementary School will be closed Monday, Nov. 30, following COVID positives being identified. The schools will be cleaned, and close contacts will be tested during the closure period. More info will be posted here once decisions are made on the length of the closure. All close contacts have been identified.

To view COL Christopher Danbeck addressing the issue on Facebook Live, please click HERE ⚠.

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UPDATE: TB Burger King Reopens (Nov. 25, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Tower Barracks Burger King has reopened. Thank you for your patience.

For the original notice, please view the below announcement.

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Temporary TB Burger King Closure (Nov. 24, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Tower Barracks Burger King closed on Nov. 24 to allow for facility deep cleaning and testing of personnel, after a worker tested positive for COVID-19.

We will update this post when the facility reopens. Thank you for your cooperation.

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UPDATE: Temporary Hickey DFAC Closure (Nov. 19, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The CSM Lawrence T. Hickey Dining Facility is scheduled to reopen on Monday, Nov. 30.

Until the restaurant reopens, patrons should use Tower Barrack’s Ever Vigilant Café – Bldg. 101, located between the post office and main gym. During this time, ISOFAC feeding support will be supported by another facility. Thank you for your cooperation.

For the original notice, please view the below announcement.

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Temporary Hickey DFAC Closure (Nov. 16, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The CSM Lawrence T. Hickey Dining Facility has temporarily shut down until Thursday to allow for cleaning and testing of staff members, after a team member tested positive for COVID-19. Precise tracing measures are being conducted. There is no need to take any action unless you are contacted by tracing team members. As usual, continue to monitor for any symptoms and seek medical aid at an Acute Respiratory Clinic if you feel ill.

Until the restaurant reopens, patrons should use Tower Barrack’s Ever Vigilant Café – Bldg. 101, located between the post office and main gym. During this time, ISOFAC feeding support will be supported by another facility.

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Weiden Community Notice (Nov. 12, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Earlier this week (Nov. 9, 2020), the city of Weiden tightened its ordinance regarding wearing masks and consuming alcohol in the pedestrian zone. Below is the translation:

1) Masks must now be worn in the pedestrian zone | Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

2) Alcohol consumption is now forbidden in the pedestrian zone | Monday to Sunday, 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Alcohol consumption is generally forbidden 24/7 at:
• Weiden central bus station (ZOB)
• Parking lot "Naabwiesen"
• All city parks
• Outside and around Max-Reger-Halle

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Community Bank Notice (Nov. 12, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Effective starting Nov. 12, 2020, USAG Bavaria's Community Banks — Rose and Tower Barracks —are returning to normal business hours, and appointments will no longer be needed (unless opening a new account). Appointments that have already been committed to have priority.

Mon - Wed, Fri: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Thurs: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Rose Barracks CDC Notice (Nov. 7, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

A staff member of the Rose Barracks Child Development Center has tested positive for COVID-19. Due to preventive mitigation measures the center will only have to close the classroom affected. This will allow for cleaning and for testing of the staff members and children that had close contact. The parents of the children assigned to the affected classroom have been contacted by the CDC staff. More information will be provided to affected families as it becomes available.

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State of Bavaria Update (Oct. 31, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

ATTENTION: The German State of Bavaria released its 8th Ordinance containing new COVID restrictions that become effective on Monday, Nov. 2. For the duration of this ordinance group sizes are restricted to only 2 households AND 10 people. This rule applies everywhere, in public or private settings and is deliberately designed to severely restrict group sizes for a 28 day period (2 incubation cycles) in order to flatten the second wave of infection.

There is no change to Annex A at this time, but an update to Tab 1 and the translation of the Ordinance is available at the 7ATC COVID-19 WEBPAGE (https://www.7atc.army.mil/COVID-19/).

The Ordinance is a major change from previous rules on gatherings, because the rule must be applied in order. First, you can only gather with your own household and members of one other household. Second, that group cannot exceed 10 people. The stoplight chart previously used has been replaced by these rules.

Other off-post changes include prohibiting most sporting events, closure of recreational, cultural and leisure facilities, and closure of dining establishments with exception of pick-up or delivery. Alcohol sales at gas stations and other vending sites are prohibited between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Lodging is only allowed for essential reasons, in particular professional and business purposes.

Schools, day care and religious services are not affected by this ordinance as long as proper hygiene and mitigation plans are in place.

At this time, no changes to on post services or activities are directed. Please stay tuned to Facebook and the USAG Bavaria web page for updates and changes.

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Community Bank Notice (Oct. 30, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Community Bank Notice | Rose and Tower Barracks | Effective starting Nov. 3, 2020
Tower Barracks (Grafenwoehr) associates will provide banking services to the Rose Barracks (Vilseck) community, as select RB associates continue to quarantine. This will impact operations at both locations, until further notice.

Rose Barracks: Appointment Only
Tues / Wed / Thurs
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Tower Barracks: Appointment Only
Mon – Fri
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To schedule an appointment, either create an online banking request or call:
• Rose Barracks: DSN 476-2539 / CIV 096628791
• Tower Barracks: DSN 569-0699 / CIV 0964192240

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State of Bavaria Update (Oct. 17, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

ATTENTION: Bavaria published its new law on gatherings late Friday. It is effective immediately. As of this morning, Neustadt / Waldnaab county is RED. This means both Tower and Rose Barracks are to follow the rules for RED.

Attached is the summary of the law directly from the 7ATC Staff Judge Advocate:

GREEN. When your Landkreis or City is green, the rules are the same as they have been for the last 2 months. Groups are generally limited in public to 10 persons/2 households, but in a private home there is no limit other than the maximum that can socially distance, and for special events with hygiene plans and contact tracing regimes, the numbers can be up to 100 indoors and 200 outdoors.
ORANGE. Once the rate passes 35/100k, the 10 person/2 household rule applies to all social gatherings - no more distinction between public spaces and private homes, and no more "special event" exception.
RED. Once it passes 50/100k, the maximum drops to 5 persons/2 households. Again, no "special event" exception.

Additional rule changes are included as well: heightened mask wearing requirements in congested areas, limits on the hours when sale of alcohol and food will be permitted.

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Weiden City Update (Oct. 15, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Due to new Bavarian State restrictions, please follow the updated guidelines listed below. At this time, the change is in effect starting today (Oct. 15, 2020) through at least Oct. 25.

• Masks are required in all city centers. In Weiden, this is the pedestrian zone between Josef-Witt-Platz and Unteres Tor. (NOTE: This is the entire pedestrian zone).
• In the above area, alcohol consumption outside of the permitted catering establishments is prohibited.
• Alcohol is forbidden in public places after 10 p.m.
• Alcohol may not be sold at petrol stations after 10 p.m.
• The catering trade has a 10 p.m. curfew.
• In private spaces, gatherings are limited to two households or 5 people (max).

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Town Hall Highlights (Oct. 15, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Check out USAG Bavaria's Frequently Asked Questions, here:
https://go.usa.gov/xG7wY

• COVID-19 cases are on the rise in Europe. Be vigilant. Wash your hands, wear a mask, and keep your distance.
• In regards to COVID-19 testing and results, please refer to the Acute Respiratory Clinic, not the American Red Cross! We understand the confusion, as they are both the ARC.
• Halloween: Trick or Treating is off-limits for all members of the garrison. However, Units will be doing individual “Trunk or Treat” events that have been approved by the garrison with proper mitigation plans. Please reach out to your respective unit for more information.
• The Digital Garrison App, combines IMCOM, MWR, and AAFES information into one app. This app allows users to look up installation information and services, MWR events, and Exchange shopping all to one app, across all Army installations.
• The resiliency town hall will occur next Wednesday, Oct. 21.
• Next Friday, Oct. 23, will be a training holiday.
• DoDEA: There will be no school on Friday, Oct. 23 as DoDEA is having a teacher training holiday. DoDEA will provide families the opportunity to enroll in the full-time virtual school or to opt-in for in-person instruction for the second semester. This will again be a semester-long commitment. The enrollment period for the second semester opens today, Thursday, October 15th, and is scheduled to close on Friday, November 6th. Register for your preferred option using the DoDEA Aspen Family Portal. For more information, go to HTTPS://WWW.DODEA.EDU/RETURNTOSCHOOL.CFM
• Hohenfels, Garmisch and W.I.L.D. Boar outdoor rec centers are hosting ski and snowboard trips this winter seasons, go to your respective MWR website for more information.
• Army Family Team Building is hosting Level K “Military Knowledge” classes Oct. 28-29 at Rose Barracks ACS Bldg. 322.
• October is Domestic Violence Abuse Prevention Month. Purple Out! On Friday, Oct. 16, ACS is asking the community to post pictures on their Facebook page wearing purple shirts or ribbons along with the #UnitedToEndDV in efforts to bring awareness and an end to domestic violence. Every Tuesday in October, the Family Advocacy Program will be hosting a scavenger hunt.
• Grafenwoehr ACS is hosting an “It Takes Two” marriage seminar.
• Extended Postal holiday hours will go into effect Nov. 2 and last until Jan. 9.
• The Red Cross has resumed it’s adult and pediatric CPR, First Aid and AED classes. Email vilseck@redcross.org for course dates and more information.
• The Commissary is still offering the first hour of their business hours to “high risk” patrons.

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Neustadt/Waldnaab County Ordinance Update (Oct. 14, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Neustadt/Waldnaab County Commissioner's Office published an order establishing new COVID-19 regulations, effective today (Oct. 14, 2020). At this time, the change is in effect through a̲t̲ l̲e̲a̲s̲t̲ Oct. 20.

• The number of participants for private celebrations (held in public or rented rooms) is limited to 50 people max.
• It is strongly recommended to avoid holding celebrations (held in private rooms) with over 25 participants.
• Breaking this general decree is punishable with a fine of up to 25,000 (twenty-five thousand) euro.

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Town Hall Highlights (Sept. 30, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Check out USAG Bavaria's Frequently Asked Questions, here:
https://go.usa.gov/xG7wY

=======
TRAVEL
=======
• Please follow the GO1F and Annex A guidance for traveling.
Link to the order: https://go.usa.gov/xG7v3
Link to the annex: https://go.usa.gov/xG7vr
Link to the RKI risk countries and areas: https://bit.ly/3cOAw3I
• Please be aware of quarantine and COVID-19 testing requirements, when applicable.

Currently, non-dependent family members are not allowed to travel from the United States into the EU, due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, there are a few exceptions to include birth, medical reasons, death and other serious reasons. For more information on exceptions, visit the official German Government Page (https://bit.ly/2Gj6b1p⚠) and the U.S. Consulate Page (https://de.usembassy.gov/⚠).

*Disclaimer: Although exemptions are listed, it is still ultimately up to the airline and the EU/German government to decide if they will allow the family member to enter into Germany.

=======
EVENTS
=======
• The Crown Jewel Bazar will take place this weekend (Oct. 2 - 4, 2020) in the Multi-Purpose Center (Bldg. 134 in Rose Barracks).

==========
FLU SHOTS
==========
• Flu shots will be available around the end of October / beginning of November. Since the flu and COVID-19 have similar symptoms, it is very important to get the flu shot this year. Our at-risk population has priority. Please be pro-active, and call your care provider. To request that TRICARE cover your flu shot off-post, please contact your health provider.

================
GERMAN HOLIDAY
================
• This Saturday (October 3), Germany celebrates the fall of the Berlin Wall and the subsequent reunification of east and west with 'Tag der Deutschen Einheit' (German Unity Day). All stores will be closed, and because of the ongoing pandemic there will be little to no public events.
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Commander Friday Update (Sept. 18, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• There was an update to General Order 1F, Annex A.
• Follow all host nation laws in regards to groups.
• Bars, clubs, and hookah lounges are still off-limits.
• There are 10 countries that are authorized for travel outside of Germany. For that list, see the pinned graphic at the top of our page.
• Wash your hands, wear your mask and watch your distance.
• Avoid large crowds. If you are sick, stay at home. Call your health care provider before you go to your clinic if you are showing symptoms of COVID-19.
• Every Tuesday (from Sept. 22 to Oct. 27, 2020) the Tower Barracks Post Office will adjust their hours of service.

Tuesdays:
Mailroom Delivery Window: 1300-1745
USPS Finance: Closed
Official Mail Services: Closed
All other days are not impacted.

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Highlights from Garrison Town Hall (Sept. 2, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• MEDDEC Bavaria Commander, Col. Bryan, will be hosting a medical town hall next Tuesday, August 11 at 1800.
• In accordance with the 7ATC FRAGORD, service members AND family members within the USAG Bavaria footprint are currently restricted to travel within the State of Bavaria. Nuremberg is also currently off-limits. Please contact your chain of command if you have further questions.
• USAG Bavaria is going to keep every Garrison Service open to the fullest extent possible. As it becomes necessary, we will have to adjust and temporarily close services to clean and ensure everyone’s safety.
• Remember the three fundamentals: Wash your hands, wear a face-covering and keep your distance.
• If you feel sick, do NOT go into work. Contact your health care provider and chain of command. Tricare Nurse Advice Line (NAL), Germany: 0800-071-3516
Note: Beneficiaries can also contact the NAL by calling your clinic appointment line and choosing the option for the NAL, or by dialing the Universal International Free Phone from a cell phone in Europe: 00-800-4759-2330. Alternatively use the Nurse Advice Line Beneficiary Portal: https://mhsnurseadviceline.com/home. With the portal, beneficiaries have additional options to communicate (chat or video chat).
• If a service or family member in a unit becomes COVID positive, the unit or directorate will move into a 14 -day ROM** and initiate contact tracing.
• Any leave or pass outside of Bavaria must be approved by an O5 Battalion Commander. Leave and pass requests must be an approved country listed by GO1E.
• You may see Soldiers positioned outside of services and the front gates again, to ensure that proper preventative measures are being followed.
• The 2CR restrictions are a ROM** not a quarantine.
• On-post citations will now be issued to individuals in the case they are not complying with COVID-19 preventative measures (i.e. not wearing a mask inside the PX or not using the hand washing / sanitizing stations).
• Masks with valves are still unauthorized.
• The Vilseck Acute Respiratory Center is located in the back of the clinic, Bldg. 250. There are signs that will guide you.
** (ROM) Restriction of Movement: ROM is defined as limiting movement of an individual or group to prevent or diminish the transmission of a communicable disease, including limited ingress and egress to, from, or on a military installation; isolation; quarantine; and conditional release.

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USAG Bavaria Face-Mask Advisory (Aug. 7, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Starting today (Aug. 7, 2020), USAG Bavaria now prohibits individuals from wearing valve face coverings on installation, in areas were masks must be worn. According to CDC and TRICARE health officials, facial coverings with valves do not prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
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USAG Bavaria Community Advisory (Aug. 5, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

If you have concerns about a community member not following COVID-19 protection measures, ask them politely to follow General Order 1E.

Under General Military Authority, any NCO or Officer can conduct an on the spot correction. If you're a civilian and you see a SM doing something wrong, find a NCO or Officer and ask them to make the correction for you or contact the appropriate chain of command for uniformed personnel.If they still won't follow COVID-19 protection measures, notify your local military or host nation law enforcement personnel — your Directorate of Emergency Services.
As a community, let's all do our part and keep each other safe.

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Highlights from Garrison Town Hall (Aug. 3, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• MEDDEC Bavaria Commander, Col. Bryan, will be hosting a medical town hall next Tuesday, August 11 at 1800.
• USAG Bavaria Boss offers great opportunities for single and geo-bachelor soldiers. The next BOSS meeting is on August 12 at 1300, at WILD B.O.A.R.
• The USDA has become aware of U.S. service members stationed abroad receiving suspicious, unsolicited packages of seeds. Anyone receiving seeds in the mail that they did not order should dispose of them properly. According to the instructions in the news alert below, proper disposal includes: (1) Bake the seeds in the oven (2) Double bag the baked seeds (3) Place the double bagged and baked seeds in the garbage.
• Face coverings that have a valves or vents are not recommended for use, according to Tricare health officials.
• Town Halls will now be held every other Wednesday at 1800.
• Hand wash stations are shifting to hand sanitizing stations.
• Incoming DA Civilians are recommended to book lodging on-post. However, they are also authorized to book lodging off-post. The 14 day quarantine period upon arrival is required, regardless of on or off post lodging.
• DoDEA Standard Operating Procedure PDF: https://go.usa.gov/xfVGk
• General Order 1E is still in effect. See the order here: https://go.usa.gov/xfVvz
• Newcomers Page: https://go.usa.gov/xfVfX

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Notice for CYS Patrons: The Department of Defense made changes to Priorities for Child Care (effective Sept. 1, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Here is a letter (3 pages), from Lt. Gen. Douglas Gabram addressed to the impacted families, that provides information about the DoD changes to priorities for childcare and how these changes may affect you. The intent of these changes ensures military members receive priority access to childcare. The changes go into effect 1 September of this year.

We understand there may be concerns with the possibility of children being supplanted or displaced from on-post Child Development Centers, because of these changes. We also understand off-post child care options are limited, and that Army Fee Assistance is not available in Europe. HQ IMCOM leaders are aware of these concerns.

We await implementation guidance for these priority changes. Once we receive that guidance, we will notify customers who may be affected by these changes and work within our authorities to support them.

We ask for your patience and understanding as we await DoD's implementing guidance.
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July 28 - 10:43 a.m.: PX Closed for 24 hours
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• On Saturday, July 25, a Soldier that tested positive for COVID-19 visited the Grafenwoehr PX Starbucks. As per guidance from the Garriosn Commander, the PX mall (and all faciities located inside) will shut down today for 24 hours. The Tower Barracks Commissary will remain open. For more information watch the live-stream, here ⚠.

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Highlights from Garrison Town Hall (July 27, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• DoDEA virtual learning deadline has been extended to Thursday, July 30.
• Hand washing stations will slowly transition to hand sanitizer stations.
• Col. Danbeck explains child care in USAG Bavaria: Go to the 26-minute mark in the video.
• Tower Barracks and Rose Barracks Gym hours are extended, effective Aug. 1st.
Monday & Friday: 11:30 to 20:00
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 08:00 to 21:00 - closed 14:00 to 15:00 for cleaning
Saturday, Sunday & U.S. Holidays: 09:00 to 17:00 - closed 12:00 to 13:00 for cleaning.
• Garmisch Army lodging will open for visitors.

• General Order 1E is still in effect.
• This order is meant to protect you and the community around you.
• This order is meant to protect you and the community around you.
• You are not required to quarantine, if you are traveling to the authorized countries.
• No travel by commercial air or overnight ferry. Cars, trains, and buses are the only authorized modes of travel.
• If you are returning from a country that is not on General Order 1E country list, you will be required to quarantine for 14 days.
• If you are returning from a country that is not on the General Order 1E country list, you will be required to quarantine for 14 days in your home.
• Playgrounds, on- and off-post restaurants, and other amenities are not authorized for use during the quarantine period. Again, Stay inside your home for 14 days.
• Newcomers will now be required to sign a document that explains what quarantine means in USAG Bavaria and their required responsibilities.
• Working quarantine is canceled. Everyone PCS’ing into the USAG Bavaria footprint will be required to quarantine for 14 days.

__________
Effective July 21: General Order #1E
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• General Order #1D has been rescinded and replaced by General Order #1E, effective July 21.
• View the GO1E.

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Highlights from Garrison Town Hall (July 20, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

HIGHLIGHTS from July 20 Town Hall

• Thank you to Mr. Steven Sanchez, the DoDEA East Europe District Superintendent, for joining us.
• MWR is hosting a vehicle auction between July 25 to August 2. For more info, click here ⚠.
• MWR is hosting a Geocaching event. For more information, click here ⚠.
• USAG Bavaria is working on expanding space for more children inside of CDC.
• There will be a European PTA town hall with DoDEA representatives held on July 22, from 6 to 8 p.m. Event link, here ⚠.
• Education centers are open by appointment only.
• One Community, between Gate 2 (Rose Barracks) and Gate 4 (Tanzfleck) will be closed from 17 August to 18 September for necessary emergency repairs.

======
DoDEA
======
• DoDEA schools will start on August 24; view the link, here ⚠.
• DoDEA will offer two options to parents: Face-to-face education and virtual education.
• The virtual education option will be hosted by the DoDEA virtual school, not the local district.
• If parents want to enroll their children in the virtual education program, there is a registration period to do so from July 15 to July 28, and the enrolled children will be required to commit for an entire semester.
• Parents also have the option to home-school their children.
• Physical distancing will be required.
• Both teachers and students will be required to wear face-coverings when 6 feet physical distance cannot be maintained.
• All students, even those under 6, will be required to wear face-coverings when physical distancing cannot be maintained.
• Transportation will be operational. All students and drivers will be required to wear a face-covering when on the bus. If a student forgets a face-covering, the bus will have extra coverings.
• For students in need, speech therapy can be accomplished successfully through a virtual environment.
• Meals will be offered. Breakfast and lunch will be available. It will be in a grab and go format.
• Chromebooks can be rented for virtual learning needs.
• DoDEA will depend on parents to health screen their kids daily to ensure they are symptom-free.
• DoDEA has procedures in place to deal with students who develop symptoms during the school day.
• Custodians will sanitize high traffic areas inside the classrooms every evening.
• In between classes, teachers will disinfect high traffic areas.
• DoDEA has purchased and will provide all sanitation products and other PPE for educators and staff.
• DoDEA has been planning since May for the Aug 24 school year.
• DoDEA will send out a message on what sports will be offered. These only include sports where physical distancing could be maintained.

__________

DoDEA-Europe released messaging regarding the status of schools restarting for School Year 2020/21
DoDEA-Europe

A message to parents/families from DoDEA Europe Schools Director, Dr. Dell McMullen, regarding the status of schools to begin School Year 2020/21.

Link to official letter: https://www.dodea.edu/Europe/return-to-school.cfm

Key Points:
• DoDEA-Europe plans to fully open schools, this coming semester, to in-person instruction.
• We will have aligned our health and safety practices with CDC and DOD guidelines to best ensure the health and safety of our students and staff.
• We will provide a full-time virtual learning option for students and families with health vulnerabilities or who are concerned about returning to school.

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Highlights from Garrison Town Hall (July 13, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

HIGHLIGHTS from July 13 Town Hall

• For Soldiers impacted by WORKING QUARANTINE: USAG Bavaria no longer allows working quarantine, effective as of July 13, 2020. If you were previously approved for working quarantine, then it has been rescinded. Please finish the remainder of your 14-day quarantine within your assigned lodging or quarters. Playgrounds should not be used if you are on quarantine. Do the right thing and do your part if you are in a quarantine status.
• The USAG Bavaria quarantine period is not optional. Even if you get a negative test, you will still be required to quarantine.
• We have answers to PCS questions on moves during COVID-19.
• The 24/7 gym will not open yet. The main gym on post has not reached capacity yet.
• If a dependent who holds SOFA status would like to travel back to the United States, they may do so. However, they are at the mercy of the airlines. Upon re-entry back to Germany, they will be required to quarantine for 14 days.
• USAG Bavaria is taking a very conservative approach to COVID measures on-post. Masks will still be required inside of the fitness facilities.
• General Order 1D is still in effect. See the order here: https://go.usa.gov/xweJ8
• Ground travel to Austria, Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands is authorized.
• Air Travel is still unauthorized.
• DoDEA has released a statement on the way forward and the upcoming school year: https://www.dodea.edu/return-to-school.cfm
• Tower Barracks Vehicle registration is expanding their hours this week through Thursday, extending their hours from 1600 to 1800. Next week, they will open an hour early, and not be closed for lunch (0700-1600).
• USAG Bavaria Directorate of Emergency Services released a message about ETP Vehicle Shipping Plates, temporary license plate end extensions, and vehicle registration renewal special dates. For more information, click this link ⚠.
• Ensure you have all the correct forms. To see the checklist for vehicle registration, click this link.
• Face coverings while using public transport in Bavaria is still required.
• Shipping a package at USPS requires online customs forms. For more info, click this link ⚠.
• Service members who want to return to the states must go to the Chain of Command.
• On August 11, MEDDAC-B will be hosting a medical town hall.
• CDCs are open but have very limited capacity. USAG Bavaria is working on how to safely increase the capacity.
• Coach, Teach and Mentor incoming personnel on how we operate here.
• Police call your neighborhoods. Pick up trash if you see it.
• Outbound personnel, use the recycling center and bulk trash correctly, to ensure you are not leaving anything behind.
• Wash your hands, wear a face-covering and maintain physical distance.
• The German official Corona-Warn-App helps to determine whether we have had any contact with an infected person which could result in a risk of catching the virus. This way, we can interrupt chains of infection more quickly. The app is a service by the Federal Government. Download and use of the app are entirely voluntary. It is available as a free download in the App Store and from Google Play.
• We have a completely revamped Newcomers page. For more information, click this link.
• For information regarding garrison services and FAQs: https://go.usa.gov/xvHBQ
• Want to contact us? Email: usarmy.bavaria.id-europe.mbx.pao@mail.mil
__________

Highlights from 6 July Garrison Town Hall (July 6, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

HIGHLIGHTS from July 6 Town Hall
=================
GENERAL ORDER 1D
=================
• GO1D effective since June 22. View the order here: https://go.usa.gov/xweJ8
• Commercial Air is unauthorized for leisure travel.
• On a daily basis, there is an update for Installation Management Command, the status of an installation and if installations will be restricted for travel.
• Contractors and DA Civilians are highly encouraged to follow GO1D. Soldiers must follow GO1D.
=======
MEDICAL
=======
• MEDDAC-Bavaria is 3 weeks ahead of schedule and will soon transition to Phase 2 of reopening medical services. For more details on what Phase 2 will look like, visit your clinic's Facebook page. The Dental clinic is not yet scaling up services.
• The medical clinics will offer physicals for children before the DoDEA school year starts. Dates will be published, when individuals can get a physical.
======
TRAVEL
======
• ETP’s are still required for all official travel and PCS movements. You will need an ETP to PCS, unless both installations are considered “Green” by Army Headquarters.
• The EU is currently not allowing leisure travel from the United States to Germany and other EU countries.
========
SERVICES
========
• DeCA Commissaries require 100% ID checks. Visitors inside the commissary are not allowed at this time. This is a policy that comes from the DeCA headquarters.
• The teen center will not open, yet.
• The bus routes from Netzaberg to Grafenwoehr are not operating.
• The Tower Barracks Bowling Center is operational; however, breakfast is not being served at the cafe, currently. Please view this link for specific hours: https://bit.ly/2Z6STf6
• USAG Bavaria is working with the Legal team to open softball and indoor courts. We will provide more information, when it becomes available.
• DoDEA is planning to open schools on 24 August. This is subject to change.
• USAG Bavaria is doing very well fighting the spread of COVID. Remain vigilant.

Questions? Email us at usarmy.bavaria.imcom-europe.mbx.pao@mail.mil

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CYS Updates & Frequently Asked Questions
USAG Bavaria Family & MWR

Have questions? Your Child and Youth Services team has put together answers to your most frequently-asked questions about current CYS services at Tower Barracks, Rose Barracks and in Netzaberg.

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Highlights from 29 June Garrison Town Hall (June 29, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

HIGHLIGHTS from June 29 Town Hall
• There was garbage left at Diessfurt Lake over the weekend. Take care of the community and keep the area clean.
• Rose Barracks, Hohenfels, and Garmisch will be lighting off fireworks for the 4th of July. Please remember to continue physical distancing measures, wear face masks and do not gather in large groups.
==================
GENERAL ORDER 1D
==================
• GO1D effective since June 22. View the order here: https://go.usa.gov/xweJ8
• Commercial Air is unauthorized for leisure travel
• On a daily basis, there is an update for Installation Management Command and for the status of an installation, and if will be restricted for travel.
• CDCs are open to 1B and 1C personnel (Single soldier parents, dual-military parents) and some mission-critical individuals. In two weeks, USAG Bavaria will determine if it is possible to expand the capacity for childcare for more families.
========
MEDICAL
========
• MEDDAC-Bavaria is 3 weeks ahead of schedule and will soon transition to Phase 2 of reopening medical services. For more details on what Phase 2 will look like, visit your clinic's Facebook page.
• USAG Bavaria is closely aligned with Bavarian regulations. Follow both regulations, if you are a member of the USAG Bavaria community.
• Movers and maintenance employees should be wearing a face covers while in your home. It is the family’s obligation to sanitize the home once the employees leave.
• When a DA civilian arrives to the USAG Bavaria community, they will go into quarantine. The DA civilian will be offered to take a optional COVID test around the 4th or 5th day of their quarantine. If the test comes back negative, they will be offered to go into "working quarantine."
• Tricare offers translation services. If you are at an off-post medical facility and there is a language barrier, call: Commercial: +49-(0)06371-9464-2999, DSN: 314-590-2999.
=======
TRAVEL
=======
• ETP’s are still required for all official travel and PCS movements.
• If you have DoD orders and have SOFA status, you will be allowed to re-enter Germany from the states.

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Highlights from 22 June Garrison Town Hall (June 22, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

HIGHLIGHTS from June 22 Town Hall
=================
GENERAL ORDER 1D
=================
• General Order 1C has been rescinded.
• General Order 1D is now in effect.
• Click here to view the order.
• Specific International Travel is now authorized. International travel is only authorized through Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. The only authorized mode of transportation is ground travel. Air travel and cruise travel is not authorized.
• Installation visitors, who hold a U.S. passport, will be required to show that they have completed their quarantine period upon arrival to Germany.
• For information on SATO, click the link: https://bit.ly/3fQuJem
• Casinos on-post are still closed.
• Children, who were previously enrolled in Family Child Care Homes, will be able to return. However, once the contract ends the single and dual military individuals with children will take priority.
• Specific dates on when the Gyms and CDCs will open will be announced later today/tomorrow.
• 4th of July fireworks will be on Rose Barracks, Hohenfels and Edelweiss.
• Housing is now handling routine work orders.
• USAG Bavaria is the first Garrison in Europe to be a pilot for a housing work order mobile application. This will allow tenants to request housing work orders through an app on their mobile device. This app will be released in August.
• Take responsibility and practice good hand hygiene, wear a face covering and keep your distance.

========
MEDICAL
========
• If you are showing signs of COVID-19, self-isolate and call your primary health care provider.
• Curbside Pick-up for prescriptions can be picked up at the Grafenwoehr Clinic. Call the clinic to pick up your prescriptions curbside.
• Have a specific medical question? Send MEDDAC-Bavaria a message on Facebook.

===
PCS
===
• All U.S. Army installations are currently considered “red.” This means all Soldiers who are PCS’ing will require an ETP to process.
• Newcomers: Talk with your sponsors to be prepared for the required 14 day quarantine period.
• As of June 29, lodging on-post will only be available for incoming quarantining soldiers and families. If you are outgoing or require to stay in a hotel, please look for lodging options off-post.

__________

A message from SATO regarding Reservations (June 22, 2020)
CWT SatoTravel

Current travel challenges, such as flights cancellations and consistent schedule changes experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic in addition to an increase in available AMC flights, have a huge impact on our daily operations. Please allow an extended response time, as we work to ensure travel deadlines for all received requests are met.

NOTE: If applicable, please write "Emergency leave / Short
notice" in the subject line.

Please submit your travel requests via one of these methods:

Online reservation request form: https://www.cwtsatotravel.com
• Search for your responsible office
• Under manage your travel plans select "online request"
• Under "additional information or instructions" list the following:

Full names, dates of birth and passport # of all travelers
DoD ID of the Sponsor
Last ten digits and exp. date of the GTCC
For pets: breed, age, weight including kennel and kennel size or dimensions

Email:
GrafenwoehrCTO@cwtsato.com; HohenfelsCTO@cwtsato.com;
GarmischCTO@cwtsato.com;
vilseckcto@cwtsato.com

CWT SATO Emergency Support Center: ESCFAX@cwtsato.com or call Toll-free at 866-422-9428 or call Collect at 001-210-877-3357.

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Highlights from 15 June Garrison Town Hall (June15, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

HIGHLIGHTS from June 15 Town Hall

=====Travel=====
• Service members may only travel within Germany
• Dependents can travel to the United States. However, they are at the mercy of the airlines.
• There is still a 14-day quarantine period when arriving in Germany. There is not a date to when the quarantine period will be lifted.
• The SOFA status is the equivalent of an extended visa. It doesn’t mean SOFA stamp holders are the equivalent of EU residents.
• If you are PCSing and would like to know if you will be required to quarantine upon arrival to a gaining post in the U.S., reach out to your sponsor at the gaining unit for this information.
• Although the DoD has recognized certain states as “green,” no Army installation has. This means that you still require an ETP to PCS.
• Check the German Federal Foreign Office (in English) for the most up-to-date information on all things related to COVID-19 and foreign travel. Non-essential travel is still temporarily restricted when entering the EU (until 30 June 2020). As you make travel plans, please be aware that the government can extend this date of restricted travel if the rate of new coronavirus infection begin to rise. Caution-https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/⚠

=======SERVICE=======
• When the gyms open on-post, there will be specific guidelines: Gyms will be opening later in the morning so that they will remain open later in the day. There will be limited occupancy. Workouts will be limited to about an hour. Showers and saunas will not be operational. Once capacity is reached in the gym, patrons will have to wait outside until a slot becomes open.
• Under General Order 1C, Soldiers are not authorized to go to gyms off-post.
• CDCs should be open by the end of the month. You will get a one week notice prior to the opening of CDCs, if your child will be able to return. CDCs will only be able to service categories 1B and 1C (single and dual military parents), and a small number of mission-critical individuals. USAG Bavaria will look at how to increase their service to allow for more slots once the CDCs open.
• ID card checks still occur when entering the commissary.
• Transportation is working on getting SATO to be more responsive.
• The ID office has temporarily increased the age of when children are authorized to receive an ID card from 10 to 14 years old. USAG Bavaria has ensured the PONDS guards at the gates know that children under the age of 14 do not need an ID to gain access on-post.
• The USAG Bavaria Education Centers are still closed for most face to face services. However, they now offer some testing services. If you have specific questions, they are available by email usarmy.bavaria.id-europe.mbx.aces@mail.mil and phone.

=======MEDICAL=======
• MEDDAC-Bavaria is currently in Phase 1 of reopening services, with a focus on readiness. They will continue to scale up services in Phase 2, scheduled to start in July.
• If you have a referral for a procedure off-post that is set to expire between March and June, it will be extended 180 days.
• Thank you to all American Red Cross-USAG Bavaria Grafenwoehr & Vilseck and American Red Cross volunteers for the continued support.

Please feel free to contact us: usarmy.bavaria.id-europe.mbx.pao@mail.mil

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Highlights from 8 June Garrison Town Hall (June 8, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

HIGHLIGHTS from June 8 Town Hall
=============
General Order 1B
=============
• General Order 1B has been rescinded.
=============
General Order 1C
=============
• General Order 1C is now in effect.
• See the order HERE.
• Visitor sign-on is authorized.
• Mileage restriction has been lifted.
• Soldiers can travel anywhere in Germany.
• Soldiers cannot travel to different countries.
• Soldiers can now stay in hotels.
• Soldiers can now use indoor dining areas.
• Soldiers can use swimming pools.
• There is no more curfew.
• You can now have members of one other household in your POV with you, instead of just one other person.
• Soldiers cannot visit off-post bars, night clubs, dance clubs, movie theaters, spas, massage parlors, hookah lounges, gyms, or other physical fitness facilities.
• Wear a face-covering.
======
Services
======
• Gyms and CDCs anticipate to be open by the end of June with modifications.
• Gate 1 at Tower Barracks is now open for outbound traffic and foot traffic until 10 p.m. Effective Friday (June 12), Gate 1 will be open for outbound and foot traffic 24/7.
• USAG Bavaria CDCs will follow all DoD and German government restrictive guidelines.
• Softball is still unauthorized. Effective yesterday (June 8), The State of Bavaria allows 20 people to play sports together, instead of 5. USAG Bavaria will be approximately two weeks behind.
• USAG Bavaria anticipates bringing a modified seating area back to the food court in a week.
• The bowling alley is still closed.
• Soldiers can go to religious services.
• State Department is working on reopening its tourist passport processes. We will announce when they are able to process tourist passports.
• Bushes near the Grafenwoehr Freecycle center will be trimmed.
• If an establishment’s hand washing station is out, then please use the latrines to wash your hands.
• Garmisch walk-in gate will open June 15.
• Self Help at all locations is now open.
==========
Travel & PCS
==========
• Germany is not yet allowing tourist travel from the United States.
• The stop move has changed to a conditions-based stop move.
• There are quarantine requirements for Soldiers and Family members upon arriving to Germany.
• There will be no leave charges for quarantine.
• Starting June 29, lodging on-post will be dedicated to inbound PCS.
• The goal is to get those, who are inbound, to quarantine in the quarters they will be living in. This requires communication with your sponsor.
======
Medical
======
• Telehealth calls will continue after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The dental treatment facilities on-post is focusing on dental readiness and focusing on class III and IV personnel. The dental clinic anticipates that they will scale services back up starting in July.
==========
Focus Groups
==========
• Racism has no place in the Army or our Nation.
• There is a series of upcoming focus groups run by the Equal Opportunity and the Equal Employment Opportunity.
• The purpose of these focus groups is to give community members an opportunity to discuss community concerns based on COVID-19 restrictions, protests in CONUS, Equal Opportunity concerns and the community’s morale as a whole. Ask your chain of command when your focus group is.
• RSVP is required. The groups are limited to 15 participants.
• Contact the EO Advisor at CIV: 09641-70-526-3115 and
CELL: 0152-2442-6147.
• Focus Group times open to family members only:
• 9 June 2020 - 3 p.m. at Tower View Conference Center.
• 10 June 2020 - 3 p.m. at Rose Barracks Chapel.
• 11 June 2020 - 3 p.m. at Rose Barracks Chapel.

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Vilseck High School Seniors Graduate June 6 (June 8, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Students from Vilseck High School graduated on June 6, 2020, with hopes for their future amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Since we lost a third of our senior year to corona, I thought it’d be empowering for us to reclaim the word and make it our own,” said Vilseck High School Class President Hassanatou Balde. “C for committed, O for optimistic, R for resilient, O for open-hearted, N for noble and A for above any other class. We are the ‘Class of CORONA,’ and we are powerful." See the full article HERE⚠.

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Passport guidance set to curb delays, as Army heads into peak PCS season (June 5 2020)
Army News Service

Military families applying for official passports must submit their paperwork no earlier than 60 days, but no later than 45 days from their departure date, said a top travel official, as COVID-19 stop movements are lifted.
The new policy is in place to curtail potential holdups that military personnel, government civilians and families may experience with their PCS moves to international locations beyond the continental United States, or OCONUS.
Read up on more passport guidance HERE.

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Highlights from 1 June Garrison Town Hall (June 1, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

=========
SERVICES
=========
- There is no date for Child Care to resume yet.
- The State Department is processing and issuing no-fee and Official Passports. They are not yet accepting tourist passports. Click on the link more information: https://go.usa.gov/xwjnE
- Heart and Home will open Wednesday, June 3.
- BCSC Thrift Shop: Grafenwoehr will open Tuesday, June 9.
- The first hour of business for the commissary is for high-risk patrons.
- Reusable bags in the commissary are authorized.
- As restrictions lift, personal responsibility must increase. Wear a face covering. Maintain social distancing. Practice hand hygiene measures.
- USAG Bavaria is working to ensure Hand washing stations remain stocked with soap and water. In the case that the water or soap runs out, it is your obligation to use the latrine inside the establishment to wash your hands.
- Secondary screening and temperature checks will eventually become random for transactional workers.
- Edelweiss is opening on 15 June. Soldiers, however, are still currently restricted to 50 km.
- Auto Skills Centers are open. Click the link to see the flyer: https://go.usa.gov/xwjUc
- PX concessionaires will reopen soon. More to follow.
- Germany and other EU countries are still currently restricting foreign countries from visiting.
- Frankfurt Consulate Visa Immigration Unit is processing i130 active duty applications and conducting interviews. For more information, click the link: https://go.usa.gov/xwjyc
- If you have not been contacted for an HBB inspection, please contact the HBB office to schedule an inspection.
===
PCS
===
- DoD Stop move has changed from being a time-based stop to a conditions-based stop move. There are 2 overarching factors that contribute to travel. Click the link to see the memo: https://go.usa.gov/xwjyt
- In case you need to quarantine upon arriving at your new duty station, you would not need to arrive early to quarantine. You may check-in on your report date to the receiving unit and then go into quarantine.
=======
MEDICAL
=======
- Labor and Delivery tours at local nation hospitals are not currently occurring.
- For baby delivery in June, the Father may be able to be there the entire delivery process. The visitation restrictions after delivery allow for the father to visit for 2 hours per day.
- Acupuncture appointments are still not operating.
- Dental services started to scale up services. For the latest information, visit MEDDAC-Bavaria
- Do not wear a face shield. Wear a mouth-nose covering.
- For information on who should wear a face-covering, click the link: https://go.usa.gov/xwjnW
=============
General Order 1B
=============
- General Order 1B is still in effect.
- Bavaria is opening gyms on June 8th, with significant restrictions. USAG Bavaria will lag at least two weeks behind. Reminder: General Order 1B does not allow Soldiers to go to gyms. To see General Order 1B, click the link: https://go.usa.gov/xwjQn
- To see the most recent Bavarian Ordnance, click the link: https://go.usa.gov/xwjQr
- Soldiers may NOT use indoor seating at restaurants. There is no restrictions to Soldiers using outdoor seating at restaurants and beer gardens.
- Soldiers are still restricted to 50km.
- Visitor sign-ons are still restricted.
- For exceptions to General Order 1B, work through your chain of command and request the exception from the first O-5 or GS14 in your chain of command.

__________

Outdoor Recreation Centers, Auto Skills Centers, and Libraries reopens in Bavaria (June 1, 2020)
USAG Bavaria MWR

USAG Bavaria MWR has reopened their outoor recreation centers, auto skills centers, and libraries with limited services.

Libraries: Online orders are now available. Request your books online HERE.

Auto Skills Center: Now providing limited services.

Tower/Rose Barracks Value Added Tax (VAT) Office: Now open for walk-ins. Forms can also be ordered by e-mail or over the phone.

Tower/Rose Barracks Outdoor Recreation: Wild B.O.A.R. Outdoor Recreation: Limited services available include: rentals, bike maintenance, disc golf, boating/Stand up paddleboarding, fishing permits and shooting ranges. Services NOT currently available: pavilions, multi-purpose room, leisure travel, climbing hall, high ropes course and adventure activities.

Hohenfels Outdoor Recreation: Open with limited services.

Garmisch Outdoor Recreation: Collect, complete, and enter to win in the Army MWR Library Bike Bingo, open only to the Garmisch community.

MWR Take Out Options:

__________

PCSing out of Germany with a Vehicle (June 1, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

As soon as you receive PCS orders, immediately schedule your vehicle de-registration appointment. Due to COVID-19 limitations, the Vehicle Registration office is experiencing delays and highly encourages patrons to make appointments by e-mail.

Email usarmy.bavaria.id-europe.mbx.grafenwoehr-vehicle-registration@mail.mil or call DSN 314-475-6752 or +49(0)9641-83-6752. Appointments for all three sites (Graf/Vilseck, Garmisch and Hohenfels) are handled by the Tower Barracks Vehicle Registration office.

The office is not talking walk-in appointments.

__________

Highlights from 25 May Garrison Town Hall (May 25, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

========
SERVICES
========
- There is no date for Child Care to resume yet.
- If you are interested in becoming a Family Child Care (FCC) provider, call DSN 526-9030, CIV 09641-70-526-9030, or go to https://grafenwoehr.armymwr.com/programs/childcare for more information.
- You may use your reusable bags in the Commissary.
- Commissary Early Bird hours are paused. The first hour of business is still for high-risk personnel.
- Children 6 and older must wear a face covering. Children under 6 do not require a face covering.
- Playgrounds on and off-post are open. There are a few parks that are still closed on-post specifically for safety purposes.
- Heart and Home craft shop will be open soon. We will announce when this becomes available.
- Libraries are open for curbside checkout and drop-offs. They are not yet open for full service.
- The USO is working to open. There is not a date yet for reopening. We will announce when this becomes available.
- Gyms are still closed. We are working on mitigating the risks associated with the gym. We will announce when this becomes available.
- Outdoor fitness classes are being considered. We will announce when this becomes available.
- The motorcycle orientation training dates for Tower Barracks are April 21, May 19, June 23, July 21, Aug. 25, Sep. 22, Oct. 6. The motorcycle orientation training dates for Hohenfels are May 6, June 3, July 1, Aug. 5, Sept. 2 and Oct. 7.
- Hohenfels Gate 1 & 3 are open.
- You can make an appointment for Vehicle registration and driver licensing.
- Garage sales on-post are unauthorized.
- The State Department is now processing approximately 2,500 passports per week. Call the passport office to make an appointment.
- There is still a required quarantine period if you are returning to Germany from the U.S.
- For questions regarding orders and MPD, email usarmy.bavaria.imcom-europe.mbx.pao@mail.mil with your name, rank, unit, and question.
- There are no changes to the June 30 stop move.
===============
GENERAL ORDER 1B
===============
- General order 1B is still in effect.
- The 50km restriction still applies to Soldiers.
- The curfew for Soldiers in the barracks still applies.
- Visitor sign-in is still unauthorized. You can request an ETP through your chain of command.
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MEDICAL
=======
- MEDDAC-B health clinics now have in-house COVID testing capabilities.
- Health clinics will start phase 1 on June 8. PHA, medical readiness, well-child and well-women appointments, At-risk,and underlying condition appointments will expand. Acute and routine medical care will expand as well.
- Make an appointment for well-baby/women by calling your health clinic. They are now taking appointments.
- For updates regarding local hospitals, check out the MEDDAC-Bavaria facebook pinned post.
- VA appointments are still paused.
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SHOUT OUTS
===========
- Thank you to Alexandria Gallegos, a military spouse, who has created and distributed almost 1,000 face coverings to the community.
- Thank you to Dr. Burris for going above and beyond.

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Family member travel screening (FMTS): What is staying the same, and what is changing? (May 22, 2020)

Military Community and Family Policy

Service members and their families with assignments to OCONUS locations will soon benefit from standardized family member travel screening forms. With FMTS, all military families regardless of branch of service can be screened at any Military Treatment Facility.

Host nation medical facilities resume services (May 20, 2020)
MEDDAC-Bavaria Public Affairs

All host nation medical facilities have resumed normal services as of May 18, 2020. Host nation hospitals are updating their social media websites with the most current information. For information related to Amberg Klinikum, Klinik Hallerwiese Nuernberg and Cnopfsche Kinderklinik Nuernberg, Sulzbach-Rosenberg, and Weiden.

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Highlights from 18 May Garrison Town Hall (May 18, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• Take personal responsibility. Wash your hands, wear a face-covering and maintain social distance.
• USAG Bavaria will lag behind Bavaria in the lifting of restrictions.
• AAFES is aware of the extensions of ID cards.
• You can meet with ONE other family.
• Parents are responsible for children maintaining social distancing, when playing together.
• Volksfest is canceled.
• Stop Move is still in effect.
• The 4th of July planning has started. However, Germany still has a law against large gatherings until August 30.
• DA photos are still closed.
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SERVICES
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• Hohenfels Gate 3 will re-open within the week.
• Barbershops on-post are open as of today. Units have appointments for soldiers. To schedule an appointment, Soldiers must talk to their chain of command.
• Gyms are still closed. Bavaria has not opened gyms yet, and USAG Bavaria will lag behind them.
• Child Care is still closed. USAG Bavaria doesn’t have a plan to re-open the CDCs to regular operations at this point. The slots will be available by priority. Single civilian GS employees are priority 1E. Please note: The younger the child, the longer the wait for care (toddlers take precedence over pre-toddlers, and pre-toddlers take precedence over infants). Also, COVID-19 restrictions have reduced the number of children facilities can care for, and there is no indication when that will change. It could be a long while before a slot becomes available.
• USAG Bavaria has no update from the State Department on when they will begin issuing passports again.
• Chapels will reopen this Sunday. Check out your respective U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Chaplain pages for more information.
• Eggs at the commissary are no longer being rationed.
• WIC items, as well as hygiene items, will still be rationed at the PX and Commissaries.
• Auto Skills centers will be open within the week.
• VAT office is open through appointments. They will open for walk-in services, soon. Check out the service tracker page for the most up-to-date information. https://go.usa.gov/xvHBQ
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HBB
====
• Public Health Officials will start HBB inspections starting today, May 19.
• Once the HBB is approved by the health inspection, Col. Boyd will approve the HBB to reopen.
• If you never received an email regarding public health inspections, email usarmy.bavaria.id-europe.mbx.pao@mail.mil
=================
GENERAL ORDER 1B
=================
• General Order 1B is still in effect. https://go.usa.gov/xvusF
• Visitor sign-on is still unauthorized. However, you can request an ETP from an O-5 in your chain of command.
• Nothing in General Order 1B restricts Soldiers from outdoor seating at a Biergärten.
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TRAVEL
=======
• Civilians and Dependents on non-government funded travel can go to the U.S., or travel to any other country, without any sort of approval from their command. General Order 1B restricts Soldiers 50km from their homes. *Note: Some countries still have quarantine periods upon arrival, and you are at the mercy of the airline. Flights are still being canceled every day.*
• Civilians and Dependents no longer require a quarantine period, when returning to Germany from the UK or other EU countries.
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MEDICAL
========
• Appointments can be made by calling your local medical clinic.
• Within the first two weeks of June, MEDDAC-B will start to scale-up services.
• If you have issues making an appointment through the clinic, message the MEDDAC-Bavaria Facebook page and you will get taken care of.
• Physicals for enlistments or military schools are still occurring.
• Amberg Klinikum: No visitors policy, unless a doctor has requested a visitor to be there. If someone is giving birth, the father is allowed to be there.
• Sulzbach Rosenberg Klinikum: Visitor policy allows 1 person to visit, no children allowed.
• Weiden Klinikum:
In-Patient: Visitor policy allows 1 visitor per patient, for a maximum of 45 minutes. Children under the age of 7 are allowed to visit. Children older than 7 are not allowed.
Out-Patient: Visitor policy allows 1 visitor per patient; however, they highly recommend that if you do not need a visitor for medical reasons, do not bring a visitor.
Weiden Klinikum underground parking garages are temporarily closed. Use street parking.
• If a child is in a hospital, have one parent stay, not both.
• MEDDAC-B will continue to update the community weekly, with changes to hospital policies.
• COVID-19 Antibody tests are not available at this time.
• Certain clinics in MEDDAC-B will have in-house COVID-19 testing capabilities starting this week.
• Dental clinics are still closed for appointments, but they are still open for sick-call and emergencies.
• Physical therapy is still occurring. Check out our service tracker for the most up-to-date information.
• Personnel picking up Soldiers from the airport do not require quarantine, as long as health-protective measures are followed.

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USAG Bavaria MWR serves up socially distanced fun at the drive-in (May 18, 2020)
Susan Melnyk, Visual Information Specialist of USAG Bavaria MWR

USAG Bavaria MWR offered their first drive-in movie experience on May 15 and 16, to an overwhelming community response.“Both nights booked up within minutes of us opening registration, and we received more than 200 emails for the 80 spots available, before we were able to close the registration page,” said Tierra Maull, theatre specialist at the Grafenwoehr Performing Arts Center and part of the dedicated team that worked to make this event possible. “It was incredible!”

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Local students discuss their experiences with digital learning during COVID-19 (May 15, 2020)
By Dr. Bill Hunter, Stella Martinelli of Grafenwoehr Elementary School, and Vivian Velez of Vilseck High School

When DoDEA Europe closed schools indefinitely due to COVID-19, many teachers, parents and students did not know what to expect. “It was like that one dream that kids have about not going back to school,” said Brett Faraason, an eighth grader at Netzaberg Middle School. “I thought that this would mean waking up late and hanging out with my family.”

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Highlights from 11 May Garrison Town Hall (May 11, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• Maintain personal responsibility. Continue social distancing, proper hygiene habits and wear a mask when necessary.
• Visitor sign-in is still unauthorized. The first O-5 in your chain of command can approve an exception to policy (ETP) to allow for visitors to enter the installation.
• MPD is cutting over 100 orders per day.
• German American Volksfest and Oktoberfest will not occur this year.
• Until June 30, there is still an obligation for any government-funded travel to have an ETP to come into Germany.
• Upon arrival to Germany, the 14 day quarantine period remains in effect.
• If your child goes to a German daycare and they reopen services, your child can go back to daycare.
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MEDICAL
=======
• If you require a coronavirus test for an inpatient stay in a host nation medical facility, make an appointment with your local medical clinic and bring your referral if you are a Tri-Care recipient. If you are not a Tri-Care recipient, talk to your primary care provider to get a coronavirus test.
• If you need immunizations or shots, call your local clinic. The medical clinic will direct you to the correct time and place to assist you.
• MEDDAC-B will continue to analyze coronavirus cases in Germany and Bavaria.
• Dental clinics are still providing sick call and emergency services. Once they start scaling-up services, we will announce it to the public.
• Secondary screenings will continue. MEDDAC-B will continue to examine and improve the way they administer secondary screenings.
=================
GENERAL ORDER 1B
=================
• General Order 1B (G.O. 1B) remains in effect.
• G.O. 1B is punitive for Soldiers. DA Civilians and dependents are highly encouraged to follow G.O. 1B.
• The 50km travel restriction is a G.O. 1B restriction, not a German or Bavarian rule. There is no km restriction to civilians and dependents. However, it is highly encouraged that civilians and dependents follow G.O. 1B.
• Soldiers can request a mileage pass through their chain of command.
• Dependents can travel without any pass. Mileage passes are only for Soldiers who request to travel further than 50km from their homes.
• Soldiers do not need an ETP to go to military clothing sales on a different post.
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SERVICES
========
• Gates 1 and 3 at Hohenfels are closed. The garrison is currently examining the processes associated with screening at Gates 1 and 3.
• DFACs are still only for Soldiers.
• Automated car washes on-post will reopen this week.
• Target and Skeet ranges, Automotive Skills Center in Vilseck, Wild BOAR and religious services are closed. They are working through mitigation and hygiene measures to open soon. We will announce to the public once these services open.
• We will coordinate with the transportation office and SATO, regarding how to get amended orders to them safely.
• Over the next two weeks, USAG Bavaria anticipates opening more concessions. Concessions will be open on alternating days throughout the week.
• CDCs are still closed.

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General Order 1B Goes Into Effect May 8. (May 8, 2020)
7th Army Training Command

The Bavarian government announced further lifting of restrictions May 4 to slowly re-open portions of the economy and to lift restrictions on public life. General Order 1A has therefore been rescinded and replaced by General Order #1B, effective May 8. These changes are the direct result of the discipline and restraint shown by all, and the effective governance of Bavarian authorities. COVID-19 remains a dangerous disease and remains present in Bavaria, and it is imperative that all continue to exercise good judgment and strictly adhere to both Army and Bavarian rules.

Our primary goal continues to be protecting the health and welfare of our Soldiers, families, civilians and neighbors. As such, the U.S. Army community in Bavaria should understand we will deliberately lag behind our host-nation in lifting protective measures, and may not mirror all measures.
Consistent with the Bavarian ordinance and enforceable by German authorities, community members will still continue to prioritize reducing physical and social contact with other people, except those in the same household or one other household, to the maximum amount possible. This includes maintaining six feet of physical distancing and wearing cloth face coverings both on and off the installation.

Concurrent with Bavaria’s elimination of its “credible reason” restriction, the single-use pass system in place for Soldiers residing in the barracks is rescinded. Soldiers who live on or off post may leave post without a pass.

The previous restriction to 20km from an on- or an off-post residence is raised to 50km, within Germany. Unit chains of command may impose tighter limits or place specific locations off-limits; mileage passes are authorized beyond 50-km but must be signed by a Lieutenant Colonel or above.
The following businesses and facilities remain off-limits to community members on and off-post:
• Indoor seating areas of Restaurants
• Bars, Night Clubs, Dance Clubs and Hookah Bars
• Pools, Spas/Gyms and Fitness Studios, Massage Parlors, Hotels and Movie Theaters
Outdoor recreation activities, including non-contact sports such as golf or tennis, are allowed with family members and one additional non-household member. Team sports or any sport involving a group larger than 5 are still prohibited.

Personnel may not travel with more than one non-family member / household member in a personal vehicle, unless car-pooling to a work or duty location. This is consistent with Bavaria’s prohibitions on gatherings and maintaining social distancing.

Although Bavaria has outlined plans for schools and child-care facilities to re-open, Department of Defense Educational Activity schools will remain virtual for the rest of the school year. Child Development Centers remain closed at this time. Read the order HERE.

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Service Credit Union to Begin Reinstating Walk-In Services in Germany (May 5, 2020)
Service Credit Union

Service Credit Union remains committed to the health and safety of its employees and members. With utmost caution in mind, the credit union has made the decision to reopen a number of its overseas locations to walk-in service, beginning Monday May 11, 2020.

On May 11, Service Credit Union will move away from its temporary appointment-only system, which was instituted in March to help maintain social distancing guidelines, to full service at the following branches: KMCC, Kleber, Baumholder, Ansbach, Grafenwoehr, Vilseck and Hohenfels. On May 12, the Garmisch branch (normally closed on Mondays) will also reopen to foot traffic.

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Highlights from Bavarian State Cabinet Meeting (May 5, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

On May 5, 2020, the State of Bavaria announced that its initial coronavirus restrictions are scheduled to change. These new restrictions will roll out over the month, as indicated below.

On May 6
• Entire families can now meet in-person, even if you are not living in the same household. However, physical distancing of 1.5 meters must be maintained.
• Playgrounds will reopen.

On May 9
• Nursing home residents can receive visits from other family members. However, physical distancing rules must be maintained, masks must be worn and limited visiting hours will be enforced.

On May 11
• Child care facilities will open only for children with special education, children with handicapped needs and for children with single parents.
• Home daycare will be allowed, but only five children may be cared for at a time.
• Up to three families may organize their own child-care concepts.
• Stores of all sizes – including malls and department stores – can reopen, but stores are still required to follow the 20 square-meters/customer rule.
• Cosmetic stores can reopen.
• Zoos, museums and galleries can open.
• Contactless, single-sport activities can resume outdoors. Allowed indoors include: golf, track and field, sailing, rowing and equestrianism. Team and group sports are still not allowed.

On May 18
• Outdoor gastronomy services – such as beer gardens – may open under the same conditions are restaurants (see May 25), but these establishments must close at 8 p.m.

On May 25
• Kindergarten classes will reopen.
• Restaurants can open dine-in services, if social distance is maintained. These rules include: every second table remains empty, family tables are set up, hygiene concepts for cleaning dishes and utensils is implemented, all personnel must wear masks, and guests must wear masks both when entering the establishment and when using restrooms. Guests do not have to wear masks at the table. Restaurants must close at 10 p.m.

On May 30
• Hotels can reopen to a limited capacity. The establishment’s wellness areas, saunas and similar facilities must remain closed.

On May 31
• The goal is to have 50 percent of children back in child care facilities.
• The goal is to have 50 percent of students back in school. Until May 30, parents can continue to home-school their children.

Lastly, these new rules are subject to change, as seen fit by each region’s county commissioner. They will continue to observe case numbers in local situations.

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Highlights from 4 May Garrison Town Hall (May 5, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• Tower and Rose Barracks: TKS, Enterprise, H&R Block and the Optical centers are open Monday, Wednesday and Friday by appointment only.
•Refrain from socializing/ loitering in the central areas of the PX.
• Unless you have an exception to policy letter (ETP) signed by a general officer or senior executive service (SES), you still fall under the DoD stop move lasting until June 30 and cannot go on government-funded travel. This includes the early return of dependents, PCS and any other government-funded travel.
• Dependents and civilians CAN travel back to the states, meaning that they – themselves – purchase the tickets, BUT they are at the mercy of the airlines and may have their flights canceled. Travelers must also be traveling for an essential purpose. You can expect an obligated quarantine depending on the state you return to. If you were to come back to Germany, there is also a required quarantine period upon arrival.
• The Federal Minister of Interior urges citizens not to travel, unless it is absolutely essential. If you have a SOFA stamped U.S. passport, you may travel back to the U.S.
• Each chain of command is required to conduct their own risk assessment based on the training they are doing, and ensure there are mitigation processes and safety measures put in place to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID.
• We are going to lag behind Bavaria restriction lifts by 2 weeks.
• Two soldiers are allowed to carpool to work. They are not authorized to carpool for any other reason than going to work.
• Ticket books for the gym will still be honored, when the gym reopens.
• ACS can coordinate via email with those ETS’ing out any lending closet items you need to return.
• Library: All Army MWR Libraries due dates for checked out materials will be extended until 30 June. Any library patron accounts expiring soon will also be extended until 30 June, in order to preserve access to Online Resources. If you wish to set up an account, or need help with an existing account, please contact them by e-mail.
• PCS Q&A Live Town Hall, hosted by USEUR, is at 6 p.m. tonight, May 5.
• FCC providers follow the same guidelines and procedures as the CDC. They will not be opened yet.
• Courses of action for recognizing high school seniors are being discussed. We will ensure that there is a ceremony that is worthy of our graduating seniors.
• DoDEA schools, worldwide, have closed their physical schools for the rest of the year.
• Students, who are eligible for accelerated withdrawal, are still required to be on their parent/parents PCS orders or ETS orders.
• Patriot Express is still running.
• Visitor sign-on is still not authorized.
• Thank you to all American Red Cross blood drive donators.
MEDICAL
• Off-post referrals are good for 180 days. They may be extended on a case-by-case basis, and MEDDAC-B is looking into each referral.
• Elective Veterinarian services are still on hold.
• If you are symptomatic and go through the secondary screening at the gate, you will be tested for COVID.
• Wearing a face cover is mandatory inside all stores and establishments, both on and off the post. Ensure that the nose and mouth are covered.
• Wash your mask frequently (every day).
• Tri-Care beneficiaries can still make appointments for non-COVID related illnesses – simply call your local clinic.
• If you are not a Tri-Care beneficiary, you will have to go through your private insurance/host nation.
• Keep social distancing measures, and continue strict hygiene procedures.
HBB
• HBB’s should expect a letter that will describe the obligations and requirements that will allow businesses to reopen.
• Protective medicine will validate the protection plan for your HBB.
• HBB is now taking applications via email.

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DoDEA Europe Schools closed for remainder of year (May 1, 2020)
DoDEA Europe Schools Public Affairs Office

SEMBACH, GERMANY — In direct and close coordination with senior military partners, the decision was made to keep school buildings closed to students for the remainder of the 2019/2020 school year and to maintain digital teaching and learning in all DoDEA schools across Europe.
While our schools will remain closed, our teachers and administrators will continue to work diligently to maintain our digital learning programs in order to ensure continuity of education for our amazing students. These programs continue to evolve and differ slightly for each community and school, but the goal is the same: provide “Excellence in Education for Every Student, Every Day, Everywhere”.
We know that this decision is disappointing to our staff, students and families alike.
The COVID 19 pandemic continues to affect every community across the European theater. While some host nations are making decisions to slowly open up aspects of their economies, given the relatively short amount of time remaining in the current school year, DoDEA and military leadership agree that this was the prudent decision for our schools. The health and safety or our staff, students and communities is our highest priority.
This is obviously an incredibly challenging, frustrating and concerning time for all of us.
Watching our teachers, students and communities come together to ensure continuity of education for our military-connected students in these challenging circumstances has been incredibly inspiring. Please continue to work diligently and cohesively to ensure that we build upon our successes to this point
Communication, moving forward, will be critical to ensuring the maintenance and evolution of these digital learning programs. Please feel free to communicate all needs and concerns related to these programs to your teachers and principals. This type of feedback is important to the education process.
Thank you again for your continued support and diligence.
For more information regarding DoDEA’s response to COVID 19, go HERE.

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General Order 1A Modification (April 29, 2020)
7th Army Training Command

The Bavarian government announced a gradual process to slowly re-open portions of their economy and incremental changes in restrictions on public life. Commensurately there are modifications to General Order 1A for the U.S. Army community in Bavaria and on U.S. Army installations in Bavaria starting April 30.
Consistent with the Bavarian ordinance, there still must be a credible reason for visiting stores and essential services like groceries, medical, veterinary, banking, auto maintenance, etc. Previously, only a few types of business were allowed to remain open; Bavaria has gradually opened other types of business. All community members will still reduce all physical and social contact with other people except those family members in the same house, to the minimum amount possible.
Social and physical distancing of at least six feet between non-family members is still strictly enforced by both Bavarian police and on installations.
Sports and outdoors activities previously only allowed with family members may now be conducted with one additional non-household member.
When visiting stores or service establishments on or off our installations, protective face coverings will be worn.
All personnel are still limited to staying within 20 km from the base or an off-post residence. Those community members living off-base are permitted to visit stores and facilities off-post opened by the Bavarian government for essential errands, as are those personnel living in accompanied on-post housing, without a pass.
Personnel living in on-post unaccompanied housing (barracks) will now be allowed to travel off base for those purposes as well, but they will require a single-use pass signed by the Soldier’s O-5 commander or supervisor. This includes exercising parental rights for children living off-base, visiting neighboring military installations and host nation essential businesses and services. These passes will be valid until 2100 on the specified date.
Vehicle traffic leaving installations will be randomly screened. All personnel stopped for screening will be checked for cloth face coverings. Personnel living in the barracks will also be checked for a valid pass from their unit. Soldiers living in the barracks will not be allowed to travel off-post with multiple Soldiers in a single personal vehicle.
Additional random screenings of inbound traffic will also increase as a mitigation.
For more information on which services on U.S. Army installations in Bavaria are open, please check the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach and Bavaria websites, respectively.
Information on DODEA schools and child-care facilities will be made public once announced.

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Highlights from 27 April Garrison Town Hall (April 28, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

• DoD announced the stop move will extend to June 30. This date will be reevaluated every two weeks.
• General Order 1A issued March 20 is still in effect.
• USAG Personnel must abide by General Order 1A.
• Civilians and dependents are strongly recommended to follow General order 1A.
• Spouses and dependents do not need a memo to go off-post or between Tower and Rose Barracks.
• In the State of Bavaria, you are allowed to EXERCISE by yourself, with your household, OR with one person external to your household (two people maximum. You must maintain proper social distance).
• You can take your baby/toddler with you in a stroller while exercising with another person external to your household as long as your child stays in the stroller.
• Off-post automatic car washes are authorized for people who need it due to POV shipment.
• While Bavaria recognizes “life partners” as fiancés, boyfriends, and girlfriends, the Army only recognizes dependents who are registered with DEERS. This is a DoD-wide regulation.
• Local leaves are still authorized. The travel restrictions for DoD service members include personal leave outside the local area.
• Housing office and POV pick-up is open for appointments.
• Child care is still closed until further notice. For those that are dual-military, one service member should stay home and care for the child. Talk to your chain of command.
• Visitor sign-ins are still not authorized.
• PX concessionaires are still closed until further notice.
• The State Department is currently only issuing emergency passports to those that are in life or death situations.

Face-coverings
• Children who are 5 years or under do not require face-coverings.
• You must wear a face-covering while on public transportation and in stores.
• You don’t need to wear a face-covering while exercising with another person, but you must maintain social distancing.
• You can wear a nose-mouth covering while driving. Keep the top of your face ( eyes and forehead) uncovered.

Home-Based Business (HBB)
• HBB are allowed to be open, with the exceptions of those expressly forbidden by the Bavarian Ordinance
• As we get closer to when salons and barbershops will be open, we will give you information as we get it.

Medical
• Physical therapy is offered in-person for those who have neuromuscular skeletal injuries within the past 30 days and evaluations for new injuries or conditions. Contact the medical clinic to make an appointment
• Physical therapy is offered virtually for those who have chronic neuromuscular skeletal injuries. Contact the medical clinic to make an appointment
• Well-baby check-ups will be prioritized once the clinic starts to scale up appointments.
• For face-coverings to be effective, the covering needs to cover the nose and the mouth. Be very diligent about touching your face while wearing a face-covering.
• MEDDAC-Bavaria will have COVID-19 testing capabilities within the next two weeks
• Dental facilities are doing emergency treatment only.
• Tele-appointments are now available on Tricare-online.
• Secure messaging is available to email with your primary care provider.

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REMINDER for changes to State of Bavaria (April 26, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Effective 27 April 2020:

• Face-coverings are mandatory when using public transportation and while shopping in any Bavarian establishment. The fine is 150 euros if you don't wear mouth and nose covering. Nose and mouth coverings are not mandatory in cars. If you wear a nose and mouth covering in cars please consider not to cover the full face (face still needs to be recognizable).

• Shops with less than 800 square meters are allowed to open.
• Car dealer and bicycle shops are allowed to open.
• Two people can meet outdoors for exercise or a walk even if they are not part of one household (two people maximum).
• Ongoing restrictions - You still need a credible reason to go from one place to another (to drive to work or shopping are good reasons).

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American Red Cross hosts free virtual COVID-19 coping course (April 25, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The uncertainty associated with a global health crisis like COVID-19 challenges everyone's ability to cope. The American Red Cross is hosting a free virtual course that can help you to build resilience and support yourself and others through this crisis by reviewing basic principles of providing psychological first aid, including how to recognize and manage stress in yourself and in others and how to lend support to family members, friends and coworkers during and following the COVID-19 outbreak. Sign-up for the free, self-paced course HERE.

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DOD allows remote extension of ID cards (April 22, 2020)
Department of Defense

The Defense Department has changed the process to allow service members and civilians to temporarily extend the life of their cards as the nation battles the COVID-19 pandemic. These extended cards that appear expired on their face can continue to be used for access to benefits, including health care and entry to installations and buildings and to systems and networks.

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Bavarian Ordinance on Protective Measures (April 21, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

On April 16, followed by an April 20 ADDITION, Bavaria's President Minister Dr. Markus Soeder issued Bavaria’s second ordinance to the March 20 decree on protective measures. Earlier protective measures remain in place with a few notable exceptions. Among them include the opening of do-it-yourself stores and garden centers beginning April 20. Also beginning April 20, people living off-post can exercise with one other person outside of the household. Service members residing at USAG Ansbach and USAG Bavaria are reminded that they remain subject to the GENERAL ORDER issued by the senior responsible officer, Brig. Gen. Christopher Norrie of 7th Army Training Command. The April 16 ordinance is available in English here.

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Update to Travel Restrictions (April 20, 2020)
Department of Defense

Effective today, Secretary Esper approved an extension to the stop move order through June 30 to aid in the further prevention of the spread of COVID-19. While the Department acknowledges that this order will have great impact on our service members and their families who are looking to proceed with their lives, the rapidly changing environment has created significant risks to service members, as the DOD continues personnel movements and travel. The decision was made in order to protect U.S. personnel and preserve the operational readiness of our global force. The Department now has procedures in place to allow for additional waivers and the resumption of travel for several categories of travelers that were previously suspended, including deployments.

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U.S. Army Europe vehicle registration extended (April 20, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Effective immediately, all privately owned vehicles registered with the U.S. Army Europe Registry of Motor Vehicles that expire on or before April 20, 2020, are automatically extended for 60 days. As an example, if your POV registration expires April 20, you now have until June 20 to renew. The USAREUR RMV is currently extending a second batch of registrations with expiration dates between April 21-May 20, 2020.

Vehicle Registration Offices at USAG Bavaria remain open by appointment only in Grafenwoehr/Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch. To schedule an appointment, call DSN 475-6752, CIV 09641-83-6752 or email usarmy.bavaria.id-europe.mbx.grafenwoehr-vehicle-registration@mail.mil. New permanent registration forms will not be issued until normal operations resume. The AAFES ESSO fuel card program will continue to honor expired, hard copy registration forms. All expiring registrations, to include temporary and non-operational, are considered valid until normal operations resume — except for cancellations due to lack of insurance coverage.

For special or emergency circumstances, call your local garrison vehicle registration office.

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AAFES Exchange offers curbside assistance at Tower and Rose Barracks (April 17, 2020)

Army & Air Force Exchange Service

Curbside pickup is available at the Exchange at Rose Barracks and Tower Barracks. As an authorized military shopper with installation access, visit shopmyexchange.com, find what you need and choose the pick up at store option. When the order is ready, the store will call and offer the curbside pickup option. At the store, park in the space with the sign, pictured here, call the phone number on the sign and the order is delivered to your vehicle.

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Special leave accrual for service members (April 17, 2020)
Department of Defense

In recognition of the impact of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)'s response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) on service members' ability to take leave and properly manage their leave balances, effective March 11 , 2020, through September 30, 2020, members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force performing active service during the effective period, are authorized to accumulate annual leave in excess of 60 days (not to exceed 120 days) as shown on the end of month September 2020 Leave and Earnings Statement. Such members are further authorized to retain such unused leave until the end of Fiscal Year 2023 (i.e., September 30, 2023).

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Off-post food options (April 16, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

For those living off-post, we've compiled a list of off-post food options in the USAG Bavaria footprint. Soldiers are reminded that—in accordance with 7th ATC Commander's GENERAL ORDER #1—Soldiers residing on-post at U.S. Army installations within the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach and U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria footprint are restricted from leaving the installation. And in accordance with the state of BAVARIA'S RESTRICTIONS, restaurants can only offer take-out or delivery options. Food delivery does not have access on-post during this time.

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REMINDER: DoDEA and AAFES offer free and reduced meal program during school closure (April 16, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

AAFES and DoDEA schools at Netzaberg, Vilseck and Hohenfels provide grab-and-go meals to students during school closures as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. This program is for families that are recipients of the Free and Reduced Lunch program and for those that would like to pay for this service through their AAFES lunch account. Pick up for the meals will be available between 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. each day at Vilseck and Hohenfels Elementary Schools and between 8:30 and 11:30 a.m. each day at Netzaberg Middle School. This applies to both breakfast and lunch. If a family is using both services, they will “grab-and-go” both meals at the same time.

To sign-up to participate, email your school using the email address below. Sign-up for meals can be done daily, or for a week at a time. The requests must be sent to the mailbox by 3 p.m. the school day prior to pick up. The request must include the student’s name, school he or she attends, and current grade level. Your PIN number must be used at pick-up.

Netzaberg Elementary & Middle School: MEALS.NEES@DODEA.EDU
Vilseck Elementary School: MEALS.VLES@DODEA.EDU
Hohenfels Elementary School: STRIBBLINGS@AAFES.COM

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TRICARE copayments waived for COVID-19 tests on or after March 18 (April 16, 2020)
TRICARE

TRICARE beneficiaries can ask to have TRICARE copayments waived for certain coronavirus (COVID-19) testing and office visits related to the testing. This applies to tests and visits on or after March 18. TRICARE coronavirus updates at www.tricare.mil/coronavirus. More...

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Community Bank offers customers option to schedule appointments online (April 15, 2020)
DoD Community Bank

Community Banks at USAG Bavaria remain open for walk-in during normal operating hours. Banks in Germany are permitted to remain open. Customers, however, can now schedule an appointment online. Community Bank started an appointment link at www.dodcommunitybank.com. Customers do not have to do anything special. Just click the ‘Request Appointment’ on the website, complete the form and select your installation.

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Commissaries impose short-term limits (April 15, 2020)
Installation Management Command-Europe

Increased demands for certain items over the Easter weekend—such as eggs, coupled with a partial delay of some inbound chilled containers over the past few days at the port in Antwerp—will result in some short-term shortages of certain chilled items (juice, cheese, lunch meat, eggs, milk) in commissaries across Europe. To mitigate the short-term shortage, for at least the next few days, the Defense Commissary Agency is placing a two-carton limit on egg purchases until inbound products have leveled out shortages across the theater.

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UPDATE: COVID-19 and its impact on healthcare in Europe (April 15, 2020)
Regional Health Command Europe

Regional Health Command Europe medical and dental facilities include clinics at USAG Bavaria. As Regional Health Command Europe medical treatment facilities have had to adjust their operations to meet the increased demand for acute care and COVID-19 screening operations, patients can expect some changes to the availability of routine appointments. More on dental and medical appointments, lab services, prescriptions and behavioral health.

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DOD continues global military operations even as it battles COVID-19 (April 14, 2020)
Department of Defense News

Even as the Defense Department supports the whole-of-government response to the COVID-19 pandemic, it continues its vital national security missions, Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper said. Esper and Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, held a Pentagon news conference today on DOD's support for the nation's COVID-19 response. Esper also gave examples of some of the security missions DOD has undertaken, including:

Conducting coutnerterrorism missions in Africa, the Middle East and Afghanistan
Conducting freedom of navigation operations around the world
Monitoring North Korean weapons tests
Improving the U.S. defensive posture in Iraq
Escorting Russian bombers out of U.S. airspace
Deterring Iran's aggressive behavior
Working with Afghan security forces and Operation Resolute Support partners in Afghanistan
Continuing enhanced counternarcotics operations in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility
Working with NATO allies in Europe
Continuing to defend U.S. interests in space.

And last month, the Space Force launched its first satellite into orbit, Esper noted.

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Commissary implements new hours for their higher risk patrons. (April 13, 2020)
U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria Public Affairs

Effective April 13th, DeCA commissaries in Bavaria will implement new hours for their higher risk patrons. The first buisness hour will be reserved for individuals who fall under the higher risk category. "Higher risk" is defined as pregnant women, adults over 60, and people of any age who have underlying health conditions to include diabetes, asthma, lung disease, and weakened immune systems. After the first hour of each shopping day, the commissaries will be open to the general USAG Bavaria community.

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USAA members with an auto insurance policy will receive a 20% credit on two months of premiums in the coming weeks. (April 11, 2020)
USAA

Many service members and families use USAA for their financial services and insurance. Every member with an auto insurance policy in effect as of March 31, 2020, will receive a 20% credit on two months of premiums in the coming weeks, according to USAA. This payment is a result of data showing members are driving less due to stay-at-home and shelter-in-place guidance. Members will automatically receive a credit applied to their bill. They do not need to call, and no additional action is required.

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Help available for Soldiers locked into lease agreements (April 10, 2020)
Army News Service

Soldiers and families locked into untenable lease agreements due to the COVID-19 stop-movement order can access legal support to reduce their financial obligation. Under the Service Member Civil Relief Act, or SCRA, Soldiers can terminate their lease agreement with permanent-change-of-station or deployment orders that exceed 90 days, according to Army G-1 officials.

Some families might have entered a new lease agreement prior to a PCS, said Melissa Halsey, legal assistance policy division chief for the Office of the Judge Advocate General. When the stop-movement order nullified a Soldier's PCS orders, they may now be forced to maintain multiple households, and the recourse is unclear.

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7th Army Training Command guidance on face coverings (April 8, 2020)
7th Army Training Command Public Affairs

On April 5th, the Secretary of Defense issued guidance requiring the Department of Defense to implement recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control regarding the wear of cloth face coverings in public settings where physical distancing measures are difficult to maintain.

Not later than April 9th, all military personnel, DOD Civilian employees, family members, DoD Contractors, and all other individuals on DoD installations within Bavaria will wear cloth face covering in places where maintaining the recommended six feet of physical distance in public spaces is difficult.

These include shopping facilities and services on installations such as post offices and dining facilities. It also includes work areas such as shared offices and hallways. For Soldiers conducting training, this includes combat vehicles and range towers, as well as screening operations.

Face masks will not be provided. Soldiers will adhere to the standard issued in the 7th ATC Operations Order, using an OCP-issued t-shirt. Civilians are encouraged to use the CDC guidelines for constructing a cloth face covering. Cloth coverings should not include profanity or other inappropriate language or graphics.

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Waiver granted for expired Motorcycle Safety Foundation training cards (April 7, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center released a memorandum titled "Army Traffic Safety Training Program (ATSTP) and Motorcycle Safety Foundation Cards Impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic." Key points include:

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the suspension of the Army Traffic Safety Training Program (ATSTP) for motorcycle riders and attendance to the local hazards briefings such as the Intermediate Drivers (IDC) and the Remedial Drivers Training (RDT) courses.
ATSTP training has been suspended by local commanders.
All Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) training cards that have expired or will expire due to the cancellation of training should be considered valid, and riders allowed to continue to ride, through Oct. 1, 2020, or until their next level of training can be scheduled.
The extension applies only to those Soldiers who have completed the Basic Rider Course.
This is not a waiver of initial training requirements of the BRC.
New riders must complete the training before riding. This means new riders must wait until training is available through the ATSTP or they can attend a civilian course if available in their area.

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Army guidance for filing PCS and TDY travel claims (April 3, 2020)
Army Publishing Directorate

Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and stop movement travel restrictions, Soldiers and family members may experience delays and travel hardships. The All Army Activities message (ALARACT 029/2020) offers guidance for filing a permanent change of station (PCS) and temporary duty (TDY) travel claims for Soldiers impacted by the coronavirus. Unit commanders can issue a DD Form 1610 request and authorization for TDY travel of DOD personnel for any period of directed delay that a Soldier incurred during their PCS or TDY due to COVID-19 stop movement. The message also provides Soldiers and leaders with COVID-19 pay and allowances flowcharts to help identify assistance available and how to process travel claims. More… (CAC required)

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7th ATC commander addresses readiness, training and military duties (April 3, 2020)
7th Army Training Command

One of the most common questions we’ve heard since we, and frankly most of the world, have started implementing social distancing and self-isolation measures has been, why am I still training or performing my military duties? Our number one priority remains readiness, balanced with protecting our force and families. We’ve reduced and modified our training wherever we can, explains Brig. Gen. Christopher Norrie, commander of 7th Army Training Command and senior responsible officer (SRO) of USAG Bavaria and USAG Ansbach.

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TKS customer information update (April 3, 2020)
TKS

Due to the current COVID-19 situation, all TKS shops will be closed as of March 19 until further notice. The COVID-19 pandemic is an evolving situation that will require everyone’s cooperation and will to work together in reducing its spread and impact. And although the pandemic is impacting the way in which we conduct our personal, social, and professional lives, one thing will remain constant. And that is our steadfast commitment in providing you and the entire military community with our full range of telecommunications products and services – now and throughout this time of difficulty.

The TKS customer service is available 24/7. Call the TKS customer service hotline at 0631-3522-499 or email service@tkscable.com.
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AAFES sets limits on select items (April 2, 2020)
AAFES

Because of increased demand and to ensure that everyone has equal access to essential items, quantity limits on select items has been implemented at all AAFES facilities. These products are limited to 1 per person. Items identified include hand sanitizers, face masks, disposable gloves, rubbing alcohol, thermometers, paper towels, toilet paper, bleach, and disinfecting wipes and cleaners.

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Commissaries set limits on select items (April 2, 2020)
Defense Commissary Agency

Because of increased demand and to ensure that everyone has equal access to essential items, quantity limits on select items has been implemented at all USAG Bavaria Commissaries. These products are limited to 1 per person. Items identified include antibacterial gels, disposable gloves, disinfectant wipes, disinfectant cleaners, rubbing alcohol, bleach, toilet paper and tissues.

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Off-post food options (April 2, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

For those living off-post, we've compiled a list of off-post food options in the USAG Bavaria footprint. Soldiers are reminded that—in accordance with 7th ATC Commander's General Order #1—Soldiers residing on-post at U.S. Army installations within the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach and U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria footprint are restricted from leaving the installation. And in accordance with the state of Bavaria's restrictions⚠, restaurants can only offer take-out or delivery options. Food delivery does not have access on-post during this time.

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Red Cross seeks volunteers (April 1, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Red Cross

There are more than 50 volunteers throughout Europe who have stepped forward over the last several days to answer the American Red Cross call for volunteers, willing to contribute to their critical needs at military health clinics throughout Europe. There is still plenty of availability and the need for more. Our local military treatment facilities have requested RNs, LPNs, and MSAs. If you're an experienced healthcare professional who can help, please contact grafenwoehr@redcross.org, vilseck@redcross.org, or hohenfels@redcross.org, and they will see if your skills and experience can be matched with a need in your community.
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Coronavirus leadership checklist (April 1, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Walter Reed Army Institute for Research released this checklist to guide you and your teams when dealing with the coronavirus. Checklist...
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VA Overseas Military Services Coordinators can assist at USAG Bavaria (April 1, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Despite coronavirus office closures at USAG Bavaria, our VA Overseas Military Services Coordinators are here to continue help with the following:

Benefits Delivery at Discharge
Disability Compensation/Pension
Education & Training (GI Bill)
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VRE)
Life Insurance
VA Home Loans
Health Care/Foreign Medical Program
Dependent and Survivor Benefits

Email questions or set up a phone appointment at OMSCGER3.VBAVACO@VA.GOV. Visit our Soldier-for Life (SFL-TAP) page.

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Stay at home for 2nd Cavalry Regiment Soldiers (March 31, 2020)
2nd Cavalry Regiment Public Affairs

Beginning March 31, Soldiers of the 2d Cavalry Regiment will remain home through April 13. Dependents are encouraged to do the same. No changes to essential services, unit installation support, and deployments. Please watch this video⚠ for further details and communicate with your chain of command if you have questions.

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Protection measures extended in state of Bavaria to April 19 (March 30, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Bavaria's Minister President Markus Söder delivered an update today to the people of Bavaria. Here is an initial translation of what he said.

All restrictions remain in effect until April 19, 2020. Read the Bavaria decree outlining the restrictions in English at https://go.usa.gov/xv3Ey.
The coronavirus situation remains serious. There is no reason for false hope or discussion about any exit strategies.
Most people infected with the coronavirus in Germany reside in Bavaria and Baden-Wuerttemberg.
Most affected counties in Bavaria are at Tirschenreuth and Rosenheim — both will receive additional medical support.
While protective measures in place are working, there is always a 14-day time lapse between taking measures and their effects. Thanks to measures we are only seeing a doubling of infections currently every 5 days (before the measures were taken, numbers doubled every 2.8 days).
Protective measures are necessary and must be extended. There will be a mid-April assessment based on the extension.
Do not relax protective measures. Continue practicing social-distancing. Our goal is to stop the spread of the coronavirus and prevent death.
This is our test. We must live up to the challenge. We will prevail. The Bavarian government stands steadfast to overcome the challenges.
German article⚠

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Follow Bavaria restrictions when off-post; fines issued (March 30, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

USAG Bavaria and the state of Bavaria enforce protection measures to decrease the spread of the coronavirus. But we need your help. The state of Bavaria's restrictions are outlined in the March 20 general decree⚠. Failure to comply with the decree off-post can result in fines imposed by German law enforcement. A list of fines is listed here⚠. As guests living in Bavaria, we are subject to the same regulations as host nation citizens. The decree explains specifically valid reasons for leaving home.

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Temporary changes to retention, promotion, as COVID-19 persists (March 29, 2020)
Army News Service

U.S. Army leaders announced new reenlistment and promotion policies that will last until Sept. 30, as the coronavirus pandemic continues to change how the military operates. The initiatives include short-term reenlistment opportunities, virtual promotion boards, and halting certain qualifications that are all intended to “protect the force and preserve readiness.”

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Commissaries installing plexiglass panels in checkout lanes (March 28, 2020)
DeCA news release

Military commissaries worldwide are installing plexiglass sneeze shields in all regular checkout lanes to add extra protection for customers and cashiers during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.

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Customs Pink Card (German Form 0217) automatic extension in response to COVID-19 (March 27, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

U.S. Army Customs Agency – Europe (USACA-E) has coordinated with the German Federal Customs Directorate (Generalzolldirektion, Gz/File reference number: Z 6301 – 2020.00015 – DV.A.2) to authorize the automatic extension of expired/ expiring German Forms 0217 (Pink Cards) through June 30, 2020. Read the complete MEMO.

The USAG Bavaria postmaster is extending all Retiree Box R receptacle applications (AE Form 600-8-3C-R), specifically affecting applicants that received notice of expiration as far back as January 2020, and are in the range of expiring between now and July 30, 2020. No retirees need to worry about coming in and renewing their application during the COVID-19 crisis and travel restrictions.

In addition, no mail will be returned to sender unclaimed for failure to pick up within 30 days of receipt per DOD regulations. All mail will be held until further notice. We will provide more pertinent information as we near extension date 30 July 2020.

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USAG Bavaria's Military Personnel Division releases guidance for Soldiers (March 27, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

USAG Bavaria's Military Personnel Division (MPD) released information on alternate place of duty, pay, allowances, benefits, basic allowance for subsistence (BAS), housing allwoances, family separation housing allowance (FSH), family separation allowance (FSA), isolation allowance, hardship duty pay, restriction of movement, leave, per diem, PCS travel interruptions, TDY travel interruptions, temporary living expense and temporary lodging allowance (TLA). Click here.
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Personnel and housing services by appointment only at Tower Barracks Bldg. 244 (March 27, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Beginning Monday, March 30, service at Tower Barracks, Bldg. 244, will transition to appointment only to further reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

Visit the Grafenwoehr/Vilseck Service Tracker for the complete list of services affected by the coronavirus protection measures.

ID Card/DEERS Office: Service is limited to CAC pin resets, lost/stolen IDs, IDs expiring within the next 60 days, out-processing for ETS/retirement/chapter/PCS with ETP, and DEERS enrollment/updates. To schedule an appointment, please call DSN 526-4410/4411/4412, CIV 09641-70-526-4410/4411/4412. Please do not bring children with you to the appointment. If you have no other alternative, you must control your children or service can be denied.
Passport Office: Service is limited to passport pick-up, SOFA card issuance, and life/death emergency cases. To schedule an appointment or for questions, please email: usarmy.bavaria.imcom-europe.mbx.dhr-mpd-passports@mail.mil. Please do not bring children with you to the appointment. If you have no other alternative, you must control your children or service can be denied.
In/Out-Processing: Service is limited to out-processing for ETS, retirement, chapters and SRO ETP for PCS. Any new arrivals will receive an in-processing checklist and will be allowed to in-process individual agencies. ITC classes are currently cancelled. Out-processing checklists will be emailed to unit S1s. To schedule an appointment for final out, please call DSN 526-4479, CIV 09641-70-526-4479. Please do not bring children with you to the appointment. If you have no other alternative, you must control your children or service can be denied.
Transition Center: Service is provided to ETS, retirement, medical, UQR, and chapters. Units are asked to only proceed with chapter cases if truly necessary as flights out of country are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. To schedule an appointment please email william.a.hess.ctr@mail.mil, quran.m.rich.ctr@mail.mil, or ambar.s.yenz.ctr@mail.mil or call DSN 526-4458/4459/4456, CIV 09641-70-526-4458/4459/4456. Please do not bring children with you to the appointment. If you have no other alternative, you must control your children or service can be denied.
Housing Service Office: DPW Housing will service customers by Appointment Only. Call DSN 526-4347, CIV 09641-70-526-4347. Do not to bring children. Calls for appointments will be accepted Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. Closed on German and U.S. Holidays.

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U.S. Army Europe vehicle registration extended (March 26, 2020)
U.S. Army Europe Public Affairs

Effective March 23, all privately owned vehicles registered with the U.S. Army Europe Registry of Motor Vehicles that expire within the next 30 days are automatically extended for 60 days.

As an example, if your POV registration expires March 27, you now have until May 27 to renew.

The U.S. Army Europe Registry of Motor Vehicles in Sembach is closed due to the COVID-19 situation. Vehicle Registration Offices at USAG Bavaria remain open by appointment only in GRAFENWOEHR/VILSECK, Hohenfels and Garmisch. New permanent registration forms will not be issued until normal operations resume.

Your local Military Police can verify registration information if required by host nation police, such as during a traffic stop.

The Army and Air Forces Exchange Services ESSO fuel card program will continue to honor expired, hard copy registration forms.

All expiring registrations, to include temporary and non-operational, are considered valid until normal operations resume - except for cancellations due to lack of insurance coverage.

For special or emergency circumstances, call your local garrison vehicle registration office.

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Understanding Health Protection Condition (HPCON) Levels (March 26, 2020)
Army Public Health Center

The Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 6200.03 “Public Health Emergency Management Within the DoD,” and supplements, provides military commanders with policy applicable to the COVID-19 outbreak. Commanders review and update the health protection condition (HPCON) based on the risk level in the local community and in cooperation with local, state, or host nation guidance.

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Medical, dental elective procedures will be postponed 60 days due to COVID-19 (March 26, 2020)
Military Health System

According to the Military Health Service, beginning March 31, 2020, all elective surgeries, invasive procedures and dental procedures at military medical & dental treatment facilities will be postponed for 60 days so critical medical resources can go where they’re needed most. The policy applies to all beneficiaries: active-duty service members and their families, retirees, and Reserve and National Guard service members on active duty or a delayed effective date active-duty order.

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AAFES facilities reduce store hours to combat COVID-19 (March 25, 2020)
AAFES news release

Effective March 28-April 12, AAFES facilities will reduce hours to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

Additionally, the following facilities will alter normal operating hours:

Tower Barracks Main Exchange open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Tower Barracks Food Court closes at 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday and Sunday at 6 p.m.
Tower Barracks Express open Monday-Sunday, 5 a.m.-10 p.m.
Netzaberg Express open from Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Rose Barracks Furniture Store open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Rose Barracks Food Court open Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Rose Barracks Express open Monday – Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., Friday – Saturday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Sunday 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Rose Barracks Military Clothing Store open Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and closed Saturday and Sunday.
Garmisch Gas Station open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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Service-specific guidance on exceptions to household goods (March 25, 2020)
U.S. Transportation Command

U.S. Transportation command provided Personal Property Offices an advisory on March 18, 2020, with guidance on servicing personal property shipments and advising customers on procedures to seek exception-to-policy within their respective Service.

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Change in passport services operations (March 25, 2020)
U.S. Department of State

Due to public health measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, effective March 20, 2020, we are only able to offer service for customers with a qualified life-or-death emergency and who need a passport for immediate international travel within 72 hours.

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Army makes exceptions to enlisted promotion policy during COVID-19 outbreak (March 25, 2020)
Army News Service

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Army has initiated several policy exceptions that will impact enlisted promotion cycles scheduled until the end of this fiscal year.

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Home-Based Businesses subject to Bavarian restrictions amid COVID-19 (March 24, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Home Based Businesses (HBBs) are NOT exempt from the restrictions in the Bavaria General Decree. If your HBB requires physical interaction with your customers — such as barbers and hairstylists, massage therapists or make-up artists — you are subject to the Bavaria General Decree and U.S. Forces installation policies regarding social distancing measures related to coronavirus (COVID-19). Be advised that you could be fined up to €25,000 from the German government and adverse action could be taken by the U.S. Army for violating these polices (such as a revocation of your authority to operate a HHB). Read an English translation of the Bavaria Decree here.

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Coronavirus pandemic affects local farmers markets (March 24, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the Bavarian government's regulations regarding social distancing and movement, cities are reviewing their local market activities. Following is an overview:

Weiden: Farmers market held every Wednesday and Saturday around the Old Town Hall is canceled until further notice.
Grafenwoehr: Farmers market on Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., remains open. Customers are asked to adhere to social distancing rules.
Amberg: The farmers market on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., remains open
Parsberg: Farmers market on Fridays, 1-6 p.m., remains open.
Garmisch: The farmers market on Fridays in the pedestrian zone will be held again starting March 27. It is open from 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
Partenkirchen: The farmers market on Thursdays has moved to the parking lot in front of the town hall. It is open from 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

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USAG Bavaria adjusts some services following the 4-day weekend (March 23, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria installations at Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch continue to implement protective measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Beginning March 24, some services will be readjusted based on current staffing and command guidance to protect the force.

Major changes include the reopening of the AAFES Main Exchanges at all installations. Exchanges reopen to reduce overcrowding at the commissaries.

AAFES Military Clothing Stores reopen, as well as Launderettes and Cleaners/Alterations (open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays).

Food courts at the Exchange open for take-out only. Food delivery service opens to on-post delivery only.

Post offices (outgoing mail) and Community Mail Rooms (mail pick-up) will also reopen.

Emergency response services provided by military police and fire departments remain in operation.

Installation access remains restricted at all locations. DOD ID cardholders will not sign-in guests. Food delivery will not have access on-post during this time. Only taxis dropping off customers will have installation access (no empty taxis on-post).

Employees should continue to consult with their supervisors. Telework and select leave flexibilities are authorized based at the discretion of the supervisor.

Preventive measures are unique to each installation based on available installation resources, staffing, population sizes and risk factors.

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Air Mobility Command temporarily suspends most Space-A travel due to COVID-19 (March 23, 2020)
Air Mobility Command Public Affairs

Air Mobility Command temporarily suspended most Space-Available travel aboard AMC and contracted aircraft, except for certain Category I, IV, and VI travel, effective March 21 in order to limit COVID-19’s spread and its impact on the force.

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SHARP Advocacy services continue during COVID-19 response (March 23, 2020)
Kelly Thornborrow, USAG Bavaria SHARP Victim Advocate

In a time of uncertainty, one thing is certain: Your local Sexual Harassment/Assault Prevention and Response (SHARP) Program team is here to support you.

The SHARP program is here for you and committed to providing response and advocacy support.

SHARP support is available 24/7 across the entire USAG Bavaria/7th ATC footprint.

An on-call member of the SHARP Team can be reached by calling the Bavaria SHARP Hotline at DSN 569-4567, CIV 09641-70-569-4567.

The DoD Safe Helpline can also be reached at DSN 537-7233, CIV 0611-143-537-SAFE (7233), by using the DoD Safe Helpline App, or through safehelpline.org.

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U.S. Army Europe RMV extends POV registration deadlines (March 23, 2020)
U.S. Army Europe

The U.S. Army Europe Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has extended by 60 days the permanent registrations of Privately Owned Vehicles (POV) expiring within the next thirty days, effective immediately.

As an example, if the POV permanent registration is scheduled to expire on March 27, RMV has updated their computer system to show your new expiration date to be May 27. While the extension is automatic, new permanent registration forms will not be provided to the customers until normal operations resume. The local Military Police desks can verify the owner's POV registration if required, for example, at a German Police traffic stop.

The AAFES ESSO fuel card officials have been made aware of this situation and will continue to honor expired, hard copy registration forms.

Additionally, all expiring registrations, to include temporary and non-operational, have been extended until further notice. Until RMV is updated, ALL vehicle registrations should be considered valid except cancellations due to lack of insurance coverage.

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Army Medicine Europe Virtual Medical Townhall March 25 (March 23, 2020)
Army News Service

Regional Health Command Europe Commander Col. Andre Pippen and CSM Matthew Baller host a virtual town hall at 7 p.m. March 25 to provide the latest coronavirus information from the medical community.

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AEFES to provide grab-and-go meals to students during coronavirus pandemic (March 23, 2020)
Army & Air Force Exchange Service

With schools in Europe closed during the coronavirus pandemic, AAFES will begin providing grab-and-go breakfasts and lunches for students beginning March 23.

From 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., families can stop by one of the centralized locations for the grab-and-go meals. Students will need to have their school meal card available to receive the meal.

The following schools in Germany will participate in the grab-and-go meal program:

Baumholder Smith Elementary School
Landstuhl Elementary School
Ramstein Elementary School
Vogelweh Elementary School
Kaiserslautern High School
Sembach Elementary School
Ansbach Elementary School
Stuttgart High School
Patch Middle School
Robinson Barracks School
Netzarberg Elementary and Middle School (enter through Netzaberg Middle School)
Vilseck Elementary School
Hohenfels Elementary School
Aukum Elementary School
Wiesbaden Elementary School

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School Liasion Note: To sign-up to participate, email your school using the email address below. Sign-up for meals can be done daily, or for a week at a time. The requests MUST be sent to the mailbox by 3 p.m. the school day PRIOR to pick up. The request MUST include the student’s name, school he or she attends, and current grade level. Your PIN number must be used at pick-up.

Netzaberg Elementary & Middle School: Meals.NEES@dodea.edu
Vilseck Elementary School: Meals.VLES@dodea.edu
Hohenfels Elementary School: stribblings@aafes.com

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Service reduced at Army clinics in Bavaria (March 22, 2020)

U.S. Army Medical Department Activity Bavaria (MEDDAC-Bavaria)

Beginning tomorrow, March 23, 2020, MEDDAC-Bavaria clinics in Ansbach, Grafenwoehr, Hohenfels and Vilseck will have reduction in services, until further notice, so that we can better respond to the COVID-19 health needs of our community.

The following services will be closed or have a change in services:

Army Wellness Center closed.
Audiology closed.
Behavioral Health (no group therapy, no face to face appointments; virtual appointments where applicable – however, do call or walk in to the clinic if you need to be seen urgently)
Education and Developmental Intervention Services (EDIS) – (all routine appointments to be converted to virtual/ telehealth/TELECON; no more home visits).
Lab (remains open in support of acute care appointments and medication refills only).
Nutrition closed.
Occupational Therapy closed.
Optometry (acute care ONLY)
Physical Therapy closed.
Pharmacy (remains open in support of acute care appointments and medication refills only)
Primary Care (acute care ONLY; routine appointments such as CYS physicals, well woman exams, etc.)
Substance Use Disorder Clinical Care (SUDCC) – will be open for acute needs ONLY.
X-Ray (remains open in support of acute care appointments and medication refills only)

We still encourage the continued scheduling of well-child exams and major depressive disorder exams.

We will continue to keep you informed of further updates and changes as they happened in these difficult times. Please do remember to practice social distancing and to wash your hands frequently.

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CID encourages vigilance to prevent COVID-19 cyber scams (March 22, 2020)
U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command

SCAM ALERT: Be aware of increased risk in coronavirus scam methods used by cybercriminals, according to the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command (CID). Below is a list of websites that have recently shown signs of malicious behavior detected by anti-virus software:

coronavirusstatus.space
coronavirus-map.com
blogcoronacl.canalcero.digital
coronavirus.zone
coronavirus-realtime.com
coronavirus.app
bgvfr.coronavirusaware.xyz
coronavirusaware.xyz

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Soldiers on PCS orders can now request to stay extra year at duty station (March 22, 2020)
Army News Service

Soldiers prepping for a PCS move can now request to stay at their current duty station for up to a year, as the U.S. Army adapts how it moves people during the coronavirus crisis.

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Tax day extended from April 15 to July 15 (March 22, 2020)
Internal Revenue Service

The IRS is moving Tax Day from April 15 to July 15. All taxpayers and businesses will have this additional time to file and make payments without interest or penalties.

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Service Credit Union closes but continues service (March 21, 2020)
Service Credit Union

The health and safety of our members is our first priority as we navigate concerns about the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). We are here to serve you and we want to share information with you about how we continue to operate safely and effectively.

In an abundance of caution, Service Credit Union branches will be closed to the general public. Banking service will still be provided by phone and email during normal business hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Most transactions can easily be handled this way. Appointments can be made to meet with our Member Service Representatives for any transactions that may require a branch visit. Please visit us at servicecu.org/appointment to select a time to address your banking needs. You may also contact your nearest branch directly by phone or email.

ATMs will remain fully functioning at all times.

Service Credit Union offers a variety of ways to access your accounts and manage your money from the comfort of your home or workplace, 24/7.

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DoDEA Breakfast and Lunch Program During School Closure (March 21, 2020)
Department of Defense Education Activity

This program is for families that are recipients of the Free and Reduced Lunch program and for those that would like to pay for this service through their AAFES lunch account.

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Netzaberg health screening checkpoint starting March 21 (March 21, 2020)
41st Field Artillery Brigade

As always, the health and safety of our Soldiers, civilians and family members is a primary concern. We will continue to do our part to prevent the further spread of the virus. Tower Barracks is implementing an additional measure to aid the State of Bavaria in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Starting March 21 at 8 a.m., Soldiers from Tower Barracks will implement a health checkpoint on Netzabergstraße just as you enter and exit the Netzaberg Community from St2168. The health screening checkpoint helps the community remain in compliance with the health measures enacted by the State of Bavaria. The checkpoint has been coordinated with the of the City of Eschenbach, the City of Grafenwoehr, local law enforcement officials and USAG Bavaria. The checkpoint will be in place until the additional measures enacted by the State of Bavaria end in April. Thank you for your patience and cooperation.
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State of Bavaria imposes 2-week ‘fundamental restrictions’ starting March 20 (March 20, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

The Bavarian Minister President Dr. Markus Soeder announced today, March 20, further statewide restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus. Soeder announced a state of emergency March 16. All people residing in Bavaria — including all communities at U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria in Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch — are subject to the new restrictions, which are set to end no earlier than April 3, 2020, at midnight. German police are authorized the enforce these new restrictions and violations are punishable under German law. When outside with a permissible reason, always carry a DOD identification card. If stopped by a member of law enforcement, present your ID card and state your purpose for being outside your home.

=====GENERAL DECREE=====

Enforcement of the Infection Protection Act (IfSG)

Everyone is encouraged to reduce physical and social contact with other people outside of their own household to an absolutely minimum. Wherever possible, a minimum distance between two persons of 1.5 meters must be observed.
All in-dining restaurants are prohibited, with the exception of drive-thru, delivery and take-away service.
Visits to the following facilities are prohibited:
1. Hospitals and preventive and rehabilitation facilities providing care comparable to a hospital;
2. Inpatient facilities;
3. Institutions for the care of persons with disabilities, including the mentally-handicapped;
4. Outpatient care residential facilities, retirement and senior care facilities.

Leaving your own home is only permitted if there are valid reasons. The valid reasons are:
1. Going to and from your job;
2. The use of medical and veterinary care facilities;
3. Trips to get supplies for daily living (i.e. food, beverages, pet supplies, pharmaceuticals, money, gas, etc.);
4. The accompaniment of persons requiring assistance and minors;
5. The assistance of persons and minors in need of assistance;
6. The escort of dying persons as well as burials in the immediate family;
7. Sports and outdoor activity in the fresh are, but only alone or with immediate family members and without being in a group;
8. Activities for the care of animals.

Police are required to enforce the adherence to these limitations, and persons are required to provide a valid reason to the police when checked.
A breach of this general order may be punished as an administrative offence of the Infection Protection Act.
Further orders from the local health authorities remain unaffected.
This general decree is immediately enforceable in accordance with the Infection Protection Act.
This General Decree shall enter into force March 21, 2020, at midnight. The initial restrictions thus end midnight April 3, 2020.

Complete Translation⚠ (English)

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USAG Bavaria increased protection measures March 20-23 (March 19, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria installations at Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch are implementing increased protective measures during the U.S. Army Europe training holidays and the overall 4-day weekend March 20 – 23.

While USAG Bavaria will adhere to the March 20 and March 23 training holiday schedule, Soldiers will continue screening efforts at installation gates. Out of a strong abundance of caution, and utilizing the 7ATC Commander’s authorities to protect the force, additional health protection measures associated with reducing the spread of the coronavirus go into effect Friday, March 20. Emergency response services provided by military police and fire departments remain in operation.

Installation access will be restricted at all locations. DOD ID cardholders will not sign-in guests. Food delivery will not have access on-post during this time. Only taxis dropping off customers will have installation access (no empty taxis on-post).

The garrison is providing critical installation services on Friday, March 20 and Monday, March 23. These preventive measures are unique to each installation based on available installation resources, staffing, population sizes and risk factors.

===============================
GRAFENWOEHR - TOWER BARRACKS
===============================

• Army Lodging: Open
• Army Community Services: (Family Advocacy Program/SHARP) Open
• Tower Barracks Commissary: Open
• Tower Barracks Dining Facility (DFAC): Open to Soldiers only (take-out)
• Tower Barracks Express Gas Station: Open
• Camp Algiers Express: Open
• Netzaberg Express Gas Station: Open
• Camp Kasserine Mobile Field Exchange (MFE): Open
• Garrison Shuttle Service: Not operational
• Community Mail Room: Pick-up only (no customer service window)
• Directorate of Public Works (DPW) & Work orders: Open
• Military Personnel Division (IACS will be closed)
• Medical Clinics: Open
• Tower Barracks Main Exchange: Closed
• Tower Barracks Food Court: Closed
• Family & MWR services and programs: Closed
• Childcare: Open for mission-critical care only
• Community Bank: Closed (ATM remain operational)
• Service Credit Union: Closed (ATM remain operational)

===============
ROSE BARRACKS
===============

• Army Lodging: Open
• Army Community Services: (Family Advocacy Program/SHARP) Open
• Rose Barracks Commissary: Open
• Rose Barracks Express Gas Station: Open
• Rose Barracks Dining Facility (DFAC): Open to Soldiers only (take-out)
• Garrison Shuttle Service: Not operational
• Community Mail Room: Open, Pick-up only (no customer service window)
• Central Issue Facility (CIF): Open
• Directorate of Public Works (DPW) & Work orders: Open
• Military Personnel Division: Open (IACS will be closed)
• Medical Clinics: Open
• Rose Barracks Pxtra: Closed
• Rose Barracks Food Court: Closed
• Family & MWR services and programs: Closed
• Childcare: Open for mission-critical care only
• Community Bank: Closed (ATM remain operational)
• Service Credit Union: Closed (ATM remain operational)

===========
HOHENFELS
===========

• Army Lodging: Open
• Army Community Services: (Family Advocacy Program/SHARP) Open
• Hohenfels Commissary: Open
• Hohenfels Main Exchange: Open
• Hohenfels Express Gas Station (Albertshof): Open
• Community Mail Room: Pick-up only (no customer service window)
• Central Issue Facility (CIF): Open
• Directorate of Public Works (DPW) & Work orders: Open
• Military Personnel Division: Open (IACS will be closed)
• Medical Clinics: Open
• Hohenfels Express (Warrior Hill): Closed
• Hohenfels Food Court: Closed
• Family & MWR services and programs: Closed
• Childcare: Open for mission-critical care only
• Community Bank: Closed (ATM remain operational)
• Service Credit Union: Closed (ATM remain operational)

==========
GARMISCH
==========

• Army Lodging: Open
• Army Community Services: (Family Advocacy Program/SHARP) Open
• Garmisch Commissary: Open
• Garmisch AAFES Retail Store: Open
• Garmisch Express Gas Station: Open
• Community Mail Room: Pick-up only (no customer service window)
• Family & MWR services and programs: Closed
• Childcare: Open for mission-critical care only
• Community Bank: Closed (ATM remain operational)
• Directorate of Public Works (DPW) & Work orders: Open
• Military Personnel Division: Open (IACS will be closed)
• Service Credit Union: Closed (ATM remain operational)

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Bavarian Ministry of Health publishes list of what may remain open in Bavaria (March 19, 2020)
Bavaria Ministry of Health

On Monday, March 16, Bavarian Minister President Dr. Markus Soeder announced a state of emergency in Bavaria, which immediately closed or set off-limits public leisure and entertainment facilities like pools, fitness clubs and playgrounds. The Bavarian Ministry of Health published a list of shops that may remain open in the German economy in Bavaria. Some businesses leaders, however, may choose to close. Here is the most current list of shops that are authorized to remain open:

Gas stations
Car rental
Parcel stations at post offices
Fuel trade (oil, pellets etc.)
Car Rental
Retail trade
Specialty food shops (i.e. wine/beer shops, liquor stores or delis)
Retail shops selling hunting supplies (ammunition)
Agricultural trade in fertilizers, plant protection, seeds, agricultural machinery, spare parts, etc.
Repair of agricultural machinery
Auto mechanics and spare parts
Truck driving schools
Online delivery services
Florist shops
Shops with specialized DIY assortments such as paint or flooring stores
Building materials trade
Wholesale trade including food wholesale
Supply and installation of goods, e.g. kitchens
Building sites, construction industry
Nursery
Chimney sweeper
Locksmith
Building cleaners
Taxis
Hotels & Lodging (Not for private tourist purposes)
Camping sites (permanent campers only)
Bicycle repair
Newspaper and magazines vendors
Personal trainers
Laundrettes
Doctors
Lawyers offices
Tax consultants and auditors
Funeral homes

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TRANSCOM Guidance for Personnel Affected by DOD Stop Move (March 19, 2020)
U.S. Transportation Command

On March 14, U.S. Transportation Command issued an advisory to the moving industry to provide Defense Personal Property Program customers and their chain of command decision space in light of the Department of Defense’s March 13, 2020, ‘stop movement order’ halting most permanent change of station moves from March 16 through May 11, 2020.

The advisory directs moving companies to take no action on scheduled pick-ups or pack-outs of household goods until they confirm with the Personal Property Office responsible for the shipment that it should continue. Impacted customers with scheduled pick-ups and pack-outs should be contacted by their provider to inform them of the delay of their pick-up or pack-out. Deliveries of household goods, unaccompanied baggage, and non-temporary storage lots should continue as scheduled.
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DoDEA-Europe provides guidance on digital learning (March 19, 2020)
Department of Defense Education Activity - Europe

Student at DoDEA-Europe schools should enter the Europe East Digital Learning Sites website by today, March 19. The site is now live. More...

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Open library account during library closures (March 19, 2020)
IMCOM-Europe

During the period of library closures, our garrison customers without library accounts are welcome to apply for an account by sending an email to usarmy.sembach.erlsc-staff@mail.mil. Library staff will be monitoring the email to ensure a timely reply to request. Accounts will be setup with a 90- day expiration date. When our locations reopen, new applicants should visit their garrison library to validate their library account so that they can check out physical materials and to continue using the online resources.

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Coronavirus & non-TRICARE beneficiaries: Information on German medical services (March 18, 2020)
7th Army Training Command Public Affairs

As the COVID-19 situation continues to develop, we are providing information on the status of care available in this community. For more, call your primary caregiver or the 24/7 German medical hotline at 116-117. The German hotline has limited English speakers.

The following instructions were published for people who suspect they may have been infected with the COVID-19 virus:

Individuals suspected of having contracted COVID-19, especially those who are ill after staying in high-risk regions or after having had contact with a COVID-19 case, should consult a doctor. Call before visiting the doctor's office or hospital so that organizational precautions can be taken to protect staff and other patients. When calling, point out that the patient was in a risk region or was in contact with a COVID-19 case.

Individuals suspected of having contracted COVID-19 should avoid contact with other people. This also applies to the home environment. If possible, separate in time and space from other household members. A "separation in time" could mean taking the meals one after the other, not together. A spatial separation could mean the possibly infected person is in a different room than the other household members. Other precautions to protect third parties:

Cough and sneeze in your elbow.
Use disposable handkerchiefs and dispose of them safely after use.
Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly.
Regularly ventilate living rooms and common rooms.
Do not share household items (such as dishes and laundry) and hygiene articles with third parties.
Use your own bathroom if possible.
Regularly clean shared surfaces such as tables or door handles with household cleaners.
Avoid hospitals and retirement homes.

People who have had personal contact with a person who has been lab-diagnosed with the novel coronavirus COVID-19 should contact the health authority immediately — even if they do not have any signs of illness.

Additional information:

Robert Koch Institute⚠ (English)
State of Bavaria Health Administration⚠ (German)
Health Administration Neustadt a. d. Waldnaab District⚠ (German)
Health Administration Amberg/Sulzbach District⚠ (German)
Health Administration Neumarkt i. d. Oberpfalz District⚠ (German)
Health Administration Ansbach District⚠ (German)

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DoDEA cancels 2020 spring sports season (March 18, 2020)
Department of Defense Education Activity

DoDEA made the decision to cancel the 2020 spring sports season amid the spread of the coronavirus. This is highly disappointing to all and will be heart-breaking for student-athletes. The cancelation aims to decrease the spread of the coronavirus.

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European Union closes its borders (March 18, 2020) DER Spiegel

All trips between non-European countries and the European Union are suspended for 30 days. "Germany will implement this immediately," said Chancellor Angela Merkel on Tuesday evening. Non-EU citizens are no longer allowed to enter Germany due to the coronavirus. The imposed entry stop applies immediately.

The closure of the borders does not apply to permanent residents, EU citizens, diplomats, doctors, nurses, researchers and experts. The proposal also excludes people who transport important goods and commuters in border regions with work in the EU. This applies to international air and sea transport for travel connections that originate outside the European Union. There are exceptions for third-country nationals with long-term residence rights in an EU country. According to Chancellor Merkel, the restriction initially applies to 30 days.

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100% ID checks at Bavaria commissaries, Early Bird hours suspended. (March 18, 2020)
DeCA

Starting today, March 18, 2020, DeCA commissaries across Bavaria will start a 100% ID check before entering the building. In addition to hand washing before shopping, customers will also be required to show their IDs before entering the commissary. Bavaria commissaries will also suspend their daily 8-10 a.m. early bird hours until further notice.

There is also a limit on antibacterial products and paper products, like antibacterial-wipes, hand-soaps, and hand-sanitizer, toilet paper and tissues products. The limit is three per customer for these products. These changes come as a preventative measure to help combat the spread of COVID-19 and ensure everyone has the opportunity to necessary items.

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ACS updates its service delivery approach to focus on resiliency in families (March 17, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Army Community Service

The garrison’s Army Community Service program’s mission supports families in times like these, and took the opportunity to alter the service delivery model during the period of concern. Though ACS temporarily closed the Tower Barracks, Hohenfels and Garmisch offices, the Rose Barracks office, Bldg.322, remains open for in and out processing during the week from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

All other services are taking place through telephonic and electronic means:

Information and Referral, please contact: 09662-83-2650 or DSN 476-2650.
Victim Advocacy Services, please contact the 24/7 Hotline +49 162-2960661.
Army Emergency Relief, please contact: 09662-83-2650 or DSN 476-2650 (after hours, please contact American Red Cross: 1-877-272-7337)

If you are in need of emergency services, please contact 110.

Our school Military Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) are supporting clients telephonically:

Netzaberg Elementary School: 011-49 152-2447-3647 or 011-49-152-2983-0745
Netzaberg Elementary School: 011-49-152-2983-0485 or 011-49-152-2983-0515
Vilseck Elementary School: 011-49-152-2985-3944

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DoDEA: Digital learning to begin March 19 (March 16, 2020)
Department of Defense Education Activity Europe (DoDEA-Europe)

Our teachers are working diligently to create strong, digital learning plans for each of your students at all of our 32 schools. Digital learning will begin Thursday, March 19th. On that date, students should access the District Digital Learning website and make contact with their teachers by visiting each teacher’s digital learning plan. This will include learning objectives, times when real-time instruction will take place and access to learning resources. More...

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7th Army Training Command implements increased COVID-19 response measures for U.S. military community in Bavaria (March 16, 2020)
7th Army Training Command

As the COVID-19 situation continues to develop, Brig. Gen. Christopher Norrie, commander of U.S. Army 7TH ARMY TRAINING COMMAND, has directed the implementation of increased response measures to protect Soldiers, Civilians, Families and Communities within the command’s Area of Responsibility.

Consistent with measures announced by the government of the State of Bavaria and effective Tuesday March 17:

Soldiers residing on-post at U.S. Army installations within the U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach and U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria footprint are restricted from leaving the installation. Travel to neighboring installations is approved only for duty or essential errands.
Soldiers residing off-post may travel between their place of residence and assigned installation. Travel to off-post facilities within 20 kilometers of the Soldier’s place of residence is authorized only for essential errands. All other travel is restricted.
Soldiers will not visit bars, night clubs, cinemas, pools, spas, fitness studios or similar facilities.
Commercial restaurants on post will only provide take-out options.
Commanders will minimize the presence of Civilian employees (to include Local National and Contractors) consistent with the ability to maintain readiness and critical functions. Tele-work will be used to the maximum extent possible.
Services such as medical treatment facilities, post exchanges, commissaries, banks, post offices, vehicle inspection & registration, pharmacies and dining facilities will remain open but hours may be adjusted.
Fitness centers and those facilities and services deemed non-essential will be closed until further notice.
Chapel services will be moved online.
Screenings at the gates to U.S. installations will continue. Traffic may be routed to select gates.
All members of our community are strongly encouraged to adhere to the above-listed measures to reduce the potential frequency of COVID-19 transmission within Bavaria.

Consistent with the Uniformed Code of Military Justice, Soldiers will be held accountable by the chain of command for violations of these orders, in addition to any violations of directed self-isolation or travel. Civilian members of the community may be subject to a ban from services and/or the installation for failing to comply with these orders.

Commanders may emplace additional measures beyond those specified here. All emergency services remain in effect within U.S. military installations in Bavaria.

The entire U.S. military community shares the responsibility to limit the potential spread of COVID-19, and are encouraged to follow guidance published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization including:

Social Distancing
Basic Hygiene
Self-Isolation

7th Army Training Command and assigned forces remain postured and ready to deploy as directed by U.S. Army Europe and U.S. European Command. More...

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Exercise Defender-Europe 20 UPDATE (March 16, 2020)
United States European Command

In response to the current outbreak of the COVID-19 virus and recent guidance by the Secretary of Defense, we have modified exercise Defender-Europe 20 in size and scope. As of March 13, all movement of personnel and equipment from the United States to Europe has ceased. The health, safety and readiness of our military, civilians, and family members is our primary concern. More...

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U.S. Army Civilian Personnel Guidance for Army Civilians in Responding to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (March 16, 2020)
Assistant Secretary of the Army, Manpower and Reserve Affairs

On March 8, 2020, the Department of Defense released guidance to all personnel in response to the coronavirus. This Army memo provides further guidance on telework, alternative work schedules, leave and other flexibilities. More...

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Department of Homeland Security outlines new process for Americans returning from Germany and certain European countries (March 16, 2020)
Department of Homeland Security

Americans returning from all restricted countries will now be required to travel through the following 13 airports:

Boston-Logan International Airport (BOS), Massachusetts
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Michigan
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Hawaii
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
Los Angeles International Airport, (LAX), California
Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Washington
Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia

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State of emergency in Bavaria tightens protection measures against coronavirus (March 16, 2020)
Bavarian Minister President, Bayerischer Rundfunk TV

The Bavarian Minister President Dr. Markus Soeder announced today, March 16, a state of emergency in the state of Bavaria for at least 14 days to allow the state government to implement all protective measures against coronavirus (COVID 19). The goal is to significantly slow down the spread of the coronavirus to protect all citizens, especially the high-risk groups of senior citizens and people with pre-existing health conditions. At USAG Bavaria, we are re-evaluating how this affects protection measures already in place at all USAG Bavaria installations. Stay connected to our coronavirus page for updates at http://go.usa.gov/xd6rT. The state of Bavaria's state of emergency measures currently include:

Effective March 17 - April 19, 2020, all public leisure and entertainment facilities must close. These include bars, clubs, movie theaters, museum, zoos, entertainment parks, swimming pools, saunas, spas, fitness clubs, playgrounds, public facilities such as auditoriums and public adult education schools.
Effective March 18, all restaurants may only open from 6 a.m.-3 p.m. The maximum amount of people served at tables in restaurants is 30 at a time. Tables must be separated by a distance of at least 1.5 meters. After 3 p.m., restaurants may remain open for take-out, drive-in and delivery only.
Effective March 18, all stores will close. Exceptions include supermarkets, drug stores, pharmacies, animal supply stores, banks, barber shops and gas stations. These stores are permitted to change their opening hours and may stay open Monday-Saturday until 10 p.m., and are allowed to open on Sundays noon-6 p.m. Hotels also remain open.
Bavarian schools and child care facilities remain closed until April 19.
Medical support. Coronavirus testing has increased. The number of staff responding to the German medical hotline (116117) also increased. Medical staff on leave asked to report for duty.

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USAG Bavaria releases coronavirus FAQ (March 16, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

We're updating our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page daily based on DOD guidance and your most common questions.

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Germany: Border restrictions with borders to Austria, Denmark, France, Switzerland and Luxembourg will be in effect Monday morning (March 15, 2020)

In addition to Denmark, Austria, Switzerland and France, temporary boarder controls will also be established at the Luxembourg border, starting Monday morning. Federal Interior Minister Horst Seehofer has announced controls and entry bans at the borders. "Travellers without a valid reason can't enter the country", Seehofer said in Berlin. "We therefore ask all citizens to not travel without a valid reason. "It has not yet been determined how long the border controls will remain in effect.
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German media reports border closures/restrictions with Austria, Denmark, France, and Switzerland. (March 15, 2020)
Merkur

Germany will close/restrict it's borders with Austria, France, Denmark and Switzerland, several German media sources are reporting Sunday late afternoon. German Minister of Interior Horst Seehofer will report on details at 7 p.m. It is reported that goods would continue to flow between the countries and commuters could also still cross the borders.

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U.S. Army establishes 24/7 hotline to assist with PCS travel (March 15, 2020)
U.S. Army

Those affected by the Army's guidelines concerning Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves to or from countries that are designated as Alert Level 2 or 3 due to coronavirus (COVID-19) can call the 24-hour hotline (1-888-276-9472), option 5 for guidance. From a German phone, dial 001-888-276-9472. CDC Alert Level 3 countries in Europe include Germany, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City. Other countries include China, Iran and South Korea. Learn more at www.army.mil/covid-19.

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Memorandum: Stop Movement for All Domestic Travel for DoD Components in Response to Coronavirus (March 14, 2020)
Department of Defense

This memorandum applies to all DoD military and civilian personnel and their families assigned to DoD installations, facilities, and surrounding areas in the United States and its territories. All DoD military personnel will stop movement while this memorandum is in effect. In addition, DoD civilian personnel and DoD family members, whose transportation is government-funded, will also stop movement. This policy applies to Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and Temporary Duty. Additionally, until the domestic travel restrictions prescribed above are lifted, DoD Components may only onboard civilian employees within the local commuting area, and military members are only authorized local leave in accordance with Service policies. A travel exception may be granted. More...

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How commissaries are responding to COVID-19 (March 14, 2020)
Defense Commissary Agency

DeCA created a coronavirus FAQ page at https://commissaries.com/coronavirus⚠. Product availability rates for commissaries in Europe are currently at 95% in Europe, which is excellent. Orders transported by ship to Europe average 14 days.

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U.S. Army coronavirus page offers PCS guidance, FAQ (March 14, 2020)
U.S. Army

Army senior leaders continue to evaluate current day-to-day operations to ensure the safety of all of our Soldiers, family members and civilian personnel. New site at www.army.mil/covid-19 offers the latest guidance, resources and FAQ. More...

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Events in Bavaria with over 1,000 participants canceled (March 14, 2020)
Bavaria Minister of Health

Bavaria's Minister of Health supports the proposal to cancel events with more than 1,000 participants for the time being.

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DOD releases FAQ to travel restrictions (March 13, 2020)
Department of Defense

On March 12, the U.S. Secretary of Defense restricted travel for all DoD uniformed personnel, civilian personnel and family travelling to, from, or through the CDC Level 3 designated locations for 60 days, effective March 13, 2020. Today, March 13, the DOD provided answers to common questions to those restrictions. More...

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Child and Youth Services Update (March 13, 2020)
Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation

Child and Youth Services in all USAG Bavaria communities changed their operations until further notice due to precautionary measures.

Child Development Centers: Mission essential care only. *Eligible families are already pre-registered as mission essential in CYS. For questions, please contact the Child Development Center.
School Age Centers: Mission essential care only.*Eligible families are already pre-registered as mission essential in CYS. For questions, please contact the School Age Center.
CYS Sports & Fitness: Programs and events cancelled.
Family Child Care (FCC): No change to operations.
SKIESUnlimited: Programs and events cancelled.
Parent Central Services: No change to operations.
School Liaison Officer: No change to operations.
Youth Centers: Facilities are closed. Programs and events cancelled.

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DODEA School Closures (March 13, 2020)
Installation Management Command-Europe

To that end, over the past few days, and especially the past 48 hours, the USAREUR Commander has decided that DoDEA schools in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands will be closed beginning Monday, March 16. More...

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German schools and daycare centers in Bavaria close (March 13, 2020)
Bavarian State Government

Due to the spread of the corona virus, schools and kindergartens in Bavaria will be closed until April 19. Parents of students at DoDEA schools at USAG Bavaria should be preparted for a decision to close schools too.

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Czech Republic border closure (March 13, 2020)
Auswaertiges Amt

From midnight March 14, 2020, a basic entry ban applies to all persons who want to enter the Czech Republic. Czech nationals and foreigners with a residence permit in the Czech Republic are exempt, but must expect health examinations with temperature measurements.

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USAG Bavaria fitness centers hours reduced (March 12, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Effective immediately, all USAG Bavaria fitness centers at Grafenwoehr, Vilseck, Hohenfels and Garmisch—including the 24/7 gyms—open at 7:30 a.m. Fitness centers will be open from 7:30-9 a.m. for shower use only. Fitness centers open for normal use at 9 a.m. until regularly scheduled closing times (24/7 gyms close same hours). Fitness center patrons are reminded to practice social distancing and good hygiene. These modified hours are in effect until further notice.

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Exercise Defender-Europe 20 Update (March 12, 2020)
EUCOM

After careful review of the ongoing Defender-Europe 20 exercise activities and in light of the current Coronavirus outbreak, we will modify the exercise by reducing the number of U.S. participants. Activities associated with the exercise will be adjusted accordingly and we'll work closely with Allies and partners to meet our highest priority training objectives. More...

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Increased health protection measures at all installation gates (March 12, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Gate guards at U.S. Army installations in Europe will no longer touch ID cards. Beginning today, March 12, people entering any U.S. Army installation in Europe—includeing those at USAG Bavaria—will be expected to:

Maintain control of their individual Common Access Card (CAC); Installation Pass (IP); or other scannable means of identification used for installation access.
Follow the directions of the guard to turn the card around if the back of the card needs to be scanned.
Not hold the card near their face, as the hand-held scanner uses a laser to read the card.
Be prepared to go through this procedure for every identification card for any other people in the vehicle.

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Travel Restrictions for DoD Components in Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (March 12, 2020)
DOD memorandum

The U.S. Secretary of Defense restricted travel for all DoD uniformed personnel, civilian personnel and family travelling to, from, or through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Level 3 designated locations for 60 days, effective March 13, 2020. Germany has been designated a Level 3 location (see https://go.usa.gov/xd6zF). More...

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CDC designates Germany Level 3 country (March 12, 2020)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to the specified countries in Europe. There may be limited access to adequate medical care in affected areas. Widespread, sustained spread of a respiratory illness caused by a new coronavirus (COVID-19) has been reported in countries in this region. More...

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USAG Bavaria identifies first case of coronavirus (March 11, 2020)
USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

A civilian employee of the U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. The employee is with the garrison's Directorate of Emergency Services and is currently being treated at a host nation medical facility.

The Army has begun the process of tracing and contacting people with whom the employee might have had contact over the past two weeks in his job in the Hohenfels community. The garrison is implementing all appropriate control measures to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

"Our priority is to maintain the health and safety of our personnel and family members, while implementing protective measures and continuing to work with our host nation partners on prevention of spread," said Col. Adam Boyd, U.S. Army Garrison Bavaria commander.

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7th ATC & USAG Bavaria on coronavirus (March 11, 2020)
7th Army Training Command & USAG Bavaria Public Affairs

Out of an abundance of caution, 7th Army Training Command and USAG Bavaria are implementing precautionary measures to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19. These basic measures are consistent with the guidance published from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. These include:

Social Distancing: limit contact between people through greetings or large public gatherings, to include meetings at work.
Increased frequency of cleaning: handwashing stations at entry/exit points of high traffic areas. This may affect the hours of on-post services to allow time for additional cleaning.
Self-isolation in coordination and communication with chain of command.

The most current and accurate information about these and any future measures can be found here at our USAG Bavaria coronavirus webpage. We understand and appreciate your concerns on how constantly evolving worldwide issue this will impact you, your family, friends and neighbors. The health of our force is our top priority.

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COVID-19: Army stands ready (March 6, 2020)
Army News Service

The Army is taking the necessary steps to combat the spread of COVID-19, all while simultaneously implementing measures to treat personnel impacted by the disease, the Army's top medical officer said Thursday. More…
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CDC issues Level 3 Travel Health Alert for Italy (March 4, 2020)
EUCOM

The CDC has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Alert for Italy, recommending travelers avoid all non-essential travel: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/coronavirus-italy

USEUCOM continues to monitor the Coronavirus situation throughout Europe. We encourage all DOD personnel in impacted areas to monitor their command social media pages as well as the DOD, CDC and U.S. Embassy websites for the latest info.

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Coronavirus update for Europe (Feb. 28, 2020)
Regional Health Command Europe

As a result of the current coronavirus outbreak in Northern Italy, U.S. European Command medical professionals are working closely with appropriate authorities to monitor the situation, coordinate the latest guidance from DOD and CDC, and distribute information to DOD personnel throughout the European theater as it becomes available.

There is currently NO MANDATORY QUARANTINE for DOD personnel or their families in Europe solely because they may have visited Italy recently. The only time a QUARANTINE would be mandated is if the individual(s) were in contact with a person who has a confirmed case of the Corona Virus.

ADHERE TO THE FOLLOWING GUIDANCE:

1. If, within the last 14 days, you had close contact with a suspected or confirmed case of the Coronavirus OR traveled to China, AND

2. Are experiencing a cough, AND

3. Have a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), STAY HOME — DO NOT GO TO THE HOSPITAL.

4. TRICARE beneficiaries should call the call the Nurse Advice Line at one of the following toll-free numbers based on your location:

Bahrain: 800-06432
Belgium: 0800-81933
Germany: 0800-071-3516
Greece: 00-800-4414-1013
Italy: 800-979721
Spain: 900-82-2740
Turkey: 00-800-44-882-5287
UK: 0800-028-3263

*** To access the Nurse Advice Line (NAL) from a cell phone in Europe you must first call your clinic appointment line and choose the option for the Nurse Advice Line.***

5. Non-TRICARE beneficiaries should contact their primary care provider for advice.
If you do NOT meet ALL THREE of the above criteria, but you have symptoms of upper respiratory infection, call your primary care provider for advice.
DOD personnel and their family members should monitor their command social media pages as well as the DOD, CDC and U.S. Embassy websites for the latest info.

PREVENTIVE MEASURE TIPS/GUIDELINES:
There are simple everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:

Avoid seasonal influenza by getting your annual influenza shot from your healthcare provider.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Stay home while you are sick.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds OR use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

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