Thoughts on Moving to …

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If you haven’t yet heard, it is official…The Army will be moving us back to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri this summer! I have mixed feelings on this assignment, but I’m keeping a positive outlook.

Since John is an MP (military police) we have been to Fort Leonard Wood already for his MP Captains Career Course, as well as when he first commissioned, for the Basic Officer Leader Course (BOLC). This time around, he’ll be the BOLC Chief, overseeing all of the BOLC trainings. 

A few years ago, FLW was almost in our cards, so I started writing a blog post with the pros and cons of moving back. Since it’s actually happening this time, I wanted to circle around and share some of those thoughts, plus some new ones. 

Pros about moving to Fort Leonard Wood

  • The top positive about moving back to FLW is that John is getting an incredible job opportunity. Although it’s not the ideal location, this was our top choice for assignments. John will have the opportunity to shape and mentor the future of the MP Corps. No pressure!
  • We’ve been to Fort Leonard Wood before, so we have an idea of the lay of the land. Sometimes it takes a little while to get settled and learn your way around, but I’d say we’re good in that aspect.
  • And since we’ve been there before, I won’t have to search for those offices and services that are such a huge hassle to find when you first move. I already have a trusted dentist, vet, and dog boarder. I’m just hoping we’re still in all of their systems!
  • With less than a 6 hour drive, moving from Fort Riley to Fort Leonard Wood will be our shortest move yet! This should make traveling easier on the kids and dog, plus I won’t have to worry too much about the plants that I’ve managed to collect. We’ll be PCSing with 2 vehicles, and while I hate driving long distances, driving alone for a few hours won’t be too bad.
  • There weren’t a whole bunch of businesses right around Fort Leonard Wood the last time we were there, but they DID have a Panera, Buffalo Wild Wings, and so many delicious local places. I’ve also heard that they built a whole bunch after we left, so I’m looking forward to seeing what’s new over there! 
  • Speaking of businesses–my FAVORITE Goodwill is located not too far from the main gate of the base. I used to go thrift shopping when I had alone time, and that particular store always had goodies from Target that were brand new with the tags still attached. Definitely a win, considering the nearest Target is an hour and a half away! 

I will be absolutely heartbroken to leave Fort Riley, but I’m excited about the adventures that lie ahead at Leonard Wood!