Armed Forces Pest Management Board

 


 

 

Technical Guide No. 38

Protecting Meal, Ready-to-Eat Rations (MREs)

and Other Subsistence During Storage

May 2005

Published and Distributed by
DEFENSE PEST MANAGEMENT INFORMATION ANALYSIS CENTER
Forest Glen Section
Walter Reed Army Medical Center

Washington
, DC 20307-5001

Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense
for Environmental Security


 

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments………………………………………………………..3

Disclaimer……………………………………………………………….. 3

Foreword………………………………………………………………….3
 

PART I. INSTALLATION PROGRAMS


Instituting an Integrated Pest Management Program……………………..4

Initial Inspection………………………………………………………….4

Inspection/Survey/Monitoring Techniques……………………………….5

Structural Design/Pest Exclusion…………………………………………7

Sanitation/Housekeeping………………………………………………….8

Stock Handling Practices………………………………………………….9

Pest Exclusion Methods…………………………………………………..10

Non-chemical Control Methods…………………........................………..11

Chemical Control Methods………………………………………………. 12

 

PART II. SHIPBOARD PROGRAMS

Introduction………………………………………………………………..14

Landing Force Operational Reserve Materiel (LFORM)………………….14

U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Army Pre-positioned Stocks………………...15

Stacking Requirements…………………………………………………….15

Pest Management Guidelines………………………………………………16

References………………………………………………………………….20

APPENDICES

 

A.    Entomological Laboratory Identification Services…………………..23

B.    US Army Veterinary Command Points of Contact………………….28

 


Acknowledgments

The AFPMB Stored Products Committee completed the original version of Technical Guide No. 38 (TG 38) as a revision of information that was included in earlier issuances of OPNAVINST 6250.4, Pest Management Program. The following individuals contributed to this current revision: LCDR Eric Hoffman, Chair Quarantine/Stored Commodities Protection Committee, Capt Mary Ann Haberman, Vice Chair Quarantine/Stored Products Protection Committee, COL Timothy Jones, COL Scott Severin, LTC Bradford Hildabrand, LTC Richard Meaney, LTC William Sames, LCDR Michael Zyzak, MAJ Kelley Evans, MAJ Venee Morthole, Dr. Herb Bolton, Ms. Muriel Bundy, Mr. Michael Torstrick, and Mr. Gary Walker. The AFPMB greatly appreciates their technical input and editorial comments for this TG.   

Disclaimer

Trade names are used in this TG to provide specific information and do not imply endorsement of the products named or criticism of similar ones not mentioned. Mention of trade names does not constitute a guarantee or warranty of the products by the AFPMB, the Military Services, or the Department of Defense (DoD).

Foreword

This Technical Guide (TG) implements guidance for the protection of Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) Combat Rations owned or under the custody of military installations and forces consistent with the references listed at the end of this document.

 

Historically there have been few incidents of MRE infestation/damage by insects or rodents. However, the 10 mil polyethylene bags used to package MRE rations are susceptible to insect and rodent infestation and damage. Until different packaging is used for the rations, pest prevention measures must be taken ashore and afloat to protect them. Currently, MRE rations are stored in dry storage (ambient temperature) warehouses; refrigerated/cold storage facilities, both above and below ground; and aboard ships including the Maritime War Reserves (MWR). Furthermore, the rations are included in the Marine Corps Landing Force Operational Reserve Materials (LFORM) which, under the present situation, are stored for extended periods of time on board ships below deck and usually in areas inaccessible for thorough inspection. Since temperature and humidity conditions in shipboard storage are highly conducive to development of stored product pests, action must be taken to prevent infestation prior to and during storage aboard ship. Parts I and II of this TG provide pest control measures for the two broad MRE storage situations: ashore and aboard ship. Although this TG concentrates on MRE storage, most of the information also applies to other stored subsistence.


PART 1. INSTALLATION PROGRAMS

I.    Instituting an Integrated Pest Management Program.

      A.    Develop and implement MRE rations protection program through integrated pest management (IPM), which involves a combination of chemical and non-chemical prevention and control strategies. Portions of the IPM program may not be applicable to cold storage facilities. The basic IPM program for MREs includes:

 

               1.    Initial inspection of goods and premises, identification of problem areas, and identification of pests present.

               2.    Application of pest management techniques:

                     a.    Structural design and pest exclusion.

                     b.    Sanitation and housekeeping.

                     c..   Stock handling practices.

                     d.    Non-chemical control and exclusion methods.

                     e.    Chemical control methods.
 

               3.    Frequent inspection of goods and storage areas and pest monitoring to continually evaluate the program and correct problem areas is essential. The success of any IPM program is dependent upon communication and cooperation between warehouse management, medical, veterinary and entomological personnel, and military or civilian pest control operators. The responsibilities for each element of the program overlap, thus, the breakdown of any element can jeopardize the program.
 

II.    Initial Inspection

       A.    Joint inspection between the pest management consultant (PMC), warehouse management and Veterinary Services personnel will be performed to identify problem areas and to review current practices. The PMC will discuss techniques for effective pest management and pinpoint deficient areas per Section I of DLAR 4155.37 (DLAR 4155.37; AR 702-18; NAVSUPINST 4410.56; AFR 69-10; MCO 4450.13) (Reference (f)). Immediately following the inspection, the PMC and warehouse management personnel will discuss problem areas and develop a working plan and goals to correct deficiencies.
 

III.    Inspection/Survey/Monitoring Techniques

         A.   Conduct thorough veterinary/entomological/pest control commodity inspections for possible infestations. Emphasize receipt inspections of the product and method of conveyance to detect infested products before acceptance.

 

         B.   Conduct, at a minimum, monthly veterinary/preventive medicine/pest management inspections of sanitary conditions both inside and outside warehouses. If no critical deficiencies are reported, documented sanitary inspections are required quarterly (DSCP Handbook 4155.2). Sanitary problems shall be reported to the activity commander and warehouse/facility management when observed. Reported problems should be monitored until corrected. Actively involve facility employees in the pest management program to observe conditions during daily activities which may contribute to a pest infestation.

 

          C.    Effective inspection techniques are critical for the efficient operation of an IPM program. Conducting a proper inspection requires several items, such as a flashlight, pocket knife for opening boxes, clipboard, paper, pen, vials and tape for resealing boxes. In addition, the inspector may want to carry chalk for marking infested pallets, a magnifying hand lens to aid in initial insect identification, and a mirror on an extendable handle for inspecting difficult to reach locations. Also, a portable black light is useful in determining rodent contamination, as rodent urine fluoresces under ultraviolet light (Note: many substances will fluoresce when exposed to a black light. Experience is necessary to distinguish rodent urine from other materials).

          D.   During receipt inspections, the inspector should note the condition of boxes and pallets and look for actual infestations in the food product itself. Over-aged items and products in severely deteriorated or damaged containers should be viewed with suspicion. Where possible, such items shall be returned to the shipper. Do not place infested products in the food warehouse. The conveyance vehicle/vessel should also be inspected for evidence of insect or rodent infestation; such evidence may be grounds for rejection of the products. Shipments of MREs showing evidence of infestation shall be reported to DSCP immediately for pest management guidance.

          E.    During the initial preprogram inspection, as well as during follow-up inspections, the inspector should note general sanitation levels, structural discrepancies, and signs of rodent or insect infestations. Inspection results shall be communicated to the activity commander and warehouse management, as well as any other involved agency such as Public Works or Maintenance. Effective communication is necessary so that deficiencies may be corrected promptly to ensure an effective program.

            F.    Insect and other arthropod (mite) identifications must be supported by confirmation from a pest management consultant, the supporting medical laboratory, the Navy Environmental Health Center, a Navy Disease Vector Ecology and Control Center, Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit; an Air Force MAJCOM Pest Management Consultant or the regional or main office of the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine (CHPPM).

        G.    The following guidelines are helpful to inspectors in identifying insect and rodent infestations:

               1.    Rodents

                      a.    Look for droppings, urine stains, rub marks, gnawing, and shredded nesting materials on, in, and under palletized goods. Rodents may infest the interior of palletized goods, especially if held for long periods in the warehouse before issue.

                      b.    Do not confine inspections to pallets of edible foods; rodents will nest with equal facility in pallets of canned goods or paper products.

                      c.    In heavy infestations, the odor of rodents provides a valuable clue to their location.

               2.   Insects
 

                     a.    Note the number and type of dead insects on floors, ledges, and window sills, as well as any live insects crawling on or flying around commodities.

                     b.    If New Jersey style or other light traps are used, their contents must be checked weekly for the number and species of insects. A pest management consultant should provide a positive identification.

                    c.    Pheromone traps are recommended and may be used at the discretion of the responsible pest management consultant. Technical Guide No. 27, Stored Product Pest Monitoring Methods, (Reference (h)), provides guidance on their use.

                    d.    Check infestible food products by removing a layer or two of packages off the top of a pallet and examine for insects on package surfaces or in cracks and folds between packages. Insects infesting food products will usually be found on the underside of plastic bags, in and along folds and seams of bagged commodities, in the bottom of cartons and sacks, or underneath carton or box flaps. The existence of "frass" or silk in or on a product or chewed entry or exit holes are clues to an infestation, even if actual insects are not immediately seen.

                   e.    Check rodent bait stations periodically.  Rodenticides are combined with a grain base and often become infested by stored product insects.

 

IV.    Structural Design/Pest Exclusion.

         A.    Proper structural design and other techniques can prevent or minimize arthropod, rodent and bird entry into warehouses and storerooms, thereby, minimizing additional resources needed to remove them.
 

                 1.    Outside Grounds.
 

                        a.    Eliminate heavy vegetation and debris near the storage facility, particularly near doors and windows. These areas serve as harborage for insects and rodents increasing the risk of facility access by these pests.

                        b.    Empty refuse receptacles and pick up trash daily. Ensure receptacles have lids and are covered when not in use. Ensure areas around dumpsters are maintained debris free. Additionally, refuse receptacles should be washed frequently to prevent the collection of debris.

                        c.    Locate and organize surplus pallets well away from the warehouse building, as they will provide harborage for rodents and insects.

                       d.    Install yellow or sodium vapor exterior lighting to reduce insect attraction. Direct light, when possible, away from the facility.

                  2.    Buildings.
 

                       a.    Identify and repair holes/cracks in or under walls. Seal all cracks around door jams or at the wall-ground junction with concrete or other suitable material.

                       b.    Maintain tight closure of doors - the gap along bottom and sides should not exceed Ό inch. Keep doors closed when not in use. If railroad tracks run into the warehouse, a block or plate should be attached to the door to fill the gap next to the track itself.

                        c.    Seal grooves and channels where utility lines enter the building.

                        d.    Cover operable windows and air ducts with 16-mesh screening. Ensure screening is in good repair without holes or tears.

                        e.    Cover exhaust fans with operable louvers and/or16-mesh screening.

                        f.    Appropriately screen or cover floor drains and heating/cooling vents with Ό inch mesh to prevent rodent access. Seal nonfunctioning floor drains. Flush or clean drains on a regular basis.

                        g.    Properly seal expansion joints and other joints or cracks to eliminate pest entry or harborage.

                        h.    Proper use of air curtains at entry points.
 

                3.    Warehouse Interior.
 

                         a.    If there is an area open below the loading dock, keep it open, accessible and clean. Keep the dock itself free of debris, excess pallets, and packing materials, which can provide pest harborage.

                         b.     To aid surveillance and cleaning efforts, maintain a minimum of 46 cm (18") perimeter clearance between walls and shelves or pallets.

                         c.    Store packing material in repack areas off the floor; store tools and parts in mechanical and recharging areas similarly.

                         d.    Ensure damaged goods are isolated from all other consumables and returned or properly disposed in a timely manner.

                         e.    Provide lockers for employee storage of personal items and lunches. An area must be designated for eating and drinking, separate from storage operations.

V.    Sanitation/Housekeeping.

        A.    Proper sanitation and housekeeping efforts will substantially reduce pest food sources and harborage, as well as facilitate effective chemical and non-chemical control measures. Good sanitation practices include:

                 1.    Promptly cleaning spilled stored commodities. Avoid, when possible, storing commodities on wooden shelving or wooden pallets.  Wood is absorbent and extremely difficult to clean thoroughly. Avoid storing commodities directly on the floor. All storage racks/shelving must be periodically inspected and cleaned.

                 2.    Repair or remove and dispose of broken food containers and packages, especially in salvage and recoupment areas. Thoroughly cleaning metal or plastic refuse containers located in the recoupment area as frequently as necessary with hot water or steam. Use disposable liners in refuse containers to minimize cleaning frequency.

     3.    Use snug-fitting covers or lids for refuse containers. Additionally, when emptying refuse containers daily, ensure the containers are thoroughly clean.

                4.    Deep cleaning is absolutely necessary to remove food resources which may be exploited by pests. Sweep floors regularly, paying special attention to debris removal, which accumulates around posts, shelf legs, and pillars. Use an industrial vacuum sweeper to thoroughly clean warehouses and storerooms containing subsistence assets. Empty stock locations should be swept prior to new stock placement. This applies for trailers, containers, government-owned vans and rail cars to be loaded with MREs.

       5.    If rodent droppings are found, notify pest control immediately.  Prior to removal, thoroughly review the area (including commodities, packaging, pallets, and floors) for contamination by urine or other filth and assist in identifying the source of the infestation. Note: Special precautions may be necessary in certain regions. Refer to MILSTD 904B (Reference (i).

        6.    Maintain pallets in good repair, keeping clean and free of debris.

        7.    Ensure all rail cars and truck vans are clean and without holes prior to loading and upon receipt.

                    8.    Restrict food consumption and smoking to designated areas. Remove empty food tins, open containers of food scraps, and in other out-of-the-way places. These items are powerful pest attractants.

        9.    Keep all rest rooms and "break" or lunch areas clean.

VI.     Stock Handling Practices.

          A.    Certain stock handling practices have been effective at reducing the potential food supply and harborage for pests:

      1.    Inspect incoming products to ensure they are pest free upon receipt. Dispose of any infested products. See Section I of DLAR 4155.37 (Reference (f)).

      2.    Store MRE rations separate from commissary and fleet/troop issue food items to the maximum extent feasible, except when stored under refrigeration.

      3.    Avoid combining different commodities on the same pallet.

                  4.    Consolidate items on pallets as compactly as possible to eliminate rodent hiding places.

      5.    Rotate stock properly. Proper stock rotation is critical; the older a product, the more likely it is to be infested. Base rotation on the date of pack of the item, rather than the date the item was received in the warehouse or storeroom, unless food inspection personnel indicate otherwise. Management must be aware of the turnover time on various items in order to reduce the likelihood of overstocking, and consequent over-aging of products.

          6.    In locations where MRE rations are collocated with commissary or troop issue items, conduct a thorough inspection of the most highly infestible commodities (e.g. dry pet food) to determine whether or not an infestation exists. Conduct the same inspection on all other infestible commodities shortly thereafter. The following items are at risk for infestation:

Dry pet food

Flour Mixes*

Bakery Mixes*

Nuts

Dry fruit

Pasta

Cookies

Grits

Cereals

Dry beans

Rice

Cornmeal

Candy

Spices

*(Note: Canned flour and bakery mixes are subject to packaging infestation because of product dust/residue on the cans and in the cases.)

           7.     Food items, other than MREs, found to be infested with insects should be isolated as quickly as possible and fumigated or discarded (See AFPMB TIM-11, (Reference (g)), and fumigant manufacturer’s labeling). If this cannot be done within 24 hours, cover the infested commodity with plastic and seal the plastic to the floor with tape. It will serve as a temporary means of minimizing contamination of other products. If all of the above are impossible, place the infested commodity in refrigerated storage. The fumigation of MRE rations is not recommended and will only be done if no other options area available, and only after consultation with a Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP) entomologist (Directorate of Subsistence, Operational Rations, Commercial 215-737-5648/7533, DSN 444-5648/7533 or main desk, commercial 215-737-2952, DSN 444-2952). Reworking the MRE cases, placing the rations under refrigeration or freezing are preferred options. If rations are frozen, they must be thawed prior to handling to avoid damage to the packaging and compromising food safety. 

          8.    Encourage careful forklift operations. Most spillage and commodity damage is caused by carelessness. Special care must be taken with soft packaged items, such as flour, sugar, and rice.
 
VII.     Pest Exclusion Methods

           A.    These methods are designed to exclude pests from storage environments and prevent their establishment:

        1.    Properly installed plastic or wire screening attached or suspended beneath warehouse overhangs can be an effective means of excluding birds from access to roosting or nesting sites.

                    2.    Screening (16-mesh) in good repair properly installed over windows on outside walls is an effective way to prevent bird entry.

        3.    Large doorways leading to outside accesses should be tight-fitting and have no gaps larger than Ό inch on any edge when the door is closed. If these doorways are left open for extended periods, they should be fitted with full length plastic strips or properly installed air curtains (air current blowing down and out of the facility) to discourage and prevent pest entry.

        4.    Electronic, magnetic, and sonic devices are neither effective nor authorized for rodent or bird control (Reference (j)).
 
VII.     Non-chemical Control Methods

           A.    These methods are designed to control pest infestations by catching, killing, or excluding the pest without the use of pesticides. Warehouse design must be considered from the standpoint of control and exclusion.

                    1.    Repeating traps and snap traps are used for rodent control around the inside perimeter of the warehouse. They are set at regular intervals (distance will vary depending on the potential for rodent activity and the type of rodent normally encountered), or within stacks in high susceptibility areas such as those used for pet food, rice, and flour storage. Traps should be checked at least weekly, or daily if activity is observed. It is possible to have either a warehouse worker or food inspector check traps during the interval between routine pest control visits. They should notify pest control of any activity found.

        2.    Glue boards may be used for rodent control and should be placed in the same manner as traps on the natural rodent runs. They can also be used for monitoring for some insects. Note: Glue boards are often ineffective when used in very hot or dusty environments.

                    3.    Eliminate unnecessary water sources readily available to rodents, including leaking pipes and excessive condensation. This will also improve the effectiveness of liquid rodenticides.

                    4.    Repellent glues may be used to keep birds off roosting points, if they cannot be entirely excluded. In some situations, slip sheets (cardboard sheets used between the pallet base and load) or plastic may be placed on top of pallets to protect products from contamination.

         5.    Insect pheromone traps, New Jersey style light traps, and insect electrocutors, while not effective control measures do provide surveillance of insect populations. Pheromone traps may also be used outside of a storage facility, away from the building, to monitor outside pest insect populations and intercept pest insects before they can enter the facility.
 

IX.    Chemical Control Methods

           A.    Chemical pesticides are used to prevent or control insect, rodent, and

bird infestations.  Least hazardous yet effective pesticides are used as a last resort

in accordance with Integrated Pest Management.

 

               1.    Ensure that all pesticide applicators are trained, certified, or appropriately licensed to apply pesticides.

               2.    When necessary, use ULV fogging machines with an approved insecticide as a warehouse space treatment during non-duty hours. ULV can control flying and crawling stages of many insects, but will not affect eggs or insects inside food containers.  It is not a substitute for fumigation. Specific recommendations shall be obtained from the responsible pest management consultant and shall be based upon surveillance results.

               3.    Apply crack and crevice residual pesticides, insect growth regulators (IGR) or baits (approved for food processing establishments) per label instructions in dry storage warehouses or similar facilities. The frequency of application should be adjusted, reduced or increased, based on surveillance results; however, it shall not exceed label recommendations.

               4.    Dry rodenticide bait may be used in storage environments in tamper-resistant and secured bait stations. Rodent bait stations should be placed along the outside warehouse perimeter, as well as at points of evident need based on surveys and a map made recording location (Note: Rodents feeding on bait will die, possibly in inaccessible areas resulting in odor and  filth flies). Mechanical traps (windup, snap and bait stations with snap traps) may be used along interior walls (e.g. fire walls) as an alternative to bait stations. Place rodent control devices only in locations (map locations to prevent misplacing) that are accessible for inspection and servicing, and are protected from operations which may cause damage.  Stations should be checked at least monthly for rodent activity. Old bait material must be completely replaced with new at regular intervals, since many insect pests can feed on the bait without ill effect. Bait stations should be used outside all storage facilities.  For products stored in wet caves, bait stations should also be placed at intervals of 50 feet (15 meters) or closer. Bait stations placed outside must be tamperproof and secured. Baits must be protected from mechanical damage and be readily accessible to the rodent population. If rodent activity is noted indoors, both liquid bait stations and mechanical traps should be used to supplement dry rodenticide baits and the frequency of monitoring increased.

                    5.    Rodent bait stations can be used outside the storage facility, and are especially effective for rapid reduction of high rodent populations.

                    6.    Routine fumigation of MRE rations is prohibited. MRE fumigation will be performed only as noted in paragraph 5G.

               7.    To eliminate active infestations and prevent the spread of insects to MREs or other commodities, isolate and return or destroy infested product, deep clean storage areas and apply residual pesticides and/or IGRs if required. If necessary, fumigate any non-MRE product in which there is evidence (direct or indirect) of insect infestation. Fumigation should be accomplished in place, if possible, and as promptly as possible. When identified, report infestation to Senior Installation Medical Authority.  If infestation affects mission or facilities, also notify Garrison Commander or Station Commanding Officer.


 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART 2. SHIPBOARD PROGRAMS

I.    Introduction.

      A.    The Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) is a combat ration packaged in a 10 mil polyethylene bag which is strong and lightweight, but can be penetrated by rodents and certain insects. Under the confined conditions found aboard ship, MREs may be at risk for infestation or damage by those pests. Because of the critical importance of the MRE for use during contingency operations, it is essential that ship commanders ensure these rations are protected through an effective shipboard pest management program.

       B.    Ships Carrying MREs.

               1.    MRE rations are stocked aboard Navy ships when specifically authorized by a fleet commander and the Navy Food Service System Office. For example, an LSD may requisition MREs to feed the ship’s landing party during training or field exercises. In that situation, the rations will be found in the food service storerooms and will be the responsibility of the supply department. Additionally, the Marines and the U.S. Army store pre-positioned MRE stocks aboard contract vessels and USNS vessels (Military Sealift Command).

               2.    Navy replenishment and USNS vessels may carry MREs, some of which will be transported in refrigerated spaces. Certain types of amphibious assault ships have been designed to carry large quantities of MREs under a program called Landing Forces Operational Reserve Materials, or LFORM. The very nature of the program renders the MRE vulnerable to invasion by insects and rodents.

II    Landing Force Operational Reserve Materiel (LFORM)

       A.    Concept of LFORM. LFORM are part of Marine Corps Pre-positioned War Reserves Materiel stocks and are maintained aboard selected amphibious warfare ships to provide support for embarked troops in contingencies. Embarked Marines aboard for training operations will not draw stocks from LFORM. The combat cargo officer is responsible for LFORM stocks, not the supply officer.

       B.    Ship Types Carrying LFORM MREs. MRE rations for a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) will be pre-positioned and stored in secure spaces aboard each LPH, LHA, LPD and LKA. Designated ships each receive and hold five to seven thousand cases with 12 rations per case. Note: For most pre-positioned situations the MREs are stored in certified containers (sealed containers, no openings/vents). As long as the MREs are pest free when the containers are loaded, and the containers are tight, there should be no pest problems. Additionally, once staged aboard the pre-position ships the MREs are not readily accessible.

  

      C.    Palletizing MREs in LFORM. MREs are palletized and banded on standard 40" x 48" wooden pallets. There are 48 cases/pallet.

       D.    Rotation of MREs in LFORM. MREs have a 3 year shelf life under normal conditions. Current policy is to rotate MREs every deployment. Rotation will return MREs to supply channels for reissuing and consumption.

III.    U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Army Pre-positioned Stocks.

          A.    Newly assembled MRE rations are used for pre-positioned stocks. MREs are stored in containers aboard either contracted, chartered or USNS vessels maintained by the Military Sealift Command. Once placed aboard ship, the rations are not readily accessible and generally will not be inspected until the stocks are rotated off the ships. Some ships have containers equipped for remote monitoring of container conditions. The rations are stored for 30 months (U.S. Marine Corps) and 24 months (U.S. Army). When rotated, the rations are replaced with new rations to maintain the serviceability of the stocks. It is critical that these containers receive a proper inspection prior to loading. Container integrity and cleanliness are key components of this program.

IV.    Stacking Requirements.

          A.    Stacking. MREs shall be stacked no more than four (4) pallets high in a warehouse to prevent crushing the cases at the base of the stack. Continual vibration while underway will hasten the settling or crushing effects on the lower cases of MREs pallets. On those ships having overhead clearance allowing stacking of MREs, it is recommended that stacks be no more than three (two preferred) pallets high. While other LFORM gear may be placed under the MREs, no items shall be placed over the MRE rations. MREs shall not be stacked over or immediately adjacent to petroleum products (oils, greases, fuels, solvents, cleaning agents, explosives or ammunition).

          B.    Inspections. Marine Corps Service Support Group LFORM loading plans should allow accessibility to MRE rations for stored product pest inspections by medical department personnel. In this situation, accessibility means sufficient space for an individual to closely inspect a minimum of one side and the top of the MREs as stacked on a pallet.

          C.    Time and Temperature Guidelines. MREs stored in LFORM blocks can be expected to experience temperature ranges that allow them to last for at least one year. Studies by the U.S. Army, Natick Laboratory indicate the following time and temperature storage guidelines for MREs: seven years at 60oF, five years at 70oF, four years at 80oF, thirty months at 90oF, and five months at 110oF (See Reference (d)). Daily temperature logs should be kept on LFORM stowage areas where ordnance is held. Similarly, any spaces with MREs must also be monitored for temperature. The combat cargo officer should consider placing MREs in the coolest sections of the LFORM stowage spaces when designing the load plan.

V.    Pest Management Guidelines.

       A.    Initial Inspection and Treatment of LFORM MRE Stowage Spaces. The combat cargo officer must coordinate the initial inspection of storage space with the preventive medicine technician or Medical Department representative (MDR) prior to loading LFORM MRE rations. A meticulously thorough survey for any insect or rodent must be made at that time. Even if no insects or rodents are found, flawless sanitation and housekeeping practices will substantially reduce pests in food sources and harborage, as well as facilitate chemical and non-chemical measures for any pest that may be introduced later. A high degree of sanitation is essential in all store rooms to prevent or limit infestations. Information concerning shipboard pest management may be obtained from Reference (k).
 

                1.    Thoroughly deep clean (surface sanitation is not sufficient) the entire stowage space where MREs are to be placed. Any nearby spaces which hold or have recently held foodstuffs or animal products (boots, blankets, brushes, wool uniforms, etc.) must receive similar attention. Remove debris from the ship after each cleaning.

                2.    Once the storage area is cleaned, residual insecticide sprays may be applied; however, this treatment is not warranted unless pest activity was noted during clean up. Consider using insect growth regulators (IGRs) as a crack and crevice treatment to reduce the risk of pest population expansion. The preventive medicine authority certified to apply pesticides or station pest control personnel will apply approved compounds. Specific pesticide recommendation, rate, and type of application must be obtained from the respective area medical entomologist.

                3.    If subsistence supplies are procured at overseas ports, ensure they receive a proper receipt inspection (pier-side inspection) to prevent the introduction of stored product pests into ship storage areas.
 

           B.    Inspection of LFORM MREs Prior to Loading. Paragraph 4200 of Reference (c) states that stores received from military installations require only a quantity inspection. It further states that quality inspections are made by the supply activity upon acceptance of the material from the original supplier and will not be duplicated aboard ship. However, quality inspections are encouraged before the stores are transferred to onboard storage areas.  It is during this inspection that the Medical Department Representative should check closely for signs of insects and rodents. Receipt of stores from government installations other than military are to be inspected for both quantity and quality. Due to the absolutely critical importance of the LFORM MRE in future contingency operations, only stocks in good condition and free of defects should be accepted.

             C.    Loading of LFORM MREs. Loading can begin once the combat cargo officer has determined the quality and quantity of LFORM MREs, and that stowage spaces are properly prepared. Care must be taken to avoid damaging the rations during loading operations. Damaged cases with exposed foodstuffs must be removed from the pallet and repackaged. Prompt cleanup of spillage is essential. Supervisors must encourage caution and consciousness among forklift and elevator operations to avoid damage to these rations.

 

             D.    Routine Inspection Program for MREs Stored Aboard Ship.
 

                     1.    Inspection of Ship’s Company MREs. In those storerooms where MRE rations are co-located with ship’s company food stuffs, the Medical Department should conduct a thorough monthly inspection of several of the most highly infested commodities (flour, mixes, cornmeal, grits, pasta, cookies, cereals, spices, beans, nuts, and candy). Handle infestations detected as a result of those inspections per Reference (c).

 

                     2.    LFORM MRE Inspection Program Requirements. Due to the absolutely critical nature of these rations, conduct intense surveillance of the LFORM MREs. Any insect life form found in these stowage spaces must initially be considered as a threat to the MRE. The combat cargo officer should coordinate with the medical officer to have designated Medical Department representatives conduct weekly inspections for stored product pests. The LFORM load plan must allow for reasonable access; otherwise, adequate inspections cannot be performed.

 

                     3.    Surveillance Equipment. To conduct an adequate and thorough inspection, the inspector will need to carry several items, such as a flashlight, clipboard, paper, pen, alcohol vials for preserving insect specimens, magnifying hand lens to aid in initial pest identification, and optionally, a portable black light to identify rodent urine (Note: many substances will fluoresce when exposed to a black light. Experience is necessary to distinguish rodent urine from other materials).

 

                     4.    The inspector should note the condition of pallets and cases, as well as look for actual infestations in the products stored adjacent to MREs. Damaged cases should be viewed with suspicion. Note: Open package inspection of MRE meals for insect infestation is not necessary nor is it recommended unless the pouch bag has been damaged or a special inspection has been requested.

 

                     5.    Rodent Inspection.
 

                               a.    The MRE is vulnerable to rodent attack, especially in the LFORM configuration. Mice, for example, may be brought aboard in plywood boxes containing other materials in LFORM (burlap bags, ordnance, barbed wire, etc.).

                                b.    Inattention to detail on the part of the inspector looking for rodents could have serious consequences. The inspector should look for droppings, urine stains, rub marks, gnawing, and shredded nesting materials on, in, and under palletized goods. Rats and mice may also infest the interior of palletized goods.

                                 c.    The inspector should not confine the search for rodents to the MRE rations. The pests will nest in non-food pallets as well.
 

                     6.    Insect Inspection.
  

                                a.    The inspector should note number and type of dead insects on the deck, as well as any live insects on or around pallets and packages. Location and lot numbers of infested rations should be recorded.

                                 b.   Check MREs by removing cases from the top of the pallet and looking closely for insects on package surfaces or in cracks or folds between packages. Insects may be found on the underside of plastic bags, in the bottom of cases, or between the box and the sides of the MRE case. The existence of "frass" or silk in or on the product or chewed entry or exit holes are clues to an infestation, even if actual insects are not immediately seen. Breaking open pallets of all MREs stowed aboard ship is not recommended.

                                  c.    Positive insect identification may be obtained from the nearest area medical entomologist or PMC listed in Reference (h).
 

            E.    Procedures When LFORM MREs are Infested by Insects.
   

                    1.    Notify the combat cargo officer and medical officer.

                    2.    Determine the extent of infestation and record lot numbers of MRE containers.

                    3.     Remove all infested/damaged cases from the LFORM stowage space immediately, in order to minimize the possibility of infestation of "clean" supplies. Refrigerate cases, if possible, or dispose of them following current directives. When cases are damaged during loading, the cases shall be replaced with undamaged cases from stock.

                     4.    Contact the nearest Navy medical entomologist or PMC by phone or message for guidance and to transmit information on the lot numbers, condition and quantity of infested MRE rations. See Reference (h) for location of the nearest area entomologist.

                      5.     No fumigation procedure for MREs or other food stores aboard ship is currently approved. MREs and other food stores found to be infested can be covered with plastic and the plastic sealed to the floor with tape to isolate the product. If possible the products should be placed in refrigerated storage. This will serve as a temporary means of minimizing cross contamination to other products. Local medical or veterinary representatives must then determine through ration breakdown which components can be salvaged.
 

            F.     Procedures When MREs are Infested by Rodents.
 

                    1.     Light gangways well at night. Set traps and dispose of rodent carcasses following guidance provided in Reference (i). Check all traps during weekly inspections. When in port, rat guards must be utilized on all ship-to-shore lines on any vessel carrying MREs.

                     2.     Rodent bait blocks made of grain bait are not recommended for use aboard ship for two reasons: (1) the grain bait may be infested with insects during the manufacturing process and serve as foci for infesting the ship’s stored products, and (2) any rodent poisoned by a bait block may die in an inaccessible area and cause unpleasant odors.

                     3.     Glue boards may be useful for rodent control, especially in inaccessible areas. As with traps, locate the glue boards in natural rodent runs. Glue boards are not recommended for use in excessively hot and dusty areas.

                     4.     Remove damaged cases from storage. Pallets with damaged cases should receive 100% inspection of the cases to ensure there are no rodent nests present. Adjacent pallets should also be examined. A blacklight is useful for identifying rodent contaminated cases. Remove MRE pouches from contaminated cases and destroy the boxes as appropriate. The pouches should be examined for damage or contamination.

                     5.     MRE pouches that exhibit gnawing by rodents should be destroyed. Pouches with urine contamination can either be sanitized with a chlorine solution (Reference (i)) or destroyed as per Navy medical entomologist or local medical authority.

 

 

 

 

 

 


References

(a) COMNAVSURFPACINST 4080.1/FMFPAC ORDER 4080.2 (NOTAL)

(b) COMNAVSURFLANTINST 4080.1B/FMFLANT ORDER 4000.10B (NOTAL)

(c) NAVSUP PUB 485, Afloat Supply Procedures. Revision 2, 15 Nov 89, with changes through 31 Jan 96.

(d) DPSC Handbook 4155.2, Subsistence, Inspection of Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) Rations, Appendix A.


(e) DLAI 4145.31, Integrated Stored Products Pest Management, 9 May 1997.


(f) DLAR 4155.37/TB 702-18, Appendix S, Materiel Quality Control Storage Standards, 24 Feb 93.


(g) AFPMB Technical Guide No. 11, Hydrogen Phosphide Fumigation of Subsistence with Aluminum Phosphide.


(h) AFPMB Technical Guide No. 27, Stored Product Pest Monitoring Methods.


(i)  MILSTD 904B, Department of Defense Standard Practice: Guidelines for Detection, Evaluation, and Prevention of Pest Infestation of Subsistence.


(j) DoD Instruction 4150.7, DoD Pest Management Program, April 22, 1996.


(k)  US Navy Shipboard Pest Control Manual

                   


 

APPENDIX A

 

ENTOMOLOGICAL LABORATORY IDENTIFICATION SERVICES

AND ADDITIONAL POINTS OF CONTACT

 

 

Specimens can be sent to any of following laboratories for identification.  It is recommended that the facilities be contacted prior to shipment for any special instructions.

 

 LABORATORIES SERVICING CONUS INSTALLATIONS

 

CHPPM-North

Chief, Entomological Sciences Division

USACHPPM-North, ATTN:  MCHB-AN-ES

4411 Llewellyn Avenue

Fort Meade MD  20755-5225

DSN: 923-5281/6502, FAX DSN: 923-7132

Comm: (301) 677-5281/6502, FAX Comm: (301) 677-7132

 

CHPPM-South

Chief, Entomological Sciences Division

USACHPPM-South, ATTN:  MCHB-AS-ES

1312 Cobb Street SW

Fort McPherson, GA 30330-1075

DSN: 572-2564/78, FAX DSN: 572-2126

Comm: (404) 752-2564/78, FAX Comm: (404) 752-2126

 

CHPPM-West

Chief, Entomological Sciences Division

USACHPPM-West, ATTN:  MCHB-AW-ES

Box 339500 – MS 115

Fort Lewis, WA  98433-9500

DSN: 347-0073/0084, FAX DSN: 347-0163

Comm: (253) 966-0073/0084, FAX Comm: (253) 966-0163

 

CHPPM-Main

USACHPPM-Entomological Sciences Program

5158 Blackhawk Road

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010-5422

DSN: 584-3613, FAX DSN: 584-2037

Comm: (410) 436-3613, FAX Comm: (410) 436-2037

 

 

 

 

Navy DVECC, Jacksonville

Navy  Disease Vector Ecology and Control Center

P.O. Box 43

Naval Air Station/Bldg 937

Jacksonville, FL 32212-0043

DSN: 942-2424/25, FAX DSN: 942-4324                                                              

Comm: (904) 542-2424, FAX Comm: (904) 542-4324

 

Navy EPMU-2

Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit No. 2

ATTN:  Medical Entomology Department

Naval Station

1887 Powhatan Street

Norfolk, VA 23511-6288

DSN: 564-7671, FAX DSN: 564-1191

Comm: (757) 444-7671, FAX Comm: (757) 444-1191

 

Navy EPMU-5

Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit No. 5

ATTN:  Medical Entomology Department

Naval Station

3055 Albacore Alley, Box 368143

San Diego, CA 92136-5199

DSN: 526-7070/7077, FAX DSN: 526-7071

Comm: (619) 556-7070/7077, FAX Comm: (619) 556-7071

 

Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southern Division

Applied Biologist

SOUTHNAVFACENGCOM (Code16A)

2155 Eagle Drive, P. O. Box 190010

North Charleston, SC 29419-9010

DSN: 583-7020, FAX DSN: 583-7024

Comm: (803) 820-7020, FAX Comm: (803) 820-7024

 

Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northern Division

Applied Biologist

NORTHNAVFACENFCOM (Code 1831)

10 Industrial Highway - Mail Stop 82

Lester, PA 19113-2090

DSN: 443-5067, FAX DSN: 443-0555

Comm: (610) 595-5067, FAX Comm: (610) 595-0555

 

 

 

 

 

Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest Division

Applied Biologist

1220 Pacific Highway
San Diego, CA 92132-5190

DSN: 522-1234, Comm: (619) 532-1234,

 

Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine

Medical Entomology Function

IERA/RSRH

2513 Kennedy Circle

Brooks AFB, TX 78235-5123

DSN: 240-6135, FAX DSN: 240-6841

Comm: (210) 536-6135, FAX Comm: (210) 536-6841

 

 

LABORATORIES SERVICING OCONUS INSTALLATIONS

 

EGYPT

NAMRU-3

Chief, Entomological Sciences Division

NAMRU-3

PSC 452, Box 131

FPO AE  09835-0007

Comm: 011-202-284-1381; FAX Comm: 011-20-284-1382

 

GERMANY

CHPPM 

Chief, Entomology Sciences Division

CMR 402, Box 864

APO AE  09180

DSN: 486-6675/, FAX DSN 486-7198

Comm: 011-49-6371-86-6675, FAX Comm: (011)-49-6371-86-7198

 

HAWAII

Navy EPMU-6

Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit No. 6

ATTN:  Medical Entomology Department

P.O. Box 112, Building 1535

Pearl Harbor, HI 96860-5040

DSN: 471-9505, FAX DSN 471-9361

Comm: (808) 471-9505, FAX Comm: (808) 474-9361

 

 

 

 

 

Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific Division

Applied Biologist

PACNAVFACENFCOM (Code 1813) 

Pearl Harbor, HI 96860-7300

DSN: 430-5961, FAX DSN: 430-5419

Comm: (808) 474-5961, FAX Comm: (808) 474-5419

 

Preventive Medicine Service

ATTN:  MCHK-PV, Entomologist

Tripler Army Medical Center

Honolulu, HI 96859-5000

DSN:  (315) 433-9944, FAX DSN: (315) 433-9914

Comm: (808) 433-9944, FAX Comm: (808) 433-9914

 

ITALY

Navy EPMU-7

Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit No. 7

ATTN:  Medical Entomology Department

PSC 824, Box 2760

FPO AE 09623-2760

DSN:  624-4401/3782, FAX DSN:  624-4100

Comm: 011-39-95-56-4101/3782, FAX Comm: 011-39-95-56-4100

 

JAPAN

CHPPM-PAC

Chief, Entomological  Sciences Division

USACHPPM-PAC-Sagami

Unit 45008

APO AP 96338-5008

DSN: 268-4835, FAX DSN: 268-4367,

Comm:  011-81-3117-68-4835, FAX Comm: 011-81-3117-68-4367

 

KOREA

Preventive Medicine Detachment

Medical Entomologist

5th Medical Detachment

Unit 15247

APO AP 96205-0020

DSN: 725-4927, FAX DSN: 725-4920

Comm: 011-822-7915-4927, FAX Comm: 011-822-7915-4920

 

 

 

 

 

OKINAWA

Air Force Institute for Operational Health

Detachment 3, Unit 5213 - Building 850,

Kadena Air Base, Okinawa Japan

APO AP 96368-5213

DSN: (315) 634-2639/2603, FAX DSN: (315) 634-2611

Comm: 011-81-611-734-2639, Comm. FAX: 011-81-611-734-2611

 

Naval Hospital

U.S. Naval Hospital

Consolidated Preventive Medicine Unit

PSC 482

FPO AP 96362-1600

DSN: 643-7808, FAX DSN: 643-7812

Comm: 011-81-611-743-7808, FAX Comm: 011-81-611-743-7812

 

 

ADDITIONAL POINTS OF CONTACT

 

Defense Logistics Agency

Defense Supply Center Philadelphia

ATTN: DSCP-HROS (Entomologist), Bldg. 6

700 Robbins Ave.

Philadelphia, PA 19111-5092

DSN: 444-3876, FAX DSN: 444-4115

Comm:  (215) 737-3876, FAX: (215) 737-4115

 

Armed Forces Pest Management Board

Defense Pest Management Information Analysis Center

Forest Glen Section/WRAMC

6900 Georgia Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC  20307-5001

DSN: 295-7476, FAX DSN: 295-7482

Comm:  (301) 295-7476, FAX:  (301) 295-7482

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX B

 

US ARMY VETERINARY COMMAND POINTS OF CONTACT

 

 

North Atlantic Regional Veterinary Command Units

North Atlantic Regional Veterinary Command
Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Building 1 Room A130
Washington, D.C. 20307-5001
Phone: (202)-782-2299
DSN: 662-2299

Allegheny District Veterinary Command
116 Forbes Avenue Suite 4
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013-5066
Phone: (717) 245-4149/3180
DSN: 242-4149/3180

Carlisle Barracks Branch Veterinary Services
627 Wright Avenue Suite 2
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013-5078
Phone: (717) 245-3430/4122
DSN: 242-3430/4122

Fort Drum Branch Veterinary Services
11050 Mount Belvedere Boulevard
Fort Drum, New York 13602-5004
Phone: (315) 772-4265/4276
DSN: 341-4265/4276

Fort Knox Branch Veterinary Services
U.S. Army Medical Department Activity Building 1489
Fort Knox, Kentucky 40121-5520
Phone: (502) 624-2736/7622
DSN: 464-2736/7622

Great Lakes Branch Veterinary Services
3001 B 6th Street, Building 200H, 8 East
Great Lakes, Illinois 60088-5000
Phone: (847) 688-3252
DSN: 792-3252

 

 


Wright-Patterson Branch Veterinary Services
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio
Phone: (513) 257-0569/0571
DSN: 787-0569/0571

Mid-Atlantic District Veterinary Command
Building 2792 Harrison Loop
Fort Eustis, Virginia 23604-5558
Phone: (757) 878-3207
DSN: 927-3207

Camp Lejeune Branch Veterinary Services
Tarawa Terrace
Camp Lejeune, North Carolina 28543-5002
Phone: (910) 451- 5757
DSN: 751-5757

Cherry Point Branch Veterinary Services
PSC Box 8085
Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station, North Carolina 28533-0085
Phone: (252) 466-2037
DSN: 582-2037

Fort Bragg Branch Veterinary Services
Building 2-1148 Macomb Street
Fort Bragg, North Carolina 28307-5000
Phone: (910) 396-3103
DSN: 236-3103

Fort Lee Branch Veterinary Services
700 24th Street
Fort Lee, Virginia 23801-1716
Phone: (804) 734-2449
DSN: 687-2449

Norfolk Branch Veterinary Services
1933 Cold Storage Road, Building CEP-156
Norfolk, Virginia 23511
Phone: (757) 444-3136
DSN: 564-3136


 

 

 

Peninsula Branch Veterinary Services
Building 580 Jefferson Street
Fort Eustis, Virginia 23604
Phone: (757) 887-7272
DSN: 953-7272

National Capital District Veterinary Command
10002 Caples Road, Building 630
Fort Belvoir, Virginia 22060-5400
Phone: (703) 805-1043
DSN: 655-1043

Aberdeen Proving Ground Branch Veterinary Services
Building 2479
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland 21005
Phone: (410) 278-4604/4804
DSN: 298-4604/4804

Andrews Air Force Base Branch Veterinary Services
1781 Arnold Avenue
Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland 20762-6323
Phone: (240) 857-5464
DSN: 857-5464

Dover Air Force Base Branch Veterinary Services
U.S. Air Force Hospital Dover (SGV)
Dover Air Force Base, Delaware 19902-5300
Phone: (302) 677-5254/5252
DSN: 445-5254/5252

Forest Glen Branch Veterinary Services
Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Building 156
6900 Georgia Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20307-0004
Phone: (301) 295-7581
DSN: 295-7581

Fort Belvoir Branch Veterinary Services
10015 Theote Road, Suite 101
Fort Belvoir, Virginia 22060-5441
Phone: (703) 805-3350
DSN: 655-3350


 

 

Fort Meade Branch Veterinary Services
2480 Llewellyn Avenue
Fort Meade, Maryland 20755-5800

Phone: (301) 677-1316
DSN: 923-1316

Fort Myer Branch Veterinary Services
Building 238
Fort Myer, Virginia 22211
Phone: (703) 696-3606
DSN: 426-3606

 

Northeast District Veterinary Command
Building 876 Cocayne Avenue
Fort Monmouth, New Jersey 07703-5617
Phone: (732) 532-1680
DSN: 992-1680

Brunswick Naval Air Station Branch Veterinary Services
33 Canam Drive
Topsham, Maine 04086
Phone: (207) 921-2277
DSN: 476-2277

Fort Monmouth Branch Veterinary Services
Building 810 Murphy Drive
Fort Monmouth, New Jersey 07703-5000
Phone: (732) 532-1829
DSN: 992-1829

McGuire/Dix Branch Veterinary Services
Building 5250 New Jersey Avenue
Fort Dix, New Jersey 08640-6640
Phone: (609) 562-2433
DSN: 944-2433

New London Branch Veterinary Services
Building 411, Box 65, Naval Submarine Base
Groton, Connecticut 06349
Phone: (860) 694-3328/2980
DSN: 694-3328/2980

 

 

 

West Point Branch Veterinary Services
Building 630
West Point, New York 10996-1197
Phone: (914) 938-3010
DSN: 688-3010

 

Western Regional Veterinary Command Units

Western Regional Veterinary Command
Madigan Army Medical Center
Building 9783 McKinley Avenue
Tacoma, Washington 98431-1110
Phone: (253) 968-5528
DSN: 782-5528

Alaska District Veterinary Command
1060 Gaffney Road #7470
Fort Wainwright, Alaska 99703-7470
Phone: (907) 353-5484
DSN: 317-353-5484

Fort Richardson Branch Veterinary Services
600 Richardson Drive #7470
Fort Richardson, Alaska 99505-7470
Phone: (907) 353-2872
DSN: 317-384-2872

Fort Wainwright Branch Veterinary Services
1060 Gaffney Road #7470
Fort Wainwright, Alaska 97703-7470
Phone: (907) 353-2977
DSN: 317-353-2977

Northern California District Veterinary Command
700 East Roth Road, Box 36
French Camp, California 95231-9747
Phone: (209) 982-2417
DSN: 462-2417

Beale Branch Veterinary Services
17751 23rd Street, Building 25504
Beale AFB, California 95903-5000
Phone: (530) 634-2105
DSN: 368-2105


Lemoore Branch Veterinary Services
Building 780 Franklin Avenue
Lemoore NAS, California 93246
Phone: (559) 998-2757
DSN: 949-2757

Travis Branch Veterinary Services
David Grant Medical Center/SGV, Building 543
411 Lane Street
Travis AFB, California 94535-5300
Phone: (707) 424-2608
DSN: 837-2608

Tracy Branch Veterinary Services
700 East Roth Road, Box 36
French Camp, California 95231-9735
Phone: (209) 982-2416
DSN: 462-2416

Pacific Northwest District Veterinary Command
Madigan Army Medical Center
Building 9783 McKinley Avenue
Tacoma, Washington 98431-1110
Phone: (253) 968-5529
DSN: 782-5529

Fort Lewis Branch Veterinary Services

Madigan Army Medical Center
Tacoma, Washington 98431-1110
Phone: (253) 967-4705
DSN: 357-4705

Rainier Branch Veterinary Services
Building 769
McChord AFB, Washington 98438
Phone: (253) 982-9063
DSN: 382-9063

Olympic Branch Veterinary Services
Subase Bangor
Silverdale, Washington 98315
Phone: (360) 396-4447
DSN: 744-4447


 

 

Cascade Branch Veterinary Services
Smokey Point Commissary, Building 900
13900 45th Avenue NE
Marysville, Washington 98271
Phone: (360) 257-5534
DSN: 820-5534

Southern California District Veterinary Command
937 N Harbor Drive
San Diego, California 92130-0069
Phone: (858) 556-0544
DSN: 526-0554

San Diego Branch Veterinary Services
937 N Harbor Drive
San Diego, California 92130-0069
Phone: (858) 556-6253
DSN: 526-6253

West Coast Branch Veterinary Services
Marine Corps Base, Building 22103
PO Box 555230
Camp Pendleton, California 92055
Phone: (760) 725-4304
DSN: 365-4304

Mojave Branch Veterinary Services
Building 453
PO Box 105078
Fort Irwin, California 92310-5078
Phone: (760) 380-5185
DSN: 470-5185

 

Southeast Regional Veterinary Command Units

Southeast Regional Veterinary Command
505 North Range Road
Fort Gordon, Georgia
30905-5650
Phone: (706) 787-7841
DSN: 773-7841 FAX: 787-7491


 

 

Gulf Coast District Veterinary Command
Building 9400, Dust Off Road
Fort Rucker, Alabama 36362-5333
Phone: (334) 255-1144
DSN: 558-1144

Fort Benning Branch Veterinary Services
P.O. Box 56100, Bldg 265
10th Mountain Division Road
Fort Benning, Georgia 31905-6100
Phone: (706) 545-5660
DSN: 835-5660

Albany FI Section
DeCA Commissary
814 Radford Blvd, Suite 20327
Albany, GA 31704-0327
Phone: (229) 639-5867
DSN: 567-5867

Redstone Arsenal Branch Veterinary Services
Bldg, 3543, Shillelagh Road
Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898
Phone: (256) 876-5847
DSN: 746-5847

Robins Air Force Base Section
78th Medical Group/SPTG
Veterinary Section
655 7th Street, Bldg 703
Robins AFB, GA 31098-5300
Phone: (912) 327-8448
DSN: 497-8448

Pensacola Branch Veterinary Services
52 Turner Street
Bldg 626A
NAS Pensacola, FL 32508
Phone: (850) 452-8201
DSN: 922-8201


 

 

 

Whiting Field FL Section
Veterinary Section/Commissary Bldg
NAS Whiting Field
Milton, FL 32570
Phone: (850) 623-7131
DSN: 868-7131

Keesler AFB Section
Veterinary Service ATTN: MCVS-PK
Bldg 0408, 3rd Street
Keesler AFB, MS 39534
Phone: (228) 377-2086
DSN: 597-2086

Eglin Section
Veterinary Treatment Facility
201 Cherokee Ave, Bldg 888
Eglin AFB, FL 32542
Phone: (850) 882-4333
DSN: 872-4333

Tyndall Section
Tyndall Veterinary Treatment Facility
1309 Suwanee Road, Bldg 1309
Tyndall AFB, FL 32403-5721
Phone: (850) 283-2434
DSN: 523-2434

Fort Rucker Branch Veterinary Services
Building 7204
Fort Rucker, Alabama 36362-5333
Phone: (334) 255-3713
DSN: 558-3713

Maxwell Section VTF
151 S. Arnold Street
Maxwell AFB, AL 36112
Phone: (334) 953-7357
DSN: 493-7357

Meridian FI Section
431 Allen Road
Meridian, MS 39309-5609
Phone: (601) 679-3325 Ext 35
DSN: 637-3325 Ext 35

Moody AFB Section
Moody Veterinary Treatment Facility
Bldg 971 Georgia Road
Moody AFB, GA 31699-5000
Phone:

South Atlantic District Veterinary Command
459 West Bultman Avenue Suite 100
Fort Stewart, Georgia 31314-4915
Phone: (912) 767-5010
DSN: 870-5010

Fort Stewart Branch Veterinary Services
461 W. Bultman Ave
Fort Stewart, Georgia 31314-4915
Phone: (912) 767-3107
DSN: 870-3107

Hunter AAF Section
Hunter AAF Veterinary Section
1030 Perimeter Road, Bldg 1030
Hunter Army Airfield, GA 31309-5023
Phone: (912) 353-5602
DSN: 729-5602

Parris Island Section
Bldg 517A
517 Alaska Blvd
Parris Island, SC 29905-9560
Phone: (843) 228-3373
DSN: 335-3373

Jacksonville Branch Veterinary Services
PO Box 110
Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida 32212-0110
Phone: (904) 542-2878
DSN: 942-2878

Mayport Section
Mayport NS Veterinary Services
Bldg 460
NS Mayport, FL 32228-0243
Phone: (904) 270-7004
DSN: 960-7004


King's Bay Section
King's Bay Commissary
ATTN: Veterinary Inspector
1037 USS Daniel Boone
King's Bay Naval Base, GA 31547
Phone: (912) 573-3323
DSN: 573-3323

Guantanamo Bay Section
Veterinary Services
PSC 2005, Box 52
FPO AE 09593-0052
Phone: 011-53-99-2212
DSN: 660-2212

Patrick AFB Branch Veterinary Services
1407 Edward H. White II Street
Bldg 408
Patrick AFB, FL 32925-3214
Phone: (321) 494-8020
DSN: 854-8020

MacDill Air Force Base Services
PO Box 6057
MacDill Air Force Base, Florida 33608-0057
Phone: (813) 828-3560
DSN: 968-3560

Key West Section
Bldg 4911
ATTN: Veterinary Inspector
811 Sigsby Road
NAS Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 293-4403
DSN: 483-4403

Fort Buchanan Section
Fort Buchanan Veterinary Services
Bldg 676
Fort Buchanan, PR 00934-5760
Phone: (787) 707-3062
DSN: 740-3062


 

Tennessee Valley District Veterinary Command
650 Joel Drive
Fort Campbell, Kentucky 42223-5349
Phone: (270) 798-4117
DSN: 635-4117

Fort Campbell Branch Veterinary Services
650 Joel Drive
Fort Campbell, Kentucky 42223-5349
Phone: (270) 798-5789
DSN: 635-5789

Evansville MRE
Ameriqual Packaging
ATTN: Army Vet Inspectors
225 West Morgan Ave
Evansville, IN 47710
Phone: (812) 452-4309 ext 251

Millington Branch Veterinary Services
5722 Integrity Drive
Millington, TN 38054-5004
Phone: (901) 874-5421
DSN: 882-5421

Little Rock AFB Section
Veterinary Services
314 Med Gr SGV
3701 Arnold Drive
Little Rock AFB, AR 72099
Phone: (501) 987-7250

Fort Jackson Branch Veterinary Services
USAMEDDAC, Box 202
4500 Stuart Street
Fort Jackson, SC 29207-5720
Phone: (803) 751-5132
DSN: 734-5132

Charleston Section
Veterinary Treatment Facility
107 Scarton Lane, Bldg 648
Charleston, SC 29404
Phone: (843) 963-4269


Mullins MRE Section
SOPAKCO
119 South Cypress Street
Mullins, SC 29574
Phone: (834) 464-7851 ext 103/112

Atlanta Branch Veterinary Services
Veterinary Treatment Facility
1670 Hardee Ave, SW
Fort McPherson, GA 30330-1058
Phone: (404) 464-2651

Fort Gordon Section Veterinary Services
ATTN: MCVS-SER-G
500 North Range Road
Fort Gordon, Georgia 30905-5650
Phone: (706) 787-7375
DSN: 773-7375

 

Pacific Regional Veterinary Command Units

Pacific Regional Veterinary Command
Building 102 Room 107
1 Jarrett White Road
Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii 96859-5000
Phone: (808) 433-6623

Central Pacific District Veterinary Command
Building 435 Pierce Road, Fort Shafter
Honolulu, Hawaii 96858
Phone: (808) 433-2273

Fort Shafter Branch Veterinary Services
Honolulu, Hawaii
Phone: (808) 433-1972

Kaneohe MCBH Branch Veterinary Services
Hawaii
(808) 257-1717

Hickam Air Force Base Branch Veterinary Services
Hawaii
Phone: (808) 449-6587


 

Schofield Barracks Branch Veterinary Services
Hawaii
Phone: (808) 433-8540

Japan District Veterinary Command
APO AP 96343-5005
Phone: (011) 813-11763-3317
DSN: 263-3317

Camp Zama Branch Veterinary Services
Japan
Phone: (011) 813-11763-5913
DSN: 263-5913

Iwakuni Marine Corps Air Station Branch Veterinary Services
Japan
Phone: (011) 813-11753-4622
DSN: 253-4622

Misawa Air Force Base Branch Veterinary Services
Japan
Phone: (011) 813-11766-3917
DSN: 226-3917

Okinawa Branch Veterinary Services
C/O 18th Medical Group SGV
APO AP 96368-5000
Phone: (011) 816-11734-6032
DSN: 634-6032

Yokosuka Naval Base Branch Veterinary Services
Japan
Phone: (011) 813-11743-8862
DSN: 243-8862

Yokota Air Force Base Branch Veterinary Services
Japan
Phone: (011) 813-11725-4363
DSN: 225-4363

Western Pacific District Veterinary Command
PSC 455 Box 197
FPO AP 96540-1197
Phone: (671) 339-3040


Anderson Air Force Base Branch Veterinary Services
Guam
Phone: (671) 366-2447/3314

Naval Branch Veterinary Services
Guam
Phone: (671) 366-2447/3314

New Zealand Branch Veterinary Services
PSC 467 Box 108
FPO AP 96531-2000
Phone: (011) 643-358-1408

Singapore Branch Veterinary Services
U.S. NRC Singapore
PSC 470 Box 2100
FPO AP 96534-2100
Phone: (011) 65-750-2516

 

Great Plains Regional Veterinary Command Units

Great Plains Regional Veterinary Command
2410 Stanley Road
Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234-6230
Phone: (210) 295-2465
DSN: 421-2465

North Plains District Veterinary Command
833 McClellan Avenue
Fort Leavenworth, Kansas 66027-2327
Phone: (913) 684-6506
DSN: 552-6506

Fort Leavenworth Branch Veterinary Services
831 McClellan Avenue
Fort Leavenworth, Kansas 6027-2327
Phone: (913) 684-6519
DSN: 552-6519

Fort Leonard Wood Branch Veterinary Services
310 Freedom Drive
Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri 65473-8922
Phone: (573) 596-0523
DSN: 581-0523


Fort Riley Branch Veterinary Services
600 Caisson Hill Road
Fort Riley, Kansas 66442-5037
Phone: (785) 239-2732
DSN: 856-2732

Rocky Mountain District Veterinary Command
1661 O'Connell Boulevard, Building 1012
Fort Carson, Colorado 80913-5108
Phone: (719) 526-1216
DSN: 691-1216

Denver Branch Veterinary Services
Building 228, US Army Garrison Fitzsimons
12101E Colfax Avenue

Aurora, Colorado 80045-5000
Phone: (303) 365-3137

Fort Bliss Branch Veterinary Services
William Beaumont Army Medical Center Box 70010
5005 North Piedras
El Paso, Texas 79920-5001
Phone: (915) 568-0265
DSN: 978-0265

Fort Carson Branch Veterinary Services
1661 O'Connell Boulevard, Building 1012
Fort Carson, Colorado 80913-5108
Phone: (719) 524-4115
DSN: 883-4115

Fort Huachuca Branch Veterinary Services
U.S. Army Medical Department Activity
Fort Huachuca, Arizona 85613-7040
Phone: (520) 533-3204
DSN: 821-3204

Hill Air Force Base Branch Veterinary Services
7457 8th Street, Building 401
Hill Air Force Base, Utah 84056-5012
Phone: (801) 777-2969
DSN: 777-2969


 

 

South Plains District Veterinary Command
80th and Engineer Street, Building 4905
Fort Hood, Texas 76544-4752
Phone: (254) 287-7606
DSN: 737-7606

Fort Hood Branch Veterinary Services
Building 4905 80th and Spur Drive
Fort Hood, Texas 76544-5063
Phone: (254) 288-3052
DSN: 738-3052

Louisiana Branch Veterinary Services
1585 3rd Street
Fort Polk, Louisiana 71459-5110
Phone: (318) 531-2132
DSN: 863-2132

Oklahoma Branch Veterinary Services
Building 721 Macomb Road
Fort Sill, Oklahoma 73503-6300
Phone: (580) 442-3602
DSN: 639-3602

South Texas District Veterinary Command
2332 Harney Road
Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234-1303
Phone: (210) 295-4034
DSN: 421-4034

Corpus Christi Branch Veterinary Services
10651 E Street
Corpus Christi Naval Air Station, Texas 78419-5131
Phone: (316) 961-3952
DSN: 861-3952

Fort Sam Houston Branch Veterinary Services
2332 Harney Road
Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234-1303
Phone: (210) 295-4019
DSN: 421-4019