MCB Quantico MCCS develops app for quarantined Marines

Courtesy Photo | Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) Vending Section prepares and delivers essential goods to quarantined Marines through their Curbside Pickup phone application at Marine Corps Base Quantico July 10. 2020. This service allows quarantined Marines access to goods that are otherwise not accessible. The app, developed by MCCS, allows quarantined Marines to order essential goods via their cell phones which are then delivered by MCCS Marines and employees. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl Addysyn H. Tobar)  

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, VA, UNITED STATES

08.04.2020

Courtesy Story

Marine Corps Base Quantico

In the midst of a global pandemic, Marines and civilian employees with Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico stepped up to ensure the safety of the base’s residents.

In March, when the United States declared a national emergency in regards to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Marines, FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) instituted quarantine protocols for people checking in and beginning training. In the early stages, it was a challenge getting supplies like hygiene products, clothing and food, to the people in quarantine.

A team of Marines and civilians at MCCS adapted to the situation and found a way to get supplies more quickly and efficiently to the people in need while continuing to adhere to necessary safety measures. Through the development of an application, or app, quarantined personnel on MCB Quantico can now request supplies through phones or other electronic devices. The MCCS team also changed the delivery process, reducing the risk of exposure during the 14-day quarantine.

“When I run out of something that I cannot ask duty for, the app makes it easier. It keeps me sane,” explained Lance Cpl. Jacob Dwayne Davis, during his quarantine status.

Ordering through the app, is very similar to ordering through other popular apps. In this case, people under student, trainee or COVID-19 positive quarantine status first create an account. They can then search for things like hygiene supplies, cleaning supplies, uniform items, and food and drinks. After registering and finding the needed supplies, the user places and pays for the order. Once the order is in the system, the MCCS Vending Section moves into action - gathering and bagging the supplies, loading them onto trucks, and heading out for delivery.

Before developing the app and streamlining the process, considerable time was spent compiling lists of supplies and organizing the deliveries. According to Master Sgt. Donald Tubbs Jr., MCCS Retail and Services Chief, it was clear something had to change. “We realized we needed to change our plan and to adjust fire as needed in order to overcome challenges like safety and efficiency,” he said.

The innovative changes have added more safety and efficiency in supporting quarantined personnel. Through use of the app and an improved contactless delivery process the MCCS team continues to do their part to ensure the missions and day-to-day operations of the many commands and organizations aboard MCB Quantico continue safely.

After seeing the success at Quantico, other places like Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, have begun to look into its use.

• Date Taken: 08.04.2020
• Date Posted: 08.17.2020 08:19
• Story ID: 375229
• Location: MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, VA, US