CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – The Camp Johnson Military Post Office at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune inaugurated its first Secure Delivery Center (SDC) during a ribbon-cutting event on October 22. This new facility offers unaccompanied service members direct access to mail delivery and package collection, operating around the clock.
Brig. Gen. Andre M. Ingram, the commanding general of Marine Corps Installations East-MCB Camp Lejeune, underscored the significance of the SDC during his address at the ceremony. He emphasized that enhancing the quality of life for Marines is essential, noting that even simple services like mail can have a profound impact.
“Readiness begins at our installations with the conditions we create for our people to live, train and serve,” Ingram stated. He added that every improvement, regardless of size, enhances service members’ focus on their missions, which always remains the top priority.
Enhanced Mail Services for Service Members
The SDC operates similarly to a post office box but does not impose any fees on users. Unlike traditional unit mailrooms that require intermediaries, the SDC allows service members to receive their mail directly. It features large parcel lockers that enable 24/7 access for package pickup.
Service members will receive email alerts notifying them when they have mail to collect and will be informed whenever an item is placed in their locker.
CWO4 Michael Atkins, the region postal director for MCIEAST-MCB Camp Lejeune, remarked that the SDC significantly enhances mail accessibility for Marines and Sailors, who previously depended on unit mailrooms for their correspondence.
“SDCs provide the same level of service our accompanied service members enjoy at their homes,” Atkins noted.
A Step Towards Broader Postal Services
The introduction of the SDC also relieves units from the responsibility of managing unit mailrooms. Atkins suggested that while the launch of the Camp Johnson SDC may appear minor, it represents progress toward a more extensive initiative.
“I believe we owe it to our Marines and Sailors to expand this type of postal service, making it available to all our single service members throughout MCIEAST,” he added.
The MCIEAST Consolidated Postal System is currently working on proposals to establish additional SDCs at MCB Camp Lejeune, Marine Corps Air Station New River, and other locations in the region, aiming to extend these services to all unaccompanied service members.
Source: Marine Corps Installations East via DVIDS
