GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — Halloween is gaining popularity in Germany, with many local nationals celebrating it in the same fashion as those living in the United States. But before Halloween, Germans long celebrated a similar holiday in April, called Hexennacht. Halloween was introduced to Germany in the 1990s, according to…
By Christa Rolls, USAG Bavaria Environmental Division GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — If you have been in a local car shop, you’ve likely seen products that tout a hissing, ferret-like animal on the front cover, warning of their presence. Martens, or Marder in German, notoriously damage vehicle electrical systems…
By U.S. Army Customs Agency-Europe WIESBADEN, Germany — People new to Europe should note that many items available in Europe may seem like good Christmas presents, but violate U.S. customs rules. Some products are banned from the United States and others may only be carried in baggage, but…
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — The Supplementary agreement to the NATO Status of Forces Agreement affords some tax breaks to personnel under orders to be in Germany. Department of Defense personnel stationed in or temporarily assigned to Europe may be eligible to use the U.S. Forces Tax-Relief Program to avoid paying…
By Christa Rolls, USAG Bavaria Environmental Division GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — Now that autumn is upon us and the days are getting colder, animals of all kinds, including us humans, seek warmer locales to survive the blustery cold. One such creature we’re likely to find more often in…
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — An overseas move with the military can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to rights, responsibilities and individual logistic support in a new country. Understanding how the Status of Forces Agreement affects you, as well as some basic differences in law between the U.S. and Germany, will…
By Julie Aliaga-Milos, USEUCOM Agriculture Advisor The United States Department of Agriculture restricts or prohibits the entry of many agricultural products, which can carry foreign pests and diseases that harm American agriculture and our environment. A major pest or disease outbreak could mean higher grocery bills, shortages…
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — As contracts often come with pages of conditions and laws are different in each country, it is necessary to read and understand the terms of contracts you sign. Here is what you need to know about mobile, home or internet contracts in your local area…
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany – Vilseck used to be a border town in the bishop’s district, and charged toll fees for people passing the city of Vilseck in a time when the night watchman announced the hour several times throughout the night and day. Vilseck’s rich history dates back to 930…
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — A small, tightly-wound book with pages primed for international stamps and the promise of adventure, the passport is perhaps the single most important object for smooth and lawful travel across borders. Three types of passports are important for DOD personnel and families stationed in Germany:…