Relocating is a familiar part of military life. Each move is an opportunity to start fresh, explore new communities, and make new friends. Yet, it also presents a recurring dilemma: to purge or not to purge. This question goes beyond mere physical belongings. It touches on how we adapt to change and manage the continuity of our lives across different landscapes. Though daunting, this process can also be deeply cathartic, offering a moment of introspection and a chance to reassess what truly matters. Family spoke with army spouse Joanne Bates Crimmins, who is married to Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Crimmins, and they are currently stationed at Ft. Detrick, Maryland. How many times have your PCS'd? My husband has PCSd six times, and I have been with him for 4 of them. Do you think purging is essential? Why or why not? Purging is so important to us. We also keep our prominent and pricey purchases to a minimum because we always have the next duty station in mind. We also purge throughout the year, making it easier on ourselves. I get rid of most everything that is broken or needs repairing, especially if it’s not a necessary item to make our household run. I also sell and donate items. But the number one reason we purge is that there is less to unpack. We believe it saves us time, headaches, and energy. And when you’re PCSing, there are always challenges you’d never anticipate, so it frees up your mental energy as well.
What have been the benefits or drawbacks of purging? While my husband has never regretted purging, I have only regretted one or two things. However, I remind myself it can usually be replaced. One benefit of purging is that it does not incur unnecessary costs like storage rentals. Another significant benefit of purging is that you can find things and organize items easier if you have less stuff. I’ve realized how little we need to have a satisfying life.
Do you have anything to add to those who are considering relocating and trying to decide whether or not to purge?
Get the entire family involved because it can be time-consuming, overwhelming, or draining. It will take some time, but you can chip away at it one room, drawer, closet, and cupboard at a time. You can set a goal to work on purging for 30 minutes a day, for example, then set a timer and be done when your alarm goes off. Know your limits and know that the move will come regardless of how much or how little you’ve done. If you haven’t done all you wanted to, that’s ok. You can save it for the next duty station when you’re unpacking. We also keep a box or bag designated for donations to make it easier. And if you’re purging, please remember to donate to the thrift shop at your duty station. Knowing that someone else can benefit from your effort can be an excellent feeling. I also remember Marie Condo [sic], who said that when you’re getting rid of something, thank the item for what it provided for you and let it go.