Passport your way beyond the U.S. borders.

I'll assume that most Space-A passengers have their passports already.  However, if you don't have yours, these tips could come in handy.

• Space-A passengers must have a passport for traveling to overseas destinations.  Your military ID and leave forms are simply not enough.   Get a U.S. Passport to see the world - because you really didn't intend to just stay on the base did you?
• Passports will currently run you $95 for a passport card and book plus a $25 facility fee.  Passport photos are not included.  However, many passport acceptance facilities will take your picture for another fee anywhere between ~$10 - $15.  I would highly recommend that you let the facility who is processing your passport take your picture instead of you trying to fulfill the photo requirements yourself with your handy digital camera.  Pay the ten bucks and save yourself from a huge headache.
• You will need to hand over your proof of U.S. citizenship to the person processing your passport.  So, be sure that you don't need your original birth certificate for a few weeks while the state department has it.  Don't worry, you will get it back though!  It will be mailed back to you separate from your passport for security reasons.
• When you do receive your passport, sign it in ink where designated.  But complete your emergency contact information in pencil.  Emergency contacts may change - therefore signing in pencil is a good idea in case you need to update them.
• Make a copy of your passport and store it separately from your original.  It's also a good idea to give a copy of it, along with a copy of your driver's license and military ID, to your emergency contact while you're out traveling the world.
• Don't bend your passport.  It's got a computer chip embedded in it that securely stores your passport data that allows for automated identity verification, faster immigration inspections and greater border protection and security.  In other words, you'll be able to get through customs faster if you get in line wherever you see this symbol:

And finally, you'll be so proud and excited at the prospect of traveling the world with your new-found freedom of your passport that you'll want to get a snazzy passport holder or travel wallet.