Thunderstorm damage: Some may be eligible to file claims against MPCECA Published Oct. 11, 2011 By Sheppard Law Office SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- A severe thunderstorm ripped through Sheppard Sept. 17, 2011. During the thunderstorm there were wind gusts of more than 70 miles per hour that caused significant property damage on Sheppard. If any personal property was damaged during this storm, some may be eligible to file a claim against the Air Force under the Military Personnel and Civilian Employee's Claims Act (MPCECA). The Air Force Claims Service Center (AFCSC) is responsible for determining eligibility and paying claims under the MPCECA. There are two ways to file a claim. One way is to file a claim directly with the AFCSC by going to https://claims.jag.af.mil and clicking the "File Non-Household Goods Claim" button. The other option for those who do not want to file a claim online, can go to the Sheppard Law Center and receive help to forward the appropriate documents to the AFCSC. Before filing a claim the following is a list of things to be aware of: · Only Air Force active duty, reserve, and Air National Guard members and some Air Force civilian employees can file a claim with the AFCSC (servicemembers or employees of the Army, Navy, or Marine Corps may be able to file a claim with their own service) · If the property was covered by a private insurance policy, the owner must exhaust all of their insurance benefits before filing a claim · The Air Force will only pay for damage to personal property, not real estate · Document and take pictures of all damages · It is recommended to have any property inspected before having it repaired; contact either the AFCSC or the Sheppard Law Center to arrange for an inspection For any questions about the claims process, call the Sheppard Law Center at 676-4262 or the AFCSC at DSN 986-8044 (dial 1) or 1-877-754-1212 (dial 1).