All commands can learn about opportunities to save millions of dollars through reutilization of government surplus property during the first-ever DRMO "Open House" at Sagami Depot, Japan. It’s scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday.

Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office Sagami processes surplus assets and equipment in new or good condition from every branch of service and base in mainland Japan, including the U.S. Embassy. The organization holds all surplus property for 42 days in an effort to maximize its reuse.

DRMO Sagami wants to "peel back the perception that we only process scrap," Don Helle, a disposal service representative, said in a news release.

"You cannot assume you know what a DRMO does by driving by the perimeter fence," he added.

According to Helle, DRMO Sagami has $32 million worth of "A" condition assets — which are brand new in unopened boxes — available for free issue. In fiscal year 2008, for example, it distributed seven cases of copy machine paper at no charge.

Boots, field gear, diapers, sunglasses, hospital supplies, flat-screen monitors, laptop computers, digital cameras, tires, office chairs, lumber and sheet metal are among the items in DRMO Sagami’s inventory.

For more information, contact Helle at DSN 268-4472 or via e-mail at don.helle@dla.mil.