Hidden Wounds of War Conference
The Soldiers Project, a group of volunteer mental health professionals that offers its services to troops and their extended families, will host a conference May 16-18, 2008 in Los Angeles for military members who have served in the global war on terror and those who interact with them. The conference theme is "Hidden Wounds of War: Pathways to Healing." Conference speakers will focus on everything from the impact of war on the Soldier and family to challenges facing therapists who counsel military personnel and families. Those interested in attending the conference can visit (http://www.thesoldiersproject.org/) The Soldier's Project website to register for a discount before April 18 at 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
New Fisher Houses Opening
The Department of Veterans Affairs is planning new Fisher Houses to open soon in Chicago, St. Louis, Minneapolis, and Washington. Fisher Houses are built through public donations and contributions from the Fisher House Foundation. VA assumes responsibility for operating costs of the finished homes. Currently, VA has Fisher Houses in Albany, N.Y.; Bay Pines, Fla.; Cincinnati; Denver; Houston; Minneapolis; Palo Alto, Calif.; West Palm Beach and Tampa, Fla. with new houses coming soon in Los Angeles, Seattle, Dallas, and Richmond, Va. and Boston. For more information, visit the (http://www.fisherhouse.org/) Fisher House website.
New AF 24-Hour Assistance Center
The 24-hour Air Force Contact Center at the Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) employs a tier system to help Airmen fix their personnel problems from a computer or a telephone. The first step in the tier is to visit the (http://ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil/) AFPC "Ask" website. The website contains a wealth of personnel information and services that would have been available only at a MPF in the past. If the website does not answer your question, call the Center 800-616-3775 anytime where a customer service representative will assist you. Assistance by telephone is available 24-hours a day across the world.
VA Reaches Out to Women Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs has created a comprehensive array of benefits and programs for women veterans. VA has several specific initiatives for 2008 including: (1) enhancing skills of primary care providers who treat women veterans; (2) examining other women's health issues, including cardiac care, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer in women; and (3) focusing on family issues and avoiding birth defects through enhanced pharmacy practices for women veterans of child bearing age. For more information about VA benefits and services, veterans may contact their local VA regional office, medical center, or vet center. For questions concerning VA benefits call 1-800-827-1000, for questions concerning VA health care call 1-877-222-8387, or visit the (http://www.va.gov/) VA website.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/va-reaches-out-to-women-veterans.html) Read the full article on Military.com.
Women Marines Association Convention
The 25th Biennial Women Marines Association Convention and Professional Development Conference will be held Aug. 28- Sept. 3, 2008 at the Westin Galleria Hotel in Houston, Texas. Online registration is available at the (http://www.womenmarines.org/) Women Marines Association website. Hotel reservations can be made by calling (713) 960-8100 (http://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=0703261673&key=8786D) or online.
Reservists May Face Tour Limit
Later this year hundreds of reservists nationwide could reach the limit on the number of man-days they can serve in Air Force Reserve Command. Reservists through the rank of colonel can serve up to 1,095 man-days of the previous 1,460 days in a rolling four-year calendar. It's predicted that 2,000 reservists on Military Personnel Appropriation man-day orders or Reserve Personnel Appropriation man-day orders will reach or exceed 1,095 days by September 2008. If a reservist reaches 1,095 days in a 1,460-day period, a waiver is required to work beyond the 1,095 days. The Air Force plans to publish the results of this round of waivers in June 2008.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/air-force-news/reservists-may-face-limit-on-tours.html) Read the full article at Military.com.
Air Force Assists Civilian Pilots
Air Combat Command officials are reaching out to private civilian pilots by publicizing a website designed to prevent mid-air collisions with military aircraft. The (http://www.seeandavoid.org/) See and Avoid website allows users to locate their flight path and determine how they can avoid flying through military operating areas. The website gives tips about when and where military aircraft fly, their maneuvers, and how to avoid a mid-air collision. The best advantage of the website is that users don't have to consult multiple sources or websites to plan a route. The site also pinpoints where near misses and mid-air collisions have occurred and highlights areas that are more prone to accidents.
Semper Fit Seeks Triathlon Applications
Semper Fit is seeking applications for the All-Marine Triathlon Team, which will compete at the Armed Forces Triathlon Championship May 28-June 1, 2008 at Naval Base Ventura County in Pt. Magu, Calif. Interested Marines should submit their applications to HQMC (MRS) no later than April 30, 2008. Applications can be found at the (http://www.usmc-mccs.org/SPORTS/%20target=) MCCS Sports webpage and must contain a command endorsement along with all competition results from the past two years. Team selections will be made based on the most competitive/recent race times relevant to the Olympic distance. Marines stationed at a command with a local MCCS Semper Fit must submit their application through the athletic director.
(http://www.military.com/military-fitness/) For PT and nutritional support, check out that Fitness Center.
Exercises for Disabled Vets
Stew Smith has written an article focused on helping disabled veterans and amputees keep in shape. The article teaches disabled vets how they can use a variety of creative ways to perform many of the same exercises or at least work the same muscle groups they used to before their injuries. (http://www.military.com/military-fitness/workouts/exercises-for-disabled-vets) Read the full article at Military.com.
Army's Post-Deployment Recruiter Duty
The Army announced that a test of the new Chief of Staff of the Army Special Recruiter Assistance Program (CSA-SRAP) will begin in May. The CSA-SRAP pilot program differs from the current SRAP in two ways. First, CSA-SRAP will now require commands to screen and select Soldiers for special recruiter assistance during funded Temporary Duty Status. Second, under the CSA-SRAP pilot, Soldiers' spouses are authorized and encouraged to accompany them on invitational travel orders. The SRAP program was developed to give qualified Soldiers returning from Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom the opportunity to tell their stories to local communities throughout the U.S. For more information on the CSA-SRAP, visit the (http://www.2k.army.mil/) Support Army Recruiting website.
Featured Job: Transition Careers
Change your call sign, not your calling. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//jobview.monster.com/GetJob.aspx%3FJobID%3D66803137%26JobTitle%3DJoin+America%27s+fastest+growing+law+enforcement+team+as+a+U.S.+Border+Patrol+Agent.%26q%3D66803195%26brd%3D1%26cy%3Dus%26vw%3Db%26AVSDM%3D2008-01-21+13%253a49%253a00%26pg%3D1%26seq%3D1&code=MR_040708_job) Become a Border Patrol Agent, and protect America as part of an organization with one of the best reputations in all of law enforcement.
Salad Dressing Recalled
Kraft Foods announced a voluntary recall of certain cases of its 16-ounce Roasted Red Pepper Italian with Parmesan Dressing and Marinade because some of the product has spoiled. As a result, the Defense Commissary Agency removed from all affected products its shelves. Commissary customers can return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. For any questions regarding this recall, consumers can contact Kraft Consumer Response at 1-800-847-1997.
ThanksUSA Scholarships
ThanksUSA, in a charitable effort to mobilize Americans of all ages to "thank" active-duty troops by providing college scholarships to their spouses and dependents, today opened its third year accepting applications for scholarships. Interested applicants can find more information, eligibility requirements and the official application form at (http://www.thanksusa.org/) www.ThanksUSA.org. Applications will be accepted from April 1 through May 15, 2008.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/thanksusa-scholarships-spouses-and-dependents.html) Read the full article at Military.com.
Remember: Not applying for scholarships is like turning down free money. Get started on your search for scholarships today - visit the Military.com (http://aid.military.com/scholarship/search-for-scholarships.do) Scholarship Finder.
Marine Corps Seeks Award Nominations
The Marine Corps is soliciting nominations for the NAACP's 2008 Roy Wilkins Renown Service Award. Commanders and supervisors may nominate deserving Marines and civilians for the award. Electronic package nominations must be received by the CMC (MPE) POC by May 21, 2008 and may be mailed to 3280 Russell Road, Quantico, VA 22134 or Faxed to 703-784-9814.
Deal of the Week: Save up to 12%
As a government employee, you're eligible for Dell's exclusive member discounts. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//www.dell.com/atg/military13&code=MR_040708_deal) These discounts are on top of most generally advertised Dell promotions.
Thrift Savings Plan: A Benefit for Life
The Federal (http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/thrift-savings-plan) Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) provides ease of savings and tax benefits like civilian employer 401k plans. TSP allows servicemembers the opportunity to make tax-free savings contributions directly from their salary. Investment options vary and their contributions and earned interest remain tax exempt until funds are withdrawn at age 59-and-a-half. However, only two out of three military members don't take advantage of the government-run Thrift Savings Plan. Those who decline this benefit miss out on the opportunity of investing for their retirement. Learn more about this valuable benefit, (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,165179,00.html) read the full article at Military.com.
COLA Increases in Europe
Troops in European countries where the euro is used as the local currency will see a small increase in their cost-of-living allowances (COLA) due to the falling value of the U.S. dollar. Most areas in Germany will see an increase of two points, although troops in some places, including Freiburg, Bremerhaven, Mecklenburg and Hanover, will get a four-point boost. Troops in Brussels and Antwerp, Belgium, will also see a four-point increase. For more information on the Overseas Cost of Living Allowances, visit the Per Diem, (http://perdiem.hqda.pentagon.mil/perdiem/allowcol.html) Travel and Transportation Allowance Committee website.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/cola-rises-for-troops-in-nations-that-use-the-euro.html) Read the full article at Military.com.
TRICARE Continues Cancer Trials
A new agreement signed between the Department of Defense (DoD) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) will allow TRICARE-eligible cancer patients to take part in NCI-sponsored cancer clinical and prevention trials. For more information about the trials, TRICARE beneficiaries should speak with their oncologist. For information on TRICARE cancer clinical trials benefit and authorization, contact your respective TRICARE Cancer Clinical Trials Coordinator: (1) TRICARE North Region, Palmetto Government Benefits Administrators (PGBA), (800) 395-7821; (2) TRICARE South Region, PGBA, (800) 779-3060; (3) TRICARE West Region, TriWest, (866) 427-6610; and (4) TRICARE for Life, Wisconsin Physicians Services, (608) 301-3243.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/tricare-continues-nci-cancer-trials.html) Read the full article at Military.com.
New Overseas Voter Services Site
The Overseas Vote Foundation (OVF) announced a new website that will provide user-friendly voter services to uniformed services members and their families. The new (https://military.overseasvotefoundation.org/) OVF website that provides the full complement of automated voter services offered by OVF including voter registration/ballot request, election official directory services, voter help desk, state-specific voter information directory, write-in ballot and My Voter Account services. Visit the Military.com (http://electioncenter.military.com/) 2008 Election Center to learn more.
New Benefits Handbook Available
A new edition of the handbook "Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents" by the Department of Veterans Affairs updates the rates for certain federal payments and outlines a variety of programs and benefits for American veterans along with a listing of toll-free phone numbers, Internet addresses and a directory of VA facilities throughout the country. The 2008 edition of the 153-page booklet also provides an overview of programs and services for veterans provided by other federal agencies. The handbook can be (http://www.va.gov/OPA/vadocs/current_benefits.asp) downloaded for free from VA's website.
Combat-Related Compensation Changes
The 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes changes to expand eligibility to include certain medical retirees. Amendments to Chapter 61 expand eligibility to medical retirees with less than 20 years of service and a combat-related VA disability rating of 10 percent or greater. Retired veterans must still provide documentation that shows a link between a current VA disability and a combat related event. (http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/special-pay/combat-related-special-compensation) Learn more at Military.com.
Corps Joins Better Business Bureau
The Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) and the U.S. Marine Corps have established the BBB Marine Corps Line, which is part of the greater BBB Military Line program. This service is designed to serve the specialized consumer needs of Marine Corps personnel and their families. BBB Marine Corps Line brings the full resources of BBB to the Marine Corps consumer, no matter where that person is located, (http://us.bbb.org/WWWRoot/SitePage.aspx?site=113&id=577b6932-4465-489c-8bff-33ebe056c7ec) through its website. On the website, Marines can access educational tools on credit and investing, news and tips on consumer issues, and links to look up reliability reports on businesses or file a complaint with BBB.
New Exchange Jewelry Catalog Available
The Spring/Summer 2008 Exchange Jewelry Catalog features rings, watches, earrings and pendants. The 2008 Spring/Summer Jewelry catalog is available at all main stores and online at aafes.com. Prices in this all-services catalog are valid April 2 - Aug. 29, 2008, for any authorized exchange customer. Orders can be placed by mail, fax or phone. Toll-free orders can be placed from the U.S., Puerto Rico or Guam at 800-527-2345 around the clock, seven days a week.
Navy's New PT Uniforms
The Navy introduced its new physical training uniform (PTU) to the world, in a photo shoot, March 20-21. The PTU consist of a gold shirt with reflective Navy lettering and blue shorts with Navy lettering and reflective markings. The new uniforms will be required for all group and unit physical training (PT) in the Navy, as well as the semi-annual physical fitness tests. View the new uniforms in the Military.com (http://www.military.com/military-fitness/navy-fitness/navy-introduces-new-pt-uniforms) Fitness Center.
Summit on Women Veterans Issues
Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Peake announced the Fourth National Summit on Women Veterans Issues to be held from June 20 - 22 in Washington D.C. The Summit will offer attendees an opportunity to enhance future progress on women veterans issues, with sessions specifically for the Reserve and National Guard, information on military sexual trauma and re-adjustment issues, after the military veteran resources and many more programs and exhibits. For more information on the summit, visit (http://www1.va.gov/womenvet/) VA's Center for Women's Veterans website.
Choose Homeownership
The rewards of owning your own home include many benefits unavailable to renters. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//www.military.com/Finance/content/0%2C15356%2C165244%2C00.html&code=MR_040708_WellsFargo) Learn more about the financial benefits and responsibilities of homeownership.
New REAP Monthly Verification
Starting this April all Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP) participants will be required to verify their monthly attendance in order to receive payment. Like other GI Bill participants, REAP participants can do this online at the (https://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/) Web Automated Verification of Enrollment (WAVE) website or by calling the VA automated verification line at 877-823-2378 (877 VA-ECERT). Participants normally must wait until the last calendar day of the month to verify attendance. However, those who attend classes for less than a month may verify their attendance anytime after their enrollment ends. (http://education.military.com/money-for-school/reserve/gi-bill/reserve-education-assistance-program-reap) Learn more about REAP.
Interested in using your education benefits? (http://schools.military.com/schoolfinder/search-for-schools.do) Find the right school for you.
Commissaries Highlight Food Safety
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) will highlight awareness of proper food handling and cooking measures in all its stores throughout the month of April 2008. Customers will see displays and demonstrations with store personnel and military food safety inspectors on hand to answer questions on how customers can protect themselves and their families when they take food home. DeCA will also announce its participation in Be Food Safe, a government program to help educate consumers about the four steps of preventing food-borne illnesses in the kitchen: cleaning, separating, cooking and chilling foods. For more information on keeping your food safe, visit DeCA's Food Safety webpage.
Free Legal Session in Massachusetts
The Massachusetts Bar Association is offering a free session of its monthly Dial-A-Lawyer programs that will be dedicated solely to veterans' legal questions. The free program will run on Wed., April 9, 2008 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nearly half a million veterans live in Massachusetts, many of whom have pressing legal questions concerning benefits, divorce, child support, employment and landlord-tenant issues. The Dial-A-Lawyer phone number, active only between 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on April 9, is 617-338-0610. If a caller gets a busy signal, he will be asked to hang up and try again. Normal telephone charges will apply.
Marine BIG Award Nominees Needed
Nominees are being sought for the Blacks in Government (BIG) Meritorious Service Award. Commanders and supervisors are encouraged to nominate deserving Marines and civilian employees for this award. Electronic package submissions for Marines must be received by the CMC (MPE) POC (mailto:ruth.allen@usmc.mil) ruth.allen@usmc.mil by June 18, 2008. Hard copies may be mailed to 3280 Russell Road, Quantico, Va. 22134-5103 or Faxed to 703-784-9814. CMC (MPE) will conduct a special emphasis awards board to select the honorees.
2008 Federal Employee Media Survey
The goal of this survey to better understand the role that active duty servicemen and women play in the approval and acquisition of products and services for government, as well as preferred media habits.
This survey will take less than five minutes of your time. We value your input and sincerely hope that you will share your thoughts with us. Results are completely confidential. (http://vp-nri.com/take/?i=127642&h=EXAvIOs_9bj6ehy86afzzA) Please start here...
Tuition Assistance Top-Up Program
Top-Up is a program that allows GI Bill participants' to use the GI Bill to supplement the tuition and fees not covered by tuition assistance. The amount of the benefit can be equal to the difference between the total cost of a college course and the amount of Tuition Assistance that is paid by the military for the course. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//education.military.com/money-for-school/gi-bill/tuition-top-up-program&code=MR_040708_topup) Click here to view more details and eligibility.
Next Step:
If you haven't found a school that has VA-approved programs, then the best way to get started is to request free information from military-friendly schools through Military.com. The information you receive will help you find the program that fits your needs. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//edu.military.com/gibill/page1.do%3FESRC%3Dmr.nl&code=MR_040708_nextstep) Find schools now.
Retired Pay Disparity Being Overlooked?
Since the late'90s, older retirees have seen cost of living increases that generally have been smaller than active-duty pay raises. This appears to create deepening disparities in retired pay between older and younger retirees. This disparity has some retirees concerned, but most military retiree advocates don't seem to be alarmed. (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,164817,00.html) Read the full article on Military.com to learn why.
Naval Professional Development Symposium
The 28th Annual Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO) Professional Development and Training Symposium will be held April 29-May 2, 2008 at NAB Little Creek, Drexler Manor Conference Center, in Virginia Beach, VA. The Symposium will include educational and training opportunities and presentations from U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard service chiefs and senior enlisted advisors. There will also be opportunities for one-on-one mentoring. Registration forms are available on the (http://www.ansomil.org/sp_events/current.html) Association of Naval Service Officers website. Or view the (http://www.npc.navy.mil/ReferenceLibrary/Messages/) NAVADMIN webpage for more details.
USAF Officer Development Deadline
Air Force officers considering intermediate or senior developmental education (IDE/SDE) in 2009 have until April 25, 2008 to submit their applications to the selection board. Line officers as well as chaplain and medical service officers may apply for up to five IDE/SDE programs using the pull-down menus on the Air Force's online 3849 form on the (https://wwa.afpc.randolph.af.mil/afpcsecure/mainmenu.asp) AFPC Secure Login webpage. Officers must be nominated by their senior rater and must also ensure that their Airman Development Plan is current. IDE/SDE officer program information can be found on the (http://ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil/main_content.asp?prods1=1&prods2=244&prods3=246&p_faqid=6025) Ask AFPC webpage.
Deadline Approaches for Navy Program
The Navy announced requirements for its Medical Service Corps (MSC) In-service Procurement Program (IPP). The MSC IPP provides a path for qualified and career motivated active-duty enlisted personnel to obtain a commission as a MSC officer in health care administration, environmental health, industrial hygiene, pharmacy, physician assistant, or radiation health. Applications for the program are due no later than Aug. 20, 2008. IPP is open to active-duty enlisted Sailors, Marines and Navy full-time support in pay grades E-5 through E-9. Detailed application information can be found at the (http://navmedmpte.med.navy.mil/mscipp/index.cfm) NAVMED Manpower Personnel Education and Training Command website.
New Online Warfighter Courses
Air University recently released the first two courses of the Warfighter Developmental Education (WDE) program, "The Airmen's Perspective" and "Foundations of Warfighting." WDE is a online educational program consisting of five doctrine-based warfighter education courses spanning an Airman's career. Personnel who do not have access to .mil sites can link to the WDE courseware at (https://au.csd.disa.mil/kc/login/login.asp) Air University Online. For more information contact the Air Force Doctrine Development and Education Center, DSN 493-3904 or commercial 334-953-3904.
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The Soldiers Project, a group of volunteer mental health professionals that offers its services to troops and their extended families, will host a conference May 16-18, 2008 in Los Angeles for military members who have served in the global war on terror and those who interact with them. The conference theme is "Hidden Wounds of War: Pathways to Healing." Conference speakers will focus on everything from the impact of war on the Soldier and family to challenges facing therapists who counsel military personnel and families. Those interested in attending the conference can visit (http://www.thesoldiersproject.org/) The Soldier's Project website to register for a discount before April 18 at 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
New Fisher Houses Opening
The Department of Veterans Affairs is planning new Fisher Houses to open soon in Chicago, St. Louis, Minneapolis, and Washington. Fisher Houses are built through public donations and contributions from the Fisher House Foundation. VA assumes responsibility for operating costs of the finished homes. Currently, VA has Fisher Houses in Albany, N.Y.; Bay Pines, Fla.; Cincinnati; Denver; Houston; Minneapolis; Palo Alto, Calif.; West Palm Beach and Tampa, Fla. with new houses coming soon in Los Angeles, Seattle, Dallas, and Richmond, Va. and Boston. For more information, visit the (http://www.fisherhouse.org/) Fisher House website.
New AF 24-Hour Assistance Center
The 24-hour Air Force Contact Center at the Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) employs a tier system to help Airmen fix their personnel problems from a computer or a telephone. The first step in the tier is to visit the (http://ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil/) AFPC "Ask" website. The website contains a wealth of personnel information and services that would have been available only at a MPF in the past. If the website does not answer your question, call the Center 800-616-3775 anytime where a customer service representative will assist you. Assistance by telephone is available 24-hours a day across the world.
VA Reaches Out to Women Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs has created a comprehensive array of benefits and programs for women veterans. VA has several specific initiatives for 2008 including: (1) enhancing skills of primary care providers who treat women veterans; (2) examining other women's health issues, including cardiac care, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer in women; and (3) focusing on family issues and avoiding birth defects through enhanced pharmacy practices for women veterans of child bearing age. For more information about VA benefits and services, veterans may contact their local VA regional office, medical center, or vet center. For questions concerning VA benefits call 1-800-827-1000, for questions concerning VA health care call 1-877-222-8387, or visit the (http://www.va.gov/) VA website.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/va-reaches-out-to-women-veterans.html) Read the full article on Military.com.
Women Marines Association Convention
The 25th Biennial Women Marines Association Convention and Professional Development Conference will be held Aug. 28- Sept. 3, 2008 at the Westin Galleria Hotel in Houston, Texas. Online registration is available at the (http://www.womenmarines.org/) Women Marines Association website. Hotel reservations can be made by calling (713) 960-8100 (http://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=0703261673&key=8786D) or online.
Reservists May Face Tour Limit
Later this year hundreds of reservists nationwide could reach the limit on the number of man-days they can serve in Air Force Reserve Command. Reservists through the rank of colonel can serve up to 1,095 man-days of the previous 1,460 days in a rolling four-year calendar. It's predicted that 2,000 reservists on Military Personnel Appropriation man-day orders or Reserve Personnel Appropriation man-day orders will reach or exceed 1,095 days by September 2008. If a reservist reaches 1,095 days in a 1,460-day period, a waiver is required to work beyond the 1,095 days. The Air Force plans to publish the results of this round of waivers in June 2008.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/air-force-news/reservists-may-face-limit-on-tours.html) Read the full article at Military.com.
Air Force Assists Civilian Pilots
Air Combat Command officials are reaching out to private civilian pilots by publicizing a website designed to prevent mid-air collisions with military aircraft. The (http://www.seeandavoid.org/) See and Avoid website allows users to locate their flight path and determine how they can avoid flying through military operating areas. The website gives tips about when and where military aircraft fly, their maneuvers, and how to avoid a mid-air collision. The best advantage of the website is that users don't have to consult multiple sources or websites to plan a route. The site also pinpoints where near misses and mid-air collisions have occurred and highlights areas that are more prone to accidents.
Semper Fit Seeks Triathlon Applications
Semper Fit is seeking applications for the All-Marine Triathlon Team, which will compete at the Armed Forces Triathlon Championship May 28-June 1, 2008 at Naval Base Ventura County in Pt. Magu, Calif. Interested Marines should submit their applications to HQMC (MRS) no later than April 30, 2008. Applications can be found at the (http://www.usmc-mccs.org/SPORTS/%20target=) MCCS Sports webpage and must contain a command endorsement along with all competition results from the past two years. Team selections will be made based on the most competitive/recent race times relevant to the Olympic distance. Marines stationed at a command with a local MCCS Semper Fit must submit their application through the athletic director.
(http://www.military.com/military-fitness/) For PT and nutritional support, check out that Fitness Center.
Exercises for Disabled Vets
Stew Smith has written an article focused on helping disabled veterans and amputees keep in shape. The article teaches disabled vets how they can use a variety of creative ways to perform many of the same exercises or at least work the same muscle groups they used to before their injuries. (http://www.military.com/military-fitness/workouts/exercises-for-disabled-vets) Read the full article at Military.com.
Army's Post-Deployment Recruiter Duty
The Army announced that a test of the new Chief of Staff of the Army Special Recruiter Assistance Program (CSA-SRAP) will begin in May. The CSA-SRAP pilot program differs from the current SRAP in two ways. First, CSA-SRAP will now require commands to screen and select Soldiers for special recruiter assistance during funded Temporary Duty Status. Second, under the CSA-SRAP pilot, Soldiers' spouses are authorized and encouraged to accompany them on invitational travel orders. The SRAP program was developed to give qualified Soldiers returning from Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom the opportunity to tell their stories to local communities throughout the U.S. For more information on the CSA-SRAP, visit the (http://www.2k.army.mil/) Support Army Recruiting website.
Featured Job: Transition Careers
Change your call sign, not your calling. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//jobview.monster.com/GetJob.aspx%3FJobID%3D66803137%26JobTitle%3DJoin+America%27s+fastest+growing+law+enforcement+team+as+a+U.S.+Border+Patrol+Agent.%26q%3D66803195%26brd%3D1%26cy%3Dus%26vw%3Db%26AVSDM%3D2008-01-21+13%253a49%253a00%26pg%3D1%26seq%3D1&code=MR_040708_job) Become a Border Patrol Agent, and protect America as part of an organization with one of the best reputations in all of law enforcement.
Salad Dressing Recalled
Kraft Foods announced a voluntary recall of certain cases of its 16-ounce Roasted Red Pepper Italian with Parmesan Dressing and Marinade because some of the product has spoiled. As a result, the Defense Commissary Agency removed from all affected products its shelves. Commissary customers can return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. For any questions regarding this recall, consumers can contact Kraft Consumer Response at 1-800-847-1997.
ThanksUSA Scholarships
ThanksUSA, in a charitable effort to mobilize Americans of all ages to "thank" active-duty troops by providing college scholarships to their spouses and dependents, today opened its third year accepting applications for scholarships. Interested applicants can find more information, eligibility requirements and the official application form at (http://www.thanksusa.org/) www.ThanksUSA.org. Applications will be accepted from April 1 through May 15, 2008.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/thanksusa-scholarships-spouses-and-dependents.html) Read the full article at Military.com.
Remember: Not applying for scholarships is like turning down free money. Get started on your search for scholarships today - visit the Military.com (http://aid.military.com/scholarship/search-for-scholarships.do) Scholarship Finder.
Marine Corps Seeks Award Nominations
The Marine Corps is soliciting nominations for the NAACP's 2008 Roy Wilkins Renown Service Award. Commanders and supervisors may nominate deserving Marines and civilians for the award. Electronic package nominations must be received by the CMC (MPE) POC by May 21, 2008 and may be mailed to 3280 Russell Road, Quantico, VA 22134 or Faxed to 703-784-9814.
Deal of the Week: Save up to 12%
As a government employee, you're eligible for Dell's exclusive member discounts. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//www.dell.com/atg/military13&code=MR_040708_deal) These discounts are on top of most generally advertised Dell promotions.
Thrift Savings Plan: A Benefit for Life
The Federal (http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/thrift-savings-plan) Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) provides ease of savings and tax benefits like civilian employer 401k plans. TSP allows servicemembers the opportunity to make tax-free savings contributions directly from their salary. Investment options vary and their contributions and earned interest remain tax exempt until funds are withdrawn at age 59-and-a-half. However, only two out of three military members don't take advantage of the government-run Thrift Savings Plan. Those who decline this benefit miss out on the opportunity of investing for their retirement. Learn more about this valuable benefit, (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,165179,00.html) read the full article at Military.com.
COLA Increases in Europe
Troops in European countries where the euro is used as the local currency will see a small increase in their cost-of-living allowances (COLA) due to the falling value of the U.S. dollar. Most areas in Germany will see an increase of two points, although troops in some places, including Freiburg, Bremerhaven, Mecklenburg and Hanover, will get a four-point boost. Troops in Brussels and Antwerp, Belgium, will also see a four-point increase. For more information on the Overseas Cost of Living Allowances, visit the Per Diem, (http://perdiem.hqda.pentagon.mil/perdiem/allowcol.html) Travel and Transportation Allowance Committee website.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/cola-rises-for-troops-in-nations-that-use-the-euro.html) Read the full article at Military.com.
TRICARE Continues Cancer Trials
A new agreement signed between the Department of Defense (DoD) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) will allow TRICARE-eligible cancer patients to take part in NCI-sponsored cancer clinical and prevention trials. For more information about the trials, TRICARE beneficiaries should speak with their oncologist. For information on TRICARE cancer clinical trials benefit and authorization, contact your respective TRICARE Cancer Clinical Trials Coordinator: (1) TRICARE North Region, Palmetto Government Benefits Administrators (PGBA), (800) 395-7821; (2) TRICARE South Region, PGBA, (800) 779-3060; (3) TRICARE West Region, TriWest, (866) 427-6610; and (4) TRICARE for Life, Wisconsin Physicians Services, (608) 301-3243.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/tricare-continues-nci-cancer-trials.html) Read the full article at Military.com.
New Overseas Voter Services Site
The Overseas Vote Foundation (OVF) announced a new website that will provide user-friendly voter services to uniformed services members and their families. The new (https://military.overseasvotefoundation.org/) OVF website that provides the full complement of automated voter services offered by OVF including voter registration/ballot request, election official directory services, voter help desk, state-specific voter information directory, write-in ballot and My Voter Account services. Visit the Military.com (http://electioncenter.military.com/) 2008 Election Center to learn more.
New Benefits Handbook Available
A new edition of the handbook "Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents" by the Department of Veterans Affairs updates the rates for certain federal payments and outlines a variety of programs and benefits for American veterans along with a listing of toll-free phone numbers, Internet addresses and a directory of VA facilities throughout the country. The 2008 edition of the 153-page booklet also provides an overview of programs and services for veterans provided by other federal agencies. The handbook can be (http://www.va.gov/OPA/vadocs/current_benefits.asp) downloaded for free from VA's website.
Combat-Related Compensation Changes
The 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes changes to expand eligibility to include certain medical retirees. Amendments to Chapter 61 expand eligibility to medical retirees with less than 20 years of service and a combat-related VA disability rating of 10 percent or greater. Retired veterans must still provide documentation that shows a link between a current VA disability and a combat related event. (http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/special-pay/combat-related-special-compensation) Learn more at Military.com.
Corps Joins Better Business Bureau
The Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) and the U.S. Marine Corps have established the BBB Marine Corps Line, which is part of the greater BBB Military Line program. This service is designed to serve the specialized consumer needs of Marine Corps personnel and their families. BBB Marine Corps Line brings the full resources of BBB to the Marine Corps consumer, no matter where that person is located, (http://us.bbb.org/WWWRoot/SitePage.aspx?site=113&id=577b6932-4465-489c-8bff-33ebe056c7ec) through its website. On the website, Marines can access educational tools on credit and investing, news and tips on consumer issues, and links to look up reliability reports on businesses or file a complaint with BBB.
New Exchange Jewelry Catalog Available
The Spring/Summer 2008 Exchange Jewelry Catalog features rings, watches, earrings and pendants. The 2008 Spring/Summer Jewelry catalog is available at all main stores and online at aafes.com. Prices in this all-services catalog are valid April 2 - Aug. 29, 2008, for any authorized exchange customer. Orders can be placed by mail, fax or phone. Toll-free orders can be placed from the U.S., Puerto Rico or Guam at 800-527-2345 around the clock, seven days a week.
Navy's New PT Uniforms
The Navy introduced its new physical training uniform (PTU) to the world, in a photo shoot, March 20-21. The PTU consist of a gold shirt with reflective Navy lettering and blue shorts with Navy lettering and reflective markings. The new uniforms will be required for all group and unit physical training (PT) in the Navy, as well as the semi-annual physical fitness tests. View the new uniforms in the Military.com (http://www.military.com/military-fitness/navy-fitness/navy-introduces-new-pt-uniforms) Fitness Center.
Summit on Women Veterans Issues
Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Peake announced the Fourth National Summit on Women Veterans Issues to be held from June 20 - 22 in Washington D.C. The Summit will offer attendees an opportunity to enhance future progress on women veterans issues, with sessions specifically for the Reserve and National Guard, information on military sexual trauma and re-adjustment issues, after the military veteran resources and many more programs and exhibits. For more information on the summit, visit (http://www1.va.gov/womenvet/) VA's Center for Women's Veterans website.
Choose Homeownership
The rewards of owning your own home include many benefits unavailable to renters. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//www.military.com/Finance/content/0%2C15356%2C165244%2C00.html&code=MR_040708_WellsFargo) Learn more about the financial benefits and responsibilities of homeownership.
New REAP Monthly Verification
Starting this April all Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP) participants will be required to verify their monthly attendance in order to receive payment. Like other GI Bill participants, REAP participants can do this online at the (https://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/) Web Automated Verification of Enrollment (WAVE) website or by calling the VA automated verification line at 877-823-2378 (877 VA-ECERT). Participants normally must wait until the last calendar day of the month to verify attendance. However, those who attend classes for less than a month may verify their attendance anytime after their enrollment ends. (http://education.military.com/money-for-school/reserve/gi-bill/reserve-education-assistance-program-reap) Learn more about REAP.
Interested in using your education benefits? (http://schools.military.com/schoolfinder/search-for-schools.do) Find the right school for you.
Commissaries Highlight Food Safety
The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) will highlight awareness of proper food handling and cooking measures in all its stores throughout the month of April 2008. Customers will see displays and demonstrations with store personnel and military food safety inspectors on hand to answer questions on how customers can protect themselves and their families when they take food home. DeCA will also announce its participation in Be Food Safe, a government program to help educate consumers about the four steps of preventing food-borne illnesses in the kitchen: cleaning, separating, cooking and chilling foods. For more information on keeping your food safe, visit DeCA's Food Safety webpage.
Free Legal Session in Massachusetts
The Massachusetts Bar Association is offering a free session of its monthly Dial-A-Lawyer programs that will be dedicated solely to veterans' legal questions. The free program will run on Wed., April 9, 2008 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nearly half a million veterans live in Massachusetts, many of whom have pressing legal questions concerning benefits, divorce, child support, employment and landlord-tenant issues. The Dial-A-Lawyer phone number, active only between 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on April 9, is 617-338-0610. If a caller gets a busy signal, he will be asked to hang up and try again. Normal telephone charges will apply.
Marine BIG Award Nominees Needed
Nominees are being sought for the Blacks in Government (BIG) Meritorious Service Award. Commanders and supervisors are encouraged to nominate deserving Marines and civilian employees for this award. Electronic package submissions for Marines must be received by the CMC (MPE) POC (mailto:ruth.allen@usmc.mil) ruth.allen@usmc.mil by June 18, 2008. Hard copies may be mailed to 3280 Russell Road, Quantico, Va. 22134-5103 or Faxed to 703-784-9814. CMC (MPE) will conduct a special emphasis awards board to select the honorees.
2008 Federal Employee Media Survey
The goal of this survey to better understand the role that active duty servicemen and women play in the approval and acquisition of products and services for government, as well as preferred media habits.
This survey will take less than five minutes of your time. We value your input and sincerely hope that you will share your thoughts with us. Results are completely confidential. (http://vp-nri.com/take/?i=127642&h=EXAvIOs_9bj6ehy86afzzA) Please start here...
Tuition Assistance Top-Up Program
Top-Up is a program that allows GI Bill participants' to use the GI Bill to supplement the tuition and fees not covered by tuition assistance. The amount of the benefit can be equal to the difference between the total cost of a college course and the amount of Tuition Assistance that is paid by the military for the course. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//education.military.com/money-for-school/gi-bill/tuition-top-up-program&code=MR_040708_topup) Click here to view more details and eligibility.
Next Step:
If you haven't found a school that has VA-approved programs, then the best way to get started is to request free information from military-friendly schools through Military.com. The information you receive will help you find the program that fits your needs. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//edu.military.com/gibill/page1.do%3FESRC%3Dmr.nl&code=MR_040708_nextstep) Find schools now.
Retired Pay Disparity Being Overlooked?
Since the late'90s, older retirees have seen cost of living increases that generally have been smaller than active-duty pay raises. This appears to create deepening disparities in retired pay between older and younger retirees. This disparity has some retirees concerned, but most military retiree advocates don't seem to be alarmed. (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,164817,00.html) Read the full article on Military.com to learn why.
Naval Professional Development Symposium
The 28th Annual Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO) Professional Development and Training Symposium will be held April 29-May 2, 2008 at NAB Little Creek, Drexler Manor Conference Center, in Virginia Beach, VA. The Symposium will include educational and training opportunities and presentations from U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard service chiefs and senior enlisted advisors. There will also be opportunities for one-on-one mentoring. Registration forms are available on the (http://www.ansomil.org/sp_events/current.html) Association of Naval Service Officers website. Or view the (http://www.npc.navy.mil/ReferenceLibrary/Messages/) NAVADMIN webpage for more details.
USAF Officer Development Deadline
Air Force officers considering intermediate or senior developmental education (IDE/SDE) in 2009 have until April 25, 2008 to submit their applications to the selection board. Line officers as well as chaplain and medical service officers may apply for up to five IDE/SDE programs using the pull-down menus on the Air Force's online 3849 form on the (https://wwa.afpc.randolph.af.mil/afpcsecure/mainmenu.asp) AFPC Secure Login webpage. Officers must be nominated by their senior rater and must also ensure that their Airman Development Plan is current. IDE/SDE officer program information can be found on the (http://ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil/main_content.asp?prods1=1&prods2=244&prods3=246&p_faqid=6025) Ask AFPC webpage.
Deadline Approaches for Navy Program
The Navy announced requirements for its Medical Service Corps (MSC) In-service Procurement Program (IPP). The MSC IPP provides a path for qualified and career motivated active-duty enlisted personnel to obtain a commission as a MSC officer in health care administration, environmental health, industrial hygiene, pharmacy, physician assistant, or radiation health. Applications for the program are due no later than Aug. 20, 2008. IPP is open to active-duty enlisted Sailors, Marines and Navy full-time support in pay grades E-5 through E-9. Detailed application information can be found at the (http://navmedmpte.med.navy.mil/mscipp/index.cfm) NAVMED Manpower Personnel Education and Training Command website.
New Online Warfighter Courses
Air University recently released the first two courses of the Warfighter Developmental Education (WDE) program, "The Airmen's Perspective" and "Foundations of Warfighting." WDE is a online educational program consisting of five doctrine-based warfighter education courses spanning an Airman's career. Personnel who do not have access to .mil sites can link to the WDE courseware at (https://au.csd.disa.mil/kc/login/login.asp) Air University Online. For more information contact the Air Force Doctrine Development and Education Center, DSN 493-3904 or commercial 334-953-3904.
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