Print & Post: Week of November 10, 2008
AF Reserve Site Launches New Login Option
The (https://arpc.afrc.af.mil/) Air Reserve Personnel Center launched a new enhancement that allows Airmen to log into the virtual Personnel Center-Guard and Reserve using their Common Access Card. Before Airmen can log into the vPC-GR using only their CAC, they must log in with their existing account and then click on the "Associate CAC" button. For those who do not have an account, they must create an account and then associate it with their CAC. Although the CAC option is available, it is not required. Airmen still have the option, whether their account is associated or not, to use their username and password. Citizen Airmen should contact their unit for CAC-reader availability.
To All Veterans, Active Duty, Reservists and Guard
Thank you for your service to our country. Your sacrifices and dedication to the ideals of our country are honored, especially on Veterans Day. We encourage those not on active duty to wear your medals on 11/11 and 11/12 to show your veteran pride so others will join us in expressing gratitude for all you've done to keep us safe and free. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//www.military.com/veterans-day/?ESRC=mr.nl&code=mr111008_vetday) Find ways to celebrate Veterans Day.
Financial Aid Now Available for Surviving Spouses
The Army Emergency Relief's (AER) Stateside Spouse Education Assistance Program is now available to surviving spouses and spouses of retired Soldiers living stateside. Financial assistance is awarded based on financial need, and scholarships are awarded annually for up to four academic years. Students must re-apply every year and be registered in DEERS. For (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricare/defense-enrollment-eligibility-reporting-system) DEERS registration verification, call 1-800-538-9552. Applications for financial aid are available at the (http://www.aerhq.org/) Army Emergency Relief website until March 1, 2009.
Learn more about the (http://education.military.com/money-for-school/spouse-family/military-spouse-and-family-educational-assistance-programs) education benefits the Dept. of VA, and each of the service's have to offer to military spouses.
AFPC Focuses on Records Accountability
The Force Personnel Center (AFPC) at Randolph AFB, Texas is trying to improve the accountability of medical records and aid in the timely processing of veterans' disability claims. AFPC will collect and then transfer Health Treatment Records (medical and dental records forwarded together) to the servicing Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) location of retired and separated Airmen who left the Air Force after Sept. 1, 2008. Airmen can file a disability claim with the DVA up to six months in advance of separation or retirement providing they can be available for DVA medical appointments. In these cases, Airmen can request a copy of their records to provide to the DVA.
(http://www.military.com/benefits/veterans-health-care) Learn more about Veteran Health Care.
The Price is Right Salutes the Military
CBS producers will honor servicemembers with a "Salute to the Military" special on the game show, The Price is Right. The episode is scheduled to air on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2008. Gifts and prizes on the show are geared towards practical use for Servicemembers, including Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) online gift certificates and phone cards. To learn more about how to support our troops through the AAFES programs "Help Our Troops Call Home" and "Gifts on the Homefront," visit the (http://www.aafes.com/) AAFES website.
Find ways to support and honor U.S. military servicemembers and veterans who protect our security and freedom. Visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/resources/support-our-troops) Support our Troops webpage.
New PTSD Program Helps At-Risk Airmen
Air Force Medical Service officials released a prevention education program that provides focused education specifically targeted at Airmen at risk for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other deployment-related mental health problems. Titled Landing Gear, the training fulfills existing requirements for pre-exposure preparation training and reintegration education. The program was designed with high-risk Airmen in mind, but will be beneficial to all deployers. Detailed instructions are provided in course materials available on the (http://airforcemedicine.afms.mil/landinggear) Air Force Medical Service website.
(http://www.military.com/news/stories/ptsd-news.html) More information and resources on PTSD.
New Program Helps Severely Injured Sailors
The mission of the (http://www.npc.navy.mil/CommandSupport/SafeHarbor/) Navy Safe Harbor program is to provide personalized support and assistance to severely injured Sailors and their families. Sailors who sustained a severe injury after Sept. 10, 2001, while supporting the Global War on Terrorism, are eligible for the Navy's support program. To enroll, contact the Safe Harbor Program toll-free number at 1-877-746-8563 or e-mail (mailto:safeharbor@navy.mil) safeharbor@navy.mil.
To find career resources for the severely injured, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/support) Severely Injured Career Center.
New Law Aids Debt Relief for Guard, Reserve
The new National Guard and Reserve Debt Relief Act of 2008 (public law 110-438) will ease bankruptcy rules for Guard and Reserve members who have served as active-duty Soldiers. The law was drafted after complaints from guardsmen and reservists whose small businesses and personal finances dwindled due to recurring combat deployments. The law prevents courts from dismissing bankruptcy cases based on means-testing if the Guard or Reserve member has been on active duty since Sept.11, 2001 and was active for more than 90 days. The law is effective through the first year and a half following the Soldier's return home. The full text of the new law is available at the Library of Congress' Thomas website at () http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:s.03197:.
Special Allowance for Surviving Spouses
The new 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (110-181) established a special payment for surviving spouses who are (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits/survivor-benefit-plan-explained) Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) beneficiaries, but whose SBP annuity is reduced by their (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits/dependency-and-indemnity-compensation) Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). The Act now states that survivors of members who died on active duty are eligible for this benefit. The Defense Finance and Accounting Service-Cleveland (DFAS-CL) will automatically pay Special Survivor Indemnity Allowance (SSIA) to surviving spouses whose SBP accounts show a DIC offset beginning October 2008. Surviving spouses entitled to SSIA can update their bank account information by contacting DFAS-CL at 1-800-321-1080 or by calling their Retirement Services Officer.
Survey Request: We Need Your Help
As part of our effort to ensure you have the best experience possible, please take a moment to fill out a brief survey about your experience with Military.com products and services. Your feedback will be kept anonymous, and will help us better serve you in the future. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Esurveymonkey%2Ecom%2Fs%2Easpx%3Fsm%3Dsua3Vo8wRNVlyRqyhHVWOQ%5F3d%5F3d?ESRC=mr.nl&code=mr_111008_survey) Take the survey now.
AF Survey Deadline Nears
The 2008 Air Force Climate Survey runs through Nov. 26, 2008 and is designed to assess opinions and perceptions of the Air Force's active-duty, Reserve, Guard and civilian members. Topics include job characteristics, trust, support for deployment, resources, recognition, general satisfaction, unit performance and unit characteristics. At last count, 566,700 Airmen were e-mailed invitations in October asking them to complete the survey. At designated intervals, reminder e-mails with personalized links are being sent out in case individuals accidentally deleted or misplaced their e-mail invitations. If a new link is needed, e-mail the Air Force Survey Office at (mailto:af.surveys@randolph.af.mil) af.surveys@randolph.af.mil.
(http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) Find more Air Force news on Military.com.
3 Tips for Getting a Degree Faster and Cheaper
The cost of getting a degree is expensive and the costs can sometimes by over $50,000. Here are 3 tips to get your degree faster and cheaper.
Tip #1: Test Out
You can challenge a course by examination - if you pass the test, you get the credit for the course. (http://education.military.com/timesaving-programs/3-tips-for-getting-degree-faster-and-cheaper?ESRC=mr.nl) More.
Tip #2: Go Online
Online courses offer the advantage of allowing you to take a course from anywhere; all you need is access to the Internet. (http://education.military.com/timesaving-programs/3-tips-for-getting-degree-faster-and-cheaper?ESRC=mr.nl) More.
Tip #3: Get Someone Else to Pay For It
Tuition Assistance (TA) is available to all active duty personnel. TA will pay up to 100% of all tuition fees, special fees, and lab fees. (http://education.military.com/timesaving-programs/3-tips-for-getting-degree-faster-and-cheaper?ESRC=mr.nl) More.
Next Step: The first step to getting your degree is to find a school that matches your personal schedule and education goals. Request free information from Military-Friendly schools today to (http://edu.military.com/gibill?ESRC=mr.nl) find the perfect school and degree program.
Find the Perfect Holiday Gifts at Military.com
The last day to mail gifts overseas is December 11th. You can save time, beat the mall crowds and find great deals in the Military.com Holiday Gift Guide Center. (http://www.military.com/Deals/Home?esrc=mr.nl) Browse gifts and deals now.
Applebee's Salutes the Military on Veterans Day
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants invite all active duty and veterans to one of 164 participating restaurants nationwide to pull up a chair for a delicious meal and heartfelt thanks this Veterans Day. With gratitude for their service and sacrifice, active duty and veterans will eat free at participating locations on Veterans Day (November 11, 2008) during regular business hours. (http://www.military.com/veterans-day/applebees-veterans-day.htm) Read the full article on Military.com.
(http://www.military.com/veterans-day/) Check out Military.com's Veteran's Day page.
AFPC to Focus on Accountability of Medical Records
The Air Force Personnel Center has a new mission: improve the accountability of medical records and aid in the timely processing of veterans' disability claims. Starting with Randolph AFB as the test base, AFPC will collect and then transfer Health Treatment Records (medical and dental records forwarded together) to the servicing Department of Veterans Affairs location of retired and separated Airmen who left the Air Force after Sept. 1, 2008. Airmen can file a disability claim with the DVA up to six months in advance providing they can be available for DVA medical appointments. In these cases, Airmen can request a copy of their records from their servicing MTF to provide to the DVA.
New Exchange Catalog Now Available
The premier issue of the 2008 Small Wonders Exchange catalog features 48 pages of the latest electronics. The catalog is available at all main stores and online at the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) website at (http://www.aafes.com/) aafes.com. Prices in this all-services catalog are valid from Oct. 22, 2008 through Jan. 1, 2009, 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. The Exchange Catalog center is open around the clock, seven days a week.
Center Provides Free Support for Severely Injured
The mission of the Military Severely Injured Center is to prepare severely injured servicemembers to return to duty or to reintegrate successfully into their hometowns. Services include: medical care and rehabilitation; education, training and job placement; personal mobility and functioning; and home, transportation and workplace accommodations; personal, couple and family issues counseling; and financial resources. To obtain service from the Military Severely Server Center, day or night, call 1-888-774-1361, and worldwide at no cost to the severely injured and their families. Regional ombudsmen/advocates are prepared to talk with and support severely injured servicemembers and their families.
To find career resources for the severely injured, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/support) Severely Injured Career Center.
New COLA Increases Announced
Based on the increase in the U.S. Consumer Price Index, there will be a cost-of-living adjustment increase for retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan annuities effective Dec. 1, 2008. Retirees being paid on an account where the retiree first became a member of the uniformed services before Sept. 8, 1980 and retired before Jan. 1, 2008 will receive the full COLA increase of 5.8 percent. Retirees being paid on an account where the retiree first became a member of the uniformed services before Sept. 8, 1980 and retired Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2008 will receive a COLA increase of up to 5 percent. For more information, contact the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) at (800) 321-1080, or visit the (http://www.dfas.mil/index.html) DFAS website.
AF Reservists to Get More Money for School
Air Force reservists can now obtain more money to pursue a master's degree. The Air Force Reserve Command's (http://education.military.com/money-for-school/reservists-can-get-more-assistance-for-graduate-degree) Masters Degree Tuition Assistance Rate recently increased from 75 to 100 percent. This means a reservist can receive $250 per semester hour instead of $187.50 and $166.66 per quarter hour instead of $125. The new rate is not retroactive. The fiscal year cap, per member, remains at $4,500.
Find military friendly schools with Military.com's (http://schools.military.com/schoolfinder/search-for-schools.do?esrc=mr.nl) School Finder.
Holiday Mailing Guidelines Set
The U.S. Postal Service has set guidelines for mailing holiday mail and packages overseas. Mail and packages for troops that are serving in the Iraq and Afghanistan area should be sent by Dec. 4, 2008. Holiday mail, including packages and cards, going to military bases in other parts of the world should be shipped by Dec. 11. Priority mail flat-rate boxes are the best value when shipping to military members serving at home or anywhere overseas. The largest flat-rate box costs $10.95 to ship to an APO or FPO address. That is a $2 discount, and the boxes are free. Include the mailing address, return address and the contents of the box on a slip of paper with the other contents. For more information, visit the (http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123122365) U.S. Postal Service website.
To find more deployment news and resources, visit (http://www.military.com/deployment) The Deployment Center.
USPS to Offer Military Discount on Packages
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is currently giving a military discount for packages being shipped to APO or FPO addresses. In order to receive this discount, customers must use the free Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Box. You can obtain these boxes at your local post office, online at the (http://shop.usps.com/) U.S. Postal Service website or by calling 1-800-610-8734.
New DoDEA Customer Satisfaction Survey
The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) is administering its biennial Customer Satisfaction Survey (CSS) through Feb. 28, 2009. The CSS provides valuable feedback to the DoDEA from its most important customers - students and parents - about the quality of education it provides and areas needing improvement. Officials estimate it will take approximately 20 minutes to complete the survey, which is available at the (http://www.dodea.edu/home/index.cfm) DoDEA website at click on the CSS link. For more information on the CSS, visit the (http://www.dodea.edu/) DoDEA website.
To find more family resources visit the (http://www.military.com/military-spouse-network) Military Spouse Network.
Wounded Regiment/Battalions Provides Help
The mission of the Wounded Warrior Regiment/Battalions is to provide and facilitate assistance to wounded, injured, or ill Marines, Sailors attached to or in support of Marine units, and their family members, throughout the phases of recovery. The Regiment/Battalions develop individual Recovery Transition Plans that include: recovery and rehabilitation healthcare; education and job placement; life skills; coordination with appropriate DoD, VA, and other agencies; assistance with medical and non-medical conflict resolution; support in navigating through the Medical and Physical Evaluation Board (MEB/PEB) process and Combat Wounded Retention Waiver and Permanent Limited Duty (PLD) requests. For more information, contact the Wounded Warrior Call Center (WWCC) at 1-877-487-6299.
To find career resources for the severely injured, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/support) Severely Injured Career Center.
Deal of the Week: 20% off all Floral and Gift Items
SAVE 20% on all floral and gift items with From You Flowers. Simply visit your customized site at (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//shock.military.com/DC/DealCoupon.jsp%3Fdeal_id%3D22357?ESRC=mr.nl&code=mr_111008_deal) www.fromyouflowers.com/mil or call (800) 838-8853 and mention code 081. Get the discount now.
SpouseBuzz Live in Tacoma is Happening This Weekend
There is still time to register for SpouseBuzz Live in Tacoma, Wash. On November 15th. The event is free and will feature discussion panels, fellowship and fun surprises. It's a day to celebrate you, the military spouse. (http://www.nationalcareerfairs.com/spouse_buzz/details/WA/Tacoma/November/15/2008/?ESRC=mr.nl) Get the full schedule of events and register.
New Fitness Blog on Military.com
Fitness experts Stew Smith, Sgt. Ken, Jeff Anderson and Nikki Fitness are posting daily tips and tricks to help you achieve your fitness goals. Keep up-to-date on military fitness requirements, boot camp expectations, special operations fitness and more. (http://military-fitness.military.com/?ESRC=mr.nl) Check out the Fitness Blog now.
Marine Corps Offers 4K Bonus to Captains
Stars and Stripes reports that the Marine Corps is offering a $4,000 retention bonus for captains in the hopes of retaining between 250 and 300 captains this fiscal year. The Corps hopes that most of the eligible captains opt to sign contracts by Nov. 30, but the official deadline is Sept. 15, 2009. For more information, including which Military Occupational Specialties captains must have to be eligible for the bonus, read MARADMIN 611.08 on the (http://www.marines.mil/news/messages/Pages/USMCCAPTAINRECOGNITIONBONUS.aspx) Marine Corps website.
To find complete information on current cash enlistment incentives (signing bonuses) and reenlistment bonuses offered by each of the Armed Forces, visit the (http://www.military.com/recruiting/bonus-center/) Military.com Bonus Center.
New Education Website Launched
The Department of Defense's Educational Partnership Branch launched the new (http://militaryk12partners.dodea.edu/) Military K-12 Partners website. The website provides information and news that directly relates to the work of educators and administrators in military-connected school systems.
To find more family resources visit the (http://www.military.com/military-spouse-network) Military Spouse Network.
Commissary Scholarship Available
Scholarship applications for the Commissary Scholarship Program are now available in commissaries worldwide and at the (https://www.commissaries.com/) Commissaries.com website or the Scholarships for (http://www.militaryscholar.org/) Military Children website. Eligible applicants for this program include: dependent, unmarried children (under the age 23) of active-duty personnel, reserve/guard and retired military members, survivors of servicemembers who died while on active duty or survivors of individuals who died while receiving retired pay from the military.
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?esrc=mr.nl) Scholarship Finder.
Featured Job: Account Manager
Worldwide Express, a dynamic, fast-growing company with excellent growth potential located in the Galleria area is seeking a (http://jobview.military.monster.com/getjob.asp?JobID=61032695) mid-level Account Manager. This individual will be a professional self-starter with superior communication, customer service and support skills.
The (https://arpc.afrc.af.mil/) Air Reserve Personnel Center launched a new enhancement that allows Airmen to log into the virtual Personnel Center-Guard and Reserve using their Common Access Card. Before Airmen can log into the vPC-GR using only their CAC, they must log in with their existing account and then click on the "Associate CAC" button. For those who do not have an account, they must create an account and then associate it with their CAC. Although the CAC option is available, it is not required. Airmen still have the option, whether their account is associated or not, to use their username and password. Citizen Airmen should contact their unit for CAC-reader availability.
To All Veterans, Active Duty, Reservists and Guard
Thank you for your service to our country. Your sacrifices and dedication to the ideals of our country are honored, especially on Veterans Day. We encourage those not on active duty to wear your medals on 11/11 and 11/12 to show your veteran pride so others will join us in expressing gratitude for all you've done to keep us safe and free. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//www.military.com/veterans-day/?ESRC=mr.nl&code=mr111008_vetday) Find ways to celebrate Veterans Day.
Financial Aid Now Available for Surviving Spouses
The Army Emergency Relief's (AER) Stateside Spouse Education Assistance Program is now available to surviving spouses and spouses of retired Soldiers living stateside. Financial assistance is awarded based on financial need, and scholarships are awarded annually for up to four academic years. Students must re-apply every year and be registered in DEERS. For (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricare/defense-enrollment-eligibility-reporting-system) DEERS registration verification, call 1-800-538-9552. Applications for financial aid are available at the (http://www.aerhq.org/) Army Emergency Relief website until March 1, 2009.
Learn more about the (http://education.military.com/money-for-school/spouse-family/military-spouse-and-family-educational-assistance-programs) education benefits the Dept. of VA, and each of the service's have to offer to military spouses.
AFPC Focuses on Records Accountability
The Force Personnel Center (AFPC) at Randolph AFB, Texas is trying to improve the accountability of medical records and aid in the timely processing of veterans' disability claims. AFPC will collect and then transfer Health Treatment Records (medical and dental records forwarded together) to the servicing Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) location of retired and separated Airmen who left the Air Force after Sept. 1, 2008. Airmen can file a disability claim with the DVA up to six months in advance of separation or retirement providing they can be available for DVA medical appointments. In these cases, Airmen can request a copy of their records to provide to the DVA.
(http://www.military.com/benefits/veterans-health-care) Learn more about Veteran Health Care.
The Price is Right Salutes the Military
CBS producers will honor servicemembers with a "Salute to the Military" special on the game show, The Price is Right. The episode is scheduled to air on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2008. Gifts and prizes on the show are geared towards practical use for Servicemembers, including Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) online gift certificates and phone cards. To learn more about how to support our troops through the AAFES programs "Help Our Troops Call Home" and "Gifts on the Homefront," visit the (http://www.aafes.com/) AAFES website.
Find ways to support and honor U.S. military servicemembers and veterans who protect our security and freedom. Visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/resources/support-our-troops) Support our Troops webpage.
New PTSD Program Helps At-Risk Airmen
Air Force Medical Service officials released a prevention education program that provides focused education specifically targeted at Airmen at risk for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other deployment-related mental health problems. Titled Landing Gear, the training fulfills existing requirements for pre-exposure preparation training and reintegration education. The program was designed with high-risk Airmen in mind, but will be beneficial to all deployers. Detailed instructions are provided in course materials available on the (http://airforcemedicine.afms.mil/landinggear) Air Force Medical Service website.
(http://www.military.com/news/stories/ptsd-news.html) More information and resources on PTSD.
New Program Helps Severely Injured Sailors
The mission of the (http://www.npc.navy.mil/CommandSupport/SafeHarbor/) Navy Safe Harbor program is to provide personalized support and assistance to severely injured Sailors and their families. Sailors who sustained a severe injury after Sept. 10, 2001, while supporting the Global War on Terrorism, are eligible for the Navy's support program. To enroll, contact the Safe Harbor Program toll-free number at 1-877-746-8563 or e-mail (mailto:safeharbor@navy.mil) safeharbor@navy.mil.
To find career resources for the severely injured, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/support) Severely Injured Career Center.
New Law Aids Debt Relief for Guard, Reserve
The new National Guard and Reserve Debt Relief Act of 2008 (public law 110-438) will ease bankruptcy rules for Guard and Reserve members who have served as active-duty Soldiers. The law was drafted after complaints from guardsmen and reservists whose small businesses and personal finances dwindled due to recurring combat deployments. The law prevents courts from dismissing bankruptcy cases based on means-testing if the Guard or Reserve member has been on active duty since Sept.11, 2001 and was active for more than 90 days. The law is effective through the first year and a half following the Soldier's return home. The full text of the new law is available at the Library of Congress' Thomas website at () http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:s.03197:.
Special Allowance for Surviving Spouses
The new 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (110-181) established a special payment for surviving spouses who are (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits/survivor-benefit-plan-explained) Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) beneficiaries, but whose SBP annuity is reduced by their (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits/dependency-and-indemnity-compensation) Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). The Act now states that survivors of members who died on active duty are eligible for this benefit. The Defense Finance and Accounting Service-Cleveland (DFAS-CL) will automatically pay Special Survivor Indemnity Allowance (SSIA) to surviving spouses whose SBP accounts show a DIC offset beginning October 2008. Surviving spouses entitled to SSIA can update their bank account information by contacting DFAS-CL at 1-800-321-1080 or by calling their Retirement Services Officer.
Survey Request: We Need Your Help
As part of our effort to ensure you have the best experience possible, please take a moment to fill out a brief survey about your experience with Military.com products and services. Your feedback will be kept anonymous, and will help us better serve you in the future. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Esurveymonkey%2Ecom%2Fs%2Easpx%3Fsm%3Dsua3Vo8wRNVlyRqyhHVWOQ%5F3d%5F3d?ESRC=mr.nl&code=mr_111008_survey) Take the survey now.
AF Survey Deadline Nears
The 2008 Air Force Climate Survey runs through Nov. 26, 2008 and is designed to assess opinions and perceptions of the Air Force's active-duty, Reserve, Guard and civilian members. Topics include job characteristics, trust, support for deployment, resources, recognition, general satisfaction, unit performance and unit characteristics. At last count, 566,700 Airmen were e-mailed invitations in October asking them to complete the survey. At designated intervals, reminder e-mails with personalized links are being sent out in case individuals accidentally deleted or misplaced their e-mail invitations. If a new link is needed, e-mail the Air Force Survey Office at (mailto:af.surveys@randolph.af.mil) af.surveys@randolph.af.mil.
(http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) Find more Air Force news on Military.com.
3 Tips for Getting a Degree Faster and Cheaper
The cost of getting a degree is expensive and the costs can sometimes by over $50,000. Here are 3 tips to get your degree faster and cheaper.
Tip #1: Test Out
You can challenge a course by examination - if you pass the test, you get the credit for the course. (http://education.military.com/timesaving-programs/3-tips-for-getting-degree-faster-and-cheaper?ESRC=mr.nl) More.
Tip #2: Go Online
Online courses offer the advantage of allowing you to take a course from anywhere; all you need is access to the Internet. (http://education.military.com/timesaving-programs/3-tips-for-getting-degree-faster-and-cheaper?ESRC=mr.nl) More.
Tip #3: Get Someone Else to Pay For It
Tuition Assistance (TA) is available to all active duty personnel. TA will pay up to 100% of all tuition fees, special fees, and lab fees. (http://education.military.com/timesaving-programs/3-tips-for-getting-degree-faster-and-cheaper?ESRC=mr.nl) More.
Next Step: The first step to getting your degree is to find a school that matches your personal schedule and education goals. Request free information from Military-Friendly schools today to (http://edu.military.com/gibill?ESRC=mr.nl) find the perfect school and degree program.
Find the Perfect Holiday Gifts at Military.com
The last day to mail gifts overseas is December 11th. You can save time, beat the mall crowds and find great deals in the Military.com Holiday Gift Guide Center. (http://www.military.com/Deals/Home?esrc=mr.nl) Browse gifts and deals now.
Applebee's Salutes the Military on Veterans Day
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants invite all active duty and veterans to one of 164 participating restaurants nationwide to pull up a chair for a delicious meal and heartfelt thanks this Veterans Day. With gratitude for their service and sacrifice, active duty and veterans will eat free at participating locations on Veterans Day (November 11, 2008) during regular business hours. (http://www.military.com/veterans-day/applebees-veterans-day.htm) Read the full article on Military.com.
(http://www.military.com/veterans-day/) Check out Military.com's Veteran's Day page.
AFPC to Focus on Accountability of Medical Records
The Air Force Personnel Center has a new mission: improve the accountability of medical records and aid in the timely processing of veterans' disability claims. Starting with Randolph AFB as the test base, AFPC will collect and then transfer Health Treatment Records (medical and dental records forwarded together) to the servicing Department of Veterans Affairs location of retired and separated Airmen who left the Air Force after Sept. 1, 2008. Airmen can file a disability claim with the DVA up to six months in advance providing they can be available for DVA medical appointments. In these cases, Airmen can request a copy of their records from their servicing MTF to provide to the DVA.
New Exchange Catalog Now Available
The premier issue of the 2008 Small Wonders Exchange catalog features 48 pages of the latest electronics. The catalog is available at all main stores and online at the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) website at (http://www.aafes.com/) aafes.com. Prices in this all-services catalog are valid from Oct. 22, 2008 through Jan. 1, 2009, 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. The Exchange Catalog center is open around the clock, seven days a week.
Center Provides Free Support for Severely Injured
The mission of the Military Severely Injured Center is to prepare severely injured servicemembers to return to duty or to reintegrate successfully into their hometowns. Services include: medical care and rehabilitation; education, training and job placement; personal mobility and functioning; and home, transportation and workplace accommodations; personal, couple and family issues counseling; and financial resources. To obtain service from the Military Severely Server Center, day or night, call 1-888-774-1361, and worldwide at no cost to the severely injured and their families. Regional ombudsmen/advocates are prepared to talk with and support severely injured servicemembers and their families.
To find career resources for the severely injured, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/support) Severely Injured Career Center.
New COLA Increases Announced
Based on the increase in the U.S. Consumer Price Index, there will be a cost-of-living adjustment increase for retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan annuities effective Dec. 1, 2008. Retirees being paid on an account where the retiree first became a member of the uniformed services before Sept. 8, 1980 and retired before Jan. 1, 2008 will receive the full COLA increase of 5.8 percent. Retirees being paid on an account where the retiree first became a member of the uniformed services before Sept. 8, 1980 and retired Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2008 will receive a COLA increase of up to 5 percent. For more information, contact the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) at (800) 321-1080, or visit the (http://www.dfas.mil/index.html) DFAS website.
AF Reservists to Get More Money for School
Air Force reservists can now obtain more money to pursue a master's degree. The Air Force Reserve Command's (http://education.military.com/money-for-school/reservists-can-get-more-assistance-for-graduate-degree) Masters Degree Tuition Assistance Rate recently increased from 75 to 100 percent. This means a reservist can receive $250 per semester hour instead of $187.50 and $166.66 per quarter hour instead of $125. The new rate is not retroactive. The fiscal year cap, per member, remains at $4,500.
Find military friendly schools with Military.com's (http://schools.military.com/schoolfinder/search-for-schools.do?esrc=mr.nl) School Finder.
Holiday Mailing Guidelines Set
The U.S. Postal Service has set guidelines for mailing holiday mail and packages overseas. Mail and packages for troops that are serving in the Iraq and Afghanistan area should be sent by Dec. 4, 2008. Holiday mail, including packages and cards, going to military bases in other parts of the world should be shipped by Dec. 11. Priority mail flat-rate boxes are the best value when shipping to military members serving at home or anywhere overseas. The largest flat-rate box costs $10.95 to ship to an APO or FPO address. That is a $2 discount, and the boxes are free. Include the mailing address, return address and the contents of the box on a slip of paper with the other contents. For more information, visit the (http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123122365) U.S. Postal Service website.
To find more deployment news and resources, visit (http://www.military.com/deployment) The Deployment Center.
USPS to Offer Military Discount on Packages
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is currently giving a military discount for packages being shipped to APO or FPO addresses. In order to receive this discount, customers must use the free Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Box. You can obtain these boxes at your local post office, online at the (http://shop.usps.com/) U.S. Postal Service website or by calling 1-800-610-8734.
New DoDEA Customer Satisfaction Survey
The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) is administering its biennial Customer Satisfaction Survey (CSS) through Feb. 28, 2009. The CSS provides valuable feedback to the DoDEA from its most important customers - students and parents - about the quality of education it provides and areas needing improvement. Officials estimate it will take approximately 20 minutes to complete the survey, which is available at the (http://www.dodea.edu/home/index.cfm) DoDEA website at click on the CSS link. For more information on the CSS, visit the (http://www.dodea.edu/) DoDEA website.
To find more family resources visit the (http://www.military.com/military-spouse-network) Military Spouse Network.
Wounded Regiment/Battalions Provides Help
The mission of the Wounded Warrior Regiment/Battalions is to provide and facilitate assistance to wounded, injured, or ill Marines, Sailors attached to or in support of Marine units, and their family members, throughout the phases of recovery. The Regiment/Battalions develop individual Recovery Transition Plans that include: recovery and rehabilitation healthcare; education and job placement; life skills; coordination with appropriate DoD, VA, and other agencies; assistance with medical and non-medical conflict resolution; support in navigating through the Medical and Physical Evaluation Board (MEB/PEB) process and Combat Wounded Retention Waiver and Permanent Limited Duty (PLD) requests. For more information, contact the Wounded Warrior Call Center (WWCC) at 1-877-487-6299.
To find career resources for the severely injured, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/support) Severely Injured Career Center.
Deal of the Week: 20% off all Floral and Gift Items
SAVE 20% on all floral and gift items with From You Flowers. Simply visit your customized site at (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http%3A//shock.military.com/DC/DealCoupon.jsp%3Fdeal_id%3D22357?ESRC=mr.nl&code=mr_111008_deal) www.fromyouflowers.com/mil or call (800) 838-8853 and mention code 081. Get the discount now.
SpouseBuzz Live in Tacoma is Happening This Weekend
There is still time to register for SpouseBuzz Live in Tacoma, Wash. On November 15th. The event is free and will feature discussion panels, fellowship and fun surprises. It's a day to celebrate you, the military spouse. (http://www.nationalcareerfairs.com/spouse_buzz/details/WA/Tacoma/November/15/2008/?ESRC=mr.nl) Get the full schedule of events and register.
New Fitness Blog on Military.com
Fitness experts Stew Smith, Sgt. Ken, Jeff Anderson and Nikki Fitness are posting daily tips and tricks to help you achieve your fitness goals. Keep up-to-date on military fitness requirements, boot camp expectations, special operations fitness and more. (http://military-fitness.military.com/?ESRC=mr.nl) Check out the Fitness Blog now.
Marine Corps Offers 4K Bonus to Captains
Stars and Stripes reports that the Marine Corps is offering a $4,000 retention bonus for captains in the hopes of retaining between 250 and 300 captains this fiscal year. The Corps hopes that most of the eligible captains opt to sign contracts by Nov. 30, but the official deadline is Sept. 15, 2009. For more information, including which Military Occupational Specialties captains must have to be eligible for the bonus, read MARADMIN 611.08 on the (http://www.marines.mil/news/messages/Pages/USMCCAPTAINRECOGNITIONBONUS.aspx) Marine Corps website.
To find complete information on current cash enlistment incentives (signing bonuses) and reenlistment bonuses offered by each of the Armed Forces, visit the (http://www.military.com/recruiting/bonus-center/) Military.com Bonus Center.
New Education Website Launched
The Department of Defense's Educational Partnership Branch launched the new (http://militaryk12partners.dodea.edu/) Military K-12 Partners website. The website provides information and news that directly relates to the work of educators and administrators in military-connected school systems.
To find more family resources visit the (http://www.military.com/military-spouse-network) Military Spouse Network.
Commissary Scholarship Available
Scholarship applications for the Commissary Scholarship Program are now available in commissaries worldwide and at the (https://www.commissaries.com/) Commissaries.com website or the Scholarships for (http://www.militaryscholar.org/) Military Children website. Eligible applicants for this program include: dependent, unmarried children (under the age 23) of active-duty personnel, reserve/guard and retired military members, survivors of servicemembers who died while on active duty or survivors of individuals who died while receiving retired pay from the military.
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?esrc=mr.nl) Scholarship Finder.
Featured Job: Account Manager
Worldwide Express, a dynamic, fast-growing company with excellent growth potential located in the Galleria area is seeking a (http://jobview.military.monster.com/getjob.asp?JobID=61032695) mid-level Account Manager. This individual will be a professional self-starter with superior communication, customer service and support skills.
