Print & Post: Week of November 02, 2009
Liberty University Offers Tuition Discounts to Military
Liberty University Online honors the military, veterans and families that serve our country. As a military-friendly school serving the military since 1983, it is our goal to help you reach your academic goals and graduate with little to no out-of-pocket cost. As the world's largest Evangelical university, Liberty offers affordable Christian education in a convenient and flexible format. With over 36 degree programs offered, Liberty University Online allocates extensive college credit for military training. With our dedicated military support office, you can be sure that Liberty will maximize the benefits available to you whether you are an active military, a veteran or a military spouse. Invest in yourself and your future by enrolling with Liberty University Online today at (http://www.luonline.com/MilitaryAdv) www.luonline.com
AF Portal to Require CAC Reader
On Jan. 1, the AF Portal will only be accessible by a CAC reader. This means you need a functioning CAC reader to access the Readiness Management Group Community of Practice site or any website requiring the use of the Air Force Portal. You can no longer sign into AF Portal with just your username and password. It is critical that Airman have a functioning CAC reader installed on their computer. The Air Force Portal is a key source of valuable information and resources you need to be able to access, including readiness information, useful forms and publications, and virtual MPF. If you do not have a CAC reader, contact your program manager for a free reader.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) Air Force news on Military.com.
Historical Military Photograph Collection
This Veterans Day, VetFriends.com, the largest website for reuniting U.S. veterans invites you to enjoy and appreciate an authentic (http://www.vetfriends.com/militarypics) collection of military photos that honor the many brave men and women who served or are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. All photos were submitted by U.S. veterans, active military, family and friends -- with photos spanning from World War I to the present. The VetFriends.com military photo collection is made up of thousands of images in honor of U.S. military personnel.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
AF Changes SNCO Policy
Completion of the resident Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy (SNCO) or a sister service equivalent will be required for promotion to senior master sergeant effective Jan. 1. This new policy aligns Air Force enlisted PME requirements with those of the sister services. Any remaining senior master sergeants and senior master sergeant selects will attend AFSNCOA before the end of 2009. Any remaining senior master sergeants without AFSNCOA completed by Jan. 1 will be grandfathered and must attend when able. Any remaining senior master sergeants unable to attend due to deployments, mission, injury or other reasons must have their unit commanders request a promotion waiver.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) Air Force news on Military.com.
Cancer Institute Offers Guide
The National Cancer Institute released an updated booklet for Breast Cancer Awareness Month: (http://www.health.mil/include/exitwarning.aspx?link=http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/understanding-breast-changes/PDF) Understanding Breast Changes: A Health Guide for Women. The guide addresses the concerns of women who notice a breast change or get an abnormal mammogram finding. It explains important next steps in testing, diagnosis and treatment when breast changes are found. (http://www.health.mil/include/exitwarning.aspx?link=http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/understanding-breast-changes/PDF) Click here to view the booklet as a PDF. You can also order the booklet free of charge by calling 1-800-4-CANCER.
Liberty University Offers Tuition Discounts to Military
Liberty University Online honors the military, veterans and families that serve our country. As a military-friendly school serving the military since 1983, it is our goal to help you reach your academic goals and graduate with little to no out-of-pocket cost. As the world's largest Evangelical university, Liberty offers affordable Christian education in a convenient and flexible format. With over 36 degree programs offered, Liberty University Online allocates extensive college credit for military training. With our dedicated military support office, you can be sure that Liberty will maximize the benefits available to you whether you are an active military, a veteran or a military spouse. Invest in yourself and your future by enrolling with Liberty University Online today at (http://www.luonline.com/) www.luonline.com
Military Eat Free at Golden Corral
Golden Corral's 9th annual Military Appreciation Monday dinner will be held on Monday, November 16, 2009, from 5 to 9 pm in all Golden Corral restaurants nationwide. The free dinner meal is a special "thank you tribute" to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, in the National Guard or Reserves, you are invited to join us for Golden Corral's Military Appreciation Monday dinner. To date, Golden Corral restaurants have provided over 2.2 million free meals and contributed over $3.3 million to the Disabled American Veterans organization.
Find great discounts on products for military servicemembers only in the Military.com (http://img.military.com/misc/DC/DealIndex.jsp) Discount Center.
Housing Assistance Program Pays Claim
The Sacramento District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued the nation's first check under the new Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP) as expanded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The Recovery Act expanded HAP to provide assistance to wounded servicemembers and DoD civilians reassigned due to medical or rehabilitation purposes or retirement due to their disability; surviving spouses of the fallen; BRAC 2005 impacted homeowners; and servicemembers undergoing a permanent change of station during the mortgage crisis. The Corps of Engineers operates the program on behalf of the military branches. For more information, including eligibility requirements, visit the (http://hap.usace.army.mil/homepage.html) Homeowners Assistance Program website.
Navy Career Intermission Program
The chief of naval personnel revised a pilot program allowing Sailors to take a break of up to three years from active duty, by authorizing the review of applications on a rolling basis in place of an annual selection board. Sailors can apply through their detailers to participate in the Career Intermission Pilot Program, which offers quotas for 20 officers and 20 enlisted members annually through 2012. Spots remain available from calendar year 2009. While participating in the program, Sailors must maintain their security clearances and professional certifications, meet physical fitness requirements, and adhere to Navy policies regarding conduct. For more information, visit the Navy Personnel (http://www.npc.navy.mil/CommandSupport/TaskForceLifeWork/Career+Intermission+Program.htm) Command's Career Intermission Program webpage.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/navy-news.html) Navy news on Military.com.
Exchanges Offer Fitness Catalog
Military shoppers don't need to look any further than the Army and Air Force Exchange Service's (AAFES) new 36-page (http://www.flickr.com/photos/aafespa/4037058871/?edited=1) 2009 All-Services Sports and Fitness Catalog for amazing array of treadmills, elliptical trainers, recumbent bikes and other sports equipment. The 2009 Sports and Fitness Catalog is available at all main stores and online at (http://www.aafes.com/) aafes.com, (http://www.usmc-mccs.org/) usmc-mccs.org, (https://www.navy-nex.com/) navy-nex.com or (http://www.cg-exchange.com/) cg-exchange.com. Prices in this all-services catalog are valid through Feb. 28, 2010, 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.
Find great discounts on products for military servicemembers only in the Military.com (http://img.military.com/misc/DC/DealIndex.jsp) Discount Center.
Exchanges Sponsor Holiday Giveaway
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) and Sandberg & Sikorski by Firestone are getting into the holiday spirit with their new (http://www.flickr.com/photos/aafespa/4046109105/?edited=1) Sandberg & Sikorski by Firestone Sweepstakes. Now through Dec. 24, BXs and PXs around the world are accepting entries for the sweepstakes. After Christmas Eve, three $3,000 shopping sprees will be awarded to one lucky AAFES shopper in the Continental United States, Pacific and Europe. Authorized exchange shoppers can confirm their exchanges participation by calling the numbers listed at the store locator link on the (http://odin.aafes.com/bases/index.asp) AAFES Store Locator webpage.
(http://www.military.com/news/page/home.html) For the most recent military news, visit Military.com.
Army Signs Agreement with University
Army Management Staff College (AMSC) signed another articulation agreement, demonstrating university recognition of its Civilian Education System (CES) program. Central Michigan University (CMU) is now accepting course credit for the CES Advanced Course, the fourth course in the progressive and sequential leader development program. CMU joins Webster University in offering credit for the CES Advanced Course. Advanced Course graduates now have the opportunity to transfer 12 credits to CMU's Master of Science in Administration. For more information about CES, visit the (http://www.amsc.belvoir.army.mil/academic/ces/) Army Management Staff College website.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/army-news.html) Army news on Military.com.
Mailing Dates for Afghanistan
U.S. Postal Service officials announced the recommended mailing dates for delivery by Christmas to U.S. military servicemembers serving in Afghanistan. Holiday mail send via first-class mail and priority mail for servicemembers stationed in Afghanistan should be sent by Dec. 4 for arrival by Christmas. The deadline for parcel airlift mail is Dec. 1, space-available mail is Nov. 21, and parcel post is Nov. 13. Priority mail packaging products, including the priority mail flat-rate boxes, can be obtained for free at any post office, or online at (http://shop.usps.com/) shop.usps.com. Updated mailing restrictions by individual APO/FPO zip are available on the U.S. Postal Service website at (http://www.usps.com/) www.usps.com.
To find more deployment news and resources, visit (http://www.military.com/deployment) The Deployment Center.
VFW Commander Addresses Archives Issue
The national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., Thomas J. Tradewell, Sr., recently returned from a 12-day trip to Europe to urge the Russian government to revitalize the U.S.-Russia Joint Commission on POW/MIAs and reopen its military archives. According to U.S. officials in the Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office, Russia's military archives are vitally important to the Full Accounting Mission because documents in the archives could help to determine the fate of some of the 88,000 missing and unaccounted-for Americans going back to World War II. For more on the U.S. full accounting efforts, visit the (http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo/) Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office website or the (http://www.jpac.pacom.mil/) Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command website.
Obama Signs VA Healthcare Reform Law
President Barack Obama recently signed new legislation that creates predictable funding for veterans' health care. The Veterans Healthcare Reform and Transparency Act calls for appropriations a year in advance after more than two decades of regular budget delays. "No longer will VA and the veterans in its care have to suffer from the "check's in the mail' syndrome," said Clarence E. Hill, national commander of The American Legion. "Advance appropriations will go a long way toward minimizing compromises in the delivery of the high quality VA health care our veterans expect and deserve." The text of the new law is (http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_bills&docid=f:h1016enr.txt.pdf) available online.
(http://www.military.com/news/page/home.html) For the most recent military news, visit Military.com.
Veterans Day Teacher's Resources
The Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) maintains an informative website about (http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/) Veterans Day. The website offers a teacher's guide and a VA children's website. Other educational websites include the U.S. Army's Center of (http://www.history.army.mil/faq/vetsday/vetshist.htm) Military History's History of Veterans Day, (http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp) VA's History of Veterans Day, and the (http://www.military.com/veterans-day/) Military.com website.
Check out Military.com's (http://www.military.com/veterans-day/) Veteran's Day site.
Report Looks at Spinal Injuries
Research conducted by scientists at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine shows that axons of the central nervous system may be regenerated even when treatment delayed is more than a year after the original spinal cord injury. "The chronically injured axon is not dead," says lead author Mark Tuszynski, MD, PhD, professor of neurosciences and director of the Center for Neural Repair at UC San Diego, and neurologist at the Veterans Affairs San Diego Health System. " The report was published in the Oct. 29 issue of Neuron, a neuroscience academic journal published by the Cell Press and is available on the (http://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(09)00698-9) Neuron (http://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(09)00698-9) website.
VA Suicide Hotline
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates the largest mental health program in the nation. Department officials have established a suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (Veterans Press 1). Live, online chat is also available for veterans at the (http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Veterans) Suicide Prevention Lifeline website.
Get the latest (http://www.military.com/benefits/veterans-health-care) Veteran Health Care information on Military.com.
Superior Life Insurance for You and Your Family
AFBA offers life insurance products that suit the needs of a military family. There is no medical exam requirement for active duty, Guard, and Reserve under age 50, for coverage up to $250,000. They also offer emergency death benefits. Within 24 hours of receiving notice of a member's death, AFBA will mail $15,000 to the member's beneficiary. (http://www.military.com/finance/insurance/afba?esrc=mr.nl) Contact AFBA today to learn how they can protect you and your family.
Free Gowns for Military Brides
The Norfolk, Va. bridal salon Maya Couture is one of several stores across the country that will participate in a Veterans Day giveaway of a limited number of free designer wedding gowns to military brides-to-be. The giveaway is organized by Brides Across America, a nationwide charity dedicated to providing free wedding gowns for military brides. Brides Across America and its partners have given more than 1,500 wedding gowns nationwide since its inception. For more information, including a list of bridal salons across the country that plan to participate in the nationwide military wedding gown giveaway to commemorate Veterans Day, visit the (http://www.bridesacrossamerica.com/) Brides Across America website.
To find more family resources visit the (http://www.military.com/military-spouse-network) Military Spouse Network.
Vet History Project Features Interviews
Navy Stop-Loss Window Opens
The Department of Defense (DoD) recently announced the implementation of plans to issue retroactive stop-loss special pay to compensate active duty, Reserve component, former and retired servicemembers with Navy critical skills who served during two periods: Oct. 10, 2001, to Dec. 31, 2002, and Apr. 3, 2003, to Sept. 15, 2003. Personnel with the critical skills identified during those two periods of stop loss are encouraged to apply for the benefit. All applicants must provide documentation that they were "stop lossed" during one of these two periods. For additional questions, contact the Customer Service Center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC or visit the (http://www.npc.navy.mil/) Naval Personnel Command website.
All military pay information can be found in Military.com's (http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay) Pay Section.
Cash for Illinois Veterans
Illinois Veterans will get 100 percent of the net proceeds from a special state lottery game. The new Stars and Stripes scratch-off tickets will be on sale for about six months as part of the Veterans' Cash program. The state expects to raise more than $1 million from the new lottery tickets. For more information, including how to apply for an Illinois Veterans Cash Grant, visit the (http://www.veterans.illinois.gov/programs/veterans_cash.htm) Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs website.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
Navy Band's Holiday Concert
The United States Navy Band's "Season of Magic" holiday concert will be held at DAR Constitution Hall, Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. Capt. George N. Thompson will lead the United States Navy Band along with the Sea Chanters chorus, Country Current country-bluegrass group and the Cruisers contemporary music ensemble. The concert will be broadcast worldwide through the Direct-to-Sailor network and Pentagon channel, as well as other networks. The concert will be aired locally as well. The concert is free, but tickets are required. Visit the United States Navy Band website at (http://www.navyband.navy.mil/) www.navyband.navy.mil for information on how to order tickets.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/navy-news.html) Navy news at Military.com.
Eat Free at Applebee's
Military veterans and active-duty servicemembers will be able to eat for free at any Applebee's across the U.S. on Veterans Day, Wed., Nov. 11, 2009. There will be six entres from the menu to choose from. Guests will be asked to show one or more of the following as proof of service: a U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, a photograph in uniform, or wearing a uniform in person. For more information about Veterans Day at Applebee's, visit the Applebee's website at (http://www.applebees.com/vetsday) www.applebees.com/vetsday. A complete listing of all Applebee's locations is available at (http://www.applebees.com/) www.applebees.com.
Holiday Shopping at the Exchange
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service's (AAFES) plans several promotions and prizes during this holiday season. Exclusive savings on tax-free holiday decorations, care package items and electronics will be offered in BXs and PXs every week throughout November. During the post-Thanksgiving blitz will be thousands of scratch-off cards given out to early birds and customers who shop the exchange after 4 p.m. from Nov. 27-29. Every scratch-off will be a winner. The AAFES also has a variety of special events planned for December including Early Bird specials on Dec. 5, 19 and 24. For more information, updated weekly, visit the (http://www.aafes.com/) AAFES website or their local exchange.
Find great discounts on products for military servicemembers only in the Military.com (http://img.military.com/misc/DC/DealIndex.jsp) Discount Center.
AF Changes Civilian Hiring Policy
Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees will now be referred to the hiring official along with current Air Force civilians for all permanent Air Force civilian positions. Former Air Force employees who were realigned under the Army or Navy because of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) or joint basing initiatives will have an avenue to return to the Air Force with the policy change. The change comes as the Air Force is increasing the number of available civilian jobs. For more information on Air Force civilian jobs, visit the (http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/afcivilianjobs/) Air Force Personnel Center website.
To access the largest veteran job board in the world, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/Careers/Home/0,13373,,00.htm) Career Center.
Vets Eat Free at Golden Corral
TRICARE Retiree Dental Premium Increase
The first annual TRDP premium rate change took effect on October 1, 2009 for the second contract year, October 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010. Subsequent changes for the third and fourth contract years will be effective October 1, 2010 through September 30, 2011 and October 1, 2011 through September 30, 2012, respectively. This annual premium adjustment is automatic and will be reflected in the allotment from your retired pay or, if you are billed directly, in your payment coupons or EFT (electronic funds transfer) debit applicable to your October 1 payment. To find out the new premium rates for your region, use the (http://www.trdp.org/pro/premiumSrch.html) online premium search.
Military Health Conference in January
Three-thousand military and civilian medical personnel from the U.S. Department of Defense Military Health System (MHS) are expected to attend the 2010 MHS Conference, which will provide health-care professionals a platform to share knowledge and improve best practices. Each day will feature its own educational theme, and all plenary and breakout sessions aligned to the daily themes. For registration information, visit the (http://www.health.mil/Pages/Page.aspx?ID=72) 2010 MHS Conference website.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/all-benefits-news.html) Military Health Care news on Military.com.
'Laptops for Flat Tops' Military Contest
AllAmericanDirect.com, a leading e-commerce provider of consumer goods and services, today announces the company's fourth and final Laptops for Flat Tops contest, which will award one laptop with an embedded Webcam (for the family) and an additional Webcam (for the soldier) to two families who have an immediate family member serving in any branch of the U.S. military overseas.
To learn more, (http://www.military.com/news/article/laptops-for-flat-tops-military-contest.html) read the full article on Military.com.
Flu Information and Resources
The U.S. Department of Defense Military Health System created its (http://www.health.mil/Pages/Page.aspx?ID=81) Influenza Resources information webpage to help servicemembers and their families find the resources they need to protect themselves and those in their care from influenza during the 2009-2010 flu season. The resources linked to from the webpage page focus on the H1N1 flu virus (also referred to as "swine flu") as well as regular seasonal flu. These are the two types of flu that present the largest threat to humans during this flu season.
Naval Chaplain School Relocates
The U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps recently relocated and consolidated its chaplain and enlisted religious program specialist (RP) training schools from Newport, R.I and Meridian, Miss. to a new facility at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C. The new facility, Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, is collocated with the Air Force Chaplain Corps College and the U.S. Army Chaplain School and Center at the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Center. Although the center will hold its official dedication ceremony sometime in early 2010, it is already hosting new students. For more information on the Naval Chaplaincy School, visit its (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Columbia-SC/Naval-Chaplaincy-School-and-Center/63723476839) Facebook page.
Find more of the the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/navy-news.html) Navy News on Military.com.
Navy Launches New Post Grad Program
The Naval Postgraduate School recently launched a new distance learning certificate program in Human Systems Integration open to all federal government personnel including officers and enlisted military. The four courses in the one-year, all-online interdisciplinary program are designed to educate and train Human Systems Integration practitioners in the state-of-the-art policies and processes needed to conduct HSI in Department of Defense and other federal agencies. Classes are asynchronous, and instructors are regularly available by e-mail. For an informational video on the new program, visit the (http://faculty.nps.edu/dl/HSI_Certificate_program/HSI_program_videoHIRes/index.html) Naval Postgraduate School website.
To learn more about military education benefits, visit the Military.com (http://education.military.com/education-home/) Education Channel.
A Groundbreaking PTSD Court Decision
A groundbreaking verdict for accused veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was decided recently in Canyon City, Ore. when former Soldier Jesse Bratcher, on trial for murder, was found guilty by reason of insanity. It appears to be the first trial in the U.S. where a veteran's post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was successfully considered to mitigate the circumstances of a crime. For more information on the case, visit the (http://www.nvf.org/blog/item/50) National Veterans Foundation website.
(http://www.military.com/news/stories/ptsd-news.html) More information and resources on PTSD.
CAL VA Audit Released
A new audit report issued by California's Independent State Auditor Elaine Howle found that the California Department of Veterans Affairs isn't delivering services as well as it should to the two million veterans living in the state. The report by the California Bureau of State Audits recommends that the California Department of Veterans' Affairs develops measurable goals and objectives that are directly aligned with the needs of the veteran community, based on a formal assessment of veterans' needs. A summary of the audit report is (http://www.bsa.ca.gov/reports/summary/2009-108) available online. The full audit report is (http://www.bsa.ca.gov/pdfs/reports/2009-108.pdf) available online.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
The Vet Set: Introduction to Voc Rehab
In this first "Vet Set" installment, Benjamin Krause lays the foundation for a seven part series designed to help veterans navigate the red tape of the VA Voc Rehab program. Learn how you may be able to tap into a more robust version of VA education benefits. In addition, Ben can guide you through the application process helping get to your benefits more quickly. (http://www.military.com/opinion/0,15202,204855,00.html) Read the full article.
Featured Discount: Run Strong All Year!
Get Everything You Need to Make 2010 Your Best Running Year Ever! (https://secure.rodale.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/OaeEntryPage?storeId=10057&mktOfferId=RWD26308&keycode=111598) Runner's World 2010 Calendar is a must-have for anyone who loves to run!
Featured Job: Military Friendly Employers
Visit Military.com's career board to search thousands of jobs in aerospace, defense, health care, nursing, government, law enforcement, teaching and more. Find the perfect career path for you and (http://www.military.com/Careers/Home?esrc=mr.nl) connect with military friendly employers today.
Get Your GI Bill Guide Today
Your GI Bill Rate is over $49,000. There are the 2 main steps you need to take to start using your benefits -- find military friendly schools that offer college credit for military service and get the GI Bill guide to learn how to use your benefits. Start your path to a better future and (http://edu.military.com/gibill/?esrc=mr.nl) learn more now.
Having Trouble Balancing Your Finances
Visit the (http://www.military.com/Finance/?esrc=mr.nl) finance center for tips on balancing your budget, finding the right insurance, PCSing, auto and home loans, taxes advantages for veterans and more.
Liberty University Online honors the military, veterans and families that serve our country. As a military-friendly school serving the military since 1983, it is our goal to help you reach your academic goals and graduate with little to no out-of-pocket cost. As the world's largest Evangelical university, Liberty offers affordable Christian education in a convenient and flexible format. With over 36 degree programs offered, Liberty University Online allocates extensive college credit for military training. With our dedicated military support office, you can be sure that Liberty will maximize the benefits available to you whether you are an active military, a veteran or a military spouse. Invest in yourself and your future by enrolling with Liberty University Online today at (http://www.luonline.com/MilitaryAdv) www.luonline.com
AF Portal to Require CAC Reader
On Jan. 1, the AF Portal will only be accessible by a CAC reader. This means you need a functioning CAC reader to access the Readiness Management Group Community of Practice site or any website requiring the use of the Air Force Portal. You can no longer sign into AF Portal with just your username and password. It is critical that Airman have a functioning CAC reader installed on their computer. The Air Force Portal is a key source of valuable information and resources you need to be able to access, including readiness information, useful forms and publications, and virtual MPF. If you do not have a CAC reader, contact your program manager for a free reader.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) Air Force news on Military.com.
Historical Military Photograph Collection
This Veterans Day, VetFriends.com, the largest website for reuniting U.S. veterans invites you to enjoy and appreciate an authentic (http://www.vetfriends.com/militarypics) collection of military photos that honor the many brave men and women who served or are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. All photos were submitted by U.S. veterans, active military, family and friends -- with photos spanning from World War I to the present. The VetFriends.com military photo collection is made up of thousands of images in honor of U.S. military personnel.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
AF Changes SNCO Policy
Completion of the resident Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy (SNCO) or a sister service equivalent will be required for promotion to senior master sergeant effective Jan. 1. This new policy aligns Air Force enlisted PME requirements with those of the sister services. Any remaining senior master sergeants and senior master sergeant selects will attend AFSNCOA before the end of 2009. Any remaining senior master sergeants without AFSNCOA completed by Jan. 1 will be grandfathered and must attend when able. Any remaining senior master sergeants unable to attend due to deployments, mission, injury or other reasons must have their unit commanders request a promotion waiver.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) Air Force news on Military.com.
Cancer Institute Offers Guide
The National Cancer Institute released an updated booklet for Breast Cancer Awareness Month: (http://www.health.mil/include/exitwarning.aspx?link=http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/understanding-breast-changes/PDF) Understanding Breast Changes: A Health Guide for Women. The guide addresses the concerns of women who notice a breast change or get an abnormal mammogram finding. It explains important next steps in testing, diagnosis and treatment when breast changes are found. (http://www.health.mil/include/exitwarning.aspx?link=http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/understanding-breast-changes/PDF) Click here to view the booklet as a PDF. You can also order the booklet free of charge by calling 1-800-4-CANCER.
Liberty University Offers Tuition Discounts to Military
Liberty University Online honors the military, veterans and families that serve our country. As a military-friendly school serving the military since 1983, it is our goal to help you reach your academic goals and graduate with little to no out-of-pocket cost. As the world's largest Evangelical university, Liberty offers affordable Christian education in a convenient and flexible format. With over 36 degree programs offered, Liberty University Online allocates extensive college credit for military training. With our dedicated military support office, you can be sure that Liberty will maximize the benefits available to you whether you are an active military, a veteran or a military spouse. Invest in yourself and your future by enrolling with Liberty University Online today at (http://www.luonline.com/) www.luonline.com
Military Eat Free at Golden Corral
Golden Corral's 9th annual Military Appreciation Monday dinner will be held on Monday, November 16, 2009, from 5 to 9 pm in all Golden Corral restaurants nationwide. The free dinner meal is a special "thank you tribute" to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, in the National Guard or Reserves, you are invited to join us for Golden Corral's Military Appreciation Monday dinner. To date, Golden Corral restaurants have provided over 2.2 million free meals and contributed over $3.3 million to the Disabled American Veterans organization.
Find great discounts on products for military servicemembers only in the Military.com (http://img.military.com/misc/DC/DealIndex.jsp) Discount Center.
Housing Assistance Program Pays Claim
The Sacramento District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued the nation's first check under the new Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP) as expanded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The Recovery Act expanded HAP to provide assistance to wounded servicemembers and DoD civilians reassigned due to medical or rehabilitation purposes or retirement due to their disability; surviving spouses of the fallen; BRAC 2005 impacted homeowners; and servicemembers undergoing a permanent change of station during the mortgage crisis. The Corps of Engineers operates the program on behalf of the military branches. For more information, including eligibility requirements, visit the (http://hap.usace.army.mil/homepage.html) Homeowners Assistance Program website.
Navy Career Intermission Program
The chief of naval personnel revised a pilot program allowing Sailors to take a break of up to three years from active duty, by authorizing the review of applications on a rolling basis in place of an annual selection board. Sailors can apply through their detailers to participate in the Career Intermission Pilot Program, which offers quotas for 20 officers and 20 enlisted members annually through 2012. Spots remain available from calendar year 2009. While participating in the program, Sailors must maintain their security clearances and professional certifications, meet physical fitness requirements, and adhere to Navy policies regarding conduct. For more information, visit the Navy Personnel (http://www.npc.navy.mil/CommandSupport/TaskForceLifeWork/Career+Intermission+Program.htm) Command's Career Intermission Program webpage.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/navy-news.html) Navy news on Military.com.
Exchanges Offer Fitness Catalog
Military shoppers don't need to look any further than the Army and Air Force Exchange Service's (AAFES) new 36-page (http://www.flickr.com/photos/aafespa/4037058871/?edited=1) 2009 All-Services Sports and Fitness Catalog for amazing array of treadmills, elliptical trainers, recumbent bikes and other sports equipment. The 2009 Sports and Fitness Catalog is available at all main stores and online at (http://www.aafes.com/) aafes.com, (http://www.usmc-mccs.org/) usmc-mccs.org, (https://www.navy-nex.com/) navy-nex.com or (http://www.cg-exchange.com/) cg-exchange.com. Prices in this all-services catalog are valid through Feb. 28, 2010, 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.
Find great discounts on products for military servicemembers only in the Military.com (http://img.military.com/misc/DC/DealIndex.jsp) Discount Center.
Exchanges Sponsor Holiday Giveaway
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) and Sandberg & Sikorski by Firestone are getting into the holiday spirit with their new (http://www.flickr.com/photos/aafespa/4046109105/?edited=1) Sandberg & Sikorski by Firestone Sweepstakes. Now through Dec. 24, BXs and PXs around the world are accepting entries for the sweepstakes. After Christmas Eve, three $3,000 shopping sprees will be awarded to one lucky AAFES shopper in the Continental United States, Pacific and Europe. Authorized exchange shoppers can confirm their exchanges participation by calling the numbers listed at the store locator link on the (http://odin.aafes.com/bases/index.asp) AAFES Store Locator webpage.
(http://www.military.com/news/page/home.html) For the most recent military news, visit Military.com.
Army Signs Agreement with University
Army Management Staff College (AMSC) signed another articulation agreement, demonstrating university recognition of its Civilian Education System (CES) program. Central Michigan University (CMU) is now accepting course credit for the CES Advanced Course, the fourth course in the progressive and sequential leader development program. CMU joins Webster University in offering credit for the CES Advanced Course. Advanced Course graduates now have the opportunity to transfer 12 credits to CMU's Master of Science in Administration. For more information about CES, visit the (http://www.amsc.belvoir.army.mil/academic/ces/) Army Management Staff College website.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/army-news.html) Army news on Military.com.
Mailing Dates for Afghanistan
U.S. Postal Service officials announced the recommended mailing dates for delivery by Christmas to U.S. military servicemembers serving in Afghanistan. Holiday mail send via first-class mail and priority mail for servicemembers stationed in Afghanistan should be sent by Dec. 4 for arrival by Christmas. The deadline for parcel airlift mail is Dec. 1, space-available mail is Nov. 21, and parcel post is Nov. 13. Priority mail packaging products, including the priority mail flat-rate boxes, can be obtained for free at any post office, or online at (http://shop.usps.com/) shop.usps.com. Updated mailing restrictions by individual APO/FPO zip are available on the U.S. Postal Service website at (http://www.usps.com/) www.usps.com.
To find more deployment news and resources, visit (http://www.military.com/deployment) The Deployment Center.
VFW Commander Addresses Archives Issue
The national commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., Thomas J. Tradewell, Sr., recently returned from a 12-day trip to Europe to urge the Russian government to revitalize the U.S.-Russia Joint Commission on POW/MIAs and reopen its military archives. According to U.S. officials in the Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office, Russia's military archives are vitally important to the Full Accounting Mission because documents in the archives could help to determine the fate of some of the 88,000 missing and unaccounted-for Americans going back to World War II. For more on the U.S. full accounting efforts, visit the (http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo/) Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office website or the (http://www.jpac.pacom.mil/) Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command website.
Obama Signs VA Healthcare Reform Law
President Barack Obama recently signed new legislation that creates predictable funding for veterans' health care. The Veterans Healthcare Reform and Transparency Act calls for appropriations a year in advance after more than two decades of regular budget delays. "No longer will VA and the veterans in its care have to suffer from the "check's in the mail' syndrome," said Clarence E. Hill, national commander of The American Legion. "Advance appropriations will go a long way toward minimizing compromises in the delivery of the high quality VA health care our veterans expect and deserve." The text of the new law is (http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_bills&docid=f:h1016enr.txt.pdf) available online.
(http://www.military.com/news/page/home.html) For the most recent military news, visit Military.com.
Veterans Day Teacher's Resources
The Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) maintains an informative website about (http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/) Veterans Day. The website offers a teacher's guide and a VA children's website. Other educational websites include the U.S. Army's Center of (http://www.history.army.mil/faq/vetsday/vetshist.htm) Military History's History of Veterans Day, (http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetdayhistory.asp) VA's History of Veterans Day, and the (http://www.military.com/veterans-day/) Military.com website.
Check out Military.com's (http://www.military.com/veterans-day/) Veteran's Day site.
Report Looks at Spinal Injuries
Research conducted by scientists at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine shows that axons of the central nervous system may be regenerated even when treatment delayed is more than a year after the original spinal cord injury. "The chronically injured axon is not dead," says lead author Mark Tuszynski, MD, PhD, professor of neurosciences and director of the Center for Neural Repair at UC San Diego, and neurologist at the Veterans Affairs San Diego Health System. " The report was published in the Oct. 29 issue of Neuron, a neuroscience academic journal published by the Cell Press and is available on the (http://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(09)00698-9) Neuron (http://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(09)00698-9) website.
VA Suicide Hotline
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates the largest mental health program in the nation. Department officials have established a suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (Veterans Press 1). Live, online chat is also available for veterans at the (http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Veterans) Suicide Prevention Lifeline website.
Get the latest (http://www.military.com/benefits/veterans-health-care) Veteran Health Care information on Military.com.
Superior Life Insurance for You and Your Family
AFBA offers life insurance products that suit the needs of a military family. There is no medical exam requirement for active duty, Guard, and Reserve under age 50, for coverage up to $250,000. They also offer emergency death benefits. Within 24 hours of receiving notice of a member's death, AFBA will mail $15,000 to the member's beneficiary. (http://www.military.com/finance/insurance/afba?esrc=mr.nl) Contact AFBA today to learn how they can protect you and your family.
Free Gowns for Military Brides
The Norfolk, Va. bridal salon Maya Couture is one of several stores across the country that will participate in a Veterans Day giveaway of a limited number of free designer wedding gowns to military brides-to-be. The giveaway is organized by Brides Across America, a nationwide charity dedicated to providing free wedding gowns for military brides. Brides Across America and its partners have given more than 1,500 wedding gowns nationwide since its inception. For more information, including a list of bridal salons across the country that plan to participate in the nationwide military wedding gown giveaway to commemorate Veterans Day, visit the (http://www.bridesacrossamerica.com/) Brides Across America website.
To find more family resources visit the (http://www.military.com/military-spouse-network) Military Spouse Network.
Vet History Project Features Interviews
The Veterans History Project (VHP) at the Library of Congress American Folklife Center is currently featuring the interviews of United States Coast Guard and Merchant Marine veterans in "They Also Served" -- a website with a dozen first-person accounts of those who went to sea to transport troops, deliver vital supplies, protect our shores, and patrol enemy waters. These one-of-a-kind stories can be found at the Veterans History Project website at (http://www.loc.gov/vets/) www.loc.gov/vets/. Volunteer interviewers for the project may request information at (mailto:%20vohp@loc.gov) vohp@loc.gov or the toll-free message line at (888) 371-5848.
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.
Navy Stop-Loss Window Opens
The Department of Defense (DoD) recently announced the implementation of plans to issue retroactive stop-loss special pay to compensate active duty, Reserve component, former and retired servicemembers with Navy critical skills who served during two periods: Oct. 10, 2001, to Dec. 31, 2002, and Apr. 3, 2003, to Sept. 15, 2003. Personnel with the critical skills identified during those two periods of stop loss are encouraged to apply for the benefit. All applicants must provide documentation that they were "stop lossed" during one of these two periods. For additional questions, contact the Customer Service Center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC or visit the (http://www.npc.navy.mil/) Naval Personnel Command website.
All military pay information can be found in Military.com's (http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay) Pay Section.
Cash for Illinois Veterans
Illinois Veterans will get 100 percent of the net proceeds from a special state lottery game. The new Stars and Stripes scratch-off tickets will be on sale for about six months as part of the Veterans' Cash program. The state expects to raise more than $1 million from the new lottery tickets. For more information, including how to apply for an Illinois Veterans Cash Grant, visit the (http://www.veterans.illinois.gov/programs/veterans_cash.htm) Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs website.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
Navy Band's Holiday Concert
The United States Navy Band's "Season of Magic" holiday concert will be held at DAR Constitution Hall, Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. Capt. George N. Thompson will lead the United States Navy Band along with the Sea Chanters chorus, Country Current country-bluegrass group and the Cruisers contemporary music ensemble. The concert will be broadcast worldwide through the Direct-to-Sailor network and Pentagon channel, as well as other networks. The concert will be aired locally as well. The concert is free, but tickets are required. Visit the United States Navy Band website at (http://www.navyband.navy.mil/) www.navyband.navy.mil for information on how to order tickets.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/navy-news.html) Navy news at Military.com.
Eat Free at Applebee's
Military veterans and active-duty servicemembers will be able to eat for free at any Applebee's across the U.S. on Veterans Day, Wed., Nov. 11, 2009. There will be six entres from the menu to choose from. Guests will be asked to show one or more of the following as proof of service: a U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, a photograph in uniform, or wearing a uniform in person. For more information about Veterans Day at Applebee's, visit the Applebee's website at (http://www.applebees.com/vetsday) www.applebees.com/vetsday. A complete listing of all Applebee's locations is available at (http://www.applebees.com/) www.applebees.com.
Holiday Shopping at the Exchange
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service's (AAFES) plans several promotions and prizes during this holiday season. Exclusive savings on tax-free holiday decorations, care package items and electronics will be offered in BXs and PXs every week throughout November. During the post-Thanksgiving blitz will be thousands of scratch-off cards given out to early birds and customers who shop the exchange after 4 p.m. from Nov. 27-29. Every scratch-off will be a winner. The AAFES also has a variety of special events planned for December including Early Bird specials on Dec. 5, 19 and 24. For more information, updated weekly, visit the (http://www.aafes.com/) AAFES website or their local exchange.
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AF Changes Civilian Hiring Policy
Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees will now be referred to the hiring official along with current Air Force civilians for all permanent Air Force civilian positions. Former Air Force employees who were realigned under the Army or Navy because of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) or joint basing initiatives will have an avenue to return to the Air Force with the policy change. The change comes as the Air Force is increasing the number of available civilian jobs. For more information on Air Force civilian jobs, visit the (http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/afcivilianjobs/) Air Force Personnel Center website.
To access the largest veteran job board in the world, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/Careers/Home/0,13373,,00.htm) Career Center.
Vets Eat Free at Golden Corral
Golden Corral's 9th annual Military Appreciation Monday dinner will be held on Monday, November 16, 2009, from 5 to 9 pm in all Golden Corral restaurants nationwide. The free dinner meal is a special "thank you tribute" to any person who has ever served in the United States Military. If you are a veteran, retired, currently serving, in the National Guard or Reserves, you are invited to join us for Golden Corral's Military Appreciation Monday dinner. To date, Golden Corral restaurants have provided over 2.2 million free meals and contributed over $3.3 million to the Disabled American Veterans organization.
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.
TRICARE Retiree Dental Premium Increase
The first annual TRDP premium rate change took effect on October 1, 2009 for the second contract year, October 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010. Subsequent changes for the third and fourth contract years will be effective October 1, 2010 through September 30, 2011 and October 1, 2011 through September 30, 2012, respectively. This annual premium adjustment is automatic and will be reflected in the allotment from your retired pay or, if you are billed directly, in your payment coupons or EFT (electronic funds transfer) debit applicable to your October 1 payment. To find out the new premium rates for your region, use the (http://www.trdp.org/pro/premiumSrch.html) online premium search.
Military Health Conference in January
Three-thousand military and civilian medical personnel from the U.S. Department of Defense Military Health System (MHS) are expected to attend the 2010 MHS Conference, which will provide health-care professionals a platform to share knowledge and improve best practices. Each day will feature its own educational theme, and all plenary and breakout sessions aligned to the daily themes. For registration information, visit the (http://www.health.mil/Pages/Page.aspx?ID=72) 2010 MHS Conference website.
Get more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/all-benefits-news.html) Military Health Care news on Military.com.
'Laptops for Flat Tops' Military Contest
AllAmericanDirect.com, a leading e-commerce provider of consumer goods and services, today announces the company's fourth and final Laptops for Flat Tops contest, which will award one laptop with an embedded Webcam (for the family) and an additional Webcam (for the soldier) to two families who have an immediate family member serving in any branch of the U.S. military overseas.
To learn more, (http://www.military.com/news/article/laptops-for-flat-tops-military-contest.html) read the full article on Military.com.
Flu Information and Resources
The U.S. Department of Defense Military Health System created its (http://www.health.mil/Pages/Page.aspx?ID=81) Influenza Resources information webpage to help servicemembers and their families find the resources they need to protect themselves and those in their care from influenza during the 2009-2010 flu season. The resources linked to from the webpage page focus on the H1N1 flu virus (also referred to as "swine flu") as well as regular seasonal flu. These are the two types of flu that present the largest threat to humans during this flu season.
Naval Chaplain School Relocates
The U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps recently relocated and consolidated its chaplain and enlisted religious program specialist (RP) training schools from Newport, R.I and Meridian, Miss. to a new facility at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C. The new facility, Naval Chaplaincy School and Center, is collocated with the Air Force Chaplain Corps College and the U.S. Army Chaplain School and Center at the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Center. Although the center will hold its official dedication ceremony sometime in early 2010, it is already hosting new students. For more information on the Naval Chaplaincy School, visit its (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Columbia-SC/Naval-Chaplaincy-School-and-Center/63723476839) Facebook page.
Find more of the the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/navy-news.html) Navy News on Military.com.
Navy Launches New Post Grad Program
The Naval Postgraduate School recently launched a new distance learning certificate program in Human Systems Integration open to all federal government personnel including officers and enlisted military. The four courses in the one-year, all-online interdisciplinary program are designed to educate and train Human Systems Integration practitioners in the state-of-the-art policies and processes needed to conduct HSI in Department of Defense and other federal agencies. Classes are asynchronous, and instructors are regularly available by e-mail. For an informational video on the new program, visit the (http://faculty.nps.edu/dl/HSI_Certificate_program/HSI_program_videoHIRes/index.html) Naval Postgraduate School website.
To learn more about military education benefits, visit the Military.com (http://education.military.com/education-home/) Education Channel.
A Groundbreaking PTSD Court Decision
A groundbreaking verdict for accused veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was decided recently in Canyon City, Ore. when former Soldier Jesse Bratcher, on trial for murder, was found guilty by reason of insanity. It appears to be the first trial in the U.S. where a veteran's post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was successfully considered to mitigate the circumstances of a crime. For more information on the case, visit the (http://www.nvf.org/blog/item/50) National Veterans Foundation website.
(http://www.military.com/news/stories/ptsd-news.html) More information and resources on PTSD.
CAL VA Audit Released
A new audit report issued by California's Independent State Auditor Elaine Howle found that the California Department of Veterans Affairs isn't delivering services as well as it should to the two million veterans living in the state. The report by the California Bureau of State Audits recommends that the California Department of Veterans' Affairs develops measurable goals and objectives that are directly aligned with the needs of the veteran community, based on a formal assessment of veterans' needs. A summary of the audit report is (http://www.bsa.ca.gov/reports/summary/2009-108) available online. The full audit report is (http://www.bsa.ca.gov/pdfs/reports/2009-108.pdf) available online.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
The Vet Set: Introduction to Voc Rehab
In this first "Vet Set" installment, Benjamin Krause lays the foundation for a seven part series designed to help veterans navigate the red tape of the VA Voc Rehab program. Learn how you may be able to tap into a more robust version of VA education benefits. In addition, Ben can guide you through the application process helping get to your benefits more quickly. (http://www.military.com/opinion/0,15202,204855,00.html) Read the full article.
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Featured Job: Military Friendly Employers
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Get Your GI Bill Guide Today
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Having Trouble Balancing Your Finances
Visit the (http://www.military.com/Finance/?esrc=mr.nl) finance center for tips on balancing your budget, finding the right insurance, PCSing, auto and home loans, taxes advantages for veterans and more.
