Print & Post: Week of November 16, 2009
USO, Skype Holiday Connection Offer
Skype and the USO have joined to give troops in the Guam, Yokosuka, and Camp Hansen (Okinawa) USO centers the chance to connect with their families stateside, through Skype conversations during Thanksgiving dinner. Those interested in learning more about the program and how military families can connect with Skype can log onto the Holiday Military Connection program website: (http://www.skype.com/go/uso) www.skype.com/go/uso. Visitors to the site can also submit their own story of how Skype keeps them connected.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/skype-and-uso-connect-military-families-for-holidays.html) Read the full article.
VA Plan to End Vet Homelessness
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki unveiled the department's comprehensive plan to end homelessness among veterans by marshalling the resources of government, business and the private sector. Shinseki's plan includes preventive measures such as discharge planning for incarcerated veterans re-entering society, supportive services for low-income veterans and their families, and a national referral center to link veterans to local service providers. Additionally, the plan calls for expanded efforts for education, jobs, health care and housing.
Read the entire press release to learn more about the VA's (http://www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=1807) detailed plan to end Homelessness for veterans.
Be an AF Physician Assistant
Air Force officials are taking applications from active-duty enlisted Airmen for Physician Assistant Phase I Training classes beginning December 2010, and April 2011 - August 2011. Completed applications must be received at the Air Force Personnel Center's Biomedical Science Corps Utilization and Education Branch, AFPC/DPAMW, 550 C Street West, Suite 27, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas 78150-4729 no later than Jan. 25. The selection board is scheduled to convene at the Air Force Personnel Center here March 16. For more information on applying for the physician assistant program, Airmen should visit their local education office, view AFPC's "ASK" website and search the key words "physician assistant," or call the 24-hour Total Force Service Center at 800-525-0102.
Learn about more opportunities with the Air Force with Military.com's (http://www.military.com/Recruiting/InterestMatcher/0,11937,,00.html) Interest Matcher.
Guard Gets H1N1 Vaccinations
The Defense Department acquired enough doses of the H1N1 flu vaccine to immunize all 460,000 members of the National Guard. The supply will go out to the Guard through the Army Medical Materiel Agency. All states ordered the vaccine through the agency, which is the same way that states order the seasonal flu vaccine. For Air Guard personnel, the H1N1 injectable vaccine has been ordered through the active-duty host base, using the same method and guidance as for the seasonal flu vaccine. Exact dates for shipments of the Defense Department vaccine will differ from state to state. The vaccine will be mandatory for uniformed personnel and highly encouraged for all others, according to a Defense Department memo. Priority will be given to deployed and deploying forces, new accession sites, including the service academies, and health care personnel.
Air Force Job Openings
The Air Force is hiring more than 9,000 new positions in fiscal year 2010. The Air Force projects an even larger hiring surge in fiscal year 2011 with an estimated 25,000 new positions by fiscal year 2013. Open positions are posted on USAJOBS. Visit the (http://www.usajobs.gov/) USAJOBS website to review the list of current openings.
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.
Free CUNY Veterans' College Fair 2009
The City University of New York (CUNY) is presenting its 2009 College Fair for Veterans from 3:00 to 7:00 PM on November 23, 2009 at the Borough of Manhatten Community College. The event is geared specifically for veterans to learn how CUNY can ease the transition from military to academic life. Participants will learn about the admissions process, paying for college, and what to expect as a veteran student. All active duty military, reservists, veterans, dependents, and survivors are welcome to this free event. Visit CUNY's Veterans web site to pre-register and enter to win a notebook computer, visit: (http://cuny.edu/about/veterans.html) cuny.edu/veterans
Military Spouse Relief Act Becomes Law
When the military orders servicemembers to move, spouses who move with them often have to pay taxes in a new state or locality and lose the right to vote in the place considered to be home. The "Military Spouses Residency Relief Act," now allows military spouses to retain residency in his or her home state for voting and tax purposes after relocating. This legislation is designed to maintain the morale and readiness of our Armed Forces and significantly enhance the ability of our military to effectively recruit and retain these highly valued service personnel. To learn more, read the (http://paycheck-chronicles.military.com/2009/11/military-spouse-residency-relief-act.html) full blog post on SpouseBUZZ.
New AF Cyberspace Career Field
Air Force officials converted more than 43,000 total force enlisted Airmen from former communications career fields to cyberspace support Nov. 1. The new Air Force specialty is made up of three former career fields: communications-electronics, knowledge operations management, and communications-computer systems-3CXXX. The new cyberspace support career field is broken into 11 new Air Force specialty codes(BULLETED LIST): 3D0X1, knowledge operations management; 3D0X2, cyber systems operations; 3D0X3, cyber surety; 3D0X4, computer systems programming; 3D1X1, client systems; 3D1X2, cyber transport systems; 3D1X3, RF transmission systems; 3D1X4, spectrum operations; 3D1X5, ground radar systems; 3D1X6, airfield systems; and 3D1X7, cable and antenna systems. The new cyberspace support badge should be available at the AAFES Clothing Sales in the coming months and will be mandatory June 1, 2010.
Find more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) Air Force news on Military.com.
Deal of the Week: GM Military Discount
Active duty and Reserves of the U.S. Military can save big on most 2008 and 2009 GM vehicles. Visit (http://ad.doubleclick.net/clk;211761619;33155407;b) gmmilitarydiscount.com to learn more.
State Veteran Benefits
Veterans pursuing their educational goals are usually eligible for "educational assistance for students" in most states. Educational benefits for veterans and their dependents, particularly the children of deceased and disabled veterans, are also available in some states. Military.com has developed an online general summary of educational benefits for veterans and their dependents. (http://www.military.com/money-for-school/state-veteran-benefits?ESRC=vr.nl) View the full summary by state here.
Additional Tools for Your Benefits:
(http://www.military.com/gi-bill-calculator/?ESRC=vr.nl) GI Bill Calculator - Find out which GI Bill offers more
(http://edu.military.com/gibill/?ESRC=vr.nl) Military Friendly Schools - Connect with schools who give credit for service
(http://aid.military.com/scholarship/search-for-scholarships.do?ESRC=vr.nl) Scholarship Search - Over $300 Million in scholarships listed
Featured Job: Overseas Jobs Available
There are hundreds of job opportunities overseas. Military.com connects you with companies who want people with military experience. Visit the Overseas Job Center now to (http://www.military.com/overseas?ESRC=mr.nl ) find a new job and new adventure.
Featured Job: Healthcare
Within the state of Ohio there are many (http://ohiomeansjobs.indeed.com/jobs/Healthcare-Jobs-in-Ohio) medical and healthcare opportunities for veterans.
Free CUNY Veterans' College Fair
The City University of New York (CUNY) is presenting its 2009 College Fair for Veterans from 3:00 to 7:00 PM on November 23, 2009 at the Borough of Manhatten Community College. The event is geared specifically for veterans to learn how CUNY can ease the transition from military to academic life. Participants will learn about the admissions process, paying for college, and what to expect as a veteran student. All active duty military, reservists, veterans, dependents, and survivors are welcome to this free event. Visit CUNY's Veterans web site to pre-register and enter to win a notebook computer, visit: (http://cuny.edu/about/veterans.html) cuny.edu/veterans
USAA Open to All Vets Who Honorably Served
Craig's List Founder Joins VA Panel
Craig Newmark, the founder of craigslist.com agreed to serve on the blue-ribbon panel of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that will review and evaluate ideas to improve disability claims processing times and provide greater transparency to Veterans. The innovation competition solicited ideas from VA employees and members of Veterans Service Organizations who are on the frontlines every day, working with veterans to help deliver benefits they deserve and need. VA officials from each of the 57 regional offices across the country submitted promising ideas. The panel will review the top 17 submissions and chose five projects that will receive full funding for project development and execution at the Regional Office that submitted the idea.
Yellow Ribbon Highway Honors Active Duty
The Washington State Department of Transportation dedicated State Route 529 as the Yellow Ribbon Highway during a ceremony Nov. 5 in Everett, Wash. Naval Station (NAVSTA) Everett personnel, elected officials and community members were present to unveil the new signs that will be posted along the stretch of road, which connects Marysville and Everett, and runs in front of the base. This designation honors all active U.S. military personnel residing and serving in Washington and deployed to foreign assignments.
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.
Deal of the Week: Coupons for Veterans
Military.com has hundreds and discounts exclusively for veterans and their families. Don't pay full price for anything -- cars, clothing, computers, electronics, vacations, groceries, beauty, home, jewelry, vacations and more. (http://benefits.military.com/DC/DealIndex.jsp?ESRC=vr.nl) Browse coupons and discounts now.
Job Opportunities for Military Spouses
A new executive policy pushed open the door for qualifying military spouses to enter the federal workforce, enabling them to apply for more jobs advertised on USAJOBS. The executive order identified three groups of spouses now eligible to apply for temporary, term and permanent employment in all pay grades: The order includes the spouse of a servicemember who has been issued orders for a permanent change of station (PCS) that requires relocating, the spouse of a servicemember who retired with a 100 percent disability rating, or an un-remarried widow or widower of an servicemember killed while in active-duty status. For specific details on the noncompetitive appointment of certain military spouses, go to (http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/) http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/ and Quick Search "RIN 3206-AL73."
For more information or to search for military-spouse friendly jobs, visit Military.com's (http://www.military.com/spouse) Spouse Career Center.
AF Seeks NCOA Award Nominations
Air Force officials need nominations for the 2010 Noncommissioned Officers Association Vanguard Award. Nominees must be between the rank of senior airman and chief master sergeant who performed a heroic act, on or off duty, which resulted in saving someone's life or preventing serious injury. To be considered for the award, the act must be voluntarily initiated and not a result of directions or orders. It must also have been a legitimate attempt to save a life or prevent serious injury to another person -- not an act of bravado. To be eligible, the heroic act must have occurred between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2009. For more information on the noncompetitive appointment of certain military spouses, call the Total Force Service Center at 800-525-0102.
Find more of the (http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) latest Air Force news on Military.com.
Leavenworth Cemetery to Expand
VA announced a $10 million contract to expand the Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kan. The contract valued at $10,187,903 was awarded to a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business from Topeka, Kan. The project, scheduled for completion in early 2011, will develop 36 acres, providing approximately 14,000 additional gravesites at the 123-year-old cemetery. For information about the Leavenworth National Cemetery, call the cemetery office at (913) 758-4105. Learn about other burial benefits at (http://www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial) www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial.
Read more of the (http://www.military.com/news/stories/veteran-benefits-news.html) latest news on veteran benefits on Military.com.
Jacksonville, Fla. Cemetery Expansion
VA announced an $11.8 million contract to develop the next phase of the Jacksonville, Fla., National Cemetery, which opened for burials in January 2009. The Department of Veterans Affairs awarded the contract to a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business from Hampton, Va. This 68-acre development is expected to provide an estimated eight years of burial benefits for Veterans and their families. The project is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2011.
Learn about other burial benefits at (http://www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial) www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial
CLEP Your Way to a Degree
Although you have surely heard of CLEP tests, you may not know that these credit-by-exam tests are widely accepted by colleges and universities. In addition, by passing these examinations you can earn one-third or more of the credits you need for a college degree. If you haven't started taking your CLEP exams yet, then contact your education service or Navy College office to find out you can get started. If you have already taken your CLEP exams, then the next step is search for military-friendly schools that are VA-approved and experienced with the CLEP and other credit-by exam tests. (http://edu.military.com/gibill/?ESRC=mr.nl) Search for schools now.
(http://www.military.com/timesaving-programs/use-clep-program-to-reach-your-goals?ESRC=mr.nl) Get more information on CLEP.
Update: 2010 Military Retirement COLA
Each year military retirement pay is adjusted to meet the increased cost of living. This Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) varies from year to year based on the previous year's (http://www.bls.gov/cpi/cpifaq.htm#Question_1 href=) Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI dipped below 4 percent in the first two quarters of FY2009 and was still in negative numbers at the end of the fiscal year. Due to the negative CPI in FY2009 there will likely be no COLA increase for military retirees in 2010.
Help the Legion Help Recovering Heroes
The American Legion is renewing its fundraising efforts for the holiday season by purchasing comfort items for troops recovering in U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units around the world through its Operation Comfort Warriors campaign. Donors can make online contributions by visiting (http://www.legion.org/ocw) www.legion.org/ocw or by sending a check to Operation Comfort Warriors, PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.
For more information, or to join The American Legion go to (http://www.legion.org/join) http://www.legion.org/join.
VA's New Look Website
VA launched the first and most visible phase of a big Web renovation project that will better serve our nation's veterans. The conversion began on Nov.8, and was scheduled to be completed by Veterans Day, Nov. 11. VA asks members to understand that as they implement this new design across more than 500 VA websites there may be minor errors on some of the 80,000 pages. VA will studiously examine all pages after the conversion and make corrections as needed. (http://www1.va.gov/opa/va_redesigned.asp) Check out more information on the changes.
The Key to Getting Voc-Rehab Started
Author and veteran advocate Ben Krause offers his insight into the process of applying for Voc-Rehabilitation. In part one of his new seven-part series, Ben explains that to it takes persistence, preparation and a desire to win to get through the Voc-Rehab application process.
(http://www.military.com/opinion/0,15202,205642,00.html) Read the full article at Military.com
More Veterans in Government
President Barack Obama signed an executive order Nov. 9 aimed at hiring more veterans to work in the federal government. The order calls on each federal agency to establish a veterans employment program office designed to help veterans get through the maze of paperwork as they apply for positions in the federal work force and mandates that agencies train personnel specialists on veteran employment policies. The federal hiring process will be streamlined to make it easier for people to apply for federal jobs. (http://www.military.com/news/article/wh-in-major-push-for-vets-employment.html) Read the full article at Military.com
Vets' Caregiver Bill Stalled
More than a month after the new fiscal year began, the House and Senate are working to pass a group of bills to improve veterans' benefits and health programs. However, Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.), is stalling the bill's process because he believes his colleagues are too willing to pass or spend whatever is necessary to assure their reelection. The $3.7 billion packet of health care initiatives, called an omnibus bill, includes the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009 (S. 1963). Read the full article at (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,205283,00.html) Military.com.
(http://vote.military.com/military/issues/alert/?alertid=14300291&type=CO) How do you feel about this action? Let your public officials know how you feel!
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 serve 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 U.S. Postal Service website.
Not sure what to get your servicemember for the holidays? We've gathered dozens of gift ideas for everyone on your list, no matter what your budget is! Find the perfect presents with the (http://www.military.com/Deals/Home/0,13401,,00.htm) Holiday Gift Guide.
Retirees and Vets Allowed to Salute Flag
Traditionally, members of the nation's veterans service organizations render the hand-salute during the national anthem and at events involving the national flag while wearing their organization's official head-gear. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 contained an amendment to allow un-uniformed servicemembers, military retirees, and veterans to render a hand salute during the hoisting, lowering, or passing of the U.S. flag. A later amendment further authorized hand-salutes during the national anthem by veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel. This was included in the Defense Authorization Act of 2009, which Former President Bush signed on Oct. 14, 2008.
VA Working to Improve Vet Education
The Department of Veterans Affairs is working with Florida and other states to help veterans make the transition from combat to college life. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki addressed educators and veterans during a conference at the University of South Florida on the importance of programs that ease the transition from active duty to veteran status. He emphasized the significance of ongoing outreach to ensure that veterans are fully informed of available education benefits, the newest of which is the Post 9/11 GI Bill. To further aid veteran-students, VA and USF began "VetSuccess on Campus," a pilot program designed to ease the transition process -- particularly for disabled veterans. The program places VA's Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Service and mental health counselors on campus to help Veterans succeed in college. It will eventually expand to other parts of the country.
For more information about VA's education benefits, visit (http://www.va.gov/) www.va.gov.
Skype and the USO have joined to give troops in the Guam, Yokosuka, and Camp Hansen (Okinawa) USO centers the chance to connect with their families stateside, through Skype conversations during Thanksgiving dinner. Those interested in learning more about the program and how military families can connect with Skype can log onto the Holiday Military Connection program website: (http://www.skype.com/go/uso) www.skype.com/go/uso. Visitors to the site can also submit their own story of how Skype keeps them connected.
(http://www.military.com/news/article/skype-and-uso-connect-military-families-for-holidays.html) Read the full article.
VA Plan to End Vet Homelessness
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki unveiled the department's comprehensive plan to end homelessness among veterans by marshalling the resources of government, business and the private sector. Shinseki's plan includes preventive measures such as discharge planning for incarcerated veterans re-entering society, supportive services for low-income veterans and their families, and a national referral center to link veterans to local service providers. Additionally, the plan calls for expanded efforts for education, jobs, health care and housing.
Read the entire press release to learn more about the VA's (http://www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=1807) detailed plan to end Homelessness for veterans.
Be an AF Physician Assistant
Air Force officials are taking applications from active-duty enlisted Airmen for Physician Assistant Phase I Training classes beginning December 2010, and April 2011 - August 2011. Completed applications must be received at the Air Force Personnel Center's Biomedical Science Corps Utilization and Education Branch, AFPC/DPAMW, 550 C Street West, Suite 27, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas 78150-4729 no later than Jan. 25. The selection board is scheduled to convene at the Air Force Personnel Center here March 16. For more information on applying for the physician assistant program, Airmen should visit their local education office, view AFPC's "ASK" website and search the key words "physician assistant," or call the 24-hour Total Force Service Center at 800-525-0102.
Learn about more opportunities with the Air Force with Military.com's (http://www.military.com/Recruiting/InterestMatcher/0,11937,,00.html) Interest Matcher.
Guard Gets H1N1 Vaccinations
The Defense Department acquired enough doses of the H1N1 flu vaccine to immunize all 460,000 members of the National Guard. The supply will go out to the Guard through the Army Medical Materiel Agency. All states ordered the vaccine through the agency, which is the same way that states order the seasonal flu vaccine. For Air Guard personnel, the H1N1 injectable vaccine has been ordered through the active-duty host base, using the same method and guidance as for the seasonal flu vaccine. Exact dates for shipments of the Defense Department vaccine will differ from state to state. The vaccine will be mandatory for uniformed personnel and highly encouraged for all others, according to a Defense Department memo. Priority will be given to deployed and deploying forces, new accession sites, including the service academies, and health care personnel.
Air Force Job Openings
The Air Force is hiring more than 9,000 new positions in fiscal year 2010. The Air Force projects an even larger hiring surge in fiscal year 2011 with an estimated 25,000 new positions by fiscal year 2013. Open positions are posted on USAJOBS. Visit the (http://www.usajobs.gov/) USAJOBS website to review the list of current openings.
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.
Free CUNY Veterans' College Fair 2009
The City University of New York (CUNY) is presenting its 2009 College Fair for Veterans from 3:00 to 7:00 PM on November 23, 2009 at the Borough of Manhatten Community College. The event is geared specifically for veterans to learn how CUNY can ease the transition from military to academic life. Participants will learn about the admissions process, paying for college, and what to expect as a veteran student. All active duty military, reservists, veterans, dependents, and survivors are welcome to this free event. Visit CUNY's Veterans web site to pre-register and enter to win a notebook computer, visit: (http://cuny.edu/about/veterans.html) cuny.edu/veterans
Military Spouse Relief Act Becomes Law
When the military orders servicemembers to move, spouses who move with them often have to pay taxes in a new state or locality and lose the right to vote in the place considered to be home. The "Military Spouses Residency Relief Act," now allows military spouses to retain residency in his or her home state for voting and tax purposes after relocating. This legislation is designed to maintain the morale and readiness of our Armed Forces and significantly enhance the ability of our military to effectively recruit and retain these highly valued service personnel. To learn more, read the (http://paycheck-chronicles.military.com/2009/11/military-spouse-residency-relief-act.html) full blog post on SpouseBUZZ.
New AF Cyberspace Career Field
Air Force officials converted more than 43,000 total force enlisted Airmen from former communications career fields to cyberspace support Nov. 1. The new Air Force specialty is made up of three former career fields: communications-electronics, knowledge operations management, and communications-computer systems-3CXXX. The new cyberspace support career field is broken into 11 new Air Force specialty codes(BULLETED LIST): 3D0X1, knowledge operations management; 3D0X2, cyber systems operations; 3D0X3, cyber surety; 3D0X4, computer systems programming; 3D1X1, client systems; 3D1X2, cyber transport systems; 3D1X3, RF transmission systems; 3D1X4, spectrum operations; 3D1X5, ground radar systems; 3D1X6, airfield systems; and 3D1X7, cable and antenna systems. The new cyberspace support badge should be available at the AAFES Clothing Sales in the coming months and will be mandatory June 1, 2010.
Find more of the latest (http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) Air Force news on Military.com.
Deal of the Week: GM Military Discount
Active duty and Reserves of the U.S. Military can save big on most 2008 and 2009 GM vehicles. Visit (http://ad.doubleclick.net/clk;211761619;33155407;b) gmmilitarydiscount.com to learn more.
State Veteran Benefits
Veterans pursuing their educational goals are usually eligible for "educational assistance for students" in most states. Educational benefits for veterans and their dependents, particularly the children of deceased and disabled veterans, are also available in some states. Military.com has developed an online general summary of educational benefits for veterans and their dependents. (http://www.military.com/money-for-school/state-veteran-benefits?ESRC=vr.nl) View the full summary by state here.
Additional Tools for Your Benefits:
(http://www.military.com/gi-bill-calculator/?ESRC=vr.nl) GI Bill Calculator - Find out which GI Bill offers more
(http://edu.military.com/gibill/?ESRC=vr.nl) Military Friendly Schools - Connect with schools who give credit for service
(http://aid.military.com/scholarship/search-for-scholarships.do?ESRC=vr.nl) Scholarship Search - Over $300 Million in scholarships listed
Featured Job: Overseas Jobs Available
There are hundreds of job opportunities overseas. Military.com connects you with companies who want people with military experience. Visit the Overseas Job Center now to (http://www.military.com/overseas?ESRC=mr.nl ) find a new job and new adventure.
Featured Job: Healthcare
Within the state of Ohio there are many (http://ohiomeansjobs.indeed.com/jobs/Healthcare-Jobs-in-Ohio) medical and healthcare opportunities for veterans.
Free CUNY Veterans' College Fair
The City University of New York (CUNY) is presenting its 2009 College Fair for Veterans from 3:00 to 7:00 PM on November 23, 2009 at the Borough of Manhatten Community College. The event is geared specifically for veterans to learn how CUNY can ease the transition from military to academic life. Participants will learn about the admissions process, paying for college, and what to expect as a veteran student. All active duty military, reservists, veterans, dependents, and survivors are welcome to this free event. Visit CUNY's Veterans web site to pre-register and enter to win a notebook computer, visit: (http://cuny.edu/about/veterans.html) cuny.edu/veterans
USAA Open to All Vets Who Honorably Served
Citing steady growth in financial strength and operational capacity, USAA announced that effective immediately, membership now is open to all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who served honorably, regardless of years of service. The change expands USAA's potential customer by an estimated 35 million, including 18 million veterans, and 17 million spouses and children who also would be able to access USAA services after their veteran relative becomes a member. To learn more, (http://www.military.com/news/article/usaa-opens-membership-to-more-vets.html) read the full article on Military.com.
Craig's List Founder Joins VA Panel
Craig Newmark, the founder of craigslist.com agreed to serve on the blue-ribbon panel of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that will review and evaluate ideas to improve disability claims processing times and provide greater transparency to Veterans. The innovation competition solicited ideas from VA employees and members of Veterans Service Organizations who are on the frontlines every day, working with veterans to help deliver benefits they deserve and need. VA officials from each of the 57 regional offices across the country submitted promising ideas. The panel will review the top 17 submissions and chose five projects that will receive full funding for project development and execution at the Regional Office that submitted the idea.
Yellow Ribbon Highway Honors Active Duty
The Washington State Department of Transportation dedicated State Route 529 as the Yellow Ribbon Highway during a ceremony Nov. 5 in Everett, Wash. Naval Station (NAVSTA) Everett personnel, elected officials and community members were present to unveil the new signs that will be posted along the stretch of road, which connects Marysville and Everett, and runs in front of the base. This designation honors all active U.S. military personnel residing and serving in Washington and deployed to foreign assignments.
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.
Deal of the Week: Coupons for Veterans
Military.com has hundreds and discounts exclusively for veterans and their families. Don't pay full price for anything -- cars, clothing, computers, electronics, vacations, groceries, beauty, home, jewelry, vacations and more. (http://benefits.military.com/DC/DealIndex.jsp?ESRC=vr.nl) Browse coupons and discounts now.
Job Opportunities for Military Spouses
A new executive policy pushed open the door for qualifying military spouses to enter the federal workforce, enabling them to apply for more jobs advertised on USAJOBS. The executive order identified three groups of spouses now eligible to apply for temporary, term and permanent employment in all pay grades: The order includes the spouse of a servicemember who has been issued orders for a permanent change of station (PCS) that requires relocating, the spouse of a servicemember who retired with a 100 percent disability rating, or an un-remarried widow or widower of an servicemember killed while in active-duty status. For specific details on the noncompetitive appointment of certain military spouses, go to (http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/) http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/ and Quick Search "RIN 3206-AL73."
For more information or to search for military-spouse friendly jobs, visit Military.com's (http://www.military.com/spouse) Spouse Career Center.
AF Seeks NCOA Award Nominations
Air Force officials need nominations for the 2010 Noncommissioned Officers Association Vanguard Award. Nominees must be between the rank of senior airman and chief master sergeant who performed a heroic act, on or off duty, which resulted in saving someone's life or preventing serious injury. To be considered for the award, the act must be voluntarily initiated and not a result of directions or orders. It must also have been a legitimate attempt to save a life or prevent serious injury to another person -- not an act of bravado. To be eligible, the heroic act must have occurred between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2009. For more information on the noncompetitive appointment of certain military spouses, call the Total Force Service Center at 800-525-0102.
Find more of the (http://www.military.com/news/stories/air-force-news.html) latest Air Force news on Military.com.
Leavenworth Cemetery to Expand
VA announced a $10 million contract to expand the Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kan. The contract valued at $10,187,903 was awarded to a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business from Topeka, Kan. The project, scheduled for completion in early 2011, will develop 36 acres, providing approximately 14,000 additional gravesites at the 123-year-old cemetery. For information about the Leavenworth National Cemetery, call the cemetery office at (913) 758-4105. Learn about other burial benefits at (http://www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial) www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial.
Read more of the (http://www.military.com/news/stories/veteran-benefits-news.html) latest news on veteran benefits on Military.com.
Jacksonville, Fla. Cemetery Expansion
VA announced an $11.8 million contract to develop the next phase of the Jacksonville, Fla., National Cemetery, which opened for burials in January 2009. The Department of Veterans Affairs awarded the contract to a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business from Hampton, Va. This 68-acre development is expected to provide an estimated eight years of burial benefits for Veterans and their families. The project is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2011.
Learn about other burial benefits at (http://www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial) www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial
CLEP Your Way to a Degree
Although you have surely heard of CLEP tests, you may not know that these credit-by-exam tests are widely accepted by colleges and universities. In addition, by passing these examinations you can earn one-third or more of the credits you need for a college degree. If you haven't started taking your CLEP exams yet, then contact your education service or Navy College office to find out you can get started. If you have already taken your CLEP exams, then the next step is search for military-friendly schools that are VA-approved and experienced with the CLEP and other credit-by exam tests. (http://edu.military.com/gibill/?ESRC=mr.nl) Search for schools now.
(http://www.military.com/timesaving-programs/use-clep-program-to-reach-your-goals?ESRC=mr.nl) Get more information on CLEP.
Update: 2010 Military Retirement COLA
Each year military retirement pay is adjusted to meet the increased cost of living. This Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) varies from year to year based on the previous year's (http://www.bls.gov/cpi/cpifaq.htm#Question_1 href=) Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI dipped below 4 percent in the first two quarters of FY2009 and was still in negative numbers at the end of the fiscal year. Due to the negative CPI in FY2009 there will likely be no COLA increase for military retirees in 2010.
Help the Legion Help Recovering Heroes
The American Legion is renewing its fundraising efforts for the holiday season by purchasing comfort items for troops recovering in U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units around the world through its Operation Comfort Warriors campaign. Donors can make online contributions by visiting (http://www.legion.org/ocw) www.legion.org/ocw or by sending a check to Operation Comfort Warriors, PO Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.
For more information, or to join The American Legion go to (http://www.legion.org/join) http://www.legion.org/join.
VA's New Look Website
VA launched the first and most visible phase of a big Web renovation project that will better serve our nation's veterans. The conversion began on Nov.8, and was scheduled to be completed by Veterans Day, Nov. 11. VA asks members to understand that as they implement this new design across more than 500 VA websites there may be minor errors on some of the 80,000 pages. VA will studiously examine all pages after the conversion and make corrections as needed. (http://www1.va.gov/opa/va_redesigned.asp) Check out more information on the changes.
The Key to Getting Voc-Rehab Started
Author and veteran advocate Ben Krause offers his insight into the process of applying for Voc-Rehabilitation. In part one of his new seven-part series, Ben explains that to it takes persistence, preparation and a desire to win to get through the Voc-Rehab application process.
(http://www.military.com/opinion/0,15202,205642,00.html) Read the full article at Military.com
More Veterans in Government
President Barack Obama signed an executive order Nov. 9 aimed at hiring more veterans to work in the federal government. The order calls on each federal agency to establish a veterans employment program office designed to help veterans get through the maze of paperwork as they apply for positions in the federal work force and mandates that agencies train personnel specialists on veteran employment policies. The federal hiring process will be streamlined to make it easier for people to apply for federal jobs. (http://www.military.com/news/article/wh-in-major-push-for-vets-employment.html) Read the full article at Military.com
Vets' Caregiver Bill Stalled
More than a month after the new fiscal year began, the House and Senate are working to pass a group of bills to improve veterans' benefits and health programs. However, Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.), is stalling the bill's process because he believes his colleagues are too willing to pass or spend whatever is necessary to assure their reelection. The $3.7 billion packet of health care initiatives, called an omnibus bill, includes the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009 (S. 1963). Read the full article at (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,205283,00.html) Military.com.
(http://vote.military.com/military/issues/alert/?alertid=14300291&type=CO) How do you feel about this action? Let your public officials know how you feel!
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 serve 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 U.S. Postal Service website.
Not sure what to get your servicemember for the holidays? We've gathered dozens of gift ideas for everyone on your list, no matter what your budget is! Find the perfect presents with the (http://www.military.com/Deals/Home/0,13401,,00.htm) Holiday Gift Guide.
Retirees and Vets Allowed to Salute Flag
Traditionally, members of the nation's veterans service organizations render the hand-salute during the national anthem and at events involving the national flag while wearing their organization's official head-gear. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 contained an amendment to allow un-uniformed servicemembers, military retirees, and veterans to render a hand salute during the hoisting, lowering, or passing of the U.S. flag. A later amendment further authorized hand-salutes during the national anthem by veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel. This was included in the Defense Authorization Act of 2009, which Former President Bush signed on Oct. 14, 2008.
VA Working to Improve Vet Education
The Department of Veterans Affairs is working with Florida and other states to help veterans make the transition from combat to college life. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki addressed educators and veterans during a conference at the University of South Florida on the importance of programs that ease the transition from active duty to veteran status. He emphasized the significance of ongoing outreach to ensure that veterans are fully informed of available education benefits, the newest of which is the Post 9/11 GI Bill. To further aid veteran-students, VA and USF began "VetSuccess on Campus," a pilot program designed to ease the transition process -- particularly for disabled veterans. The program places VA's Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Service and mental health counselors on campus to help Veterans succeed in college. It will eventually expand to other parts of the country.
For more information about VA's education benefits, visit (http://www.va.gov/) www.va.gov.
