Print & Post: Week of June 21, 2010


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AF Civilian Job Boards Online
A new centralized online tool is making it easier for job seekers to find and apply for federal careers in various nonappropriated fund activities. (http://www.nafjobs.org) NAFJobs.org recently began transitioning to an Air Force-wide job board that lists vacancies for all Air Force NAF facilities. To apply for a job, applicants can go to (http://www.nafjobs.org) www.nafjobs.org and create a free profile. Applicants may also upload a resume and other supporting documentation. Applicants can submit the online application for a job to the servicing NAF human resources office. For more information on NAF employment, visit (http://www.nafjobs.org) NAFJobs.org or contact your local NAF human resources office.

VFW Fans Exceed 30,000
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) has announced that its National Headquarters' Official Facebook page has reached and exceeded the 30,000 mark. The VFW's Facebook page is a place to connect with other veterans and active duty military, to keep up with announcements of support initiatives, national calls to action, legislative issues, and all news of veteran and military interest.  To become a fan of the VFW on Facebook, visit the VFW's Facebook page at (http://www.facebook.com/VFWFans) facebook.com/VFWFans and click the "Like" button.

VA Changes Health Care Co-Pays
Veterans who generally have higher income and no service-connected disabilities -- referred to as Priority Groups 7 and 8 Veterans -- will now pay an additional $1 for each 30-day supply of outpatient medications. Taking effect July 1, the increase to $9 from $8. This change does not impact Veterans in Priority Groups 2 through 6 who will continue to pay $8 for each 30-day supply of medications for their non-service connected conditions unless otherwise exempted. Veterans who have difficulty paying copayments for outpatient medications should discuss the matter with their local VA enrollment coordinator. Veterans may also contact VA at 1-877-222 VETS (8387) or visit (http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility) VA's health eligibility website.

Are You Eligible for the New Post 9/11 GI Bill?
If you have served a total of at least 90 consecutive days on active duty in the Armed Forces since Sept. 10, 2001, you're likely eligible. However, the amount of benefits you receive under this program are determined by the actual amount of accumulated post 9/11 time in service you have.

To be eligible for the full benefit, you must have three years of active duty service after 9/11 or have been discharged due to a service-connected disability.

The Post 9/11 GI Bill will provide up to 100% of your tuition. In addition, the program provides a monthly housing stipend, and a stipend of up to $1,000 a year for books and supplies. If you attend less than full-time you will receive a portion of the payment based on the number of units of study. (http://www.military.com/education/content/gi-bill/new-post-911-gi-bill-overview.html?ESRC=vr.nl) Get more information at Military.com.

How Military.com Can Help: We can connect you with (http://edu.military.com/gibill?ESRC=vr.nl) hundreds of schools who work with your military benefits and may offer college credit for military service. Our (http://edu.military.com/gibill?ESRC=vr.nl) school search saves you time, hooks you up with schools offering classes this fall, and at the end of your search we will provide you with a GI Bill guide that explains how to use your servicemember or veteran benefits. (http://edu.military.com/gibill?ESRC=vr.nl) Search now.

If you do not qualify for the Post/911 GI Bill you probably have the Montgomery GI Bill. (http://www.military.com/education/content/gi-bill/montgomery-gi-bill.html?ESRC=vr.nl) Get a benefit overview.

Not sure which GI Bill to use? Try our (http://www.military.com/gi-bill-calculator/?ESRC=vr.nl) GI Bill Calculator to see which benefit is better for you.

PTSD Research Looks at Iraq Veterans
A new study has found that one in ten Iraq veterans  develops post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that is severe enough to cause "serious functional impairment." The study conducted by the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command examined 13,226 anonymous surveys completed by veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The study is published in the current edition of the Archives of General Psychiatry. A second study from the same journal found that problems of PTSD can last long after soldiers retire from combat duties. An abstract of the study is available on the (http://archpsyc.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/67/6/614) Archives of General Psychiatry website.

(http://www.military.com/news/stories/ptsd-news.html?ESRC=vr.nl) More information and resources on PTSD.

American Legion History Available
A new documentary detailing the 91-year history of The American Legion has just been released. "History of The American Legion: A National Legacy" was produced by Blackhorse Productions, a California-based company that specializes in military documentaries. Narrated by actor Neal McDonough ("Band of Brothers"), the movie traces the World War I roots of The American Legion and follows its history from its founding through its support for the military during the global war on terrorism. The DVDs cost $19.95 each and are available (http://emblem.legion.org/History-of-The-American-Legion-DVD/productinfo/755.906/) online or by calling (888) 453-4466.

5 Things to Do When You Get PCS Orders
You've received your Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, and after the panic subsides, you know you'll need to get yourself and your family organized for the relocation process. So what's your next move? (http://www.military.com/money/content/pcs-dity-move/pcs-orders-5-things-to-do.html?ESRC=vr.nl) Read More.

VA to Assist at Arlington
Patrick K. Hallinan, an over 31-year employee of VA's National Cemetery Administration (NCA), is being detailed to the Army to assist in the management of Arlington National Cemetery. Hallinan has a wide-breadth of experience in every facet of cemetery operations. Army Secretary John McHugh recently announced a series of management and oversight changes in the Army National Cemeteries Program, which includes both Arlington and the Soldiers' and Airmens' Home National Cemetery in Washington, DC. Meanwhile, information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from (http://www.cem.va.gov) VA Burial and Memorial Benefits website or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at 800-827-1000.  To make burial arrangements at the time of need at any VA national cemetery, call the national cemetery scheduling office at 800-535-1117.

Outlook for Computer and Information Systems Management
According to the Department of Labor, employment increases and the high demand for technical workers, prospects are excellent for those with computer systems qualifications. Employment of computer and information systems (CIS) managers is expected to grow 16 percent over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations. In addition, new applications of technology in the workplace will continue to drive demand for workers, fueling the need for more managers. (http://www.military.com/education/content/getting-your-degree/outlook-for-computer-and-information-systems-management.html) Read More.

Struggling to Turn Your Military Skills into a Civilian Resume?
Writing a resume is never an easy task, especially when you are transitioning from the military to civilian life and jobs. You know your military skill set best and how you can add value to any organization. But how do you turn that military jargon into real world job descriptions? Military.com's newest tool will help translate your skills into a civilian resume. (http://www.military.com/skills-translator/?ESRC=vr.nl) Get Details.

New Law in Illinois
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has signed into law the state's Veterans and Servicemembers Court Treatment Act. This bill allows Illinois courts to establish special judicial courts for veterans who have mental health or substance abuse issues. For more information on veterans' benefits in Illinois, visit the (http://www.veterans.illinois.gov) Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs website.

American Legion Appeals to President
A letter signed by The American Legion is asking President Barack Obama to restore the Mojave Desert Veterans Memorial cross. This spring, the U.S. Supreme Court overruled lower federal courts' decisions to tear down the memorial because of a misplaced belief that it was a religious icon on federal land. Soon after the ruling, the memorial was ripped down and carried away by vandals. The letter goes on to state that the National Park Service has not restored the memorial because it is complying with a lower court order, which in their interpretation, the Supreme Court decision did not fully address. Anyone who wants to sign their name onto to the letter can do so at (http://www.putthecrossback.com) http://www.putthecrossback.com.

Your Military Spouse Could Win $5,000
The  (http://www.military.com) Military.com and (http://www.cinchouse.com) CinCHouse.com 2010 Spouse of the Year Award, sponsored by ASMBA and TriWest HealthCare Alliance, will be giving away $5,000 to a spouse who has gone above and beyond to serve her/his family, country and the military community. Nominations are open through June 30. (http://www.cinchouse.com/Articles/SpouseoftheYear/tabid/8377/Default.aspx?ESRC=vr.nl) Get contest details and enter today.

Looking for that Perfect Gift and Running Out of Time?
Military.com has assembled some of the best retailers around -- and not just for military themed gifts! Find everything from customized clothing to flowers and mobile phone service.  You can even find something for the graduate in your life.  (http://www.military.com/Deals/Home/0,13401,,00.htm?ESRC=vr.nl) Check out our virtual mall today.

Featured Job: Time to Make a Career Change?
The Military.com community offers the largest veteran job board in the world. Opportunities posted here are from military-friendly employers like Raytheon, Waste Management, Verizon and others. Employers who understand your military background and how valuable you can be to their organization. (http://www.military.com/Careers/Home?ESRC=vr.nl) Find that new job you've been looking for now.

Jaime McIntyre Compares the War in Afghanistan to the War in the Gulf...of Mexico
President Obama announced a winning strategy last week in his televised address, in fact the only strategy can ensure success. He was talking about battling the oil spill, but the same strategy is the only way to guarantee victory in real war as well. The problem is this particular strategy is often THE most expensive option, and therefore the price can sometimes be too high. (http://www.lineofdeparture.com/2010/06/16/afghanistan-sinking/#ixzz0rCk43k30?ESRC=vr.nl) Read More.

Servicemembers Save with ASMBA
The Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association (ASMBA), established in 1963, provides comprehensive, affordable life insurance coverage to military personnel and their families. For example, you can get an extra $100,000 worth of coverage for only $19 a month. (http://www.military.com/insurance/asmba/?ESRC=vr.nl) Get Details.

Wheelchair Games Coming
More than 500 wheelchair athletes who are all military veterans are headed to Denver to begin competition at the 30th National Veterans Wheelchair Games. The event, presented each year by officials of the Department of Veterans Affairs and Paralyzed Veterans of America, runs July 4 through July 9. The games provide an annual multi-event sports rehabilitation program that is open to veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to spinal cord injuries, amputations or certain neurological problems and who receive care at any VA medical facility. For more information about the National Veterans Wheelchair Games or to volunteer during the week, visit (http://www1.va.gov/opa/speceven/wcg/index.asp) VA's National Veterans Wheelchair Games website.