Military Report - Week of July 09, 2012

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Military Report - Week of July 09, 2012

Navy Testing Synthetic Drug Compounds
The Navy's urinalysis testing program for synthetic compounds has been underway for several months, and those who choose to violate the Navy's policy against substance abuse are being held accountable.
A positive test result may initiate a criminal investigation and any resulting evidence from that investigation may be used by commanders to take disciplinary or adverse administrative actions. Health, safety, and security actions that can be taken following a positive urinalysis result for synthetic compounds include revocation of security clearance or loss of flight status. For more information on Navy policies on alcohol and drug abuse control, read (http://doni.daps.dla.mil/Directives/050 ... 350.4D.PDF) OPNAV Instruction 5350.4d.
For more Navy news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


Farmers Markets at Your Commissary
Military customers searching for Farmers Markets in July only have to venture as far as their local commissary for discounts, giveaways and other promotions. Commissaries a few outdoor activities planned this summer including the popular Farmers Markets occurring throughout the month of July. Pet promotions and festivals will continue every weekend at select locations. Throughout July, DeCA's industry partners -- vendors, suppliers and brokers -- are collaborating with commissaries to offer discounts beyond everyday savings. Check with your local commissary for details on dates and times for Farmers Markets and store promotions during July.
(http://www.military.com/discounts/) View all military discounts at the Military.com Discount Center.


Army Debuts Safety Guide
The U.S. Army's Leader's Safety Guide for 2012 is now available (https://safety.army.mil/LinkClick.aspx? ... tabid=2067) online. The material was written to assist leaders and supervisors in preventing Army civilian employee accidents and injuries. Many of the techniques contained in this guide can also be used to prevent workplace accidents and injuries among military personnel. Much of this guide is devoted to methods which can be used to influence behavior.
For more Army news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


AF Fellowship Applications Due in July
Airmen who want to attend university overseas, be a White House fellow, serve a two-year fellowship in Japan or compete for an information assurance scholarship have until July 31 to submit their application. These include applications for the (http://www.olmstedfoundation.org) Olmstead Scholar Program, the (http://www.whitehouse.gov/about/fellows) White House Fellowship, the (http://www.mansfieldfdn.org) Mansfield Fellowship Exchange, and the Information Assurance Scholarship. For full eligibility criteria and application instructions, or information about other personnel issues, visit (https://mypers.af.mil) myPers.
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


2013 Military Scholarship Application
Each year the Council of College and Military Educators offers fifteen $1000 scholarships for Servicemembers, Military Spouses, and Veterans who are working towards the completion of higher education degrees. The 2013-14 CCME Scholarship Applications must be submitted online at (http://ccmeonline.org/scholarship) ccmeonline.org/scholarship. This year's online application will be available July 16 must be completed by the October 1, 2012 scholarship application deadline.
Read the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... ccme-2013/) Military Advantage Blog for more details.
(http://www.military.com/education/money ... ships.html) Learn more about applying for all Military/Veteran Scholarships.


TRICARE Unaffected by Supreme Court
The Supreme Court's ruling on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) has no impact on TRICARE. TRICARE and TRICARE Young Adult are authorized by an independent set of statutes, and remain under sole authority of the Defense Department and the Secretary of Defense. TRICARE provides coverage for pre-existing conditions and serious illnesses; offers an array of preventive care services with no cost shares; maintains reasonable out-of-pocket costs with no or low deductibles and co-payments; and there are no annual or lifetime caps on coverage. For more information about TRICARE's covered clinical preventive services, visit the (http://www.tricare.mil/preventivecare) TRICARE Preventive Care webpage.
For more on TRICARE benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricare) Military.com TRICARE section.


AF Promotion Study Materials Online
The Airman Advancement Division's online library, e-WAPS Online Reference Library Database (e-WORLD) will have 2013 promotion cycle study reference material available by September. Past Career Development Courses (CDCs) are also available for those still studying for the 2012 promotion cycle. Airmen can access e-WORLD from a military network computer at (http://cdc.aetc.af.mil/) http://cdc.aetc.af.mil. Once downloaded to their military desktop, Airmen can e-mail the documents or burn them to a CD for use on a personal electronic device. The CDC documents are formatted for use on mobile devices. Airmen in upgrade training still need to contact their unit training manager to obtain access to their CDCs.
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


New Navy High Year Tenure Policy
The new changes to the Navy's High Year Tenure (HYT) program took effect July 1, 2012. The changes apply to all active-duty, Full-Time Support (FTS) and Selected Reserve (SELRES) Sailors. HYT sets the maximum number of years an enlisted Sailor may serve based on rank before he or she must advance, separate or if eligible, retire. The new HYT limit for E-1 and E-2 active-duty and FTS Sailors is four years, and the new HYT limit for E-3 active-duty and FTS Sailors is five years. E-1, E-2 and E-3 active-duty and FTS Sailors who are already past the modified HYT limit as of July 1 will be separated by March 31, 2013 unless they receive a HYT waiver or are advanced to a paygrade with a higher HYT limit. For more information, visit the (http://www.npc.navy.mil/CAREER/RESERVEP ... s/HYT.aspx) HYT Web Page on the NPC website or call the NPC Customer Service Center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC or 1-866-827-5672.
For more on military benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.


Pets Provide Support
Canines provide therapeutic benefits for those suffering from life's invisible scars. In the April-June issue of the Army Medical Department Journal at authors retired Col. Elspeth Ritchie and Col. Robinette Amaker write that the "acceptance of canines in Army medicine and in the civilian world has virtually exploded." They cite several examples, such as canines, used to help children cope with autism, of shelter dogs trained as services dogs and of therapy dogs that help Soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. The article is available, along with several related articles, (http://www.cs.amedd.army.mil/FileDownlo ... 3652da8622) online.
For more about pets and the military, visit the (http://www.military.com/entertainment/pet-corner/index) Military.com Pet Corner.


New Policy for Recruiting Home Schoolers
The Department of Defense (DoD) has announced that eligible students with diplomas from home schools, virtual/distance learning and adult/alternative schools, who score 50 or above on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT), will now receive Tier 1 enlistment priority. The policy change implements the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act requirement. Department benchmarks require that at least 90 percent of recruits enlisting possess a Tier 1 credential.
For more on military education programs and benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/education) Military.com Education Center.


Custom Purses Benefit Veterans
Peggy Beauvais makes purses out of old military uniforms and donate the proceeds to the help the military. She has created everything from a coin pouch to a diaper bag for men using unserviceable uniforms donated to her by co-workers and friends. Thus far, Beauvais has made more than $400 donating all proceeds to the Wounded Warrior program. Beauvais is currently a community readiness consultant at the Scott Airman Family Readiness Center has worked for the Air Force for 28 years. She makes customized items upon request. For more information, contact Peggy Beauvais at (mailto:beauvais5@msn.com) beauvais5@msn.com.
For more military family resources and support programs, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse) Military.com Spouse and Family Center.


Absentee Ballot Deadlines Approaching
The deadlines to request and absentee ballot and register are vote are quickly approaching. Deadlines vary by state. However, it is recommended that voters mail their completed Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) by Sept. 7, 2012, which is 60 days prior to the November 6 General Election. Visit the (http://www.fvap.gov/map.html) Federal Voting Assistance Program website to view state-specific requirements. Servicemembers, eligible dependents, and citizens overseas can complete the FPCA by visiting the (http://www.fvap.gov/) Federal Voting Assistance Program website. For more information, contact your installation voting assistance office or officer. To locate an office, visit the (http://www.fvap.gov/contact/ivaoffice/index.html) FVAP website. Live chat support is available online at the (http://www.fvap.gov/contact/chat.html) FVAP website.
To keep up with legislative issues that affect the military and get in touch with your local representatives, visit the (http://capwiz.com/military/home/) Military.com Legislative Center.


AAFES "Christmas in July"
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is giving shoppers the opportunity to beat the December rush while saving big on some 300 toys with its "Christmas in July" toy sale. From July 1-14, toys will be discounted from 25-50 percent off. Additionally, shoppers using their MILITARY STAR card will receive a 10 percent discount on any toy purchase of $100 or more. For more information, contact your local Exchange.
(http://www.military.com/discounts/) View all military discounts at the Military.com Discount Center.


Employer Spotlight: PMA USA
PMA USA wants your veteran talent. The road to success after serving the Military is waiting -- become an insurance agent at PMA USA. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... esrc=mr.nl) Search PMA's Talent Portal for a new career.


Get $250k Coverage: Starting at $12 a Month
Is SGLI enough for your family? Get $250k insurance coverage for as low as $12 a Month. Our partners offer low cost plans designed for your military family. (http://www.military.com/insurance/?ESRC=mr0709.nl) Find insurance coverage now.


Navy Cancels Some Early Release Boards
The Navy has announced the cancellation of the full-time support (FTS) commander selective early release from active duty (SERAD) board for fiscal year 2013 (FY-13) and the convening of the FY-13 FTS captain selective retention (SELRET) board on September 11, 2012. Reference information for Captains is available on the general information page on the (http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/b ... boardinfo/) Navy Personnel Command (NPC) website. Developing information concerning the board will be posted on the Reserve personnel management and FTS community manager webpages when available at the (http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/c ... sonnelmgmt) NPC Reserve Personnel Management webpage or the (http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/o ... eserve/fts) NPC Full-Time Support webpage.
For more Navy news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


VA Loan Program Benefits
While a conventional loan might seem like a great bargain because of an advertised lower rate, keep in mind that you often need a high credit score of 720 or above to qualify for these best rates. VA home loans are backed by the government, meaning banks can assume less risk with the loan and possibly price it lower than a rate you would qualify for from a bank. But even without a lower rate, there are a number of other compelling benefits that make the VA home loan program a better overall alternative. (http://www.military.com/money/va-loans/ ... RC=mrvr.nl) See the top four benefits of a VA loan.
(https://secure.military.com/leads/VALoa ... rvr0709.nl) Next Step: connect with lenders ready to help you use your VA loan.


New First Aid App Available
The American Red Cross recently launched its official first aid app, putting free and simple lifesaving information right in the hands of smart phone users. Available for use on both the Android and iPhone platforms, gives instant access to information on how to handle the most common first aid situations and includes videos and interactive quizzes. Downloading the app is not a substitute for training. To learn more about American Red Cross first aid or register for a course, visit the (http://www.redcross.org/takeaclass) American Red Cross Take a Class webpage.
For more military family resources and support programs, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse) Military.com Spouse and Family Center.


Rent vs. Own with a VA Loan
In Trulia's Winter 2012 Rent vs. Buy Index, it was reported that it's cheaper to own than rent in 98 of 100 largest U.S. cities. As home prices have been falling since 2006, rent has been rising. Today, it can cost 15 to 20 percent more to rent in some areas. (http://www.military.com/money/home-owne ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read the full story to learn three great features of VA loans.


Get a Financial Checklist for Deployment
If you have a family, the single most important thing to think about when it comes to deployment is ensuring that everyone is taken care of while you're away. Finances are a big part of this. According to a survey by the National Military Family Association, 28% of military families say financial issues are among their greatest challenges during deployment. Visit the Military.com Deployment Center to get a (http://www.military.com/deployment/chec ... RC=mrvr.nl) financial checklist for deployment.


New Army Cyber Patrol Website
On Cyber Patrol now has a (http://ciog6.army.mil/OnCyberPatrol.aspx) public website for monthly comic strips with articles and videos. Since 2005, the comic series has been promoting awareness of Army information assurance (IA) policies and best practices. For CAC-enabled visitors, the website also links to the (https://informationassurance.us.army.mil) One Stop Shop for Army Information Assurance. The re-designed One Stop Shop is the authoritative online resource for Army IA policy, guidance, tools, templates and collaboration. It also includes discussion forums, a calendar of events, blogs, document Bookmarking and links to other IA professional sites.
For more Army news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


TriWest Loses Bid Protest
The Government Accountability Office has denied TriWest's protest challenging the award of a new $20.4 billion regional support contract to UnitedHealth Military & Veterans Services. This means that after 16 years of dealing with TriWest Healthcare Alliance, nearly 3 million TRICARE beneficiaries living in the western states will have a new regional contractor starting in April 2013. Read the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... d-protest/) Military Advantage Blog for more details.


AAFES "Salute to Clean Sweepstakes"
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service and Unilever are sponsoring the $15,000 "Salute to Clean Sweepstakes."
Fifteen winners will each receive a $1,000 gift card. All eligible shoppers, including National Guard, Reserve, retirees, active duty personnel, and their authorized family members can fill out entry forms at their local Exchange for their chance to win. The sweepstakes ends July 19.
(http://www.military.com/discounts/) View all military discounts at the Military.com Discount Center.


Beware of 'Bath Salts'
'Bath salts' are a unique compound of drug. The chemicals it is comprised of, known as Mephedrone, Methylenedioxpyrovalerone and Methylone make them illegal in some places since cathinones can mimic the mind-altering effects of cocaine, LSD, MDMA and certain other methamphetamines. Bath salt has a myriad of street names such as Bliss, Ocean Burst, Pure Ivory, Potpourri and others. Users may experience a number of symptoms such as Insomnia, agitation and irritability. In cases which seem more and more common, a user's perception of reality is greatly altered. Brands of bath salts are considered controlled substances. The Navy and Marine Corps have a zero tolerance policy in regards to this and any drug. The Navy's Synthetic Drug Testing Operating Guide is posted on the Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Office (NADAP) website at (http://www.nadap.navy.mil) www.nadap.navy.mil.
For more military family resources and support programs, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse) Military.com Spouse and Family Center.


AF Seeking LEAP Applicants
Applications for the Language Enabled Airman Program (LEAP) will be accepted through August 31. A selection board will be held this fall. All Air Force officer candidates with a commission date scheduled for the 2012-2013 academic year are eligible to apply. However, application eligibility for active-duty personnel is limited to certain career fields based on current Air Force foreign language requirements. Application forms, instructions and complete eligibility requirements are available at the LEAP webpage at (http://www.culture.af.mil/leap) www.culture.af.mil/leap. The Deadline to submit application packets to the Air Force Culture and Language Center (AFCLC) is midnight Central Standard Time on Aug. 31.
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


AF Personnel Accountability System
Air Force officials have activated the Air Force Personnel Accountability and Assessment System (AFPAAS) to monitor the status and location of all Airmen and dependents assigned to and living in the vicinity of the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. Airmen assigned to the area or visiting the area must log in to (https://afpaas.af.mil) AFPAAS and complete the accountability process. If assigned personnel do not have access to a computer, they must contact their unit control center, commander or commander's representative. Members who are unable to contact their commander or UCC can contact the AFPC readiness cell at 800-435-9941 or DSN 665-2020. AFPAAS can also be accessed from the Air Force Portal, (http://www.af.mil/) www.af.mil and (http://www.afpc.af.mil/) www.afpc.af.mil.
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


Deal of the Week: Portraits for Military Families
Picture People is offering (http://www.savings.com/mpclick?placemen ... 7-06-11-01) 30% off Portraits to Military Families. Discount applies to color portrait sheets 10x13 or smaller. (http://www.military.com/discounts/deal- ... RC=mrvr.nl) See details and get this discount.


Political Dos and Don'ts
With elections lurking around the corner, everyone is encouraged to register to vote, research candidates and vote for the candidates. However, military professionals and civil servants cannot be seen as partisans. Department of Defense Directive 1344.10 ' (http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corr ... 34410p.pdf) Political Activities by Members of the Armed Forces on Active Duty' and Air Force Instruction 51-902 ' (http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/shared/m ... 51-902.pdf) Political Activities by Members of the U.S. Air Force' outline permitted and restricted political actions for active military members. Military members who violate these rules may face punishment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. If you are unsure whether or not a political activity is approved, reference (http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/shared/m ... 51-902.pdf) AFI 51-902 or contact your base legal office.
To keep up with legislative issues that affect the military and get in touch with your local representatives, visit the (http://capwiz.com/military/home/) Military.com Legislative Center.


Proposed Drill Pay Change Draws Fire
According to a report by Tom Philpott, defense officials can expect a fight if they follow through on the 11th Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation panel's suggestion to ask Congress to cut drill pay and annual retirement points for Reserve and National Guard members in return for allowing retired pay to start years sooner than the current age-60 threshold. The Executive Director of the Reserve Officers Association, the QDR report "paints an incomplete picture" of drill pay purposes today and that the "total force compensation" concept was offered 10 years ago was shelved when Reserve and Guard members started taking heavy casualties in the war. (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,247209,00.html) Read the full article on Military.com.