Military Report - Week of July 28, 2014

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Military Report - Week of July 28, 2014

Organization Preserves Marine History
Parris Island's Living History Detachment seeks to preserve military history, Parris Island history and teach people about the Marine Corps. Re-enactors, many of whom are former Marines themselves, demonstrate weapons and tactics similar to those used on the island campaigns. The detachment attempts to add a new display or showing each year and is interested in adding female Marines if volunteers can be found. Membership to the Detachment is not limited to Marines "out of uniform," and is made up of individuals with diverse military experience. For more information, visit the (http://parrisislandhistoricalsociety.co ... ng-history) Parris Island Historical and Museum website.


Last of the Code Talkers Dies
The American Legion interviewed Chester Nez, last of the original 29 Navajo Code Talkers, ten days before he died. The interview with Chester Nez is available on the (http://www.legion.org/magazine/223487/last-code-talkers) American Legion website. The incredibly precise Navajo language was an ideal way to mask a code because only about thirty non-Navajos understood the language at all, and it did not appear in books. For more information on the Navajo Code Talkers, including instructional materials, visit the Navajo Code Talkers website at (http://navajocodetalkers.org/) http://navajocodetalkers.org, the (http://digital.library.okstate.edu/ency ... CO013.html) Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture website, the (http://www.history.navy.mil/faqs/faq61-2.htm) Naval History and Heritage Command website, the (http://nmai.si.edu/education/codetalkers/) National Museum of the American Indian website, and the (https://www.facebook.com/Our.Navajo.Code.Talkers) Navajo Code Talkers Facebook page.


AF Civilian Early Retirements
The Air Force announced a fourth round of civilian workforce shaping measures. Voluntary early retirement authority (VERA) and voluntary separation incentive pay (VSIP) will be used to realign and rebalance the civilian force during the round IV program. Round IV is largely focused on Headquarters Air Force-assigned civilian employees, primarily located in the national capital region. Civilian employees received VERA/VSIP interest surveys from their local civilian personnel sections on or about July 21 and responses are due by Aug. 1. Applicants approved for this round of VERA/VSIP must separate no later than Sep. 30. For additional information about voluntary separation programs, visit the Air Force Personnel Service website at (https://gum-crm.csd.disa.mil) https://gum-crm.csd.disa.mil.


439 Airmen Promoted
439 Airmen were recently selected for promotion via the supplemental promotion process. The list is available on the Air Force Portal at (https://www.my.af.mil/) https://www.my.af.mil -- select the promotion news link. Or visit myPers at (https://mypers.af.mil/) https://mypers.af.mil, enter "Active Duty: Enlisted Promotions Home Page" in the search window, select the page and scroll down to the supplemental promotion section. Airmen on the supplemental list tested outside of their required cycle because of an extended TDY or deployment in support of a contingency. Promotion selections are tentative until the data verification process is complete. For more information about promotions and other personnel issues, visit myPers at (https://mypers.af.mil/) https://mypers.af.mil.


Navy Customer Service Center
Navy Personnel Command's (NPC) Customer Service Center (CSC) is the Navy's human resource point of contact. The customer service agents field a large number of questions from a wide variety of constituents concerned about programs, current policies, pay and detailing. Sailors' social security numbers may be required when calling to access Privacy Act records. The CSC can also be contacted by e-mail at (mailto:UASKNPC@navy.mil) UASKNPC@navy.mil for general inquiry questions or by telephone at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC (1-866-827-5672). Overseas Sailors may wish to email (mailto:UASKNPC@navy.mil) UASKNPC@navy.mil or contact via DSN (882-5672). Sailors may also post questions or concerns on the (https://www.facebook.com/NavyPersonnelCommand) Navy Detailers Facebook page.


AAFES Hello Kitty Watch Giveaway
Military shoppers can keep time with Hello Kitty thanks to the latest sweepstakes from the Army & Air Force Exchange Service. Twenty-five winners will take home a Hello Kitty watch, valued at $85. From July 25 to Aug. 22, Exchange shoppers can enter to win by Emailing (mailto:patriotfamily@aafes.com) patriotfamily@aafes.com and putting "Hello Kitty Sweepstakes" in the subject line. The body of the email must include the contestant's name, address, nearest Exchange, daytime phone number and rank or occupation of sponsor. Exchange shoppers can visit (http://www.shopmyexchange.com/patriotfamily) www.shopmyexchange.com/patriotfamily for complete contest rules. Winners will be selected on or about Sept. 1.


Military Consumers Protection Resources
Servicemembers and their families face unique financial challenges. The Consumer Financial protection Bureau (CFPB) website offers tools and resources that can help safeguard against consumer fraud, illegal business practices and bad financial deals. For more information, visit the (http://www.consumerfinance.gov/servicemembers/) Consumer Financial Protection Bureau website.


Sponsored Discount: Nissan's got your back with exclusive savings
You watch our back. Now we've got yours. Nissan is proud to provide eligible military personnel with the best savings program in the country. It's the same pricing we give our family & friends. (http://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/281443259;107545909;n) Read More.


Save Up to 66% in TRICARE Costs
The AMRA TRICARE Supplement saves money and time by covering doctor co-pays, (http://offers.military.com/i/tricare/in ... rvr0728.nl) prescriptions and more.


AF to Return to Old E-Mail System
Members of 24th Air Force are refurbishing an old email tool to help Air Force users reduce breaches of personally identifiable information (PII). The Digital Signature Enforcement Tool (DSET), which currently prompts users to provide a digital signature when an email contains an active hyperlink or attachment, is being reconfigured to scan emails and attachments for PII. The tool's new usage is still in its initial stage, focusing on social security numbers. Developers hope that DSET will ultimately be able to scan for a variety of PII to prevent future breaches. In preparation for the release of DSET, (https://afpki.lackland.af.mil/assets/fi ... _v0001.PDF) you can access training for the new tool. Additional training on how to encrypt Microsoft Office documents can be (http://www.24af.af.mil/shared/media/doc ... 01-064.pdf) accessed online. Users have multiple tools at their disposal to protect PII if encrypting e-mail is not feasible, but if electronic transmission of sensitive PII is operationally required, users can leverage approved Department of Defense file exchange services at: (https://safe.amrdec.army.mil/safe/) https://safe.amrdec.army.mil/safe.


AF Policy on Social Media and Politics
U.S. Air Force is reminding Airmen that, while on active duty -- and even for reservists who may be perceived as active military representatives -- participating in politics on social media is exactly the same as it is in-person: strictly prohibited. For active duty Airmen, this includes any Facebook share, Twitter retweet or other repost of material from a political party, partisan candidate or campaign profile to friends, or even to post on those sites in a way that would constitute political activity. Nor can Airmen suggest their friends "like" those sites. Contact your unit judge advocate or their Federal Voting Officer to ensure any participation is legal. For information on voting, visit the Federal Voting Assistance Program website at (http://www.fvap.gov/) http://www.fvap.gov.


$0 Down and No PMI with Your VA Loan
Now is the time to use your VA Loan. You don't have to pay PMI or have a large down payment. Plus you can get financing up to $417,000. (https://secure.military.com/leads/VALoa ... rvr0728.nl) Use your VA Loan Benefit today.
(http://www.military.com/money/va-loans?ESRC=mrvr0728.nl) Find out more about the VA Loan Benefit.


Legion Opens Crisis Center for Baltimore
The American Legion is sending a team of its experts to Baltimore in response to a recent Department of Veterans Affairs internal investigation that showed long wait times for veterans seeking treatment at the local VA medical center. A town hall meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. On July 28 at American Legion Post 109 on 1610 Sulphur Spring Rd. In Arbutus, Md. The American Legion will also set up a Veterans Crisis Command Center at Post 109 from July 29-Aug. 1. Operating hours for the crisis center at Post 109 are noon to 8 p.m. On July 29, 8 a.m. To 4 p.m. On the 30th, 8 a.m. To 8 p.m. On the 31st, and 8 a.m. To noon on Aug. 1. Members of the Legion's national staff and others will be on hand to assist veterans and their families.


Consumer Protection for Servicemembers
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and 35 other federal, state government, and nonprofit organizations recently joined together to mark Military Consumer Protection Day (MCPD). Through various channels, MCPD highlighted free national and local consumer protection resources for servicemembers, military families, retirees and veterans. Many of these resources are available on the Military Consumer website at (http://www.military.ncpw.gov/) www.military.ncpw.gov. Holly Petraeus, assistant director for Servicemember Affairs with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, published a blog post highlighting the importance of MCPD. The blog post is available on the (https://www.military.ncpw.gov/blog/make-july-16-matter) Military Consumer website.


TRICARE Hosts Webinar
TRICARE and Military OneSource are co-hosting a webinar to educate TRICARE beneficiaries about the TRICARE claims and appeals process. The webinar will take place on Thursday, July 31, 2014 at 1:00PM EST. To sign up, (https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/811213674) visit the GoToMeeting.com website. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and is limited due to system capacity. Participants must avoid sharing personal health information when asking a question. Appeals occur when a provider or beneficiary requests reconsideration of coverage, authorization or claims decision. For more information about TRICARE claims or appeals, visit the TRICARE Filing Claims webpage at (http://www.tricare.mil/claims) http://www.tricare.mil/claims.


TRICARE Increases Access to Counselors
TRICARE beneficiaries can now choose between two qualified mental health counselor types: independently practicing TRICARE Certified Mental Health Counselors (TCMHC) and Supervised Mental Health Counselors (SMHC). TCMHCs can independently treat TRICARE beneficiaries but SMHCs will continue to practice under the referral and supervision of TRICARE-authorized physicians. Beneficiaries who are who are currently receiving treatment from a mental health counselor can continue their care with their existing provider whether that is an SMHC or a TCMHC. For more information about TRICARE mental health coverage, visit the TRICARE Mental Health Care webpage at (http://www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth) www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth.


Navy Launches Social Media Page
Navy Medicine Education and Training Command (NMETC) has announced the development of a globally accessible social media page to help hospital corpsmen studying for upcoming advancement exams. The NMETC Enlisted Advancement Program Facebook page will post daily advancement tools, resources, study tips and exam preparation questions for hospital corpsmen. One of the most important aspects of the page is the daily question that will be posted. For more information, follow the Navy Medicine Education and Training Command Enlisted Advancement Program Facebook page is at (http://www.facebook.com/NMETCEAP) www.facebook.com/NMETCEAP.


Retirement Planning for All Ages
With the average life expectancy 30 years longer today than it was 100 years ago, saving adequate funds to live comfortably through a long retirement has become more challenging. (http://www.military.com/money/retirement?ESRC=mr0728.nl) Read more about retirement planning.


Special Raceway Deal at Pocono
Pocono Raceway proudly salutes our US Military Servicemen and Women. In recognition of your service to our country, a special ticket pricing is being extended as a benefit to Service members and their families. The special event is scheduled for GOBowling.Com 400 on August 1 -3, 2014. To access this benefit, login thorugh the (http://www.poconoraceway.com/military.html) Pocono Raceway website by clicking on the Troop ID Icon.


Proposal to Reorganize TRICARE Fails
The Senate Appropriations Committee has approved a fiscal 2015 defense money bill that fully supports the Senate Armed Services Committee's rejection of the proposal to (http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... -overhaul/) consolidate TRICARE plans and raise fees. They also reject a $200 million hit to the annual subsidy for commissaries which could force some commissaries to cut hours of operation and a few even to close. However, the Senate appropriators have shaped a funding bill that supports efforts to cap military pay, BAH, and increase TRICARE medication co-pays.
(http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... ain-steam/) Read Tom Philpott's Military Update for the complete story.


AF Offers Hyper-Reality Medical Training
The Air Force Medical Modeling and Simulation Training (AFMMAST) is improving medical training is by adding hyper-reality and high fidelity through the use of the Tactical Combat Casualty Care Cut Suit. The AFMMAST website ( (http://www.afmmast.mil/) http://www.afmmast.mil) describes the cut suit as a learning tool that provides the most realistic way to simulate the look, feel and smell effects of severe traumatic situations on a live human. The cut suit gives medical providers a training platform to focus on the three primary causes of death on the battlefield: uncontrollable hemorrhaging, airway compromise, and tension pneumothorax (an abnormal collection of air or gas in the space that separates the lung from the chest wall). For more information, visit the AFMMAST website at (http://www.afmmast.mil/) http://www.afmmast.mil.


Back-to-School Savings at AAFES
The Army and Air Force Exchange Service is offering military shoppers competitive prices and tax savings on supplies students need to head back to class. As several states roll out "sales tax holidays" on school supplies, the Exchange will match local sales tax discounts to offer an additional percentage off (equivalent to the local sales tax rate) select back-to-school items, effectively doubling (https://www.flickr.com/photos/aafespa/1 ... 6/sizes/l/) the Exchange's everyday tax-free benefit. Shoppers can check with their state's tax website for sales tax holiday dates and included items. On Aug. 9, select Exchange locations will also host a special back-to-school event in their malls. For more information, contact your local Exchange.


Army Expands Assault Prevention Program
The Army is 'breaking new ground' in efforts to combat sexual harassment and sexual assault in the ranks. The efforts include the establishment of a SHARP (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention) Academy, which offers several weeks of instruction to sexual assault response coordinators (SARCs), victim advocates (VAs) and trainers. The academy, which was launched with a pilot course in January, delivers a seven-week course for SARCs/VAs, and a 12-week course for trainers. The Army is in the process of developing a 10-week program manager course for brigade level and above. Graduates will go back to their command to instruct others and advise their commander. Collateral personnel, battalion level and below, will continue to receive the current 80 hours of training. For more information, visit the U.S. Army SHARP website at (http://www.sexualassault.army.mil/index.cfm) http://www.sexualassault.army.mil/index.cfm.


Navy PCS Survey
The Navy's Household Goods (HHG) directorate at NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS) has launched an all-Navy customer survey in a continuing campaign to gauge the moving experience and provide a better quality household goods move in the future. All servicemembers and their spouses who moved recently, or within the last year, are encouraged to log on and take the short survey, which can be completed in less than 20 minutes. The survey is located at: (http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/dps_pcs_move) www.surveymonkey.com/s/dps_pcs_move.


Hertz Committed to Hiring Veterans
Start your civilian career with Hertz. Hertz shares the military's values of discipline, hard work, and dedication. Hertz can provide endless opportunity and a career path that lets you choose where you want to be. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... =mr0728.nl) Read More.


AF Language School Openings
The Language Enabled Airman Program (LEAP) is accepting active-duty officer and enlisted applications July 15 - Aug. 22. Those intending to submit applications must register their intent to apply by Aug. 8. Officer candidate students in their senior years may also apply. LEAP is designed for those active-duty Airmen who already have some existing language capability. Participants in LEAP are required to complete online training, as well as to attend periodic temporary duty assignments called Language Intensive Training Events to enhance their language skills. Detailed eligibility requirements and application instructions are available on the Air Force Culture and Language Center's website at (http://culture.af.mil/leap/index.aspx) http://culture.af.mil/leap/index.aspx. Follow the (https://www.facebook.com/AirForceCultur ... uageCenter) Air Force Culture and Language Center on Facebook.


AF Promotions: 460 New Captains
The 2014A Line of the Air Force, Chaplain Corps, Judge Advocate General Corps, Nurse Corps, Medical Services Corps and Biomedical Sciences Corps Quarterly Captain Selection Process selected 460 first lieutenants for promotion to captain. The selection lists are available on myPers at (https://mypers.af.mil) https://mypers.af.mil -- select the active duty officer component from the top drop down menu, select promotion under "Learn More About" and scroll down to the promotion select list section. Lists will also be available on the Air Force Portal at (https://my.af.mil/) https://my.af.mil. For more information about other personnel issues, visit the myPers website at (https://mypers.af.mil) https://mypers.af.mil.


$50,000 Financial Protection Only $2.50 a Month
Protection for less. Get $50,000 Coverage from only $72.50 a month. (http://www.military.com/insurance/?lpid ... C=mrvr0728.) Could your family afford their lifestyle if something happened to you?


Army Tracking New Disease
The U.S. Army Public Health Command is responding rapidly to an emerging viral infection that is threatening the United States. The emergence of the chikungunya virus in the Caribbean makes it a disease of concern to the U.S. Mainland. Chikungunya is spread by two species of mosquitoes that are commonly found in the U.S. People should wear insect repellant with DEET and light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Other preventive measures include stopping mosquitoes from reproducing. If you are in one of the places where chikungunya is found, treat your clothing with permethrin using an aerosol can or IDA kit (Individual Dynamic Absorption Kit for uniforms). The IDA kit is only authorized for use on military uniforms not civilian clothing. For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website at (http://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/) www.cdc.gov/chikungunya, the (http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs327/en/) World Health Organization (WHO) website and the (http://www.paho.org/hq/index.php?option ... emid=40931) Pan American Health Organization website.


Angry About Benefit Cuts? Tell Your Reps!
Congress must make some big decisions in the second half of this year. The full House and the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) completed their respective drafts of the FY 2015 defense authorization bill. The SASC-passed version of the defense bill would make a number of cuts to pay and benefits proposed by the administration. The House-passed version of the defense bill rejects all of these cuts. These issues will be debated this fall. It's imperative legislators know how military families feel about them. August is when most elected officials return to their home offices. If you would like to visit your legislators' local offices (or just learn more about the issues) Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) makes it easy by sharing some important information with you. Visit MOAA's August recess page for valuable fact sheets, statistical information about your state and talking points: (http://www.moaa.org/MRvylia/) http://www.moaa.org/MRvylia.


NCOA Career Expo Update
Each year the Non Commissioned Officers Association hosts a series of Career Expos nationwide, which serve all five branches and all ranks of the U.S. Military, including veterans. Upcoming events include (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-ncoa- ... 9462347135) Newport News, VA on July 29, (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-ncoa- ... 9462607915) Norfolk, VA on July 31, (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-ncoa- ... 9462682137) San Francisco, CA on August 5, and (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-ncoa- ... 9462780431) NAS Lemoore CA on August 7. Visit the (http://ncoacareerexpos.org/index.php/career-expos/) NCOA Career Expo website to receive a complete list of participating employers, view the schedule of upcoming events, and register for (http://ncoacareerexpos.org/index.php/career-expos/) NCOA Career Expos.Military Report - Week of July 28, 2014

Organization Preserves Marine History
Parris Island's Living History Detachment seeks to preserve military history, Parris Island history and teach people about the Marine Corps. Re-enactors, many of whom are former Marines themselves, demonstrate weapons and tactics similar to those used on the island campaigns. The detachment attempts to add a new display or showing each year and is interested in adding female Marines if volunteers can be found. Membership to the Detachment is not limited to Marines "out of uniform," and is made up of individuals with diverse military experience. For more information, visit the (http://parrisislandhistoricalsociety.co ... ng-history) Parris Island Historical and Museum website.


Last of the Code Talkers Dies
The American Legion interviewed Chester Nez, last of the original 29 Navajo Code Talkers, ten days before he died. The interview with Chester Nez is available on the (http://www.legion.org/magazine/223487/last-code-talkers) American Legion website. The incredibly precise Navajo language was an ideal way to mask a code because only about thirty non-Navajos understood the language at all, and it did not appear in books. For more information on the Navajo Code Talkers, including instructional materials, visit the Navajo Code Talkers website at (http://navajocodetalkers.org/) http://navajocodetalkers.org, the (http://digital.library.okstate.edu/ency ... CO013.html) Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture website, the (http://www.history.navy.mil/faqs/faq61-2.htm) Naval History and Heritage Command website, the (http://nmai.si.edu/education/codetalkers/) National Museum of the American Indian website, and the (https://www.facebook.com/Our.Navajo.Code.Talkers) Navajo Code Talkers Facebook page.


AF Civilian Early Retirements
The Air Force announced a fourth round of civilian workforce shaping measures. Voluntary early retirement authority (VERA) and voluntary separation incentive pay (VSIP) will be used to realign and rebalance the civilian force during the round IV program. Round IV is largely focused on Headquarters Air Force-assigned civilian employees, primarily located in the national capital region. Civilian employees received VERA/VSIP interest surveys from their local civilian personnel sections on or about July 21 and responses are due by Aug. 1. Applicants approved for this round of VERA/VSIP must separate no later than Sep. 30. For additional information about voluntary separation programs, visit the Air Force Personnel Service website at (https://gum-crm.csd.disa.mil) https://gum-crm.csd.disa.mil.


439 Airmen Promoted
439 Airmen were recently selected for promotion via the supplemental promotion process. The list is available on the Air Force Portal at (https://www.my.af.mil/) https://www.my.af.mil -- select the promotion news link. Or visit myPers at (https://mypers.af.mil/) https://mypers.af.mil, enter "Active Duty: Enlisted Promotions Home Page" in the search window, select the page and scroll down to the supplemental promotion section. Airmen on the supplemental list tested outside of their required cycle because of an extended TDY or deployment in support of a contingency. Promotion selections are tentative until the data verification process is complete. For more information about promotions and other personnel issues, visit myPers at (https://mypers.af.mil/) https://mypers.af.mil.


Navy Customer Service Center
Navy Personnel Command's (NPC) Customer Service Center (CSC) is the Navy's human resource point of contact. The customer service agents field a large number of questions from a wide variety of constituents concerned about programs, current policies, pay and detailing. Sailors' social security numbers may be required when calling to access Privacy Act records. The CSC can also be contacted by e-mail at (mailto:UASKNPC@navy.mil) UASKNPC@navy.mil for general inquiry questions or by telephone at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC (1-866-827-5672). Overseas Sailors may wish to email (mailto:UASKNPC@navy.mil) UASKNPC@navy.mil or contact via DSN (882-5672). Sailors may also post questions or concerns on the (https://www.facebook.com/NavyPersonnelCommand) Navy Detailers Facebook page.


AAFES Hello Kitty Watch Giveaway
Military shoppers can keep time with Hello Kitty thanks to the latest sweepstakes from the Army & Air Force Exchange Service. Twenty-five winners will take home a Hello Kitty watch, valued at $85. From July 25 to Aug. 22, Exchange shoppers can enter to win by Emailing (mailto:patriotfamily@aafes.com) patriotfamily@aafes.com and putting "Hello Kitty Sweepstakes" in the subject line. The body of the email must include the contestant's name, address, nearest Exchange, daytime phone number and rank or occupation of sponsor. Exchange shoppers can visit (http://www.shopmyexchange.com/patriotfamily) www.shopmyexchange.com/patriotfamily for complete contest rules. Winners will be selected on or about Sept. 1.


Military Consumers Protection Resources
Servicemembers and their families face unique financial challenges. The Consumer Financial protection Bureau (CFPB) website offers tools and resources that can help safeguard against consumer fraud, illegal business practices and bad financial deals. For more information, visit the (http://www.consumerfinance.gov/servicemembers/) Consumer Financial Protection Bureau website.


Sponsored Discount: Nissan's got your back with exclusive savings
You watch our back. Now we've got yours. Nissan is proud to provide eligible military personnel with the best savings program in the country. It's the same pricing we give our family & friends. (http://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/281443259;107545909;n) Read More.


Save Up to 66% in TRICARE Costs
The AMRA TRICARE Supplement saves money and time by covering doctor co-pays, (http://offers.military.com/i/tricare/in ... rvr0728.nl) prescriptions and more.


AF to Return to Old E-Mail System
Members of 24th Air Force are refurbishing an old email tool to help Air Force users reduce breaches of personally identifiable information (PII). The Digital Signature Enforcement Tool (DSET), which currently prompts users to provide a digital signature when an email contains an active hyperlink or attachment, is being reconfigured to scan emails and attachments for PII. The tool's new usage is still in its initial stage, focusing on social security numbers. Developers hope that DSET will ultimately be able to scan for a variety of PII to prevent future breaches. In preparation for the release of DSET, (https://afpki.lackland.af.mil/assets/fi ... _v0001.PDF) you can access training for the new tool. Additional training on how to encrypt Microsoft Office documents can be (http://www.24af.af.mil/shared/media/doc ... 01-064.pdf) accessed online. Users have multiple tools at their disposal to protect PII if encrypting e-mail is not feasible, but if electronic transmission of sensitive PII is operationally required, users can leverage approved Department of Defense file exchange services at: (https://safe.amrdec.army.mil/safe/) https://safe.amrdec.army.mil/safe.


AF Policy on Social Media and Politics
U.S. Air Force is reminding Airmen that, while on active duty -- and even for reservists who may be perceived as active military representatives -- participating in politics on social media is exactly the same as it is in-person: strictly prohibited. For active duty Airmen, this includes any Facebook share, Twitter retweet or other repost of material from a political party, partisan candidate or campaign profile to friends, or even to post on those sites in a way that would constitute political activity. Nor can Airmen suggest their friends "like" those sites. Contact your unit judge advocate or their Federal Voting Officer to ensure any participation is legal. For information on voting, visit the Federal Voting Assistance Program website at (http://www.fvap.gov/) http://www.fvap.gov.


$0 Down and No PMI with Your VA Loan
Now is the time to use your VA Loan. You don't have to pay PMI or have a large down payment. Plus you can get financing up to $417,000. (https://secure.military.com/leads/VALoa ... rvr0728.nl) Use your VA Loan Benefit today.
(http://www.military.com/money/va-loans?ESRC=mrvr0728.nl) Find out more about the VA Loan Benefit.


Legion Opens Crisis Center for Baltimore
The American Legion is sending a team of its experts to Baltimore in response to a recent Department of Veterans Affairs internal investigation that showed long wait times for veterans seeking treatment at the local VA medical center. A town hall meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. On July 28 at American Legion Post 109 on 1610 Sulphur Spring Rd. In Arbutus, Md. The American Legion will also set up a Veterans Crisis Command Center at Post 109 from July 29-Aug. 1. Operating hours for the crisis center at Post 109 are noon to 8 p.m. On July 29, 8 a.m. To 4 p.m. On the 30th, 8 a.m. To 8 p.m. On the 31st, and 8 a.m. To noon on Aug. 1. Members of the Legion's national staff and others will be on hand to assist veterans and their families.


Consumer Protection for Servicemembers
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and 35 other federal, state government, and nonprofit organizations recently joined together to mark Military Consumer Protection Day (MCPD). Through various channels, MCPD highlighted free national and local consumer protection resources for servicemembers, military families, retirees and veterans. Many of these resources are available on the Military Consumer website at (http://www.military.ncpw.gov/) www.military.ncpw.gov. Holly Petraeus, assistant director for Servicemember Affairs with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, published a blog post highlighting the importance of MCPD. The blog post is available on the (https://www.military.ncpw.gov/blog/make-july-16-matter) Military Consumer website.


TRICARE Hosts Webinar
TRICARE and Military OneSource are co-hosting a webinar to educate TRICARE beneficiaries about the TRICARE claims and appeals process. The webinar will take place on Thursday, July 31, 2014 at 1:00PM EST. To sign up, (https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/811213674) visit the GoToMeeting.com website. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and is limited due to system capacity. Participants must avoid sharing personal health information when asking a question. Appeals occur when a provider or beneficiary requests reconsideration of coverage, authorization or claims decision. For more information about TRICARE claims or appeals, visit the TRICARE Filing Claims webpage at (http://www.tricare.mil/claims) http://www.tricare.mil/claims.


TRICARE Increases Access to Counselors
TRICARE beneficiaries can now choose between two qualified mental health counselor types: independently practicing TRICARE Certified Mental Health Counselors (TCMHC) and Supervised Mental Health Counselors (SMHC). TCMHCs can independently treat TRICARE beneficiaries but SMHCs will continue to practice under the referral and supervision of TRICARE-authorized physicians. Beneficiaries who are who are currently receiving treatment from a mental health counselor can continue their care with their existing provider whether that is an SMHC or a TCMHC. For more information about TRICARE mental health coverage, visit the TRICARE Mental Health Care webpage at (http://www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth) www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth.


Navy Launches Social Media Page
Navy Medicine Education and Training Command (NMETC) has announced the development of a globally accessible social media page to help hospital corpsmen studying for upcoming advancement exams. The NMETC Enlisted Advancement Program Facebook page will post daily advancement tools, resources, study tips and exam preparation questions for hospital corpsmen. One of the most important aspects of the page is the daily question that will be posted. For more information, follow the Navy Medicine Education and Training Command Enlisted Advancement Program Facebook page is at (http://www.facebook.com/NMETCEAP) www.facebook.com/NMETCEAP.


Retirement Planning for All Ages
With the average life expectancy 30 years longer today than it was 100 years ago, saving adequate funds to live comfortably through a long retirement has become more challenging. (http://www.military.com/money/retirement?ESRC=mr0728.nl) Read more about retirement planning.


Special Raceway Deal at Pocono
Pocono Raceway proudly salutes our US Military Servicemen and Women. In recognition of your service to our country, a special ticket pricing is being extended as a benefit to Service members and their families. The special event is scheduled for GOBowling.Com 400 on August 1 -3, 2014. To access this benefit, login thorugh the (http://www.poconoraceway.com/military.html) Pocono Raceway website by clicking on the Troop ID Icon.


Proposal to Reorganize TRICARE Fails
The Senate Appropriations Committee has approved a fiscal 2015 defense money bill that fully supports the Senate Armed Services Committee's rejection of the proposal to (http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... -overhaul/) consolidate TRICARE plans and raise fees. They also reject a $200 million hit to the annual subsidy for commissaries which could force some commissaries to cut hours of operation and a few even to close. However, the Senate appropriators have shaped a funding bill that supports efforts to cap military pay, BAH, and increase TRICARE medication co-pays.
(http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... ain-steam/) Read Tom Philpott's Military Update for the complete story.


AF Offers Hyper-Reality Medical Training
The Air Force Medical Modeling and Simulation Training (AFMMAST) is improving medical training is by adding hyper-reality and high fidelity through the use of the Tactical Combat Casualty Care Cut Suit. The AFMMAST website ( (http://www.afmmast.mil/) http://www.afmmast.mil) describes the cut suit as a learning tool that provides the most realistic way to simulate the look, feel and smell effects of severe traumatic situations on a live human. The cut suit gives medical providers a training platform to focus on the three primary causes of death on the battlefield: uncontrollable hemorrhaging, airway compromise, and tension pneumothorax (an abnormal collection of air or gas in the space that separates the lung from the chest wall). For more information, visit the AFMMAST website at (http://www.afmmast.mil/) http://www.afmmast.mil.


Back-to-School Savings at AAFES
The Army and Air Force Exchange Service is offering military shoppers competitive prices and tax savings on supplies students need to head back to class. As several states roll out "sales tax holidays" on school supplies, the Exchange will match local sales tax discounts to offer an additional percentage off (equivalent to the local sales tax rate) select back-to-school items, effectively doubling (https://www.flickr.com/photos/aafespa/1 ... 6/sizes/l/) the Exchange's everyday tax-free benefit. Shoppers can check with their state's tax website for sales tax holiday dates and included items. On Aug. 9, select Exchange locations will also host a special back-to-school event in their malls. For more information, contact your local Exchange.


Army Expands Assault Prevention Program
The Army is 'breaking new ground' in efforts to combat sexual harassment and sexual assault in the ranks. The efforts include the establishment of a SHARP (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention) Academy, which offers several weeks of instruction to sexual assault response coordinators (SARCs), victim advocates (VAs) and trainers. The academy, which was launched with a pilot course in January, delivers a seven-week course for SARCs/VAs, and a 12-week course for trainers. The Army is in the process of developing a 10-week program manager course for brigade level and above. Graduates will go back to their command to instruct others and advise their commander. Collateral personnel, battalion level and below, will continue to receive the current 80 hours of training. For more information, visit the U.S. Army SHARP website at (http://www.sexualassault.army.mil/index.cfm) http://www.sexualassault.army.mil/index.cfm.


Navy PCS Survey
The Navy's Household Goods (HHG) directorate at NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS) has launched an all-Navy customer survey in a continuing campaign to gauge the moving experience and provide a better quality household goods move in the future. All servicemembers and their spouses who moved recently, or within the last year, are encouraged to log on and take the short survey, which can be completed in less than 20 minutes. The survey is located at: (http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/dps_pcs_move) www.surveymonkey.com/s/dps_pcs_move.


Hertz Committed to Hiring Veterans
Start your civilian career with Hertz. Hertz shares the military's values of discipline, hard work, and dedication. Hertz can provide endless opportunity and a career path that lets you choose where you want to be. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... =mr0728.nl) Read More.


AF Language School Openings
The Language Enabled Airman Program (LEAP) is accepting active-duty officer and enlisted applications July 15 - Aug. 22. Those intending to submit applications must register their intent to apply by Aug. 8. Officer candidate students in their senior years may also apply. LEAP is designed for those active-duty Airmen who already have some existing language capability. Participants in LEAP are required to complete online training, as well as to attend periodic temporary duty assignments called Language Intensive Training Events to enhance their language skills. Detailed eligibility requirements and application instructions are available on the Air Force Culture and Language Center's website at (http://culture.af.mil/leap/index.aspx) http://culture.af.mil/leap/index.aspx. Follow the (https://www.facebook.com/AirForceCultur ... uageCenter) Air Force Culture and Language Center on Facebook.


AF Promotions: 460 New Captains
The 2014A Line of the Air Force, Chaplain Corps, Judge Advocate General Corps, Nurse Corps, Medical Services Corps and Biomedical Sciences Corps Quarterly Captain Selection Process selected 460 first lieutenants for promotion to captain. The selection lists are available on myPers at (https://mypers.af.mil) https://mypers.af.mil -- select the active duty officer component from the top drop down menu, select promotion under "Learn More About" and scroll down to the promotion select list section. Lists will also be available on the Air Force Portal at (https://my.af.mil/) https://my.af.mil. For more information about other personnel issues, visit the myPers website at (https://mypers.af.mil) https://mypers.af.mil.


$50,000 Financial Protection Only $2.50 a Month
Protection for less. Get $50,000 Coverage from only $72.50 a month. (http://www.military.com/insurance/?lpid ... C=mrvr0728.) Could your family afford their lifestyle if something happened to you?


Army Tracking New Disease
The U.S. Army Public Health Command is responding rapidly to an emerging viral infection that is threatening the United States. The emergence of the chikungunya virus in the Caribbean makes it a disease of concern to the U.S. Mainland. Chikungunya is spread by two species of mosquitoes that are commonly found in the U.S. People should wear insect repellant with DEET and light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Other preventive measures include stopping mosquitoes from reproducing. If you are in one of the places where chikungunya is found, treat your clothing with permethrin using an aerosol can or IDA kit (Individual Dynamic Absorption Kit for uniforms). The IDA kit is only authorized for use on military uniforms not civilian clothing. For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website at (http://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/) www.cdc.gov/chikungunya, the (http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs327/en/) World Health Organization (WHO) website and the (http://www.paho.org/hq/index.php?option ... emid=40931) Pan American Health Organization website.


Angry About Benefit Cuts? Tell Your Reps!
Congress must make some big decisions in the second half of this year. The full House and the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) completed their respective drafts of the FY 2015 defense authorization bill. The SASC-passed version of the defense bill would make a number of cuts to pay and benefits proposed by the administration. The House-passed version of the defense bill rejects all of these cuts. These issues will be debated this fall. It's imperative legislators know how military families feel about them. August is when most elected officials return to their home offices. If you would like to visit your legislators' local offices (or just learn more about the issues) Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) makes it easy by sharing some important information with you. Visit MOAA's August recess page for valuable fact sheets, statistical information about your state and talking points: (http://www.moaa.org/MRvylia/) http://www.moaa.org/MRvylia.


NCOA Career Expo Update
Each year the Non Commissioned Officers Association hosts a series of Career Expos nationwide, which serve all five branches and all ranks of the U.S. Military, including veterans. Upcoming events include (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-ncoa- ... 9462347135) Newport News, VA on July 29, (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-ncoa- ... 9462607915) Norfolk, VA on July 31, (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-ncoa- ... 9462682137) San Francisco, CA on August 5, and (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-ncoa- ... 9462780431) NAS Lemoore CA on August 7. Visit the (http://ncoacareerexpos.org/index.php/career-expos/) NCOA Career Expo website to receive a complete list of participating employers, view the schedule of upcoming events, and register for (http://ncoacareerexpos.org/index.php/career-expos/) NCOA Career Expos.