Military Report - Week of September 03, 2007

[boardman]

Military Report - Week of September 03, 2007

Exchanges Sponsor Summer Sweepstakes
The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) and Game Zone are sponsoring the "Exchange Online Store Super Summer Sweepstakes." Now through Sept. 15, AAFES shoppers 18 years of age and older in the 50 United States and the District of Columbia can enter to win the sweepstakes by logging onto (http://www.aafes.com/) www.aafes.com. Only one entry is allowed per day, but there is no limit to the amount of entries throughout the course of the sweepstakes. The winner will be selected in a random drawing on or about Sept. 21.

Sign up for the Freedom Walk
In 2005, Pentagon employees created The America Supports You Freedom Walk to commemorate the attack on the Pentagon and honor all lives lost on September 11. What began as a small gesture has become a new national tradition. Last year, over 135 Freedom Walks of all types and sizes were held across the U.S. to honor the victims of September 11, reflect on the freedoms we have in America, and pay tribute to our veterans, past and present.

The National Freedom Walk will be held in Washington, D.C. on Sunday, September 9, 2007, at 9:00 a.m. Local Freedom Walks will be held across America from September 8-11 in cities, workplaces and schools. Anyone is welcome to host or organize a Freedom Walk, or participate in a walk in their local community.

Interested walkers can log on to (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... 90307_Walk) http://www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil.

New Threat Reporting Procedures
The Defense Department has announced that it will close the TALON (Threat and Local Observation Notices) intelligence reporting system Sept. 17 and maintain a record copy of the collected data in accordance with intelligence oversight requirements. A new system will be proposed. In the interim, until this new reporting program is adopted, DoD components will send information concerning force protection threats to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Guardian reporting system. There is no timeline to establish a new system, and it may be determined that the Guardian system or another reporting system already in place serves the needs of the Defense Department.

Scholarships for Children of Marines
Children of active-duty, reserve, retired, deceased or honorably discharged Marine parents are eligible to receive college money from the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. The needs-based scholarships require the annual family income be less than $77,000. The foundation also awards the Heroes Tribute scholarship, a $20,000 endowment to the child of a parent killed in action during the Long War. Graduating high-school seniors must submit by March 3, 2008, and all other students have an April 15 deadline. Applications are available at the (http://www.mcsf.org/) Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation website.

Remember: Not applying for scholarships is like turning down free money. Get started on your search for scholarships today - visit the (http://aid.military.com/scholarship/sea ... arships.do) Military.com Scholarship Finder.

Exchange Shoppers Save with Select Brand
Military shoppers in search of the best value for their dollar are reaching for the "private label" products manufactured under the Exchange Services' "Exchange Select" brand. Whether shopping for health and beauty care items, household cleaning and laundry products, or even a single-use camera, Exchange Select products offer quality that is equal to or better than equivalent national brands at an average savings of 50 percent. All over-the-counter medicines, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, meet FDA established guidelines, which are the same for Exchange Select and national brand equivalent products. The Exchange Services continue to broaden their "private label" assortment.

Find great discounts on products for military servicemembers only in the (http://img.military.com/misc/DC/DealIndex.jsp) Military.com Discount Center.

Army Referral Bonus Program
Under the Army's Referral Bonus Program, sponsors can earn $2,000 for each contract - $1,000 once a recruit starts basic training, then an additional $1,000 when the Soldier graduates advanced individual training. To qualify for the bonus, sponsors must make referrals through the Army Referral System program under the Sergeant Major of the Army Recruiting Team (SMART) program at the (https://www.usarec.army.mil/smart) SMART website or call (800) 223-3735, ext. 6-0473. Referrals for the National Guard must be made through the (http://www.1800goguard.com/esar) National Guard's website or by phone at (866) 566-2472. For more information on the Special Recruiter Assistance Program, visit its website at (http://www.2k.army.mil/srap.htm) www.2k.army.mil/srap.htm.

To find complete information on current cash enlistment incentives (signing bonuses) and reenlistment bonuses offered by each of the Armed Forces, visit the (http://www.military.com/recruiting/bonus-center/) Military.com Bonus Center.

Exchange Fall/Winter Catalog Available
The Exchange's 2007 Home Decor Fall/Winter Catalog is now arriving in military exchanges and authorized shoppers' mailboxes. From lamps to linens, the new, 84-page catalog is full of ideas for dining, entertaining, storage and organization. The 2007 Home Decor Fall/Winter Catalog is available at all main stores and online at (http://www.aafes.com/) aafes.com. Prices in this all-services catalog are valid from July 22, 2007, through Dec. 31, 2007, for any authorized exchange customer. Orders can be placed by mail, fax or phone. Toll free orders can be placed from the United States, Puerto Rico or Guam at 800-527-2345. The Exchange Catalog center is open around the clock, seven days a week.

Find great discounts on products for military servicemembers only in the (http://img.military.com/misc/DC/DealIndex.jsp) Military.com Discount Center.

Become a Special Agent, Get $20K
A $20,000 lump-sum Critical Skills Accession Bonus (CSAB) is being offered to active-duty enlisted Soldiers who complete the Criminal Investigation Command Special Agent Warrant Officer Basic Course by Sept. 30, 2008. The CSAB targets the 31 series Military Occupational Specialty for military police NCOs selected for appointment to warrant officer positions in the 311A MOS. Enlisted special agents with at least 24 months of CID investigative experience, a minimum of 60 hours of college credit, and who are no longer on probationary status are eligible to receive the bonus. The application process and checklist forms are available on the (http://www.usarec.army.mil/hq/warrant) Army's Warrant Officer Recruiting website.

To find complete information on current cash enlistment incentives (signing bonuses) and reenlistment bonuses offered by each of the Armed Forces, visit the (http://www.military.com/recruiting/bonus-center/) Military.com Bonus Center.

Book Helps Military Spouses
Kathie Hightower and Holly Scherer, both Army wives of more than 20 years, are helping spouses find fulfillment and happiness with their book, "Help! I'm a Military Spouse - I Get a Life Too! How to Craft a Life for You as You Move with the Military." The book is based on the "Follow Your Dreams While You Follow the Military" workshop the authors have offered to Army spouses for the last 13 years. Their suggestions are based on research and feedback from other military wives. For more information about the "Follow Your Dreams" workshop and the book, visit the (http://www.militaryspousehelp.com/) Military Spouse Help website. To learn more about Hightower and Scherer, (http://www.military.com/Opinions/0,,Hig ... ex,00.html) read their articles on Military.com.

To find more resources for military spouses, visit (http://www.military.com/spouse) http://www.military.com/spouse.

Rebuilding Together
The Washington state charity "Heroes at Home" aims to help military families and veterans remain in the homes they own and the communities in which they live. The program is a charitable partnership between the Washington-based group Rebuilding Together, a national volunteer home-rehabilitation organization, and the parent company of Sears and Kmart stores. Help comes in the form necessary repairs, improvements or modifications to these families' homes at no cost to them. Rebuilding Together operates another similar program for injured veterans called "Serving Those Who Serve." For more information, visit the (http://rebuildingtogetherstage.forumone.com/) Rebuilding Together website.

Featured Job: Own Your Own Business
Want to be your own boss and run your own company? Visit the Military.com franchise finder to find the perfect company to open. See if ownership is right for you. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... 090307_Job) Get more information here.

Facts on the GI Bill Top-Up Program
Top-Up is a program that allows VA to pay the remaining balance after your military tuition assistance benefit has been paid. The amount of Top-Up is equal to the difference between the total cost of a college course and the amount of tuition assistance that is paid by the military for the course. Top-Up payments are limited to what you would receive for the same course if you used your regular GI Bill benefits. In no case can the amount paid by the military combined with the amount paid by VA be more than the total cost of the course. To find out if you are eligible for the Top-Up program and how you can apply, view the (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... 307_Top-Up) Top-Up Education Fact Sheet at Military.com.

To learn about GI Bill benefits and military-friendly schools, (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... 07_edu_ctr) request free information today.

Army Offers Payday Loans Alternatives
The Army offers alternatives to payday lending to help Soldiers in financial need. Soldiers can fill out an application for an interest-free loan and receive a check the same day with a commander's approval under the Commanders Referral program. Soldiers may receive up to $2,000 a year in two loans and the first loan must be repaid before seeking Commanders Referral again. The timeline for paying back the funds is prorated depending on budget and current finances. Either way, the terms are much more flexible than those of a payday lender. The Army also offers an emergency food program that helps Soldiers buy food when funds are tight.

To learn more about personal finances, visit the (http://www.military.com/Finance/) Military.com Finance Center.

Dining Facilities Open to Retirees
In commemoration of the Air Force's 60th anniversary, the director of Services is encouraging all major Air Force command and installation commanders to allow retirees to use dining facilities Sept. 18. Allowing retirees to use dining facilities on this day not only gives them a chance to relive their past, but to share that past with today's Airmen. Whether or not an installation's dining facility is open to retirees on the anniversary date will depend upon local mission requirements. People should check with their local retiree activities office or dining facility for more information dining opportunities, meal times and surcharge costs.

Hear 4 You
The new, no-cost program "Hear 4 You" aims to develop a network of volunteers to listen to military personnel and their families affected by post-deployment stress and post-traumatic stress disorder. The program is one of many services offered by (http://www.silverstarfamilies.org/) Silver Star Families of America, which supports families of wounded servicemembers. Thirteen Silver Star Families of America volunteers man e-mail or instant-messaging accounts to answer concerns of servicemembers. Military personnel or family members wishing talk to a volunteer through the Hear 4 You program can do so through the (http://www.silverstarfamilies.org/Hear4 ... Intro.html) Hear 4 You webpage.

To find information and resources for PTSD, visit (http://www.military.com/benefits/resour ... d-overview) http://www.military.com/benefits/resour ... d-overview.

Morale, Welfare and Recreation Sponsors Contest
Morale, Welfare and Recreation patrons who "Dress the Dog" at participating MWR food and beverage facilities can win big prizes simply by eating hot dogs this summer. Participants have a chance to win a 2008 Ford Mustang, an all-inclusive, five-night stay at Shades of Green on Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., or Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch, Germany, one of five $100 gift cards to military exchanges and commissaries, various electronic products or a mountain bike. The promotion features a frequency card program. For more information, visit the (http://www.mwrpromotions.com/) MWR Promotions webpage.

Navy Approves Physical Fitness Uniform
The new Navy physical fitness uniform has been approved for all Sailors E-1 through O-10. The uniform consists of a gold, short-sleeved shirt and Navy blue shorts. Upon delivery to the fleet, anticipated to be spring 2008 - all command directed physical training and semi-annual physical fitness tests will be performed while wearing the new PT uniform. Uniform availability at uniform centers and command uniform distribution activities will be phased in beginning with major Fleet concentration areas in spring 2008. Sailors' clothing replacement allowance will be adjusted starting Oct.1, 2007 to allow for the purchase of two sets of short sleeve shirts and shorts.

Air Force Changes Fitness Test
Air Force officials recently announced a change to physical fitness test standards for all Airmen. The "marginal" category has been eliminated, and the test will now be either pass or fail. With the change, a score below 75 is considered failing, and Airmen will have to retest within 90 days.

Army Releases Suicide Report
According to a report released by the U.S. Army, 2006 marks the highest rate of military suicides in 26 years. The Army Suicide Event Report, which tracks suicide attempts and completions and the factors involved, showed the majority of suicides in 2006 involved firearms and the most common contributing factors were failed personal relationships and occupational, legal and financial problems. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among Army National Guard Soldiers. For more information on suicide prevention, including crisis telephone numbers, visit the (http://www.armyg1.army.mil/HR/suicide/default.asp) Army's Suicide Prevention website.

To find more information and resources for PTSD, visit (http://www.military.com/benefits/resour ... d-overview) http://www.military.com/benefits/resour ... d-overview.

Better Pay for Combat-Related Disabilities?
The Bush administration is preparing a legislative proposal to present to Congress in September that would establish a separate and, under most circumstances, a more generous disability package for servicemembers who are injured in war or while training for war, sources said. Under the plan, recommended by the Dole-Shalala commission, servicemembers found unfit for duty as a result of combat or combat-training injuries, regardless of the number of years served, would qualify for an immediate lifetime annuity from the Department of Defense. For more information, (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,146937,00.html) read the article on the Military.com website.

How do you feel about this action? (http://capwiz.com/military/issues/alert ... 26&type=CO) Let your public officials know how you feel!

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. It's an inexpensive way to have half a million dollars worth of coverage. New members receive $3,000 FREE Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance. There are no dues or assessments beyond the life insurance premiums. To request free, no-obligation information (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... _090307.nl) click here.

Pacific Preschool Applications Being Taken
Stars and Stripes reports that Department of Defense Dependents Schools-Pacific (DODDS-P) is accepting preschool Sure Start program applications for the upcoming school year. Sure Start is modeled after the Head Start Program in the United States and is designed to help children who may need additional experiences to prepare them for kindergarten. All Sure Start students must be command sponsored, and Sure Start candidates must turn 4 on or before Oct. 31. Please check with the school in your community for application deadline and program start date. For more information on the program, visit the Sure Start webpage on the (http://www.pac.dodea.edu/edservices/Edu ... estart.htm) DODDS-P website.

Deal of the Week: Apple iPod & Other Products
Apple salutes the US Military. Now government and military personnel can receive up to 6-17% off Apple products for personal use. This includes the world's most popular digital music player, the iPod. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... 90307_Deal) Shop Online Now to access these exclusive discounts. Free Shipping on orders over $50. Free engraving on any iPod.

Air Force Announces Force-Shaping Plans
The Air Force plans to meet a 2008 fiscal year end-strength of 328,600, which calls for a force reduction of about 5,400 officers and enlisted members. Voluntary separation pay (VSP) will be offered to approximately 200 officers in overage career fields with 12 to 15 years time in service. Eligible officers will be able to submit applications for VSP from Sept. 5, 2007. Additionally, officers with a minimum of 20 years active service and at least eight years of commissioned service may apply for retirement. Retirement dates must be no later than Sept. 1, 2008. The Air Force will also hold a force-shaping board in March2008.

Program Aids Exceptional Family Members
For deployed Soldiers, the Army's Respite Care Program now offers up to 40 hours of care monthly for each registered exceptional family member. The program offers a choice to the family about specifics of where and who will provide those hours. To apply for Respite Care, a physician must verify that the family member is in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP). If the family member is in school, he must have an individual education program and at least a moderate recorded disability. Infants and toddlers must be on an individual family service plan, and also have at least a moderate recorded disability. Those interested should also contact the EFMP managers in their communities.

To find more deployment news and resources, visit (http://www.military.com/deployment) http://www.military.com/deployment.

[boardman]

Military Report - Week of September 10, 2007

Selfridge Retiree Appreciation Day Conference
Ft. McCoy's Lower Michigan Retirement Affairs Council (RAC) is hosting this year's Retiree Appreciation Day (RAD) Conference on 29 September 2007 at the Selfridge Joint Dining Facility. Attendees can register for the conference by printing and completing the registration form at the (http://www.selfridgemwr.com/community/rso.htm) Selfridge website and mailing to the address on the form. You can also email the info to (mailto:selfrao@greatlakes.net) selfrao@greatlakes.net or call at 810-307-5580 or 800-645-9416 x5580. Registration deadline is September 21st.

College Credit for Seabee Courses
The American Council of Education (ACE) recently recommended an additional 100 college credits for 30 Seabee "C" and "F" schools, which are part of the curriculum taught by the Center for Seabees and Facilities Engineering (CSFE). ACE representatives evaluated 30 courses that had not previously been assessed. Sailors still need to go to a local Navy College Office to determine if the credits will be accepted at the college or university of their choice. For more information on the courses recommended for credit recommendation, visit the (http://www.militaryguides.acenet.edu/CourseSearch.asp) ACE website. For detailed information on Seabee ratings visit the (https://wwwa.nko.navy.mil/portal/commni ... yId=comm16) Center for Seabees and Facilities Engineering site on Navy Knowledge Online.

Visit the Military-Friendly School Finder and (http://schools.military.com/schoolfinde ... schools.do) search our database of 4,000 schools and their military attributes. Find the right school for your education needs.

The Fleet Reserve Association Offers Free Guide For Sea Service
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To contact your elected officials today and voice your opinion on current military legislation, visit the (http://capwiz.com/military/home/) Military.com Legislative Center.

E-mail Scams Increase
Stars and Stripes reports that the 5th Signal Command has found that criminals increasingly target the Army with scam e-mails and virus-filled file attachments. Many of the e-mails will contain messages about the military in their subject fields, or the attached files will have military jargon in their names. In addition, military e-mail account holders often receive "Nigerian scam" e-mails that seem to offer recipients the chance to gain millions of dollars. The Army is aware of the problem and the Department of Defense is attempting to educate government computer users about it.

Congress May Create War Dog Monument
The West Coast War Dog Memorial in California may soon be joined by a national monument on the East Coast honoring the country's canine protectors. Legislation making its way through Congress would create a national memorial at Fort Belvoir, Va., to honor dogs that served in the nation's wars. The provision, which is included in the House's 2008 defense authorization bill, could become law as soon as November if Congress approves. It honors another aspect of the military that is forgotten, said Patricia Korzec, the March Field Air Museum executive director. Man's best friend truly turned out to be man's best friend on the battlefield. To learn more, (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,148102,00.html) read the article at Military.com.

How do you feel about this action? (http://capwiz.com/military/issues/alert ... 66&type=CO) Let your public officials know how you feel!

Airmen Volunteer for Retraining
Stars and Stripes reports that enlisted Airmen in overmanned career fields are starting to volunteer for the Air Force's 2008 retraining program, which has 900 career field and special duty positions that need to be filled. For this year's program, Airmen who are vulnerable for retraining have until Sept. 21 to offer to retrain. The Air Force lists vulnerability listings by grade and AFSC on its password-protected (http://ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil/) virtual Military Personnel Flight page.

AF Discontinues Use of Base Decals
Air Force officials are working with other services to allow its people to enter installations without requiring them to display a base decal on their vehicles. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley recently ended use of the sticker, officially called a DD Form 2220, on Air Force installations due to cost, a lack of utility and long-term threats facing bases. The decal was developed in the 1970s as part of a vehicle registration and traffic management system, not to bolster security, said Col. William Sellers, the Air Force chief of force protection and operations for security forces. Air Force officials began questioning the value of the vehicle registration system in 2005 due to security concerns. To learn more, (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,146715,00.html) read the article at Military.com.

Air Force Forms, Publications Now Online
Accessing Air Force forms or publications is now easier than ever due to the new, centralized (http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/) Air Force Departmental Publishing Office website, or e-Pubs. A link to the new e-Pubs website is also available for customers on Air Force Link. Publicly available forms and publications will be easier to find using the enhanced search capability available through Air Force Link. Authorized customers who need special products will be automatically directed to the appropriate area or have access to instructions on how to order what they need. Approved Air Force forms and publications will be now available much quicker as teams of analysts now post new forms and publications to the site as soon as they are approved.

Army Extends Support to Families
Families of deceased active-duty Soldiers can receive an extended level of support from it long-term care program, the Army Long Term Family Case Management program. The program provides long-term support to families of fallen Soldiers by helping them through the often painful and sometimes arduous steps toward receiving benefits and various other types of support. The program also follows congressional legislation that pertains to benefits programs offered to families of deceased Soldiers and posts the information on its (http://www.altfcm.army.mil/) website. For more information, visit the (http://www.altfcm.army.mil/) Long Term Family Case Management website or call a support coordinator at 1-866-272-5841.

To learn about (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits) Survivor Benefits, visit the Military.com Benefits Section.

Forum to Highlight Energy Projects
The Air Force will host an Energy Enhanced Use Lease (EUL) Industry Forum Sep. 26-27, 2007 at the Hilton Ontario Airport Hotel in Ontario, Calif. to showcase how the Air Force intends to use energy projects, both renewable and conventional. The Energy EUL Industry Forum is open to the general public. For more information about this event and to register, visit the (https://www.enstg.com/Signup) Forum's Sign-up webpage (conference code REN96690). You can also call the Air Force Real Property Agency's Renewable Energy EUL team at 703-696-5580 or visit the (http://www.safie.hq.af.mil/afrpa/eul/index.asp) Air Force Enhanced Use Lease Program webpage.

New Virtual Community for Airmen
The Air Force now has a "virtual community" where individuals can go anytime to share information with their peers anywhere in the world. Called "Knowledge Now," this community is a collaborative Web system that is accessible through the Air Force Portal and is designed to allow Airmen of all ranks, specialties and skill levels to communicate with each other on a variety of topics. These subjects are divided into databases and joint work spaces called Communities of Practice, or COPs. These "communities" serve as a resource for Airmen who need information to accomplish a mission. Knowledge Now can be found via the (https://www.my.af.mil/faf/FAF/fafHome.jsp) Air Force Portal so users can access the system from home.

New TRICARE Service Saves Time, Money
Registering for the TRICARE Mail Order Pharmacy (TMOP) just became easier with the recent launch of the new Member Choice Center (MCC). The MCC will contact the physician to obtain new prescriptions and forward them to the TMOP for processing. Beneficiaries can visit the "My Benefit" portal on the (http://www.tricare.mil/) TRICARE website or call MCC at 1-877-363-1433 to complete the registration. The mail order pharmacy can save beneficiaries as much as 66 percent on medications. The beneficiary may receive up to a 90-day supply of most medications for the same amount they would pay for a 30-day supply at a retail pharmacy.

Learn more about the (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricar ... cy-program) TRICARE Mail Order Pharmacy at Military.com.

Freedom Walks Nears 200 Mark Nationwide
In 46 states across the country, 188 groups are planning Freedom Walks to be held in conjunction with the national America Supports You Freedom Walk planned for Sept. 9, 2007 in Washington, D.C. Six Freedom Walks are also planned in overseas locations. Walkers can register for the Washington's National America Supports You Freedom Walk through the (http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/freedomwalk) America Supports You Freedom Walk website. The website also includes a link to registered walks around the country so visitors can locate walks near their communities. It also includes information on how people can organize a walk if none is yet scheduled in their area.

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/resour ... our-troops) Support our Troops webpage.

Navy Requiring More Family Care Plans
Stars and Stripes reports that more Sailors are required to tell the Navy how their children will be cared for while they are deployed. The following servicemembers are now required to submit a Family Care Plan: (1) Sailors with children from a previous relationship; and (2) dual military parents, if one has primary or shared custody of children with someone outside the marriage. The new policy also requires that the Family Care Plans and related documents (such as legal documents) have the same information. Sailors who are unable to or refuse to comply with providing a workable Family Care Plan may be separated from the Navy.

(http://www.military.com/deployment) More Deployment News

Spouse Pens Book on Army Wives
Hoping to share the everyday moments of ordinary Army wives, Army wife Janelle Mock has penned the book, "Portraits of the Toughest Job in the Army: Voices and Faces of Modern Army Wives." The book details the stories of Army wives - their fears, hopes, anger, frustration and job - that Mrs. Mock met while her husband has been in the Army. Mrs. Mock said that by writing the book, she hoped to help military wives find comfort in knowing they are not alone. For more information, visit the (http://www.janellemock.com/toughestjobinthearmy.html) Janelle Mock website. A portion of the book's proceeds are donated to the Fisher House Organization.

To find resources for military spouses, visit (http://www.military.com/spouse) http://www.military.com/spouse.

GI Bill OJT Rates to Go Up and Back Down
On October 1, 2008 the VA will increase the payment rates for all GI Bill related programs including the Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program. However due to the expiration of a 2004 law that increased the OJT payment rate, the OJT payment rate will drop by $110 on January 1, 2008. The net fallout of this change is a loss of up to $2,500 in benefits for veterans and members of the Guard and Reserve who rely on this program to help make ends meet during their transition.

Learn more about the (http://education.military.com/money-for ... jt-program) GI Bill Apprenticeship and OJT Program.

(http://capwiz.com/military/issues/alert ... 06&type=CO) Let your public officials know how you feel about this change.

What Comes After SGLI?
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage ends 120 days after you leave active duty service. Do you have plans for how you are going to meet your life insurance needs once your SGLI expires? Navy Mutual has been dedicated to serving the men and women of the Sea Services. No other provider can claim over 129 years of experience in providing for the insurance needs of Sailors, Marines Coastguardsmen, and their families. You can turn to Navy Mutual for assistance with determining your insurance needs. Contact a representative today to (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... NavyMutual) get a FREE rate quote and to learn how they can help you meet your insurance responsibilities.

Air Force Palace HART Program
The Air Force Palace HART - Helping Airmen Recover Together - program provides individualized personal support Airmen with combat-related illnesses or injuries resulting from operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The program provides a support system that includes (1) the assignment of a family liaison officer through all phases of the process; (2) expanded transition assistance; (3) consultation and analysis for potential temporary duty retirements list, benefits and assistance with initial filing of Department of Veterans Affairs disability claims; (4) extended five-year case management follow-up; and (5) employment placement assistance and counseling.

Featured Job: You're a US Hero - Now be NY's Finest
As the largest police department in America, the NYPD is widely recognized as the nation's leader in law enforcement technology. Now you can be one of NY's Finest. Call 212-Recruit for (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... 091007_Job) free exam info.

Exchanges Sponsor Hunting Sweepstakes
Airmen and Soldiers hunting for bargains at BXs and PXs throughout CONUS, Hawaii and Alaska can bag their share of more than $20,000 worth of outdoor adventure prizes including elk, deer and duck hunts, as well as a new all-terrain vehicle. Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) shoppers can register to win one nine prizes in the AAFES "Hunting Sweepstakes" from Aug. 24 - Sept. 6. Drawing for the AAFES "Hunting Sweepstakes" will be held on or about Oct. 12, 2007. No purchase is necessary to enter and winners do not need to be present to win.

Win a New Dodge Ram Hemi Truck
Back in the Saddle, Bit by Bit (B.I.T.S.), a non profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for combat injured men and women serving or having served in the Armed Services, has announced the launch of a sweepstakes event made possible by Dodge, Dodge Rodeo and Mobile Accord. The grand prize in this sweepstakes is a new Dodge Ram 2500 Q/C Laramie Hemi Truck. This beautiful flame red truck features automatic transmission and a 4x4 8 ft. bed. One grand prize will be awarded to the sweepstakes winner December 15, 2007. Net proceeds of the sweepstakes will benefit B.I.T.S. To learn more and how to enter, (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,148318,00.html) read the article at Military.com.

Tops in Blue Talent Search
The talent search has begun for the 2008 Air Force Tops in Blue tour. The contest will be held at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, Dec. 2-10, 2007. On-stage performers and support staff are needed for the talent competition. All resumes and entertainer videos will be reviewed and those individuals who display the best talent and potential will be invited to compete at the talent contest. Individual application packages must be received at the Air Force Services Agency by Oct. 26, 2007. Interested active duty, Reserve or Air Guard members should contact their base services squadron for more information on how to apply, or visit the (http://www.topsinblue.com/) Tops in Blue website.

TRiPS Now Available on Navy Websites
The Travel Risk Planning System (TRiPS), an online comprehensive self-assessment program that helps Sailors make smart decisions about driving long distances, can now be accessed through Navy Knowledge Online ( (https://wwwa.nko.navy.mil/portal/splash/index.jsp) NKO). In addition to NKO, TRiPS can also be accessed through the (http://www.safetycenter.navy.mil/) Naval Safety Center's website. Your NKO login and password will allow you to access TRiPS, which the assessment can be taken from a home or work computer, giving Sailors more freedom about when and where they take the survey. A growing number of commands require junior troops to use TRiPS before they drive long distances on leave or liberty.

Airmen Invited to Submit Videos
As part of the "Do Something Amazing" national advertising campaign, Airmen are invited to submit videos showing Air Force members in action. The best videos will be posted to the official (http://www.dosomethingamazing.com/) "Do Something Amazing" website. To submit a video for consideration, Airmen should (http://www.dosomethingamazing.com/airmen) click on the website, register, then upload the video. Air Force Recruiting Servicemembers and its advertising agency will work with individuals and their respective public affairs offices to ensure the highest quality product is posted. For more information, visit the (http://www.dosomethingamazing.com/airmen) Do Something Amazing website.

Standardized Navy Funeral Honors Training Available
Standardized Navy funeral honors training for funeral honor guard members held its first class in mid-August 2007. Naval District Washington's Funeral Honors Support Office sponsors the training. Sailors from Navy Region Mid-Atlantic attended the first class. The three days of training covers every aspect of funeral honors and includes a mock funeral. The training is a cooperative effort among CNIC, Naval District Washington and the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard. To arrange for honor guard members to attend training at Naval District Washington, contact Larry Marinelli, Funeral Honor Support Specialist with Naval District Washington, (202) 433-4589.

(http://www.military.com/benefits/burial-and-memorial) Understanding Memorial Benefits

AF Weighs Cut in Special-Duty Pay to Thousands
Air Force leaders are considering cutting special-duty assignment pay for thousands of airmen by $75 per month. Budget constraints are forcing officials to review the special-duty assignment pay, or SDAP, program and reduce the allowance by one level for airmen working in 35 Air Force Specialty Codes, according to a news release. The news release was premature, Capt. Thomas Wenz, an Air Force spokesman, told Stars and Stripes; the cuts "are still under consideration." The Air Force's 2008 budget to Congress earmarked $29.5 million for the SDAP program. The cuts to the program, if made to all but the minimal level of $75 per month, would save the Air Force $7.4 million, according to the news release. To learn more, (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,148325,00.html) read the article at Military.com.

How do you feel about this action? (http://capwiz.com/military/issues/alert ... 51&type=CO) Let your public officials know how you feel!

Deal of the Week: Military Special Discounts
Get Samsung's BlackJack for as low as $99.99 and keep track of your personal and professional life in one economical, easy-to-use PDA. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... 91007_Deal) Shop AT&T 24/7.

Up to $300 Cash Back - Fact or Fiction?
Sounds like a great deal - AT&T is offering up to $300 cash back! The fact is that it's true. But it depends on where you live and what you order. If you live in the southeastern states, you can get up to $300 cash back for ordering a "Bundle" of services. Or, if you live in the West, Midwest or Southwest, the offer is $200 cash back for ordering a Quad Pack, a bundle of local/long distance, high-speed internet, wireless, and digital TV services. Even if you don't order all four services, you'll still get $50 or $75 cash back for each qualifying service. There are some restrictions, so check out the offers at (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... ed_Content) att.com/military and click on the "Special Offers in Selected States" link.

Habitat for Humanity to Build Homes for Veterans
Habitat for Humanity of Orange County is looking for qualified families for 27 homes to be built in San Juan Capistrano, California over the next few years.

* Fourteen of the homes are being marketed to combat-disabled veterans and their families, and surviving families of veterans.
* Thirteen of the homes will be marketed to local families who live in Orange County and are looking for decent, affordable, ownership homes.

This neighborhood will provide for military veterans with combat-related disabilities, and their families, a wonderful area in which to raise their families, and a helping hand to achieve the American Dream of homeownership. To learn about qualifications and how to apply, (http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,148365,00.html) read the article at Military.com.

Take the Employment Survey
Military.com is conducting an employment survey for all military members, veterans and their families. The results will help us better serve your needs through transition, job hunting and taking your career to the next level. Please take a few moments and let your voice be heard. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... 007_Survey) Start now.

DoD Observes Hispanic Heritage Month
The Department of Defense will celebrate the achievements of Hispanic Americans nationwide during Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15- Oct. 15, 2007. The theme for this year's observance is "Hispanic Americans: Making a Positive Impact on American Society." Hispanic Americans make up more than 12 percent of the population of the United States. For more information, including educational materials, visit the (http://www.defenselink.mil/specials/His ... force.html) Hispanic Heritage Month website and the (http://www.cumbavac.org/Hispanic_Heritage.htm) Websites for Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month webpage.

GI Bill Buy-Up Program
If you are an eligible active-duty servicemember the (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... GIB_Buy_Up) GI Bill Buy-Up program can help you get up to an extra $150 a month added to your standard MGIB "pay rate." This could increase your total benefits by as much as $5,400.

Remember, many schools offer free information packets they will mail you. You can request information from multiple schools at once by filling out a form on Military.com. With no obligation or cost, learning about different schools is a great way to take the first step. (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/ou ... _MGIB_Form) Click here to request information.

Airmen Sought for Nurse Commissioning Program
An Air Force supplemental board is scheduled for October 2007 to select 50 additional candidates due to a shortfall in the number of qualified applicants for the Nurse Enlisted Commissioning Program. Program officials are looking to fill those slots for the spring 2008 start date with Airmen who want to complete their bachelor's degree in nursing in two years or less. Airmen must advise Air Force Personnel Center officials of their intent to apply by Sept. 24, submit transcripts for an academic evaluation by Oct. 5, and submit their completed application by Oct. 15. For more information on applying for the supplemental board, call the Air Force Contact Center at 800-616-3775.

Visit the Military-Friendly School Finder and (http://schools.military.com/schoolfinde ... schools.do) search our database of 4,000 schools and their military attributes. Find the right school for your education needs.

Eye Surgery Center Opens
Cutting-edge laser eye surgery procedures for active-duty servicemembers are now available at the first and only Department of Defense Joint Warfighter Refractive Surgery Center that opened recently at Wilford Hall Medical Center at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Currently, it is the only such facility where pilots and boom operators can go to receive LASIK surgery. Refractive surgery is offered to the active-duty military to eliminate dependency on corrective lenses during contingency operations. The goal of the center is to give the warfighter weapons grade vision to increase mission readiness and capabilities.

Improved TRICARE Plan Begins October 1
National Guardsmen and Reservists enrolled in the TRICARE Reserve Select health plan can now go to the TRICARE website to transfer to the new, improved program that will replace it Oct. 1, 2007. Everyone enrolled in the new system will pay one rate, based on coverage: $81 for individuals and $253 for families. All members of the Selected Reserve qualify for the program except those who are eligible for or covered under a federal employee health benefits program. The (http://www.tricare.mil/) TRICARE website offers information about the new program and how to sign up - click on the "My Benefit" link, then to the Guard and Reserve portal.

Learn more about (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricar ... t-overview) TRICARE Reserve Select at Military.com.