Military Report - Week of August 27, 2012

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Military Report - Week of August 27, 2012

New AF Portraits in Courage
Twenty Airmen are featured in the latest volume of the Air Force's Portraits in Courage series, which highlights Airmen who display bravery and determination in the face of challenging or dangerous circumstances. "These exceptional Airmen persisted through extraordinary circumstances, confronted unforeseen dangers and surmounted seemingly impossible challenges, all to accomplish their missions, and often saving the lives of others in the process," wrote former Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Chief Master Sgt. Of the Air Force James A. Roy, in the volume's preface. The new series is available on the Portraits in Courage website at (http://www.af.mil/specials/courage/index.html) www.af.mil/specials/courage/index.html .
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


USS Constitution Sets Sail
The USS Constitution departed her berth from Charlestown, Mass. Aug. 19, to set sail for the first time since 1997. The underway honored the 200th anniversary of Constitution's decisive victory over the HMS Guerriere during the War of 1812, marking the first time a United States frigate defeated a Royal Navy frigate at or nearly equal size. It is also the battle in which Constitution earned her famous nickname "Old Ironsides." The USS Constitution is the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat and welcomes more than 500,000 visitors per year. For more information, visit the USS Constitution website at www.history.navy.mil/ussconstitution and the (http://www.facebook.com/ussconstitutionofficial) USS Constitution Facebook page.
For more military history resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/history) Military.com History Center.


Navy Announces Early Retirement Board
The U.S. Navy has approved the Sept. 11 convening of a fiscal year (FY) 2013 Selected Early Retirement (SER) board for active duty supply corps commanders. Supply corps commanders being considered are those who have not been selected for captain two or more times and are within the defined zone. Only officers being considered by the SER may communicate with the selection board. Board correspondence must arrive before midnight Sept. 10 via mail or by e-mail at cscselboard@navy.mil. For eligibility zone information and other key SER details, see NAVADMIN 244/12 on the Navy Personnel Command website at www.npc.navy.mil. Meanwhile, the Special Duty Officer (Oceanography) captain and commander oceanography SER boards were cancelled because sufficient voluntary retirement requests were received to balance the community.
For more Navy news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


Zero Tolerance for "Bath Salts"
The dangerous designer drug 'bath salts' contains chemicals that are synthetic derivatives of cathinone, a central nervous system stimulant, and are known to effect users in a variety of ways, from agitation, insomnia, irritability and dizziness to depression, paranoia, delusions and suicidal thoughts. Use of the drug is banned in all states. Bath salts are ingested by sniffing or snorting. The Air Force's stance on bath salts and similar substances is clear: zero tolerance. (http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/shared/m ... 44-120.pdf) Air Force Instruction 44-120 says the "knowing use of any intoxicating substance, other than the lawful use of alcohol or tobacco products, that is inhaled, injected, consumed or introduced into the body in any manner to alter mood or function is prohibited."
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


AF Offers Online Library Resources
OverDrive, one of several Air Force library online resources, features nearly 10,000 electronic books, audio books, videos and music available for checkout to eligible customers. All Airmen with an official Air Force email address are eligible to set up their own account, and family members or others who do not have an Air Force email address can sign up for an account at their Air Force library. To create an account online using your Air Force email address, visit the U.S. Air Force Digital Media Program website at (http://af.lib.overdrive.com/) http://af.lib.overdrive.com. From there, follow the instructions on the "email self registration" option. A help menu has links to videos for those who need a little more assistance.
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


H.R. 1627 Improves VA Loans
On August 6, 2012 President Obama signed The Honoring America's Veterans and Caring for Camp Lejeune Families Act (H.R. 1627). The new law addresses some of the problems veterans have been facing recently including medical conditions caused by contaminated water used by families stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The signed legislation also makes certain veterans benefits, like VA loans, more readily available. New law makes VA loans available to more surviving spouses, disabled vets and single parents, and VA loan limits return to $729,750 to over $1,000,000 for high-cost areas. (http://www.military.com/money/va-loans/ ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read the full article on Military.com to see the 5 major VA Loan changes.


Test Your Military Trivia Knowledge
Think you know military history and trivia? Test your knowledge with our the (http://www.military.com/Trivia/Home?ESRC=mrvr.nl) Military.com Trivia Challenge. Here's how you win: For each question you answer correctly you'll receive one point, and for each point you'll earn an electronic raffle ticket. At the end of the month we'll have a random drawing of all the tickets and pull out one to determine the winner. Play as little or as much as you'd like during the month, but the more questions you answer correctly, the greater your chances of winning. (http://www.military.com/Trivia/Home?ESRC=mrvr.nl) Play Now.


Suicide Rates Reach High
The Pentagon reports that thirty-eight soldiers are suspected of committing suicide in July, which was the worst month for suicides since the Army first started releasing monthly figures in 2009. Suicide rates in other military services are not looking much better with both Marine Corps and Coast Guard suicide rates already above those reported in 2011. For resources to prevent suicide, visit the U.S (http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/default.asp) . Army Suicide Prevention Program webpage. If you are a servicemember in crisis, or know a servicemember who is, confidential support is only a phone call, click, or text away. Call the Military Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255--press 1. Or text to 838255. Or visit the (http://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ActiveDuty.aspx) Military Crisis Line website to start a confidential chat with a caring, qualified responder.
For more military support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse/) Military.com Family Center.


Beware of Unexploded Ordnance
Parents should teach children about the dangers of unexploded ordnance (UXOs) and about off-limits areas on their base installation. Unexploded ordnance is interesting in color and may be tempting for children. Large signs often mark the dangerous areas on an installation. Remember the three R's, Recognize, Retreat and Report. If you see something unusual laying on the ground: (1) do not touch it--Recognize it; (2) leave the area the same way you entered--Retreat; and (3) mark the area and call range control-- Report it. For more information, visit the (https://www.denix.osd.mil/uxo/index.cfm) DoD Environment, Safety and Occupational Health Network and Information Exchange, UXO Safety Home Page.
For more military family support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse/) Military.com Family Center.


Employer Spotlight: HNTB Hiring Vets
For nearly a century, HNTB Corporation has helped create infrastructure that best meets the unique demands of its environment. At HNTB, we encourage employees to take ownership in the projects they support and ensure they are challenged each step of the way. It also means that every person's job makes an impact -- just like the serving in the military.
(http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl) Visit the HNTB Veteran Talent Portal to find Jobs that Match Your Skills.


Romney to Speak at American Legion Event
The American Legion's 94th Annual National Convention in Indianapolis, will feature Mitt Romney, VA Secretary Eric Shinseki and a pre-recorded video message by President Barack Obama. In addition to Mitt Romney and Secretary Shinseki, speakers include Ike Skelton, former chairman of the House Armed Services Committee; Rep. Andre Carson (7th Dist.-Ind.) and Governor Mitch Daniels of Indiana. The American Legion's National Convention will take place Sunday, Aug. 26 to Thursday, Aug. 30 at the Indiana Convention Center. (Some programs and activities will also be held at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. Visit (http://www.legion.org/) The American Legion website to learn more about this year's national convention.
To keep up with legislation and laws that affect servicemembers and veterans, and make your voice heard with politicians, visit the (http://capwiz.com/military/home/) Military.com Legislation Center.


Mobile PTSD App Helps Vets
Mobile apps like the PTSD Coach can identify signs of PTSD, manage symptoms, and connect with resources and help instantly. And according to studies, early intervention may prevent long term damage to mental health. For more information, read (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/7895/mo ... nage-ptsd/) VA's VAntage Point Blog.
For more PTSD information and support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/vetera ... rview.html) Military.com PTSD page.


Paws Assisting Wounded Warriors (PAWWS)
The not-for-profit organization Paws Assisting Wounded Warriors (PAWWS) in Palos Heights, IL trains service dogs for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The dogs are taught 18 tasks from obedience commands to service. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Certified Service Dogs are allowed by law to enter public places such as the veteran's work place, restaurants, buses, and stores. The program runs approximately 6 months in length and is comprised of several training stages, most of which are catered to the individual requirements of each soldier / canine team. For more information, visit the (http://pawsassistingwoundedwarriors.org/) Paws Assisting Wounded Warriors website.
For more military-related pet news, visit the (http://www.military.com/off-duty/pet-corner) Military.com Pet Corner.


AF HYT Changes in 2013
High year of tenure changes announced by the U.S. Air Force in December will go into effect in September, 2013. The high year of tenure (HYT) refers to the maximum number of years enlisted Airmen in each grade may remain on active duty. Beginning in 2013, high year of tenure limits for senior airmen will be reduced from 10 years to eight years; staff sergeant 20 years to 15 years; and technical sergeant 22 years to 20 years. Assignments are selected in most cases between 15 and 18 months in advance. For more information on high year tenure, assignments and other personnel issues, visit the (http://mypers.af.mil) Air Force Personnel Services website.
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


Air Force's New Robust Urinalysis Test
The Air Force Spice Testing Lab recently became fully operational with a robust urinalysis testing program as part of the Air Force's ongoing efforts to deter use of Spice, the common name for synthetic cannabinoids. The Spice Lab is capable of handling 2,500 active duty Air Force samples per month, with the potential to increase testing to 60,000 samples per year. The lab is taking over the full Spice-testing responsibility from a commercial contract laboratory that previously handled the testing. Active duty Air Force commanders can send samples that are either commander-directed or taken as a part of unit, dorm, and gate sweeps to the Air Force Spice Testing Lab for testing.
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


Express Mail for Military Ballots
Effective Sept. 1, 2012, through Nov. 30, 2012, customers can mail their Casted Absentee Ballots back to the United States for free using express mail military service. To receive this free service, customers must present absentee ballots at a post office finance window to receive a copy of the express mail 11-DoD label. The express mail label includes a tracking number customers can use to track the status of ballots on the (https://tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirmA ... put.action) Postal Service website. This service is only available to citizens who are casting votes by absentee ballot and cannot be used for other voting material mailings. All American citizens overseas, regardless of status, are authorized to use this free service and the military postal system to mail absentee ballots at any military post office.
(http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,249103,00.html) Read more about Military Absentee Voting.


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 4 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.


Quick Tips for Student Veterans
As summer ends many veterans are getting ready to go back to school. For many this will be their first time attending school using the GI Bill. The VA has some advice for those planning to use their VA education benefits. Their advice will help you spend more time thinking about homework and exams and less time thinking about GI Bill paperwork.
(http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... -students/) Read the Military Advantage Blog for the full list of VA Quick Tips.


AF Needs Career Enlisted Aviators
The Air Force is seeking retrainees to become career enlisted aviators as flight engineers, aircraft loadmasters, flight attendants, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operators. Airmen can increase their chances of selection by familiarizing themselves with the retraining advisory on the (https://mypers.af.mil/) myPers website. Then, they can apply for every position for which they qualify. For more information, contact Master Sgt. Matt Ardis at 703-697-1717 or DSN 227-1717.
For more Air Force news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


AF Streamlines PCS Process
The Air Force Personnel Center has centralized how Permanent Change of Station orders are processed, validated and authenticated. Today, military personnel sections (MPSs) approve PCS orders while TFSC-SA representatives validate and authenticate them. The entire process now takes two to three days and Airmen are getting their PCS orders about 120 days before their projected departure dates, which is 30 days faster than when the process was managed at base-level MPSs. As long as Airmen meet all their PCS requirements, they will not see any differences as to who is processing their orders. Guidance and assistance on the PCS orders process is available through Tier 0 and 1 support at the TFSC-SA and on the (http://mypers.af.mil) myPers website.
For more PCS resources and guides, visit the (http://www.military.com/money/pcs-dity-move) Military.com PCS section.


Deal of the Week: Free Sea World Tickets
Anheuser-Busch salutes those who serve through their "Here's to the Heroes" program. Active duty, Reservists, and National Guardsman (and three dependents) can obtaiin one free admission to any one of the amusements parks: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Sesame Place, Water Country USA, and Adventure Island each calendar year. (http://www.military.com/discounts/deal- ... ESRC=mr.nl) Get this deal.


Get Personalized Transition Checklists and Tips
Military.com has launched the new Military Transition Center, which features revolutionary personalized checklists to guide servicemembers and retirees through transition even before you begin the separation process. The Transition Center works simply, but effectively. Designed to be the first place you go to plan your transition. Simply enter in your estimated separation date and you'll receive monthly email notifications with checklists and tips to help prepare for your exit from the military -- benefits and options after transition, civilian careers that match your military experience, resume keywords, interview tips, financial changes, relocation advice and more. (http://www.military.com/military-transi ... RC=mrvr.nl) Visit the Military Transition Center Now.


AF Enlisted Village Supports Widows
The Air Force Enlisted Village was founded in 1967 with the goal of providing a home for surviving spouses of enlisted Air Force members. There are three separate villages. The Bob Hope Village and Theresa Village are independent living villages. The Hawthorn House provides assisted living and memory care. Although there are certain requirements to live in the village, exceptions are often made. The whole village is a gated community with round-the-clock guards. For more information, visit the Air Force Enlisted Village website at (http://www.afev.us/) www.afev.us/.
For more military family support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse/) Military.com Family Center.


Requesting Military Records
Veterans who retired before Oct. 1, 2004 must visit the (http://www.archives.gov/veterans/milita ... e-records/) National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) website for record request instructions. People requesting the record of a deceased relative who retired before Oct. 1, 2004 may now use the NPRC website to order a copy of the military records. Regardless of the request procedures used, processing can take time. Do not send a follow-up request before 90 days have elapsed as it may cause further delays. Veterans who retired after Oct. 1, 2004 can access certain records online by registering for a premium account on (http://www.ebenefits.va.gov/) www.eBenefits.va.gov. Click the register button at the top of the home page and follow the instructions provided to obtain a premium account. The website may not be inclusive for all retirees.
For more on military benefits and records, and how to access them, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.


American Legion Issues Report
The American Legion has published (http://www.legion.org/documents/legion/ ... atform.pdf) a special report on key election issues geared toward candidates for national office, their challengers, voters and others who are interested. The 28-page report, "Our Pillars, Your Platform," pinpoints the Legion's stand on the most critical issues of today such as veterans' health care, jobs and education for returning servicemembers, immigration, benefits and more. The report is available on the (http://www.legion.org/documents/legion/ ... atform.pdf) American Legion website.
To keep up with legislation and laws that affect servicemembers and veterans, and make your voice heard with politicians, visit the (http://capwiz.com/military/home/) Military.com Legislation Center.


New Army Doctrine Manuals
The Army will soon publish a new series of manuals that will reflect a different approach to writing doctrine and lessons learned in Iraq and Afghanistan. Several of these new manuals have already been put into print, such as Army Doctrine Publication (ADP) 3-0 and 5-0, but on Aug. 31 it is expected that most of the remaining foundational manuals will be complete and made available to the public. As part of this effort, the Army will replace FM 7-0, Training Units and Developing Leaders for Full Spectrum Operations with two new manuals: Army Doctrine Publication (ADP) 7-0 and Army Doctrine Reference Publication (ADRP) 7-0. Look for these products on the (https://atn.army.mil) Army Training Network (ATN) on Aug. 31. The PDF manuals also can be accessed from the (http://www.apd.army.mil/) Army Publishing Directorate website.
For more Army news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


Military Advance Pay
The purpose of advance pay is to give funds to a member to meet extraordinary expenses incident to a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). It is intended to assist with the out-of-pocket expenses, not typical of day-to-day military living, that precede or exceed reimbursements incurred in a member's change of duty locations. An advance of pay is not authorized for the specific out-of-pocket expenses covered by advances of other allowances and entitlements, if those advances are used (to include travel allowances and per diem, overseas station housing allowance, basic allowance for housing, and dislocation allowance). The member's commander has a responsibility to ensure that an advance of pay is used only to help with the financial burden of a PCS. (http://www.military.com/benefits/milita ... ESRC=mr.nl) Get more information on Military.com.
(http://www.military.com/benefits/milita ... RC=mrvr.nl) Visit the Military.com Pay and Benefits Section to view current pay charts, BAH rates and more.


Therapy May Ease PTSD Symptoms
A new study suggests couples therapy may reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and increase relationship satisfaction. The study compared 20 couples who received the therapy with 20 couples who were put on a waiting list for it in 2008 - 2012. After the joint therapy, the PTSD symptoms were three times less severe than for the people on the waiting list. And, they reported that relationship satisfaction increased four times more than the couples on the waiting list. An abstract of the study is available in the August 15, 2012 edition of the (http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.asp ... id=1346190) Journal of the American Medical Association. Learn about (http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/Vet_Center_Services.asp) counseling at Vet Centers on VA's (http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/Vet_Center_Services.asp) Vet Centers webpage.
For more PTSD information and support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/vetera ... rview.html) Military.com PTSD page.


Navy Accepting CMC/CSC Applications
The U.S. Navy is accepting applications for the Command Master Chief (CMC) and Command Senior Chief (CSC) program. A selection board is scheduled in January 2013. Applications are due Dec. 1. CMC and CSC selection boards convene annually at the Naval Personnel Command (NPC). Master chiefs and senior chiefs selected into the CMC/CSC program will be assigned by the CMC detailer based on billet availability, experience, qualifications, and desires. For more information, read NAVADMIN 247/12 and OPNAVINST 1306.2G at the Navy Personnel Command website at (http://www.npc.navy.mil) www.npc.navy.mil.
For more Navy news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.