Military Report - Week of September 03, 2012

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Military Report - Week of September 03, 2012

Update Your DEERS Enrollment
Whatever your military status, your registration in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) is especially necessary with respect to establishing your TRICARE eligibility. Without your enrollment in DEERS or an enrollment with the correct information, beneficiaries could find their coverage has lapsed, leaving problems with TRICARE claims. Not updating DEERS also hinders your healthcare team's ability to contact you. Updating DEERS is very easy and subsequent updates to the medical information systems happen almost instantaneously. DEERS updates should be made every time you reenlist, transfer, have a change in your dependents' status (marriage, divorce, or new child), move or change your phone number. For changes to information like address, e-mail or phone number, servicemembers can visit the milConnect webpage at (http://www.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect) www.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect.
For more overviews and guides on DEERS, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricar ... deers.html) Military.com DEERS section.


Army to Keep Current PFT for Now
The U.S. Army will retain the current three-event Army Physical Fitness Test, pending a study to determine the best method to measure baseline Soldier physical readiness. Meanwhile, the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) is preparing to reestablish the master fitness trainer program, which will eventually provide commanders at all levels certified fitness advisers. TRADOC will also transition TC 3-22.20 Physical Readiness Training to Field Manual 7-22 Physical Readiness Training in fall 2012. TC 3-22.20 can be found under Physical Fitness Files channel in (https://www.us.army.mil/suite/page/346316) USAPFS Portal , (AKO log-in required). For more information, visit the (http://www.army.mil/standto/archive/2010/06/04/) U.S. Army's Stand-To! website.
For more health tips and exercise programs, visit the (http://military-fitness.military.com/) Daily PT.


Navy Command Leadership Option
As the Sept. 30 deadline approaches for the Navy's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response -- Leadership (SAPR-L) training, new completion options are available for command leadership including: (1) registering (https://esams.cnic.navy.mil/esams_gen_2/loginesams.aspx) online and attending one of the MMTT-led Defense Connect Online (DCO) SAPR-L training sessions available; (2) attending a SAPR-L training session conducted by their Immediate Superior in Command (ISIC) who completed the MMTT-led SAPR-L training; or (3) viewing a recorded MMTT-led SAPR-L training session by requesting a video at (mailto:sapr_l_taskforce@navy.mil) sapr_l_taskforce@navy.mil. Additional information can be found at the SAPR L/F training website at (http://www.sapr.navy.mil) www.sapr.navy.mil -- click on the SAPR-L Preparation training link.
For more Navy news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


TRICARE Benefits Explained
Military.com can help clarify many of your TRICARE questions and concerns. You owe it to yourself and your family to find out as much as you can about TRICARE before making any decisions. (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricar ... ESRC=mr.nl) View a complete summary -- The facts, 3 main coverage plans, TRICARE Young Adult, Eligibility and More.
(http://www.military.com/benefits/tricar ... ESRC=mr.nl)


2012 Basic Allowance for Housing Rates
The overall average military Basic Allowance for Housing rates across the country increased over the last year. The 2 percent increase cannot be tied to any single factor. BAH rates are based on the combination of local costs for rent, utilities and renter's insurance for various housing types. Any fluctuation of one or more of those factors in a given location will affect BAH rates for that location. (http://www.military.com/benefits/milita ... ESRC=mr.nl) View the 2012 BAH Rate tables.


PCS Moves to Kessler Restored
Air Force Personnel Center officials announced that permanent change of station and temporary duty reporting has been restored for Airmen and civilians traveling to Keesler Air Force Base, Miss.

Army Studies Virtual Reality PTSD Therapy
A study to see if the use of virtual reality therapy can help servicemembers struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is underway here at Womack Army Medical Center at Ft. Bragg, N.C. by Defense Department and Department of Health and Human Services professionals. The study is designed to show if virtual reality exposure therapy is an effective way to combat the severity and symptoms of PTSD. Over the next two years, professionals are looking to work with around 350 Fort Bragg Soldiers to show scientific proof that the use of virtual reality is a viable option for the treatment of PTSD. For more information on PTSD, visit the National Center for PTSD website at (http://www.ptsd.va.gov/) www.ptsd.va.gov.
(http://www.military.com/benefits/vetera ... rview.html) Find more PTSD Resources on Military.com.


Deal of the Week: Military Save $ Here
Exclusive Military & Gov't Only Discounts up to 50% off retail. Save on Outdoor, Lifestyle & Tactical Gear. We carry Sunglasses, Golf Clubs, Apparel & More! (https://www.govx.com/milcom?utm_source= ... taryreport) Sign-up is Free!


TRICARE Claims Forms
Visit the Military.com Benefits Channel to get a full list of TRICARE Claim forms. We also connect you to a map to locate where to file your claim. (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricar ... ESRC=mr.nl) View all TRICARE Claim forms now.


SGLI too Much? $100k Coverage for $8 a Month
Is SGLI too expensive or do you need additional coverage? Get $100k life insurance protection for as little as $8.00 a month. (http://www.military.com/insurance/?lpid=ad&ESRC=mr.nl) Get Coverage Now.


New GI Bill Stipend for US Territories
The Department of Veterans Affairs has made a major change to the administrative policy regarding the monthly housing allowance for Post-9/11 GI Bill eligible veterans who reside in the U.S. territories (Guam, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, etc). The change, which went into effect on August 3, 2012, means that veterans residing in the U.S. territories will now receive a monthly housing allowance (MHA) based on the Overseas Housing Allowance assigned to the area by the Department of Defense.
Read more on the (http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... ing-rates/) Military Advantage blog.


CAC Card Replacements
Any person who has a 64K or 72K common access card (CAC) must make an appointment at their servicing ID card facility and replace their card. To verify the validity of your card, look on the top line of the reverse side of the CAC. Cards that must be replaced are: Oberthur ID One v5.2 Dual; Oberthur ID One v5.2a Dual; Gemalto GCX4 72K DI; Gemalto Access 64KV2; Oberthur ID One V5.2; and Oberthur ID One V5.2a. CACs that fall into this category must be replaced before the Sept. 30 deadline regardless of the expiration date on the card. Customers are encouraged to logon to the (https://rapids-appointments.dmdc.osd.mil/) online appointment scheduler. Those receiving an email from DMDC directing replacement of their card should make their appointment as soon as possible.
For more on military IDs and benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits) Military.com Benefit Center.


Navy Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and the Navy is using the month as a launch pad to focus on Navy's ongoing suicide prevention efforts. During each week of the month resources will be available to guide discussion on stress navigation and suicide prevention concepts. The weekly concepts to be explored are: building resilience, navigating stress, encouraging bystander intervention to A-C-T (Ask Care Treat), and reducing barriers for seeking support through counseling. The tools and resources are available on (http://www.suicide.navy.mil) www.suicide.navy.mil and (http://www.navynavstress.com) www.navynavstress.com.
For more links to support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse) Military.com Spouse and Family Center.


Warrior-Family Symposium
The Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and the National Defense Industrial Association will host the 2012 Warrior-Family Symposium to honor wounded heroes and their families. The event will be held on Thursday, September 13, 2012 from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. This year's WFS will focus on increasing awareness of our Wounded Warriors' needs and the enhancement and refinement of programs and services that benefit them and their families. Registration for this year's WFS is open. Read more about the event's agenda and register at (http://www.warriorfamilysymposium.com/) www.warriorfamilysymposium.com.
For more links to support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse) Military.com Spouse and Family Center.


New Rules for AF Reservists
Officials are putting new policies and programs in place to mobilize Air Force reservists in response to national disasters and emergencies. This is the first time Title 10, or federal reserve forces from all services have been planned and funded to be mobilized, like their National Guard counterparts, to assist the state governors during a crisis in the United States. The Air Force is working on the last of the policy implementation issues that will afford members to plan ahead, coordinate with their civilian employers, and prepare their families. Once the Department of Defense and the Force Generation Center finalize their system changes, units and reservists will be made ready for this new opportunity to help Americans in need.
For more military news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


Debt Protection for Servicemembers
The Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides debt protection to active duty military members, Reservists, and members of the National Guards to ensure they are not unfairly penalized in their private lives by the challenges of military duty. Section 207 of SCRA mandates that debts incurred prior to entry to active duty must be lowered to no more than 6 percent. SCRA Section 305 governs terminations of both housing and automobile leases. Also, SCRA Section 202 provides for delays in court or administrative proceedings for those serving on active duty. For more information, contact your base legal office or visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/milita ... rview.html) Military.com SCRA overview.


Register for the 2012 MOAA/NDIA Warrior-Family Symposium
Saluting their sacrifice: A decade of challenges and triumphs for our wounded heroes and their families. Sept. 13, 2012 Ronald Reagan building and International Trade Center. Register online with MOAA or call 1-888-503-1193. To learn more visit (http://www.moaa.org/wfs/) www.moaa.org/wfs/


New AF Tactics and Techniques Manual
The Air Force recently released its newest tactics, techniques and procedures publication, AFTTP 3-4.5 Air Advising, which provides Air Force advisors with guidance on how to assist partner nation air forces in building, sustaining and implementing air power capabilities, as well as building aviation enterprises. AFTTP 3-4.5 Air Advising is available for download on the Expeditionary Combat Support TTP repository. For further discussion on TTP development at the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center, read the article published in the (http://www.armedforcesjournal.com/2012/07/10439399) Armed Forces Journal.
For more on military strategy and technology, visit the (http://defensetech.org) Defensetech blog.


Army Contracting Command is Recruiting
Recent college graduates looking for a career in Army contracting should keep their eyes on Armyhire.com for a series of rapid-fire job announcements. The Army Contracting Command (ACC) will be hiring up to 150 recent college graduates to fill entry-level positions at a number of U.S. locations. The jobs will be posted on Armyhire.com, and a number of hiring authorities will be used to make tentative job offers quickly. People interested in applying must have a current copy of their college transcripts and an up-to-date resume at USAJOBS at (http://www.usajobs.gov/) www.usajobs.gov. For more information and to review job postings, visit Armyhire.com at (http://www.armyhire.com/entry-level) www.armyhire.com/entry-level.
For job listings across the nation and civilian job guides and tips, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


Navy PAC Program Moves to Safe Harbor
The Navy Pay and Allowance Continuation (PAC) program was recently realigned with Navy Safe Harbor, the Navy's wounded warrior program. The Navy PAC program allows for the continuation of pay and allowances for up to one year during a servicemember's hospitalization and rehabilitation after incurring a wound, illness, or injury while on duty in a hostile fire area, or while exposed to other hostile actions. Responsibility for PAC has been assigned to Navy Safe Harbor in an effort to streamline the execution of wounded warrior entitlement programs. For more information about the Navy's wounded warrior program, visit the (http://safeharbor.navylive.dodlive.mil) Navy Safe Harbor website or call 877-746-8563.
For more on military pay benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay) Military.com Benefits Center.


24th Annual Navy Counselors Symposium
The 24th Annual Navy Counselors Association (NCA) Professional Development and Training Symposium is scheduled Sept. 24-27 in Memphis, Tenn. Participants will receive training from Navy leadership within the Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education domain on topics including enlisted community management, distribution, force management initiatives and Navy career tools. Registration, transportation, and lodging information can be found on the Navy Counselors Association (NCA) website at (http://www.usnca.org/) www.usnca.org/. For questions regarding registration, call the NCA Customer Service Line at (571) 344-3663.
For more Navy news, visit the (http://www.military.com/daily-news) Military.com News Center.


Employment is Biggest Challenge for Vets
A new survey has found that more than two-thirds of their post-9/11 generation believe that finding a job is the greatest challenge they face in making the transition to civilian life. Among the most striking findings of the recently-released Veterans' Employment Challenges study is that 44 percent of veterans participating in the poll said they were not ready to make the transition to civilian life. The poll was conducted by Prudential Financial in partnership with Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. The report is available for downloading in .PDF format from the (http://news.prudential.com/article_disp ... le_id=6346) Prudential website.
For job listings across the nation and civilian job guides and tips, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


Commissary Coupon Rules Explained
View the (http://paycheck-chronicles.military.com ... ESRC=mr.nl) DeCA Quick Coupon Info, Acceptance and Redemption of Merchandise Coupons pamphlet on Military.com. The rules are in black and white and will guide you to using coupons.
(http://www.military.com/discounts/?ESRC=mr.nl) View exclusive Military Deals and Discounts.


New VA Handbook for Veterans
The 2012 edition of the Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors is now available online. Produced by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the handbook's chapters cover such topics as VA pensions, home loans, medals and records, special veterans groups, and other federal benefits. It also has a listing of VA facilities, plus links to helpful websites and a telephone directory. The handbook is available in English or Spanish on the VA website at (http://www1.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book.asp) www1.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book.asp .
For complete guides to all veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.


New Transition Training for Soldiers
Post-military life for servicemembers presents challenges such as finding jobs and obtaining health care. The Transition Assistance Program (TAP), part of the Army Career and Alumni Program, is set up to provide out-processing Soldiers, veterans and dependents with the necessary skills and realistic expectations for their new, civilian life. Though TAP has been part of the Army for years, it is currently undergoing a revision called Transition GPS that will make it more intensive, involved and in-line with current economic trends. The new initiative, which begins Nov. 21, also makes TAP mandatory for all departing Soldiers. For more information on Transition GPS and the new changes, visit the (http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-off ... and-vetera) White House website.
For job listings across the nation and civilian job guides and tips, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.


TRICARE Benefit Unchanged
The TRICARE benefit will not change now that UnitedHealthcare Military & Veterans will replace TriWest Healthcare Alliance as the TRICARE West Region health care contractor. Beneficiaries currently using the TRICARE civilian health care networks are expected to find that most TriWest providers will also have agreements with UnitedHealthcare. For details and the latest updates about the contract change, visit the TRICARE West Region Transition website at (http://www.tricare.mil/westtransition) www.tricare.mil/westtransition to sign up to receive email notifications with new information . All beneficiaries in the West Region will receive welcome packages with information from UnitedHealthcare well ahead of the April 1, 2013 transition date.
For more on TRICARE, including guides to all TRICARE options, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/tricare) Military.com TRICARE section.


Army to Hold Suicide Stand Down
The U.S. Army will conduct an Army-wide suicide "stand down", scheduled for Sep. 27, as a way to empower leadership to prevent further loss of life due to suicide. The stand down is meant to familiarize all members of the Army family with the health promotion, risk reduction, suicide prevention, and comprehensive Soldier and family fitness resources available in the Army. Although the stand down is just for one day, Morales said training and activities will be conducted throughout September, which is recognized in the Army as Suicide Prevention Month. Efforts will likely continue into October, particularly for the Reserve Component. For more information, visit the (http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/default.asp) Army Suicide Prevention Program website.
For more links to support resources, visit the (http://www.military.com/spouse) Military.com Spouse and Family Center.


Register for the 2012 MOAA/NDIA Warrior-Family Symposium
Saluting their sacrifice: A decade of challenges and triumphs for our wounded heroes and their families. Sept. 13, 2012 Ronald Reagan building and International Trade Center. Register online with MOAA or call 1-888-503-1193. To learn more visit (http://www.moaa.org/wfs/) www.moaa.org/wfs/


Military Families Get Free Tickets to SeaWorld
Anheuser-Busch salutes those who serve through their "Here's to the Heroes" program. Active duty, Reservists, and National Guardsman (and three dependents) can obtain one free admission to any one of the amusements parks: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Sesame Place, Water Country USA, and Adventure Island each calendar year. The military member does not need to be present for dependents to participate in the program. All eligible individuals must register online or at the park to take advantage of the program. Other restrictions apply; some parks are seasonal. (http://www.military.com/discounts/deal- ... ESRC=mr.nl) Get this deal.
(http://www.military.com/discounts/?ESRC=mr.nl) View all military deals and discounts.


The Best-Value Vehicles for 2012
USAA has unveiled its second annual Best Value vehicles list, naming the top 2012 automobiles in 16 categories for consumers looking to get the most bang for their buck. To accompany this year's list, parents of teen drivers can also check out the new Top 10 for Teens vehicle list that focuses on traits parents said they cared about most: reliability, safety and affordable insurance costs. (http://www.military.com/off-duty/autos/ ... ESRC=mr.nl) Visit the Military.com Auto Center for the full vehicle list.


New Driver's License in Mississippi
Mississippi has become the 16th state to honor our veterans with a special driver's license. The new license will have a flag with the word "veteran" imprinted on it. Veterans will have to provide verifying documentation from the Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board before they go to their local driver's license station for the new license. Veterans who want the license before the normal renewal period must pay the replacement fees. For more information, visit the (http://www.vab.ms.gov/DLVeteranDesignation.shtml) Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board website.
For complete guides to all veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.


Thank Our Troops Today
A $10 contribution provides a $50 gift card good at over 18,000 restaurants nationwide to an American Hero. The gift is tax-deductible too. (http://www.thanksabunch.org/milcom/?oid=1010_6) Say "thanks a bunch" today.


Featured Employer KCI Hiring Veterans
KCI is hiring veterans and transitioning servicemembers. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... ESRC=vr.nl) Visit the KCI Veteran Talent Portal to apply for jobs, read success stories, and learn more about a career with KCI.
KCI offers the excitement and challenges of a growing and innovative company in the medical device marketplace of advanced wounded care solutions -- helping to heal patients, restoring them to active, and productive lives. At KCI, we refer to our employees as "Team Members" because we work together to provide the best products, service and outcomes to our customers. Diversity and prior-servicemembers are central to our hiring efforts and we believe success hinges on integrity, motivation and leadership found in U.S. military veterans. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... ESRC=vr.nl) Visit the KCI Veteran Talent Portal Now.


Get Your Military Benefit Guide
The 2012 Military Advantage Benefit Guide Book is packed with updated benefit information. Find answers to all your benefit questions -- (http://www.amazon.com/The-Military-Adva ... 591143934/) Pay, TRICARE, VA Loans, GI Bill, Tuition Assistance, Transition, Family Benefits and More.


Retraining for Unemployed Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs has approved more than 36,000 applications for the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP), a new training and education program for unemployed Veterans to upgrade their skills for in-demand jobs. VA expects to fill all 45,000 available slots for the fiscal year 2012 phase of the program before the Sept. 30 deadline and will continue processing new applications for fiscal year 2013. Potential applicants can learn more about VRAP and apply online at (http://benefits.va.gov/vow/education.htm) benefits.va.gov/vow/education.htm, or call VA toll-free at 1-800-827-1000. Information about the Department of Labor's programs for Veterans is available at (http://www.dol.gov/vets) www.dol.gov/vets. Veterans can also visit the nearly 3,000 One-Stop Career Centers across the nation, listed at (http://www.servicelocator.org/) www.servicelocator.org, for in-person assistance.
(http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... -for-vrap/) Read the full story on the Military Advantage Blog. For job listings across the nation and civilian job guides and tips, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.