Veterans Report - Week of February 25, 2013
Posted: Mon Feb 25, 2013 6:45 pm
Veterans Report - Week of February 25, 2013
Buddy Finder: Reconnect with Old Military Friends
The Military.com Buddy Finder allows you to search over 20 million records to locate old military friends. Search by name, service, pay grade, age, installation, school, state or employer. (http://www.military.com/buddy-finder/?ESRC=mrvr0225.nl) Reconnect now.
$400k Coverage: As Low as $26 a Month
Is VGLI too much for your family? Find low cost alternatives designed with your military family in mind. (http://www.military.com/insurance/?lpid ... =vr0225.nl) Get $400k protection starting at less than $1 a day.
Korean War Commemoration
Many observances will take place this year to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Korean War including the Korean War Veterans Association Reunion, which will take place in Arlington, Va., July 24-28, 2013. (http://afr-reg.com/kwva2013/) Register online for the convention. The Department of Defense (DoD) 60th Anniversary Commemoration Committee (DoDKOR60) has been working diligently for the past three years to make this 60th anniversary observance an event to remember. For more information on the anniversary and upcoming events visit the Korean War 60th Anniversary website at (http://www.koreanwar60.com/) www.koreanwar60.com, or the Korean War Veterans Association website at (http://www.kwva.org/) www.kwva.org.
For historical footage from the Korean War, visit the (http://www.military.com/video/search?vsk=korean-war) Military.com Video section.
Scholarships for Those Left Behind
The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation provides college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation's vision is that every such child can have a debt-free college education. TO date the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation has given over 300 scholarships totaling over $4.6 million. Every dollar donated to the foundation goes directly to children in need. For more information, visit the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation website at (http://fallenpatriots.org/) fallenpatriots.org.
For more guides on military education benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/education) Military.com Education Center.
Library Showing Rare WWII Cartoons
The rare Private Snafu films were created to teach World War II soldiers with low literacy skills what happens if you fail to follow military protocol. The films were never intended to be seen by the general public. But on March 1, 2013, you can see them in their original 16mm format at the Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library in Indianapolis, Indiana. The character of Private Snafu was created by director Frank Capra (It's a Wonderful Life, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington) and voiced by the legendary Mel Blanc (the voice of Bugs Bunny). Many episodes were written by Theodore "Dr. Seuss" Geisel. For more information, visit the (http://www.vonnegutlibrary.org/) Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library website.
For more on military-related entertainment news, visit the (http://www.military.com/off-duty) Military.com Off-duty Center.
Preparing for the Worst Case
If you were to die, are your important documents easily accessible, and does somebody know where to find them? Here are some steps to consider: (1) have your will easily accessible; (2) discuss with someone where you would like to be buried, what to do with your car, furniture and the rest of your possessions; (3) let someone know if you have life insurance and what type; (4) make sure your Service Group Life Insurance (SGLI) or Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI) is updated regularly to reflect the desired beneficiaries; (5) prepare and keep in a safe place a list of passwords to your computer and online accounts, so others can access your digital documents even when they do not share your computer on a regular basis; (6) talk about your death and wishes with those closest to you; and (7) strive to get your things in order and plan ahead for those you love.
For more life insurance programs and options, visit the (http://www.military.com/money/insurance) Military.com Life Insurance section.
Small Businesses Face Challenges
Small businesses owned by service-disabled veterans and other veterans are supposed receive preferences in qualifying for government contracts, but glitches in the Department of Veterans Affairs' system for verifying their qualifications are holding back the program. The VA is required to give contracting preference to service-disabled and other veteran-owned small businesses, but it also needs to verify the ownership and control of the businesses to confirm their eligibility. However, the planning and data system for a verification program used by the VA needs improvement, according to a (http://www.gao.gov/assets/660/651281.pdf) new report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The report is available on the (http://www.gao.gov/assets/660/651281.pdf) GAO website.
For more on veteran employment, job postings, and job hunting tips, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.
TRICARE Prime Rollback
Beginning in Fiscal Year 2013, managed care networks operating beyond 40 miles of military treatment facilities or base closure sites will be halted under next-generation TRICARE support contracts. The change, to impact 171,000 beneficiaries, is intended to cut TRICARE costs for taxpayers. The TRICARE Management Activity has a new online tool for retirees under age 65 and surviving spouses to verify if their Prime network will end Oct. 1, forcing them to use TRICARE Standard. (http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... -rollback/) Read the Military Advantage to get the whole story.
Report Suggests Gulf War Syndrome "Cover-up"
The Institute of Medicine recently reported that preliminary data suggests that veterans of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq suffer from the same disease -- commonly called Gulf War Syndrome or Illness -- that has plagued veterans of Desert Storm for over two decades. The Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans (RAC) has also released a report that has accused members of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs of covering up the true nature and causes of illnesses that medical scientists have traced to wartime exposures -- including neurotoxins, depleted uranium, and microbes, among others. The RAC report focuses on "a number of individuals wedded to the past, who have somehow imposed their will on the Department," recommending that these actions be investigated. For more details, see (http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/02/14/v ... -syndrome/) this article.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Furloughs to Hit DoD Hard
If Congress fails to stop $46 billion in indiscriminate defense budget cuts set for March 1, most of the 800,000 Department of Defense civilian employees will face shortened workweeks, their pay cut by 20 percent from late April through the end of FY2013. The furloughs, along with the other planned cuts, will impact overall readiness. (http://www.military.com/benefits/2013/0 ... lback.html) Read this week's 'Military Update' for more details.
Navy Online Game Continues
People have been collaborating online in a war game called Massive Multiplayer Online War Game Leveraging the Internet (em2 MMOWGLI), which is designed to help the Navy better understand the electromagnetic environment. The last phase of the online war game, "Change Our Paradigm: Tactical Employment of EM Weapons," takes place March 4-10, 2013. New players can (https://mmowgli.nps.edu/em2) register online for the next two phases. For more information, visit the (https://www.nwdc.navy.mil/ncoi/default.aspx) Navy Center for Innovation website.
For more Navy news, visit the (http://www.military.com/news) Military.com News Center.
VA Launches Center
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is launching the VA Center for Innovation (VACI). Launched in 2010, the VA Innovation Initiative (VAi2) established a portfolio of more than 120 innovation projects that help VA identify, test, and evaluate promising solutions that enhance the accessibility and quality of care and services delivered to veterans. As a permanent part of the department, VACI, which will be the new name for VAi2, will add several new programs. For more information about VACI, visit the new VA Center for Innovation (VACI) website at (http://www.innovation.va.gov/) www.innovation.va.gov.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Flu Self-Assessment Tool
Do you think you might be coming down with a cold or the flu? Should you stay home or go to work? Perhaps schedule an appointment with your doctor? Get answers to your questions with (http://www.publichealth.va.gov/apps/fluassessment/) VA's Influenza Self Assessment Tool.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Benefits of a VA Loan in Today's Market
Contrary to what many Americans think, it's a very good time for servicemembers to refinance or purchase a home. With mortgage rates continuing to hover at all-time lows and many homes selling at significantly discounted prices, (http://www.military.com/money/va-loans/ ... RC=mrvr.nl) it's possible for those with good credit and income to purchase a great home.
SEAL Survival Guide: Fighting Tips
Former Navy SEAL Cade Courtley has some tips on handling yourself in a fight. Violence of action means the unrestricted use of speed, strength, surprise, and aggression to achieve total dominance against your enemy; any fighting technique is useless unless you first totally commit to violence of action. Don't be afraid to hit first, and when you do, hit hard. Remember, you are fighting because this is the best and only option. Pull the trigger -- because you are in a battle for your life! (http://www.military.com/special-operations?ESRC=mrvr.nl) Read the full article.
DoD Announces New Medal
The Department of Defense has approved the new Distinguished Warfare Medal, which is designed to recognize servicemembers directly affecting combat operations who may not even be on the same continent as the action. (One example could be the work of an unmanned aerial vehicle operator who could be operating a system over Afghanistan while based in the United States.) The new medal cannot be awarded for acts of battlefield valor and cannot be used as an end-of-tour award. The Distinguished Warfare Medal will be below the Distinguished Flying Cross, and will be limited to achievements that are truly extraordinary. Award criteria will be incorporated into the next revision of DOD Manual 1348.33-V3, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards, Volume 3.
(http://www.military.com/daily-news/2013 ... lower.html) Learn how veterans groups are reacting to this new medal.
VA Seeks Women's Stories
In honor of Women's History Month, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) needs your help putting together a tribute honoring women veterans. If you are a woman veteran, please send VA your photo and a story (between 200-500 words) about your time in the military. If you have not served but know a woman who has, you can write about her experience. The selected stories will appear on VA's VAntage Point blog throughout the month of March. All information must be e-mailed to (mailto:newmedia@va.gov) newmedia@va.gov by February 28, 2013. For more information, read VA's (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/8783/wo ... -veterans/) VAntage Point Blog.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
VA's Space-Reduction Initiative
In response to the presidential directive to eliminate wasteful spending on federal real estate, the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office is reducing space used. The reduction will save the taxpayer approximately $60 million over the next ten years and lead to increased telework opportunities within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). For more information, read the (http://www.va.gov/opa/vadocs/Space-Redu ... iative.pdf) VA booklet.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Manhattan VA Medical Center to Reopen
After taking damage in the floods following Hurricane Sandy, the Manhattan VA Medical Center will reopen its outpatient clinics in March, 2013. To learn more, read VA's (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/8754/ma ... g-in-march) VAntage Point Blog. Be sure to get timely updates on the Manhattan VA Medical Center (http://www.facebook.com/VANYHarbor) Facebook and (http://www.twitter.com/VANYHarbor) Twitter pages.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Bankers Is Looking for Veteran Talent
With over 200 Branch Sales offices across the country, Bankers Life and Casualty has more than 4,800 agents who live and work in the communities they serve. At Bankers, we offer more than just a job; we offer a challenging and rewarding sales career! Successful Agents come from all backgrounds, are supported by nationally recognized training, and operate with (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl) a level of service unmatched in the insurance industry since 1879.
(http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl)
Buddy Finder: Reconnect with Old Military Friends
The Military.com Buddy Finder allows you to search over 20 million records to locate old military friends. Search by name, service, pay grade, age, installation, school, state or employer. (http://www.military.com/buddy-finder/?ESRC=mrvr0225.nl) Reconnect now.
$400k Coverage: As Low as $26 a Month
Is VGLI too much for your family? Find low cost alternatives designed with your military family in mind. (http://www.military.com/insurance/?lpid ... =vr0225.nl) Get $400k protection starting at less than $1 a day.
Korean War Commemoration
Many observances will take place this year to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Korean War including the Korean War Veterans Association Reunion, which will take place in Arlington, Va., July 24-28, 2013. (http://afr-reg.com/kwva2013/) Register online for the convention. The Department of Defense (DoD) 60th Anniversary Commemoration Committee (DoDKOR60) has been working diligently for the past three years to make this 60th anniversary observance an event to remember. For more information on the anniversary and upcoming events visit the Korean War 60th Anniversary website at (http://www.koreanwar60.com/) www.koreanwar60.com, or the Korean War Veterans Association website at (http://www.kwva.org/) www.kwva.org.
For historical footage from the Korean War, visit the (http://www.military.com/video/search?vsk=korean-war) Military.com Video section.
Scholarships for Those Left Behind
The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation provides college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation's vision is that every such child can have a debt-free college education. TO date the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation has given over 300 scholarships totaling over $4.6 million. Every dollar donated to the foundation goes directly to children in need. For more information, visit the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation website at (http://fallenpatriots.org/) fallenpatriots.org.
For more guides on military education benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/education) Military.com Education Center.
Library Showing Rare WWII Cartoons
The rare Private Snafu films were created to teach World War II soldiers with low literacy skills what happens if you fail to follow military protocol. The films were never intended to be seen by the general public. But on March 1, 2013, you can see them in their original 16mm format at the Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library in Indianapolis, Indiana. The character of Private Snafu was created by director Frank Capra (It's a Wonderful Life, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington) and voiced by the legendary Mel Blanc (the voice of Bugs Bunny). Many episodes were written by Theodore "Dr. Seuss" Geisel. For more information, visit the (http://www.vonnegutlibrary.org/) Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library website.
For more on military-related entertainment news, visit the (http://www.military.com/off-duty) Military.com Off-duty Center.
Preparing for the Worst Case
If you were to die, are your important documents easily accessible, and does somebody know where to find them? Here are some steps to consider: (1) have your will easily accessible; (2) discuss with someone where you would like to be buried, what to do with your car, furniture and the rest of your possessions; (3) let someone know if you have life insurance and what type; (4) make sure your Service Group Life Insurance (SGLI) or Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI) is updated regularly to reflect the desired beneficiaries; (5) prepare and keep in a safe place a list of passwords to your computer and online accounts, so others can access your digital documents even when they do not share your computer on a regular basis; (6) talk about your death and wishes with those closest to you; and (7) strive to get your things in order and plan ahead for those you love.
For more life insurance programs and options, visit the (http://www.military.com/money/insurance) Military.com Life Insurance section.
Small Businesses Face Challenges
Small businesses owned by service-disabled veterans and other veterans are supposed receive preferences in qualifying for government contracts, but glitches in the Department of Veterans Affairs' system for verifying their qualifications are holding back the program. The VA is required to give contracting preference to service-disabled and other veteran-owned small businesses, but it also needs to verify the ownership and control of the businesses to confirm their eligibility. However, the planning and data system for a verification program used by the VA needs improvement, according to a (http://www.gao.gov/assets/660/651281.pdf) new report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The report is available on the (http://www.gao.gov/assets/660/651281.pdf) GAO website.
For more on veteran employment, job postings, and job hunting tips, visit the (http://www.military.com/veteran-jobs) Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.
TRICARE Prime Rollback
Beginning in Fiscal Year 2013, managed care networks operating beyond 40 miles of military treatment facilities or base closure sites will be halted under next-generation TRICARE support contracts. The change, to impact 171,000 beneficiaries, is intended to cut TRICARE costs for taxpayers. The TRICARE Management Activity has a new online tool for retirees under age 65 and surviving spouses to verify if their Prime network will end Oct. 1, forcing them to use TRICARE Standard. (http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... -rollback/) Read the Military Advantage to get the whole story.
Report Suggests Gulf War Syndrome "Cover-up"
The Institute of Medicine recently reported that preliminary data suggests that veterans of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq suffer from the same disease -- commonly called Gulf War Syndrome or Illness -- that has plagued veterans of Desert Storm for over two decades. The Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans (RAC) has also released a report that has accused members of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs of covering up the true nature and causes of illnesses that medical scientists have traced to wartime exposures -- including neurotoxins, depleted uranium, and microbes, among others. The RAC report focuses on "a number of individuals wedded to the past, who have somehow imposed their will on the Department," recommending that these actions be investigated. For more details, see (http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/02/14/v ... -syndrome/) this article.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Furloughs to Hit DoD Hard
If Congress fails to stop $46 billion in indiscriminate defense budget cuts set for March 1, most of the 800,000 Department of Defense civilian employees will face shortened workweeks, their pay cut by 20 percent from late April through the end of FY2013. The furloughs, along with the other planned cuts, will impact overall readiness. (http://www.military.com/benefits/2013/0 ... lback.html) Read this week's 'Military Update' for more details.
Navy Online Game Continues
People have been collaborating online in a war game called Massive Multiplayer Online War Game Leveraging the Internet (em2 MMOWGLI), which is designed to help the Navy better understand the electromagnetic environment. The last phase of the online war game, "Change Our Paradigm: Tactical Employment of EM Weapons," takes place March 4-10, 2013. New players can (https://mmowgli.nps.edu/em2) register online for the next two phases. For more information, visit the (https://www.nwdc.navy.mil/ncoi/default.aspx) Navy Center for Innovation website.
For more Navy news, visit the (http://www.military.com/news) Military.com News Center.
VA Launches Center
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is launching the VA Center for Innovation (VACI). Launched in 2010, the VA Innovation Initiative (VAi2) established a portfolio of more than 120 innovation projects that help VA identify, test, and evaluate promising solutions that enhance the accessibility and quality of care and services delivered to veterans. As a permanent part of the department, VACI, which will be the new name for VAi2, will add several new programs. For more information about VACI, visit the new VA Center for Innovation (VACI) website at (http://www.innovation.va.gov/) www.innovation.va.gov.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Flu Self-Assessment Tool
Do you think you might be coming down with a cold or the flu? Should you stay home or go to work? Perhaps schedule an appointment with your doctor? Get answers to your questions with (http://www.publichealth.va.gov/apps/fluassessment/) VA's Influenza Self Assessment Tool.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Benefits of a VA Loan in Today's Market
Contrary to what many Americans think, it's a very good time for servicemembers to refinance or purchase a home. With mortgage rates continuing to hover at all-time lows and many homes selling at significantly discounted prices, (http://www.military.com/money/va-loans/ ... RC=mrvr.nl) it's possible for those with good credit and income to purchase a great home.
SEAL Survival Guide: Fighting Tips
Former Navy SEAL Cade Courtley has some tips on handling yourself in a fight. Violence of action means the unrestricted use of speed, strength, surprise, and aggression to achieve total dominance against your enemy; any fighting technique is useless unless you first totally commit to violence of action. Don't be afraid to hit first, and when you do, hit hard. Remember, you are fighting because this is the best and only option. Pull the trigger -- because you are in a battle for your life! (http://www.military.com/special-operations?ESRC=mrvr.nl) Read the full article.
DoD Announces New Medal
The Department of Defense has approved the new Distinguished Warfare Medal, which is designed to recognize servicemembers directly affecting combat operations who may not even be on the same continent as the action. (One example could be the work of an unmanned aerial vehicle operator who could be operating a system over Afghanistan while based in the United States.) The new medal cannot be awarded for acts of battlefield valor and cannot be used as an end-of-tour award. The Distinguished Warfare Medal will be below the Distinguished Flying Cross, and will be limited to achievements that are truly extraordinary. Award criteria will be incorporated into the next revision of DOD Manual 1348.33-V3, Manual of Military Decorations and Awards, Volume 3.
(http://www.military.com/daily-news/2013 ... lower.html) Learn how veterans groups are reacting to this new medal.
VA Seeks Women's Stories
In honor of Women's History Month, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) needs your help putting together a tribute honoring women veterans. If you are a woman veteran, please send VA your photo and a story (between 200-500 words) about your time in the military. If you have not served but know a woman who has, you can write about her experience. The selected stories will appear on VA's VAntage Point blog throughout the month of March. All information must be e-mailed to (mailto:newmedia@va.gov) newmedia@va.gov by February 28, 2013. For more information, read VA's (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/8783/wo ... -veterans/) VAntage Point Blog.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
VA's Space-Reduction Initiative
In response to the presidential directive to eliminate wasteful spending on federal real estate, the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office is reducing space used. The reduction will save the taxpayer approximately $60 million over the next ten years and lead to increased telework opportunities within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). For more information, read the (http://www.va.gov/opa/vadocs/Space-Redu ... iative.pdf) VA booklet.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Manhattan VA Medical Center to Reopen
After taking damage in the floods following Hurricane Sandy, the Manhattan VA Medical Center will reopen its outpatient clinics in March, 2013. To learn more, read VA's (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/8754/ma ... g-in-march) VAntage Point Blog. Be sure to get timely updates on the Manhattan VA Medical Center (http://www.facebook.com/VANYHarbor) Facebook and (http://www.twitter.com/VANYHarbor) Twitter pages.
For more updates on veterans benefits, visit the (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits) Military.com Benefits Center.
Bankers Is Looking for Veteran Talent
With over 200 Branch Sales offices across the country, Bankers Life and Casualty has more than 4,800 agents who live and work in the communities they serve. At Bankers, we offer more than just a job; we offer a challenging and rewarding sales career! Successful Agents come from all backgrounds, are supported by nationally recognized training, and operate with (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl) a level of service unmatched in the insurance industry since 1879.
(http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl)