Veterans Report - Week of June 24, 2013
Posted: Tue Jun 25, 2013 3:39 pm
Veterans Report - Week of June 24, 2013
DoD Brain Tissue Repository
The Department of Defense established the world's first brain tissue repository to help researchers understand the underlying mechanisms of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in servicemembers. The new repository is part of a military health care system initiative to bring all the resources it can to better understand how to prevent, diagnose and treat traumatic brain injuries. Defense Department researchers will look at the brain tissue samples to characterize the neuropathologic features of TBI in servicemembers. For further information on donation to the brain tissue repository for traumatic brain injury, (mailto:CNRM-TBI@usuhs.edu) email the repository team or call 855-DON-8TBI (855-366-8824).
New Exhibit at the Navy Museum
A new exhibit, "1813 Don't Give Up the Ship" opened at the National Museum of the United States Navy at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. The exhibit features ships' and Sailors' armament as well as posters describing the aide that the Navy rendered the U.S. Army during the Great Lakes battles two centuries ago. The new exhibit centers on that support the Navy gave the Army position and the soldiers who were drafted to fight. Once the museum takes down the exhibition it may never come back because a lot of the armaments are on loan, mostly from private collectors. For more information on the new exhibit, visit the National Museum of the United States Navy website at (http://www.history.navy.mil/branches/org8-1.htm) www.history.navy.mil/branches/org8-1.htm or the (https://www.facebook.com/1813DontGiveUpTheShipExhibit) 1813 Don't Give Up the Ship Facebook page.
SeaWorld, Busch Gardens & More Free for Military
SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment salutes those who serve through their "Waves of Honor" program. Active duty, Reservists, and National Guardsman (and three direct dependents) can obtain one free admission to any one of the amusements parks: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Sesame Place, Water Country USA, and Adventure Island in 2013. (http://www.military.com/discounts/deal- ... rvr0624.nl) Click here to learn more.
Veterans Crisis Line
The Veterans Crisis Line is open 24/7/365 to assist Veterans and family members. Call 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1), by text at 838255, or chat online at (http://www.veteranscrisisline.net) www.veteranscrisisline.net.
Prudential Committed to Hiring Veterans
Start your civilian career with Prudential. As a global diversified technology and industrial leader they can provide endless opportunity and a career path that lets you choose where you want to be. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read More.
Navy Museums Closed on Mondays
To absorb reductions resulting from the announced federal furlough, the U.S. Navy will close the museums it operates one day a week beginning the week of July 8 until further notice. The Navy has made the list of the museums that will be closing on Mondays (http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=74817) available online. The Naval Museum Northwest (Puget Sound Naval Museum, Bremerton, Wash.) will alter their schedule by closing on Fridays. The Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC), which operates the Navy's museums, will close on Mondays during the furlough as well. Before planning to visit, please check museum hours before arriving. For more information and to access the Navy museum websites, visit the (http://www.history.navy.mil/museums/index.html) Naval History and Heritage Command website.
Search over 40,000 Units on Military.com
Connect with your past or present Military Unit on Military.com. Post Messages, find old friends, see Unit History & Photos and more. (http://www.military.com/HomePage/UnitPa ... RC=mrvr.nl) Search over 40,000 Units.
National Veterans Small Business Conference
Registration is now open for the National Veterans Small Business Conference August 6-8, 2013 in St. Louis, sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with other government agencies. For more information and to register online, visit the (http://www.nationalveteransconference.com) National Veterans Small Business Conference website.
Help for Homeowners Event June 28 in Columbia, SC
The U.S. Department of Treasury is putting on a Help for Homeowners Event to connect financially struggling military families with mortgage companies and HUD-approved housing experts. Participants will meet one-on-one with mortgage professionals to talk through their specific situations. The event is Friday, June 28th from 1pm to 8pm at the Columbia Convection Center in Columbia, SC. Parking is free. (http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/get ... fault.aspx) Get more information.
Search over 40,000 Units on Military.com 062413
Connect with your past or present Military Unit on Military.com. Post Messages, find old friends, see Unit History & Photos and more. (http://www.military.com/HomePage/UnitPa ... RC=mrvr.nl) Search over 40,000 Units.
Deal of the Week: Build Your New Wardrobe
Men's Wearhouse has all the essentials you need to look your best as you transition to civilian life. (http://www.menswearhouse.com/webapp/wcs ... xt-_-n-_-n) Get 50% off your job interview suit and more.
Museum Plans D-Day Cruise
The (http://www.nationalww2museum.org) National World War II Museum will host an exclusive, educational travel program aboard Silversea Cruises' luxurious Silver Cloud cruise ship next year to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the invasion of Normandy. The 10-day trip will feature an elite group of renowned historians. The "70th Anniversary of D-Day Cruise" will begin May 30, 2014, in Lisbon. The group will take part in the 70th anniversary ceremonies at the Normandy American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach and will visit the Utah Beach Museum and the Memorial de Caen for special after-hours receptions. Costs for the cruise vary depending on accommodations but include food and beverages, luxurious suite accommodations, lectures and tours. Airfare is not included as part of the cruise package. For more information, visit the National WWII Museum Tours website at (http://www.ww2museumtours.org) www.ww2museumtours.org or call (877) 813-3329, Ext. 257.
June is PTSD Awareness Month
June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Month. Visit the Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD website at (http://www.PTSD.va.gov) www.PTSD.va.gov to learn more about PTSD and explore the options for PTSD treatment and coping with symptoms. Also read the Ten Steps to Raise PTSD Awareness on the (http://www.ptsd.va.gov/about/ptsd-aware ... reness.asp) National Center for PTSD website.
Identity Theft Prevention
Here are some tips to protect military personnel and retirees from identity theft: (1) safeguard vulnerable information like Social Security numbers, passwords, and account numbers in properly secured containers; (2) never recite sensitive information over the phone or send it in an e-mail; (3) sensitive data like ATM and account pin numbers and passwords should be memorized instead of written down; (4) select passwords that offer strong protections against identity theft; (5) use paper shredders to destroy documents; (6) diligently monitor credit reports; (7) keep receipts of purchases and regularly check them against billing statements; and (8) remain in contact with creditors and contact them if bills are not arriving as they should. If identity theft does occur, the FTC offers guidance on its Identity Theft webpage at (http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/fe ... tity-theft) http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/fe ... tity-theft.
Get the 2013 VA Loan Guide
Understand the VA Loan benefit you've earned by downloading the free Miliary.com VA Loan Guide. The PDF guide walks you through the benefits of a VA Loan, eligibility, how to refinance, what forms you'll need, and more. (http://www.military.com/va-loan-guide/i ... rvr0624.nl) Download your free PDF now.
Planning a Wedding? Wedding Day Gift Guide
This is your celebration, and there are many details all wrapped up into a few memorable hours. (http://www.military.com/spouse/military ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read More.
Fully-Developed Claims = Quicker Results
Get a fast decision from the Department of Veterans Affairs. File a fully-developed claim. VA needed a checklist on how to file a digital claim for compensation through its new Fully Developed Claims program (FDC) -- the fastest way to get a decision. Visit the (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/9648/ge ... ped-claim/) VA's VAntage Point Blog to learn more. If you have questions about what is relevant, call VA at 1-800-827-1000 or contact your Veterans Service Officer (VSO).
Online Veterans Health Library
The Online Veterans Health Library is a new tool to help Veterans take charge of their health: the Veterans Health Library. Find information on diseases, conditions, and medications. It's where to go for reliable health information. For more information, visit the (http://www.va.gov/health/NewsFeatures/2 ... ibrary.asp) Online Veterans Health Library.
VA Home Loans
VA Home Loans are more than just buying a home. You can also use the program to refinance existing loans. For more information, read (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/9598/va ... ng-a-home/) VA's VAntage Point Blog and visit the (http://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/) VA Home Loan Program website.
(http://www.military.com/money/home-ownership) Learn more about home ownership and the VA Loan Process at Military.com.
Advice on Providing Long-Term Care
When you think of caregiving, odds are you think of the courageous families who care for our wounded warriors. But, some servicemembers themselves may one day face the challenge of another type of caregiving: helping a family member who is aging, sick, or has a disability and needs full-time care. Holly Petraeus from the Office of Servicemember Affairs recently offered advice to help you prepare for the financial and emotional strain that this responsibility.
(http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... aring-for/) Read Holly Petraeus' full article on the Military Advantage Blog.
CCME - Crossroads in Military Education
The Council of College and Military Educators announced the theme for their 2014 CCME Professional Development Symposium in Savannah, Georgia will be "Crossroads in Military Education: Looking Backward, Moving Forward." Next year's theme will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the original GI Bill which was signed into law by President Franklin Roosevelt in June of 1944. The 2014 CCME Symposium will be held at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center, February 10-13.
(http://www.ccmeonline.org/) Learn more about CCME and their 2014 Symposium.
VA Claims Filing Technology
A new online application from the Department of Veterans Affairs enables disability compensation claims to be processed faster in a more end-to-end electronic environment. By (https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits- ... its.portal) filing electronically at eBenefits, any compensation benefits that are awarded will be effective back to the date the Veteran started entering their claim information in (https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits- ... its.portal) eBenefits. From that initial claim establishment date, each Veteran has up to a year to gather all necessary. For more information about VA benefits, visit the (http://www.benefits.va.gov) Veterans Benefits Administration website. For more information on VA's Transformation, vitis the (http://benefits.va.gov/transformation/) VA's Claims Transformation Plan website.
DoD Brain Tissue Repository
The Department of Defense established the world's first brain tissue repository to help researchers understand the underlying mechanisms of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in servicemembers. The new repository is part of a military health care system initiative to bring all the resources it can to better understand how to prevent, diagnose and treat traumatic brain injuries. Defense Department researchers will look at the brain tissue samples to characterize the neuropathologic features of TBI in servicemembers. For further information on donation to the brain tissue repository for traumatic brain injury, (mailto:CNRM-TBI@usuhs.edu) email the repository team or call 855-DON-8TBI (855-366-8824).
New Exhibit at the Navy Museum
A new exhibit, "1813 Don't Give Up the Ship" opened at the National Museum of the United States Navy at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. The exhibit features ships' and Sailors' armament as well as posters describing the aide that the Navy rendered the U.S. Army during the Great Lakes battles two centuries ago. The new exhibit centers on that support the Navy gave the Army position and the soldiers who were drafted to fight. Once the museum takes down the exhibition it may never come back because a lot of the armaments are on loan, mostly from private collectors. For more information on the new exhibit, visit the National Museum of the United States Navy website at (http://www.history.navy.mil/branches/org8-1.htm) www.history.navy.mil/branches/org8-1.htm or the (https://www.facebook.com/1813DontGiveUpTheShipExhibit) 1813 Don't Give Up the Ship Facebook page.
SeaWorld, Busch Gardens & More Free for Military
SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment salutes those who serve through their "Waves of Honor" program. Active duty, Reservists, and National Guardsman (and three direct dependents) can obtain one free admission to any one of the amusements parks: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Sesame Place, Water Country USA, and Adventure Island in 2013. (http://www.military.com/discounts/deal- ... rvr0624.nl) Click here to learn more.
Veterans Crisis Line
The Veterans Crisis Line is open 24/7/365 to assist Veterans and family members. Call 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1), by text at 838255, or chat online at (http://www.veteranscrisisline.net) www.veteranscrisisline.net.
Prudential Committed to Hiring Veterans
Start your civilian career with Prudential. As a global diversified technology and industrial leader they can provide endless opportunity and a career path that lets you choose where you want to be. (http://www.military.com/jobs-in/employe ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read More.
Navy Museums Closed on Mondays
To absorb reductions resulting from the announced federal furlough, the U.S. Navy will close the museums it operates one day a week beginning the week of July 8 until further notice. The Navy has made the list of the museums that will be closing on Mondays (http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=74817) available online. The Naval Museum Northwest (Puget Sound Naval Museum, Bremerton, Wash.) will alter their schedule by closing on Fridays. The Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC), which operates the Navy's museums, will close on Mondays during the furlough as well. Before planning to visit, please check museum hours before arriving. For more information and to access the Navy museum websites, visit the (http://www.history.navy.mil/museums/index.html) Naval History and Heritage Command website.
Search over 40,000 Units on Military.com
Connect with your past or present Military Unit on Military.com. Post Messages, find old friends, see Unit History & Photos and more. (http://www.military.com/HomePage/UnitPa ... RC=mrvr.nl) Search over 40,000 Units.
National Veterans Small Business Conference
Registration is now open for the National Veterans Small Business Conference August 6-8, 2013 in St. Louis, sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs in connection with other government agencies. For more information and to register online, visit the (http://www.nationalveteransconference.com) National Veterans Small Business Conference website.
Help for Homeowners Event June 28 in Columbia, SC
The U.S. Department of Treasury is putting on a Help for Homeowners Event to connect financially struggling military families with mortgage companies and HUD-approved housing experts. Participants will meet one-on-one with mortgage professionals to talk through their specific situations. The event is Friday, June 28th from 1pm to 8pm at the Columbia Convection Center in Columbia, SC. Parking is free. (http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/get ... fault.aspx) Get more information.
Search over 40,000 Units on Military.com 062413
Connect with your past or present Military Unit on Military.com. Post Messages, find old friends, see Unit History & Photos and more. (http://www.military.com/HomePage/UnitPa ... RC=mrvr.nl) Search over 40,000 Units.
Deal of the Week: Build Your New Wardrobe
Men's Wearhouse has all the essentials you need to look your best as you transition to civilian life. (http://www.menswearhouse.com/webapp/wcs ... xt-_-n-_-n) Get 50% off your job interview suit and more.
Museum Plans D-Day Cruise
The (http://www.nationalww2museum.org) National World War II Museum will host an exclusive, educational travel program aboard Silversea Cruises' luxurious Silver Cloud cruise ship next year to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the invasion of Normandy. The 10-day trip will feature an elite group of renowned historians. The "70th Anniversary of D-Day Cruise" will begin May 30, 2014, in Lisbon. The group will take part in the 70th anniversary ceremonies at the Normandy American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach and will visit the Utah Beach Museum and the Memorial de Caen for special after-hours receptions. Costs for the cruise vary depending on accommodations but include food and beverages, luxurious suite accommodations, lectures and tours. Airfare is not included as part of the cruise package. For more information, visit the National WWII Museum Tours website at (http://www.ww2museumtours.org) www.ww2museumtours.org or call (877) 813-3329, Ext. 257.
June is PTSD Awareness Month
June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Month. Visit the Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD website at (http://www.PTSD.va.gov) www.PTSD.va.gov to learn more about PTSD and explore the options for PTSD treatment and coping with symptoms. Also read the Ten Steps to Raise PTSD Awareness on the (http://www.ptsd.va.gov/about/ptsd-aware ... reness.asp) National Center for PTSD website.
Identity Theft Prevention
Here are some tips to protect military personnel and retirees from identity theft: (1) safeguard vulnerable information like Social Security numbers, passwords, and account numbers in properly secured containers; (2) never recite sensitive information over the phone or send it in an e-mail; (3) sensitive data like ATM and account pin numbers and passwords should be memorized instead of written down; (4) select passwords that offer strong protections against identity theft; (5) use paper shredders to destroy documents; (6) diligently monitor credit reports; (7) keep receipts of purchases and regularly check them against billing statements; and (8) remain in contact with creditors and contact them if bills are not arriving as they should. If identity theft does occur, the FTC offers guidance on its Identity Theft webpage at (http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/fe ... tity-theft) http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/fe ... tity-theft.
Get the 2013 VA Loan Guide
Understand the VA Loan benefit you've earned by downloading the free Miliary.com VA Loan Guide. The PDF guide walks you through the benefits of a VA Loan, eligibility, how to refinance, what forms you'll need, and more. (http://www.military.com/va-loan-guide/i ... rvr0624.nl) Download your free PDF now.
Planning a Wedding? Wedding Day Gift Guide
This is your celebration, and there are many details all wrapped up into a few memorable hours. (http://www.military.com/spouse/military ... RC=mrvr.nl) Read More.
Fully-Developed Claims = Quicker Results
Get a fast decision from the Department of Veterans Affairs. File a fully-developed claim. VA needed a checklist on how to file a digital claim for compensation through its new Fully Developed Claims program (FDC) -- the fastest way to get a decision. Visit the (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/9648/ge ... ped-claim/) VA's VAntage Point Blog to learn more. If you have questions about what is relevant, call VA at 1-800-827-1000 or contact your Veterans Service Officer (VSO).
Online Veterans Health Library
The Online Veterans Health Library is a new tool to help Veterans take charge of their health: the Veterans Health Library. Find information on diseases, conditions, and medications. It's where to go for reliable health information. For more information, visit the (http://www.va.gov/health/NewsFeatures/2 ... ibrary.asp) Online Veterans Health Library.
VA Home Loans
VA Home Loans are more than just buying a home. You can also use the program to refinance existing loans. For more information, read (http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/9598/va ... ng-a-home/) VA's VAntage Point Blog and visit the (http://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/) VA Home Loan Program website.
(http://www.military.com/money/home-ownership) Learn more about home ownership and the VA Loan Process at Military.com.
Advice on Providing Long-Term Care
When you think of caregiving, odds are you think of the courageous families who care for our wounded warriors. But, some servicemembers themselves may one day face the challenge of another type of caregiving: helping a family member who is aging, sick, or has a disability and needs full-time care. Holly Petraeus from the Office of Servicemember Affairs recently offered advice to help you prepare for the financial and emotional strain that this responsibility.
(http://militaryadvantage.military.com/2 ... aring-for/) Read Holly Petraeus' full article on the Military Advantage Blog.
CCME - Crossroads in Military Education
The Council of College and Military Educators announced the theme for their 2014 CCME Professional Development Symposium in Savannah, Georgia will be "Crossroads in Military Education: Looking Backward, Moving Forward." Next year's theme will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the original GI Bill which was signed into law by President Franklin Roosevelt in June of 1944. The 2014 CCME Symposium will be held at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center, February 10-13.
(http://www.ccmeonline.org/) Learn more about CCME and their 2014 Symposium.
VA Claims Filing Technology
A new online application from the Department of Veterans Affairs enables disability compensation claims to be processed faster in a more end-to-end electronic environment. By (https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits- ... its.portal) filing electronically at eBenefits, any compensation benefits that are awarded will be effective back to the date the Veteran started entering their claim information in (https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits- ... its.portal) eBenefits. From that initial claim establishment date, each Veteran has up to a year to gather all necessary. For more information about VA benefits, visit the (http://www.benefits.va.gov) Veterans Benefits Administration website. For more information on VA's Transformation, vitis the (http://benefits.va.gov/transformation/) VA's Claims Transformation Plan website.