Veterans Report: Print and Post Week of September 22, 2008
Economic Stimulus Pay Ends in October
If you do not normally file a federal tax return but must file one this year solely to claim your economic stimulus payment, you have until Oct. 15, 2008 to file in order to ensure that you receive your economic stimulus payment. It will generally take a minimum of eight weeks after you file your return to get your stimulus payment. For more information, visit the (http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=179203,00.html) Internal Revenue Service's Economic Stimulus Payment webpage.
Bill to Extend Autism Benefit for Retired
The "Military Family Autism Equality Act," introduced in the House, provides retired military families with autistic children the same health care benefit as families of active duty servicemembers with children suffering from autism. Active duty servicemembers with an autistic child have access to a benefit through TRICARE that provides $2500 a month for Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), a proven treatment for the symptoms of Autism. This bill would extend the same autism benefits to all military families, whether active or retired. (http://www.military.com/news/article/bill-to-extend-autism-benefit-for-retired.html) Read the full article on Military.com.
(http://capwiz.com/military/issues/alert/?alertid=11949886&type=CO) How do you feel about this bill? Let your public officials know how you feel!
New Service for Wounded Warriors
The Military OneSource service established a Wounded Warrior Resource Center telephone number and e-mail address for servicemembers and their families if they have concerns or other difficulties during their recovery process. Servicemembers and their family members and caregivers can now call (800) 342-9647 or e-mail (wwrc@militaryonesource.com) wwrc@militaryonesource.com 24/7 to request support from specially-trained consultants. Assistance provided by the resource center will not replace the specialized wounded warrior programs established by each of the military services, but it will offer another avenue of assistance for military facilities, health care services, and/or benefits information.
To find career resources for the severely injured, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/support) Severely Injured Career Center.
American Legion Fund Assists Hurricane Victims
The American Legion or Sons of The American Legion members affected by Hurricane Ike and Gustav are encouraged to apply for National Emergency Fund (NEF) grants through their post, district, department or national headquarters if they were displaced or evacuated. NEF grants are intended to cover temporary emergency needs such as temporary lodging, food, water, diapers, clothes and other needs.
The National Emergency Fund has awarded more than $6.5 million in grants since it was created in 1989 after Hurricane Hugo and an earthquake in San Francisco. Members of The American Legion and the Sons of the American Legion can receive up to $1,500. American Legion posts that have been damaged by the hurricane can receive a grant up to $5,000. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.military.com/news/article/September-2008/american-legions-national-emergency-fund-assists.html?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_americanlegion) Learn more on Military.com.
Host or Attend a Military Garage Sale
Military.com Classifieds connects the military community with local garage sales. You can search for local sales or host your own. When you're done, the Goodwill will come and pick up what is not sold. It's a great way to earn extra cash, help out the military community and donate to the Goodwill. Find out more about (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.oodle.military.com/x/garagesales&code=vr_092208_garagesale) Garage Sale Days.
Military.com Classifieds: Get Tickets to the Game
Shop Military.com Classifieds to find tickets to local football, baseball, basketball games and more. Country music or metal fan? You can also find deals on concert tickets. Just (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.oodle.military.com//sale/tickets/sports/ &code=vr_092208_oodle) enter your location to find venues near you.
Earn Money Selling Thru Classifieds
Sell stuff to other servicemembers and veterans - cars, motorcycles, gear, tickets, collectibles and more. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.oodle.military.com/?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_postclassifieds) Post ads for free thru Military.com Classifieds.
Veteran's Voter Registration Bill Passes House
Hundreds of thousands of veterans would have widespread and direct access to voter registration services through Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offices under a landmark bill that was passed by the House of Representatives yesterday, the Veterans Voting Support Act (H.R. 6625), introduced by Rep. Robert Brady. A companion bill sponsored by Senators Diane Feinstein and John Kerry (S. 3308) may be acted on by the Senate in coming days. The House and Senate bills would create new opportunities for the nation's 25 million veterans to register to vote at facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
(http://capwiz.com/military/dbq/officials/) How do you feel about this action? Let your public officials know how you feel!
Featured Job: Transportation Security Officer Needed
Want a career in the aviation security field that provides you the opportunity to defend & protect your nation's transportation systems so you and your family can travel safely? Then a (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.tsajobs.com&code=vr_092208_job) career with the TSA is for you!
VA to Open Rural Clinics
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will open 10 new Rural Outreach Clinics by 2009 for thousands of veterans living in rural areas. The clinics will provide primary care services, case management and mental health services. Each outreach clinic will be part of a VA network, maintaining VA's quality standards and access to larger VA facilities for specialized needs. The 10 new clinics include a facility recently put in operation in Aroostook County, Maine. Scheduled to begin operation this October are facilities in Houston County, Ga.; Juneau County, Alaska; and Wasco County, Ore. Clinics to be operational by August 2009 are in Winnemucca, Nev.; Yreka, Calif.; Utuado, Puerto Rico; Lagrange, Texas; Montezuma Creek, Utah; and Manistique, Mich.
VA Grant for Illinois Veterans' Home
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has awarded a grant worth $295,100 for improvements at the state-run Illinois Manteno Veterans Home. VA's grant will cover 65 percent of the total cost of the project. Overall cost for a nurse-call system replacement at the home in Manteno is expected to be $454,000. The Manteno Veterans Home is located on a 122-acre campus, comprised of four major nursing care units and two ancillary service and support buildings. With a total capacity of 352 beds, the Manteno home offers a broad and diverse range of programs and services to eligible veterans. For more information on the Illinois Manteno Veterans Home, visit the (http://www.veterans.illinois.gov/homes/homes.htm#Manteno) Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs website or call (815) 468-6581.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
SpouseBuzz Live is Coming to San Antonio 09-22-08
Deal of the Week: $20 off a weekly rental with Avis
Get $20 off a (http://www.avis.com/AvisWeb/html/bridge/corp/coupons/20off.html?name=Military.com&awd=A555099&SEG_ID=21710&coupon=MUCA044&logo=A555099.gif) weekly rental when you use coupon MUCA044. Provide AWD # A555099 to receive your discount of up to 25% off in addition to your coupon savings. Subject to complete terms and conditions.
Grant for Colorado Veterans Home
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) awarded a grant of up to $5.2 million for an upgrade the resident support and activity areas of the Colorado State Veterans Center at Homelake. The estimated total cost of the project is $7.9 million, with VA's grant totaling 65 percent of the overall cost. Colorado's Office of State and Veterans Nursing Homes will construct life safety improvements to the residential domiciliary cottages, implement energy-related improvements on the campus and complete foundation stabilization of the historic chapel building. For more information about the state's veterans homes and Colorado services for veterans, visit the (http://www.dmva.state.co.us/page/home) Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
Your VA Home Loan is a Safe, Secure Benefit
Your military family may feel uncertain about the mortgage industry, and one of the best ways you can protect your financial future is to lock in a low interest rate. The VA Loan Benefit is worth up to $417,000 and can help you refinance during these tough economic times. Use your benefit to lower your monthly payments, get out of credit card debt, or pay off a second mortgage. (https://secure.military.com/leads/VALoanNew/Step1.jsp?ESRC=vr.nl) Connect with lenders today and keep your family's financial future protected.
Get Credit for Your Military Experience
In the world today employers are looking for those holding a degree - AND certifications, AND experience — you stand a better chance if you have all three. For those who want to finish your schooling, and don't want to start over again, there's good news; it's called the Credit for Life Experience program - also known as a Prior Learning Assessment. Many colleges and universities now offer these programs, giving servicemembers the ability to turn their experience, college courses, military schools and training into viable college credits. (http://education.military.com/timesaving-programs/get-credit-for-your-life-experience?ESRC=vr.nl) Find out more information here.
The first step in finishing your degree is to find a school that matches your career goals and education needs. Military.com can connect you with Military-Friendly schools by filling out a simple form. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://edu.military.com/gibill?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_creditforservice) Get started now.
SpouseBuzz Live is Coming to San Antonio
All Military Spouses are invited to attend SpouseBuzz Live in San Antonio on October 18th. The event will feature discussion panels, fellowship and fun surprises. It is a day to celebrate you, the military spouse. SpouseBuzz Live will be located at the Omni San Antonio Hotel and activities will run from 9:15am to 3pm. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.nationalcareerfairs.com/spouse_buzz/details/TX/San_Antonio/October/18/2008/?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_sbl) See the full schedule and register today.
Suicide Prevention Hotline
Suicide is the 11th most frequent cause of death in the U.S. - someone dies from suicide every 16 minutes. Suicidal ideas and attempts to harm oneself are the result of problems that may seem like they cannot be fixed. Seek professional help - call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-TALK, and indicate you are a veteran. You will be immediately connected to VA suicide prevention and mental health professionals. Or contact your local (http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp?isFlash=1) VA Medical Center or (http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/vetcenter_flsh.asp?) Vet Center today. For more information, visit the (http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/) Department of Veterans' Affairs Suicide Prevention webpage.
Panel Completes Report on Suicide Prevention
The five-member Blue Ribbon Work Group on Suicide Prevention created by Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake in May issued its draft report, which includes recommendations that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) (1) design a study that will identify suicide risk among veterans; (2) improve its screening for suicide among veterans with depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); (3) devise a policy for protecting the confidential records of VA patients who may also be treated by the military's health care system; (4) increase research about suicide prevention; and (5) increase training for VA chaplains about the warning signs of suicide. The entire report is (http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/MENTALHEALTH/suicide_prevention/Blue_Ribbon_Report-FINAL_June-30-08.pdf) available in PDF format.
(http://www.military.com/news/stories/ptsd-news.html) More information and resources on PTSD.
Senate Votes to Repeal Widows' Offset
By a 94-to-2 vote, the Senate for a fourth straight year agreed to repeal a law that bans "concurrent receipt" for military surviving spouses. The intent is to end reduced annuities under the military (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits/survivor-benefit-plan-explained) Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) when a surviving spouse opts to draw (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits/dependency-and-indemnity-compensation) Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) from the Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, (http://www.military.com/opinion/0,15202,175244,00.html) read the article on the Military.com website.
Veterans Day Teacher Guide Available
The 2008 Veterans Day teacher resource guide is now available. The guide includes information on the history and meaning of Veterans Day, youth volunteer opportunities, facts and figures, and a classroom activity guide. There's even a coloring book, maze and word scramble game for kids. The guide, along with a Veterans Day poster, is being distributed on CD-ROM to principals at 118,000 schools nationwide. To view or download your own copy of the guide, visit the Resources section of the (http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/index.asp) Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) Veterans Day website.
New Report on Post-Deployment Health Issued
A new report issued earlier this month by the Government Accounting Office (GAO) has found several problems with Department of Defense (DoD) oversight of the post-deployment health reassessment (PDHRA) and that the Department is unable to determine whether servicemembers are completing their reassessments. This report noted that while DoD agreed to the recommendations in the GAO's earlier, (http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d07831.pdf) June 2007 report, the Department failed to incorporate those recommendations into its oversight practices. In response, DoD has concurred with some of GAO's recommendation, but also suggested that oversight is beyond the scope of the quality assurance programs. (http://www.military.com/news/article/dod-failing-to-monitor-returning-troops.html) Read the full article on Military.com.
To find more deployment news and resources, visit (http://www.military.com/deployment) The Deployment Center.
[John K. Matyi] Thank you for your support for our Military and veterans of all of our Military services.
If you do not normally file a federal tax return but must file one this year solely to claim your economic stimulus payment, you have until Oct. 15, 2008 to file in order to ensure that you receive your economic stimulus payment. It will generally take a minimum of eight weeks after you file your return to get your stimulus payment. For more information, visit the (http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=179203,00.html) Internal Revenue Service's Economic Stimulus Payment webpage.
Bill to Extend Autism Benefit for Retired
The "Military Family Autism Equality Act," introduced in the House, provides retired military families with autistic children the same health care benefit as families of active duty servicemembers with children suffering from autism. Active duty servicemembers with an autistic child have access to a benefit through TRICARE that provides $2500 a month for Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), a proven treatment for the symptoms of Autism. This bill would extend the same autism benefits to all military families, whether active or retired. (http://www.military.com/news/article/bill-to-extend-autism-benefit-for-retired.html) Read the full article on Military.com.
(http://capwiz.com/military/issues/alert/?alertid=11949886&type=CO) How do you feel about this bill? Let your public officials know how you feel!
New Service for Wounded Warriors
The Military OneSource service established a Wounded Warrior Resource Center telephone number and e-mail address for servicemembers and their families if they have concerns or other difficulties during their recovery process. Servicemembers and their family members and caregivers can now call (800) 342-9647 or e-mail (wwrc@militaryonesource.com) wwrc@militaryonesource.com 24/7 to request support from specially-trained consultants. Assistance provided by the resource center will not replace the specialized wounded warrior programs established by each of the military services, but it will offer another avenue of assistance for military facilities, health care services, and/or benefits information.
To find career resources for the severely injured, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/support) Severely Injured Career Center.
American Legion Fund Assists Hurricane Victims
The American Legion or Sons of The American Legion members affected by Hurricane Ike and Gustav are encouraged to apply for National Emergency Fund (NEF) grants through their post, district, department or national headquarters if they were displaced or evacuated. NEF grants are intended to cover temporary emergency needs such as temporary lodging, food, water, diapers, clothes and other needs.
The National Emergency Fund has awarded more than $6.5 million in grants since it was created in 1989 after Hurricane Hugo and an earthquake in San Francisco. Members of The American Legion and the Sons of the American Legion can receive up to $1,500. American Legion posts that have been damaged by the hurricane can receive a grant up to $5,000. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.military.com/news/article/September-2008/american-legions-national-emergency-fund-assists.html?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_americanlegion) Learn more on Military.com.
Host or Attend a Military Garage Sale
Military.com Classifieds connects the military community with local garage sales. You can search for local sales or host your own. When you're done, the Goodwill will come and pick up what is not sold. It's a great way to earn extra cash, help out the military community and donate to the Goodwill. Find out more about (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.oodle.military.com/x/garagesales&code=vr_092208_garagesale) Garage Sale Days.
Military.com Classifieds: Get Tickets to the Game
Shop Military.com Classifieds to find tickets to local football, baseball, basketball games and more. Country music or metal fan? You can also find deals on concert tickets. Just (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.oodle.military.com//sale/tickets/sports/ &code=vr_092208_oodle) enter your location to find venues near you.
Earn Money Selling Thru Classifieds
Sell stuff to other servicemembers and veterans - cars, motorcycles, gear, tickets, collectibles and more. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.oodle.military.com/?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_postclassifieds) Post ads for free thru Military.com Classifieds.
Veteran's Voter Registration Bill Passes House
Hundreds of thousands of veterans would have widespread and direct access to voter registration services through Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offices under a landmark bill that was passed by the House of Representatives yesterday, the Veterans Voting Support Act (H.R. 6625), introduced by Rep. Robert Brady. A companion bill sponsored by Senators Diane Feinstein and John Kerry (S. 3308) may be acted on by the Senate in coming days. The House and Senate bills would create new opportunities for the nation's 25 million veterans to register to vote at facilities of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
(http://capwiz.com/military/dbq/officials/) How do you feel about this action? Let your public officials know how you feel!
Featured Job: Transportation Security Officer Needed
Want a career in the aviation security field that provides you the opportunity to defend & protect your nation's transportation systems so you and your family can travel safely? Then a (http://tracking.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.tsajobs.com&code=vr_092208_job) career with the TSA is for you!
VA to Open Rural Clinics
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will open 10 new Rural Outreach Clinics by 2009 for thousands of veterans living in rural areas. The clinics will provide primary care services, case management and mental health services. Each outreach clinic will be part of a VA network, maintaining VA's quality standards and access to larger VA facilities for specialized needs. The 10 new clinics include a facility recently put in operation in Aroostook County, Maine. Scheduled to begin operation this October are facilities in Houston County, Ga.; Juneau County, Alaska; and Wasco County, Ore. Clinics to be operational by August 2009 are in Winnemucca, Nev.; Yreka, Calif.; Utuado, Puerto Rico; Lagrange, Texas; Montezuma Creek, Utah; and Manistique, Mich.
VA Grant for Illinois Veterans' Home
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has awarded a grant worth $295,100 for improvements at the state-run Illinois Manteno Veterans Home. VA's grant will cover 65 percent of the total cost of the project. Overall cost for a nurse-call system replacement at the home in Manteno is expected to be $454,000. The Manteno Veterans Home is located on a 122-acre campus, comprised of four major nursing care units and two ancillary service and support buildings. With a total capacity of 352 beds, the Manteno home offers a broad and diverse range of programs and services to eligible veterans. For more information on the Illinois Manteno Veterans Home, visit the (http://www.veterans.illinois.gov/homes/homes.htm#Manteno) Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs website or call (815) 468-6581.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
SpouseBuzz Live is Coming to San Antonio 09-22-08
All Military Spouses are invited to attend SpouseBuzz Live in San Antonio on October 18th. The event will feature discussion panels, fellowship and fun surprises. It is a day to celebrate you, the military spouse. SpouseBuzz Live will be located at the Omni San Antonio Hotel and activities will run from 9:15am to 3pm. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.nationalcareerfairs.com/spouse_buzz/details/TX/San_Antonio/October/18/2008/?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_sbl) See the full schedule and register today.
Deal of the Week: $20 off a weekly rental with Avis
Get $20 off a (http://www.avis.com/AvisWeb/html/bridge/corp/coupons/20off.html?name=Military.com&awd=A555099&SEG_ID=21710&coupon=MUCA044&logo=A555099.gif) weekly rental when you use coupon MUCA044. Provide AWD # A555099 to receive your discount of up to 25% off in addition to your coupon savings. Subject to complete terms and conditions.
Grant for Colorado Veterans Home
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) awarded a grant of up to $5.2 million for an upgrade the resident support and activity areas of the Colorado State Veterans Center at Homelake. The estimated total cost of the project is $7.9 million, with VA's grant totaling 65 percent of the overall cost. Colorado's Office of State and Veterans Nursing Homes will construct life safety improvements to the residential domiciliary cottages, implement energy-related improvements on the campus and complete foundation stabilization of the historic chapel building. For more information about the state's veterans homes and Colorado services for veterans, visit the (http://www.dmva.state.co.us/page/home) Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
To learn more about your state's benefits, visit the Military.com (http://www.military.com/benefits/veteran-benefits/state-veterans-benefits-directory) State Veteran's Benefits Directory.
Your VA Home Loan is a Safe, Secure Benefit
Your military family may feel uncertain about the mortgage industry, and one of the best ways you can protect your financial future is to lock in a low interest rate. The VA Loan Benefit is worth up to $417,000 and can help you refinance during these tough economic times. Use your benefit to lower your monthly payments, get out of credit card debt, or pay off a second mortgage. (https://secure.military.com/leads/VALoanNew/Step1.jsp?ESRC=vr.nl) Connect with lenders today and keep your family's financial future protected.
Get Credit for Your Military Experience
In the world today employers are looking for those holding a degree - AND certifications, AND experience — you stand a better chance if you have all three. For those who want to finish your schooling, and don't want to start over again, there's good news; it's called the Credit for Life Experience program - also known as a Prior Learning Assessment. Many colleges and universities now offer these programs, giving servicemembers the ability to turn their experience, college courses, military schools and training into viable college credits. (http://education.military.com/timesaving-programs/get-credit-for-your-life-experience?ESRC=vr.nl) Find out more information here.
The first step in finishing your degree is to find a school that matches your career goals and education needs. Military.com can connect you with Military-Friendly schools by filling out a simple form. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://edu.military.com/gibill?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_creditforservice) Get started now.
SpouseBuzz Live is Coming to San Antonio
All Military Spouses are invited to attend SpouseBuzz Live in San Antonio on October 18th. The event will feature discussion panels, fellowship and fun surprises. It is a day to celebrate you, the military spouse. SpouseBuzz Live will be located at the Omni San Antonio Hotel and activities will run from 9:15am to 3pm. (http://web50.military.com/cgi-bin/outlog.cgi?url=http://www.nationalcareerfairs.com/spouse_buzz/details/TX/San_Antonio/October/18/2008/?ESRC=vr.nl&code=vr_092208_sbl) See the full schedule and register today.
Suicide Prevention Hotline
Suicide is the 11th most frequent cause of death in the U.S. - someone dies from suicide every 16 minutes. Suicidal ideas and attempts to harm oneself are the result of problems that may seem like they cannot be fixed. Seek professional help - call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-TALK, and indicate you are a veteran. You will be immediately connected to VA suicide prevention and mental health professionals. Or contact your local (http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp?isFlash=1) VA Medical Center or (http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/vetcenter_flsh.asp?) Vet Center today. For more information, visit the (http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/) Department of Veterans' Affairs Suicide Prevention webpage.
Panel Completes Report on Suicide Prevention
The five-member Blue Ribbon Work Group on Suicide Prevention created by Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake in May issued its draft report, which includes recommendations that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) (1) design a study that will identify suicide risk among veterans; (2) improve its screening for suicide among veterans with depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); (3) devise a policy for protecting the confidential records of VA patients who may also be treated by the military's health care system; (4) increase research about suicide prevention; and (5) increase training for VA chaplains about the warning signs of suicide. The entire report is (http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/MENTALHEALTH/suicide_prevention/Blue_Ribbon_Report-FINAL_June-30-08.pdf) available in PDF format.
(http://www.military.com/news/stories/ptsd-news.html) More information and resources on PTSD.
Senate Votes to Repeal Widows' Offset
By a 94-to-2 vote, the Senate for a fourth straight year agreed to repeal a law that bans "concurrent receipt" for military surviving spouses. The intent is to end reduced annuities under the military (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits/survivor-benefit-plan-explained) Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) when a surviving spouse opts to draw (http://www.military.com/benefits/survivor-benefits/dependency-and-indemnity-compensation) Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) from the Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, (http://www.military.com/opinion/0,15202,175244,00.html) read the article on the Military.com website.
Veterans Day Teacher Guide Available
The 2008 Veterans Day teacher resource guide is now available. The guide includes information on the history and meaning of Veterans Day, youth volunteer opportunities, facts and figures, and a classroom activity guide. There's even a coloring book, maze and word scramble game for kids. The guide, along with a Veterans Day poster, is being distributed on CD-ROM to principals at 118,000 schools nationwide. To view or download your own copy of the guide, visit the Resources section of the (http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/index.asp) Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) Veterans Day website.
New Report on Post-Deployment Health Issued
A new report issued earlier this month by the Government Accounting Office (GAO) has found several problems with Department of Defense (DoD) oversight of the post-deployment health reassessment (PDHRA) and that the Department is unable to determine whether servicemembers are completing their reassessments. This report noted that while DoD agreed to the recommendations in the GAO's earlier, (http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d07831.pdf) June 2007 report, the Department failed to incorporate those recommendations into its oversight practices. In response, DoD has concurred with some of GAO's recommendation, but also suggested that oversight is beyond the scope of the quality assurance programs. (http://www.military.com/news/article/dod-failing-to-monitor-returning-troops.html) Read the full article on Military.com.
To find more deployment news and resources, visit (http://www.military.com/deployment) The Deployment Center.
[John K. Matyi] Thank you for your support for our Military and veterans of all of our Military services.
Posted by John K. Matyi at Wednesday, September 24, 2008 6:40 PM 
Categories: Active Duty Military, veterans, Military Veterans
Categories: Active Duty Military, veterans, Military Veterans
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