Musical fundraiser for ARMS
ARMS and Overdose Music will be hosting a “Six-String” Salute to the Military Benefit Concert, a fundraiser for ARMS so they can continue to support our troops and their families on Saturday, June 7, 4 p.m. to midnight, at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park, N.J. Donation for the event is $15.
Free day at Casino Pier, Seaside Heights for the family
Come enjoy a free day at Casino Pier, Seaside Heights, N.J., on Saturday, June 7 (rain date is Sunday, June 8), from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The pier is located at Casino Beach Pier, 800 Ocean Terrace, Seaside Heights.
Check in will be from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the waterpark entrance located on Grant Ave. This is open to all Air/Army National Guard service members and their immediate families. Each person will receive a bracelet to use for the waterpark and/or unlimited rides (excluding the Skyscraper and Go-Karts), from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. If you have any questions, please
e-mail marie.durling@nj.ngb.army.mil. Soldiers/Airmen or spouses must show an ID card to staff to receive the bracelet(s). Children do not need ID cards if accompanied by their parent(s) that have ID cards.
Hop on your Hog and Ride for the Red Shield on June 21
Hop on your motorcycle and “Ride for the Red Shield” on Saturday, June 21. The second annual ride will benefit The Salvation Army, New Jersey Division’s Emergency Disaster Services Program and Camp Tecumseh. The ride will start and finish at Camp Tecumseh.
The ride will be a Scrabble Scramble Ride with trophies for the best bike, best tattoo and a complimentary photo of each rider and their bike. There will be donuts and coffee at the start of the ride and barbecue at the finish; no alcoholic beverages will be served or allowed.
Cost is $25 per bike, $10 per passenger. Cost for lunch only, for family and friends is $5, children under 7 are free. If you sign up early, before May 31, cost is reduced to $20 and includes a complimentary T-shirt.
For more information or to register, contact Ron Yuhas, 908-851-8239,
or ron.yuhas@use.salvationarmy.org.
Purple Heart dedicates Glassboro chapter to Iraqi casualty
For the first time in the history of the Military Order of the Purple Heart in New Jersey, a chapter of the MOPH will bestow the honor of naming their chapter after a fallen hero of the Iraqi War. Chapter #336, Glassboro, N.J., will name their chapter in honor of Pfc. David J. Bentz III who died on June 20, 2007.
The ceremony will take place on June 22 at 2 p.m. at
the Glassboro VFW Memorial Hall, Post #679, 275 Wilmer Street, Glassboro.
For more information, check www.purpleheart.org or
www.djbentzscholarship.org.
HRD presents seminars for training
From the desk of Paul Serdiuk, DMAVA Human Resources Division
The Human Resources Division is offering a number of free seminars presented by the Human Recourse Training Section. Reservations are needed for each seminar; contact Paul Serdiuk at 609-530-6878 or at paul.serdiuk@njdmava.state.nj.us. All seminars will be held in Conference Room A at DMAVA Central Office. All are welcomed.
June 12: Automobile Insurance – We all have it, are required to have it, but do we really know what it is about? A representative from the Department of Banking and Insurance will present a one hour overview on what you need to know about automobile insurance in New Jersey, decipher many of the terms and jargon of your policies and give an overview of what a policy should include in it to protect you.
Sep. 17: State Deferred Compensation – Mike McConnell from Prudential Financial will meet with State employees to discuss their participation and contributions to their deferred compensation account. A 30 minute consultation will be scheduled per each employee.
Retirement Happenings
Enjoy an evening with a “retiring” Colonel
Col. Barry Johnson, formerly of the 117th Fighter Wing, 108th Air Refueling Wing, Headquarters New Jersey Air National Guard and National Guard Bureau is having a retirement dinner following a round of golf at the Blue Heron Pines Golf Club, Cologne, on June 20.
Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m. and the buffet dinner starts at 6 p.m. There will be a cash bar. Cost is $40 per person. Attire is sport casual.
RSVP no later than June 13 to Maj. Yvonne Mays, 609-645-6206, Yvonne.mays@njatla.ang.af.mil or Connie Cisek, 609-562-0901, connie.cisek@njmcgu.ang.af.mil
Play a round of golf with Col. Barry Johnson before he retires
Come play a round of golf with Col. Barry Johnson and check up on his plans for retirement. Golfing will take place at the Blue Heron Pines Golf Club, 550 West Country Club Drive, Cologne on June 20. Tee time is 10 a.m. and the cost is $80 per person and includes cart and golf fees.
RSVP no later than June 13 to Maj. Yvonne Mays, 609-645-6206, Yvonne.mays@njatla.ang.af.mil or Connie Cisek, 609-562-0901, connie.cisek@njmcgu.ang.af.mil.
Military Training, Schools, Opportunities
254th Regiment announces upcoming courses
Here are the 254th Regiment courses that are on the calendar. When using ATRRS, the school code is 1004.
Active Duty Training (ADT) Courses:
11B40 Infantryman ANCOC
June 7-21, 2008 - 31 openings
If you have any questions, contact Master Sgt. Gary Davidson, 732-974-5912 or gary.davidson@nj.ngb.army.mil.
Inquiries about NEW handbooks and directories for NJDIRECT has prompted this reply from Pensions and Benefits:
"Unfortunately, we do not have NJ Direct Handbooks to give to members and will not be receiving a supply. Members may visit the NJ Direct website www.horizonblue.com/shbp.
Members without computers are encouraged to use their local library or a relative's computer or call the plan directly".
You may also look up benefit information and visit the Unified Provider Directory on the Pensions and Benefits website under State Health Benefits Program.
State employees who move, marry must contact HR department
From the desk of Lisa Dandrea, Human Resources Office
Please remember if you have an address change and/or a name change, it is extremely important that you contact Lisa Dandrea in the Human Resources Office. There have been a lot of issues with tax W2s, pension statements and pay checks being returned to our office, as well as some employees not receiving their new health cards, all due to incorrect addresses. Your address change is not automatic and it is not limited to completing a new W4. There are specific forms for employees to complete that updates their new information statewide. Your change of address or name affects your paycheck, your pension statements, W2s, loans, any information sent out by your health care provider, promotional announcements from Dept. of Personnel, etc. If you have had an address/name change and have not updated your information, please make sure you contact Lisa Dandrea in HRD-ESB at 609-530-6888 or e-mail Lisa.Dandrea@njdmava.state.nj.us.
Christmas tickets for Radio City now on sale
Tickets are now on sale for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes. Discounted tickets are on sale through the U.S. Coast Guard Sector NY MWR office. Dates of the discounted performances are Nov. 14, 8 p.m., $53 for orchestra seats, $39 for second mezzanine seats; and Nov. 15, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., $59 for orchestra seats and $44 for second mezzanine seats.
Call Monica McBrady, 718-354-4407 or e-mail monica.mcbrady@uscg.mil; order your tickets over the phone and have them mailed to you for a $3 shipping and handling charge. All tickets must be pre-purchased and paid in full.
Lawn care services provided for military families
GreenCare for Troops is a nationwide outreach program coordinated by Project EverGreen that connects local lawn and landscape firms with men and women serving our country in the armed forces away from home.
GreenCare has helped more than 1,200 volunteers provide free lawn and landscape services for more than 4,800 military families nationwide. The cost to manage the GreenCare for Troops Program is underwritten by Cub Cadet Commercial.
Go to http://www.projectevergreen.com/gcft/ for more information.
Greyhound offers discounted fares to military, retirees, family members
Greyhound is proud to carry those who serve our country. Active duty and retired military personnel and their dependent family members may receive a 10 percent discount off the Greyhound walk-up (unrestricted) fare. Another option for military personnel is to travel on Greyhound for a maximum fare of $198 round trip anywhere in the continental United States.
Fares are valid on Greyhound schedules and those of participating interline carriers. Not available on Greyhound Canada routes.
This fare applies only to active and retired members of the United States Armed Forces, which includes the U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, and Navy; members of the National Guard, reservists and bona fide identifiable spouses and dependents of the above. A valid military picture identification card must be presented upon request.
A 40-percent discount for children of military personnel referenced above is available. Discount is not available with $198 maximum military fare. No other discounts apply.
Only totally unused tickets may be refunded to the location of the original purchase. A 15-percent penalty fee applies upon refund. No refund will be allowed if any portion of the ticket has been used.
Departure date and time may be changed for a charge of $10 per ticket provided that the advance purchase requirement is not violated.
Advance purchase tickets purchased over the phone require a minimum of ten days for delivery by mail and for online orders. Casino, commuter, Discovery Pass, student or other special military fares do not qualify for the military discount.
Fares are subject to change until purchase and may be higher during peak holiday travel periods. The 10 percent discount may not be used in conjunction with the $198 maximum fare.
Go to http://www.greyhound.com/deals/military_discounts.shtml for more information.
Battlemind supports Soldiers, families through deployment cycle
Battlemind is a term used to describe combat readiness. The first Battlemind product was a mental health post-deployment briefing. It quickly became a training system supporting Soldiers and families across the seven phases of the deployment cycle. The Battlemind system includes separate pre-deployment training modules for Soldiers, unit leaders, health-care providers and spouses. Psychological debriefings are given in theater and upon redeployment. There is also a post-deployment module for spouses and several post-deployment modules for Soldiers. Pre-deployment Battlemind tells Soldiers what they are likely to see, to hear, to think and to feel while deployed - by describing the worst-case scenario. Post-deployment Battlemind addresses safety concerns, relationship issues, normalized combat-related mental health reactions and symptoms -- along with teaching Soldiers when they should seek mental health support for themselves or for their buddies. All of the Battlemind products (training modules, brochures, debriefings and videos are available on the Web site, www.battlemind.org.
Reduced rates on NJ Transit for military, dependents
Here is another benefit offered to military members, retirees and their dependents by the state of New Jersey.
Eligible passengers may ride at reduced fare rates on any NJ Transit bus, rail or light rail service at all times, without restriction, upon presentation of authorized identification.
All military personnel and their dependents will be permitted to purchase transportation at the senior citizen/passengers with disabilities reduced fare rate upon showing their military or military dependent ID card. The following military personnel are entitled to this fare: Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard or Retired for Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard.
N.J. Militia Museum conducting Retiree Oral History Program
The National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey has put together a National Guard Veteran Retiree Oral History Program. In the past, the NJNG has not conducted oral exit interviews of commanders, full-time personnel, and retirees to preserve history. The museum is going to institute a volunteer program to try to catch up. If you wish to participate, contact the museum at 732-974-5966.
Honor Guard program wants YOU!
Looking for a way to serve and get some satisfaction at the same time? The Honor Guard program is looking for members of the Army and Air Guard to join the team to perform honor guard duties at the funerals of veterans. There is an initial eight hours of training for all new enrollees, with on-going sustainment training. As an honor guard member, you will receive a day of pay for each day’s mission, minimum of $50, and traditional drilling Guard members receive a retirement point for each day’s duties.
If you are interested in applying for the Honor Guard program, call Retired Sgt. Maj. Ed Goetschius at 609-530-7090.
Use your mouse to find all sorts of things on DMAVA Web site
Have you taken the time to visit www.nj.gov./military lately?
You can find job announcements, publications, forms, information for families, information for veterans and information on both the New Jersey Army and Air Guard.
With a simple click of a mouse button, you can check out the most recent issues of DMAVA Highlights, Guardlife and Veterans Journal. Past issues are also archived on the Web site.
With another click, you can find blank DMAVA forms, TAG memorandums and policy letters and a variety of publications.
Another click gets you to the area where you can discover information on our three Veterans homes, the Doyle cemetery, the three war memorials we oversee, Veterans Haven, the medals we present to New Jersey combat veterans and more.
Two more clicks let you see all the benefits of joining the New Jersey Army and Air National Guard.
Click! Click! Click! You can find the pages on Family Support; Youth ChalleNGe; job announcements for state, federal, active Guard and Reserve; apply for a N.J. National Guard fishing license; look up the location of your local Veterans Service Office and so much more.
Take the time to visit the Web site that takes you around the New Jersey National Guard and Department of Military and Veterans Affairs; you will discover an abundance of information and assistance.
N.J. licenses, registration extended for deployed troops
New Jerseyans who are active duty military, including the National Guard and military reserves, serving in the war on terrorism, are eligible for automatic extensions of a valid driver license, registration or inspection expiration dates. Go to www.nj.gov/mvc/ for more information.
Discounts offered for State employees
Are you a state employee looking to save a few $$$?
Visit www.state.nj.us/personnel/discounts/index.htm and you can find a number of businesses who offer discounts to New Jersey state employees. From amusement parks to fitness to computer to phones and lots of other discounts between, you will find many ways to save money. For more information, please contact Cindy Leese at cindy.leese@njdmava.state.nj.us or call 609-530-7056.
Child care $$$$$ available for spouses of deployed military
From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator
Child care money is available for spouses of Title 10 Army National Guard activated Soldiers only. If the spouses are employed, seeking employment (for 60 days) or going to school, they can qualify for a $100 per month per child stipend for fulltime care (licensed child care provider required). Call the National Guard Child Care Program today to apply 1-888-642-2799 or ngccp@guardfamily.org.
Family Programs sponsoring youth trip to Liberty Science Center
From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator
On Friday, June 27, Family Programs will be renting a bus for 30 youths ages 7-16 and seven adults for a day trip to Liberty Science Center, Jersey City. We will leave Fort Dix at 7:15 a.m. and return at 5 p.m. The bus will stop at the Jersey City Armory at 8:45 a.m. to pick up more youths (as well as drop them off at 3:30 p.m. before heading back to Fort Dix).
The trip will include lunch – sandwich, pretzels, fruit and juice – but everyone is welcome to bring snacks and spending money. Each young person will have to pay $5 for the uniformed T-shirt of the day. If interested, call Amanda at 609-562-0742.
No-cost prescription savings plan available
From the desk of Marie Durling, Family Programs Specialist
Here is a no cost to you prescription savings program. This program offers discounts on all generic prescription medications at your local pharmacy. You do not have to do anything special to qualify. There is no income, residence, employment, age, citizenship or any other qualifications to meet. Not even an application to fill out. The Family State Programs Office at Joint Force Headquarters, Fort Dix has the group ID cards. Call Marie Durling at 609-562-0739 and one will be mailed to you. For more information check out www.mediservrx.com.
Lawrenceville FAC schedules events for members
From the desk of Jane Hackbarth, Family Assistance Specialist
The Lawrenceville Family Assistance Center and the Family Readiness Support Assistant have scheduled the activities open to all Family Readiness Group members:
July 26, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Parenting During Deployment, presented by Army Community Services, Fort Dix
Sept. 20, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Bullying presentation, presented by ACS, Fort Dix
People attending who will be bringing children are asked to RSVP to their own FAC or to Jane Hackbarth at 609-671-6681 no later than one week prior to the event.
Camp Noble Cause serving children, spouses of deployed Guard members
From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator
Camp Noble Cause is a three day camping experience that will serve the children and spouses of the New Jersey National Guardsmen and women being deployed this summer. Our mission is to provide a no-cost summer camp experience, for a weekend of fun and camaraderie.
It will be held on August 22-24 at Camp Winnebago, 102 Timberbrook Road, Rockaway, N.J., approximately 12 miles from Wayne. It is being hosted by the Scouts of the Patriot’s Path Council, Boy Scouts of America and Operation Noble Cause.
All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Overnight camping capacity is limited to 300 and the day camp can accommodate an additional 200. Children must be old enough to tent camp comfortably to attend.
Planned activities include: mountain biking and nature walks, crafts, astronomy, shooting sports (archery, rifle, shot gun), rockwall climbing, waterfront activities (boating, swimming, fishing), Geocaching (GPS “hide and seek”), sports (softball, volleyball, basketball, soccer and more) and campfire activities.
Go to http://main.ppbaa.org and click on the Camp Noble Cause icon to register for families to go on weekend retreats.
Morris County offers program for military families
From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator
Family Service of Morris County in partnership with the Family Programs Office, New Jersey, would like to announce its Military Families Outreach Program. Based on a community effort, the Military Families Outreach Program strives to support Morris County military personnel and their families, including extended families, pre-deployment, during deployment and post-deployment.
We realize the pressures and problems that may occur when a family member is called to duty, and we want to assist with any services that you may need to ensure quality of life. Social services, support services and mental health services are some of the resources that will be available to Morris County residents. All services offered in this program are free of charge to you and your family and are bound by the highest consideration for complete confidentiality.
For more information about the Military Services Outreach Program, contact Wendy Parrinello, Military Families Outreach Case Manager at wparrinello@fsmc.org or call 973-538-5260, extension 326. You can also contact Tammy Rosenthal, Director of child and Adolescent Services at trosenthal@fsmc.org or 973-538-5260. We are privileged to work with you who have given so much for your country!
Order a complimentary Blue Star Flag to show your family’s service
From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family Assistance Specialist
The Blue Star Flag first appeared in 1917, when Capt. Robert L. Queissner, who had two sons serving on the front line, designed it as a tribute to their dedication and service. He proudly displayed this flag in the front window of his home and the flag quickly became the unofficial symbol of a child in the service. Also known as a Service Flag, the blue star stands for hope and pride. Order a complimentary Blue Star Flag to honor your loved ones in the service by visiting: www.grantham.edu/promo/freebluestar.php.
Program offers grant funds to spouses of deployed military
The Deployed Military Spouses Assistance Program provides direct assistance and referrals to existing programs for spouses of deployed military personnel (active duty, reserve and National Guard) who face unusual financial and emotional stress as a result of the deployments.
Applicants should contact Fawn Mutschler at 609-543-6200 ext. 325 or
wocmilitarygrant@ymca-bc.org to obtain an application. In addition to the completed application form, applicants will also need to submit the following documentation: LES/paystub for applicant and spouse; statement of Financial Need (i.e. reason for applying and how the grant will help); bill or pricing of expenditure as well as any other supporting information the applicant feels may be helpful. Additional information can be found at: www.state.nj.us/dca/dow/depmilspouseasst.shtml
Family Deployment Briefing schedule updated
The following is the updated Family Deployment Briefing Schedule presented by the Family Programs Office at various armories throughout New Jersey. Any family member that is interested in learning more about important information, who to contact and ways to cope through this upcoming deployment are welcomed to attend ANY of the briefs, no matter where the Soldier's home station is located, as all the information will be the same at every brief.
Children, ages three and up, are welcome to attend too! For more information, please contact your local Family Assistance Center by calling 1-888-859-0352.
Date Armory Time
Sunday, June 8 Bordentown 2:30 p.m.
**Any family that will be experiencing a deployment may attend ANY of the above briefs as all the information will be the same no matter where the Soldier's home station is located in the state. All youth are welcomed to attend. We will have established youth programs, in a separate area, for youth ages three and older.
For the kids – tour JT2DC and have lunch on June 7
From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator
Kids – come tour the Battle Lab – learn about flags, military jobs, weapon marksmanship, walk through the urban, desert and woodland fighting lanes and drive the virtual combat convoy trainer. On June 7, from 9:15 a.m. to noon, 20 slots are open for youths 10 and older to tour the Joint Training and Training Development Center (JT2DC) on Fort Dix. Parents may drop children off or walk through with the group. Hot dogs, chips and drinks fill the lunch time menu after the tour. Contact Amanda Balas to register for the tour at Amanda.balas@us.army.mil or 609-562-0742.
Strong Bonds program helps strengthen relationships
From the desk of Marie Durling, Family Programs Specialist
Soldiers or Airmen (Army and Air Guard) and their significant others are encouraged to attend one of the upcoming Strong Bonds. Soldiers will attend in a paid SUTA status and all expenses are paid. These seminars have been extremely successful and are designed to strengthen relationships. The cost of the hotel and meals and literature are paid for by NGB.
There are three openings for the May 30- June 1 weekend to be held at the Clarion in Egg Harbor Township. If you are interested please e-mail me and I will e-mail a registration form to you. I need the forms in my office by May 25. Couples that sign up are required to attend all day Saturday and until noon on Sunday. If you cannot attend the entire program, please do not sign up.
The seminars are not therapy sessions or encounter groups nor are they for sharing your personal concerns. The seminars are conducted by the state chaplains' office and begin with teaching effective communication skills, address problem resolution strategies that work and teach how to discover the hidden issues in every relationship. The program then moves into friendship, forgiveness, fun and sensuality.
If you are interested in attending or need additional information, please call Marie Durling at 609-562-0739 or e-mail marie.durling@nj.ngb.army.mil.
These seminars usually fill up fast, so if interested, please call as soon as possible.
Post Office offers boxes, discount rate to FPO/APO addresses
From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family Assistance Specialist
Now the U.S. Postal Service is making it easier for families to send care packages with a larger flat rate box and a special discount to FPO/ APO addresses. The new boxes can be used beginning March 3. They are 50 percent larger than the current flat rate box and can be sent to any domestic address for $12.95. A special military version of the box will carry the "America Supports You" logo and can be shipped to any FPO/ APO address for $10.95. The new Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Box is "12 x 12" x 5½". For complete guidelines on mail services to military members overseas visit the USPS website at:
http://www.usps.com/supportingourtroops/welcome.htm?from=household &page=troopsupport.
Federal grant for spouses of deployed military
Grants from a funding of $200,000 from the Department of Community Affairs are available for spouses of deployed or recently deployed military (all branches across the state). Typical awards are $2,500 each and are available for financial difficulties (such as past due rent and childcare) as well as for recreational and stress relieving activities for kids. For more information contact Fawn I. Mutschler, Military Grant Liaison, Women's Opportunity Center, YMCA of Burlington County by calling 609-543-6200 Ext. 325 or by email at wocmilitarygrant@ymca-bc.org.
N.J. State Family Readiness Council offers Family Grants Program
The New Jersey National Guard State Family Readiness Council has expanded its Family Grants Program to include an additional grant. There are now two levels of Family Grants; TIER I is the $2,500 grant that has been in place for the past couple of years. The TIER II opens family grants to New Jersey Army and Air National Guard non-deployed service members who were on State Active Duty or State Missions (e.g., hurricanes, floods, border missions) for more than 20 consecutive days. Service members meeting these criteria are eligible to apply for a financial hardship grant up to $1,500. Applications are available at all New Jersey Army and Air National Guard Family Assistance Centers.
Sports
Fourth annual SGT Nutter Run scheduled for June 14
The fourth annual SGT Nutter Run will be held on June 14. Sergeant Sam Nutter (Jan. 28, 1966 – Jan. 2, 2005) was a member of the New Jersey Army National Guard and served in the U. S. Navy from 1989-1997. Each year the NJARNG Officer Candidate School holds a benefit 5k run in his memory and the proceeds raised are donated to a NJARNG family in need. This year’s beneficiary is Dina; daughter of New Jersey Army National Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy D. Marvian, of the 102nd Cavalry (RSTA) who will be deploying to Iraq later this year. Dina has endured a life-long battle with Neurofibromatosis Type I. Come join us as we band together to give a helping hand to a member of our National Guard family.
Fun family events and a BBQ to celebrate the Army’s birthday will follow the race.
Visit http://www.NutterRun.com for registration forms, donation forms, and more information.
NGANJ holding 20th Annual Golf Tourney to benefit scholarships
The National Guard Association of New Jersey is holding their 20th Annual President’s Golf Tournament at Falcon Creek Golf Course, McGuire Air Force Base on June 28.
For a donation of $115 per person, golfers will receive greens fees, cart, refreshments, dinner, shirt and door prizes. All proceeds from the event will benefit the NGANJ scholarship fund.
The tournament will begin at 10 a.m. with a shotgun start using a four-person scramble format. Prizes will be awarded to the first and second place teams for low gross and low net scores, closest to pin on hole 2 and the longest drive on hole 17, both men and women.
Coffee, juice and donuts will be served at 8:30 a.m. For those who would only like to attend the dinner after the tournament, the cost is $30.
The committee is also looking for corporate sponsors, refreshment sponsors, hole sponsors, boosters, cash donations, and gift prizes. If you would like to participate in any way, contact Jack Petrosilli at 609-530-6843 or go to www.nganj.org.
NJ IAWP’s golf outing benefits New Jersey’s homeless veterans
The New Jersey Chapter of International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP) is holding its second annual charity golf outing on July 26 and this year the proceeds will go to support New Jersey’s Homeless Veterans. The IAWP is looking for participants to come to the Falcon Creek Golf Club, McGuire Air Force Base at noon for the shot gun start.
Cost of the golf outing is $150 per person; the cost includes continental breakfast, greens fees with cart, one-hour open bar, dinner and awards. There will be door prizes, a 50-50 and a raffle drawing. Persons only wishing to attend the dinner will pay $50. IAWP is looking for hole sponsors - $100 and boosters - $25.
Register now by visiting www.nj.gov/labor/njiapes/index.html or call 973-748-0123.
Trenton Thunder offers reduced tickets to military personnel, vets
The Trenton Thunder baseball team and its community partner, the Trenton Vet Center, have collaborated to sponsor reduced ticket prices for veterans and their families during the 2008 Trenton Thunder baseball season.
A regular $10 ticket has been reduced to $7 for veterans and their family members.
Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard, separated, and retired veterans are eligible for this program. Interested veterans must have a picture I.D. and provide proof of their veteran status by showing one of the following documents:
- & Military I.D. card.
- & Federal Department of Veteran Affairs medical I.D. card
- & DD Form 214
Armed Forces Vacation Club offers affordable lodging
The Armed Forces Vacation Club is a "space available" program offering Department of Defense affiliated personnel affordable condominium vacations at over 3,500 resorts around the world. Visit www.afvclub.com/ for more information.
Shades of Green offers Disney for military
Now that the summer is just around the corner, thoughts of how to spend next summer or your next vacation week, can start to pop into your mind. “Can we go someplace better or different, nearer or farther from home, all without breaking the bank?”
One place to consider if Florida is one of your next vacation places is Shades of Green in Orlando. Minutes from the Disney attractions, this resort is also close to golf, dining and other Florida attractions.
Their web site, www.shadesofgreen.org can give you tours of their rooms and family suites, the local attractions and other amenities that are offered by the resort. The rates are reasonable and will be an opportunity to visit Orlando with your family.
Scholarship, Education News
Scholarships available for OIF/OEF veterans
Here is an opportunity for veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan to get scholarship money for college. The Fund for Veterans’ Education will award up to $3.5 million in scholarship money this year.
You can read more about the scholarship program and how to apply at www.veteransfund.org. The application postmark deadline is June 15, 2008, so send in your application as soon as possible.
Education news for NJARNG
Education Services Brochure Booklet (ESB2)
Access the New Jersey Army National Guard's ESB2 at www.nj.gov/military/education. The ESB2 is a comprehensive guide with links and shortcuts to civilian education benefits available to New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers.
G.I. Bill Notice of Basic Eligibility
New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers can print their Eligibility of Mobilized Soldier notification letter for CH 1607 as well as Notice Of Basic Eligibility for CH 1606 at https://www.nationalguardbenefits.com; click on G.I. Bill Home Page.
American Legion offers scholarships, booklet on their Web site
The American Legion has scholarship information on their Web site – www.legion.org – including the 152-page booklet, Need a Lift, which is a complete financial aid reference guide for veterans, family members and the American Legion family. When you get on the site, click on “Scholarship Information” in the “Useful Links” block.
Association News
Enlisted Association wants YOU!
By retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, EANG-NJ
The Enlisted Association National Guard-New Jersey is off to a good start for 2008 as we have realigned all the committees and filled both the Executive Council and Committees with a cross section of Army and Air, uniformed and retirees, and several junior NCOs. Everyone appears to be enthused and pledges to support the Association in all its efforts. All we need now is for you to get on board as a member and bring your fellow soldiers and airmen with you.
We have many challenges facing us over the next few years whether it is another round of base closures via the Base Realignment Commission (BRAC), reduction in TRICARE benefits, reduction in troop strength, attempts to maintain the retirement age at 60, etc. We need a powerful voice to put our message across to the State and Federal Legislators and this can only be accomplished through a strong membership in our State Association (EANG-NJ) and the National Association (EANGUS).
The new membership year starts on 1 January 2008 and we need your help in making our Association grow. We encourage all enlisted soldiers and airmen to join the Association as Active Members and also welcome all officers, warrant officers, federal, and state employees to join as Associate Members. Applications for membership can be obtained from
our website www.eang-nj.org.
NGANJ group life insurance available to members
Are you covered by the NGANJ Group Life Insurance Program? As a member of either the Officers or the Enlisted Association, you are entitled to enroll in your Association Life Insurance Program. This special program provides from $5,000 to $50,000 of Life Insurance for you, “round the clock”. Premiums range from as little as $2 per month and may be payroll-deducted from your drill check. Family coverage is also available at low rates designed for you as a member of the New Jersey Army and Air National Guard. Think of it!! No aviation exclusions...No hazardous duty restrictions...No war clauses…No checks to write. Dependent coverage includes spouses and all children. Information can be obtained by contacting retired CWO Jack Petrosilli at 609-530-6843, or retired Brig. Gen. Robert S. Dutko Sr. at 609-273-1004. Enrollment forms can be obtained by calling retired Col. Frank L. Carlone, Program Coordinator at 732-249-8335.
Web site provides support to separating military members
TurboTAP (Transition Assistance Program) is an easy to use, interactive Web portal that provides life-long support to separating military service members (Active Duty, Guard and Reserve) and their families. It is a single source starting point for accessing key resources available for servicemembers transitioning out of the military at any point in their military career. Resources include Department of Defense, Department of Labor, Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Education, Small Business Administration, the National Veterans Corporation and the National Guard Bureau. For more information go to www.TurboTAP.org or email TAPHelp@military-inc.com.
DMAVA Veterans Outreach Campaign continues
The DMVA Veterans Outreach Campaign continues with kiosk displays at selected malls throughout New Jersey. The schedule is as follows:
July 8, 9, 10 |
Cherry Hill Mall |
July 18* |
Traveling Wall, Wildwood |
August 5*, 6, 7 |
Willowbrook Mall |
September 2*, 3, 4 |
Bridgewater Commons Mall |
October 14*, 15, 16 |
Menlo Park Mall |
November 5*, 6, 7 |
Deptford Mall |
*Medal ceremonies begin at 10:30 a.m. on these dates. The kiosk will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The kiosk will also be in place at the Wildwood Convention Center for three state conventions.
v June 5-6, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. – Elks State Convention
v June 11-13, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. – American Legion State Convention
v June 18-20, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. – VFW State Convention, medal ceremony on June 19
The New Jersey State Building and Construction Trades Council’s Helmets to Hardhats Program (NJ H2H) is designed to help transitioning military personnel, National Guardsmen and Reservists find the careers in the building and construction industry. The program seeks to help military members find a career in one of 15 affiliated trades, such as electrical workers, carpenters and painters.
They work in cooperation with the national Helmets to Hardhats program, adding a personal component to the program’s on-line services. NJ H2H offers veterans preparation for successful application to any of New Jersey’s registered apprenticeship programs in the building and construction trades. Services include career counseling, entrance test preparation and referral to supportive services.
For program registration and information, visit online at www.njbctc.org/h2h or contact at 732-499-7295 or at H2H@njbctc.org.
N.J.Vietnam Veterans Memorial
N.J. Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and Vietnam Era Educational Center's upcoming events:
“Bullets and Bandages” author will speak on Flag Day
On Flag Day, Saturday, June 14, at 1 p.m., the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation will host an author lecture and book discussion by New Jersey native Robert Saniscalchi about his novel, Bullets and Bandages, a story surrounding a young medic in Vietnam. This program will be held at the Vietnam Era Educational Center in Holmdel, NJ.
Robert Saniscalchi and his brother Patrick were born and raised in New Jersey. Patrick entered the Army at age 19 and was soon serving as an Army combat medic in Vietnam. As Patrick’s tour of duty is the inspiration for Robert’s novel, he will join in this special discussion. Bullets and Bandages is based on true events from Patrick’s tour as the medic for B Company, 4th Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment of the 23rd Infantry “Americal” Division, from 1968 to 1969. Those two years saw the most intense fighting out of all the 15 years of America’s direct involvement in the war in Vietnam, keeping medics, like Patrick, busy tending to the battlefield wounded. Patrick, nicknamed “Pat the Cat,” was part of an elite rescue and reconnaissance platoon working in the area around Danang, South Vietnam. While a fictional account of a young man's tour of duty in Vietnam, Bullets and Bandages accurately describes the problems faced by military personnel assigned to fight the Viet Cong and the heartbreaks suffered from the loss of comrades. It explains why many veterans feel changed when they return home and why a lot of them never talk about these experiences.
Robert Saniscalchi currently resides with his family in Blandon, Penn., and is a licensed electrician and a writer. Two of his essays, “The Link Between Iraq and Vietnam” and “In Freedom’s Light,” have been published by Amazon Shorts.
Lecture attendees are asked to RSVP to (732) 335-0033. A donation of $5 per person is suggested. The Vietnam Era Educational Center is located adjacent to the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial off the Garden State Parkway at exit 116. The Educational Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Regular admission is free for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Regular adult admission is $4; student and senior citizen admission is $2; and children under 10 are admitted free.
=================
Free guided tours of the Memorial are offered on the first Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
June 14, 1 p.m. – Bullets and Bandages, a novel about an Army Combat Medic in the Vietnam War – an author lecture and book signing by Robert Saniscalchi accompanied by his brother Patrick Saniscalchi, N.J. Vietnam Veteran and the inspiration for Robert's novel.
July 19, 1 p.m. – "Re-Inventing the Wheel: U.S. Air Force Close Air Support in Vietnam" – a lecture by Tom Wisker, host of the radio program "Weaponry" on WBAI-FM, New York City.
Aug. 9, 1 p.m. – "Centaurs in Vietnam: Army Air Cavalry at War" – a video and oral-history presentation by N.J. Vietnam Veteran Carl Burns, former chopper pilot with the "Centaurs" of the 25th Infantry Division.
Sept. 19, 11 a.m. – National POW/MIA Recognition Day and National Gold Star Mothers Day Ceremony at the N.J. Vietnam Veterans' Memorial.
Sept. 21, 12:30 p.m. – Arrival at the N.J. Vietnam Veterans' Memorial by Rolling Thunder-N.J., annual motorcycle run for POW/MIA awareness.
====================
For further information call 1-800-648-VETS or visit www.njvvmf.org.
