New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
DMAVA Highlights » 22 May 2008

Volume 8, Number 21

NJ Dept of Military and Veterans Affairs

Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth
The Adjutant General

Brig. Gen. Maria Falca-Dodson
Deputy Adjutant General

Col. (Ret) Stephen G. Abel
Deputy Commissioner for Veterans Affairs

Contacting us is easy!

Public Affairs Office

Phone: (609) 530-7088
Fax: (609) 530-6963



Veterans' Organizations Contact Information

State Veterans Service Council
Mr. Richard Clark
RJClark21@msn.com

NJ Advisory Committee for Women Veterans
Mrs. Anna Hoffman
hoffmanannem@aol.com

BG Willam C. Doyle Cemetery Advisory Council
Mr. William Rakestraw
warjrnj@msn.com



Veterans Hotlines


Benefits & Entitlements
1-888-8NJ-VETS
(1-888-865-8387)

Mental Health
1-866-VETS-NJ4
(1-866-838-7654)

Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline

1-800-984-8523

DMAVA Highlights Archive

DMAVA Highlights Archive Page



NJ World War II Memorial


For information or to make a donation, call 609-530-7049

WWII Memorial on the web

ESGR office

JFHQ 3650 Saylors Pond Road Fort Dix, NJ 08641

Hank Pierre, 609-562-0156, hank.pierre@njdmava.state.nj.us Tammy Cartagena, 609-562-0157, tammy.l.cartagena@us.army.mil Fax 609-562-0158

 

Please submit any articles and all information for DMAVA Highlights to:

PAO Office DMAVA Highlights
ATTN: Staff Sgt. Barb Harbison

Deadline is noon Wednesday

Staff Sgt. Barbara Harbison barbara.harbison@njdmava.state.nj.us Or Call 609-530-7088

 



Phone numbers and Web sites to remember

Directory Assistance:

1-602-293-4907

Verizon Super Pages: http://www.superpages.com

AT&T: http://www.anywho.com/

SBC Yellow Pages: http://www.yellowpages.com/

Telephone and contact information on state employees can be found at http://njdirect.state.nj.us/

 

DMAVA Emergency Hotline:

1-866-232-5798


Quotes for the Week   

 

Mankind must put an end to war, or war will put an end to mankind.  

- John F. Kennedy

Wars are not paid for in wartime, the bill comes later.  

- Benjamin Franklin

Bravery is the capacity to perform properly even when scared half to death.

- Omar Bradley

It is surmounting difficulties that makes heroes.

- Louis Pasteur

How sweet to remember the trouble that is past!.  

- Greek proverb

 


Download PDF Version of this week's highlights

Mullen cites importance of remembrance in Memorial Day message

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 21, 2008 – Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, cited the importance of remembering the cost of freedom in a Memorial Day message to the armed forces.

His full message follows:

“Let no ravages of time testify to the present or the coming generations that we, as a people, have forgotten the cost of a free and undivided republic.”

“With that solemn promise, Army General John Logan signed the order in 1868 that established Memorial Day.  We have honored his promise faithfully ever since, and this year – with our nation still at war and a new generation of heroes fighting and dying for freedom – we will do it again.

“The ‘cost’ of which Logan wrote is, of course, the blood spilt of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.  It is the hardest currency of all, once spent never to be recouped, a debt we can never truly, fully repay.

“And yet, Memorial Day provides us the opportunity at the very least to acknowledge that debt, to recognize this incredible sacrifice and to recommit ourselves to making sure it wasn’t spent in vain.

“Upon the graves of our war dead – be they from Lexington and Concord; Gettysburg and Antietam; the Argonne Forest or the beaches of Normandy; Chosin and Inchon; Saigon and the Mekong Delta; Baghdad or Kandahar – rests not only the memories and the pride of valor past, but the hope and the vision of a better, more peaceful future.

“Please join me this Memorial Day in remembering, on behalf of present and coming generations, the deep and abiding debt we owe to our fallen and to their loved ones.”

Memorial Day Events

Brig. Gen. Doyle Cemetery Memorial Day ceremony set for May 24

The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery will hold the Annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Saturday, May 24, at the Doyle Cemetery, North Hanover Township.  The parade of New Jersey veterans’ organizations will pass in review at 10:30 a.m. and the memorial service will begin at 11 a.m.

West Orange Memorial Day Ceremony includes medal presentations

West Orange will hold their Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 26 at 10 a.m. at the Township Hall, 66 Main Street, West Orange.  The event will include presentation of the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal (and other state awards) for the tenth consecutive year.

The awards will be present to 11 West Orange combat veterans.

Mayor John F. McKeon, retired Brig. Gen. William John Marshall III and local dignitaries will be on hand to present the medals.

One Nation Under God musical

You are invited to the Come Alive! New testament Church, 240 Old Marlton Pike, Medford, on Sunday, May 25 at 10:30 a.m. for a musical, “One Nation Under God,” presented by the church choir.  All active duty military, National Guard members and veterans are invited to attend.

A free picnic with special activities and games for all will begin immediately after the service.  Call 609-654-8466 for free tickers, directions and more information.

Playland Park in New York offers Military Appreciation Day May 25

Playland Park, Rye, N.Y., is having a Veterans and Service Members Appreciation Day on May 25 from noon to midnight.  There will be a Memorial Day ceremony at 1:30 p.m. at the Music Tower Theater and the U.S. Marine Corps will have a helicopter demo and display 2-4 p.m. adjacent to the Edith G. Reade Sanctuary.

Veterans with DD 214, VA ID cards or current veteran organization membership card can receive free parking and purchase 2-for-1 fun bands for themselves and immediate family. Uniformed military personnel get free parking and free rides. Family members of veterans or uniformed personnel can purchase 2-for-1 fun bands.

Pre-registration and parking passes available at Veterans Service Agency, 112 Post Road, Room 442, White Plains, N.Y. 10601, 914-995-2146.  Or you can register at the event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Go to Uhttp://www.ryeplayland.org/U to discover all that Playland Park has available for the family.

Hopewell Valley Vets ceremony recognizing N.J. veterans

The Hopewell Valley Veterans Association is holding a Memorial Day ceremony on May 24, at 10 a.m. The event is located at the memorial site at the Alliger Tract, on Washington Crossing- Pennington Road, adjoining the Hopewell Township municipal complex. The public is welcome to attend this free event and view the memorial site. The celebration will recognize New Jersey veterans and will include military displays, a rifle salute, benediction, and an unveiling of engraved bricks donated in honor of veterans. The association is raising funds for constructing and maintaining a permanent Veteran's Memorial in Hopewell Township. For more information, visit www.hopewellvalleyveterans.org or call 609-737-6681.

News For Your Views

50th IBCT Farewell Ceremony at Doughboy Field, Fort Dix, June 14

Come say farewell to the more than 3,500 Soldiers of the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team on June 14 at 10:30 a.m. on Doughboy Field at Fort Dix.  These hometown heroes will be leaving for pre-mobilization training at Fort Bliss, Texas, prior to deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Entrance for the event will be at the Fort Dix Sports Gate.  Individuals 14 years and older must have ID.  Accepted IDs are: student ID for those under 18 years old, drivers’ license, military ID or U.S. passport.  Seating is limited, so be there early; lawn chairs are welcome.

Important note: Fort Dix police will run vehicle/individual ID checks at the gate and detain any person and/or vehicle that does not have proper identification.

Directions to the Fort Dix Sports Gate:

From North Jersey:  New Jersey Turnpike south to Exit 7; merge onto US Route 206 South; take the right hand jug handle to get across onto Route 68 South; turn right at Fort Dix Road; turn left at CR-669/Juliustown Road; turn left at CR-630/Pointville Road; the Fort Dix Sports Gate will be on the left.

From South Jersey: I-295 North toward Trenton; take exit 40A to merge onto Route 38 East toward Mt. Holly; continue on CR-530/South Pemberton Road; Continue to follow CR-530; turn left at CR-530/CR-516/Hanover Road; turn right at CR-630/Pointville Road; the Fort Dix Sport Gate will be on the left.

From Central Jersey Shore: Take Route 37; left at Route 70 West; at the traffic circle, stay on route 70 West; slight right at CR-530/Lakehurst Road; continue on CR-669/Juliustown Road/Juliustown-Browns Mill Road; turn right at CR-630/Pointville Road; the Fort Dix Sport Gate will be on the left.

Family members of 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team soldiers can get Fort Dix event passes through the Soldier’s unit which can facilitate gate processing.

Air Week, Air Show can help fill the holiday calendar

Looking for some adventures for the family this coming week?  Look no further than the McGuire Air Force Base and the Philadelphia area. 

Air Force Week in Philadelphia will be in the area, May 26-June 2. Go to Uhttp://www.airforceweekinphiladelphia.com/U and find events to attend – Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Zoo, Franklin Institute, a Phillies game, USO ribbon cutting, Tops in Blue concert, movies, book signing and more. 

Then, you can top it off with the Air Force 2008 Air Expo.  The Air Show will be at McGuire Air Force Base May 31–June 1, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with performances starting at 11 a.m.  For more information, check out the Web site at Uwww.mcguireairexpo.infoU.

 

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 ULisa.Dandrea@njdmava.state.nj.usU.

NJ Youth ChalleNGe selected for National Memorial Day parade

From the desk of Sean Van Lew, Deputy Director, NJYCA

On Monday May 26, the Colonials from the New Jersey Youth ChalleNGe Academy will represent the State of New Jersey at this year’s National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. A contingent of 40 cadets and six staff members, as well as the academy color guard, will be making the trip to participate in one of the largest parades in the country. The National Memorial Day Parade will be broadcast live by YorkTel Television on News Channel 8 in the Washington, D.C television market. The parade will also be available via satellite.  If there is someone who can uplink to the satellite (i.e. local cable station, etc), the coordinates are:

IA 13/Echo 9 @ 121 Degrees West; Transponder 31; D/L Freq 12159.5; Polarization: Vert Down; Symbol Rate: 2.8936; ¾ FEC; 4.0 Data Rate

The satellite window is from 1:30-4:14 p.m. on Monday, May 26 for the parade.

Congratulations to the Youth ChalleNGe Academy for again being selected to participate in this prestigious event.

 

No handbooks available for NJDIRECT

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.

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 Utheir immediate familiesU.  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 Umarie.durling@nj.ngb.army.milU. 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.

 

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.

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.

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 Ungccp@guardfamily.orgU.

Discounts for military, veterans during holiday weekend

Here are a couple stores that are offering a discount to military members, former and current, during the holiday weekend.

Big Lots stores is offering a 10 percent discount to members of the military, veterans and families of active duty personnel on May 24.  Just show your valid ID at the checkout.  Visit Uhttp://www.biglots.com/military/U for more information.

Lowe's Cos. Inc. will offer a 10 percent discount to all active, reserve, honorably discharged and retired military personnel during the Memorial Day holiday. The discount on in-store purchases up to $5,000 is available Thursday, May 22 through Monday, May 26.

To qualify, shoppers must present valid military identification or other proof of service. Certain items, including gift cards, John Deere products and Electrolux kitchen appliances, are excluded.

Carnival Cruise Lines offers military discount

From the desk of Monica McBrady, USCG Sector NY, MWR Branch

In honor of Memorial Day, Carnival Cruise Lines is offering active and retired military personnel an opportunity to book up to three "Fun Ship" staterooms for themselves and their friends and family members at special discounted rates. 

The new 'Carnival Salutes Our Troops" promotion is available in conjunction with a wide variety of three to 12 day "Fun Ship" voyages between now and Dec 31, 2009 from 20 different departure points. 

Reservations must be made before May 31, 2008 to qualify.

The promotion is valid for individual bookings only, capacity controlled and not applicable with any other discount offer.  Military personnel must provide proof of service during the reservation process to be eligible for special rates.

Contact your MWR office for cruise pricing and availability.

Note: Monica McBrady can be reached at 718-354-4407 or Umonica.mcbrady@uscg.milU; Web site: Uhttp://uscgsectorny.mwrtvl.com/U

101 Days of Summer safety message from Secretary of Defense

From the office of Secretary Robert Gates, Secretary of Defense

Tragically, last year during the 101 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day 77 servicemen and women died in private motor vehicle accidents. While Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer, it also means increased traffic on our nation's roads.

Know that the choices you make at sporting events, barbeques, and other summer activities can impair your judgment and reaction times - all of which are necessary for safe driving.

Don't put your life, or the lives of others, in danger by making poor decisions. Most vehicle accidents are the result of alcohol, fatigue, and excessive speed. Your safety, and the safety of those around you, is in your hands.

Enjoy the summer and all it has to offer, but be smart and be safe.

AMVETS creates volunteer recognition award

AMVETS is extremely proud to introduce the creation of a special volunteer recognition award that may be used to recognize those individuals who are going the extra mile in their support of Family Readiness Groups.  The recipient of this award will receive an attractive plaque and a check for $1,000 payable to the recipient’s FRG.

   The nominations must be submitted with a cover letter signed by the State Family Programs Director endorsing the nomination.  The deadline is May 31.  Questions or to request a digital copy/PDF of the criteria and nomination form can be requested by e-mail at Uthilton@amvets.orgU or by calling Tiffany Hilton at 301-683-4031. 

 

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 Uwww.nj.gov/labor/njiapes/index.htmlU or call 973-748-0123.

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 Uwww.mediservrx.comU

 

Working Together for Strong, Healthy, and Supportive Communities

From the Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Aging

The United States is nearing the start of a tremendous demographic shift. Beginning in 2011, the first of 78 million baby boomers (people born between 1946 and 1964) will start transitioning into retirement, kicking off an expansion in the number of elderly people that will continue for decades. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one out of every nine baby boomers will live to be at least age 90.

Our Nation will benefit in many ways from a larger population of older adults, a group that constitutes one of our greatest resources. Older adults support our society by providing millions of hours of volunteer, community, and civic service through formal organizations and a variety of informal arrangements. They enhance our communities and personal lives by sharing and transferring knowledge of cultures, values, and life experiences among generations. Thankfully, the contributions of older adults will continue to flourish in the coming years, since older citizens of today and tomorrow promise to be among the most active and engaged older adult populations in our Nation’s history.

An expanding older adult population also spotlights our responsibility to ensure the well-being of our older citizens. As a Nation, we are working diligently to address older adults’ unique health and long-term care challenges. The thousands of professionals, caregivers, and volunteers that make up the National Aging Services Network have been collaborating in innumerable ways for decades to fulfill the mission of the Older Americans Act. Led by the U.S. Administration on Aging, the Network is now engaged in modernizing systems of care to provide consumers with more control over their lives.

May is Older Americans Month, a great time to bring attention to the issues that affect older adults. This year’s theme is “Working Together for Strong, Healthy, and Supportive Communities,” which speaks to the opportunities we have to create better care and reinforce healthier societies for all ages. Working together, our communities can improve older adults’ overall quality of life by helping them:

Make behavioral changes in their lifestyles that can reduce risk of disease, disability, and injury.

Obtain the tools they need to make informed decisions about, and gain better access to, existing health and long-term care options in their communities.

Have more options to avoid placement in nursing homes and remain at home as long as possible

Americans of all ages and backgrounds can celebrate Older Americans Month. Contact your local Agency on Aging and volunteer for activities in your area, promote community, state and national efforts to serve older adults, and find ways to enrich the lives of the older adults who touch your life. By working together we can improve the health and well being of our Nation’s older adults and pave the way for future generations.

 

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

From the desk of Dorinda Sapp, Affirmative Action Officer

In an effort to celebrate the history and contributions of Asian/Pacific Islanders to the United States, in 1977, Reps. Frank Horton and Norman Mineta proposed to President Carter that the first 10 days of May be observed as Asian/Pacific Islander Heritage Week.  The proposal was accepted and soon became an annual celebration.  It was in 1990 that extended the celebration into an entire month.  The month is meant to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in 1843 and the endless contributions of Asian Americans, such as the Chinese miners who died while helping to build the transcontinental railroad.

Throughout the history of our nation, Asian Pacific American service members have embodied the military core values for generations.  From the birth of our nation to the current Global War on Terrorism, Asian Pacific American service members have effectively provided strength and leadership in defending freedoms of the United States.

DMAVA celebrates the contributions of Asian Pacific American service members and their importance to the nation in the past, present and future.  

FACTS

Asian Americans

  • In 2006, there were an estimated 14.9 million U.S. residents who said they were Asian or Asian in contribution with one or more other races.  This group comprised about 5 percent of the total population.  California had the largest population (5 million) of this group. (U.S. Census Bureau)
  • There are 3.6 million Asians of Chinese descent.  Chinese Americans are the largest group followed by Filipinos (2.9 million), Asian Indians (2.7 million), Vietnamese (1.6 million), Koreans (1.5 million), and Japanese (1.2 million).    (U.S. Census Bureau)
  • Regarding education, 49 percent of single-race Asians 25 and older have a bachelor’s degree or higher.  This compares to 27 percent for all races 25 and older. (U.S. Census Bureau)
  • In 2002, Asian Americans owned 1.1 million businesses.  The rate of increase in the number Asian-owned businesses was about twice that of the national average for all businesses.  (U.S. Census Bureau)
  • After Spanish, Chinese is the second most widely spoken non-english language in the United States, with 2.5 million people age 5 and older who speak the language (U.S. Census Bureau)

Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders

  • In July 2006, 1 million U.S. residents said they were Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, or native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander in combination with one or more other races.  This group comprised 0.3 percent of the total population.  (U.S. Census Bureau)
  • In 2006, Hawaii had the largest population (275,000) of Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders (either alone or in combination with one or more other races), followed by California (260,000) and Washington state (49,000).  (U.S. Census Bureau)
  • Fourteen percent of single-race Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders 25 or older have at least a bachelor’s degree.  (U.S. Census Bureau)
  • In 2002, 28,948 Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders owned businesses, up 49 percent from 1997.  The rate of growth was more than three times the national average. (U.S. Census Bureau)
  • The median income of households headed by single-race Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders is $49,361.  (U.S. Census Bureau)

PEOPLE

Government

  • The first Asian-American U.S. representative was Dalip Singh Saund in 1956, a native of Punjab, India.  The first female Asian-American elected to Congress was Patsy Takemoto Mink in 1964, born in Maui, Hawaii.
  • The first female Asian-American Cabinet member was Elaine Chao, a native of Taiipei, Taiwan.  Chao was appointed secretary of labor in 2001.

Science and Medicine

  • The first individual to successfully clone the AIDS virus was Flossie Wond-Staal, a Chinese American, in 1984.
  • In 1949, An Wang, also Chinese American, was the first to invent the small iron ring that served as the core of computer memory, until a decade later when the microchip was invented.

Entertainment

  • The first Asian Academy Award winner was Haing Ngor, a native to Samrong Young, Cambodia.  Ngor won Best Supporting Actor of 1984 for his role in “the Killing Fields.” 
  • The first Asian-American network-news reporters were Japanese American Ken Kashiwahara and Chinese American Connie Chung in 1974.  In 1993, Chung became the first Asian American to be a nightly news anchor for a major network (CBS).

Sports

  • The first Korean and Asian-American player to be drafted in the first round of an NFL draft was Eugene Chung in 1992, selected by New England.
  • In 1974, Japanese American Wataru Misaka became the first Asian American to play in the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he played for the New York Knicks.

U

For Your Calendar

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 Uron.yuhas@use.salvationarmy.orgU.

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 Uwww.purpleheart.orgU or Uwww.djbentzscholarship.orgU.

 

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 Upaul.serdiuk@njdmava.state.nj.usU. 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, UYvonne.mays@ njatla.ang.af.milU or Connie Cisek, 609-562-0901, Uconnie.cisek@njmcgu.ang.af.milU

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, UYvonne.mays@ njatla.ang.af.milU or Connie Cisek, 609-562-0901, Uconnie.cisek@njmcgu.ang.af.milU.

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 Ugary.davidson@nj.ngb.army.milU.  

Honorable Mention

DMAVA is sponsoring a cell phone drive to "Help Prevent Domestic Violence" to aid battered women living in shelters. These phones will be refurbished and given to the women at risk to call 911 in an emergency. There is always a flood of cell phones in the fall (October is Domestic Violence Awareness month) and then throughout the rest of the year they receive very few, our drive will help correct that void.  The collection period will be May 12-23. We will accept working and non-working cell phones and all phone batteries and chargers.

Special Note: Before donating a cell phone, please delete all personal information and remove the phone's SIM card. This is for your protection of private information. The phones that are collected will be donated to three woman's shelters throughout the State. Drop off points for DMAVA Central will be the Security Desk in the lobby. Other DMAVA facility drop-off points will be located in the Human Resources Office or the Administrative offices. Both state employees and military personal may participate.

Additional information can be obtained from Paul Serdiuk, 609-530-6878.

 

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 Umonica.mcbrady@uscg.milU ; 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 Uhttp://www.projectevergreen.com/gcft/U 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 Uhttp://www.greyhound.com/deals/military_discounts.shtmlU 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, Uwww.battlemind.orgU .

 

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 Uwww.nj.gov./militaryU 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 Uwww.nj.gov/mvc/U 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.

For the Families

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 Uhttp://main.ppbaa.orgU 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 Uwparrinello@fsmc.orgU or call 973-538-5260, extension 326.  You can also contact Tammy Rosenthal, Director of child and Adolescent Services at Utrosenthal@fsmc.orgU 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: Uwww.grantham.edu/promo/freebluestar.phpU.

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:

Uwww.state.nj.us/dca/dow/depmilspouseasst.shtmlU

 

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

UAmanda.balas@us.army.milU 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 Umarie.durling@nj.ngb.army.milU.

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=troopsupportU.

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 Uhttp://www.NutterRun.comU 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.

 

TrentonThunder 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:

  1. Military I.D. card.
  2. Federal Department of Veteran Affairs medical I.D. card
  3. DD Form 214

Jewish War Vets taking Guard members, family to baseball game

From the desk of Marie Durling, Family Programs Specialist

The Jewish War Veterans of New Jersey would like to sponsor Soldiers/Airmen and their family members (total of 50 – first come, first served) for a baseball game at Newark's Riverfront Stadium on Sunday, May 25 at 1:35 p.m.

Included in the “price” is a hot dog, drink and chips.  If you would like to attend, please send the following information:  Soldier/Airmen's name, your address, phone number and number of tickets you need (please limit this to your significant other and children only).  The Jewish War Veterans have been extremely generous to N.J. National Guardsmen and their families by sponsoring these events so if you request tickets, please make every effort to attend.

Send requested information to:

JWV

NJ Dept Commander Sidney Lichter

96 Franklin St

Verona NJ 07044-1923.

Travel Help, Ideas

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 Uwww.afvclub.com/U 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, Uwww.shadesofgreen.orgU 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 Uwww.nj.gov/military/educationU.  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 Uhttps://www.nationalguardbenefits.comU; 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 – Uwww.legion.orgU – 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 Uwww.eang-nj.orgU.

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.

Veterans Information

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 Uwww.TurboTAP.orgU or email UTAPHelp@military-inc.comU.

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.

June 5-6, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. – Elks State Convention

June 11-13, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. – American Legion State Convention

June 18-20, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. – VFW State Convention, medal ceremony on June 19

 

Helmets to Hardhats

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:

 =================

Free guided tours of the Memorial are offered on the first Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

May 26, 11 a.m. – Memorial Day Ceremony at the N.J. Vietnam Veterans' Memorial.

====================

For further information call 1-800-648-VETS or visit Uwww.njvvmf.orgU.

 

 

   
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