New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
DMAVA Highlights » 18 May 2007

Volume 6, Number 20


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)



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



New Jersey Freedom Loans

What is a Freedom Loan?
* Up to $10,000
* Annual APR 6%
* Term: 5 years (no pre-payment penalty)
* Unsecured Loan (no collateral required)

Who is eligible to apply?
NJ residents who are:
* Members of the National Guard or Reserve
* Mobilized for one year or longer to fight in the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) - excluding routine training.

Or

* Served 90 or more consecutive days in the GWOT on federal or state active duty (excluding routing training) and have received orders extending cumulative active duty a year or longer.

How do I apply?
* Contact participating banks. Call or visit your local branch office to obtain an application.
* Guardmembers, Reservists, or family members with Power of Attorney must submit copies of current mobilization orders with the bank's Freedom Loan application.

Current participants:
Commerce Bank
1-888-751-9000

Credit Union of NJ
609-538-4061, ext. 401

First Morris Bank & Trust
1-888-530-2265

Manasquan Savings Bank
732-223-4450

North Jersey Federal Credit Union
1-888-78NJFCU

Peapack-Gladstone Bank (908)
719-BANK

Pennsville National Bank
856-678-6006

PNC
1-866-PNC-4USA

Sovereign Bank
1-877-391-6365

Sun National Bank
1-800-691-7701


Quote for the Week

No two men can be half an hour together but one shall acquire an evident superiority over the other.
- Samuel Johnson

My son, keep well thy tongue, and keep thy friend.
- Chaucer

Let us keep our mouths shut and our pens dry until we know the facts.
- Anton J. Carlson

Download PDF Version of this week's highlights
News for Your Views

 

News For Your Views

9th Annual Unity Day, June 14

Please join us on June 14 for the 9th Annual Unity Day, "Many Cultures, One Flag," being held at the JT2DC Training Facility, Ft. Dix.

Unity Day is held to enhance cross-cultural awareness and promote harmony among all members of the New Jersey National Guard.  This combined effort of Army and Air, State and Federal, community members and members of both Team McGuire and the Fort Dix Post contribute to the different ethnic and special emphasis groups being represented in the New Jersey National Guard.  This year's event will start off with a 3K Fun Run/Walk at 8:30 a.m.  Opening ceremonies will take place at 11:30 a.m. with a performance from the New Jersey Youth ChalleNGe Program Drill Team followed by the presentation of awards and additional entertainment throughout the event by Voices of Africa, United We Sing, O'Leary Irish Dancers, Red Hawk Indian Dancers, Bag Pipers, and the Rancocas Valley Regional High School Hollywood Steppers.

Multi-cultural displays and food samplings from 18 different ethnic groups from around the world will take place from noon to 3:30 p.m.  We encourage ALL members associated with the New Jersey National Guard to attend.  For more information, contact Capt. Lola Washington, State Equal Employment Manager, 609-562-0856.


JFHQ awards, decoration ceremony, May 25

Join the Joint Force Headquarters on May 25 at 11 a.m., 3650 Saylors Pond Road, Fort Dix, for an awards and dedication ceremony honoring the families of the four New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.


Come enjoy the surf and sun at Sea Girt

Summer is coming up and one of the great privileges of working for DMAVA and the National Guard is the access to the beach at the National Guard Training Center, Sea Girt.  If you want to sun yourself on the beach and romp in the ocean, here are the access criteria for Sea Girt. 
Individuals must present credentials to the security guard at the main gate of the training center.
            Military and military dependent ID card

    • N.J. National Guard members – current and retired
    • Current Reserve Component members based in N.J. – Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard
    • Active duty members based in N.J. – Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard

            State/Federal employee ID card

    • NJDMAVA employees – current and retired

            New Jersey State Police Badge/Shield

    • All NJSP – current and retired

            Other Law Enforcement Badge/Shield

    • All law enforcement officers based at the NGTC

            First Responders in the vicinity of NGTC – ID Card/Badge/Shield

    • Current police, fire, rescue squad/EMS located in Sea Girt, Manasquan, Spring Lake, Spring Lake Heights and Wall

Personnel in the categories above can get passes to bring friends and family when they accompany them on visits to the beach.  Each pass will admit all occupants of one car to the beach. Guests using passes may be asked to show a driver’s license or other photo ID at the guard gate. To get passes for NGTC, Sea Girt, see the following people:

NGTC – Eileen Foster, 732-974-5951
DMAVA, Lawrenceville – Gail Miller, 609-530-6911
JFHQ, Fort Dix – Zandra Ramcharitar, 609-562-0959

Individuals seeking discretionary passes (civic groups, veterans organizations, donors, etc.) should submit a request to The Director, National Guard Training Center, PO box 251, Sea Girt, NJ 08750 requesting the passes with the reason and justification.


Honor Guard program looking for people

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.
Teams are split geographically throughout the state and volunteers can stay busy.  In April 2007, the teams conducted 205 services for deceased veterans.  By May15, there were 120 funerals where the team performed their duties.  Retired Sgt. Maj. Ed Goetschius, who oversees the program, believes that there will be at least 2,000 services where the honor guard has served by the end of the year.
If you are interested in applying for the Honor Guard program, call Goetschius at 609-530-7090.


Air Force sets up claims office in Tuckerton armory for victims of fire

From the desk of retired Col. Stephen G. Abel, Deputy Commissioner for Veterans Affairs
The U.S. Air Force has set up a claims office at the Tuckerton Armory for individuals whose homes suffered damage during the recent wildfire.  It is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for claims to be filed.  The phone number is 609-296-2129, 609-296-0648 or 609-296-0671.


N.J. Korean War Commemoration Ceremony, July 27

The 2007 Korean War Commemoration Ceremony will take place on July 27 at 11 a.m. at the New Jersey Korean War Memorial, at Park Place/Boardwalk, near Brighton Park, Atlantic City.  Hosted by the New Jersey Korean War Veterans Association in cooperation with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, it will be the 54th Anniversary Commemoration Signing of the Korean War Armistice.  There will also be a presentation of the New Jersey Korean War Commemorative Medal to local Korean combat veterans.


Remembrance Day at the N.J. Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial

By Sibley Smith, Director of Education, Vietnam Era Educational Center
May 7 has been recognized as New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Day since 1991 when the State legislation enacted the law creating the special day.  This day honors the more than 200,000 New Jersey residents who served in the military during the Vietnam Era, from 1959 to 1975. 
At 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 7, 2007, the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation, with assistance from the DMAVA, held its annual Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Day ceremony at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Holmdel.
Approximately 400 people attended the event, which was held in the Memorial’s courtyard, surrounded by the circular, black granite wall bearing the names of 1,560 New Jerseyans whose lives were lost in the Vietnam War.
The ceremony began with a welcome address by Thomas P. Ford, secretary of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation.  The colors were posted by the Manalapan Police Department Honor Guard.  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by a group of students from Collier High School, Wickatunk.  The invocation was given by Father Dan Hesko of St. Catherine’s Church, Middletown.  Remarks in honor of New Jersey’s Vietnam Veterans were given by retired Col. Stephen G. Abel, Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Affairs. 
Following his remarks, Col. Abel joined fellow DMAVA representatives, Director of Veteran Services Gary Englert, retired CW4 Jack Stoffa and retired Sgt. Joe Nyzio along with Kimberly Bruss serving as Mistress of Ceremonies, in a ceremony to award New Jersey State medals.  Approximately 80 of New Jersey’s military veterans were presented with state medals, which included the Distinguished Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Korean Service Medal. 
Organizations placed wreaths beneath the red oak in the central courtyard of the Memorial which is the state tree of New Jersey while accompanied by the bagpipers of the Monmouth County Pipes & Drums.
After the benediction and retiring the colors, attendees enjoyed an open house at the adjacent Vietnam Era Educational Center, which includes a museum and research library.


Ways to observe Memorial Day

Are you looking for a way to observe Memorial Day?  Maybe you want to add a special way to remember those men and women who have died in our nation’s service.  Here is a list of various tributes to those many hometown heroes.
The New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes will be celebrating Memorial Day with ceremonies at the time and places listed below.  Everyone is invited to attend and honor our veterans.
Paramus – May 22 – 2 p.m.
Vineland – May 24 – 11 a.m.
Menlo Park – May 28 – 11 a.m.
Visit the Brig. Gen. William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery on May 26 for their observance of this special day which will begins at 11 a.m.
The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial will hold a Memorial Day ceremony on May 28 at 11 a.m. in the courtyard of the memorial.
The Trenton Vet Center is holding their annual Memorial Day Service May 23 at 11 a.m. at the center, 934 Parkway Ave., Ewing. Refreshments will be served after the ceremony.  They ask that you RSVP by May 21; call 609-882-5744 or e-mail Darryll.Johnson@med.va.gov.
The Millville Wheels and Wings Airshow 2007 will be held on Memorial Day Weekend – May 26-27 at the Millville Airport, Millville, N.J., featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
The National Memorial Day concert will be broadcast live on PBS from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol on May 27, 8-9:30 p.m.  Co-hosting will be Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna with guests including retired General Colin L. Powell, singer Natalie Cole, actress Dianne Wiest, country music singer Josh Turner, singer CeCe Winans and decorated U.S. Army World War II veteran and actor Charles Durning.  Performing throughout the evening will be the National Symphony Orchestra.


Latest news on DMAVA-Vets Home Motorcycle ride

The employees, Soldiers, and Airmen of DMAVA are planning a bike ride. The date for this event is June 16. Participating motorcyclists plan to visit the three veterans’ homes and interact with the residents during the layovers. Lt. Col. Walter R. Nall is coordinating this event for DMAVA. The headcount form is available via DMAVANET in the HRD section under statewide activities.  The DMAVA Website link is http://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/Veterans_Ride.pdf.  If participating, please return the completed headcount form to Lt. Col. Nall later than May 7.  Interested riders may contact him at 609-530-6841 or e-mail walter.nall@njdmava.state.nj.us.


For Your Calendar   

Invitation to the Solar Energy Dedication

Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Reith invites everyone to the Solar Energy Dedication ceremony on Wednesday, May 23, at 1 p.m. at the Homeland Security Center of Excellence building, Lawrenceville.  If you plan on attending, please RSVP to Angela Como, 609-530-6780.  Dress for the dedication is ACUs for military and business attire for civilians.


Career Fair on the Battleship, May 24

There will be a “RecruitMilitary Career Fair” on May 24, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. aboard the Battleship New Jersey, 62 Battleship Place, Camden, N.J.  This is a hiring event for veterans with a wide variety of work experience; men and women who are transitioning from active duty, members of the National Guard and reserves, and military spouses.
It is produced by RecruitMilitary in cooperation with HireVetsFirst, a unit of the United States Department of Labor; The American Legion; and Philadelphia Newspapers.
To pre-register and see the names of employers attending the fair, go to: http://www.recruitmilitary.com/careerfairs/careerfairs3.asp?CFID=25.


Military Appreciation Day in Seaside Heights, June 2

Soldiers, Airmen and their family members are invited to attend “Military Appreciation Day” at the Casino Pier in Seaside Heights on June 2, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.  The waterpark opens at 10 a.m. and the rides at noon.
Check in through the side entrance of the waterpark on 800 Ocean Terrace and Grant Ave.  You will be required to show a Uniformed Services military ID to get ride bracelets for your family members. Bracelets are good for unlimited rides (excluding the go-carts and skyscraper).   Each family will receive one debit card valued at $25 for playing games at the Casino Pier.
Contact your local FAC or Marie Durling, 609-562-0739, in the State Family Programs office for brochures or more information.


Blood Drive coming to Fort Dix, DMAVA on June 11 and 12

New Jersey is once again facing a severe blood shortage.  We are requesting DMAVA State and Federal employees help offset the more than 74,000 pint shortage.
The second annual DMAVA Governor’s “Save 3 Lives” Blood Drive will be conducted during a two-day period, beginning on June 11 between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Fort Dix Joint Training and Training Development Center (JTTDC), Stow Bay 3, and continuing on June 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lawrenceville Armory Cafeteria.
The following Blood Drive Coordinators should be contacted to schedule your blood donation time. 
Fort Dix JFHQ: Connie Cisek (ANG Personnel), 609-562-0901 or Master Sgt. Tony DeLuccio (ARNG Personnel), 609-562-0858.
ChalleNGe: Mr. Sean Van Lew, 609-562-0571.
JT2DC: Sgt. Yashica Carver, 609-562-0520.
DMAVA Central Office: Kathy Wierzbicki, 609-530-6979.
Mercer Army Aviation Support Facility #1: 1st Sgt. Charlie Bethea, 609-575-6726 or 1st Sgt. Harold Klingler, 609-530-4751.
Donor eligibility guideline information is available at 1-866-2GIVENJ or www.communitybloodcouncil.org.


DMAVA/JFHQS Summer picnic is set for June 22

Come have fun at the DMAVA/JFHQS Summer-Fiesta 07!  The summer picnic will be held on June 22 at the Lawrenceville armory at noon.  The cost is $10 with a menu of chicken, sausage, hot dogs, hamburgers, various salads, baked means, and beverages.  The committee is asking employees to contribute desserts.  Dress is appropriate summer attire.
Attendance is not mandatory but if employees chose not to attend it will be a normal and full workday at their duty station. The picnic follows the TAG’s Town Hall meeting and the DMAVA awards ceremony, both at the armory.
See your department representative to pay no later than June 15.
DMAVA: Darlene Laarz – 609-530-6992, Karen Wallace – 609-530-6766, Dawn Esposito – 609-530-6717 or Tina Taylor – 609-530-7170
Fort Dix: Marie Durling – 609-562-0739
HSCOE: Kevin Hearn – 609-530-7069


Retirement Dinners
Retirement dinner for Col. Brian Webster on June 9

You are invited to say goodbye to Col. Brian “Spyder” Webster at his retirement dinner which will be held on June 9 at the Sheraton Hotel, Boulevard’s Café, 2nd floor, Atlantic City.  Cocktail hour is from 5-6 p.m. and dinner is from 6-10 p.m.   Cost is $40 per person and the dinner selection is chicken or beef.  Send your RSVP to Capt. Yvonne Mays, 609-645-6206 or Connie Cisek, 609-562-0901, no later than June 1.  Dress is business casual.


Wave goodbye to Tom Flynn on June 21

There will be a retirement dinner for Tom Flynn of the DMAVA Fiscal Division on June 21 at 4 p.m. at Mastoris Restaurant, Bordentown.  Cost is $30 per person with a large choice of entrees to include Chicken Parmigiana, roast turkey broiled flounder, roast beef, baked ham and others. For more information or reservations, call Tom DeShields at 609-530-6718. Reservations are due no later than June 14. 


Honorable Mention

Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline established by Army

From the American Forces Press Service
One of the latest outcomes from the upheaval at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center has been the establishment of the “Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline.”
This toll-free call center was opened on March 19 to help wounded Soldiers and their family members to get information or assistance with medical or other issues.
The Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline can be reached from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday at 1-800-984-8523. As additional personnel are trained to receive calls and refer them to the proper organization or agency for resolution, the hotline hours of operation will expand to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, officials said.


ChalleNGe looking for a few good mentors

ChalleNGe needs a few good men & women, ages 21 and up.
If you are willing to:
1.  Commit to 14 months of contact with a cadet who will be selected by you
2.   Contact your cadet monthly with sound advice and guidance
3.  Work with your cadet on an employment/career placement plan
4.  Make yourself available to discuss and give input to resolving real life issues with your cadet -
then, call ChalleNGe at 609-562-0577 and request an application. As a ChalleNGe mentor, you will spend 14 months giving sound advice to a cadet and helping him or her find placement resources within their respective communities. You can visit your cadet at ChalleNGe, which is located on Fort Dix, as well as take them for off-site visits. A 4-hour mandatory training is provided at Fort Dix upon commitment to your cadet.
ChalleNGe RPM (recruitment, placement & mentoring) staff are readily available to assist you and your cadet in this endeavor.  If you have any questions, contact RPM at 609-562-0580.
Being a ChalleNGe mentor is a very rewarding experience and provides you with an opportunity to assist in changing a youth’s life forever. 


Microsoft software available for Army Guardsmen

The Microsoft Home Use Program (HUP) is eligible to all Army personnel including, active duty, reserve, Guard, and civilians currently employed by the Army.
The program allows individuals to get a licensed copy of Microsoft Office desktop applications to install and use on a home computer.
Army Guard members taking advantage of this offering are responsible for paying the administrative costs for obtaining the software and may use the software as desired. Guard members can only obtain one version of the software at any given time.
Go to this website for more details: https://ascp.monmouth.army.mil/scp/software/ hup.jsp


“Troops to Teachers” program helps service members become teachers

Troops to Teachers (www.ProudtoServeAgain.com) is administered by the Department of Defense and Department of Education and managed by the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES). The program helps eligible military personnel begin second careers as public school teachers by providing referral assistance, placement services, and - for those electing to teach at high-need schools - financial stipends and bonuses.
Members of the National Guard and Reserves with 10 or more years of service are eligible for the program, provided they commit for an additional three years.


Hire A Hero – new program to help find jobs

HQ Group, who currently runs the Helmets to Hardhats program, is expanding!  Hire A Hero is our newest initiative that helps transitioning military personnel, Guard members and Reservists find jobs with all industries.
Hire A Hero is a non-profit initiative that is powered by the Armed Forces Support Foundation.  To find out more about these programs, visit the following Web sites: www.hireahero.com/ or http://armedforcessupportfoundation.org/


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 Patty Smith at patty.smith@njdmava.state.nj.us or call 609-530-6847.


 For the Families

FRG holding reunion briefings for families

From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family Assistance Specialist
Here is the information for the upcoming Reunion Briefings for the families of Company D 250th BSB and Troop C 5-117th RSTA.
Co D 250th BSB FRG – May 19 10 a.m. Bordentown Armory
5-117th RSTA (South) FRG – May 20 11:30 a.m. Vineland Armory
5-117th RSTA (North) FRG – May 22 6:30 p.m. West Orange Armory


Grants offered to help military children attend summer activities

Summer is coming and now is the time that many kids will be signing up for camps, recreational activities and lessons, etc.  Unfortunately, because of increased deployments and the financial and emotional stress associated with them, many military families might find these activities difficult to arrange.  This is why The Women’s Opportunity Center at the YMCA of Burlington County in Mt. Laurel, N.J., is pleased to remind military members that grant funds are available not only for financial emergencies and crisis situations, but also to provide recreational and stress relieving activities such as camps and classes for their children. 
This grant, provided by the Department of Community Affairs is available to spouses and families of deployed military personnel in all branches of service in the State who are income eligible. 
For more information and an application, contact Fawn Mutschler at 609-543-6200, ext. 325 or e-mail wocmilitarygrant@ymca-bc.org.


Grants available for military children to participate in programs

From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family Assistance Specialist
Our Military Kids, Inc. is offering $500 grants to ensure that the children (grades kindergarten though 12) of deployed and severely injured Reserve and National Guard personnel can afford to participate in activities such as youth sports, fine arts and tutoring programs that are so important in their young lives during this stressful time. For more information, see their website at: www.ourmilitarykids.org/index.html.


Marriage Enrichment Seminar planned for September

By Marie Durling, Family Programs Specialist
While the Marriage Enrichment Seminar for May is booked up, the Family Programs office is taking registration forms for couples who would like to get on the waiting list for the next weekend.
The next seminar will be in September, date and location to be announced.  These Marriage Enrichment Seminars are not only informative and enriching for couples who attend, they are FREE to the soldier and his/her spouse.   At this time, the Seminars are funded for Army National Guard Soldiers only.


Youth Camp Forms Available

The thirteenth Annual New Jersey National Guard Youth Camp will be held July 29 to Aug. 4 at the New Jersey National Guard Training Center, Sea Girt.
Applications are available at: www.state.nj.us/military/familysupport/youth_camp.html
Children, ages 9-13 are invited to apply.  The camp fee is still $100.  Campers must be children, grandchildren or legal dependents of an active or retired member of the New Jersey National Guard.  A variety of volunteer positions are available. For more information, call the Family Programs Office at (609) 562-0668.


Deployed Military Spouses Assistance Program Award

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 Readiness Council offers Tier I and II grants

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 and Entertainment

Trenton Vets Center, Trenton Thunder offer “cheap” seats

The Trenton Vet Center with support from our community partner, Trenton Thunder Baseball, will sponsor baseball tickets at a special rate for Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard, separated, and retired veterans.  A regular $10 season ticket will be offered at $7for veterans and family members.  The primary purpose of the program is to allow veterans and their families an opportunity to experience Trenton Thunder baseball due to their service and sacrifice for our country.
Proof of Veteran Status:  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.


“Support Our Troops” Motorcycle Ride, October 13

Like to ride motorcycle?  Here is an opportunity to ride and support servicemembers and their families at the same time.  Join the 3rd Annual “Support Our Troops” Motorcycle Run on October 13 (rain date of October 14).
Registration is from 10-11 a.m. at the Tri-Towne Plaza, Route 70, Marlton and the ride departs at 11:15 a.m. The route is to travel the Pine Barrens to Sweetwater Casino Restaurant, Sweetwater (Hammonton mailing address). The run will be approximately 48 miles (one way). Please come with a full tank of gas.  Cost of the ride is a donation of $15 per rider and $5 per passenger.
Proceeds benefit the Freedom Alliance Foundation which provide:

  • Educational scholarships to the children of America’s military heroes that have given the ultimate sacrifice.
  • For the injured in our hospitals pre-paid long-distance phone cards, gift cards for clothing, food, toiletries, books, and magazines.
  • Funding for family members to travel to see and encourage their loved one.

For more information contact John Atkinson at 856-596-9100, or go to www.citikids.org/freedom.htm, for local run information or to the national site -  www.freedomalliance.org.


Savino Memorial Golf tourney scheduled for Sept. 17

The 11th Annual Lt. Col. Dave Savino Memorial Golf Tournament will be held on Sept. 17 at the Fountain Green Golf Course, Ft. Dix.   Shotgun start is at 8 a.m., with a two-person scramble (best ball).  Cost to play is $85 per person, with checks made payable to “Lt. Col. Dave Savino Memorial Fund.”  Call Senior Master Sgt. Mike Balas at 609-330-4069 or Connie Cisek at 609-562-0901 for more information.  Proceeds from the tournament go to help fellow Guardsmen in need.


Enlisted Association holding golf outing Oct. 22

The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of New Jersey is holding a golf outing on Oct. 22 at Gambler’s Ridge Golf Club, 121 Burlington Path Road, Cream Ridge, NJ.  All proceeds from the event go to the association’s scholarships.
Registration and a continental breakfast begins the day at 7:30 a.m. The play is two-person best ball with a modified shotgun start at 8:45.  A donation of $90 includes greens fees, cart and luncheon.  There will be prizes for first and second place teams for the low gross, closest to the pin on all par 3’s and the longest drive.
For more information call Mike Amoroso at 609-562-0754. Make checks payable to EANG-NJ (Golf) and mail to Leon Cisek, PO Box 365, Wrightstown NJ 08562 no later than Oct. 15.


Here’s To The Heroes

Here’s to the Heroes provides a single day’s free admission to any one SeaWorld or Busch Gardens park, Sesame Place, Adventure Island or Water Country USA for the service member and as many as three direct dependents.
Any active duty, active reserve, ready reserve service member or Guard member is entitled to free admission under the program. He or she need only register, either online at www.herosalute.com or in the entrance plaza of a participating park, and show a Department of Defense photo ID.


Scholarship, Education News

Free SAT/ACT Offer Extended

A group of NFL, NFL Europe, AFL, and CFL football players have announced they are extending their sponsorship of the SAT/ACT training to all military families.
The sponsorship allows any military person (active, Guard, reserve, or retired) to request as many programs as they need for the students in their lives.  There is a secure website to confirm a person’s military status before directing the user to the software order site.  Logon to::
www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/portal/page/itc/MHF/MHF_DETAIL_0?current_id=20.20.100.30.0.0.0.0.0
Programs are shipped to domestic U.S. addresses and APO addresses.  The sponsorship covers the purchase price of $199 and the family pays only the shipping and handling of $9.95.


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, veterans’ dependents and members of the American Legion family.  When you get on the site, click on “Scholarship Information” in the “Useful Links” block.


AMVETS, U of Phoenix team up for military members, family’s education

From the AMVETS Web site - www.amvets.org
AMVETS and the University of Phoenix are proud to announce a joint venture to help veterans, active duty service members, reservists, Guardsmen and family members obtain a high-quality online education.
Together, the organizations will award 25 scholarships nationwide this year. Each scholarship will consist of a $4,000 credit with the university, which is the nation’s premier educational institution for adult learning.
All veterans, service members and family members are eligible to apply.


VFW Scholarships available to veterans, family members

Go to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Web site – www-vfw.org – to find information on their three scholarship programs.  Two, Patriots Pen and Voice of Democracy, have a deadline of Nov. 1, 2007.  The third program is scholarships for VFW members and its deadline is December 31.  Click on “Programs,” then “VFW Scholarship Programs” to find the information.


Scholarship information on BBB Military Line

There are many scholarships available to military family members. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Military Line suggests that you not pay someone to find scholarships for you. Why? Because these researchers will use the same sources on the internet that you will use, so why pay them to do so? For suggestions on where to find scholarships for which you might be eligible, visit: www.enewsbuilder.net/cbbb military/e_article-000694547.cfm?x=b8r7v3.
For information to help military families avoid financial pitfalls, visit: http://military.bbb.org


Association News


AUSA dinner on May 22 will honor Iraqi and Afghan war vets

The Northern New Jersey Chapter 1502 of the Association of the United States Army together with the Federation of Indian Associations will host honor Iraqi and Afghanistan War Veterans at our Spring Dinner.
The dinner will be held at the Royal Albert's Palace on 1050 King George's Road in Fords, N.J. on May 22 at 5:30 p.m.
The guest speaker will be Col. R. David McNeil, commander of Fort Dix. He will be speaking about Fort Dix's ongoing support for Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
The cost of the dinner is free for all AUSA members and all veterans of OIF and OEF. We are asking all non-AUSA members for a $10 donation. Uniform for the evening is mess dress, dress blues or civilian business attire. Please RSVP by May 17 to retired Col. Richard F. Pleachner, 732-549-1535.


Enlisted Association of the National Guard of New Jersey

Give our state a larger voice by becoming a member of the Enlisted Association.  The increased numbers will help us speak on all legislative issues that will benefit you and your families. The association works hard for you at the Federal & State level on all important issues. Visit the web site EANG-NJ.org, click on Become a Member for the application and find out more about what the association does.


NGANJ has busy calendar for members in 2007

The National Guard Association of New Jersey will be conducting the following events.  All members (active and retirees) are encouraged to participate:

  • Annual Business Meeting - the annual Business Meeting will be conducted on May 19, 2007 at the Timmermann Conference Center, Fort Dix.  The meeting will begin at 8 a.m. (sign-in begins at 7:30 a.m.) and will conclude at noon.  The attire for this meeting is “business casual”.  This will be an opportunity for all members to see the four classrooms that were dedicated to New Jersey’s fallen Soldiers.
  • NGANJ President’s Golf Tournament - this tournament will be held at Falcon Creek Golf Course at McGuire AFB, on June 4.  This will be a “shotgun” start beginning at 11 a.m.  The course limit is 144 players, so early reservations are suggested.  A hot buffet dinner will follow at approximately 5 p.m. at the McGuire NCO Club, located across the street from the course.  This tournament benefits the “Scholarship Fund”.  Last year, with your help, we were able to award nine $1,000 scholarships to deserving students.  This year, we hope to meet or exceed that goal. 
  • National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) 129th Conference - this conference will be held in San Juan, Puerto Rico from August 25-27, 2007.  The New Jersey delegation will be staying at the Caribe Hilton (15 minutes from airport).  Our hotel is located on the beach, has a great pool for the family and is located close to the convention center (10 minutes).  We have reserved 30 rooms on a first come, first gets basis.  Additional information and registration forms will be coming out shortly.  If you are interested, please contact Capt. Jose Maldonado.
  • NGANJ Website - The above information is posted on the NGANJ website.  If you need copies of the forms, specific contacts or additional information, please go to the website at:  www.nganj.org.

Veterans Information

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 11,12, 13

Bridgewater Commons Mall

August 8, 9, 10

Newport Centre Mall

September 12, 13*, 14

Livingston Mall

*Medal ceremonies begin at 10:30 a.m. on these dates.
The kiosk will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the identified dates.
During the month of June the kiosk will travel to the New Jersey Elks Convention (May 31-June 1), the American Legion Convention (June 6-9) and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Convention (June 13-16).


Delaware Valley Vietnam Vets looking for volunteers

The Donald W. Jones Veterans’ Flag Memorial is looking for volunteers to come out and help the Delaware Valley Vietnam Veterans plant flags to honor veterans on June 8 starting at 9 a.m. at Falls Community Park, 9125 Millcreek Road, Levittown, Penn.  There will be a free concert all day June 9 starting at 11 a.m. with performances by a variety of music groups.  On June 10 there will be a motorcycle rally and memorial ceremony starting at noon.  For more information, call David at 215-669-8430 or Ed at 215-945-3475.


N.J. Vietnam Veterans Memorial

N.J. Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and Vietnam Era Educational Center's upcoming events
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Beginning May 5, free guided tours of the Memorial will be offered on the first Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
   
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