By Terri Moon Cronk
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2017 Service members eligible to opt into the Blended Retirement System in 2018 can now take a free course to learn to use the online comparison calculator to aid in determining whether the new BRS or the legacy retirement system is a better choice for their circumstances, Defense Department officials said.

The calculator provides individual military retirement benefit estimates for service members who are eligible to opt into the new system in 2018, allowing them to compare options under both systems.

The Defense Department joins the nation in honoring the commitment, sacrifices and contributions families of service members make every day in support of the military and the nation.

As the nation marks Warrior Care month in November, the Defense Department honors the courage of wounded, ill or injured service members, and highlights the programs that support their return to duty or transition to the civilian community.

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2016 - Walgreens pharmacies join the TRICARE retail pharmacy network on Dec. 1, 2016, while CVS pharmacies, including those in Target stores, will leave the network on the same day, according to the Defense Health Agency. 

"The network will still have more than 57,000 locations across the country," Dr. George Jones, DHA's Chief of Pharmacy Operation, said in a release. "About 98 percent of beneficiaries still have a network pharmacy within 5 miles of their home."

By Terri Moon Cronk
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2016 - First Lady Michelle Obama hosted nearly 200 service members, spouses, children, veterans and wounded warriors at this year's annual White House holiday décor preview as part of a Joining Forces initiative celebration. 

"For the past eight years, celebrating the holidays and having you all be the first that see the decorations … has been one of our favorite White House traditions," the first lady said. 

The dates shown are from the United States Post Office.  You should verify with your local Post Office for services available, date changes, and to acquire the appropriate United States Customs forms, FREE Express and Priority shipping supplies.

From USPS.com

If you’re mailing or shipping holiday cards and gifts, for Hanukah, Kwanza, Christmas, or other holiday traditions, find the deadline for getting cards and packages sent on time by reviewing the 2016 Holiday Shipping Dates below.

By Mike Casey
November 25, 2016

FORT LEAVENWORTH, Kan. -- The Army is picking up the pace to make more training mobile applications available for Soldiers' smartphones and computer tablets.

Recently, a team of Soldiers and civilians at Fort Eustis, Virginia, started using software to ensure Army mobile apps meet government security requirements and other standards.

by Maj. John Callahan
November 18, 2016

TOGIAK, Alaska - In a rare daytime appearance, Santa and about 50 of his elves - including Alaska Gov. Bill Walker and First Lady Donna Walker - came early this year to visit Christmas cheer upon the schoolchildren of this remote village in Southwest Alaska.

The early visit was made possible by the Alaska National Guard's Operation Santa Claus, now in its 60th year. Each year since 1956, volunteers have come together to process and package donated Christmas toys, school supplies, books and staple foods. Most of these "elves" are affiliated with the Alaska Army or Air National Guard; others step forward from local businesses and community groups. Alaska Air National Guard crews then fly the elves and their collected goodies to a selected handful of villages a year.

By Petty Officer First Class Gary A. Prill,
U.S. Fleet Forces Command Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- United States Fleet Forces Command began a six-month pilot program Oct. 29 with the pre-launch of the Navy's newest tool to counter destructive decisions, the LiveSafe smartphone application.

The pilot program will allow Sailors and their families assigned to Hampton Roads, Virginia and Rota, Spain a chance to download and interact with the application prior to its release. 

NAVADMIN 219/16 now makes it a requirement to submit and have your TA Command Approved 14 days prior to your course start date for all classes starting on or after January 1st, 2017!

So, if you are considering taking classes starting Monday January 2nd, 2017 you will need to have submitted and have your request Command approved by the 19th of December!

Some things in healthcare just defy logical explanation. For example, why in an era where we can alter human genes using CRISPR, why are we still using loose leafs of paper to document something as important as one’s immunizations? In other words, why doesn’t our health system place more emphasis on getting these “simple” things right? At Zobreus, we’re committed to doing exactly that. We’ve built technology that allows any clinic to easily upload your shot data to a centralized portal. And instantly, those vaccination records are available to you on your mobile device. All of this in our gorgeous, award-winning user interface.

By Jim Garamone
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Nov. 23, 2016  Tomorrow isnt Thanksgiving for Americas enemies.

While the vast majority of Americans will be sitting down with family for a fall feast, hundreds of thousands of U.S. service members will be on guard around the world, ensuring their fellow citizens enjoy a day of peace.  

For them, it is another duty day.

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Nov. 22, 2016 — On Oct. 21, the Defense Department launched a new call and outreach center that offers confidential peer support to active duty service members, National Guardsmen, reservists and family members through 24/7 chat, phone and text. 

The DoD “BeThere” peer support call and outreach center is staffed by peers who are veteran service members and family members of veterans, and aims to provide support for everyday problem-solving of career and general life challenges.

Release No: 115 
Nov. 22, 2016 

By Staff Sgt. Alexx Pons
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs 

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" – The Air Force Personnel Center is currently accepting nominations for the Air Force Association Joan Orr Air Force Spouse of the Year Award.

This award honors significant contributions made by non-military spouses of Air Force military members. The nominee’s spouse must be an active duty Air Force, Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve member.

Release No: 114 
Nov. 21, 2016 

By Staff Sgt. Alexx Pons
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs 

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" - Air Force Personnel Center officials have nominated four Airmen for the 2016 Government Employees Insurance Company Military Service Award.

The categories and nominees are as follows:

(From the MILITARY ONESOURCE November 2016 Newsletter)

Military service is characterized by hard work and sacrifice, and families give service members the love and support they need to function well and stay mission ready.

November is Military Family Month, and we salute the strength and vibrancy of our military families. There are also many services through the DoD and Military OneSource to help keep families healthy and strong. Here are some highlights:

(From the MILITARY ONESOURCE November 2016 Newsletter)

The April tax deadline may seem a long way off, but there are things you can do now to get ready. Military OneSource offers free tax preparation and filing services to help you approach tax season with confidence. These services are available to service members and eligible family.

This assistance is especially valuable this year since the IRS made two major changes for filing in 2017 –

(From the MILITARY ONESOURCE November 2016 Newsletter)

Adoption can be rewarding for everyone involved. It can also raise a lot of questions. How do I get started? Does it cost a lot of money? What is the adoption process like? Whether you are just starting out or pursuing a kinship or stepparent adoption, Military OneSource can help. Call Military OneSource any time at 800-342-9647 to ask for an adoption consultation.

By Army 1st Lt. Daniel Johnson
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division

QAYYARAH WEST AIRFIELD, Iraq, Nov. 21, 2016 - Smoke rose in the distance from an oil field set on fire during the battle between Iraqi forces and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant as Army Sgt. Addison Owen stood outside his tent. Owen, an infantryman with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, is no stranger to Iraq; this is his second time deployed to the country. 

On his first deployment he fought beyond the oil field, but now he is part of a multinational effort to assist the Iraqi forces.

On Veterans Day, November 11th, we're inviting our veterans and active duty military to enjoy a free entrée* from our favorites below. Don't forget that family members dining with them enjoy 10% off of their meals.

Olive Garden Free Veteran's Day Meals 2015

DALLAS - Holiday shoppers can budget easy this year when they shop at Army & Air Force Exchange Service, which, for a limited time, is offering fee-free layaway on computers, laptops, tablets and notebooks - items that are not normally eligible for layaway.

From now until Dec. 14, the Exchange will waive its standard $3 service fee for all layaway purchases that are paid in full within 30 days and picked up on time. Layaway will not be offered for computers, laptops, tablets and notebooks purchased Nov. 27-28.

In proclaiming November as Military Family Month, President Barack Obama urged Americans to show enduring gratitude to military families and their loved ones for contributing to the nation's legacy. Obama said "their courage serves as a model of character and distinction, and their devotion to our country must be met with the recognition it deserves." 

Learn more in the Defense.gov special report, Military Family Support: http://www.defense.gov/News/Special-Reports/1115_familysupport

By David Vergun
Army News Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2014 - President Barack Obama awarded the Medal of Honor to Union Army 1st Lt. Alonzo H. Cushing yesterday for helping to stop Confederate Army Maj. Gen. George E. Pickett's Charge at Gettysburg on July 3, 1863.

Helen Loring Ensign accepted the medal during the ceremony, held in the White House's Roosevelt Room, on behalf of Cushing, her first cousin, twice removed. Some 24 other descendants were present as well. 

By Jim Garamone
DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2014 - First Lady Michelle Obama and an all-star cast hosted military children at the White House today for a workshop in advance of the taping of a concert for the PBS "In Performance at the White House" series.

Country legend Willy Nelson, rapper Common, Navy vet and songwriter Ted Peterson and Army Sgt. Christiana Ball, a singer who won the Army's Rising Star competition, joined the first lady in the East Room. Robert Santelli, the executive director of the Grammy Museum, moderated the discussion. 

By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2013 - Real warriors ask for help when they need it. Like retired Army Maj. Ed Pulido, who sought out the help he and his family needed after he was wounded in Baqubah, Iraq.

Pulido's vehicle hit a roadside bomb in August 2004. He suffered shrapnel wounds to the left side of his body and broke his knee in three places. Surgeons were unable to repair the damage to his leg, and it was amputated almost two months after he was wounded.

Katie Couric has a special upcoming taping and we would love to have you be a part of our live studio audience. If you are in the NYC area and would like to attend a taping on the afternoon of December 18th, email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. In the subject line of the email, write MILITARY WIFE and in the body let me know your first and last name and a contact number to reach you at. I look forward to hearing from you!

Jenny Rodriguez
Katie Audience Coordinator | 1iota Productions, LLC

E:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. P: 212-456-4644
W: http://www.1iota.com

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2013 - Today, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy joined with a coalition of private-sector partners from the telecommunications industry to launch "Warriors 4 Wireless," a new nonprofit program aimed at connecting veterans and returning service members to jobs in the rapidly growing wireless telecommunications industry.

A White House release said the program includes stakeholders from Joining Forces -- a national initiative that provides opportunities and support to military members and their families -- as well as from the private sector, the federal government, the U.S. military, and industry trade associations committed to scaling successful training models for veterans with wireless-relevant skills.

Departments of Veterans Affairs
/Housing and Urban Development

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2013 - The Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development today announced that a new national report shows a 24-percent drop in homelessness among veterans since 2010.

The report also showed an 8 percent reduction between January 2012 and January 2013. The decline keeps U.S. government plans on track to meet the goal of ending veterans' homelessness in 2015.

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2013 - Reading, writing and arithmetic might be easier for some people than others, but for service members and veterans with traumatic brain injuries, returning to school can be challenging.

Whether it's attending college, technical school or honing skills to re-enter the workplace, service members and veterans now have access to a comprehensive guide that covers topics from A to Z to help them go back to school, said Navy Lt. Cdr. Cathleen Shields, acting director of education at the Veterans Brain Injury Center.

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2013 - While programs are in place to combat predatory lending practices that target service members and their families, better rules and enforcement are needed, witnesses told a Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee yesterday.

Predatory lending practices impact not only a service member's financial readiness, but also mission readiness, witnesses told lawmakers in a hearing about the lending practices targeted towards the military.

They have a mobile Christmas app which they believe would benefit spouses of military personal either deployed or away from their family during the Christmas holiday. The app will create a Christmas video of Santa and his reindeer coming to the family's home.

The video will begin with a jolly Santa Claus flying across the sky with his reindeer, then landing on the roof of the user's home. Once inside, Santa will be shown placing gifts under the tree and writing the letter to the children before walking over to the plate of cookies and taking a bite. After a final farewell, Santa disappears back into his sleigh and heads into the night.

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2013 - Service members' families also serve the nation and are the force behind the total force, a senior Defense Department official said yesterday.

"Our military members are as effective as they can be because of the support their families provide them," Barbara Thompson, director of DOD's office of family policy and children and youth told American Forces Press Service and the Pentagon Channel. "[DOD] wants to make sure the people who are important in the lives of our service members -- spouses, children, parents, partners, aunts, uncles, siblings and cousins -- are part of the military family."

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2013 - Defense Department and Transportation Security Administration officials today announced a partnership to expand "TSA Precheck" expedited screening benefits to all U.S. armed forces service members, including those serving in the Coast Guard, Reserves and National Guard, during their official or leisure travel.

As a result of the agreement, these individuals will be able to enjoy the benefits of the program at the 100 participating airports across the country beginning Dec. 20, officials said.

From a Defense Commissary Agency News Release

FORT LEE, Va., Nov. 12, 2013 - Cashiers at military commissaries soon will begin scanning customers' Defense Department ID cards as part of the checkout process, Defense Commissary Agency officials said.

The commissary here, where DeCA has its headquarters, became the first store to scan ID cards Oct. 22 as the first part of a rollout throughout the agency that began Nov. 10 and will be completed by mid-January, officials said.

Departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs

WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2013 - The departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs reaffirmed their commitment to serve and care for the nation's military veterans in a joint message issued by Acting Undersecretary of Defense Jessica L. Wright and Undersecretary of Veterans Affairs for Benefits Allison A. Hickey.

The message reads as follows:

Defense Intelligence Agency

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2013 - Two extraordinary groups of people will be honored today during a ceremony at the Defense Intelligence Agency's headquarters at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling here.

Four heroes will be inducted into the DIA Patriots Memorial and three former employees will receive the agency's Torch Bearers Award. DIA will add four names to its Patriots Memorial, which commemorates DIA employees and others who have died in service to the United States and commemorates their exceptional sacrifice in support of DIA's mission.

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2013 - Every day is Veterans Day in the federal sector's quest to help former servicemen and women find employment, Labor Secretary Thomas E. Perez said yesterday during an event to honor to the nation's military veterans.

At the department's annual veterans' recognition, Perez said federal agencies working together have made significant strides in helping veterans find jobs, but work remains to be done.

By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service

COLUMBUS, Ga., Nov. 6, 2013 - Healthy military families are essential to guaranteeing the health of the overall force, the country's senior noncommissioned officer said here today.

Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan B. Battaglia, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife, Lisa, addressed Military Family Summit attendees at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center here.

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2013 - In a show of commitment and support to those who serve alongside uniformed service members, 60 new corporations joined the Military Spouse Employment Partnership in an induction ceremony here today.

With a prolific career in both government and the private sector, Frank Vollrath, assistant secretary of defense for readiness and force management, praised MSEP's global success rate.

By Nick Simeone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2012 - The Defense Department and South Carolina officials are notifying military members and families who paid state income taxes there that they may have been victims of information/identity theft as a result of several recent cyber intrusions.

South Carolina's Department of Revenue reported nearly four million Social Security numbers and several hundred thousand credit and debit card numbers belonging to current and former taxpayers may have been stolen during cyber intrusions in August and September.

U.S. Army Public Health Command Public Affairs Office

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md., Nov. 28, 2012 - U.S. Army Public Health Command headquartered here played a significant public health role in the aftermath of the March 11, 2011, Japanese earthquake and tsunami.

The command's responders monitored radiation levels from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, checked the safety of water and food and assessed search-and-rescue dogs coming into the country to assist in finding the missing.

By Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Scott Whiting
Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C., Nov. 28, 2012 - Christmas is right around the corner, and with the holidays comes an influx of mail sent to service members stationed overseas.

The United States Postal Service recently released their deadlines for ensuring mail sent overseas arrives in time for the busy holiday season.

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Nov. 16, 2012) --- Special agents from the Army Criminal Investigation Command are once again warning Internet users worldwide to be extra vigilant and not to fall prey to Internet scams or impersonation fraud -- especially scams promising true love, but only end up breaking hearts and bank accounts.

Criminal Investigation Command, known as CID, continues to receive hundreds of reports from people worldwide of various scams involving persons pretending to be U.S. Soldiers serving in Afghanistan or elsewhere, according to CID special agents.

Military wives needed for tv show for a chance to reunite with your military spouse.

A National TV talk show wants you - and we are casting now!!

The show will tape Decemeber 6th in NYC - and all of your expenses are paid

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2012 - Defense Department officials are sending a new spouse survey to select active-duty families to assist in determining programs that best suit their needs.

During an interview with the Pentagon Channel, Cathy Flynn, a program analyst with the Pentagon's military community and family policy office, discussed how these surveys affect future programs serving military families.

By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2012 - The Navy is taking steps to address several issues that are affecting its sailors, the chief of naval operations said here today.

Navy Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert spoke at a National Press Club luncheon.

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2012 - The Marine Corps' first living Medal of Honor recipient from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars told a gathering of U.S. business leaders here yesterday that hiring veterans is a mutually beneficial practice.

Dakota Meyer was a keynote speaker at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's fifth annual "Business Steps Up: Hiring Our Heroes" event.

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2012 - Military families now have greater access to programs designed to assist them with a spectrum of family support matters, a senior Pentagon official said here today.

Charles E. Milam, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy, told the Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service that the enhanced programs are in accordance with President Barack Obama's recently signed proclamation declaring November as Military Family Month.

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 15, 2012 - The USO and Defense Department recognized 10 chefs and selected the enlisted aide of the year from five nominees during the 2012 Salute to Military Chefs here last night.

The chefs and enlisted aides showcased their talents by way of a seven-course meal, featuring a main entrée of smoked duck breast, pumpkin risotto, braised kale and port-blackberry sauce.

by Debbie Gildea
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

"JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas" -If you're newly married, newly divorced, have dependent children or have a child who was born out of wedlock you may be confused about military benefits.

Some family situations are complicated or even awkward, so Airmen may be reluctant to pursue benefits to which their dependents - or former dependents - are legally entitled, said Ed Yoder, AFPC Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System Project office.

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2012 - More than 30 companies and organizations joined the Military Spouse Employment Partnership here today as part of the White House-sponsored Joining Forces effort to help unemployed spouses find jobs.

The newly inducted businesses, which join 129 other companies, were brought into the program at the partnership's third such ceremony. Inductees at today's Washington Navy Yard event represented businesses including fitness centers, banks, a hotel chain and a major soft-drink company.

"Susan never knows who can see her, or how they can see her. She just feels she is always being watched."

Female Army veteran and fiction indie author Deanna Breen-Ball of Lake Elsinore, has released her debut romance/suspense eNovel "Looking In", the first in a series, released May 2012.

Breen-Ball, a military spouse and stay-at-home-mom, has been working on the project "Looking In" for two years. Her inspiration came from her time in the Army as a mechanic and most current duties as a part-time educator and stay-at-home-mom. She found that many women identify with trying to find a balance between caring for and nurturing their family, as well as caring for and nurturing their own potential. Life experiences combined with the charismatic personality that tends to connect to people have brought her to write this suspenseful entertaining novel.

DALLAS - Military shoppers can come early and gobble up the savings as the Army and Air Force Exchange Service will open its Main Stores doors in CONUS, Alaska, and Hawaii at 4 a.m. Friday, Nov. 23 for "Black Friday" sales.

"From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving," said the Exchange's Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Tony Pearson. "The day after is the unofficial holiday season for many Exchange shoppers. The deals we will be serving up will offer plenty of incentive to get up early."

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2012 - "Our men and women in uniform have taught us about strength, duty, devotion, resolve -- cornerstones of a commitment to protect and defend that has kept our country safe for over 200 years. In war and in peace, their service has been selfless and their accomplishments have been extraordinary," President Barack Obama said in his proclamation issued today declaring Nov. 11 as Veterans Day.

The proclamation reads:

"Whether they fought in Salerno or Samarra, Heartbreak Ridge or Helmand, Khe Sanh or the Korengal, our veterans are part of an unbroken chain of men and women who have served our country with honor and distinction. On Veterans Day, we show them our deepest thanks. Their sacrifices have helped secure more than two centuries of American progress, and their legacy affirms that no matter what confronts us or what trials we face, there is no challenge we cannot overcome, and our best days are still ahead.

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2012 - Service members who are licensed to drive a range of military vehicles now have an advantage gaining a commercial driver's license, a senior defense official said.

Frank C. DiGiovanni, who directs the Defense Department's office of training readiness and strategy, recently told The Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service the licensing development is "the second piece of something that was passed last year."

by Tech. Sgt. Steve Grever
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas - Air Force Personnel Center Directorate of Services officials are sending more than 900 recordable children’s books to learning resource centers at six deployed locations throughout the U.S. Air Forces Central Command’s area of responsibility.

The Air Force Library Program collaborated with the Directorate of Services’ PLAYpass initiative to create the Get Out and READ Program to offer deployed Airmen an opportunity to keep in touch with their children by reading and recording books in their own voices.

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Jon Soucy
National Guard Bureau

NEW YORK, Nov. 5, 2012 - Members of the New York National Guard distributed critically needed fuel throughout the New York City area as residents and local authorities continue with cleanup and recovery efforts after Hurricane Sandy slammed the East Coast.

The fuel was provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and distributed at National Guard armories in Staten Island, Queens and Brooklyn as a response to gas stations and other infrastructure being shut down as a result of Sandy.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2012 - America's 398 national parks will offer the public free admission Nov. 10-12 during Veterans Day weekend in honor of those who serve and have served in the U.S. military, according to a National Park Service news release.

"National parks preserve places that commemorate our country's collective heritage -- our ideals, our majestic lands, our sacred sites, our patriotic icons -- which our military has defended through the years," National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis said in the release.

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2012 - As part of Operation Home Cooking today at the Metropolitan Cooking and Entertaining Show, the nation's No. 2 military officer hailed the strength of military spouses and shared his favorite Spanish rice dish, paella.

Navy Adm. James A. Winnefeld Jr., vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife Mary welcomed military spouses and wounded warrior caregivers who were honored by Operation Home Cooking with a day of food, entertainment and fellowship.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2012 - President Barack Obama has directed the Defense Logistics Agency to purchase up to 12 million gallons of unleaded fuel and up to 10 million gallons of diesel fuel for distribution in areas impacted by Hurricane Sandy to supplement ongoing private-sector efforts, according to a Federal Emergency Management Agency news release issued today.

This purchase will be transported by tanker trucks and distributed throughout New York, New Jersey and other communities impacted by the storm, according to the FEMA release.

Federal Voting Assistance Program News Release

ALEXANDRIA, Nov. 2, 2012 - Registered military and overseas voters in New York will have additional time to submit a request for an absentee ballot. Due to Hurricane Sandy, the State Board of Elections has extended the deadline for receiving ballot requests by mail or by fax to today, Nov. 2.

By Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Lockett
26th Marine Expeditionary Unit

NEW YORK, Nov. 2, 2012 - Marines and sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit based at Camp Lejeune, N.C., flew aboard the USS Wasp Nov. 1 to prepare to provide assistance to New Jersey, New York and Connecticut in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Within less than a day of receiving the order from Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Raymond C. Fox, the commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force, Marines and sailors boarded aircraft and sortied from bases in North Carolina to meet the amphibious assault ship as it sailed off the coast of New York City, preparing to provide medical, logistical, engineering, and heavy airlift support to the storm-damaged areas if tasked by the secretary of defense.

"What's important here is that the American public sees that their military can provide support to American cities, to American citizens, in a time of need," said Marine Corps Col. Matthew G. St. Clair, 26th MEU commanding officer. The MEU is a Marine Corps crisis-response force that's designed to remain afloat for months at a time

By Capt. Lucas Burke
Headquarters Marine Corps
November 01, 2012

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Marines and sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) on November 1 in support of Hurricane Sandy disaster relief efforts in New York and New Jersey.

The 26th MEU is able to provide generators, fuel, clean water, and helicopter lift capabilities to aid in disaster relief efforts.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2012 - "In our military families, we see the best our country has to offer. They demonstrate the virtues that have made America great for more than two centuries and the values that will preserve our greatness for centuries to come," President Barack Obama said in his proclamation issued today declaring the month of November as Military Family Month.

The proclamation reads:

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2012 - The Defense Department launched "a significant airlift event" to quickly get power restoration equipment to New York, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency asked DOD to airlift equipment from Southern California to New York, he said. The Air Mobility Command responded and some of the needed equipment is already in the air.

From an 18th Air Force Public Affairs News Release

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill., Nov. 1, 2012 - Following President Obama's directive for the federal government to "lean forward" in response to the devastation left by Hurricane Sandy, airmen from across the country are answering the call.

Aircraft and crews from 12 active duty, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve bases across the nation were mobilized to arrive at March Air Reserve Base, Calif., where they are slated to pick up approximately 10 passengers and 632 short tons of equipment and supplies to support relief efforts on the East Coast.

The Department of Defense (DoD) continues to provide disaster response resources and capabilities as requested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other federal agencies in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

Given the size and scope of the storm and its continuing impact throughout the eastern and northeastern United States, the department is actively posturing forces to support civil authorities via U.S. Northern Command and the National Guard Bureau, with a particular emphasis on un-watering and energy restoration.

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2011 - In a gesture of gratitude for their service and sacrifice, First Lady Michelle Obama today invited military families - including families of the military fallen - to be among the first to see the White House decked out for this year's holiday season.

"I know for some of you this holiday season will be tough," the first lady said. "But hopefully it's times like this that make you know that you live in a grateful nation, and that we are just so inspired by your sacrifice."

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2011 - The cast of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" would like to brighten the holidays for a deserving military family this year.

The reality show is seeking nominations for military families in desperate need of a home makeover. The selected family will be featured in an upcoming holiday episode.

Apex, N.C. – Shoeboxes for Military Spouses, the nation’s only program dedicated to collecting and distributing shoebox gifts to military spouses, is the flagship program of Support Military Spouses, a North-Carolina-based nonprofit. From Nov. 25 through Dec. 17, 17 locations across North Carolina will serve as collection sites for gift boxes.

The goal is to assemble, collect and distribute shoeboxes filled with gifts that are pampering and encouraging in nature to every wife or husband whose spouse is active duty.

ORANGE, Calif. - Since November, the A Million Thanks organization has been receiving thousands of holiday letters and cards for U.S. troops stationed at home and overseas. The organization is looking for hundreds of military addresses to send to service members during the holidays.

A Million Thanks is a year-round campaign to show our appreciation for our U.S. military men and women, past and present, for their sacrifices, dedication, and service to our country through our letters, emails, cards, and prayers. The organization was founded by Shauna Fleming in 2004 when she was a freshman in high school. The small community service project grew to a nationwide campaign, which is still actively collecting letters. To date, A Million Thanks has sent over five million letters to troops stationed around the world.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 22, 2011 - Wounded warriors at five polytrauma centers as well as military members soon will have an easier time staying in touch with their families and friends, thanks to the new "Chrome for Wounded, Ill and Injured Warriors" program.

Google, which launched the program in partnership with the American Red Cross, donated 600 new Chromebooks for patients to use during their hospital stays.

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2011 - President Barack Obama delivered a clear message today when he signed two new tax credits into law to increase the hiring of military veterans and wounded warriors.

"For businesses out there, if you are hiring, hire a veteran," he said. "It's the right thing to do for you, it's the right thing to do for them, and it's the right thing to do for our economy."

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2011 - A barbecue at Homestead-Miami Speedway in Florida before the Ford 400 NASCAR race is the latest example of the pride Americans have in their military families, First Lady Michelle Obama said yesterday.

At the event -- held in conjunction with the White House's "Joining Forces" initiative, which fosters public and private-sector support for service members, veterans and their families -- Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, thanked military families for their service and highlighted their resilience.

The newly combined TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Prime Remote handbook is an 88-page handbook that provides an overview of the TRICARE Prime and TRICARE Prime Remote program options. The handbook discusses regional contractors; DEERS; providers; enrollment and disenrollment; access standards; emergency, urgent, specialty, and routine care; referral and prior authorization requirements; health (including behavioral), pharmacy, and dental benefits; filing claims; other health insurance; third-party liability, explanation of benefits; life events; appeals; grievances; and reporting fraud and abuse. Stateside and overseas contact information is also included.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2011 - President Barack Obama joined Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard today to announce expanded military-to-military relationships between the two countries as they commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Australia-New Zealand-U.S. alliance.

Speaking at a joint news conference in the Australian capital of Canberra, the leaders announced closer collaboration between the U.S. Marine Corps and Air Force and the Australian Defense Force.

By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2011 - First Lady Michelle Obama today announced a private sector commitment to hire 100,000 veterans and military spouses by 2014, bringing to at least 125,000 the total commitment in response to President Barack Obama's recent hiring challenge.

The International Franchise Association, which represents 1,100 franchises, has committed to hiring 80,000 veterans and military spouses by 2014 � with 5,000 jobs reserved for wounded warriors, Mrs. Obama said during a keynote address at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Business Steps Up: Hiring our Heroes event here.

By Ian Graham
Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2011 - The struggle of a wounded warrior, knocked unconscious in Iraq and awaking in Germany or the United States with serious injuries -- in some cases amputations -- can be hard to understand.

Retired Army Maj. Ed Pulido, a wounded warrior who faced serious bouts of depression and considered suicide while recovering from his injuries, joined a DoDLive Bloggers Roundtable to discuss issues he and other wounded warriors face, and the help he's received from the Defense Department-sponsored Real Warriors Campaign.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2011 - A variety of restaurants and fast-food chains are offering free or discounted meals to active-duty, reserve and retired military members and veterans in thanks for their service this Veterans Day.

Most participating restaurants will require patrons to arrive in uniform or with some form of military identification, officials said. This can be a U.S. Uniform Service card, a current leave and earnings statement, a DD 214 discharge form or American Legion or VFW membership card. In some cases, restaurants will accept a photograph of the service member or veteran in uniform.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 937-11
November 07, 2011

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of three servicemen, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and are being returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

Army Capt. Arnold E. Holm Jr. of Waterford, Conn.; Spc. Robin R. Yeakley of South Bend, Ind.; and Pfc. Wayne Bibbs of Chicago, will be buried as a group, in a single casket representing the entire crew, on Nov. 9, in Arlington National Cemetery.  On June 11, 1972, Holm was the pilot of an OH-6A Cayuse helicopter flying a reconnaissance mission in Thua Thien-Hue Province, South Vietnam.  Also on board were his observer, Yeakley, and his door gunner, Bibbs.  The aircraft made a second pass over a ridge, where enemy bunkers had been sighted, exploded and crashed, exploding again upon impact.  Crews of other U.S. aircraft, involved in the mission, reported receiving enemy ground fire as they overflew the crash site looking for survivors.

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2011 - A contest of photographs depicting the daily life of military deployments and overseas assignments, as captured through the camera lenses of military members, veterans and diplomats, will kick off on Veterans Day.

The contest to select the 1,000 winning photos for an exhibit, Serving Abroad ... Through Their Eyes, will launch Nov. 11, and continue through Presidents Day, Feb. 20, Defense Department officials said.

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL, Va., Nov. 5, 2011 - With hundreds of military families gathered here, Sesame Workshop today unveiled a new collection of resources designed to help children stay connected with military loved ones.

The "Military Families Near and Far" products, which include a bilingual website and mobile application, encourage elementary school-aged children to express their emotions and to communicate as they undergo challenging military transitions. The resources are a team effort by the iconic kids' TV programs, Sesame Street and The Electric Company, and are provided in cooperation with the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury.

 By Capt. Carrie L. Kessler
Air Force Personnel, Services and Manpower Public Affairs

"SAN ANTONIO" - Airmen and families now have an easier way to make lodging reservations for Air Force Inns worldwide.

The Defense Lodging System (DLS) now features online reservations and the capability for customers to leave online feedback about their stay at one of the Air Force lodging facilities. Nearly 90 percent of all Air Force Inns have transferred to the new system. The remaining Inns are scheduled to be online by January 2012.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2011 - Later this month, a group of 17 family members who care for wounded warriors, as well as surviving spouses of fallen service members, will gather at Syracuse University in New York to learn how to start and run their own businesses.

Syracuse's Whitman School of Management will host its second Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans' Families smack in the middle of Military Family Appreciation Month.

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2011 - A Veterans Day TV special will celebrate service members and veterans and spotlight the issues they face as they leave the military and re-enter their communities and the workforce.

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 'Rise and Honor' A Veterans Day Special" will air Nov. 11 at 8 p.m. EST on ABC. The show teamed up with the Entertainment Industry Foundation, Hollywood's leading charity, to present the one-hour special, a news release said.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2011 - First Lady Michelle Obama would like to add a military flourish to the White House's holiday decorations this year.

She's asking military children from throughout the world to create holiday cards honoring their service member parent and to send them to the White House no later than Nov. 16, according to a Navy news article  [ http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=63533 ] by Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Monique K. Hilley.

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2011 - Calling on the nation to celebrate military families' service and sacrifice, President Barack Obama today signed proclamations designating November as Military Family Month and National Family Caregivers Month.

"With every step we take on American soil, we tread on ground made safer for us through the invaluable sacrifices of our service members and their families," the president said in his Military Family Month proclamation.

The Department of Defense announced today that an additional campaign phase has been approved for the Afghanistan Campaign Medal (ACM).Accordingly, an additional campaign star corresponding to the campaign phase is now authorized for wear on the ACM.

ACM campaign stars recognize a service member's participation in DoD-designated military campaigns in the Afghanistan Campaign Medal's area of eligibility.

By Elaine Wilson 
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2010 - Amy Scarpulla hopes her deployed husband can call home tomorrow before final Thanksgiving meal dish is rinsed and the last of the turkey leftovers are packed away in the fridge.

But after dealing with five deployments in 12 years, she's all-too aware of the mission-first mentality of the combat zone. Her husband, Army Sgt. 1st Class Wayne Scarpulla, is serving with 1st Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment on Forward Operating Base Connolly, Afghanistan.

By Elaine Wilson 
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2010 - On his fifth deployment, Army Capt. Todd Tomkins will be far from home and his family's Thanksgiving feast tomorrow.

He'll miss out on the men's morning outing to hunt, and will have to forgo the savory turkey dinner that's timed perfectly to coincide with football halftime.

By Navy Adm. Mike Mullen Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2010 - As we reflect on all that we have to be thankful for during this upcoming holiday weekend, I want to express my personal thanks to our armed forces and their families. Their profound commitment - and sacrifice - continues to inspire.

By Elaine Wilson 
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2010 - A new one-of-a-kind resource handbook and video is being made available to servicemembers' families and friends, courtesy of an independent film production company, Vulcan Productions, owned by philanthropist Paul G. Allen. The handbook and video aim to help families and friends prepare for the emotional challenges encountered before, during and after deployment.

By Karen Parrish 
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2010 - A pilot program that eases medical separation and speeds benefit payments for servicemembers too wounded, sick or injured to stay in the military will soon roll out to the entire force.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2010 - Everyone's life is a story, and the Defense Department will help 10 servicemembers and an Army spouse tell their stories as part of the TEDxPentagon Web event Nov. 19.

These are human stories, stressed Sumit Agarwal, deputy assistant secretary of defense for outreach and social media. "These are not dry recitations of statistics," he added.

By Elaine Wilson 
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2010 - Young children from military families are more likely to seek mental and behavioral health care when a parent is deployed than when a parent is at home, a military study has concluded.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 1044-10 
November 12, 2010

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

The centerpiece of the month's activity will be our Sleep Well at Night search. It is because of the men and women of our Military Service that we can all sleep well at night.  As a small token of our appreciation, we want to thank a military family for their service by letting them sleep even better at night with new Verlo beds for the entire house.

My name is Jennifer McDonnell and I'm the Executive Director of Content & Community at DECA. We run a video site for parents called Parents Ask and recently launched a video called *Military Mom* that I thought your organization might be interested in reviewing.

Lifetime network, home of the hit TV series "Army Wives," is producing an exciting new reality show that will honor the great sacrifices and celebrate the emotional reunions of service members - from all five branches of the Armed Forces - with their loved ones.

These wonderful moments are perfect opportunities for heartfelt and poignant stories, as well as fun and unexpected surprises.

By Donna Miles 
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2010 - Just in time for Veterans Day, a new, state-of-the-art Web portal is being rolled out tomorrow to help veterans ? as well as reserve-component members, their families and wounded warriors ? land jobs with civilian employers who value their military experience.

The user-friendly tools will enhance the popular Employer Partnership of the Armed Forces program by making it easier for both job-hunters and employers seeking their skills, Army Lt. Col. Matt Leonard, the program's public affairs officer, told American Forces Press Service.

By Cheryl Pellerin 
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2010 - Troubled troops, veterans and family members have a round-the-clock, free resource for locating the help they need to deal with psychological health problems and traumatic brain injury.

The 24/7 Outreach Center is part of the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury, or DCoE. The center is always staffed with trained, professional health-resource consultants.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2010 - The National Park Service offers its last free-admission day of the year to honor U.S. veterans and active-duty servicemembers on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

The Park Service has nearly 400 parks and other resources around the United States and in American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands and the District of Columbia.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 1026-10 
November 08, 2010

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Do You Have The Ultimate Wedding Disaster Story?

Did you suffer a wedding disaster that put a damper on your big day?
Does your wedding video play like a blooper reel?
Do you wish you could do it all over again and have the wedding you originally dreamed of?

By Elaine Wilson 
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2010 - It can begin with a single, seemingly harmless act: a taunt at recess, a snub in the lunch room or a juicy piece of gossip posted to Facebook or Twitter.

But each act, multiplied over time, can equate to some devastating consequences, including shattered self-esteem, depression, fear and, in the worst cases, suicide.

by Joe Shaeffer
Air and Space Expeditionary Force Training and Outreach

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas - An online tool available to Airmen aimsto reduce the workload of tracking appointments and training inpreparation for a deployment.

Found on the Air and Space Expeditionary Force Online website, thePersonal Deployment Processing Tool allows Airmen to review and tracktheir readiness status for medical and personnel requirements.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2010 - President Barack Obama has signed a proclamation designating this month as Military Family Month.

Here is the text of the president's proclamation:

We owe each day of security and freedom that we enjoy to the members of our Armed Forces and their families. Behind our brave service men and women, there are family members and loved ones who share in their sacrifice and provide unending support.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 25, 2009 - It's a few hours a month, but the break the Armed Services YMCA Respite Child Care program provides parents with a deployed spouse always is welcome. And since the program's Oct. 1 nationwide expansion, many more parents will benefit.

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2009 - An independent study by the Institute of Medicine last month resulted in broadened health coverage by the Veterans Affairs Department for Vietnam War veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange.

ATTENTION ALL COOKS - ANY LEVEL!!!
Do you have the passion for cooking, but lack certain skills?

Have you always wanted to work alongside a professional chef to observe his or her technique?

By Ian Graham
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2009 - The USO has changed a lot in 68 years and today marked another milestone in the group's history of supporting the military when it sponsored a care package service specifically for female servicemembers.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2009 - First Lady Michelle Obama today cited Army Staff Sgt. Amy Krueger, one of 13 killed during the shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas, as an example of the determination and courage that has characterized women's service to the military throughout U.S. history.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2009 - It is hard to predict how a child will react to having a parent deployed in a war zone, the Marine Corps' family advocacy manager said here today on the last day of the 2009 Department of Defense Child Development Conference.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

ARLINGTON, Nov. 18, 2009 - Character was the focus as Scouting saluted the military yesterday.

U.S. Rep. Ike Skelton of Missouri told about 500 people from Boy Scouts' National Capital Area Council that the values of Boy Scouts and the military are constant and that both organizations seek to serve something greater than themselves.

This study will implement telephone groups for spouses of Operation Enduring Freedom / Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) Guard / Reserve service members to help cope with reintegration concerns and strengthen the family.   The groups will focus on education, skills building and support. 

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2009 - A recent initiative launched by the Veterans Affairs Department and the U.S. Olympic Committee is giving disabled veterans a chance to rediscover their potential through athletics and competition.

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2009 - Defense and Veterans Affairs officials today announced another step in their efforts to streamline the process of determining veterans' disability ratings.

By Army 1st Lt. Juan Torres Jr.
Special to American Forces Press Service

CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE HUNTER, Iraq, Nov. 16, 2009 - A little bit of home made its way to this remote base in Iraq's Maysan province recently, as soldiers tested their skills in a barbecue competition.

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2009 - An army of volunteers wrote letters of thanks and assembled care packages for delivery to military families during Operation Appreciation, held Nov. 11 at George Washington University here.

By Maj. Belinda Petersen
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas - The Air Force Services Agency has launched a new Web site to help Airmen stay connected, informed and engaged in programs as part of the Year of the Air Force Family.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2009 - President Barack Obama signed an executive order yesterday aimed at hiring more veterans to work in the federal government.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2009 - Officials at Fort Hood, Texas, released the names of the 12 soldiers and one civilian employee killed in the Nov. 5 shooting incident on the post.

By Elaine Wilson
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2009 - Military families make tremendous sacrifices in support of the nation and deserve recognition as well as the best programs and policies the Defense Department can deliver, a defense official said yesterday.

American Forces Press Service

FALLS CHURCH, Va., Nov. 2, 2009 - The Military Health System will host a Web-based, town hall-style meeting Nov. 10 from 3 to 4 p.m. EST to respond to questions about H1N1 influenza.

Military members, their families, health-care providers and Defense Department civilians may submit questions starting today, using the comments box at http://www.health.mil/flu. As many as possible of the questions submitted in advance, as well as questions asked throughout the live event, will be answered during the Web hall. A transcript of all questions and answers will be posted to the site after the event.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2009 - President Barack Obama pledged his support of military members and their families and said Americans have a "solemn obligation" to preserve their well-being in his proclamation declaring November as Military Family Month.

By Jamie Findlater
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2008 - A Web-based network of support for wounded warriors, veterans and their families, as well as the families of the fallen, has sprung from a collaborative effort by the departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs.

Have you been thinking about completing a degree, but you cannot attend a traditional campus?

Earn your degree anytime anywhere online at DeVry University

By Army Sgt. Rebekah L. Malone
Special to American Forces Press Service

PINEVILLE, La., Nov. 26, 2008 - When soldiers from Louisiana National Guard headquarters and Headquarters Company, 225th Engineer Brigade, received their mobilization orders, thoughts of what they would be leaving behind for the next year ran across their minds.

By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2008 -  Mannheim Steamroller, the recording group famous for putting a new twist on traditional Christmas music, is hoping to spread holiday cheer to the military this season by giving away 1 million CDs to troops and their families.

Site allows active duty military to find others who are traveling in the same direction so they can ride together and save some green.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 962-08
November 17, 2008*

The Department of Defense today launched the National Resource Directory, a collaborative effort between the departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs.            

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2008 - Overseas-deployed servicemembers can receive video "shout-outs" from home, as well as senior-leader messages, thanks to the new TroopTube online information service, according to military officials.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2008 - Just in time for Thanksgiving, 14 musical acts are showing just how thankful they are for what the military does for everyone back home.

By Army Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 14, 2008 - On the same day the first woman was promoted to the rank of four-star general, the "Fly Girls of World War II" exhibit opened in honor of the first U.S. military-trained women aviators.

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2008 - Recent changes to the Family and Medical Leave Act will extend the period of unpaid, job-protected leave that eligible family members can take to care for wounded warrior spouses, Labor Department officials said.

By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 12, 2008 - A troop-support group that provides education on the brain's and body's natural responses to stress launched its redesigned Web site yesterday.

By Air Force Master Sgt. Adam M. Stump
Special to American Forces Press Service

OSAN AIR BASE, Korea, Nov. 12, 2008 - Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff U.S. Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright is halfway through a six-country, eight-day USO tour to bring entertainment to troops Nov. 9-16.

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2008 - Each of the 58,000 names of fallen troops etched into the granite Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall here tells a story. Many of these tales end in the arms of a female nurse.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2008 - A change to federal law allows U.S. veterans and military personnel not in uniform to render the military-style hand salute during the playing of the national anthem.

We recently received this question (or a variation several times) and honestly we did NOT know the answer however after researching we did locate the information.

Q: Who would assume the presidency IF the candidate elected should be assassinated PRIOR to taking the oath of office and assuming the duties of the President?

Here is the information.  Although lengthy it will answer the questions raised
BJ 'n Cindy

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2008 - About 3,000 soldiers assigned to the 101st Airborne Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team will leave Iraq nearly two months earlier than planned, reducing the total number of U.S. brigades in Iraq to 14, military officials said.

By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2008 - More than 1,000 students, teachers and parents crowded into a Fort Mitchell, Ky., school auditorium Oct. 24 to thank Army paratroopers and their families from Fort Bragg, N.C., for their service.

By Army Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill
Special to American Forces Press Service

ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 5, 2008 - Basketball legend and avid motorcyclist Michael Jordan is the latest high-profile celebrity to team up with the National Guard.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2008 - With mailing deadlines rapidly approaching, a "targeted" effort at the Van Nuys National Guard Armory on Nov. 1 and 2 ensured that 70,000 servicemembers would receive goodies from California this holiday season.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2008 - As the Defense Department observes November as Warrior Care Month, officials have extended to Nov. 28 the deadline for wounded, ill and injured servicemembers and their families to respond to a survey designed to assess the programs and services they receive.

By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2008 - Children of fallen warriors will enjoy camp activities and get help managing their grief this month at a program designed especially for them.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates calls a new handbook that compiles the myriad information seriously wounded, ill or injured servicemembers and their families need in one succinct, easy-to-read publication another step in improving the care and support they deserve.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 925-08
November 03, 2008

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2008 - As the holidays approach and military families start thinking about what they're going to send loved ones serving overseas, there are a few dates to keep in mind.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2007 - A nonprofit group is using a treasure hunt to get people interested in helping military families.

By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2007 - The departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs have teamed to test a pilot disability evaluation program that officials hope will streamline the confusing and often frustrating process for servicemembers and their families.

By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2007 - Defense Department policy prohibits services from recouping bonuses and other pay from servicemembers who do not complete their military contracts due to no fault of their own.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2007 - As the holidays draw near and shopping lists get shorter, some may find they're still looking for the perfect way to thank "Any Servicemember" this year.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 29, 2007 - Disabled veterans looking for employment opportunities have one more resource working for them. Hire Heroes USA, a program of the Georgia-based Health Careers Foundation, is working to link disabled veterans to employment opportunities nationwide.

By Sgt. 1st Class Rick Emert, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

CAMP TAJI, Iraq, Nov. 29, 2007 - Army Staff Sgt. Rosie Threatt could have been lost in the group of her large family. She's the fifth of six children, and her siblings have distinguished themselves by working in the medical, criminal justice and teaching fields.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2007 - Defense Department employees soon will see a new notice on their government computer screens informing them that their e-mails are subject to monitoring and that use of the computer means they recognize and consent to that monitoring.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2007 - With thoughts turning from tasty Thanksgiving turkey to holiday shopping lists, one national bookseller has made it easy to find the perfect gift for everyone, including the nation's servicemembers.

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2007 - Army installation commanders worldwide have been directed to plan for spending scale-backs due to an anticipated budget crunch sparked by governmental wrangling over funding for the war on terrorism, according to an Army news release issued today.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 27, 2007 - Military families in Colorado whose major breadwinners are deployed to the Middle East are getting help with seasonal yard tasks from an unexpected source.

By Sgt. 1st Class Kerensa Hardy, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq, Nov. 27, 2007 - Army Pvt. Imani Tumbling and Pfc. Angelo Tumbling will celebrate their first major holiday as a married couple and their first anniversary here in a combat zone.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 1354-07
November 27, 2007

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors. 

By Pfc. Monica K. Smith, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq, Nov. 27, 2007 - "Medevac! Medevac! 2nd Up." As the call comes over the radio, the living room of the pilots, crew chiefs and medics of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, springs to life.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2007 - The Alaska National Guard is bringing Christmas a month early to children in remote Alaskan villages, some whom might otherwise not get to see a Santa Claus or receive a holiday gift.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2007 - A Texas-based group is working to give caregivers of war wounded and military spouses the support they need as they transition from the military community to the civilian sector.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2007 - Connecting supportive Americans with deployed troops keeps one Colorado-based support group busy.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2007 - When troops stationed in the Middle East sit down to Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow, the turkey won't come in a brown field rations pouch.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 1340-07
November 21, 2007

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing from the Korean War, have been identified. He is Sgt. Agostino Di Rienzo, U.S. Army, of East Boston, Mass.

Hello,

My name is Esther Walker, and I am the executive director of the Studio City
Chamber of Commerce. Our Chamber puts on a holiday parade every year (this
is our 13th) and this year we have five of the stars of the Lifetime
television show Army Wives in the parade. We are hoping to do a tribute to
military spouses in the parade and would like to pair real military spouses
with the ones on television. We have gone to a local recruiting office and a
Sacramento office but haven't gotten very far - lots of red tape involved.

By Kevin Casey
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2007 - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is overseeing a number of road improvement projects in Iraq, including a one-mile stretch on Victory Base Complex here. And while that particular project may be "inside the wire," it is having an impact in town.

By Tech. Sgt. Mike R. Smith, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service

ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md., Nov. 20, 2007 - Officials broke ground here yesterday on a $52 million Air National Guard Readiness Center expansion.

By Toni Maltagliati
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2007 - A former Army sergeant and his family this month are settling into a brand new house in New Burn, N.C., custom-built to insure his war injuries will not keep him from independent living.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2007 - The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard each honored one of their own at a Pentagon ceremony today with an award named for actor-comedian Bob Hope.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2007 - Just in time for the holidays, 13 major recording artists have created a musical "Thank You" for the troops.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 16, 2007 - For those seeking a quick way to show appreciation to troops serving far from home this holiday season, look no further than "Giving Thanks," a new initiative from the Defense Department's America Supports You program.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates joined Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao today in supporting a new initiative to help military spouses get the education and other credentials needed to pursue careers in high-demand, high-growth occupations.

By Linda Hosek
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2007 - Kate Deyermond is going on a $15,000 holiday spending spree today -- but not for herself or with her own money.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba, Nov. 14, 2007 - Three weeks out of every four, Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Daniel Figueroa studies the North Atlantic waters from an HU-25 "Falcon" aircraft, looking for illegal fishing ships and vessels in trouble.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2007 - A Maryland group is using its favorite game to positively affect combat-wounded veterans who served in Afghanistan or Iraq.

By Tim Kilbride
Special to American Forces Press Service

BAGHDAD, Nov. 14, 2007 - Coalition officials are taking advantage of a decline in insurgent violence to jumpstart a transition into long-term stability operations, a U.S. commander said in Baghdad.

By Jamie Findlater
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2007 - The Defense Department's military health care system is using its interactive, revamped Web site -- http://mhs.osd.mil -- to share information between U.S. military medical personnel and other government agencies and organizations outside the government.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

NEW YORK, Nov. 13, 2007 - Americans who offer extraordinary support to the nation's servicemembers got the red-carpet treatment yesterday during a luncheon held in their honor at the famous Rainbow Room restaurant here.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 1300-07
November 09, 2007           

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.          

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2007 - The departments of Defense and Veteran Affairs have teamed up to improve access to mental health care services to better assist servicemembers, veterans and families, a senior U.S. military officer said here today.

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

NEW YORK, Nov. 8, 2007 - Laughter and song can be indispensible weapons for wounded servicemembers undergoing painful convalescence, as hope and anguish battle for primacy. Last night, A-listers such as comedians Conan O'Brien and Robin Williams and musician Bruce Springsteen helped some move closer to recovery.

By Capt. Michael Meridith, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service

BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, Nov. 7, 2007 - A nine-person team deployed from 49th Material Maintenance Group at Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., recently completed the largest deployable aircraft shelter in the Air Force.

By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam, Nov. 7, 2007 - Wearing a protective vest and Kevlar helmet and carrying an M-16 rifle, Fassil Gabremariam struggled to climb into the turret of an armored Humvee.

By Toni Maltagliati
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2007 - Troops in Iraq know too well how quickly life can take a wrong turn. An outpouring of goodwill and support from the public is helping one wounded soldier and his wife cope with a tragic loss.

Suggested Mailing Dates for Military Mail Going Overseas

Indianapolis, IN — To ensure delivery of holiday cards and packages by December 25 to military APO/FPO addresses overseas, we suggest mailing by the recommended dates shown below. 

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 1284-07
November 06, 2007

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing from the Vietnam War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.            

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 5, 2007 - About 1,000 members of 10th Mountain Division will deploy to Iraq this spring as replacements for troops due to rotate home, Defense Department officials announced today.

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2007 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates today paid tribute to women who have answered America's call to duty since the nation's founding during the Women in Military Service for America Memorial's 10th anniversary celebration here.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2007 - For those seeking a quick way to show appreciation to troops serving far from home this holiday season, look no further than "Giving Thanks," a new initiative from the Defense Department's America Supports You program.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2007 - The wife of an NBC News correspondent who died of a blood clot while embedded with a U.S. unit during the Iraq invasion is working to increase awareness to prevent others from sharing her husband's fate.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

ST. JOHN, U.S. Virgin Islands, Nov. 1, 2007 - The calls family members receive about a servicemember's injury come out of the blue at all hours of the day and night, and they all have the same general effect.

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2007 - President Bush is urging Americans to recognize veterans' valor and sacrifice through ceremonies and prayers during "National Veterans Awareness Week" next month.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 1265-07
October 31, 2007

The Department of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) today signed an agreement to provide "federal recovery coordinators" who will ensure life-long medical and rehabilitative care services and other federal benefits are provided to seriously wounded, injured and ill active duty service members, veterans and their families.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2006 - A troop-support organization and a major retailer are bringing the holiday spirit to families at six military bases through "Operation Christmas."

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2006 - All people, particularly very young and older citizens, should obtain an annual flu shot, a top DoD health official said here today.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2006 - A man believed to have first-hand knowledge of a missing U.S. soldier's whereabouts was the target of a raid conducted today in Baghdad's Sadr City neighborhood by special Iraqi army forces, working with coalition advisors.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2006 - Country star Aaron Tippin will spend the Thanksgiving holiday with troops deployed overseas.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2006 - A week-long exercise that wraps up today at several U.S. bases is preparing 82nd Airborne Division troops and their Afghan, International Security Assistance Force, interagency and non-governmental organization partners for their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2006 - Military children interested in helping Santa this year have until Nov. 21 to submit their application to participate in the first "Top of the World Toy Summit" at the North Pole.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2006 - Defense Department officials today announced the first of the major units scheduled to deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan for the next rotations in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

By Sgt. Tommi Meyer, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

TUSCON, Ariz., Nov. 17, 2006 - More than 2,000 miles from his home in Michigan City, Ind., and nearly 100 miles into the Arizona desert, Sgt. Brian Rogers, an Indiana National Guard member with the 938th Military Police Detachment, scans the brush and rugged terrain for anything worthy of a radio call to Tucson Sector Border Patrol.

American Forces Press Service

SANTA ANA, Calif., Nov. 17, 2006 - Just in time for the holidays, Operation Homefront has launched "eCarePackage," an online service that allows caring citizens to send care packages to deployed troops and their families.

American Forces Press Service

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo., Nov. 17, 2006 - In advance of the holiday season and its 51st season of tracking Santa Claus on his annual journey around the world, the North American Aerospace Defense Command today activated its "NORAD Tracks Santa" Web site for 2006.

By Sgt. Mike Pryor, USA
American Forces Press Service

FORT BRAGG, N.C., Nov. 16, 2006 - When Angela Lashley first heard that her paratrooper son, Army Pvt. Jonathan Wisniewski, was being deployed to Iraq, she was devastated.

By Sgt. Sarah Scully, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait, Nov. 16, 2006 - Instead of climbing aboard a snowmobile to track prey and patrol the vast wilderness, they now slide into military vehicles and patrol a sandy wasteland, looking for suspicious activity.

By Spc. Karl Johnson, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq, Nov. 15, 2006 - Under the clear, morning skies of a promising new day in Baghdad, the 1st Cavalry Division took the reins for Multinational Division Baghdad from the 4th Infantry Division during a transfer of authority ceremony here today.

By Pfc. Shea Butler, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq, Nov. 15, 2006 - Before heading into Baghdad, soldiers here put on layer after layer of protective gear. There's the Army combat uniform first, then an outer tactical vest, and finally, they top it off with an Army combat helmet.

By Tim Hipps
Special to American Forces Press Service

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Nov. 15, 2006 - U.S. military servicemembers will receive free admission at Daytona USA throughout November to celebrate Armed Forces Month.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2006 - A Celtic band from California is donating all proceeds from online sales of its latest single generated through a special endeavor on Myspace.com to a veterans organization.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 14, 2006 - Changes being made in the way the force is structured, trains and deploys ultimately will mean fewer deployments and more predictability for individual troops, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff told National Guardsmen today during a town hall meeting here.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2006 - The Defense Department's top civilian welcomed the Marine Corps' new commandant today during a change-of-command ceremony at the Marine Barracks here.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2006 - The Arizona Cardinals commemorated Veterans Day during yesterday's game by paying tribute to former teammate and fallen soldier Pat Tillman, as well as five Tuskegee Airmen and a Navy Reservist recently returned from duty in the Middle East.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Nov. 12, 2006 - In word and patriotic song, The Grand Ole Opry honored the nation's veterans and reunited a family during last night's live show at the historic Ryman Theater, its former home in downtown Nashville.

By Carmen L. Burgess
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2006 - In honor of Veterans Day, the American Freedom Foundation hosted a star-studded concert here last night to raise money for wounded men and women of the U.S. military.

By Carmen L. Burgess
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2006 - Entertainers took the stage in a tribute to those in uniform during the 2006 American Freedom Festival last night at DAR Constitution Hall here.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Nov. 11, 2006 - With the aroma of a barbecue lunch hanging in the air, the first chords of a welcome home concert for the soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, rang out here yesterday afternoon.

By Carmen L. Burgess
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2006 - Once a month, volunteers gather in a hidden-away United Service Organizations warehouse on Fort Belvoir, Va., for a very important mission: stuffing care packages for troops overseas.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Nov. 11, 2006 - Six cities delivered a simple message to about 750 of their extended family members here yesterday: "Welcome Home 1/327th Infantry Regiment."

By Staff Sgt. Scott Dunn, USMC
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2006 - A Marine corporal who died shielding men in his care from a bursting grenade will receive America's highest military decoration, President Bush said here today.

Air Force Pilot Missing in Action from Vietnam War is Identified

NEWS RELEASES from the United States Department of Defense
No. 1145-06 IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 09, 2006

 The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. Air Force officer missing in action from the Vietnam War have been identified and are being returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

American Forces Press Service

BRANSON, Mo., Nov. 9, 2006 - More than 50,000 veterans and their families are expected to attend the 13th Annual Veterans Homecoming event, which kicked off Nov. 5 in Branson, Mo.

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2006 - World War II veteran John A. Glaros clearly remembers the day 63 years ago when he heard that his friend, a fellow U.S. Army Air Forces radioman, had perished in an air crash in Australia that would remain a secret for many years afterward.

Missing World War II Airmen Identified

NEWS RELEASES from the United States Department of Defense
No. 1138-06 IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 08, 2006

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of four U.S. servicemen, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2006 - The troops in Iraq appreciate the support and help they receive from the United States, a top coalition spokesman said today.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 8, 2006 - Donald H. Rumsfeld, who resigned today as the longest-serving defense secretary in U.S. history, took office with a mandate from President Bush to transform the Defense Department.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2006 - The one overriding lesson of the all-volunteer force is the importance of the military family, a top Defense Department official said here today.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2006 - The Grand Ole Opry is looking for the public's help in honoring the nation's veterans during its live Saturday night show this week, which happens to coincide with Veterans Day.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2006 - As the Air Force and Navy continue to transform themselves, the two services are finding they do not need the number of people they once did. But thanks to a program called "Operation Blue to Green," sailors and airmen chosen for separation can transfer to the Army and remain on active duty.

By David Mays
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2006 - Dozens of war-wounded servicemembers lined up alongside the record crowd of 37,000 competitors for Nov. 5's New York City Marathon.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2006 - With National Veterans Awareness Week under way and the national Veterans Day observance on Nov. 11, the Veterans Affairs secretary is urging all veterans to show their pride by wearing their military medals.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

PHOENIX, Nov. 6, 2006 - For every drain ABC Plumbing and Rooter Company Inc., clears, a local troop-support group clears a $5 donation.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2006 - President Bush officially declared this week National Veterans Awareness Week and urged all Americans to honor veterans who "stepped forward when America needed them most."

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2006 - Organizers of some of the 130-plus Freedom Walks around the country that commemorated the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States and honored America's veterans gathered here at the Pentagon today to explore ways to make next year's event even more successful.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2006 - The Alaska National Guard will join Santa and Mrs. Claus tomorrow as they visit St. Mary's, Alaska, to commemorate the 50th anniversary flight of Operation Santa Claus.

American Forces Press Service

STRATTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Scotia, N.Y. , Nov. 3, 2006 - An LC-130 Hercules from the New York Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Wing touched down at the South Pole on Oct. 30 to commemorate the first plane landing there 50 years ago.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2006 - A letter sent by the National Association of Secretaries of State urges all military and overseas absentee voters to cast their ballots in the upcoming Nov. 7 elections and assures them that their vote will be counted.

By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2006 - The Air Force's new cyberspace command will redefine air power for the 21st century and bring the fight to a realm that the enemy has already exploited extensively, the general in charge of the new command said here yesterday.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

PHOENIX, Nov. 3, 2006 - In grand fashion, "Packages From Home" welcomed dignitaries and guests to the grand opening of its new digs on the Phoenix Memorial Hospital campus yesterday.

No. 1115-06 IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 02, 2006

 The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Vietnam War, have been identified and returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2006 - All separating servicemembers should know about Transition Assistance Program workshops, Labor Department officials said here today.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2006 - The director of the National Security Agency stepped uncharacteristically into the spotlight here today to join the United Service Organizations in honoring veterans, who he said set the example for today's troops, and the family members who stand by them.

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2006 - The nation's capital is awash with military-themed statues and memorials. Yet, there isn't a memorial honoring the sacrifices of America's disabled military veterans.

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2006 - The men and women who serve in the armed forces are "the best and brightest our country has to offer," Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao said today.

By Senior Airman Amaani Lyle, USAF
Special to American Forces Press Service

ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md., Nov. 2, 2006 - When Michael Ogunjimi was in third grade, he won a regional essay contest with a submission titled "I Love Life and I Want to Live."

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2006 - An intensivesearch continues for Spc. Ahmed Qusai al-Taayie, a 41-year-old U.S. Army Reserve soldier kidnapped Oct. 23 outside Baghdad's International Zone, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq told reporters during a Baghdad briefing today.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2006 - This Veterans Day, Antelope Valley, Calif., is making sure Vietnam veterans get the welcome home they never got with a Welcome Home parade, one of the event's organizers said.

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2006 - New identification cards now being issued to some Defense Department employees will help standardize federal work force identification and enhance security, a senior DoD official said here today.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2006 - The Ohio State University men's lacrosse team has a new motto and 129 new fans cheering them on from afar.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2006 - Tricare beneficiaries will get a pleasant surprise the next time they visit Tricare Online. The Web site has a new name, a new look and a new home. It's now part of Tricare.mil, the official Web site for all Tricare information.

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 1, 2006 - Today kicks off Military Families Appreciation Month, an annual tribute to the family members who, President Bush and other U.S. and military leaders frequently recognize, serve the country alongside their loved ones in uniform.

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 31, 2006 - How to pay for a child's college education shouldn't be a consideration for those who lose a loved one in battle, and one troop-support group is working to ensure it isn't.