Family Matters Blog: Enlisted Leaders Call for Better Financial Education

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 15, 2011 – I attended a financial fitness forum earlier this week that brought together representatives from the military and financial institutions to discuss how they can better financially empower and educate troops and their families.

Senior enlisted leaders from each service were invited to join a panel to speak about what they see as the greatest financial pitfalls for service members and their families and to offer input on how the government and private sectors can help.

As the leaders spoke, it became clear to me that while each service is separate and distinct, the financial issues are not.

Troops and their families, they said, face the same challenges as most Americans: getting by in a tough economy, housing market struggles and personal financial management issues.

Frequent moves and deployments can result in troubling housing issues for service members, noted Army Sgt. Maj. Thomas S. Gills, sergeant major to the Army Deputy Chief of Staff, G1.

If they’re deployed or get orders to move and can’t sell their house, they typically rent it out. But that can be a nightmare, he said, if a troop is deployed or is living too far away to keep an eye on the property. “That’s gnawing away at you and at the same time we have very high standards and expectations for our soldiers, noncommissioned officers and leaders,” he said.

Navy Command Master Chief Scott Fleming, executive assistant to the master chief petty officer of the Navy, noted the proliferation of used car lots, payday lenders and pawn shops outside the gates of many military installations. People assume everyone knows that some of these businesses may be shady, he said, “but does that knowledge really exist?”

Technology now offers questionable lenders a way to also reach inside the gate. It’s all-too easy to find financial deals, as well as outright scams, on the Internet, said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Robert L. Frank, special assistant to the chief master sergeant of the Air Force.

The leaders all called for better financial education and information that’s tailored to a young generation. “Sitting in an auditorium and getting death by PowerPoint doesn’t work with today’s soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines,” Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Micheal P. Barrett said.

And it’s got to be information that makes sense rather than a flood of overwhelming information, said Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt. Finding ways to reach troops and their families will require leadership at all levels, he added.

At the same time, the military needs to keep in mind the older service member who isn’t confronting issues such as purchasing a first car or home, said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Denise Jelinski-Hall, National Guard Bureau’s senior enlisted leader. “We also have to take into consideration that service member that is perhaps providing for an elderly parent or grandparent,” she said. The Guard has instituted programs to help, but there’s “always more that we can do.”

The leaders expressed their gratitude that forums such as this one are spotlighting the importance of financial education and awareness.

The military welcomes all the help it can get regarding financial issues, Gills said. “Our young men and women ... -- deployed, redeployed and deployed again -- shouldn’t have to worry about how they’re going to pay their bills and put food on the table for their families.”

If you’re looking to become more financially fit, contact Military OneSource or your installation financial advisor.

'GITMO 8' Trains Sailors to Save Lives

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel J. Meshel, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- The risk of injury during day-to-day operations while USS Enterprise (CVN 65) is underway in the Atlantic Ocean Dec. 5-14, presents a possible threat to the welfare of the crew and the success of the ship's mission.

To better prepare for accidental injury, Sailors aboard Enterprise are participating in a training series, known as "GITMO 8," which covers the treatment of the most common wounds and injuries.

GITMO 8 provides Sailors with knowledge to recognize and treat injuries such as amputations, sucking chest wounds and fractures. These guidelines for treatment allow all Sailors to be first responders in the event medical personnel are unable to reach the victims.

"The training was recorded and will be broadcast to the crew to help better prepare and train Sailors for mass casualty situations," said Lt. Darcy R. Guerricagoitia, Enterprise ship's nurse.

Guerricagoitia said the Medical department aboard the ship is one of the smallest departments and training Sailors to be first-responders during a mass casualty situation increases the chances of an injured shipmate receiving life-saving treatment.

"We've tried to make sure that we have disseminated [GITMO 8] throughout the entire crew," said Capt. Roderick L. Clayton, USS Enterprise physical therapist. "We don't want them to have to think too hard, because when the adrenaline starts pumping, sometimes you forget exactly what it is you are supposed to do for a given type of injury."

Using theatrical make-up and prosthesis to reproduce wounds found within the GITMO 8 training, Sailors recreate scenarios and injuries for maximum realism.

"We want to make it as realistic as possible so that if something were to happen, all [Enterprise Sailors] will understand how they can support medical by being first responders," said Clayton.

Along with training, Sailors are given itemized cards with a detailed template for responding to specific injuries found in the GITMO 8 training. Sailors are recommended to always keep a copy with them.

"They can pull the card out and go step-by-step to help treat wounds and potentially save their shipmate's life," said Guerricagoitia.

"We hope that everyone takes this training seriously, because one day, and it's not a matter of 'if,' but 'when,' you'll have to step in and save a Sailor's life," said Clayton.

Live From Kosovo: The mission begins

Sgt. 1st Class Jim Wagner
157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Public Affairs

As the last plane rolled down the tarmac in Kosovo, it marked the end of one part of our journey and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our year-long deployment.

I’m one of approximately 200 Wisconsin Army National Guard Soldiers of Headquarters Company, 157th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, and the 32th Military Police Company who are taking part in Operation Joint Guardian, a United Nations mission to bring safety and security to the people of Kosovo, a country that declared its independence from Serbia in 2008 after years of bitter fighting.

Our mission is conducted out of Camp Bondsteel, headquarters for Multi-National Battle Group-East, and we’re responsible for the safety and security of approximately half the country of Kosovo. Another U.N. Unit, MNBG-W, is responsible for the other half of the country, with overall authority for Kosovo Forces in Pristina, the Kosovo capital.

We’ve spent nearly three months — since Sept. 12 — training and getting our medical and personnel affairs in order to get where we are today. For some of us, it was the first time we’ve been away from home; for others, this is the latest in a long history of deployments. Either way, all of us were missing our families and friends back home and trying to make the best of living in barracks and eating Army chow hall food.

Our first stop was Camp Atterbury, Ind., where we received our final medical and personnel clearance, as well as Kosovo-specific training, to include weapons qualification. In early November, we were flown to Hohenfels U.S. Army Garrison, Germany, to receive more training. The Army’s premise for training is crawl, walk, run. Where Camp Atterbury was the crawl stage of training, Germany was where we started walking, pulling 12-hour-plus shifts daily for three weeks, training to staff operational maneuvers.

Now that we’re in Kosovo, it’s time to run.

But before we started our run, Thanksgiving awaited us after a more than 36-hour transport from Germany to Kosovo — a welcome respite after going full-tilt for nearly three months with limited down time. While it will never compare with Thanksgiving at home with the family, we were treated to a fantastic spread of turkey, ham, stuffing, vegetables, cranberry sauce and a blizzard of deserts.

Our living quarters are a little cramped right now as we go through the “left seat/right seat” changeover from the unit we’re replacing. Called the “crunch plan,” HHC, 157th MEB, is doubled up on sleeping quarters until the other unit leaves and we can spread out into our regular billeting plan. All things relative, billeting is better than most deployments I’ve been on in the past. All rooms are either 16 feet by 32 feet or 16 feet by 16 feet, depending on the Soldier’s rank and how many roommates share the room. (And after weeks sleeping in a bunk bed in an open-bay barracks, a bed with sheets seems a luxury!)

The weather is remarkably similar to Wisconsin, and we were greeted to 30-degree weather when we touched down in Pristina. Since then, the weather has been blustery and cloudy, with a very rare — and welcome — display of the sun Saturday afternoon. No snow yet, but we’ve been warned — with a shudder from our New Mexico-based counterparts who rarely see freezing temperatures, much less snow — it will be arriving any day now.

For two weeks we trained up to assume the duties of our respective jobs. Our unit officially took over operations at the Dec. 10 Transfer of Authority ceremony, when Col. Jeffrey Liethen assumed command of MNBG-E.

Want to know more about our mission and how we’re getting along here at Camp Bondsteel? Post a question below.

More to follow…

Naval Base Point Loma Participates in 'Wreaths Across America'

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Justin L. Webb, Naval Base Point Loma Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- More than 1,200 service members, veterans and civilians arrived at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery to lay nearly 3,000 wreaths on the graves of fallen troops Dec. 10.

These volunteers were participating in the 19th annual nationwide event, which is carried out in part by coordinating wreath laying ceremonies on the second Saturday of December at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as veterans' cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

This year's keynote speaker was retired Navy Seal Rear Adm. Raymond Smith, who took a few moments to reflect on the more than 105,000 service members and merchant marines laid to rest in Fort Rosecrans.

"This ceremony, which is being played out across our nation today, is a powerful indication that amidst the challenges we face in our nation all of us recognize that we must frequently stop our own busy lives and look to the past for inspiration and courage," he said. "Today we honor them all! Whether they served four years or forty years, there is no distinction. For the raising of one's right hand and swearing of one's allegiance to our nation and its citizens is sufficient to be recognized."

Commanding Officer Naval Base Point Loma Capt. Scott Adams participated in this year's event, and was able to place a ceremonial wreath on a wreath stand as a tribute to fallen Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Merchant Marines laid to rest in Fort Rosecrans and throughout the world.

"I was proud to represent the Navy while recognizing the sacrifices of the service members who have gone before me," said Adams. "However, more to the point of the day I believe, I was thankful for the men and women laid to rest on Rosecrans Hill and for the thousands more they represent who, refusing to be bystanders, took an active role in defending our freedom."

Engineman 3rd Class Kenitha Taylor, who volunteered for her second consecutive "Wreaths Across America" this year was honored to be involved in the ceremony.

"Being able to come here and pay tribute to the people who laid down their lives for us, puts what I'm doing more into perspective," she said. "I could one day be at risk, and it makes me proud to be a part of something bigger. This is what I do every day. It got emotional of course to think about the people who died for the freedoms we have."

Enterprise Hosts Distinguished Visitors While Underway

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristin L. Grover, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) is showcasing her Sailors and missions as the ship supports the Navy's Distinguished Visitor (DV) program.

DV embarkations are intended to increase awareness of the Navy's mission while highlighting the dedicated and professional service of its Sailors.

Enterprise hosted two such visits Dec. 10-12 while underway in the Atlantic Ocean for carrier qualifications. During these embarks, nearly 20 civilian leaders in business, government and finance toured the ship and got an inside look at shipboard operations.

"The distinguished visitors who come aboard Enterprise are from all walks of life," said Lt. Cmdr. Mark D. Kurtz, V-3 division officer. "When they depart the ship, they leave with a true sense of appreciation and amazement that they bring back to their jobs, giving them a renewed focus on supporting the Navy and our overall mission."

Guests are flown onto the ship in a carrier onboard delivery aircraft and spend a very busy 24 hours on the aircraft carrier. While onboard, the visitors get an in-depth experience of the aircraft carrier's primary function - launching and recovering aircraft.

DVs get a firsthand view of naval aviation and the constant action taking place aboard Enterprise from the flight deck, primary flight control, arresting gear and catapult spaces, a squadron "ready room", and the Carrier Air Traffic Control Center.

Kurtz said that visitors are always excited to watch flight operations and are impressed by the amount of coordination and activity on the flight deck.

An aircraft carrier is truly a "city at sea," and visitors can get a sense of what it takes to support the crew with visits to the ship's medical and dental department, the many dining facilities, the ship's chapel, Learning Resource Center, library, barber shops, and gyms.

Each department visited makes an effort to inform DVs about their individual responsibilities and the duties they perform.

"I want everyone who comes aboard to know that we are passionately dedicated to providing the highest standard of medical care to the great Americans who go to sea and defend our country's liberties," said Cmdr. Kevin J. Brown, senior medical officer. "I very much enjoy bragging about the amazing services that the young Sailors in our department are able to provide to their shipmates."

Allowing visitors to see the medical facilities available on the ship reassures the DVs that deployed Sailors will receive the same care they would back home.

Operating safely and accomplishing the carrier's mission requires many operational specialties and talented Sailors. Guests see a cross-section of some of what it takes to make the Enterprise run by visiting the navigation bridge and spaces such as the jet engine test shop, forecastle and machinery repair shop, and the weapons magazine.

Enterprise will be deploying on her 22nd deployment.

USS Oak Hill Ports Naval Station Guantanamo Bay

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Justin Ailes Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- Amphibious dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) ported Naval Station (NS) Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, Dec. 13.

After completing its deployment in support of Amphibious Southern Partnership Station in the Caribbean area of operations, the ship arrived to conduct agricultural countermeasure wash downs of all embarked equipment before returning to the U.S.

"This is the first chance that most of my crew of 300 and the other 400 embarked Marines, Air Force, Army and Coast Guard personnel have ever had to visit Guantanamo Bay," said Oak Hill Commanding Officer Cmdr. David Bauer. "I am honored to have had the opportunity to sail the Mighty Oak into this port, and we all look forward to meeting those of you stationed here and enjoying this excellent location."

NS Guantanamo Bay's Port Operations department served as the primary point of contact for the visiting vessel, arranging all services while in port.

"This visit is important for the Oak Hill as they are heading home after a successful deployment, and an agricultural wash down is a requirement prior to their return," said NS Guantanamo Bay Port Operations Officer Lt. Shawn Ware. "This will also benefit our department as we will capture all information pertaining to agricultural wash downs. The Port Operations department will finish the visit armed with a canned brief for future ships as well as recommendations for codifying and improving the process going forward."

During the Amphibious Southern Partnership Station deployment, Oak Hill conducted missions in coordination with military forces in Colombia, Panama, Honduras and Guatemala.

Navy Cyber Forces, NETWARCOM Sailors Help Families Celebrate Christmas

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Aaron Strickland, Navy Cyber Forces Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors from Navy Cyber Forces (CYBERFOR) and Naval Network Warfare Command (NETWARCOM) volunteered to help two charities make Christmas a little brighter for hundreds of Virginia Beach, Norfolk and Portsmouth, Va., families, Dec. 12.

The group of 10 Sailors joined 150 military and civilian volunteers and Salvation Army staff, helped distribute toys, food, clothing and other gifts donated through the Salvation Army.

Called the Christmas Depot, the week-long charity event combines the Tidewater Area Salvation Army with the Tidewater area Marine Corps' annual Toys for Tots campaign. In all, more than 20,000 children in 8,500 families - more than 39,000 individuals in total - are expected to receive donated presents during the Christmas Depot from Dec. 12-20.

"No matter how big this world seems, we're still all one community," said volunteer Information Systems Technician 1st Class David Hart, originally from San Antonio. "They are still my neighbors."

Christmas Depot was set up in a former retail warehouse, filled wall to wall with thousands of anonymously donated gifts for the deserving families. CYBERFOR and NETWARCOM volunteers helped families pick out toys, distributed 'Angel Tree' boxes filled with clothing for each family member, handed each parent a gift, and helped families load the gifts in their cars.

At the same time, Marines reloaded crates of donated toys to replace those going out the front door.

"We're here to help spread the holiday spirit," said Senior Chief Information Systems Technician Stefan Morrow, whose wife helped him hand out Christmas stockings.

Morrow said. "This is a nice kickoff to the holiday season to get us in the right spirit for giving."

Office of Naval Intelligence Sailors Lend their Expertise to Area Schools

From Office of Naval Intelligence Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Sailors from the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) are volunteer at four schools throughout the year in the Washington, D.C. area to tutor students in academics, athletics and life skills.

"Our Sailors simply want to make a difference in the community and help kids stay on the right track," said ONI Command Master Chief Billy Hill.

In addition to tutoring in science, mathematics and reading comprehension, ONI Sailors serve as Science Fair judges, vocabulary and sports coaches, and mentors in self discipline, goal setting, teamwork and resisting negative peer pressure.

Volunteers are members of the ONI Chief Petty Officers Association, First Class Petty Officers Association and White Hats Association. Sailors visit the schools to work with students for one hour each week.

In all, approximately 100 Sailors take part in the program and other community activities in the vicinity of ONI's headquarters.

"Our Sailors take a great deal of pleasure and pride in helping to start some wonderful kids down the road to success," said Hill. "I'm glad we are able to make a difference in their formative years."

Holly Petraeus Cites Need to Financially Empower Troops

By Elaine Sanchez
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON  – Potentially career-impacting financial issues are among the top concerns for service members and their families, a military finance expert said here yesterday.

“For military personnel, the consequences of a bad credit report can be devastating,” and may lead to security clearance loss or, in the worst-case scenario, be a career ender, said Holly Petraeus, the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Office of Servicemember Affairs.

Petraeus was among the speakers at the Financial Fitness Forum, which was sponsored by her office. The one-day event brought together representatives from financial institutions, credit unions and the military to learn more about troops and their families’ financial pitfalls and to brainstorm ways to better empower and educate them.

Financial problems, she explained, are now the No. 1 cause for security clearance loss, which may bar troops from doing their jobs. It’s a roadblock, she added, that potentially could lead to separation from service.

Petraeus cited the housing market as one of the key factors causing military families’ financial heartache. Housing values have dropped across the nation, she noted, and some families are finding themselves stuck with a house that’s worth less than what they owe on it.

Once they get orders to move, she added, they really get in a bind. They can’t sell the house and pay off the mortgage due to its lessened value, and may not be able to rent it out for enough to cover their payment. And if they’re not delinquent on their home, they’re unable to access various foreclosure prevention programs.

Petraeus said it’s the aim of her office to offer service members and their families support as they confront these types of issues. Her office, she explained, has three primary missions: to educate and empower service members and their families to make better financial decisions, to monitor consumer complaints and subsequent responses, and to coordinate federal and state agencies’ efforts to improve consumer financial protection measures.

Petraeus said she’s been encouraged by the support from some financial institutions. A number of them offer unique products to military customers and others have rolled out military-specific programs. She would like to learn more about these products and programs, she added, noting the forum offered a perfect opportunity to exchange this type of information and to foster new ideas.

As a lifetime military family member, she said, she’s always happy to hear ideas on how better to support military families. Petraeus grew up in a military family and her husband is retired Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, the CIA director.

Service members and their families, who so faithfully serve, “deserve the best treatment from both government and business,” she said.

Japanese Artist Thanks USS Essex for its Role in Operation Tomodachi

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Terry Matlock, USS Essex Public Affairs

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- A Japanese painter expressed his appreciation of forward deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and its role in Operation Tomodachi by presenting a painting to the command, Dec. 13.

Takashi Shima said he was inspired after taking a photo of Essex while he was on a tour of the JDS Kongo (DDG 173) and decided that he wanted to paint the ship as a way to express his gratitude. The water color painting shows Essex at sea during flight operations with several CH-53E Sea Stallions flying overhead.

"I think the Japanese people should thank the American military forces for all the help we received after the earthquake and disaster," said Shima. "Not all Japanese people are in a position to say thanks enough so I did the painting as my part."

During Operation Tomodachi, Essex joined USS Germantown (LSD 42) and USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) for three weeks in assisting Japan with humanitarian relief after a 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami struck the northeastern part of the country March 11. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked on board Essex distributed supplies by air and sea. There were 218 aircraft and landing craft in support of reconnaissance and relief distribution missions. Additionally, more than 166,000 pounds of supplies were delivered to the shore of Japan by the Essex Amphibious Ready Group.

Capt. David Fluker, USS Essex commanding officer, received the painting on behalf of the crew.

"It was a privilege to have Mr. Shima aboard Essex and a true honor to receive this wonderful painting on behalf of Essex crew," said Fluker. "Mr. Shima's gift of his beautiful artwork is another example of the mutual respect and natural bond between two great maritime nations. It is symbolic of our friendship with our Japanese partners and indicative of the maritime traditions that we share."

After being received by the commanding officer in his cabin, Mr. Shima toured the Essex and had a firsthand look at the ship that inspired him to create his piece of art. He stated he was impressed with the multiple capabilities of the Essex and he was pleased, after a closer look, that he represented Essex correctly in his painting.

SPANX® Delivers No Guts and All Glory to the Troops for the Holidays

Atlanta, GA, Dec. 14, 2011 – This year male military recipients of the USO’s annual holiday care package will feel support in a whole new way, thanks to a donation from Spanx.

Spanx, the problem-solving company best known for revolutionizing the women’s shapewear industry, has donated ten thousand of their men’s Cotton Compression Undershirts (valued at $58) in an effort to give servicemen a boost while they bravely serve overseas. Designed to comfortably firm the chest, flatten the stomach, support the lower back and improve posture, the shirts are part of USO-Metro’s Operation USO Care Package which will reach more than 10,000 servicemen just in time for the holidays.

Operation USO Care Package program began in 2003 and has distributed more than 2 million care packages to date, sending between 250,000 and 300,000 to deployed service members every year. The care packages contain an assortment of items that our military have specifically requested, such as prepaid international calling cards, disposable cameras, toiletries and entertainment items. The entire program is managed and supported by USO-Metro.

“The USO’s role is to do the little things to boost morale and let our nation’s service men and women know they are supported and appreciated,” said Elaine Rogers, president of the USO of Metropolitan Washington. “The continued generosity of the community makes it possible for USO-Metro to serve the troops and their families, and we are truly grateful for the support and generous donation Spanx has provided to our Operation USO Care Package program.”

“We launched SPANX for Men to help guys battle the bulge, and now we’re proud to donate SPANX Cotton Compression Undershirts to the men who go to battle for us every day,” said Spanx CEO Laurie Ann Goldman. “The shirts help men feel firmer and stand taller, and we hope they serve as a reminder to our servicemen that we stand firmly behind them. This donation is a unique way for Spanx to support the troops, and we appreciate the partnership of the USO to help make it happen.”

For more SPANX for Men information and images, click here; to see military hero and Dancing with Stars champion J.R. Martinez in a SPANX for Men Undershirt, click here. Photos from the Care Package stuffing event are also available by request.

About Spanx:
Spanx founder Sara Blakely was getting ready for a party when she realized she didn’t have the right undergarment to provide a blemish-free look under white pants. Armed with scissors and sheer genius, she cut the feet off her control top pantyhose and the Spanx revolution began! The problem-solving brand has become a red carpet must-have for celebrities and a daily necessity for women and men everywhere. Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, SPANX is available in 35 countries and now offers more than 200 products ranging from slimming apparel and swimsuits, to bras, activewear and men’s undershirts. These body-shaping innovations have secured SPANX a place in pop-culture, with daily mentions everywhere from CNN to SNL. In addition to keeping butts covered, SPANX also shapes the world by focusing on their mission: To help women feel great about themselves and their potential.

About USO of Metropolitan Washington
The USO of Metropolitan Washington is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization chartered by Congress and dedicated to “Serving those who serve, and their families” in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia.  It is through the generous financial support of individuals and organizations in the local community that USO-Metro is able to fulfill its mission. With the help of nearly 5,000 devoted volunteers, USO-Metro provides programs and services for active duty service members and their families at area military hospitals; through its Mobile USO program; at five USO Centers; four USO airport lounges and through Operation USO Care Package. 

Alison Abbey

Spanx PR

aabbey@spanx.com

678.500.1299

HELP MILITARY CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

TWEET2GIVE HOLIDAY CAMPAIGN CALLS ON PUBLIC TO ACT TODAY AND HELP MILITARY CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

DECEMBER 14, 2011   ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!), a non-profit organization based in Southern California, is using social media giant Twitter to raise much needed funds for its national Autism Care and Treatment for Military Families (ATMF) campaign which benefits military children with autism. The initiative calls on two teams – Team Naughty and Team Nice – to get as many Twitter followers to spread the word, and make online donations during December 14 through December 30, 2011.

All donations must be made at bit.ly/s3rnQJ.

According to recent figures from The Department of Defense, 1 in every 88 military children has autism. Autism is more prevalent than juvenile diabetes, pediatric cancer and childhood AIDS.  Military families who have children with autism are fighting 2 battles -- one for their country, and the one for care and treatment for their children.

“We currently have an autism crisis,” says Andrekka Lanier, ATMF Campaign Director, Marine wife and mother of a child with autism. “ACT Today!’s Tweet2Give campaign will not only draw more awareness to the plight of military children with autism, but also help raise funds for necessary care and treatment these children need to reach their full potential.”

Anyone with access to a computer can participate, by setting up a Twitter account. Then, doing the following steps:

Step 1
Before tweeting please add @Act_Today and @TweetTwoGive to the people you follow on Twitter.

Step 2
Announce to your followers that you have joined the contest and include the link to the ACT Today! for Military Families video at bit.ly/s3rnQJ.

SAMPLE TWEET: Just joined the “Nice Team” to raise $$ for ACT Today! for Military Families.  The fundraising contest starts Dec 14 - bit.ly/s3rnQJ

Step 3
During the 2nd week of the contest send your donation request tweet again.

SAMPLE TWEET: The contest for ACT Today! For Military Families starts now. Please give what you can and retweet - bit.ly/s3rnQJ
 
About ACT TODAY!:
ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing funding to families that cannot afford or access the treatments their children with autism need. For more information about ACT Today!, visit: www.act-today.org.

SECDEF Statement on Under Secretary Flournoy

“Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Michèle Flournoy has today announced her intention to step down and return to private life.  In her discussions with me, Michèle made clear that her decision to leave is motivated by personal and family considerations.  I am very pleased that she has agreed to stay on until early next year to enable a smooth transition.

“Michèle has been an invaluable advisor to me during my six months as secretary of defense, and has been an outstanding departmental leader for nearly three years at a time of great consequence for our nation’s defense.  From guiding our strategy in Afghanistan and Iraq, to helping set the department’s priorities and global posture through the 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review as well as the strategy review that has been underway this year, Michèle has made a strong and lasting positive imprint on this department and on our nation’s security. 

“Michèle is a treasured colleague, and the entire Department of Defense will be sad to see her go, but she has built an incredible team that is a testament to her leadership.  I will personally miss her valued counsel, but I understand the stresses and strains that holding senior administration positions can have on families.  I look forward to having the opportunity to paying full tribute to Michèle and wish her and her family all the best in the next stage of their lives.  I’m confident that she will have many years of service in her future.”

7th Fleet Visits Naval Air Facility Misawa

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Darrius Wharton, U.S. Naval Air Facility Misawa Public Affairs

MISAWA, Japan (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet paid a visit to the Sailors of Naval Air Facility Misawa, its tenant commands, and deployed Patrol Squadron (VP) 1, Dec. 12.

This is Vice Adm. Scott Swift's first visit to Misawa, and coincides with the return of rotationally-deployed VP squadrons to this northern-Japan located U.S. naval installation.

"The return of P-3 deployments to Misawa is a return to pre-2007 levels, and I want to ensure our Sailors receive the resources they need to accomplish the mission," Swift said. "These are some fantastic facilities here, and I foresee Misawa, its Sailors and assets continuing to play a vital role in protecting the stability of the region."

Swift also talked about his vision for the fleet.

"The 7th Fleet business model is people come first," Swift said. "I say people first because it's not just about the Sailors, it's also about their families and our civilian employees."

"Leadership needs to be engaged, and it's important that commanders are making sure their Sailors have the keys to success for what they want to do in the Navy or as they transition to a new career in the civilian sector.

Swift said he is happy with the performance of 7th Fleet and its Sailors.

"It's an honor for me to call myself a 7th Fleet Sailor," said Swift. "I couldn't be happier with the extraordinary work I see these Sailors doing."

Wisconsin Challenge Academy to honor 103 graduates, scholarship recipients

One hundred and three cadets from 38 counties will graduate from the Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy in a noon ceremony Dec. 17 at Mauston High School.

The Challenge Academy reshapes the lives of at-risk 16-to-18-year-olds. It uses a structured, military-style environment and state-certified teachers and counselors to build cadets' academic abilities, character, self-confidence, and personal discipline.

After graduating from the 22-week residential phase of academy training, cadets are paired with hometown mentors who offer guidance and encouragement in pursuing their new direction in life.

U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson is scheduled to address graduates along with their parents, relatives, mentors, and friends on hand to celebrate their success.

Five prior Challenge Academy graduates will receive scholarships to the colleges of their choice. Aaron Brandau of Brookfield, Wis., was selected to receive a $5,000 National Guard Youth Foundation Regional Scholarship. Brandau is enrolled at UW-Waukesha pursuing a degree in marketing. The Foundation will also award $1,000 scholarships to Brenden Sann of Wausau, Wis., and Samuel Puchalla of Kiel, Wis. Sann is currently attending UW- Marathon County majoring in psychology, while Puchalla is attending Indian Hills Community College pursuing a degree in criminal justice. Isaac O'Keefe of Eau Claire, Wis., will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship from ManTech International Corporation. O'Keefe is attending Globe University majoring in massage therapy. Oshkosh Defense will award a $1,000 scholarship to Michale Schiffer of West Salem, Wis. Schiffer is currently attending Western Wisconsin Technical College pursuing a degree in Web and software development.

Twenty-eight states and Puerto Rico offer similar programs nationwide. More than 100,000 teens have successfully completed the National Guard youth programs since 1993. In Wisconsin more than 86 percent of cadets who finish the program receive their high school equivalency diploma (HSED), and more than 80 percent stay out of trouble with the law.

The Wisconsin Challenge Academy will begin its next class Jan. 12, 2012. Applications are available for future classes by contacting the Challenge Academy at (866) 968-8422 or visiting their website at Challengeacademy.org.

Keeping Sailors 'Happy' During the Holidays

By Lt. Tom Gordy, Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The director for Personnel Readiness and Community Support offered ways to reduce stress during the holiday season, Dec. 12.

The holidays can be a joyous time for Sailors and their families, but they can also be stressful.

By doing some simple things, most people can manage their stress and have an enjoyable and safe holiday, said Rear Adm. Martha Herb, director, Personnel Readiness and Community Support.

"We can feel the full range of emotions during this holiday time. They can range from happiness and joy to extreme stress. And we can deal with the stress if we plan appropriately," said Herb, a member of the explosive ordnance disposal community and a licensed clinical professional counselor.

There are practical steps Sailors can take to manage the stress of the holidays, to include: maintaining an exercise routine; ensuring enough sleep; taking time to relax; planning and keeping to a budget for gift-giving; and celebrating in moderation.

But if the stress and struggles seem overwhelming, Sailors are encouraged to ask for help.

"It's ok to reach out and ask for help. In fact, it takes courage to reach out and tell somebody, 'I'm struggling. I need some help.' If you take the time to ask for help you can solve your issues and move on," said Herb.

Sailors are also encouraged to help shipmates navigate stress by taking the time to be a friend and listen.

"Everybody needs a friend," said Herb. "Everybody needs to be connected with another person. By connecting with somebody, you help them feel better and help them deal with stressors in life."

Herb reminded Sailors that they can make a positive difference in the life of a shipmate who is struggling by taking a little extra time to A.C.T - Ask if they need help; Care enough to listen, offer hope and not judge; and Treat, take action, get proper professional assistance, and follow up.

Additionally, command leaders can maintain a healthy unit by being familiar with the resources the Navy offers and recommending them to their Sailors who are dealing with stress or thoughts of suicide. These resources include Military OneSource at www.MilitaryOneSource.com and 1-800-342-9647, the Veterans Crisis Line at http://www.veteranscrisisline.net and 1-800-273-8255, Navy Fleet and Family Support Program, Navy chaplains and medical providers.

By looking out for each other and planning ahead, Sailors can make sure that their holidays are happy for themselves and their shipmates.

NAVAIR, Industry Team Up for Command's First Wounded Warrior Career Day

From Naval Air Systems Command Public Affairs

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (NNS) -- More than 100 wounded warriors and disabled veterans attended NAVAIR's first Wounded Warrior Career Day at the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum in Lexington Park, Md., Dec. 6.

"Employing wounded warriors and veterans is one of our highest priorities at NAVAIR. We know full well the value of this effort," said NAVAIR Commander Vice Adm. David Architzel.

The event included a career fair with 38 exhibitors and 30 NAVAIR hiring managers. Guest speaker Edward Crenshaw, author of "The PERCEVD Principles: Preparing Employers to Reintegrate Combat Exposed Veterans with Disabilities," listed strategies on how to support veterans in the civilian workplace, including being flexible and accommodating and acknowledging their achievements.

Mentoring programs and focus groups are part of the infrastructure needed to retain veterans, he said. "Mentoring programs go a long way toward making our veterans feel they are not alone," he said.

Most important, managers need to perform a self-assessment to determine what they are doing right in the recruitment and retaining process and how they can improve.

"I challenge you to evolve, change, restructure, rethink," Crenshaw said.

The event kicked off with a meet-and-greet and informal dinner for the 28 disabled veterans who traveled from Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, to Patuxent River Dec. 5. NAVAIR has formed a strong partnership with the medical center and will serve as the primary hiring funnel for wounded warriors transitioning out of that facility, helping both government and private industry hire and support these veterans. A formal memorandum of agreement will be signed in January 2012.

Natashia Turner, an Army human resources specialist, was injured while stationed in England and is undergoing treatment at Brooke Army Medical Center. She said she is inspired by the many amputees she meets, comparing them to superheroes.

"It teaches you that there is life after your injury and to stay positive and motivated, because attitude is everything," she said.

David Regan, a NAVAIR logistics management specialist, can speak to having a positive attitude. His story is nothing short of a medical miracle.

On his second Iraq tour as an Army sergeant combat engineer, Regan's vehicle was hit by an explosively formed projectile. The projectile burned through the side of the vehicle, hit Regan's head and burned through and exited his skull before blazing through the other side of the vehicle. He was in a coma for nearly three months and was not expected to survive.

Three weeks after he awoke from his coma, he ran a mile on the hospital's treadmill and eventually competed in the 2011 Wounded Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo. That's where he first learned about NAVAIR and applied to its four-year Naval Acquisition Development Program.

Within this program, Regan said he has enjoyed rotating positions and learning about all facets of the business.

He encouraged veterans to initiate conversations and ask employers what they need and what they are looking for.

"NAVAIR can offer this great program, but the transitioning veterans have to really want it and go after it," he said. "This is not a job fair; this is not NAVAIR offering jobs. This is NAVAIR offering careers."

One theme at the event was clear: Veterans offer a wealth of attributes that are transferrable to the civilian work world, including resilience, leadership, love of country, discipline, drive and teamwork.

"I think the best thing that the Army has ever taught me is being able to know how to treat your fellow comrade, co-worker," said job seeker Qwenolyn Kendle. "That's something that has changed my life."

Kendle, who was injured in Afghanistan, advised her fellow wounded warriors to stay proactive. "Just because you're missing a limb, it doesn't mean that you can't do it," she said. "You just have another way of rethinking things. Reinvent yourself."

The mission of NAVAIR's Wounded Warrior Program is to recruit, hire, train and retain wounded warriors from across the United States. In fiscal year 2011, NAVAIR hired 586 veterans, 155 of whom were disabled.

"With a mission to honor and empower wounded warriors and all veterans, NAVAIR is joining the many national programs which encourage warriors to push through their external and internal wounds, to adjust to their new normal and to achieve new triumphs," said NAVAIR Vice Commander Rear Adm. Steve Eastburg.

NAVAIR also works with NAVSEA, SPAWAR and the Director, Naval Acquisition Career Management, as well as private sector organizations, to maximize wounded warrior employment, training and transitioning opportunities nationwide.

"We will do everything we can to hire disabled veterans at NAVAIR, and if we can't, we will help them find work with other employers," Architzel said. "At the end of the day, it doesn't matter who does the hiring. What matters is that these men and women be matched with meaningful employment."

DOD to Honor Blood Donors for Saving Lives

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

WASHINGTON  – The Defense Department plans to recognize blood donors early next year for their critical contributions to saving lives by giving blood to the Armed Services Blood Program, the program’s director said today.

“National Blood Donor Month, which is usually January of every year, is an attempt to recognize those blood donors and everyone involved in blood donation for their sacrifices and rolling up their sleeves in 2011,” Army Col. Frank Rentas, director of the Armed Services Blood Program, said during a Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service interview here.

“Next month … we will be recognizing those donors that have supported our mission,” he said. “Our mission is to provide blood and blood supplies whenever and wherever they’re needed.”

The joint program plays a key role in providing quality blood products for service members and their families in both peacetime and war, according to its website.

Rentas noted the demand for blood -- which only lasts 42 days in storage before perishing -- and shared different needs for blood donation which are based on the needs of the war fighter.

“Most people, when you say ‘blood,’ they refer to red blood cells,” he said. “With red blood cells, O-negative is the most sought-after blood type because you can transfuse it to anyone out there.

“If you are looking at plasma, it’s completely opposite,” Rentas continued. “AB plasma is what we need because AB plasma is universal. So depending on our needs, we may target specific donors or specific blood types depending on what we need for a specific week.”

The program director detailed the importance of receiving donations since one donor can potentially save three lives.

“If they’re donating whole blood … we split that unit into plasma and red cells,” he explained. “One donation can actually save three different lives because we can make platelets out of some of those units as well.

“So the platelets can actually go to one recipient, the plasma can go to another, and the red cells can go to another,” Rentas added. “So that would be three different recipients that you can save with one donation.”

People can donate whole blood every 56 days, Rentas said, but some aren’t eligible to donate. “Overseas, depending on where you are, you may or may not be able to donate,” he explained.

An example, Rentas said, is people who were based in Europe in areas afflicted with what is known as Mad Cow Disease. “Even though I’m an O-negative blood donor, and donated many, many times in the [1980’s], I was assigned to Germany from 1987 to 1990,” Rentas continued, “and I have not been able to donate since because of Mad Cow Disease. Even though I feel perfectly fine, I’m not allowed to donate.”

The colonel cited the Federal Drug Administration as the authority which dictates policies and guidelines to both civilian and DOD blood donor facilities.

“We’re licensed to collect because we do have an FDA license,” he said. “So we need to follow their policies … one of their policies is if you have been in specific places where Mad Cow Disease has been a concern, you’re not allowed to donate.”

People can donate blood at more than 20 sites worldwide. Those who cannot donate blood, can still contribute by passing on the word, Rentas said.

“The best place for [service members] to get information is our website, www.militaryblood.dod.mil,” he said. “[It has] anything that they need to know about locations, they can make appointments [and] reasons about why they may not be able to donate.”

Rentas expressed his gratitude to donors for “rolling up their sleeves” to give blood and he encouraged them to continue to support the program.

“If you come to a DOD blood donor facility in January, we’re going to be holding recognition ceremonies to express our gratitude for what you have done in 2011,” he said.

Army’s Army Hosts “Special Friends Ops” for Children of Fallen Soldiers

Kid-friendly military boot camp to take place at Fort Bragg’s Camp Mackall

Fayetteville, NC – December 6, 2011 – Children of fallen soldiers in Fayetteville/Cumberland County, NC, will get to enjoy an all-day military boot camp on Saturday, December 17, 2011. “Special Friends Ops” is being presented by the Army’s Army in conjunction with Fort Bragg’s Survivor Outreach Services and the SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape) program. Organizers are expecting at least 50 children and their families to take part in this unique, interactive event, where they will learn wilderness survival skills and have the opportunity to bond with each other and with other survivor families.

When a soldier is killed in the line of duty, the families left behind often have a difficult time coping and feel isolated from what had become their military family. Fort Bragg’s Survivor Outreach Services is dedicated to advocating on behalf of these families and reassuring them that they are a part of the Army Family for as long as they like.

The children of the fallen are a very, very special group of kids that we believe we can help,” said Janine West, Executive Director of the Army’s Army. “We hope our Special Friends Ops event for them is just the first of many to come.”

Special Friends Ops will be led by SERE instructor Gordon Smith, who spent 26 years in the Special Forces.

The SERE program provides Special Operations soldiers, including Special Forces candidates, Civil Affairs, Military Information Support and Special Operations aviators and crew, with training in survival, evasion escape and the Code of Conduct. Special Forces students train at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School for up to two years to become qualified to join Special Forces. SERE is one of the steps in this rigorous training.

Children attending Special Friends Ops will enjoy a day of interactive instruction and outdoor adventures. They will learn things like how to build a shelter out of surroundings in the woods, how to start a fire without matches, how to purify water, how to identify poisonous wildlife and primitive cooking techniques. Event sponsor and Army’s Army partner Outback Steakhouse will serve lunch and provide giveaways.

“Fort Bragg is committed to supporting our surviving families,” said Amy Melendez, Support Coordinator for Survivor Outreach Services. “We hope this event will allow children of the fallen and their families to relax and grow closer with one another, as well as with other survivors.”

Special Friends Ops will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on December 17 at Camp Mackall. There is no charge to participate. Families of the fallen interested in participating can RSVP to Amy Melendez at (910) 396-0384 or amy.melendez@us.army.mil. Questions about the event can be directed to Janine West at (910) 709-9671 or jlwest@armysarmy.com. For more information on the Army’s Army, visit www.armysarmy.com or www.brieffromthefront.com.

About The Army’s Army:

Fayetteville/Cumberland County is America’s first sanctuary community for the Military and their Families. The Army’s Army is the world’s only volunteer organization of citizens and businesses who have pledged their moral, physical and spiritual support to those in the military. We do everything we can to make soldiers, veterans and their families feel welcome, appreciated and safe. The Army’s Army is dedicated to “watching over those who watch over us©.” For additional information, visit www.armysarmy.com.

Military Discounts Blog Serves as Valuable Resource for Soldiers in Fayetteville, NC This Holiday Season

Army’s Army Launches One-Stop Shop for Military and Their Families Fayetteville, NC – December 8, 2011 – Military families face a series of unique challenges when moving to a new area. Times are especially tough for them this holiday season given the current state of the economy. That's why Fayetteville/Cumberland County, North Carolina, has created an online relocation resource specifically with them in mind: the Military Discounts blog features an up-to-date list of discounts at Fayetteville-area businesses, national companies and online retailers for soldiers, veterans and their families. Visit the blog at www.FayettevilleMilitaryDiscounts.com.

The Military Discounts blog highlights discounts in a variety of categories, including amusements, art, dining, golf, lodging, services, shopping and sports. Participating businesses range from small, local mom-and-pop businesses to select locations of major national retailers. It is currently made up of more than 300 participating businesses. The Military Discounts blog is a joint effort between the Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Army’s Army, the world's only volunteer organization of businesses and individuals who have pledged their moral, physical and spiritual support to those in the military by “watching over those who watch over us.”

“The Military Discounts blog is one of the many ways we help make soldiers, veterans and their families feel welcome, safe and appreciated in Fayetteville/Cumberland County,” said Janine West, Executive Director of the Army’s Army. “Especially now that times are so tough, we wanted to make sure those who serve and have served our country in the military can easily find all of the discounts that are available to them.” The blog highlights a different discount each month. This month’s feature is a 10 percent discount on all parts, services and accessories to all active duty military at Hendrick Chrysler Jeep. Hendrick Chrysler Jeep has been a proud Army’s Army partner for almost two years. It is located at 543 North McPherson Church Road in Fayetteville. Other featured discounts this month include PWC, Systel Business Equipment and International Minute Press.

The Army's Army, which was established in 2008, created FayettevilleWantsYou.com to make the transition to the area smoother for military families. The interactive website connects relocating families directly to local residents and Army's Army members, while also providing area information like healthcare, education, employment and housing. It serves as a welcome wagon and information resource for relocating families. The Military Discounts blog is housed within this site. For more information on the Army’s Army, visit ArmysArmy.com or BriefFromTheFront.com.

About The Army’s Army:

Fayetteville/Cumberland County is America’s first sanctuary community for the military and their families. The Army’s Army is the world’s only volunteer organization of citizens and businesses who have pledged their moral, physical and spiritual support to those in the military. We do everything we can to make soldiers, veterans and their families feel welcome, appreciated and safe. The Army’s Army is dedicated to “watching over those who watch over us©.” For additional information, visit www.ArmysArmy.com.