New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
DMAVA Highlights » 19 February 2009

Volume 9, Number 6

NJ Dept of Military and Veterans Affairs

Maj. Gen. Glenn K. Rieth
The Adjutant General

Brig. Gen. Maria Falca-Dodson
Deputy Adjutant General

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

Contacting us is easy!


Public Affairs Office

Staff Sgt. Barbara Harbison barbara.harbison@njdmava.state.nj.us Or

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

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

PAO Office DMAVA Highlights
ATTN: Staff Sgt. Barb Harbison

Deadline is noon Wednesday

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

DMAVA Highlights Archive

DMAVA Highlights Archive Page



Veterans' Organizations Contact Information

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


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



Veterans Hotlines


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

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

Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline

1-800-984-8523



NJ World War II Memorial


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

WWII Memorial on the web

 

ESGR Office

JFHQ 3650 Saylors Pond Road Fort Dix, NJ 08641

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


Phone numbers and Web sites to remember

Directory Assistance:

1-602-293-4907

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

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

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

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

 

DMAVA Emergency Hotline:

1-866-232-5798

 

State Family Programs
101 Eggert Crossing  Road
Lawrenceville 

Toll-free number
  888-859-0352

Family Assistance
609-530-6884

Teen Youth Group 
609-530-6836
Fax: 609-530-6871

Call a Chaplain
24/7
609-694-0635
609-802-8125

Get your VA benefits as a Direct Deposit into your checking or savings account

call 800-333-1795
or visit www.GoDirect.org

 

 

Quotes for the Week   

The only legitimate right to govern is an express grant of power from the government.

-William Henry Harrison

Lost time is never found again.

- Benjamin Franklin

It’s great to be great, but it’s greater to be human.

- Will Rogers

Life is a festival only to the wise.

-  Ralph Waldo Emerson

He who tickles himself may laugh when he pleases.

-  German proverb

 

 

 

 


Download PDF Version of this week's highlights

 

News For Your Views


New Jersey Air Guard announces nominations for national awards

By Tech. Sgt. Mark Olsen, NJDMAVA/PA

Joint Force Headquarters-New Jersey (Air) announced the results of the judging for the New Jersey state nominations for the national Air Force Outstanding Airman of the Year Awards program and the Major General Richard "Craig" Cosgrave Chiefs Award.

The 177th Fighter Wing led the way taking three of the five New Jersey state nominations for the Air Force Outstanding Airman of the Year Awards as well as garnering the prestigious Chiefs Award.

And the winners are…

  • 2009 Airman of Year nomination – Senior Airman Bradley S. Ferguson, 177th Fighter Wing Maintenance Squadron
  • 2009 Non-Commissioned Officer of Year nomination – Tech. Sgt. Jamie L. DeCosta, 177th Fighter Wing Operations Support Flight
  • 2009 Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of Year nomination – Chief Master Sgt. Lance C. Endee, 108th Air Refueling Wing Security Forces Squadron
  • 2009 First Sergeant of Year nomination – Senior Master Sgt. Marie M. Reavis, 108th Air Refueling Wing Civil Engineering Squadron
  • 2009 Honor Guard Member of Year nomination – Staff Sgt. Jamie A. Tonkinson, 177th Fighter Wing Maintenance Squadron
  • 2008 Major General Richard "Craig" Cosgrave Chief's Award winner – Chief Master Sgt. Donald E. Harris, 177th Fighter Wing Civil Engineering Squadron.

The Air Force Outstanding Airman of the Year Awards, which are selected by the Air Force Chief of Staff at the national level, recognizes 12 enlisted members in a range of grades representing a cross section of the Air Force’s career fields.  The Airmen are honored at the Air Force Association’s annual convention in Washington, D.C.  The program was initiated at the Air Force Association's 10th annual national Conference, held in New Orleans in 1956.

Applicants are judged in the three areas.  The first, superior leadership and job performance covers how well the Airman performed assigned primary and additional duties and includes any new initiatives or techniques developed by the member that positively impacted the unit and/or the mission.  Second is significant self-improvement.  Here the judges look at how the applicant has developed or improved skills related to their primary duties.  This also includes any off-duty education not directly related to primary duties. In addition, they look at any other training or activity that significantly enhanced the member’s value as a military citizen.  The last area of judging is community involvement, and personal achievements.  This covers the scope and impact of the Airman’s positive leadership and involvement in both the military and civilian community.

Ferguson, DeCosta, Endee, Reavis and Tonkinson will now go on to compete at the National Guard Bureau against all the other states.  Should they win, they will compete against their active-duty counterparts.


History teachers tour HSCOE, Lawrenceville museum as part of program

Teachers from the Trenton, Edison, and Plainfield School Districts participated in an all-day program exploring the Global War on Terrorism at the Militia Museum of New Jersey in Lawrenceville on Feb. 7. The 35 history teachers had a class by Professor Eric Davis of Rutgers University, toured the museum and then visited the HSCOE. Staff at the HSCOE briefed the teachers on what the National Guard does to support the civilians of New Jersey in the situations of a natural disaster or a terrorist threat. This helped Davis and the teachers have a better understanding for their group study on Sept. 11. The Recruiting and Retention Office was also present with information and handouts for the teachers. This colloquium was made possible through the New Jersey Council for the Humanities Teacher Grant Fund Program.


Doyle Cemetery Advisory Council selling Palm crosses for Easter season

The Brig. Gen. William Doyle Cemetery Advisory Council is selling Easter Season Palm Crosses to be placed on graves at the cemetery.  For those who wish to purchase the crosses for their loved one’s graves, the cost it $15 and orders must be placed by March 23. 

Send your name, phone number, address, name of the deceased with their grave number and section with the check made payable to “BG Doyle Cemetery Memorialization Fund,” 350 Provinceline Road, Wrightstown NJ 08562.  The crosses will be placed on the graves by April 3.  One cross per grave.

This is a fundraiser and profits benefit the beautification of the cemetery.


JFHQ’s Hail and Farewell at Dix on March 21

JFHQ is holding an Officer and Enlisted Hail and Farewell dinner – Spring Fling and a Little Gambling – on March 21 at 5:30 p.m. on the Fort Dix drill floor.  Dress is business casual.  Retirees and all former members of STARC/JFHQ's and other DMAVA employees are welcome to attend.   Cost is $25 per person.  There will be casino games (no real money will be used) and a DJ for dancing following the dinner and presentation of awards.  For information and reservations, call Chief Warrant Officer Paul Sleeper, 609-562-0331 or e-mail:  paul.sleeper@us.army.mil.  Money and reservations need to be in no later than March 8. 


Guard, Reserve retirement seminar slated for May 9

Piling up those years in service? Wondering about your military retirement benefits while awaiting that day when retirement pay is coming into your account? Mark May 9 on your calendar.

A Guard and Reserve Retirement Benefit seminar will be held on May 9 at the Timmerman Center, Fort Dix, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. It is free to all Guard, Reserve, spouses and retirees. Civilian attire is authorized.

Presenters from military service centers, Veterans Affairs, Department of Labor, and various military transition organizations will cover topics from Guard and Reserve perspective such as: Survivor Benefit Plan, Tricare/Dental, Veterans benefits, VA disability and more.


Career fair for military, Guard, family members on March 12

RecruitMilitary will be hosting a career fair in cooperation with HireVets First and the American Legion on March 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Citizens Bank Park (Home of the Philadelphia Phillies).  It is being hosted to benefit all veterans, transitioning military personnel, members of the Guard and Reserve and military family members in the greater Philadelphia area. 

Job seekers who would like to pre-register for the event can go here:  http://careerfairs.recruitmilitary.com/cf/181-Philadelphia/candidates/information

A flyer that you can print, post, and forward to anyone that may benefit from this free event can be found here:     http://careerfairs.recruitmilitary.com/cf/181-Philadelphia/candidates/poster.pdf.


Annual business meeting for NGANJ scheduled for April 25

By Capt. Paul Koester, Acting Secretary, NGANJ

Attention all National Guard Association of New Jersey Officers and Warrant Officers – The NGANJ annual meeting will be held on April 25 at Timmerman Theater on Fort Dix. Sign-in will start at 7:30 a.m. with the meeting starting at 8 a.m. Breakfast items will be provided. Dress is business casual, (elected officers - coat and tie). All members are highly encouraged to attend as this year is an election year. For more information or questions, contact Capt. Paul Koester at 609-754-2128.


NGANJ announces executive council meeting dates for 2009

Here is a list of the National Guard Association of New Jersey Executive Council meetings for 2009.

Date                Host Command                     Location

April 7              108th ARW                               McGuire AFB

April 25            NGANJ Annual Business Mtg     Timmerman Theater, Fort Dix

July 7               50th IBCT                                 McGuire AFB

Sept. 11-13      131st NGAUS General Conf.     Nashville, Tenn.

Oct. 6               177th FW                                 McGuire AFB

Jan. 5, 2010     42nd RSG                                 McGuire AFB

All meetings will be held at the 108th ARW Conference Room, McGuire Air Force Base unless otherwise noted. All Executive Council meetings begin at 7 p.m.; food will be provided at 6:30 p.m. The annual business meeting will begin at 8 a.m. and sign-in starts at 7:30 a.m. If there are any questions, contact Capt. Paul Koester at 609-754-2128.


Military Saves helps military, family to financial readiness

Military Saves is a DoD-wide financial readiness campaign to persuade military service and family members, as well as the wider military community, to reduce debt and save money thereby ensuring personal financial readiness and positively impacting the nation's personal/household savings rates.  It is part of America Saves Week, Feb. 22 through March 1.

Military Saves' strategies include "The Saver Pledge," a commitment to exercise good financial habits and encourage other Americans to do the same. Savers who enroll online receive electronic newsletters and e-Wealth Coach advice.  Military Saves also invites defense credit unions and military banks to aggressively promote automatic deposits to savings accounts, and asks military and private organizations to promote saving and debt reduction to members, employees, and customers.  Military Saves encourages:

  •   Developing a personal financial plan
  •   Establishing good credit
  •   Saving a portion of each paycheck
  •   Enrolling in SGLI, TSP, and (when eligible) SDP

All four Services and the U.S. Coast Guard participated in the campaign in

2007 and 2008, enrolling more than 25,000 individuals and stimulating more than 100,000 positive financial actions such as putting money in savings or investment accounts.  More than 80 credit unions and military banks participated in a wide variety of activities to promote personal financial readiness. 

Who is eligible?  Active duty, National Guard and Reserve service members, DoD civilians, retirees, veterans, defense contractors, and family members of all ages.    

Locations:  Online

For more information:  http://www.militarysaves.org/.


Important information regarding state health benefits eligibility audit

Recently a letter was mailed to many State employees requesting that by Feb. 20, 2009, documents be submitted to verify the eligibility of dependents who are receiving State health care benefits. You may have received or heard of this letter. The letter is part of an eligibility audit program of the State Health Benefits Plan (SHBP) that is required by law. The letter states that if you do not provide the information by Feb.20, your dependents will not be covered.

Please be advised that no eligible dependent will be removed from the State Health Benefits Plan on Feb. 20, 2009. While we had originally asked that the documents be submitted by Feb. 20, we recognize this may present a hardship. We are asking those of you who received the letter to get the documentation as soon as possible so that the audit process moves forward. We will send a reminder to those who received the mailing in the next few weeks establishing a deadline for submission.

For those of you who did not receive a letter, please be advised you will also be receiving a written notice requiring that you verify the eligibility of dependent coverage. This will be an individual notice sent to your address and it will include a deadline for response and instructions.

Because the letter has generated questions among many recipients, the Division of Pensions and Benefits soon will prepare and post on its Web site a special "FAQ” page that will provide detailed information and address concerns about the eligibility audit and its requirements.

Audit programs are important and are used by many businesses and governments to ensure that only those eligible are covered and we look forward to implementing the audit in a way that satisfies our legal obligation but is still fair and with adequate notice to our State workforce.

Please do not hesitate to contact the SHBP Dependent Eligibility Verification Service Center at 1-866-641-5651 if you have any additional questions.


Family Medical Leave Act recognizes service members’ families

On January 16, 2009, the Department of Labor published a final rule related to family leave in connection with injured members of the armed forces.  The National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2008 (NDAA) amended the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) to permit a "spouse, son, daughter, parent, or next of kin" to take up to 26 workweeks of leave during a 12-month period to care for a "member of the Armed Forces, including a member of the National Guard or Reserves, who is undergoing medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy, is otherwise in outpatient status, or is otherwise on the temporary disability retired list, for a serious injury or illness."  For more information visit the United State Department of Labor website at http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/fmla/ndaa_fmla.htm.


NJ Vietnam Memorial, Brookdale CC hold writer’s events

New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation and Brookdale Community College present “An Afternoon With Tim O’Brien” on March 8 at 1 p.m. There is a $5 suggested donation for the Memorial Foundation for this event.

Then, on March 9, the two groups will also host “Visiting Writers Lecture by Tim O’Brien” and BCC Visiting Writings Series at 7 p.m.  A $3 suggested donation will be for the BCC Creative Writing Club.

Both events will be held at the Lincroft campus of Brookdale Community College in the Warner Student Life Center, Navesink Rooms I and II. 

The author of eight books, Tim O’Brien received the National Book Award in Fiction in 1979 for his novel Going After Cacciato.  In 2005 The Things They Carried was named by the New York Times as one of the twenty best books of the last quarter century.  It received the Chicago Tribune Heartland Award in fiction and was a finalist for both the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award.  The title story was selected by John Updike for inclusion in The Best American Short Stories of the Century.  In the Lake of the Woods, published in 1994, was chosen by Time magazine as the best novel of that year.  O’Brien’s other works include If I Die in a Combat Zone, Northern Lights, Tomcat in Love and July, July.  His short fiction has appeared in numerous journals, including The New Yorker, Atlantic, Esquire, Playboy, and Harper’s

For more information call 732-335-0033 or visit www.njvvmf.org.


DMAVA Green

By Tech. Sgt. Barb Harbison, DMAVA Public Affairs Specialist

Did you get another credit card offer in the mail with a fake plastic ID card? How about that gift card you got from your sister for Christmas – I bet that’s long spent. Did you just get your new insurance card and now have an old one to toss? There’s a place that will take your old plastic cards and recycle them into plastic sheets that will become new gift cards, ID cards and more.

Earthworks takes old plastic cards, puts them through a process and creates sheets of plastic that can be stamped and printed to create new cards.  Just think, that card that you used one year at Target, could come back as a gift card from Lowes this year or as the hotel room card key when you go on your next vacation.

Mail your outdated cards to Earthworks system, LLC; 33200 Bainbridge Road, Suite E, Solon OH 44139. They are not interested in your old credit cards and you can cut up your cards into pieces prior to mailing if you are concerned about identity theft.

If you have a green tip or a site to recommend, drop me a line at
Barbara.harbison@njdmava.state.nj.us.


Calendar


Vietnam traveling wall coming to Cherry Hill, N.J., in April

“The Wall That Heals”, a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will bring the message of The Wall to Cherry Hill, N.J., from April 16-19. The exhibition features the dramatic replica – stretching nearly 250 feet in total length – as well as an Information Center and traveling museum displaying memorabilia left at The Wall in Washington, D.C.

Local sponsors and volunteers are sought to help with this worthwhile and historical event. Sponsorship and Volunteer forms can be filled out online by going to www.alch372.com. Alternatively you can e-mail squinn9807@aol.com , call 856-665-3889 to have a form sent to you or stop by American Legion Post 372 located at 1532 Martin Ave, Cherry Hill (behind Cherry Hill West High School).


Schools, Training


254th Regiment provides class schedule for 2009 training year

The following courses will be conducted by the 254th Regiment, New Jersey Army National Guard, at Sea Girt and Fort Dix during training year 2009.

INACTIVE DUTY TRAINING COURSES (IDT):

  • The Army Basic Instructor Training Course:  April 4-June 13, 2009
  • Small Group Instructor Course: July 11-Sept. 19, 2009 (must complete Army Basic Instructor Course first)
  • Pre WARRIOR Leadership Courses (3 weekends per class):  April 4-June 14, 2009; and July 11-Sept. 20, 2009
  • Officer Candidate School: Phase 0 Class 53 begins March 7, 2009
  • Officer Candidate School: Phase 2 Class 53 Aug. 1, 2009-June 14, 2010
  • Company Level Command Team Course (for new Commanders and their 1SGs): Sept. 19-20, 2009

ACTIVE DUTY TRAINING COURSES

  • 13F10 MOS-T Fire Support Specialist (8 days): March 14-21, 2009 
  • 11B10 MOS-T Infantryman (15 days): May 9-23, 2009 
  • 11B2/3/4 (T) Infantryman Transition (15 days, E5 and above): May 9-23, 2009
  • 11B40 Advanced NCO Course (ANCOC) Phase II (15 days) Fort Dix: Possibly in Sep09.
  • 68W10 Medic Sustainment (10 days): July 13-22, 2009.
  • Combat Lifesaver Course, various locations: Send unit request to Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Cosmanic at  Stephen.r.cosmanic@us.army.mil for scheduling.

Questions should be addressed to 1st Sgt. Gary Davidson, 732-974-6312/5900 or gary.davidson@nj.ngbarmy.mil. ATRRS School Code: 1004.


Retirements, Reunions


Gala reunion planned for former, current 170th/108th personnel

Come one, come all – active or retired – for a fun-filled weekend with trips down memory lane. A Gala Reunion is being planned for all of the faces of the 170th and 108th Air Refueling Wing on April 25, 2009. 

The elegant semi-formal will be held at the Doubletree Hotel and Executive Meeting Center, 200 Atrium Drive, Somerset, NJ, 6-11 p.m.

A deposit of $50 is required per person as soon as possible.  Hotel reservation, rates and activities will be announced at a later date.

For more information, contact Gloria A. Smith, 732-752-8263/732-991-9102 or Phyllis Jackson-Rackley, 908-451-7147/908-730-6377.

Say Again?


Trumpeteer2.wmfDMAVA emergency hotline is up and running

Winter is just around the corner and with that comes weather that can make driving to work difficult. There may be times that the department may have a delayed opening or even closures. If there is a question, call the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Emergency Hotline:

1-866-232-5798

You will then hear the following message:

You have reached the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Emergency Information Number. Please list to the following menu choices and select an appropriate option:

  • State employees – press 1
  • Federal employees – press 2
  • National Guard employees – press 3

Select the appropriate selection and you will hear a pre-recorded message providing further instructions or details regarding the emergency and/or inclement weather reporting instructions.


Free CD for downloading as gift to military, veterans

Isaac Hayes, Alan Jackson, Roy Orbison, Daughtry, Good Charlotte, Joe Perry and eight more artists and groups have come together and each donated one song to the CD, “For the Troops II.”

John Ondrasik of Five For Fighting, led the project for the second time. The original CD, “For the Troops,” was downloaded more than 350,000 times and 200,000 hard copies were distributed to service members and veterans.

The new CD, which can be downloaded for free at www.aafes.com, will continue to be available until mid-March. Those with valid military identification will be eligible to download the CD.

To get a complete list of the artists and songs on the CD, go to www.cdforthetroops.com.


Military OneSource offers free tax preparation, filing

Just in time for tax season – Military OneSource is offering free preparation and filing of both your Federal and State taxes.

This program is available for all DoD components, Guard and Reserves and their families.

To get started or find out more information on this valuable benefit, call 1-800-342-9647 or visit www.militaryonesource.com.

Don’t let a tax preparer take even more of your money with tax preparation fees. Maximize your refund or minimize your tax bill by visiting Military OneSource today!


Take the next step, become a Warrant Officer

Are you 18-33 years old? Any MOS. Make the next step in your Army career a Warrant Officer.  You may qualify to become a 153A Rotary Wing Pilot.

First, review the prerequisites for the MOS on the Web site: www.usarec.army.mil/hq/warrant/index.htm  Next, call Warrant Officer Mercedes Devarie, the new Warrant Officer Strength Manager for more information. 

The New Jersey Army National Guard is looking for individuals to fill the following MOSs: 153A, 152B, 153D, 155E, 210A, 250N, 251A, 254A, 350F, 351M, 420A, 882A, 890A, 914A, 915A, 919A, 920A, 920B, 922A.   

Contact WO Devarie at 609-562-0721 or mercedes.devarie@us.army.mil


Earn up to $8,500 for officer accessions in G-RAP

From the desk of Warrant Officer Misty L. DiGangi, AMEDD Recruiter

Guard Recruiting Assistants can earn additional income assisting ARNG recruiting efforts by identifying well-qualified men and women for service in the ARNG. RAs may earn up to $8,500 for each select Officer Candidate who accepts a Commission.

As a G-RAP RA you will cultivate quality Officer Candidates from within your spheres of influence and work with an Officer Strength Manager (OSM) or Warrant Officer Strength Manager (WOSM) to process the Officer Candidate and move them towards accession.

The total amount of payment for an Officer Accession is determined by the ARNG’s current critical needs and the GRAP-O payment chart. There are four categories by which RAs will receive payment for Officer Accessions. RAs can earn up to $2,000 for each new recruit who enlists and reports to Basic Training or for each prior service member.

G-RAP is available to Traditional Guard members and National Guard retirees.  For more information, go to http://www.guardrecruitingassistant.com/.


Sign up for G-RAP, bring in friends and make $$$$

Sign up today and earn up to $2,000 for each new recruit who enlists into the National Guard and reports to basic training.

The Guard Recruiting Assistance Program (G-RAP) is a contracted program designed for individuals who voluntarily apply to become eligible to serve as a part-time Recruiting Assistant (RA).

G-RAP is available to Traditional Guard members and National Guard retirees.  This opportunity is open to both Army and Air Guard members.  For more information, go to http://www.guardrecruitingassistant.com/.


Information for N.J. state employees

State has new time sheets for employees

From the desk of Cindy L. Leese, Human Resources manager

For state employees, effective pay period 4 there are new timesheets that are on DMAVA Net under Human Resources.  Click on the timesheet that pertains to you – manager, standard or shift differential – go to Save As, name it as your timesheet and save it to your Z drive.

These are the only timesheets that should be used from this point.   If you submit an old timesheet it will be returned back to you.

These timesheets are not to be used by the three memorial homes.

If you have any questions, please call Cindy Leese at 609-530-7056 or Irene Sokolowski at 609-530-7038.


Direct Deposit – A safe and reliable way to receive your pay

From the desk of Lisa Dandrea, Human Resources, Personnel Assistant

This is just a reminder that the convenience of direct deposit is offered to all state employees. It is encouraged that our employees consider taking advantage of direct deposit with all that it has to offer.

Enrolling into direct deposit means having your money directly deposited into your checking or savings account. You’re going to be on vacation on pay day? Tired of waiting for Postal Service to deliver your money? Eliminate that with direct deposit. It is a convenient and reliable way to receive your pay and know it is safe in your account, when you need it to be. And the service is free!

To get enrolled you must complete the "Authorization Agreement for Automatic Payroll Deposits” form, and turn it in to your Human Resources Payroll Department. A copy of this form is available on DMAVAnet under Human Resources – Helpful Forms. Just print, fill out and send to Human Resources. Please allow up to three pay periods (six weeks) for your direct deposit to take effect.

To request a form or more information, contact Lisa Dandrea in Human Resources at 609-530-6888.


State employees who move, marry must contact HR department

From the desk of Lisa Dandrea, Human Resources, Personnel Assistant

If you are a state employee, working for DMAVA, Vets Haven, and the Cemetery, and you have an address change and/or a name change, it is extremely important that you contact Lisa Dandrea in the Human Resources Office. There have been a lot of issues with tax W2s, pension statements and pay checks being returned to our office, as well as some employees not receiving their new health cards, all due to incorrect addresses. Your address change is not automatic and it is not limited to completing a new W4. There are specific forms for employees to complete that updates their new information statewide. Your change of address or name affects your paycheck, your pension statements, W2s, loans, any information sent out by your health care provider, promotional announcements from Dept. of Personnel, etc. If you have had an address/name change and have not updated your information, please make sure you contact Lisa Dandrea in HRD-ESB at 609-530-6888 or e-mail Lisa.Dandrea@njdmava.state.nj.us.


Discounts offered for State employees

Are you a state employee looking to save a few $$$?

Visit www.state.nj.us/personnel/discounts/index.htm and you can find a number of businesses who offer discounts to New Jersey state employees.  From amusement parks to fitness to computer to phones and lots of other discounts between, you will find many ways to save money. For more information, please contact Cindy Leese at cindy.leese@njdmava.state.nj.us or call 609-530-7056.


family on the porch.JPGFor the Families

Youth Camp applications now online

From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator

Youth Camp 2009 is on the calendar for July 19-25 at Sea Girt. Applications for 2009 N.J. National Guard Youth Camp are now online. The applications have changed, so read carefully when choosing and filling out your application. You can find the three applications in blue at the bottom of the NJNG Family Programs Web site at http://www.state.nj.us/military/familysupport/youth_camp.html. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Amanda Balas at 609-530-6836 or amanda.balas@us.army.mil.


Join the online Guard Family

From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family Assistance Specialist

An invitation is extended to join the online Guard Family Portal community!  Our goal is to make this website your "one-stop shop" for everything Guard!  Here is the link to join:

The website will provide up-to-date, relevant and state-specific content, including announcements, news, events, discussion forums, documents, surveys and reports.

In addition, you can learn about Family Readiness, Program Services and Plans & Operations, take on-line training, and the site keeps you informed and involved about your benefits as a serving family.  FRG Leaders and volunteers are strongly encouraged to enroll on the site and log in your volunteer hours.


Additional dental cleaning allowed during pregnancy by Tricare

The TRICARE Management Activity announced an enhancement to maternity dental benefit through United Concordia. An additional cleaning in a 12-month period will now be allowed at no additional cost for all pregnant TRICARE Dental Program enrollees. The additional cleaning is in response to research indicating there is an increase risk of dental disease during pregnancy.  For more information about dental health during pregnancy, go to: http://www.ada.org/public/topics/pregnancy_faq.asp.


No-cost prescription savings plan available

From the desk of Marie Durling, Family Programs Specialist

Here is a no cost to you prescription savings program.  This program offers discounts on all prescription medications at your local pharmacy.  You do not have to do anything special to qualify.  There is no income, residence, employment, age, citizenship or any other qualifications to meet.  Not even an application to fill out.  The Family State Programs Office at Joint Force Headquarters, Fort Dix has the group ID cards.  Call Marie Durling at 609-530-6884 and one will be mailed to you.  For more information check out www.mediservrx.com.


During the Deployment Information


Our Military Kids grant program recently expanded

Our Military Kids, a program that provides grants to children of deployed and severely injured Reserve and National Guard military, has expanded its program eligibility in two ways.  The program which had been open to children in grades K - 12, will now be offered to 3- and 4-year-olds. Additionally, children may be eligible for a second grant award if their parent is deployed for 365 days or more.  Our Military Kids grants cover six months of an activity to a maximum award of $500. Children who have a parent deployed for 365 days or more will now be eligible for a second grant award provided the parent has 60 days remaining on the deployment orders and six months has elapsed since the first grant award. Our Military Kids provides grants for sports, fine arts and tutoring so that children may start or continue participation in an activity while the parent is away or recovering from serious injury. To date, over 3,000 children have received awards from Our Military Kids.

To find more information on the program or to download an application, go to www.ourmilitarykids.org.


Reunion briefing schedule announced for family members

From the desk of Marie Durling, Family Programs Specialist

We know it is early to mention reunion briefs but we wanted to get the dates and locations out now so you can make plans to attend the one most convenient for you.  All briefs are the same - they are not unit specific.  Attend the one that is most convenient for you.

Soldier & Family Reunion Brief Schedule

Date                             Armory                         Time

Feb. 21, 2009              Morristown                   9:30 a.m.

March 21, 2009           Port Murray                  9:30 a.m.

March 22, 2009           Lawrenceville               1 p.m.

April 4, 2009               Jersey City                   9:30 a.m.

April 5, 2009                Vineland                       1 p.m.

April 16, 2009              Cherry Hill                    6:30 p.m.

April 19, 2009              Toms River                   1 p.m.

April 27, 2009              Woodbridge                 6:30 p.m.

May 6, 2009                 Somerset                     6:30 p.m.

May 11, 2009               Mount Holly                  6:30 p.m.

May 16, 2009               Woodbury                    9:30 a.m.

May 21, 2009               Teaneck                       6:30 p.m.


Post Office offers boxes, discount rate to FPO/APO addresses

From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family Assistance Specialist

Now the U.S. Postal Service is making it easier for families to send care packages with a larger flat rate box and a special discount to FPO/ APO addresses. They are 50 percent larger than the current flat rate box and can be sent to any domestic address for $12.95. A special military version of the box will carry the "America Supports You" logo and can be shipped to any FPO/ APO address for $10.95. The new Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Box is "12 x 12" x 5½". For complete guidelines on mail services to military members overseas visit the USPS website at: www.usps.com/supportingourtroops/welcome.htm?from=household &page=troopsupport.


N.J. Family Readiness Council increases grants to families, businesses

The New Jersey National Guard State Family Readiness Council has increased the amounts of family and business grants up to $5,000 and $10,000, respectively.  Both are what are known as TIER I grants.  TIER II family grants are also available to New Jersey Army and Air National Guard non-deployed service members who were on State Active Duty or State Missions (e.g., hurricanes, floods, border missions) for more than 20 consecutive days.  Service members meeting these criteria are eligible to apply for a financial hardship grant up to $1,500.  Applications are available at all New Jersey Army and Air National Guard Family Assistance Centers.


Give parents a break

Child Youth Services at Fort Dix and many other active duty posts provide 16 hours per child per month of free hourly/respite child care to relieve family stress during deployment.  Respite care begins 30 days prior to deployment and ends 60 days after return.  Drop off the kids while shopping at the commissary or PX or just to get some quiet time to yourself.  For additional information, contact Cathy Spiegal at Fort Dix Outreach Services 609-562-2242.


Child care $$$$$ available for spouses of deployed military

From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator

Child care money is available for spouses of Title 10 Army National Guard activated Soldiers only.  If the spouses are employed, seeking employment (for 60 days) or going to school, they can qualify for a $100 per month per child stipend for fulltime care (licensed child care provider required).  Call the National Guard Child Care Program today to apply 1-888-642-2799 or ngccp@guardfamily.org.


FRG volunteers needed

Family Readiness Groups (FRG) play an important role during deployments.

Yet, in order to be successful, these groups rely on the support of volunteers.

FRGs are comprised of volunteers who donate their time to make sure our Soldier’s “Homefront Heroes” are supported through networking with other family members and mutually offering support to one another.

If you would like to be a volunteer or a participant please contact your local Family Assistance Center.  You can reach them by calling our toll free number 888-859-0352 and selecting the prompt of the Family Assistance Center near you.


Reserve Aid gives support to families of deployed service members

From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Fami ly Assistance Specialist

Reserve Aid is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to providing financial support to the families of Reserve Service Members called to active duty in all five branches of the Armed Forces. Reserve Aid makes unrestricted, need based grants to military families who have a Reserve service member on full-time deployment to a combat zone or homeland security position. Their goal is to alleviate the emotional and financial burdens placed on the men and women called to serve our country by supporting their families at home.  For additional information and application procedures go to: www.reserveaid.org.


N.J. licenses, registration extended for deployed troops

New Jerseyans who are on active duty military, in the National Guard or the military reserves, serving in the war on terrorism, are eligible for automatic extensions of a valid driver license, registration or inspection expiration dates. Go to www.nj.gov/mvc/ for more information.


Morris County offers program for military families

From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator

Family Service of Morris County in partnership with the Family Programs Office, New Jersey, would like to announce its Military Families Outreach Program.  Based on a community effort, the Military Families Outreach Program strives to support Morris County military personnel and their families, including extended families, pre-deployment, during deployment and post-deployment.

We realize the pressures and problems that may occur when a family member is called to duty, and we want to assist with any services that you may need to ensure quality of life. Social services, support services and mental health services are some of the resources that will be available to Morris County residents. All services offered in this program are free of charge to you and your family and are bound by the highest consideration for complete confidentiality.

For more information about the Military Services Outreach Program, contact Valerie Hart, Military Families Outreach Case Manager at vhart@fsmc.org or call 973-538-5260, extension 326.  You can also contact Tammy Rosenthal, Director of child and Adolescent Services at trosenthal@fsmc.org or 973-538-5260.  We are privileged to work with you who have given so much for your country!


Travel Help, Ideas


Disney offers Armed Forces Salute with great offers, passes

endless road.JPGFor those military families planning a trip to a Disney Resort this year, you picked a good time to go – Disney Parks are offering active and retired U.S. military personnel, including active and retired members of the U.S. Coast Guard and activated members of the National Guard and Reserves, a complimentary, multi-day admission into their U.S. theme parks.

The “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” also includes great rates at select Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort hotels and additional special ticket prices for family members and friends.

Visit www.disneyworld.com/military for information on the offerings.  You can find detailed information on all the offers at http://wdwibc1.wdpromedia.com/ibc_wdw_v0101/media/en_US/
content/nextGen/resorts/MilitaryOffer2009WDPRO2.pdf

Visit your local ITT office for details and to book or get your tickets; there is one located at the Fort Dix/McGuire PX/BX.

When visiting Disney World, don’t forget the resort hotel, Shades of Green which is available only to service members and their families, retirees and civilian employees of the Defense Department. Find out more at www.shadesofgreen.org.


Guard history lessons for family at Sea Girt museum

Looking for a local place to take the family for a history lesson?  Try the National Guard Museum of New Jersey in Sea Girt.

The museum had a recent face-lift and upgraded its exhibits which tell the story of the New Jersey Army and Air National Guards and the Naval Militia of New Jersey from the Revolutionary war to the Global War on Terrorism.

The four gallery rooms feature diaries, uniforms, vehicles, weapons and even a Civil War submarine built in 1865.

Open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday and the same hours on the first and second weekends of the month, admission to the museum is free of charge, but a donation is requested. Groups who would like to make arrangements for tours should call 732-974-5966.


Armed Forces Vacation Club offers affordable lodging

The Armed Forces Vacation Club is a "space available" program offering Department of Defense affiliated personnel affordable condominium vacations at over 3,500 resorts around the world. Visit www.afvclub.com/ for more information.


Scholarship, Education News


SSG Frank T. Carvill scholarship for Jersey Guard kids

Friends and family of Staff Sgt. Frank T. Carvill, a member of the New Jersey Army National Guard who was killed while serving in Iraq in Operation Iraqi Freedom, have established scholarship in his name.  According to those close to him, Carvill was a strong advocate of education and he felt it was important to help his fellow Guardsmen and their families.

The SSG Frank T. Carvill Memorial Scholarship Award is designed to honor and remember Frank Carvill. Applications are available by contacting Peggy Carvill-Liguori at drpeg639@aol.com.  Deadline for submitting applications is April 30, 2009.

These are the eligibility requirements for the scholarships –

  •    The applicant’s parent or guardian must be a member of the New Jersey National Guard.
  •    The applicant may apply for the scholarship while attending high school or presently be in or accepted by a college/vocational program as a full-time student.
  •    The applicant must volunteer time to the community.
  •   The applicant must have a minimum GPA of 2.75
  •   The applicant must compose an essay stating:
  •    How volunteerism affects your life
  •    How the U.S. military has influenced your life

N.J. Vietnam Vets Memorial Foundation announces 2009 scholarships

Graduating seniors have until April 17, 2009, to submit their applications and essays to qualify for one of two scholarships offered by the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation.  The scholarships, each in the amount of $2,500, will be awarded to high school seniors from New Jersey who plan to further their education either at a college or university or trade/technical school. 

Winners will be notified in early May and will be awarded the scholarship on Monday, May 25, during the Memorial Day Ceremony held at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial. 

In addition to the scholarship application and proof of acceptance to a college or trade school, all applicants must submit an essay about his/her visit to the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial, located off the Garden State Parkway at exit 116 in Holmdel. 

To assist students in writing their essays, the Foundation offers free, veteran-led guided tours of the Memorial.  Beginning February 7, and continuing through April 11, these tours are held every Saturday at 11 a.m. and at 1 p.m.  These tours are also available to the members of the general public who would like to learn more about the Memorial.  Tours are approximately 45 minutes in length.

The deadline for application and essay submissions is 5 p.m. on April 17, 2009.  Applications may be mailed or delivered to the NJVVM Scholarship Program, 1 Memorial Lane, P.O. Box 648, Holmdel, NJ 07733. 

For a scholarship application form or more information about the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation, please visit www.njvvmf.org or call (732) 335-0033.


Education news for NJARNG

Education Services Brochure Booklet (ESB2)

Access the New Jersey Army National Guard's ESB2 at www.nj.gov/military/education.  The ESB2 is a comprehensive guide with links and shortcuts to civilian education benefits available to New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers.

G.I. Bill Notice of Basic Eligibility

New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers can print their Eligibility of Mobilized Soldier notification letter for CH 1607 as well as Notice Of Basic Eligibility for CH 1606 at For Army National Guard Education Benefits, please use  https://www.nationalguardbenefits.com; click on G.I. Bill Home Page.


American Legion offers scholarships, booklet on their Web site

The American Legion has scholarship information on their Web site – www.legion.org – including the 152-page booklet, Need a Lift, which is a complete financial aid reference guide for veterans, family members and the American Legion family.  When you get on the site, click on “Scholarship Information” in the “Useful Links” block.


Association News


Join the Enlisted Association, make your voice heard

Now is the time to join the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of New Jersey.

The Association started out in 1965 as a chapter of the Active Army Association (NCOA) but membership was limited to NCOs of the Army National Guard. Six years later they reorganized as the Army and Air National Guard Noncommissioned Officer’s Association.  In 1992, a change to their current name expanded the membership to all enlisted Soldiers and Airmen.

Benefits of joining the EANGNJ include subscriptions to the New Patriot and Enlisted Voice newsletters, eligibility to apply for six $1,000 scholarships, inexpensive term insurance, national membership with EANGUS and a voice on legislative issues.

The association holds four executive council meetings in February, May, August, and November.  They will hold their annual business in Gettysburg, Pa., on Oct. 9-11, 2009.

Drop by the Association’s Web site, www.EANG-NJ.org, and check out the page on the Annual Business meeting on Columbus Day weekend, Oct. 9-11 at the Eisenhower Conference Center Gettysburg, Pa. Check out the conference center at http://www.eisenhower.com and http://www.gettysburg.travel.

Information on the meeting, including a registration form, flyer about the Friday Night Social, package plan sheet and three tier payment flyer are all available on the site.

Join EANGNJ and help make your voice heard. EANGNJ has helped to get state tuition assistance for Guard members attending state institutions, up to 15 credits per semester with continuation through a master’s degree. Their voice on a national level has helped to get increased educational benefits, additional TRICARE benefits and eliminated increased premiums to TRICARE.

Upcoming legislative goals include reducing the retirement age to 55 and continued funding for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Membership is open to all enlisted Soldiers and Airmen, with associate memberships for officers, warrant officers, and DoD, state and federal employees.  Cost is $15 for E1-E4, $20 for E5-E7 and $25 for E8-E9.  All associate memberships are $10.  You can find a membership application at their Web site: www.eang-nj.org.


Veterans Information

VA Suicide Hotline

To ensure veterans with emotional crises have round-the-clock access to trained professionals, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has a national suicide prevention hot line for veterans. VA's hot line will be staffed by mental health professionals in Canandaigua, N.Y. They will take toll-free calls from across the country and work closely with local VA mental health providers to help callers. The toll-free hot line number is 1 (800) 273-TALK (8255).


Web site provides support to separating military members

TurboTAP (Transition Assistance Program) is an easy to use, interactive Web portal that provides life-long support to separating military service members (Active Duty, Guard and Reserve) and their families. It is a single source starting point for accessing key resources available for servicemembers transitioning out of the military at any point in their military career.  Resources include Department of Defense, Department of Labor, Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Education, Small Business Administration, the National Veterans Corporation and the National Guard Bureau.  For more information go to www.TurboTAP.org or email TAPHelp@military-inc.com.


DMAVA Veterans Outreach Campaign continues

The DMVA Veterans Outreach Campaign continues with kiosk displays at selected malls throughout New Jersey.  The schedule is as follows:

March 3*, 4, 5

Monmouth Mall

April 21*, 22, 23

Quaker Bridge Mall

May 7**

New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial

*Medal ceremonies begin at 10:30 a.m. on these dates.  The kiosk will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

**Medal Ceremony only; begins at 11 a.m.


N.J. Vietnam Veterans Memorial

N.J. Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and Vietnam Era Educational Center's upcoming events:

 =================

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

 ====================

For further information call 1-800-648-VETS or visit www.njvvmf.org.

 

 

 

Contact Us | Privacy Notice | Legal Statement | Accessibility Statement NJ.gov
NJ National Guard Family Programs Open Public Records Act
The Governor's Office The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs The Department of State The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs