The Army put its promise into practice as nearly 300 troops from the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) underwent pre-mobilization medical processing at the Fort Dix Joint Readiness Center.

Approximately 3,100 Soldiers - including a total of 2,600 from the Garden State - are set to deploy with the 50th IBCT this summer. They will be tasked with security forces and detainee operations missions in Iraq.

Conducting such processing during pre-mobilization preparations comes as a result of a policy issued earlier this year that limits Reserve Component mobilizations to no more than one year, inclusive of time spent at the mobilization station, in-theater, and at the demobilization station.

To meet this timeline, units are now required to accomplish certain tasks formerly completed at mobilization stations while still in a pre-mobilization, Reserve Component status.

This past fall, Soldiers of the 2-113th Infantry Battalion, participated in back-to-back multi-national training exercises in Albania. The New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers joined 1,100 military personnel from 23 countries participating in the Cooperative Longbow 07 (COLW 07) and Cooperative Lancer 07 (COLR 07) exercises.

Beyond assessing capabilities and interoperability, soldiers from all nations agree that many important lessons were learned and shared during both exercises.  The friendliness and openness of the soldiers in sharing information and training techniques was instrumental in the lesson exchange.

One of the key lessons learned by all was differences in the role of NCOs in various countries. "Other countries do not leverage the chain of command the same way as the U.S.," said 1st Lt. Jason Cornell, 2-113th Infantry.

Even with nearly two-dozen nations cooperating, communicating, training, and exchanging cultures, two simple messages convey the importance of this experience, and the lessons learned here. "This type of international training must be continuous," said Capt. Nicholas Calenicoff, C Company Commander, 2-113th Infantry.  "You can take the best of training from every nation and put it together," added Spc. Peter J. Ashwell, 2-113th Infantry.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Thomas Russo, who serves as the Mobility Officer for the New Jersey Army National Guard's (NJARNG) Joint Forces Headquarters-New Jersey (JFHQ-NJ) became the recipient of the Reserve Component Transportation Corps Regimental Warrant Officer of the Year award for 2006.

The prestigious award was for Thomas's service as a major player in the movement of a division worth of equipment and personnel to Iraq and back in support of the Global War on Terrorism.

His accomplishments included direct movement control support to the NJARNG, Fort Dix, Fort Monmouth, and Picatinny Arsenal. Additional support was provided to Army Reserve units stationed in New Jersey, and the Defense Movement Coordinators in New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

Russo also acted as the direct liaison with New Jersey Department of Transportation and New Jersey State Police to ensure that convoys where not interfered with, due to weapons mounted on vehicles, while traveling county and state roads.

The award he received is national in scope.  Candidates from all 54 states and territories were judged not only on their military accomplishments, but also their community service.

While no one knows what the future holds, it is safe to assume that equipment will get where it needs to be, as Russo continues to keep the NJARNG moving.

Seventeen Airmen from the 177th Fighter Wing and the 108th Air Refueling Wing visited the Vineland Veterans' Memorial Home for the Annual Holiday "Songfest" on Dec. 19.

The Wings have been visiting the Home for more than seven years.

They were joined by more than 50 fourth graders from the Seaview School in Linwood, who in the words of one vocally-challenged Airman, "Will help drown-out our voices."

Upon arrival, Airmen and 4th graders were issued candy canes and holiday greeting cards, assigned to groups and sent out to spread cheer to the residents.

Congregating in cafeterias, day rooms, as well as serenading individuals in their rooms (those residents that are bed-ridden), the carolers passed out cards and candy canes, sang holiday songs and chatted with the residents.

The Wings raised more than $1,500 in donations and pledges.  This was spent on the Vineland Home's Wish List, which included everything from greeting cards, candy canes, slipper socks, cookies, back scratchers, to men's cologne gift sets and ladies perfume gift sets; magnifying glasses, large print puzzle books, hand lotion, small photo albums, hair brushes, nail polish kits and lip balm.

Truly, big gifts come in small packages.

The National Guard of The United States

In 1903 the Federal government finally recognized the military forces of the several states.  The Dick Bill of that year and of 1908 increased Federal aid and provided for the detail of Regular Army officers as instructors.  However, it was the National Defense Act of 1916 which established the Guard as a component of the Army.  Its mission was to train and be ready for service in the United States Army in times of war and national emergency and within the State when ordered by the Governor.

That same year, 1916, while training at Sea Girt, the President called out the National Guard tar service on the Mexican Border.

New Jersey troops again were among the first to respond to the President's call with the 1st New Jersey Brigade, (consisting of the 1st, 4th and 5th N.J. Regiments), two batteries of artillery and three troops of cavalry.  An additional battery of artillery was later organized and ordered for service.

After patrolling along the border until fall, they returned to New Jersey and were mustered out of Federal service.  Although they saw no active combat service on the Mexican Border, the Guardsmen benefited greatly from the strenuous training. It was the prelude to World War I.

"Over There"

On March 25, 1917, prior to the Declaration of War against Germany, the 1^st New Jersey Brigade was called for duty guarding plants, bridges, railroads and other public works.  Later orders mobilized the remainder of the National Guard and authorized the formation of several new units.  In July 1917 orders were received to entrain for Camp McClellan, Alabama, where training in earnest for the World War commenced.

The story of the New Jersey National Guard in World War I is the story of the 29th Division (Blue and Gray).

The 29th Division was formed in October l917 from the National Guard units primarily from Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey and the District of Columbia.  The New Jersey contributions consisted of the 112th Artillery, 114th Infantry, 113th Infantry, 104^th Engineer, 119th Medical and the 102nd Cavalry.

After ten months of intensive training at Camp McClellan, the division moved to Camp Stuart, Virginia, and Camp Upton,, New York, for embarkation overseas.  Embarking in June 1918, it was shortly thereafter in the front lines in Alsace, subsequently, moving northwest of Verdun to participate in the great Mouse Argonne offensive.

On the night of October 8-9, the 113th and 114th Infantry regiments moved across the Meuse River and launched their attack.  They remained in the lines until October 27.

Reduced in strength by more than one-third, having faced forces from at least six enemy divisions, having advanced more than seven kilometers and captured 2,500 prisoners, the Blue and Gray Division was relieved and sent to a rest area.  The morning of November 11, Armistice Day, found the Division on the march to join the Second American Army for its planned attack on Metz.

Upon termination of hostilities the division moved to a training area and later embarked for its home stations.  The New Jersey units were demobilized at Camp Dix, New Jersey during May and June 1919.

The Northern New Jersey Chapter 1502 of the Association of the United States Army and the 117^th Cavalry Association will host Kevin M. Hymel author of the book; Patton's Photographs: War As He Saw It, at a joint meeting of the two organizations on Feb. 1, 7:30 p.m. at the Heritage Room, Westfield New Jersey National Guard Armory, 500 Rahway Avenue, Westfield.

Kevin M. Hymel, an associate editor for Army Magazine and the research director for WWII History and Military Heritage Magazines, discovered while researching an article on General George S. Patton, photo albums produced by Patton during World War II of the battlefields of North Africa, Sicily and continental Europe.

LIMITED SEATING AVAILABLE!

Please call Col Plechner at 732-549-1535 to reserve your seat by Jan. 25.

Here are the 254th Regiment courses that are on the calendar.  When using ATRRS, the school code is 1004.

Inactive Duty Training (IDT) Courses:

The Army Instructor Training Course, (TAITC) 

April 5-June 7, 2008 - 12 openings

Basic NCO Course, (BNCOC)

April 5-Sept. 7, 2008 - 48 openings

Pre WARRIOR Leadership Course (3 weekends)

Jan. 5-6, 2008

Feb. 2-3, 2008

March 1-2, 2008

Officer Candidate School (OCS)

begins March 1, 2008

Active Duty Training (ADT) Courses:

68W Combat Medic Training Course Sustainmen

Feb. 4-13, 2008 - 32 openings

***NEW ON ATRRS, Combat Lifesaver Course (CLC-06)

Jan. 8-10, 2008

Jan. 15-17, 2008

Jan. 22-24, 2008

Jan. 29-31, 2008

Feb. 5-7, 2008

Feb. 11-13, 2008

Feb. 19-21, 2008

13D10 MOS-T FA Tactical Data System Specialist

March 15-29, 2008 - 12 openings

13F10 MOS-T Fire Support Specialist

March 15-22, 2008 - 18 openings

31B10 MOS-T Military Police

March 8-22, 2008 - 20 openings

88M10 MOS-T Motor Transport Operator

March 15-29, 2008 - 16 openings

Company Level Command Team Course (for new Commanders & their 1SGs)

April 12-13, 2008 - 60 openings

11B10 MOS-T Infantryman

May 3-17, 2008 - 34 openings

11B40 Infantryman ANCOC

June 7-21, 2008 - 31 openings

If you have any questions, contact Master Sgt. Gary Davidson, 732-974-5912 or gary.davidson@nj.ngb.army.mil.  

The Air Force began an official partnership with the Council of Better Business Bureaus (BBB) recently. The partnership encourages Airmen and their families to use the bureau's free programs, services and materials.

The BBB Air Force Line website aimed specifically at its Air Force audience. The site includes BBB products and services such as reliability reports on businesses and charities, consumer tips and alerts, and a link to file complaints. The site also includes news items of particular interest to military consumers. Through the website, Airmen may sign up for a monthly newsletter that contains a regular "scam alert" feature. Visit http://www.bbb.org/airforce for more information.

The John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 (P.L. 109-364), enhanced the TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) health plan.  Under this new TRS health plan, effective October 1, 2007, certain members of the Selected Reserve may qualify for health care coverage under TRS at $81 for single coverage and $253 for family coverage.  Selected Reserve members who are enrolled or eligible to enroll in a health benefit plan under chapter 89 of title 5 U.S.C. Federal Employees Health Benefit Program (FEHBP), IRR and ING Soldiers are excluded from purchasing TRS.

Soldiers currently enrolled in the three tier TRS program must have transitioned to the new program by Sept. 30, 2007.  For more information or to enroll contact your state representative listed on  http://www.tricare.mil/mybenefit, select the "benefits update" link for the Tricare Reserve Select information page.

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

The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is committed to maintaining the work environment free from all forms of violence, in accordance with State of New Jersey Executive Order No. 49 and the State of New Jersey Workplace Violence Prevention Policy Statement dated Sept. 1, 1997.  The Department is committed to maintaining a strict policy that prohibits act of violence, harassment, or intimidation in any form, including verbal, written, physical, or any conduct that may be construed detrimental to the workplace environment.  This policy addresses violent acts by employees as describes procedures and training to be followed for the prevention of, and response to, these acts. See Departmental Directive number 230.80 for more information.

The DMAVA Suggestion Program is still in effect and the Suggestion Box is located in the cafeteria on the center column wall.

You can find the suggestion form at www.nj.gov/military; click on Blank Forms. Unsigned suggestions may/or may not be answered, depending on their importance.  Unsigned suggestions, if they warrant a response, will be answered at Town Hall Meetings.  All signed suggestions will receive a response from Col. Alan Bunting, TAG-SEA.

If you have any questions regarding this program, call Renee McGuire, 609-530-6983.

The Department of Defense nomination season for the 2008 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award will close Jan. 21.

The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award is the U.S. government's highest recognition given to outstanding employers.

National Guard and Reserve members and their families are eligible and encouraged to nominate employers who have gone above and beyond in their support of military employees.  Nominations will be accepted at www.esgr.mil until Jan. 21. 

For questions regarding the nomination process, please contact New Jersey ESGR at 609-562-0156.

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.

Co B/250th BSB (Bordentown) is now serviced by the Lawrenceville FAC at (609) 671-6681
Co D/250th BSB is now serviced by the Jersey City FAC at (201) 915-3589
Co E/250th BSB (Vineland) is now serviced by the Woodbury FAC  (856) 251-6893
Troop C/5-117 RSTA is now serviced by the Woodbury FAC at (856) 251-6893

The Pomona Family Assistance Center will continue to have responsibility for the families from units assigned to the following armories: Atlantic City, Cape May Court House, Hammonton and Tuckerton.

From the desk of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, Family 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: http://www.reserveaid.org

Global Internet Mail is a personal e-mail program available to all servicemembers that can be used from any computer with Internet access, including government systems. GI mail is also available to spouses who are registered in the Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System.  While official government e-mail accounts are the most secure form of e-mail communication, messages sent between GI Mail accounts are more secure than those sent between public e-mail accounts.  For more information about GI Mail and how to get an account, visit www.gimail.af.mil/, or read the Air Force Print News story at www.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123075003

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

Need help?  Dial 2-1-1:   You can find everything from basic needs like food, housing and healthcare to legal services, drug treatment, job assistance, childcare, mental health services, transportation, financial assistance, municipal programs and much more.  The 2-1-1service is a new statewide number for New Jersey residents. It connects people with the resources they need to solve problems.  It is free and confidential.

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

Here is a friendly reminder to all Family Readiness Group volunteers. First of all we would like to thank each and every one of you personally for your time and dedication to our troops and their families.  If you have not already done so we would appreciate it if you would take a few minutes each day, week or month to go into the Volunteer Tracking System on guardfamily.org and insert the precious time that you have committed to making our Family Program the best!  This is a way for the Family Program and the senior leadership to see who is helping out in their Guard communities and to award those who go the extra mile.

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

The 253rd Transportation Company's Family Readiness Group has their next meeting scheduled for Jan. 30, 2008, at 7 p.m.  The meeting will be held at the Cape May Court House Armory.

MyArmyBenefits at http://myarmybenefits.us.army.mil is the official Army benefits resource for active-duty, Guard and reserve Soldiers, family members and retirees. Active-duty Soldiers with AKO accounts can access personalized reports on the survivor, disability, and retirement benefits through MyArmyBenefits.

Family Programs has several contractor positions open. 

Family Assistant Center Coordinator - 2 openings

Locations:  Jersey City and Morristown 

General Duties:  Serve as liaison between NJNG members, family members, the local community and the State Family Programs Director.  Provide assistance to family members of deployed service members to include referral service, resource assistance/management, Family Readiness Group training and moral support .  Must also be able to develop working relationships with state and local agencies, military, government and social services agencies, business and civic organizations that are willing to offer assistance and provide services in support of National Guard members and their families.

Family Readiness Assistant - 1 opening

Location: Joint Force Headquarters, Ft. Dix

General Duties:  Assist the State Family Programs Director in developing and maintaining Family Readiness Groups (FRG) throughout NJ.  Train FRG committee members on overall conduct to include regulatory guidelines, limitations, duties and responsibilities.  Serve as a liaison between Rear Detachments, military points of contact and volunteers.

Resumes should be submitted no later than Dec. 28 to:

NJ Army National Guard

JFHQ-NJ,  Attn:  Family Programs, CPT Glatz

3650 Saylor's Pond Road

Fort Dix, NJ  08640

For more information call Capt. Amy Glatz, State Family Programs Director at 609-562-0668.

From the desk of Amanda Balas, State Youth Coordinator

Operation Military Kids project in New Jersey is sponsoring a photo contest.  The theme is "Families in the Military." Any youth of a military family in any branch of the service, including active duty, National Guard and Reserves is eligible to enter. 

The age categories for entries are grades 2-5, grades 6-8 and grades 9-12.  Photos can be black and white or color and can be in digital or 35mm format.

Photos must be taken by the youth and should capture a unique moment or setting their family life or in their community that means something special to them.  They will be judged on originality and creativity.  First and second places will be awarded in each age category.

Contact Amanda Balas, N.J. National Guard State Youth Coordinator, for entry forms and more information at 609-562-0742 or Amanda.balas@us.army.mil. Deadline for submissions is Jan. 14, 2008.

The Army Information Line (1-800-833-6622) is designed to help all Soldiers and their Family members whether they are deployed; stationed stateside or overseas; are brand new to the Army; or are 30 year veterans.

In addition to The Army Information Line, Army Well-Being's Army Families Online Web site www.ArmyFamiliesOnline.org recently welcomed its 2-millionth visitor this year.

The Army Information Line also celebrates its 25-year existence of providing information and referral services to those Soldiers and Family members.

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

Our Military Kids (OMK) provides tangible support to the children of deployed and severely injured National Guard and Military Reserve personnel through grants for enrichment activities and tutoring that nurture and sustain the children during the time a parent is away in service to our country. OMK grants are made to honor the sacrifices military parents make and to ensure that the children have access to activities and support that help the children better cope with challenges arising during a parent's deployment or injury recovery. For additional information go to www.ourmilitarykids.org

The New Jersey National Guard State Family Readiness Council has expanded its Family Grants Program to include an additional grant.  There are now two levels of Family Grants; TIER I is the $2,500 grant that has been in place for the past couple of years.  The TIER II opens family grants to New Jersey Army and Air National Guard non-deployed service members who were on State Active Duty or State Missions (e.g., hurricanes, floods, border missions) for more than 20 consecutive days.  Service members meeting these criteria are eligible to apply for a financial hardship grant up to $1,500.  Applications are available at all New Jersey Army and Air National Guard Family Assistance Centers.

The Deployed Military Spouses Assistance Program provides direct assistance and referrals to existing programs for spouses of deployed military personnel (active duty, reserve and National Guard) who face unusual financial and emotional stress as a result of the deployments. 

Applicants should contact Fawn Mutschler at 609-543-6200 ext. 325 or wocmilitarygrant@ymca-bc.org to obtain an application.  In addition to the completed application form, applicants will also need to submit the following documentation: LES/paystub for applicant and spouse; statement of Financial Need (i.e. reason for applying and how the grant will help); bill or pricing of expenditure as well as any other supporting information the applicant feels may be helpful. Additional information can be found at: www.state.nj.us/dca/dow/depmilspouseasst.shtml

Saturday, Feb. 16 at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 18 at 1 p.m. (Presidents' Day) Izod Center

Tickets Prices: $37, $24; Special Military Price: $15

The world famous Harlem Globetrotters return to the Izod Center with an exciting new show of basketball tricks, hilarious comedy and fun for the entire family.  Groups receive a special invitation to Globetrotter University - a youth-oriented, character education/physical fitness program presented by Harlem Globetrotter players.  In addition, there will be a brief team history, a skills demonstration, and question and answer session.  If you have any questions, please call 201-460-4370.

January 18-20 & 23-27 at the Izod Center

Ticket Prices: $27.50, $22.50, $15.00

Military Prices:  $17.50 for lower level & $12.50 for upper level

All orders must be sent via fax or email ONLY and the deadline for orders is Tuesday, January 22, 2008 @ 3pm. If you have any questions, please call201-460-4370.

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 http://www.afvclub.com/ for more information.

Now that the summer is almost over, thoughts of how to spend next summer or your next vacation week, can start to pop into your mind.  "Can we go someplace better or different, nearer or farther from home, all without breaking the bank?"

One place to consider if Florida is one of your next vacation places is Shades of Green in Orlando.  Minutes from the Disney attractions, this resort is also close to golf, dining and other Florida attractions.

Their web site, www.shadesofgreen.org can give you tours of their rooms and family suites, the local attractions and other amenities that are offered by the resort.  The rates are reasonable and will be a opportunity to visit Orlando with your family.

The Defense Commissary Agency's 2008 Scholarships for Military Children are now available in commissaries worldwide. The $1,500 scholarships are for children of active-duty and retired military, as well as children of Guard and reserve servicemembers. Applicants must be must plan to attend an accredited college or university full time in the fall of 2008.  The deadline is Feb. 20. At least one scholarship will be awarded at every commissary location with qualified candidates. Applications and further eligibility requirements are available in commissaries and online at www.commissaries.com or at www.military scholar.org.

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.

By retired Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Hughes, EANG-NJ

The Enlisted Association National Guard-New Jersey is off to a good start for 2008 as we have realigned all the committees and filled both the Executive Council and Committees with a cross section of Army and Air, uniformed and retirees, and several junior NCOs.  Everyone appears to be enthused and pledges to support the Association in all its efforts.  All we need now is for you to get on board as a member and bring your fellow soldiers and airmen with you.

We have many challenges facing us over the next few years whether it is another round of base closures via the Base Realignment Commission (BRAC), reduction in TRICARE benefits, reduction in troop strength, attempts to maintain the retirement age at 60, etc.  We need a powerful voice to put our message across to the State and Federal Legislators and this can only be accomplished through a strong membership in our State Association (EANG-NJ) and the National Association (EANGUS).

The new membership year starts on 1 January 2008 and we need your help in making our Association grow.  We encourage all enlisted soldiers and airmen to join the Association as Active Members and also welcome all officers, warrant officers, federal, and state employees to join as Associate Members.  Applications for membership can be obtained from our website www.eang-nj.org.

Are you covered by the NGANJ Group Life Insurance Program?  As a member of either the Officers or the Enlisted Association, you are entitled to enroll in your Association Life Insurance Program.  This special program provides from $5,000 to $50,000 of Life Insurance for you, "round the clock".  Premiums range from as little as $2 per month and may be payroll-deducted from your drill check.  Family coverage is also available at low rates designed for you as a member of the New Jersey Army and Air National Guard.  Think of it!!  No aviation exclusions...No hazardous duty restrictions...No war clauses.No checks to write.  Dependent coverage includes spouses and all children.  Information can be obtained by contacting retired CWO Jack Petrosilli at 609-530-6843, or retired Brig. Gen. Robert S. Dutko Sr. at 609-273-1004.  Enrollment forms can be obtained by calling retired Col. Frank L. Carlone, Program Coordinator at 732-249-8335.

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.

The National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey has put together a National Guard Veteran Retiree Oral History Program.  In the past, the NJNG has not conducted oral exit interviews of commanders, full-time personnel, and retirees to preserve history.  The museum is going to institute a volunteer program to try to catch up. If you wish to participate, contact the museum at 732-974-5966. 

The New Jersey State Building and Construction Trades Council's Helmets to Hardhats Program (NJ H2H) is designed to help transitioning military personnel, National Guardsmen and Reservists find the careers in the building and construction industry.  The program seeks to help military members find a career in one of 15 affiliated trades, such as electrical workers, carpenters and painters.

They work in cooperation with the national Helmets to Hardhats program, adding a personal component to the program's on-line services.  NJ H2H offers veterans preparation for successful application to any of New Jersey's registered apprenticeship programs in the building and construction trades. Services include career counseling, entrance test preparation and referral to supportive services.

For program registration and information, visit online at www.njbctc.org/h2h or contact at 732-499-7295 or at H2H@njbctc.org.

Vet Career Connect is a program designed to connect military service members with New Jersey employers. Vet Career Connect matches veteran's specific abilities, drives and interests with jobs requiring those specific abilities.

Participants complete a Caliper Profile, which is an on-line self assessment. They will receive an Individual Developmental Guide outlining personal motivators and areas of developmental opportunity. Participants will then have the opportunity to place the results of the Caliper Profile, their resume and military achievements onto a database which will be viewed by New Jersey-based companies who have indicated a strong interest in employing veterans.  

Vet Career Connect program is available at no cost to service members. In order to participate in this program, or if you have additional questions please email or call Barbara Foos, Project Administrator, at 609-524-1228 or bfoos@calipercorp.com. 

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

 

January 8,9, 2008	Woodbridge Center
February 5, 6, 7	Moorestown Mall
March 3*, 4, 5	Paramus Park Shopping Center
April 1, 2, 3	Voorhees Town Center
May 6*, 7, 8	Ocean County Mall

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

The kiosk will also be in place at the Wildwood Convention Center for three state conventions.

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

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

v    June 18-20, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. - VFW State Convention

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

 =================

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

Jan. 19, 1 p.m. - The U.S. Air Force in the Battle of Khe Sanh, an oral-history presentation by N.J. Vietnam Veteran, ret. Maj. Gen. Clark W. Martin, U.S. Air Force.

Feb. 2, 1 p.m. - In the Navy in Vietnam, an oral history presentation by N.J. Vietnam Veteran and Monmouth University President, ret. Vice Adm. Paul G. Gaffney II, U.S. Navy.

Mar. 1, 1 p.m. - American Vietnam Veterans Who Wouldn't Come Home, an oral-history discussion about American ex-patriots recently encountered on a trip to Thailand by Steve Lonegan, Mayor of Bogota, N.J.

Apr. 12, 1 p.m. - We Were There: Voices of African American Veterans, from World War II to the War in Iraq, a book discussion by the author, Yvonne Latty.

May 7, 11 a.m. - New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Remembrance Day Ceremony at the Memorial.

May 17, 1 p.m. - On the Road to Recovery, an oral-history discussion by NJ Vietnam-Era veteran Bishop Fred Rubin about his service tending wounded G.I.s in the Army hospital in Hawaii during the Vietnam War.

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

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

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