New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
DMAVA Highlights » 23 February 2007

Volume 6, Number 08


Contacting us is easy!

Public Affairs Office

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



Veterans' Organizations Contact Information

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

NJ Advisory Committee for Women Veterans
Mrs. Anna Hoffman
hoffmanannem@aol.com

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



Veterans Hotlines

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

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



DMAVA Highlights Archive

DMAVA Highlights Archive Page



NJ World War II Memorial

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

WWII Memorial on the web



New Jersey Freedom Loans

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

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

Or

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

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

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

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

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

Manasquan Savings Bank
732-223-4450

North Jersey Federal Credit Union
1-888-78NJFCU

Peapack-Gladstone Bank (908)
719-BANK

Pennsville National Bank
856-678-6006

PNC
1-866-PNC-4USA

Sovereign Bank
1-877-391-6365

Sun National Bank
1-800-691-7701


Quote for the Week

To live anywhere in the world today and be against equality because of race or color, is like living in Alaska and being against snow.

- William Faulkner

All of us do not have equal talent, but all of us should have an equal opportunity to develop our talents.

- John F. Kennedy

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

 

New Directory Assistance number for state offices

Effective immediately as part of the cost-saving initiatives, employees who need to use directory assistance will dial:

1-602-293-4907

Numbers such as “411,” (area code) 555-1212 or any other directory assistance number are not to be used.

This new number will be used when calling from a department land-line, cell phone or Blackberry. When calling for assistance, you will hear, “Welcome to Directory Assistance for the State of New Jersey. Cell phone users should NOT use the auto-connect feature which costs the state and additional 15 cents for each such call. State cell phone and Blackberry users are directed to add this number to their dialing directories. Another way to further cut costs when looking for telephone numbers is the Web’s phone books. Whenever possible these sites should be used as the primary source of directory assistance.

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 any state employee can be found at http://njdirect.state.nj.us/.

This new system does not apply to the two New Jersey Air National Guard facilities: the 108th ARW, McGuire Air Force Base and the 177th Fighter Wing, Air National Guard Base, Egg Harbor Township.

line

Gang Awareness Seminar presented by Family Programs

The New Jersey National Guard Family Programs and the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission invite you to come to the Gang Awareness Seminar being held on Saturday, March 10, from 2-5 p.m. at the Bordentown Armory. Briefings will be given by Lt. Ed Torres of the N.J. Juvenile Justice Commission, 1st Lt. Raymond Sackman, of Joint Forces Headquarters, Anti-Terrorism Officer and Amanda Balas, NJNG State Youth Coordinator. There will be separate briefings for parents and children, fifth grade and higher. For more information and to register, contact Amanda Balas at 609-562-0742 or amanda.balas@us.army.mil.

line

N.J. National Guard museums looking for members, volunteers

The National Guard Museum of New Jersey is looking to expand its membership. While the organization finds the hard-working staff, the dedicated volunteers and the support of the membership to be its strength, the Museum’s Board of Trustees would like to make the organization stronger. Expanding the membership and increasing the volunteer corps are crucial components to the future goals the board has set for the museum.

As New Jersey’s largest military museum, with three locations – in Sea Girt, Lawrenceville and the War Memorial Building in Trenton, along with a traveling mobile museum – its staff is known for their knowledge and expertise when someone has a question about New Jersey’s military history.

Consider becoming a member today; membership applications are available on the museum’s Web site: http://www.nj.gov/military/museum/index.html. Cost is just $10 a year. If interested in becoming a volunteer, contact the Sea Girt museum at 732-974-5966 or Lawrenceville at 609-530-6802.

line

VFW donates 3 cars to Vets Haven residents

By Robert Sauselein, superintendent, Vets Haven

Veterans Haven recently received three vehicles to be given to residents of Veterans Haven. The vehicles, a 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass, a 1990 Ford Thunderbird and a 1990 Jeep Cherokee from VFW Post 3020, located in Delran, NJ. The VFW had a mechanic go over them before they donated them to Vehicles Haven. Al Bicchi and Tom Farrell spearheaded this undertaking.

Veterans Haven residents extend their deepest thanks and appreciation to VFW Post 3020 members for their generous gift. These vehicles enable three of the current residents to seek employment beyond the range of the local public transportation system and significantly increase their chances of improving their quality of life.

line

JT2DC helps Marines prepare for deployment

By Sgt. Karl Cheney, NJARNG, JT2DC

Marine Air Group 49 (MAG 49, U. S. Marine Corps Reserve) recently conducted training at the New Jersey National Guard’s Joint Training and Training Development Center, making use of the facility’s Engagement Skills Trainer and the Urban Lane with Air soft Rifles. MAG 49 is preparing for an upcoming deployment and the JT2DC is always ready to assist units preparing for mobilization with their full spectrum of equipment and simulators. For more information on training at JT2DC, please contact: Sgt. 1st Class Darrin Turner 609-562-0525.

line

254th hosts conference, graduates combat medics

The 254th Regiment hosted the Region A Combat Arms Training Conference in Atlantic City from Feb. 20-22. Representatives from the Regional Training Institutes across Region A (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York and New Jersey) along with National Guard Bureau and proponent school representatives were scheduled to attend. The theme for this year's conference was The Army School System (TASS) transformation and the changing roles of the RTIs.

Seventeen soldiers graduated from the Combat Medic (68W) sustainment course on Feb. 14.

line

57th Troop Command basketball team dribbles on

The 57th Troop Command Renegades were edged out of their four-game winning streak by the number one team in the basketball league by a mere five points on Feb. 8.

Outstanding performances for the game were by Sgt. Thomas Patterson with 14 points and 15 rebounds and Staff Sgt. Andre Stevenson with 13 points. Stevenson also led the team in steals and blocked shots. The Renegades are currently 4-2 and ranked fourth in the league. The team was against the NCO Academy on Feb. 13 to clinch third place.

line

Black History Month

Throughout the history of our nation, African American service members have embodied the military core values for generations. In spite of adversity and limited opportunities, African Americans have played a significant role in U.S. military history over the past 300 years. From the birth of our nation to the current Global War on Terrorism, African American service members have effectively provided strength and leadership in defending freedoms of the United States.

DMAVA celebrates the fourth week of Black History Month by recognizing two prominent African American groups of service members, who have stood up to become role models for generations to follow and continue to make history everyday.

Buffalo Soldiers
African-Americans have served proudly in every great American War. In 1866, through an act of Congress, legislation was adopted to create six all African-American Army units. The units were identified as the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st Infantry regiments. The four infantry regiments were later reorganized to form the 24th and 25th Infantry regiments.

These fighting men represented the first Black professional Soldiers in a peacetime army. The recruits came from varied backgrounds including former slaves and veterans from service in the Civil War.

The nickname Buffalo Soldiers began with the Cheyenne warriors in 1867. The actual Cheyenne translation was Wild Buffalo. The nickname was given out of respect and the fierce fighting ability of the 10th Cavalry. Over time, Buffalo Soldiers became a generic term for all African American soldiers.

Tuskegee Airmen
Prior to the Tuskegee Airmen, no U.S. military pilots had been African American. African Americans were denied military leadership roles and skilled training because many believed they lacked qualifications for combat duty Civil rights organizations and the black press exerted pressure that resulted in the formation of an all African-American pursuit squadron based in Tuskegee, Ala., in 1941. They became known as the Tuskegee Airmen.

“Tuskegee Airmen” refers to all who were involved in the so-called “Tuskegee Experiment,” the Army Air Corps program to train African Americans to fly and maintain combat aircraft. The Tuskegee Airmen included pilots, navigators, bombardiers, maintenance and support staff, instructors and all the personnel who kept the planes in the air.

The Tuskegee program officially began with formation of the 99th Fighter Squadron at the Tuskegee Institute, a highly regarded university founded by Booker T. Washington, in Tuskegee, Ala. The military selected Tuskegee Institute to train pilots because of its commitment to aeronautical training. Tuskegee had the facilities, engineering and technical instructors, as well as a climate for year-round flying. As the first Civilian Pilot Training Program, students completed their instruction in May 1940. The Tuskegee program was then expanded and became the center for African-American aviation during World War II.

The Tuskegee Airmen overcame segregation and prejudice to become one of the most highly respected fighter groups of that war. They proved conclusively that African Americans could fly and maintain sophisticated combat aircraft. The Tuskegee Airmen’s achievements, together with the men and women who supported them, paved the way for full integration of the U.S. military.

On Nov. 6, 1998, President Clinton approved Public Law 105-355, which established the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site at Moton field in Tuskegee, Ala., to commemorate and interpret the heroic actions of the Tuskegee Airmen during the second world war. The new site will contain a museum and interpretive programs at the historic complex at Moton Field as well as a national center based on a public-private partnership.

line

For Your Calendar

Chance Auction at Woodbury Armory on Feb. 24

Come to the Chance Auction at the Woodbury Armory Saturday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. The event, sponsored by the Woodstown/Vineland and Woodbury Family Readiness Groups will directly benefit families of New Jersey National Guard Soldiers.

line

Change of Command Ceremony

Col. Jorge J. Martinez will assume command of the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team from Col. Frank S. Caruso on March 18, at 2 p.m. on the drill floor of the Lawrenceville Armory.

line

Pancake Breakfast to support the Troops and families

The New Jersey League of Municipalities, the National Guard State Family Readiness Council, American Legion Post 414 and the Lawrence Lions are holding a Support the Troops and Families Pancake Breakfast

It will be held on Sunday, April 15, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lawrenceville Army National Guard Armory on 151 Eggert Crossing Road, Lawrenceville, N.J.
Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for children.

For more information or tickets, contact Jack Stoffa at 609-530-6855 or Joe Lech at 609-530-7015 or John Hastings 609-530-7124.   They also need volunteers to serve and bus tables after the patrons eat.  Contact Jack or Joe for more details.

line

2007 Annual Dinner/Dance

The 1-114th Infantry Officers’ Association’s 2007 Annual Dinner/Dance will be hosted this year on board the Spirit of Philadelphia Cruise Ship on Saturday, March 17.

Tickets are $45 per person or $90 per couple; Please RSVP no later than March 7. Doors will open at 5 p.m. with dinner, dancing and socializing beginning at 7 p.m. and concluding at 10 p.m.

For more information or forms contact the 1-114th Infantry Officers’ Association at:
1-114th Infantry Officers’ Association
Commander, 1st BN (M), 114th IN
ATTN: Capt. David Hampton
658 North Evergreen Ave.
Woodbury, NJ 08096-1399

line

Upcoming ESGR Boss Lift

The New Jersey Committee for Employer Support to the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) will be conducting a Boss Lift to Jacksonville, Fla. on April 11-13.

The purpose of the Boss Lift is to provide employers with a better understanding of what their employees do when they are away from their civilian occupation for duty with their military units. Nominations for relatives, minors or assistance cannot be accepted. Commanders and Primary Staff officers should encourage Guard members to nominate employers for participation in this trip.

Nomination forms can be found at the ESGR website at www.njesgr.org

The Forms can then be submitted to:
DMAVA, NJESGR
ATTN: Hank Pierre
101 Eggert Crossing Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08640.

Additional information can be obtained from Hank Pierre at 609-530-6879.

line

Older Americans Month Expo

For those of us who have reached the age old enough to be invited to join the exclusive organization with many benefits, AARP, there is also a month for us: May, which is Older Americans Month. The Department of Personnel and Working Well New Jersey will participate in the 50 Begins Life Expo on May 5-6 at the Garden State Exhibit Center, Somerset. There will be more than 200 exhibits, seminar programs, book signings, entertainment, prize drawings and free health screenings. There will also be a 50+ job fair and volunteer area. Put this on your calendar.

line

Retirement Dinners

Retirement Dinner in honor of Col. Brian Webster

Friday, March 16


Borgata Casino & Hotel, (Salon C 2nd Floor of the Borgata)

Time: 6 p.m.

Cost $40 RSVP NLT March 12

Capt. Yvonne Mayes 609-645-6206 or Connie Cisek 609-562-0901

Checks Payable (177FW Central Fund)

Business Casual

Retirement Dinner in honor of Chief Master Sgt. John Artigliere

Saturday, March 17

McGuire AFB Club

Time: 6 p.m.

Cost $35 RSVP NLT March 9

Connie Cisek 609-562-0901, Checks Payable (Air Officers Fund)

Business Attire

Retirement Dinner In honor of Command Chief Master Sgt. Herbert E. Mimler Jr.

Saturday, April 21


Renault Winery Tuscany House, 72 N. Bremen Avenue, Egg Harbor City

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Cost $35 RSVP NLT April 16

Capt. Mays 609-645-6206 or Master Sgt. Orme 609-645-6012

Cash or Checks Payable: 177FW Chief’s Council

Mess Dress or Semi-formal

line

Honorable Mention

“The On Guard” is searching for charter Air Guard members

The On Guard – the National Guard’s bi-monthly newspaper – is searching for charter Air National Guard (ANG) members to interview for an upcoming series of articles leading up to the ANG’s 60th Birthday.

Please call Public Affairs Office at 609-530-7088 if you know of any veteran Airmen from the 1947 Air National Guard who would be willing to answer a few questions about their service.

line

ChalleNGe program looking for mentors

Think you’d like to be a mentor to a young adult in the ChalleNGe program? Make a difference in the life of someone who is turning their life around for the better. ChalleNGe provides a disciplined environment that fosters academics, leadership development, physical fitness and personal growth for unemployed youth who have ceased to attend high school. The Academy will be looking for volunteers who are willing to be a role model and help mentor a ChalleNGe cadet. Stay tuned for more information in future DMAVA Highlights.

line

NJ Bar Association offers free legal assistance program

The New Jersey Bar Association has created the Military Legal Assistance Program. This pro bono program provides assistance to New Jersey residents who have served overseas as active duty members of reserve components of the armed forces after Sept. 11, 2001.

Individuals who have been adversely affected upon their return from deployment and the program currently offers assistance to the following areas: family law, employment law and debtor-creditor law.

The Military Legal Assistance program will refer members of the military who contact the state bar association to volunteers qualified to assist them with their specific legal issues. Volunteers who accept a case through the program must agree to handle such case from inception to resolution without compensation or reimbursement for expenses.

If interested in the program, contact D. Todd Sidor, Esq., by e-mail: tsidor@njsba.com or phone: 732-937-7544.

line

Microsoft software available for Army Guardsmen

The Microsoft Home Use Program (HUP) is eligible to all Army personnel including, active duty, reserve, Guard, and civilians currently employed by the Army.
The program allows individuals to get a licensed copy of Microsoft Office desktop applications to install and use on a home computer.

The Army awarded a six – year Enterprise License Agreement (ELA) for Microsoft products on May 30, 2003. The MS ELA established by the Army is a “Volume License” agreement with Software Assurance, and as a “Volume License” owner, the Army is entitled to exercise the Home Use Program.

Army Guard members taking advantage of this offering are responsible for paying the administrative costs for obtaining the software and may use the software as desired. Guard members can only obtain one version of the software at any given time.

Go to this website for more details: https://ascp.monmouth.army.mil/scp/software/ hup.jsp

line

“Troops to Teachers” program helps service members become teachers

Troops to Teachers (www.ProudtoServeAgain.com) is administered by the Department of Defense and Department of Education and managed by the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES). The program helps eligible military personnel begin second careers as public school teachers by providing referral assistance, placement services, and - for those electing to teach at high-need schools - financial stipends and bonuses.

Members of the National Guard and Reserves with 10 or more years of service are eligible for the program, provided they commit for an additional three years.

line

2007 Freedom Award Nomination season open

The 2007 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award Nomination deadline is Feb. 28. Please visit the ESGR website at www.esgr.mil to nominate supportive employers for this award.

line

NJARNG Honor Guard Program

We Need You!

Volunteer Today!

One Day of Pay (Minimum $50)


One Retirement Point (TDG’s only)
Selfless Service and Personal Satisfaction.
Call 609-530-7090 Today To See If You Qualify.

line

Hire A Hero – new program to help find jobs

HQ Group, who currently runs the Helmets to Hardhats program, is expanding!  Hire A Hero is our newest initiative that helps transitioning military personnel, Guard members and Reservists find jobs with all industries.

Hire A Hero is a non-profit initiative that is powered by the Armed Forces Support Foundation.  To find out more about these programs, visit the following Web sites: www.hireahero.com/ or http://armedforcessupportfoundation.org/

line

Discounts offered for State employees

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

Visit www.state.nj.us/personnel/discounts/index.htm and you can find a number of businesses who offer discounts to New Jersey state employees. From amusement parks to fitness to computer to phones and lots of other discounts between, you will find many ways to save money. For more information, please contact Patty Smith at patty.smith@njdmava.state.nj.us or call 609-530-6847.

line

Free Military Handbooks on website

Military Handbooks has announced the launch of its new website and the release of its latest seven FREE handbooks for military personnel.  Military Handbooks is a small company owned and operated by former federal employees and veterans. Their offices are located in Alexandria, Va.

These free handbooks were written specifically for military members. To get your own copies of these free handbooks, simply go to their new website:

www.militaryhandbooks.com  The handbooks include:
     - 2007 U.S. Military Handbook
     - 2007 U.S. Military Retired Handbook
     - 2007 Getting Uncle Sam To Pay For Your College Degree
     - 2007 After The Military Handbook
     - 2007 Benefits For Veterans And Dependents Handbook
     - 2007 Veterans Healthcare Benefits Handbook
     - 2007 Military Children's Scholarship Handbook

line

DMAVA Hotline

The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Emergency Hotline is:

1-866-232-5798

You will hear the following message:

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

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

line

For the Families

Youth Camp Forms Available

The thirteenth Annual New Jersey National Guard Youth Camp will be held July 29 to Aug. 4 at the New Jersey National Guard Training Center, Sea Girt.

Applications are available at: www.state.nj.us/military/familysupport/youth_camp.html

Children, ages 9-13 are invited to apply. The camp fee is still $100. Campers must be children, grandchildren or legal dependents of an active or retired member of the New Jersey National Guard. A variety of volunteer positions are available.
For more information, call the Family Programs Office at (609) 562-0668.

line

TRICARE Dental Program offers drawing for children

As part of April’s “Month of the Military Child,” United Concordia is sponsoring a Web-based, random-selection drawing. Prizes will be awarded to military children of varying ages.

Children of active duty or National Guard and Reserve sponsors who are enrolled in the Tri-Care Dental Program are eligible for this drawing. To enter, simply complete the form found on the TDP Web site – www.TRICAREdentalprogram.com between March 28 and April 26 and submit it online.

One first, second and third place prize will be awarded in each of the six TRICARE regions for the four age categories.

Ages 0-4
First prize: VTech V.Smile™ Baby
Second prize: $100 U.S. Savings Bond
Third prize: $25 AAFES gift certificate

Ages 5-7
First prize: VTech Nitro Notebook™
Second prize: $100 U.S. Savings Bond
Third prize: $25 AAFES gift certificate

Ages 8-12 and Ages 13-17
First prize: iPod® Shuffle™
Second prize: $100 U.S. Savings Bond
Third prize: $25 AAFES gift certificate

Only one entry per child is permitted; winners will be announced on the TDP Web site on May 10, 2007.

line

Deployed Military Spouses Assistance Program Award

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

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

line

ACS at Fort Dix offers programs to Soldiers and family members

The Army Community Service (ACS) office at Fort Dix has several programs to support the Soldier and his/her family during mobilization and deployment.  Their number is (609) 562-2767 or (800) 877-2380 and they are located in Building 5201 at Maryland Ave and 8th Street.  Some of the programs available are:

Army Emergency Relief: Provides emergency financial assistance to active duty military personnel, retirees, National Guard and Reserve Component on active duty for over 30 consecutive days and their family members (with ID card and power of attorney).

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP): Entitles member to additional benefits through TRICARE's Extended Care Health Option (ECHO) Program.  Provides information, referrals, crisis intervention, community support and assistance to meet individual needs.

Family Advocacy Program: Provides for the identification, reporting, prevention, and treatment of child abuse and domestic violence.

Employment Readiness Program: Offers information and referral for employment, education (resume writing and interviewing), volunteer and training opportunities.

line

Free SAT/ACT Offer Extended

A group of NFL, NFL Europe, AFL, and CFL football players have announced they are extending their sponsorship of the SAT/ACT training to all military families.

The sponsorship allows any military person (active, Guard, reserve, or retired) to request as many programs as they need for the students in their lives.  There is a secure website to confirm a person’s military status before directing the user to the software order site.

Logon to:: Click Here

Programs are shipped to domestic U.S. addresses and APO addresses. The sponsorship covers the purchase price of $199 and the family pays only the shipping and handling of $9.95.

line

Family Readiness Council offers Tier I and II grants

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

line

Scholarship, Education News

Bill Extends Education Eligibility

A bill which extends eligibility for higher education tuition assistance to certain former members of New Jersey National Guard and increases the number of tuition-free credits available to National Guard members and their dependents was signed into law by Governor Jon. S. Corzine on Jan. 24.

The legislation would allow National Guard members who are called into active duty to utilize state tuition assistance credits after their enlistment expires.

Under the old law, active members of the New Jersey National Guard may receive up to 15 credits per semester tuition free from public institutions of higher education in the State. Similarly, the child or surviving spouse of a National Guard member killed in the performance of his duties may also receive this benefit.

This bill, A-2542, amended the law to extend eligibility for this higher education tuition benefit to members of the New Jersey National Guard whose use of the free tuition benefit is interrupted by a deployment to active duty. The change would permit these soldiers to receive their earned educational benefits should their enlistment expire, or should they be medically discharged, prior to completing their studies.

The new law will also increase the number of credits eligible for funding under this program from 15 to 16 per semester.

line

NJ Vietnam Memorial Foundation offers scholarships

Two $2,500 scholarships will be awarded by the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation. Information about the scholarships, including application form, can be found at www.njvvmf.org. Applications must be received at the foundation office by 5 p.m. April 20. Applications received after the deadline will not be accepted. Recipients will be notified prior to the award ceremony on May 28.

line

MOAA offers scholarships

The Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) has a scholarship program for the children of MOAA members as well as the children of active duty, retired, Reserve and National Guard enlisted personnel. The application period for the 2007-2008 school year deadline is March 1. For more information visit www.moaa.org, and click the Educational Aid button.

line

Defense Commissary Agency offers scholarships

The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) announced last week that the application process for its Scholarships for Military Children program has now begun for 2007. Applications for the $1,500 scholarships are available at 264 commissaries worldwide, or can be downloaded through links at http://www.commissaries.com/, http://www.militaryscholar.org/, or http://www.dodea.edu/.

The program is open to unmarried children under the age of 21 (23 if enrolled in school) of military active-duty, Reserve, Guard and retired personnel. Eligibility will be determined using the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System database. Applicants should ensure that they, as well as their sponsor, are enrolled in the DEERS database and have a current ID card.

The applicant must be planning to attend, or already attending, an accredited college, or university full-time in the fall term of 2007, or enrolled in a program of studies designed to transfer directly into a four-year program. Applications for 2007, which includes an essay on "how and why" the applicant would change an historical event, must be turned in at a commissary by close of business on February 21, 2007. At least one $1,500 scholarship will be awarded at every commissary location with qualified applicants.

line

Colleges

Grantham University scholarships: Grantham University offers a scholarship program to severely injured service members and their spouses and adult children.  Go to www.grantham.edu for more information.  They also have scholarship programs for military veterans, service members, and family members.

Widener University CARES Scholarship: Widener University, Chester, Pa., has a full scholarship program for children of Global War on Terrorism service members who were killed in action.  Contact the Office of Admissions at 610-499-4126 for more information.

line

Scholarship information on BBB Military Line

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

For information to help military families avoid financial pitfalls, visit: http://military.bbb.org

line

Position Vacancies

Position vacancy for officer in Albania

There is a position open for a Bilateral Affairs Officer in Tirana, Albania in association with the State Partnership Program. The position is a tour of extended active duty for one year unaccompanied or two-year accompanied (spouse only, no children), with an estimated start date of June 1, 2007. The grade required for the position is captain or mid-grade major; the branch is immaterial.

Along with assignment are many incentives including diplomatic status and embassy privileges, individual housing provided in country, use of embassy VIP badges/privileges available, member of ambassador’s Country Team and high level and very visible assignment working with the U.S. ambassador, NATO commander, and other organizations in country.

Interested individuals should contact Maj. Judie Marranco at 609-530-7079 for further details.

line

Veterans Information

DMAVA Veterans Outreach Campaign continues.

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

Feb. 28, Mar. 1-2 Hamilton Mall
March 14*, 15, 16 Paramus park Shopping Center
April 4-6 Cherry Hill Mall
May 16, 17*, 18 Ocean County Mall
*Medal ceremonies begin at 10:30 a.m. on these dates.

The kiosk will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the identified dates.

line

Sports and Entertainment

NJNG is looking for runners

The New Jersey National Guard is looking for a few good runners to represent the state in the 2007 National Guard Marathon in Lincoln, Neb., on May 6.

Each year hundreds of National Guardsmen from around the nation compete in the Marathon.  Qualifying times to attend the race (fully funded TDY) are: four hours for men under 40; 4:15 for men 40 and over; and 4:30 for women.  The qualifying time must have been accomplished within the last 18 months.  The top runners in Lincoln are selected for the National Guard Running Team and compete in races across the nation. Interested Guardsmen should contact Maj. Arnstein at 609-562-3239.

line

Nutter Run beneficiary is Guard daughter, granddaughter

Please join the 2007 Nutter Run at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt on May 19. The run starts at 10 a.m. This year’s beneficiary is Caitlyn McGuire.
Caitlyn is the daughter of New Jersey Army National Guardsman, Spc. Robert McGuire and the granddaughter of another New Jersey National Guardsman; Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mickey McGuire.

The run will also feature live music, food, giveaways, raffles, prizes, games for children and much more. To see the flyer for the event, visit www.nutterrun.com.

If you can't participate in the run/walk, please help us help Caitlyn by spreading the word and raising awareness about this event. Your support and generosity are greatly appreciated.

line

Here’s To The Heroes

Here’s to the Heroes provides a single day’s free admission to any one SeaWorld or Busch Gardens park, Sesame Place, Adventure Island or Water Country USA for the service member and as many as three direct dependents.

Any active duty, active reserve, ready reserve service member or Guard member is entitled to free admission under the program. He or she need only register, either online at www.herosalute.com or in the entrance plaza of a participating park, and show a Department of Defense photo ID.

line

Association News

Enlisted Association of the National Guard of New Jersey

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

line

NGANJ has busy calendar for members in 2007

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

?? NGANJ Social - the Association’s Social will be conducted on Friday, April 13, 2007 at the Holiday Inn, East Windsor (Hightstown), N.J. This event will begin at 6 p.m. and will conclude at approximately 11 p.m. Cost per person is $60. This includes a one hour open bar, full course dinner and DJ. The attire will be the “dress” uniform for military and formal (suit) for civilians.

?? NGANJ 2007 Yearbook – Retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 Jack Petrosilli and his committee sent a mailing to all members requesting support for the Yearbook. Please return your ads and/or booster request no later than April 15. If you need a form, please contact Petrosilli.

?? Annual Business Meeting - the annual Business Meeting will be conducted on May 19, 2007 at the Timmermann Conference Center, Fort Dix. The meeting will begin at 8 a.m. (sign-in begins at 7:30 a.m.) and will conclude at noon. The attire for this meeting is “business casual”. This will be an opportunity for all members to see the four classrooms that were dedicated to New Jersey’s fallen Soldiers.

?? NGANJ President’s Golf Tournament - this tournament will be held at Falcon Creek Golf Course at McGuire AFB, on June 4. This will be a “shotgun” start beginning at 11 a.m. The course limit is 144 players, so early reservations are suggested. A hot buffet dinner will follow at approximately 5 p.m. at the McGuire NCO Club, located across the street from the course. This tournament benefits the “Scholarship Fund”. Last year, with your help, we were able to award nine $1,000 scholarships to deserving students. This year, we hope to meet or exceed that goal.

?? National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) 129th Conference - this conference will be held in San Juan, Puerto Rico from August 15 - 18, 2007. The New Jersey delegation will be staying at the Caribe Hilton (15 minutes from airport). Our hotel is located on the beach, has a great pool for the family and is located close to the convention center (10 minutes). We have reserved 30 rooms on a first come, first gets basis. Additional information and registration forms will be coming out shortly. If you are interested, please contact Capt. Jose Maldonado.

?? NGANJ Website - The above information is posted on the NGANJ website. If you need copies of the forms, specific contacts or additional information, please go to the website at: www.nganj.org.

line

line

   
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