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Signing Ceremony | Sea Girt, NJ | July 21, 2023 |
(L-to-R) Tahesha Way, Esq., New Jersey Secretary of State; U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey and Commissioner of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs; Minister of Defence Michalis Giorgallas, Republic of Cyprus, and Lt. Gen. Dimokritos Zervakis, Chief of Defence, Republic of Cyprus |
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State Partnership Program
| In October 2022, the New Jersey National Guards’ application for a Partnership with the Republic of Cyprus had been accepted by the U.S. Department of State and was supported by the National Guard Bureau. With the addition of Cyprus as New Jersey's second Partner Nation, along with the Republic of Albania, we increase the size and scope of our New Jersey National Guard family.
The State Partnership Program enriches the lives and institutions of all those involved. Early last week we had the privilege of joining General Hokanson, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, and our nation’s many counterparts in Washington, D.C. to celebrate the 30-year international milestone of the State Partnership Program.
The United States began the State Partnership Program in 1993 with 13 partnerships. This has some parallel with our own state and nation’s origins in 13 colonies. This year, Cyprus is among the new group of nations that brings the program to 100 countries involved. It is truly incredible to see the scale of our international military partnerships and the collaboration they represent.
Our services’ areas of expertise and regional stability interests provide a ready-made platform for success from which to launch our collective efforts. The Republic of Cyprus is already an important partner in the United States’ work to promote regional stability, security and prosperity. The New Jersey National Guard is truly honored to play a greater role in supporting this partnership between nations. |
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U.S. Army Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, provides remarks during the State Partnership Program Signing Ceremony between the State of New Jersey and the Republic of Cyprus at the National Guard Training Center, Sea Girt, NJ, July 21, 2023. |
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The State Partnership Program represents so much more than security cooperation. The existing cultural ties between our New Jersey and Cypriot communities include robust commercial trade of more than $9 million per year, as well as thriving religious, educational, and artistic centers.
Every day, we are committed to strengthening the bonds of friendship, professionalism, and common purpose. The services of both the Republic of Cyprus and the NJ National Guard stand on a proud history and tradition of excellence. It has been my intent, as The Adjutant General of New Jersey, to ensure that these first steps we take together as partners set the conditions for future success.
Last week we were honored to host our Cypriot counterparts here in New Jersey. It was an important week for the State of New Jersey and our team. Yet our motivation and dedication are never just symbolic. The Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard are ready to get to work – together – with our Cypriot National Guard partners.
As we say in the National Guard, “Always Ready, Always There”. In my 28-years of service, I have found this to mean that the American Soldier and Airman possess the capacity to plan, lead, and most importantly, do what is right. We answer the call with our service to state and nation, and I am confident that our Cypriot partners share these key values.
On behalf of the entire New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, I extend to our Cypriot Partners the hand of friendship and a shared journey that crosses oceans and cultures. |
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Images from the signing ceremony can be found at NJNG Flickr.
We invite you to share ideas, events and feedback. Please email our team at outreach@dmava.nj.gov.
Brigadier General Lisa J. Hou, D.O. The Adjutant General & Commissioner |
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Brigadier General Lisa J. Hou The Adjutant General New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Cordially invites you to attend the
70th ANNIVERSARY ARMISTICE SIGNING CEREMONY
on Thursday the 27th of July 2023 at 11:00 am
at the
New Jersey Korean War Memorial
Brighton Park Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401
Dress Military: Service Uniform Civilian: Business Casual |
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August 21-22, 20239:00am - 4:00pm
GRANT MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
Lawrenceville Armory
151 Eggert Crossing Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
DMAVA and Grant Writing USA will present a two-day grants management workshop.
This in-person training is for grant recipient organizations across all disciplines. Attend this class and you will learn how to administer government grants and stay in compliance with applicable rules and regulations.
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DMAVA is sponsoring or will participate in the events below. A DMAVA Veterans Service Officer will be present at many of these events. Please check details to confirm.
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We add new events to our calendar on a daily basis so please bookmark and check back often.
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| View Full Calendar |
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CSM Kirkpatrick Assumes Responsibility of 44th IBCT | SSG Bruce Daddis | NJNG | July 15, 2023
Lawrenceville, NJ - Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Kirkpatrick officially returned to the New Jersey Army National Guard’s 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, replacing the retiring Command Sgt. Maj. Mark Rizzo, at a change of responsibility ceremony at the Lawrenceville Armory, July 15, 2023.
Read Full Story
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177th Fighter Wing |
The New Jersey Air National Guard's 177th Fighter Wing will be conducting night-flying training to maintain mission-capability and combat-readiness at home and abroad.
We thank you for your continuing support. |
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Join Our Team |
100% Free College Tuition
Bonuses up to $20,000
Student Loan Repayment |
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Meet Sibley Smith, VSO for Hunterdon & Warren CountySibley Judson Smith, Jr., Veterans’ Ombudsman (Principal Staff Officer III), serves as the Veterans Service Officer for Hunterdon County and Warren County, with an office located in Veteran's Haven North, Transitional Housing for Homeless Veterans in Glen Gardner.
Sibley holds a Bachelor’s degree in History, Magna Cum Laude, and a Master’s degree in American Studies. A native of Louisiana, he and his family moved to New Jersey in 1992, when he accepted the position of Executive Director and CEO of Historic Allaire Village in Allaire State Park, where he founded its 19th Century military history program.
Previously, he was an 18th Century military history museum specialist for Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. Before transferring into DMAVA’s Veterans Service Offices, Sibley was the 20th Century military history specialist at the Department’s Vietnam Era Museum at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Holmdel, where he was the Director of Education, head librarian, and superintendent of buildings and grounds.
Today, Sibley employs his expertise in research and writing, along with his passion for American military history, to skillfully assist New Jersey’s Veterans and their family members obtain their well-deserved benefits and entitlements as our way of thanking them for their service to our Country, to our State, to us.
Contact Sibley and his VSO colleagues around the state by visiting our website at Veterans Service Offices. |
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DMAVA HeadquartersOn July 19, 2023, the DMAVA Headquarters staff celebrated National Hot Dog Day with delicious hot dogs and spirited games of bingo. Thanks to the Events Committee for putting on a great event. |
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Welcome to Class 56NJ Youth ChalleNGe Academy Class 56 in-processed on July 17, 2023 at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, NJ. Follow their progress on our social media until their graduation in December 2023.
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NJ Youth ChalleNGe Academy DocuseriesAre you ready for the ChalleNGe?
In this nine-part docuseries, experience the 22-week residential program of NJ Youth ChalleNGe Academy's Class 55, from the first day at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, NJ to graduation in the summer of 2023.
View Video Playlist |
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Important Deadline for PACT Act ApproachingApplicants who submit a claim or their intent to file with the VA by August 9, 2023 may have their benefits backdated by one year if the claim is granted.
That means benefits would be backdated to August 10, 2022.
DMAVA can help connect you to VA and other benefits. Contact your local Veterans Service Office or call us at 888-8NJ-VETS (888-865-8387). As a state agency that works closely with the VA, our services are free and confidential.
Learn more at va.gov/pact. |
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Veterans Can Now File Supplemental Claims Online
Veterans can now file supplemental claims online at VA.gov. Filing a supplemental claim is an option for Veterans who disagree with a previously denied claim decision regarding disability compensation or pension benefits. Learn More at VA News |
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| VA Partners with Arthritis Foundation
In collaboration with VA, the Arthritis Foundation created a new webpage filled with information and resources to help Veterans take control of arthritis symptoms and challenges.
Learn More at VA News |
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Survivor Benefit Plan Open Season
Congress provided for a Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) Open Season in the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. The SBP Open Season began on December 23, 2022 and ends on January 1, 2024.
The SBP Open Season allows for retirees receiving retired pay, eligible members, or former members awaiting retired pay who are currently NOT enrolled in SBP or RCSBP (Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan) to enroll.
The SBP Open Season also allows eligible members and former members who are currently enrolled in either SBP or RCSBP to permanently discontinue their SBP coverage.
Learn More |
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National Parks Pass
There is a new lifetime pass for National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands, called America the Beautiful.
This lifetime pass for Gold Star Families & Veterans is being offered to demonstrate the country's immense gratitude and respect for those who have served and defended our country.
Learn More at VA News |
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VALife Insurance
Veterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife) provides guaranteed acceptance whole life coverage of up to $40,000 to Veterans with service-connected disabilities. Lesser amounts are available in increments of $10,000. Under this plan, the elected coverage takes effect two years after enrollment as long as premiums are paid during the two-year period.
All Veterans age 80 or under with a VA disability rating of 0 to 100% are eligible for the VALife program and have no time limit to apply.
Learn More |
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Thrift Savings PlanIn these episodes of theSITREP, the host explores 32 different aspects of the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The host is joined by U.S. Air Force Veteran, Mike Jerue, who serves as the Deputy Chief Investment Officer at Thrift Savings Plan.
View Playlist |
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#VetResources
| Subscribe to #VetResources to receive a weekly newsletter from the VA for Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors. |
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Operation K9 BeethovenArpi, Beethoven, Chris, and Duffy members of our Pet Therapy Program visited with the lovely residents at Menlo Park Veterans Memorial Home, Edison, NJ on July 21, 2023! Everyone had a lovely time, the residents were very happy! Helping Veterans One Paw At A Time!
Image and caption courtesy Operation K9 Beethoven Facebook |
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National Guard State Family Readiness Council
So far in 2023 the New Jersey National Guard State Family Readiness Council has given over $30,000 in grants to our soldiers, airmen and their families in need. These grants helped with mortgage payments, doctors bills and a dozen other issues our heroes had.
We continue to support them and their families as they continue to serve and protect us. Learn More |
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Honor Military VeteransThis new NJBIZ awards program will honor military Veterans who are making a significant impact on New Jersey business as well as continuing to give back to their community. Winners will be recognized during a virtual awards ceremony in November 2023.
Nomination deadline: August 20, 2023
Learn More |
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In Honor of all those from New Jersey who gave their lives in the fight against terrorism during Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. In humble gratitude, we remember their sacrifice. |
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August 1, 2004
Operation Iraqi Freedom
SPC Anthony Joseph DixonU.S. Army Lindenwold, New Jersey |
August 1, 2006
Operation Iraqi Freedom SPC Hai Ming HsiaU.S. Army
Newark, New Jersey | August 3, 2005
Operation Iraqi Freedom LCpl Edward A. Schroeder
U.S. Marine Corps Mapplewood, New Jersey | August 6, 2007
Operation Iraqi Freedom
CPL Kareem R. KhanU.S. Army Manahawkin, New Jersey |
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August 8, 2011
Operation Enduring Freedom
SGT Alessandro L. PlutinoU.S. Army Pitman, New Jersey |
August 9, 2005
Operation Iraqi Freedom SPC Gennaro Pellegrini Jr.U.S. Army
Wildwood, New Jersey | August 10, 2011
Operation Enduring Freedom CPL Nicholas S. Ott
U.S. Marine Corps Manchester, New Jersey | August 12, 2004
Operation Iraqi Freedom
CPT Michael Yury TarlavskyU.S. Army Passaic, New Jersey |
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"But on the battlefield their feet stood fast, and in an instant at the height of their fortune, they passed away from the scene, not of their fear, but of their glory."
~ Pericles |
| NJ Fallen Heroes Memorial |
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The "Black Tom" Ammunition Pier |
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July 30, 1673
| New York and New Jersey, which together were New Netherland until 1664, were recaptured from their British conquerors by a twenty-one ship Dutch fleet, the largest ever seen in North America, without a shot being fired. The colonies were returned to British control, however, in a peace treaty signed in November 1674. A Captain Manning, the commander who surrendered to the Dutch, was subsequently sentenced to publicly having a sword broken over his head. |
July 30, 1916 |
The “Black Tom” ammunition pier on the Hudson River in Jersey City exploded. Although America was still neutral in World War I, large amounts of ammunition manufactured in the United States were shipped to the allies in Europe, and German saboteurs had placed bombs on the pier. A postwar Claims Commission found Germany guilty of sabotage in both Black Tom and the subsequent Kingsland explosion in Lyndhurst, and awarded $50 million in damages to claimants. World War II intervened, but in 1953 the West German government, without ever admitting responsibility, agreed to pay the compensation. It was finally paid in 1979.
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August 7, 1861 |
General Philip Kearny, one armed New Jersey hero of the Mexican War, assumed command of the First New Jersey Brigade in Virginia. The ill-disciplined brigade’s first meeting with its new commander was not auspicious, as he found the Jerseymen looting a peach orchard. After placing the officers under arrest, Kearny met with them and laid out disciplinary guidelines. Over the winter of 1861-1862, the general’s training regimen turned the brigade into a first class outfit, a reputation it maintained to the end of the war. Kearny never commanded the Jerseymen in combat, though, leaving for division command before the Peninsula Campaign.
| August 8, 1757 |
The garrison of Fort William Henry, on Lake George, including several hundred men from the New Jersey Provincial Regiment, known as the “Jersey Blues,” surrendered to the French. Many of the Jerseymen were kidnapped by Canadian Indians in the post-surrender massacre made famous in the Burlington, New Jersey-born James Fenimore Cooper’s novel Last of the Mohicans and its subsequent film adaptations. |
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National Guard Militia Museum of NJ
One Museum | Two Locations
Free Admission |
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Sea Girt | Monday-Friday 10AM to 3PM
Closed: Weekends and
State Holidays |
| Plan Your Visit |
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Lawrenceville | Monday-Friday 9AM to 3PM
Saturday 10AM to 3PM
Closed: State Holidays |
| Plan Your Visit |
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State Partnership Program Turns 30 | MSG Jim Greenhill and SFC Zach Sheely | National Guard Bureau | July 17, 2023
On the eve of its 30th anniversary, the Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program has matured into thriving security cooperation relationships with 100 nations.
"The utility of the SPP is something you can't put a price on," said Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson, 29th Chief of the National Guard Bureau. "The Department of Defense, and the State Department, and - particularly - the geographic combatant commanders see the value it provides."
The SPP pairs the National Guard of every state, territory and the District of Columbia with nations around the world. Current and former senior leaders say it is equally beneficial to both partners.
Read Full Story |
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Peter Insalaco |
Peter Insalaco is a resident at the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home at Menlo Park. Peter built an awesome garden that beautifies the facility and can be enjoyed by all of the residents and staff.
Peter served in the U.S. Navy and performed temporary duty with the U.S. Marine Corps during the period from 1961 to 1963. Most notably, he served aboard the USS Randolph.
Thank you, Peter, for your service to the nation and for sharing your green thumb! |
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Congratulations to Samuel Roberts | Sam is a true DMAVA success story!
Sam is a United States Marine Corps Veteran who struggled with addiction. He eventually arrived as a resident at Veteran’s Haven North (VHN) where he credits the staff with helping “restore” him.
Sam received the official notice on July 25, 2023 - on National Hire A Veteran Day - that he has been hired as a full-time maintenance tradesman at VHN.
We encourage you to watch this brief video interview with Sam where he shares a bit of his story.
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Staff Sgt. Mateo Hoyos | Congratulations to Staff Sergeant Mateo Hoyos for his acceptance into Princeton University as an undergraduate in the computer engineering degree program. Hoyos is an avionics specialist in the 108th Maintenance Squadron of the New Jersey Air National Guard's 108th Wing.
A shout out to all our Guardsmen pursuing higher education! |
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Joe Dige | Hi, I’m Joe Dige and I’m excited to be joining the National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey in Sea Girt as an intern this summer!
In the fall I’ll begin my senior year at Monmouth University where I’m currently studying business finance and history and am expecting to go on to earn an MBA in finance once my undergraduate studies are complete. While my course of study favors business, history has always been my greatest passion.
From early childhood I have been fascinated with the stories, both broad and personal, which emerge from history, especially those from the military. As a child, hearing family war stories fostered my love of the past. I’m hoping that my work at this museum can help preserve those stories which will spark that same love in others.
Through this experience, I am looking to improve my writing and speaking skills, while also satisfying my curiosity about how museum work is done and perhaps prepare myself for a future career in the field. |
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We Are Hiring!
At the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs we take our work in support of Veterans, Servicemembers and their families very seriously. Whether supporting our Veterans with nursing care, transitional housing, or assisting them in navigating access to their Veteran benefits, the Department provides valuable services and can offer rewarding career opportunities to members of the public.
We also have opportunities in facilities management and program management. In addition, we have job openings for members of our military to serve in AGR and Federal Technician roles.
Stay updated on job openings by subscribing to our Jobs Bulletin.
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We hope you enjoy receiving our newsletter and find it both educational and engaging. If you have questions about our department, our programs or your benefits, please visit our website at nj.gov/military to get contact information.
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| Contact DMAVA |
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We welcome feedback and comments from the public regarding the newsletter. If you would like to contribute with an item of interest to our subscribers, please email us your proposal. Contact the newsletter team at outreach@dmava.nj.gov.
To view previous editions of our newsletter, please visit the DMAVA archives.
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nj.gov/military NJ Department of Military & Veterans Affairs
101 Eggert Crossing Road Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Privacy Notice
Disclaimer: The appearance of any non-DMAVA information or hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement of the products or services on the part of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. |
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