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Statement from the Commissioner |
This week, the United States came to grief over the deaths of Sergeant William Jerome Rivers, Specialist Breona Moffett, and Specialist Kennedy Sanders in an enemy drone strike in Jordan. Sgt. Rivers was a native of Willingboro, New Jersey. The prayers of every New Jerseyan are with their families, their fellow service members, and the other brave heroes injured in the attack.
Our hearts ache. We honor their sacrifices, and we know that this country can never fully repay the debt we owe to them.
It has been said, “Poor is the Nation that has no heroes, but beggared is the Nation that has and forgets them.” Now, it is our responsibility to honor and remember their sacrifice.
Sgt. Rivers, Spc. Moffett, and Spc. Sanders did not sacrifice for their own personal gain. They did so for a greater good, for their fellow Soldiers and for those of us here at home. Most importantly, they did so to ensure that we and those who come after us enjoy the blessings of liberty, justice, and the freedoms enshrined in the United States Constitution.
To paraphrase President Abraham Lincoln, the world will little note nor long remember what I write here. It will never forget those who gave “the last full measure of devotion” in the service of the United States. However, may each of us in our own way continue to lift up those who lie in eternal peace. Through our actions, may we offer our gratitude and pass on this obligation to the next generation of Americans. |
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Let us honor and remember Sgt. Rivers, Spc. Moffett, and Spc. Sanders. Let us keep their families in our thoughts and in our prayers. Let us pray for the safety and success of those protecting this country both at home and around the world.
Brigadier General Lisa J. Hou, D.O. The Adjutant General & Commissioner |
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Multiple Dates and LocationsFree Eight-Hour Training Sessions
Mental Health First Aid Training
Learn How to Support Veterans
Intended for community organizations that interact with Service Members, Veterans, and their families at the local level, but is open for all interested participants.
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The Four Chaplains Memorial Services
The Four Chaplains, also sometimes referred to as the "Immortal Chaplains" or the "Dorchester Chaplains" were four United States Army Chaplains who gave their lives to save other civilian and military personnel as the troop ship SS Dorchester sank on February 3, 1943, during World War II.
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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. |
| View Full Calendar |
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Planeloads Depart for Fort Bliss
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Lisa J. Hou, D.O., The Adjutant General of New Jersey, NJ Army National Guard leaders and elected officials shake hands with departing Soldiers with the 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ on January 25-28, 2024.
More than 1,500 NJ Army National Guard Soldiers are traveling to Fort Bliss, Texas, for additional training prior to deploying to Southwest Asia in support of U.S. Central Command’s Combined Joint Task Force - Operation Inherent Resolve. This is the largest deployment of New Jersey Army National Guard Soldiers since 2008.
View Jan 25 Images
View Jan 27 Images
View Jan 28 Images |
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Join Our Team |
100% Free College Tuition
Bonuses up to $20,000
Student Loan Repayment |
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 | New Jersey Desert Storm Medal
On August 2, 1990, more than 200,000 Iraqi soldiers flooded into neighboring Kuwait. President George H.W. Bush described the invasion as "naked aggression" and set out to form a global coalition opposing the unprovoked attack.
Under Operation Desert Shield, American forces deployed to southwest Asia. From the New Jersey National Guard, Soldiers of the 328th Transportation Detachment, 253d Transportation Company, 144th Supply Company and Airmen from the 170th Air Refueling Group deployed to the region in support of operations against the Iraqi military, while many other guardsmen were activated for support roles stateside.
Operation Desert Storm began early January 17, 1991 with the aerial bombardment of Iraqi military targets, followed by a ground invasion of Kuwait on February 24th. Iraqi forces were driven out within 100 hours of commencing ground combat operations and Kuwait regained its sovereignty.
Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm Veterans, apply for your award at New Jersey Desert Storm Medal. |
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Video Interview with Susan CollinsLast year, DMAVA announced the implementation of two digital communication tools at our network of Veterans Homes following months of preparation.
Susan Collins is the Learning Management Administrator for the Veterans Home at Paramus.
Collins, who has extensive experience working as a critical care nurse, discusses how the mandated training/in-service requirements enhance the Residents’ quality of life along with modernizing Staff procedures. Watch Video |
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 | NJ Youth ChalleNGe Academy
The New Jersey Youth ChalleNGe Academy welcomed in Class 57 on January 17, 2024 at the New Jersey National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, NJ.
Class 57 "Intake Day" involves check-in, bag drag, haircuts (males only), security check, supply, medical screening and then assignment to one of three platoons: Alpha, Bravo, or Charlie.
Cadets also had a chance to say goodbye to their families until the "Family Day" events halfway through the 22-week program.
The mission of the NJYCA is to train and mentor disengaged teenage youth so they become responsible and productive citizens of their community, state, and country.
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 | National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey
With locations in Sea Girt and Lawrenceville, the National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey hosts all sorts of visitors throughout the year, including schools, scouts, veteran organizations, civic groups, and military units.
On the afternoon of January 24, 2024, the museum in Sea Girt welcomed a group from the Sea Girt Library. Earlier in the day the museum hosted a lively group of students from Union County TEAMS Charter School.
Thanks for visiting! |
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Defense Department expands retiree, dependent ID card renewals by mailC. Todd Lopez | DOD News | January 16, 2024
As part of an expansion of a Defense Department pilot program that kicked off in February 2023, most Uniformed Services Identification, or USID, card holders can now renew their cards online and receive them in the mail, instead of having to schedule an appointment at an ID card office.
Before this expansion, only sponsors with a common access card could request online renewals, but now most retirees and non-CAC holders are eligible.
The ongoing pilot program allows family members, retirees and others to avoid making appointments at a pass and ID card office. Instead, they can renew USID cards online via the ID Card Office online, or IDCO, website. It’s important to note that the pilot program is for renewal of the USID card only - not for the initial issue. Also, the pilot is limited to cardholders within the United States, though expansion to non-US addresses is in the works.
More information about the online USID card renewal pilot program, including restrictions and requirements, is available on the cac.mil website.
Read Full News Release |
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Upcoming Deadline - February 22, 2024 - for Vets to Get Reimbursed for Emergency Medical Expenses at Non-VA Facilities
Last year, VA created a unique, one-year open period during which veterans enrolled in VA Health Care can apply for VHA reimbursement of their emergency medical expenses at non-VA facilities for emergencies that occurred at any time during the last 14 years.
This right to a new reimbursement decision applies even if the veteran was previously denied reimbursement or never even applied for reimbursement in the past. But to be eligible for this new reimbursement decision, veterans must apply to VHA for reimbursement by February 22, 2024.
Learn More |
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2023 VA Federal Benefits Booklet: Unlocking a wealth of support for Veterans Cherie A. Parker | VA News | January 25, 2024
VA is pleased to present the “2023 VA Federal Benefits Booklet for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers” is now available in print and online.
The Benefits Booklet is a thorough guide that explains the numerous VA benefits and services to Veterans, their families and caregivers, as part of VA’s initiative to support and empower our country’s heroes. This tool directs Veterans through a myriad of services and initiatives created to recognize and appreciate their priceless service to our Nation.
Read Full News Release |
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VA provides free emergency suicide prevention care to nearly 50,000 Veterans and former service members in first year of new policy VA News | January 17, 2024
WASHINGTON - In the first year of VA’s new policy allowing eligible Veterans and certain former service members in acute suicidal crisis to go to any VA or non-VA health care facility for no-cost emergency health care, 49,714 Veterans and former service members have used this benefit - providing them with lifesaving care and saving more than $64 million in health care costs.
This policy has helped prevent Veteran suicide by guaranteeing no cost, world-class care to eligible individuals in times of crisis — including emergency room care, inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days, outpatient care for up to 90 days, and transportation costs. The policy has also increased access to no-cost emergent suicide care for up to 9 million Veterans, because eligible Veterans do not need to be enrolled in the VA system or go to a department facility to use this benefit.
Read Full News Release |
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 | VA Eye Care Services
In this series of theSITREP, the host chats with Dr. Michelle Miranda about optometry services at the Department of Veterans Affairs: to include how to schedule an eye exam, types of lenses and frames available, does VA provide contact lenses or LASIK surgery, and much more.
theSITREP Podcast |
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 | National Guard State Family Readiness Council
This past weekend roughly 1,500 soldiers of the New Jersey 44th Brigade Combat Team were given a send off. They will deploy in support of Operation Inherent Resolve currently in Iraq and Syris. This year represents the largest mobilization of NJ troops since 2008.
The council was there offering our support and help. Please help us in this effort. If you or maybe the company you work for can help us to continue our support of our Soldiers/Airman and their families. They need our help.
Image and caption courtesy NGSFRC. |
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 | VFW Auxiliary Post 5579
Thank you to everyone who donated to our BINGO visit at the Veterans Memorial Home in Vineland! We were able to donate 122 goodie bags filled with toiletries, slippers, crossword puzzels, and other items. We were also able to donate $230 in lottery tickets!
Image and caption courtesy VFW Auxiliary Post 5579. |
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 | Service, Past and Present
The third Monday of January is often shortened on calendars to “MLK Day”, but it is importantly the U.S. National Day of Service. This day was designed to pay tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. not solely to reflect on the memory of his works but to be inspired by them to volunteer in support of our communities. Whether it is a blood drive or working with young people, this day reminds us of how many forms in which service can take shape.
Veterans so often continue to serve, contributing in countless ways to their communities and setting incredible, positive examples for others. Carrying that torch of service forward, in or out of uniform, provides a source of meaning and purpose.
The Last Formation
The New Jersey Army National Guard’s Last Formation event honors those who are departing the NJARNG, whether at the expiration of a Soldier’s enlistment, a retirement, or anything in between. As difficult as it is to hang up the uniform, these Soldiers are joining a Veteran community that is hundreds of thousand strong in the Garden State.
There are countless Veterans groups, countless civic organizations, and truly an infinite number of ways to keep serving: feeling that sense of purpose through giving of oneself, making a positive impact, and feeling that sense of camaraderie when one joins others to support a cause.
Veteran or not, we each have daily choices on the ways through which we can contribute to those around us. May every third Monday in January be a call to action, loud and clear!
The Call to Teach
Knowing how much our Veterans have to offer our future generations, please help spread the word about the four year VETeach Pilot Program just passed into state law earlier this month.
The pilot program aims to facilitate the teacher certification of Veterans to increase employment opportunities for Veterans while ensuring a high-quality teacher workforce in New Jersey. Under the law, up to four public universities will be selected to enroll Veterans of the United States Armed Forces who served on or after September 11, 2001 in a 36-month teacher preparation program.
Contact a Veterans Service Officer for more information.
To all readers, thank you for your service, past and present! |
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Airman and Family Readiness – military agency provides a helping handDonna Jeffries | 108th Wing | January 30, 2024
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. - At least three hundred Guardsmen are expected to cross the threshold of the 108th Wing Military Airman and Family Readiness office door in 2024.
That’s the average number of individuals Doug Ridgway, 108th Wing Airman & Family Readiness Manager provides guidance and resources to each year regarding issues ranging from finance to deployment preparation. Add on the number of groups he addresses each year, and that number increases drastically.
What’s the draw? The services offered can be a lifeline or reset for those in need. Read Full Story |
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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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January 31, 2005
Operation Iraqi Freedom LCpl Harry R. Swain IVU.S. Marine Corps
Cumberland, New Jersey | February 1, 2011
Operation Enduring Freedom SPC Ryan A. Gartner
U.S. Army Dumont, New Jersey | February 3, 2004
Operation Iraqi Freedom
SGT Stephen R. Sherman U.S. Army Neptune, New Jersey |
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February 3, 2004
Operation Iraqi Freedom
2LT Seth J. DvorinU.S. Army East Brunswick, New Jersey |
February 7, 2007
Operation Iraqi Freedom Cpl Thomas E. SabaU.S. Marine Corps
Toms River, New Jersey | February 10, 2012
Operation Enduring Freedom LCpl. Osbrany M. De Oca
U.S. Marine Corps North Arlington, 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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 | Cornelia Hancock |
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February 1, 1777 | A British force skirmished with New Jersey militiamen at Drake’s Farm, near Springfield, as the “forage war” between the British seeking supplies in the countryside and the local militia heated up. |
February 1, 1865 |
New Jersey governor Joel Parker presented New Brunswick native Captain Charles Stewart Boggs with a presentation sword in recognition of Boggs’ heroic actions commanding the gunboat Varuna in the naval battles leading to the capture of New Orleans in April, 1862. Boggs sank six Confederate gunboats before his own ship began to sink, then ran Varuna into shore, tied her up to some trees and kept firing on the enemy. |
February 3, 1943 |
The troop ship SSAT Dorchester, with 904 men aboard, was torpedoed off Greenland. Four chaplains - one Jewish, two Protestant and one Catholic - gave their lifejackets to soldiers, joined arms, said prayers and went down with the ship. There were 230 survivors. The Catholic chaplain, Father John Washington, born in Newark in 1908, was a graduate of Seton Hall University and Darlington Seminary and assigned to St. Stephen’s parish in Kearny when he enlisted in the Army. The chaplains were posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart. There is a monument to Father Washington at Saint Rose of Lima Church, his home parish, on Orange Street in Newark and another to all four chaplains at St. Stephen’s.
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February 8, 1862 |
The Ninth New Jersey Infantry became the first New Jersey unit engaged in a full scale battle in the Civil War. At Roanoke Island, North Carolina, the regiment charged through a swamp, gaining the nickname “Jersey Muskrats.” The Muskrats lost nine men killed and twenty-five wounded in the fight. Among the dead was Captain Joseph Henry, the first New Jersey officer killed in action in the Civil War. |
February 8, 1840 |
Cornelia Hancock, known as the “Florence Nightingale of America,” was born at Hancock’s Bridge. In 1863, Hancock traveled to Gettysburg in the aftermath of the battle as a volunteer nurse and served through the remainder of the Civil War. After the war she taught freed slaves at Mount Pleasant, South Carolina and served as a pioneering social worker in Philadelphia. Hancock lived a long, fruitful and socially useful life before dying in Atlantic City on December 31, 1927. Her wartime letters were published in book form and are an important Civil War source. |
February 12, 1948 |
Under orders from Governor Alfred E. Driscoll, the New Jersey adjutant general’s office published General Order No. 4, specifying that “no qualified person shall be denied any military rights, nor be discriminated against in exercise of any military rights, nor be segregated in the militia because of religious principles, race, color, ancestry or national origin,” officially desegregating the state’s National Guard, despite opposition from the United States Department of War. New Jersey was the first state to desegregate its National Guard. |
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 | New Jersey Studies: An Interdisciplinary Journal is a project of the New Jersey Historical Commission, Rutgers University Libraries, and Monmouth University.
The Journal publishes original scholarship on all aspects of NJ studies, including military history.
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 | Paris Peace Accords Signed
On January 27, 1973, the “Agreement on Ending the War and Restoring Peace in Vietnam,” otherwise known the Paris Peace Accords, is signed by the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, the Republic of Vietnam, the Provisional Revolutionary Government (Viet Cong), and the United States.
Among other stipulations, the agreement establishes a ceasefire, a 60-day period for withdrawal of all American and other foreign troops, and the return of U.S. civilian and military personnel held prisoner by Communist forces. The accords officially end direct U.S. military involvement in Vietnam.
The next day, President Nixon uses an executive order to end the draft and inaugurate an all-volunteer military.
Source: The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration |
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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.
Subscribe to our Jobs Bulletin to stay updated on job openings.
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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. |
| Contact DMAVA |
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Please email us at outreach@dmava.nj.gov with feedback and comments regarding the newsletter. If you would like to contribute with an item of interest to our subscribers, please email us your proposal.
Visit the DMAVA archives to view previous editions of our newsletter.
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nj.gov/military NJ Department of Military & Veterans Affairs
101 Eggert Crossing Road Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
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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 & Veterans Affairs. |
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