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Military Report
The Military Community's
FREE Weekly Benefits & Quality of Life Newsletter

Monday, 07 APRIL 2014

View The Newsletter Online at http://www.military.com/NL_MR/1,14852,11724,00.html

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Welcome to Military Report, the largest weekly
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IN THIS WEEK'S ISSUE:

> Army Tightens Tattoo Policy
> Public Hearings on Military Pay and Benefits
> Free ACT/SAT Prep Software
> VFW Supports DoD's POW/MIA Realignment
> Featured Discount: 30% Military Discount at AXO
> Never Pay PMI and $0 Down Payment
> Free Tax Preparation for Military
> Eight Essential Tips to Help You Land a VA Loan
> $100,000 Family Protection: Only $7 a Month
> Storm the Hill with MOAA
> 2014 American Freedom Festival
> Weight Loss for Those With Disabilities
> AF to Reshape the Civilian Workforce
> Navy Tightens Base Access
> Endometriosis Awareness Month
> AAFES Ultimate Outdoors Sweepstakes
> Marine Corps Offers Early Retirement
> AF Junior Officer Promotions
> Navy Conducts Sleep Study
> Sesame Street Eases Moving Stress
> House Told DoD Must Limit Military Pay
> TRICARE and Young Adults
> Doc Fix Extension Approved
> Chenega Committed to Hiring Veterans
> Sexual Assault Awareness Month
> PTSD Program Locator
> Florida Waives Out-of-State Tuition


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Army Tightens Tattoo Policy

<p>The number, size and placement of tattoos have been dialed back under revised Army Regulation
670-1, which governs the Army's grooming standards and proper wear of the uniform. The revised
regulation was published March 31, along with Department of the Army Pamplet 670-1, outlining the
new standards. Effective dates for the various changes can also be found in All Army Activity
message, or ALARACT 082-2014.</p><p>Visit Military.com for a summary of the new
regulations.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/army-tightens-tattoo-policy?ESRC=mr.nl

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Public Hearings on Military Pay and Benefits

<p>The Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization Commission (MCRMC) is conducting a series
of public hearings across the United States looking especially at the areas of military
compensation, quality of life programs, and retirement systems. These panels will be reporting to
Congress and to the President and bringing ideas to a level where policy changes can be made. The
commission will submit a comprehensive report of its findings and recommendations by Feb. 1, 2015
to the President and Congress. For more information about the MCRMC and to comment on the future
of military compensation and retirement, visit the MCRMC website at www.mcrmc.gov.</p><p>For more
on military pay benefits, visit the Military.com Benefits Center.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/public-hearings-on-military-pay-and-benefits?ESRC=mr.nl

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Free ACT/SAT Prep Software

<p>To celebrate and honor Military families, eKnowledge donates FREE $250 SAT and ACT Test Prep
Programs. This Donation Project was created by the founders of eKnowledge to promote and prepare
Military children for higher education. eKnowledge's mission is to create opportunities for the
college bound by offering access to SAT and ACT test preparation for a small set up fee of $20
that covers online materials, shipping and access to online streaming. eKnowledge waives 100% of
the retail costs for the standard version and 93% of the cost for all other programs. These
programs retail for $200 to $600. eKnowledge sells these same materials in the open market for
full retail price. Through eKnowledge and Military.com these programs are available now. Order
Online Today: www.eKnowledge.com/Mil or telephone: 951-256-4076 (reference Military.com).</p>


http://www.military.com/military-report/free-act-sat-prep-software?ESRC=mr.nl

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VFW Supports DoD's POW/MIA Realignment

<p>The Veterans of Foreign Wars has announced their support for the Pentagon's efforts to realign
the two organizations charged with locating and identifying tens of thousands of American troops
who have yet to return home from their wars. Over the next 18 months, a Pentagon team will examine
the requirements necessary to merge policy guidance, archival research and analysis, and worldwide
field investigations and recovery operations into one organization. Read the full article on the
VFW website.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/vfw-supports-dods-pow-mia-realignment?ESRC=mr.nl

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Featured Discount: 30% Military Discount at AXO

<p>AXO is pleased to offer an Exclusive 30% Military Discount on all of its motorsport and cycle
riding apparel. Must validate military status.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/featured-discount-30-military-discount-at-axo-040714?ESRC=mr.nl

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Never Pay PMI and $0 Down Payment

<p>Now is the time to use your VA Loan. You don't have to pay PMI or have a large down payment.
Plus you can get financing up to $417,000. Use your VA Loan Benefit today.</p><p>Want more info on
your VA Loan Benefit?</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/never-pay-pmi-and-0-down-payment-040714?ESRC=mr.nl

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Free Tax Preparation for Military

<p>Military personnel and their families have access to a variety of tax preparation and filing
services for free.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/free-tax-preparation-for-military-040714?ESRC=mr.nl

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Eight Essential Tips to Help You Land a VA Loan

<p>Buying a home using your hard-earned VA loan benefits can be one of the most rewarding
financial experiences of your life. These government-backed mortgages have more flexible and
forgiving requirements than other loan types.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/eight-essential-tips-to-help-you-land-va-loan-040714?ESRC=mr.nl

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$100,000 Family Protection: Only $7 a Month

<p>Protection for less. Get $100,000 in coverage from only $7 a month. Could your family afford
their lifestyle if something happened to you?</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/100000-family-protection-only-7-month-040714?ESRC=mr.nl

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Storm the Hill with MOAA

<p>MOAA Council and Chapter Presidents from all 50 states, together with members of the national
board of directors and headquarters staff, plus members of MOAA's active duty, Guard, Reserve,
spouse, and auxiliary advisory committees will "storm" Capitol Hill on April 9 and visit nearly
all 535 representatives and senators in support of key legislative priorities. Learn more about
this year's Storming the Hill event, watch videos, contact Congress, and assist the efforts by
sending your legislators a MOAA-suggested message about these critical issues. Storm along with
MOAA.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/storm-hill-with-moaa?ESRC=mr.nl

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2014 American Freedom Festival

<p>The 5th Annual American Freedom Festival in San Diego is coming up on May 24. This year's
celebration of veterans and military families -- Honoring and Remembering Always! -- will once
again be held aboard the USS Midway and will feature the band, World Classic Rockers. This year's
event will benefit San Diego ASYMCA, Wounded Warrior Support Network, REBOOT Workshops and Nice
Guys Victory Fund. For more information, please visit www.americanfreedomfoundation.org or
www.midway.org/freedom or call (619) 398-8241.</p><p>For more military-related entertainment news,
visit the Military.com Off-duty Center.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/2014-american-freedom-festival?ESRC=mr.nl

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Weight Loss for Those With Disabilities

<p>Veterans and others with disabilities can lose weight through a program that involves phone
calls and a Web-based remote coaching tool. Researchers say the approach is low-cost and
effective. For more information, read the article on the Veterans Health Administration
website.</p><p>For more on veteran benefits, visit the Military.com Benefits Center.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/weight-loss-for-those-with-disabilities?ESRC=mr.nl

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AF to Reshape the Civilian Workforce

<p>Air Force officials recently announced additional civilian workforce shaping initiatives in
compliance with mandatory funding targets. The programs will run in parallel with military
programs. The Air Force will continue maximizing its Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA)
and Voluntary Separation Incentive Pay (VSIP). These programs offer early retirement and up to
$25,000 for employees whose voluntary separation would save another employee from being
involuntarily separated. Following the same basic criteria for the earlier round of VERA/VSIP
programs announced in December, surveys will again be distributed to a number of employees
targeting specific occupations and locations. For information about civilian employment, reduction
in force and other personnel issues, visit the myPers website.</p><p>For more veteran job news,
job postings and transition advice, visit the Military.com Veteran Jobs Center.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/af-to-reshape-civilian-workforce?ESRC=mr.nl

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Navy Tightens Base Access

<p>The U.S. Navy has directed additional screening of all delivery drivers presenting the
Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) to gain entry to Mid-Atlantic
installations. Before an individual is granted access, the National Crime Information Center
(NCIC) database is now checked for any criminal history or outstanding warrants that are grounds
for denial in accordance with Navy Region Mid-Atlantic access standards, which differ in some
respects from TWIC eligibility criteria. This change will ensure that Navy Region Mid-Atlantic's
denial criteria are applied consistently to all those seeking base access. Also, random security
measures will continue at entry control points. The commanding officer has the authority and
flexibility to implement increased measures at any time.</p><p>For more Navy news updates, visit
the Military.com News Center.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/navy-tightens-base-access?ESRC=mr.nl

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Endometriosis Awareness Month

<p>More than 5 million women are affected by endometriosis in the United States, yet many women are
not aware that they suffer from it. This Endometriosis Awareness Month, TRICARE beneficiaries can
take steps to find out if they are one of the millions of women living with this illness. TRICARE
covers the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis. The most common symptom of endometriosis is
pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis or lower back during menstrual periods. Women should talk with
their primary care manager if they have questions about endometriosis, are experiencing symptoms,
or if symptoms return after treatment. To learn more about endometriosis, visit
www.womenshealth.gov. For more information on TRICARE coverage visit the TRICARE website at
www.tricare.mil/coveredservices.</p><p>For more on TRICARE, visit the Military.com TRICARE
section.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/endometriosis-awareness-month?ESRC=mr.nl

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AAFES Ultimate Outdoors Sweepstakes

<p>The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is making it easy for shoppers to reel in a wide
selection of prizes with the MILITARY STAR(R) Ultimate Outdoor Sweepstakes. Now until May 1,
shoppers will be automatically entered in the sweepstakes each time they use their MILITARY
STAR(R) card at any Exchange facility, including main stores, Expresses and Class Six locations,
or on shopmyexchange.com. One grand-prize winner will receive the Ultimate Camping Experience,
valued at $2,049. Additional prize packages will be awarded. For more information, contact your
local Exchange.</p><p>For more discounts for military families and veterans, visit the
Military.com Discount Center.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/aafes-ultimate-outdoors-sweepstakes?ESRC=mr.nl

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Marine Corps Offers Early Retirement

<p>Within fiscal year 2015, the Marine Corps is authorized to offer voluntary retirement at a
reduced monthly retainer-pay rate to Reserve-component staff sergeants. The Marine Corps Active
Reserve Enlisted Temporary Early Retirement Authority Program (TERA) gives early retirement
benefits to Active-Reserve Marines. Applicants must have more than 15 years and less than 20 years
of active-duty service, be a staff sergeant and hold one of several specific military occupational
specialties. The Marine Corps established a submission window for TERA between the dates of March
21, 2014 and Sept. 1, 2014. The first eligible date to transfer to the Marine Corps Reserve, under
TERA, is July 31, 2014. TERA is not an entitlement. Each request will be considered on an
individual basis.</p><p>For more on military retirement and retirement benefits, visit the
Military.com Benefits section.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/marine-corps-offers-early-retirement?ESRC=mr.nl

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AF Junior Officer Promotions

<p>More than 100 Air Force first lieutenants were selected for promotion to captain during the
2013E Line of the Air Force Judge Advocate General Corps, Chaplain, Nurse Corps, Medical Service
Corps, Biomedical Sciences Corps Quarterly Selection Process. To see the list, visit the myPers
website and select "search all components" under the keyword search. Enter "Active Duty: Officer
Promotions Home Page" in the search window, select the promotion home page option and scroll down
to the officer promotion lists section. The list is also available on the Air Force Portal at
https://www.my.af.mil -- select the promotion link. For more information about promotions and
other personnel issues, visit the myPers website.</p><p>For more Air Force news updates, visit the
Military.com News Center.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/af-junior-officer-promotions?ESRC=mr.nl

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Navy Conducts Sleep Study

<p>Researchers and neuroscientists from Naval Health Research Center headquarters San Diego have
begun a sleep screen pilot study using a smart textile shirt. Service members wear the smart
textile device, which is similar to an athletic shirt, and spend the night in the sleep lab. Data
is collected via undetectable sensors that are embedded within the shirt's fabric. The data will
be analyzed at the end of the pilot study. Sleep apnea is the most likely use for this technology.
The team believes this technology may improve access and reliability of sleep diagnostic services
and expedite sleep health treatment for service members. For more information on sleep and sleep
apnea, visit the National Sleep Foundation website and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood
Institute website.</p><p>For more Navy news updates, visit the Military.com News Center.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/navy-conducts-sleep-study?ESRC=mr.nl

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Sesame Street Eases Moving Stress

<p>Children in military families move six to nine times between kindergarten and high school. A
mobile app launched aims to help them cope with leaving a familiar place for the unknown. The Big
Moving Adventure app lets children create a Muppet friend to help them through the moving process.
Developed for the Defense Department in partnership with Sesame Workshop, the mobile app is
available for download from the App Store, Google Play and Amazon for Kindle Fire. While developed
specifically for military families with children 3 to 5 years old, it is useful for all families
with young children experiencing a move.</p><p>For more PCS moving tips, including a downloadable
guide and moving checklist, visit the Military.com PCS section.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/sesame-street-eases-moving-stress?ESRC=mr.nl

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House Told DoD Must Limit Military Pay

<p>The Department of Defense's top personnel specialist recently testified on Capitol Hill that the
DoD must slow compensation and benefits growth to balance military lifestyle with readiness and
modernization. Jessica L. Wright, acting undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness,
told the House Armed Services Committee's military personnel subcommittee that DoD is "asking for
a 1 percent [military pay raise], as opposed to a higher percentage, so it can slow that
growth of a military member's pay, and also be able to bolster their readiness and bolster
[the] force and bolster their modernization." Witness statements from the hearing are
available on the House Armed Services Committee website.</p><p>For more on military pay benefits,
visit the Military.com Pay Section.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/house-told-dod-must-limit-military-pay?ESRC=mr.nl

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TRICARE and Young Adults

<p>TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) has plenty of great options for post adolescents from 21 years of age
up to the age of 26. TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) provides medical and pharmacy benefits, and meets
the 'minimum essential coverage' required by the Affordable Care Act. TYA is available to young
adults who are: (1) dependent of TRICARE-eligible unformed service sponsor; (2) unmarried; and (3)
at least 21 years of age, or 23 years of age if previously enrolled as a full-time college student
and the sponsor provides over 50 percent of the beneficiary's financial support. The beneficiary
must not have reached the age of 26. TYA cannot be purchased if the young adult is married,
eligible for another TRICARE program or eligible for an employer-sponsored health plan. For more
information and application forms, visit the TRICARE Young Adult webpage at
www.tricare.mil/TYA.</p><p>For more on TRICARE, visit the Military.com TRICARE section.</p>

http://www.military.com/military-report/tricare-and-young-adults?ESRC=mr.nl

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Doc Fix Extension Approved

<p>The Senate on Monday approved the "Protecting Access to Medicare Act" (H.R. 4302) sponsored by Rep. Joseph R Pitts (Penn.) that would prevent a 24 percent cut in payments to doctors seeing Medicare and TRICARE patients. The temporary one-year extension was approved after lawmakers in both chambers failed to find a solution to the recurrent problem of how to pay for the permanent "doc fix," which is estimated to cost $138 billion over 10 years. The bill was quickly signed into law (P.L. 113-93) by President Obama. The new temporary fix will expire on April 1, 2015. FRA supports a permanent resolution of the statutory funding formula for Medicare and TRICARE physician reimbursement rates (the "Doc Fix") to ensure that TRICARE and Medicare patients have access to quality health care services. The "Doc Fix" issue is listed on the FRA Action Center (action.fra.org) and is one of several issues to be discussed with legislators and their staff when the FRA National Board of Direc
tors (NBOD) storms the Hill next week.</p><p>For more on TRICARE, visit the Military.com TRICARE section.</p>


http://www.military.com/military-report/doc-fix-extension-approved?ESRC=mr.nl

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Chenega Committed to Hiring Veterans


<p>Start your civilian career with Chenega. As a business solutions leader they can provide endless opportunity and a career path that lets you choose where you want to be. Read More.</p>


http://www.military.com/military-report/chenega-committed-to-hiring-veterans-040714?ESRC=mr.nl

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Sexual Assault Awareness Month

<p>April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The Department of Veterans Affairs assists Veterans who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma (MST). VA health provider screenings found that about one in four women and one in 100 men seen in VA facilities report having experienced MST -- sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that occurred during military service. MST can affect Veterans' physical and mental health for many years. To assist recovery, treatment for MST-related physical and mental health conditions is available at every VHA facility, free to Veterans, regardless of service-connection status. Veterans may receive this free MST-related care, even when not eligible for other VA care. For more information, contact your facility's MST Coordinator or visit VA's Military Sexual Trauma webpage at www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp.</p><p>For more news on sexual assault in the military, see this Military.com section.</p>


http://www.military.com/military-report/sexual-assault-awareness-month?ESRC=mr.nl

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PTSD Program Locator

<p>The Department of Veterans Affairs PTSD Program Locator helps find users nearby specialized Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) programs. The Locator will search by state or find specialized PTSD programs by type.</p><p>For more resources on PTSD, visit the Military.com PTSD section.</p>


http://www.military.com/military-report/ptsd-program-locator?ESRC=mr.nl

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Florida Waives Out-of-State Tuition

<p>Florida Governor Rick Scott has signed into law the "Florida GI Bill," modeled after the World War II-era program and intended to make Florida the most military-friendly state in the nation. The new law provides university tuition waivers for veterans and is expected to help increase employment opportunities for veterans. Florida state universities and colleges will be giving $11.7 million in waivers for out-of-state tuition charges for all honorably discharged veterans. Because in-state tuition is thousands of dollars cheaper than out-of-state rates, lawmakers hope the new waivers encourage veterans from outside of the state to apply to Florida schools. For more information, visit the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs website.</p><p>For more on tuition assistance and military education benefits, visit the Military.com Education section.</p>


http://www.military.com/military-report/florida-waives-out-of-state-tuition?ESRC=mr.nl

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