Prioritized issues from the 6 January 2014 AFAP Focus Group.

Title: Military Dental Services for Dependents of Junior Enlisted Active Duty Service Members

Scope: Dependents of Junior Enlisted Active Duty Service Members are not authorized routine dental care at military dental facilities. On going dental expenses prevent dependents from accessing adequate dental care which is affecting their overall health. Civilian dental care costs are creating a financial burden for Junior Enlisted Active Duty Service Members.

Recommendation: Open military dental facilities to Junior Enlisted Active Duty dependents._____________________________________________________________________________________

Title: Matching Contributions for Active Duty Service Members Thrift Savings Plan

Scope: Active Duty Service Member Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions are not matched by Department of Defense. In contrast to Department of Defense federal civilian employees, TSP contributions are not matched for active duty participants. Current retirement funds are not sufficient to allow financial stability for Active Duty Service Members after retirement.

Recommendation: Match the contributions made by Active Duty Service Members to their TSP up to 5% of their base pay._____________________________________________________________________________________

Both these issues were approved by Fort Hamilton’s Garrison Commander, COL Elyun Gines and Ms. Pam Eller, Family Programs, MDW for elevation. Issues were forward on 24 January 2014 to Ms. Tanya Cuervo.

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