Navy.TogetherWeServed Newsletter - October, 2009

In This Issue

GROWING STRONGFIRST CALL: Notes & Ramblings From ThePilothouseFeatured UpdatesDoD to Compensate 'Stop Loss' TroopsUM ADVERTISEMENTTO YOUR HEALTH!Gates calls on ROK to expand security roleSome Sailors puzzled over new GI BilltransferabilityDid You Know?Navy ship commanded by former refugeeto visit VietnamOIF & OEF MapsServices Show Record Recruiting YearPresident visits NAS JacksonvilleIT Diversity, Part 1Got discounts for Sailors?Getting Your Reunion Notice (and noticed) inThe HOISTVET TOPICSOUR ALLIES IN-ARMSTWS Coins, Coffee & More - the TWS Cafe!FAMILY MATTERSAMERICANS AT WAROFF DUTY:THE HOIST - NTWS Newsletter

MCPON stresses heritage inbirthday message to FleetBy MCPON Rick West

WASHINGTON -- Very recently I had the honor ofvisiting Mrs. Ima Black. For those of you who don'tknow, she is the widow of our first Master Chief PettyOfficer of the Navy, Del Black.

In honor of our 234th birthday as a service, I'd like totell you a little bit about this amazing lady becauseshe represents so much that is right about our Navyand her life so closely parallels our history.

Ima's eighty-eight-years old,an honorary master chief, aproud chief petty officer'swife and an amazingsupporter of the AmericanSailor. From the minute we

Happy Birthday US NAVY!It's time again to honk our collective horns, shoot the fireworks and strike up theband...

1775 - This is the date that the Navy recognizes as it's "official" birthday.

Our Navy traces its origins to theContinental Navy, which the ContinentalCongress established on October 13,1775 by authorizing the procurement,fitting out, manning, and dispatch oftwo armed vessels to cruise in search ofmunitions ships supplying the BritishArmy in America. The legislation alsoestablished a Naval Committee tosupervise the work.

All together, the Continental Navy numbered some 50 ships over the course of thewar, with around 20 warships in active service at its maximum strength. After theAmerican War for Independence, Congress disbanded the Continental Navy,released the seamen and officers, and auctioned off its warship fleet.

Later, the Constitution of the United States, ratified in 1789, empowered Congress"to provide and maintain a navy." Acting on this authority, Congress ordered theconstruction and manning of six frigates in 1794, and the War Departmentadministered naval affairs from that year until Congress established theDepartment of the Navy on April 30, 1798.

In 1972, however, Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) the late Admiral Elmo R.Zumwalt authorized recognition of October 13, 1775 as our Navy’s birthday.

----------234th US Navy Birthday Message

As delivered by ADM Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff ,

The Pentagon, Washington DC.

On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress met in Philadelphia and passed legislationcreating what would become the United States Navy. America celebrates this day every year,marking the service, sacrifice and devotion to duty of our Sailors

Sailor. From the minute wesat down to lunch sheasked about you, about ourmen and women at sea andabout the Sailors serving inIraq, Afghanistan and otherdangerous places around

the world.

I told her that I'd never seen so many men and womenin uniform with so much passion to serve, so muchenthusiasm to represent our nation. We talked abouttoday's Navy and she told me some stories about theNavy she joined in 1943.

Mrs. Black lives in a retired community down inFlorida, in a small apartment overlooking a little lake.She's surrounded by friends and is quick to point outthat every once in a while a few Sailors drop by to seehow she's doing. Her apartment is a tribute to our firstMCPON. Pictures, uniform items, anchors…allmementos from Del Black's amazing career. But if youlook closely, you'll see that it's much more. It's a livinghistory of our Navy.

There are pictures of a young Seaman Del Black whenhe was aboard USS Maryland in Pearl Harbor, justbefore the fleet was attacked December 7th, 1941.Photo albums hold letters written from several moreships over the course of his career. One pictureshows MCPON Black, Ima and Admiral ElmoZumwalt, the Chief of Naval Operations from 1970 to1974. Look closely at another and you'll see him at hismost comfortable, surrounded by Sailors on the messdecks of a ship.

He took care of Sailors at a time when our Navy hadno idea what or who a MCPON was. He went wherethe fight was, to Vietnam. And he went where the fleetwas, to our ships at sea.

On our 234th birthday, I ask that you rememberMCPON Black and you consider that there arethousands of men and women just like his wife Imawho keep our Navy's history alive. Seek them out.Talk with them and your lives will be richer for it.

Happy birthday shipmates. You are part of a legacythat grows stronger each day due to your effort, yourinitiative and your willingness to serve.

HOOYAH, Navy!- Photo by MC1 Jennifer A. Villalovos

marking the service, sacrifice and devotion to duty of our Sailorsaround the globe.

Over 45,000 Sailors are supporting joint, interagency, andmultinational operations throughout the world – building,engaging, and securing – as always delivering peacethrough strength.

They serve on nearly 200 ships and submarines underwayat any moment providing critical capabilities for ballisticmissile defense, counterterrorism operations, anti-piracy efforts, and humanitarianrelief missions. Their impressive and persistent presence, however, would beimpossible without the steady support of our Navy families. Without them, wecould not accomplish a single mission.

On behalf of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, I congratulate you and your families on 234years of proud Navy service. Your rich heritage, combat readiness, and relentlesstenacity make us very proud of you all.

Bravo Zulu and Happy Birthday, Shipmates!

M.G. MULLENAdmiral, US Navy

----------

WE GET LETTERS...Here's a couple of emails to share from fans of TWS' power of connectivity...

HEY, really great layout...very eye-appealing...and I do know what I'm yakkin' onthere 'cause in a 30-some-odd-years career as civilian and military "journalist" wasfrequently doing the "makeup" for civilian and military newspapers and a lot ofbalance and eye appeal involved. Appreciate more than I can say the "adventures"and acquaintances that glow among your "pages". TNX with great respect for theprofessionalism you folks manifest.

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Fifteen years ago, my dad's B-17 crew all came to Omaha for a reunion. They haddinner at my parents house. My five brothers and I were invited. My dad's ballturret gunner, Marty Knapp, told us, "Your dad is the reason we are all still alive."He told us how my dad maneuvered inside the formation, turning towards the flak.The Germans would adjust fire only to miss on the other side. They alwaysconsidered our dad their pal. That's the same way all of us felt about him too.

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Just want to inform you guys I am currently deployed to Al Asad, Iraq on an IA(individual augmentee) billet where I have been since April 11 of this year. Pleasekeep up the good work you guys have been doing for the past year and I do lookforward to this site to keep in contact with past and present friends I have made inservice to this great country. Thank you so very much.

- CPO(AW/SW) Steve Hodge, USN---------

We want to hear from you!!This is YOUR newsletter, folks...

Got an interesting story to share? Had a brush with a historic figure in Navyhistory? Want to tell us about an assignment that beat all others? Do you havephotos of what life was like when you served in Navy Blue?

Why not share it with your buddies through The HOIST?

MUSCLE POWER - A Sailor prepares to break alarge piece of rubble while he and his shipmatesclean an area of downtown Pago Pago, AmericanSamoa. An earthquake and tsunami earlier this monthleft people homeless and devastated the area.- USAF photo by TSgt. Cohen Young

- US, Indonesian militaries join to assist inhumanitarian efforts- Navy names cargo ship for civil rights activistMedgar Evers- Finalists named for Best Navy Mess award- Leap Frogs kick off Ironman WorldChampionship in Hawaii- SUBASE Groton honors World War II hero- USNA celebrates its heritage, USN birthday

RIVERINE RUSH - Sailors from Navy RiverineSquadron Two conduct training with members of theIraqi Coastal Border Guard near Umm Qasr. - Photo by PO2 Harold M. Crockett

TENDING THE LINE - SR Jose A. Delgado heaves aline on the flight deck of the amphibious transportdock ship USS Denver (LPD 9) during at-seareplenishment with the Military Sealift Command oilerUSNS John Ericsson (T-AO 194). Denver is the leadship of the Denver Amphibious Ready Groupconducting a fall patrol in the western Pacific Oceanalong with the embarked 31st Marine ExpeditionaryUnit (MEU).- Photo by MC3 Casey H. Kyhl

Drop us an email any time to ntws.editor@gmail.com. We'll be glad to hearfrom you!

Until next time...

Jon YimEditor

Featured Updates

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DoD to Compensate 'Stop Loss' TroopsStory by SFC Michael J. CardenAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON -- The Defense Department will implement a new program tocompensate former and current servicemembers for each month they involuntarilyserved from Sept. 11, 2001 to Sept. 30, 2009, a defense official said.

Congress approved an appropriation bill last summer, giving the department $534million over the next year for an estimated 185,000 servicemembers affected bythe “Stop Loss” authority since 9/11, said Sam Retherford, director for the

TWS on the Radio

VFW's National DefenseRadio Interview with MajorWes Prater

TWS is proud to announce theintroduction of the new TWSAssociations Support Program. This is a unique feature thatprovides specially constructedAssociation Profile pages thatpresent a unique set of tools

available for free to any Military Association to use formember/roster management, outreach to the TWSCommunity, and to publish news and informationabout the Association.

Of particular note, TWS is extremely proud of agrowing partnership with the Veterans of ForeignWars. The VFW hosts The National Defense radioprogram and was kind enough to interview Maj. WesPrater, TWS co-founder/administrator recently aboutthe growth of TWS and the unique services provided.Click here to listen to the interview.

Navy.Togetherweserved is your website - pleasehelp secure its future by upgrading to FullMembership.

There is no charge to join NTWS and remain a FreeMember, however there are considerable benefits tobecoming a Full Member. By upgrading to FullMembership, which is modestly priced and very simpleto do, you not only have access to premium areas ofthe website but, in so doing, you also help support theongoing development, maintenance and promotion ofNavy.TogetherWeServed.com and keep itadvertisement free.

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If every NTWS Member invites one or more active,reserve or retired Shipmate to join NTWS, thisdramatically increases the chances of Members beingable to locate other Shipmates they served with.

As a way of saying thank you, for every 5 (five) new

the “Stop Loss” authority since 9/11, said Sam Retherford, director for thedepartment’s officer and enlisted personnel management office.

In an interview with the PentagonChannel and American Forces PressService, Retherford explained thatqualified servicemembers will receive$500 for each month served pasttheir contracted end-of-service,resignation or retirement date.

“Stop Loss is very difficult,” he said.“Members have obligations and haveintended periods of service, then

they have plans for themselves and their families afterward. So we’re doingeverything we can to discontinue the use of this authority and compensate ourmembers.”

Survivors of servicemembers killed in combat or who died after their service will beallowed to make claims. Retherford said those families are entitled to thecompensation and shouldn’t be forgotten. “We’ve asked the services to go outthere and identify those who’ve passed away subsequent to their military serviceor in the conflict,” he said.

Those seeking claims have until Oct. 20, 2010 to do so. The services were directedto develop their own online application process and Web sites defining criteria, aswell as their systems for seeking out those who qualify and may have lost contactwith their service, he said.

Here’s where to get information from each service:

-- Army: https://www.stoplosspay.army.mil or e-mail toRetroStopLossPay@conus.army.mil

-- Navy: E-mail to NXAG_N132C@navy.mil

-- Air Force: http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/stoploss/

-- Marine Corps: https://www.manpower.usmc.mil/stoploss or e-mail tostoploss@usmc.mil

Servicemembers must have been discharged honorably, and have sufficientdocuments proving their case. Servicemembers who were affected by Stop Loss,but later decided to extend or re-enlist also qualify.

“You’ll have to submit documentation to show that you were Stop Lossed --certificate of discharge, separation orders, retirement orders, memoranda fromprevious commanders or organizations,” Retherford said. “Even if you don’t haveall the correct documentation, we encourage you to submit and articulate theclaim, because the service may have the documentation.”

The process shouldn’t be difficult for most applying for claims. The militarydepartments will verify eligibility to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.“So all the work will be done right up front,” Retherford said. “All DFAS will have todo is issue payment.”

For those who don’t have documents and believe they should qualify, thedepartment included a provision in the policy memorandum that allows them tomake their case through a memo from their former chain of command.

Locating former servicemembers and survivors is the most challenging aspect ofthe program, Retherford said, and the program was designed with that in mind.The department tasks each service to develop its own initiatives to seek out those

As a way of saying thank you, for every 5 (five) newMembers who join from your personal invitations, wewill extend your Full Membership by 6 months. Clickhere to invite an Shipmate.

Navy retains over 97% from Sr.Enlisted Continuation BoardStory by MCC(SW) Maria YagerChief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, TN -- More than 97 percent ofcandidates reviewed by the Navy's Senior EnlistedContinuation Board were selected to continue navalservice according to a Navy message released Oct.30.

"The overwhelming continuance of our senior enlisteddemonstrates the extraordinary quality of the chiefpetty officer mess. The records of eligible masterchiefs, senior chiefs and chiefs were reviewed andgiven full consideration," said Vice Admiral MarkFerguson, chief of naval personnel.

After complete review of 5,686 eligible active duty andfull-time-support candidates, the board selected 5,528members for continuation.

According to the precept, which outlines whatinformation board members may or may not considerfrom a record, documented misconduct andsubstandard performance were the primary reasons aSailor would not be selected for continued service.

Some examples include "significant problems" or"progressing" promotion recommendations, decliningperformance from the same reporting senior, failure tomaintain physical fitness assessment standards,military or civilian convictions, and non-judicialpunishment.

Members not selected for continuation will retire nolater than June 30.

"There were chiefs with adverse information in theirrecords, and many of them are staying. That, in itself,should tell any doubters that there was no quota, andthat we are not a zero defect Navy. People makemistakes. Often times, it's how we respond after thosemistakes that defines us as chiefs, as Sailors and asleaders in our Navy," said Master Chief Petty Officerof the Navy (SS/SW) Rick West.

The board concluded deliberations at Navy PersonnelCommand Oct. 1 and the results were forwarded toCNP for approval. Sailors not selected for continuationwere personally notified prior to the results posting inBUPERS Online. Candidates can check their status at

The department tasks each service to develop its own initiatives to seek out thosewho qualify.

“Getting the word out is our No. 1 challenge,” Retherford said. “Many are formermembers. Many have no obligation to the military anymore and are scatteredacross the world right now. Getting the word out for people to solicit the claim isour first challenge.”

The retroactive special pay isn’t an official end to the Stop Loss authority, but thedepartment plans to phase out its use in fiscal 2011. The department retains theauthority in case of a national emergency.

“In this case, we’ve been frustrated in our attempts to minimize Stop Loss becauseof the persistent and dynamic nature of the conflict,” Retherford said. “Thesecretary of defense has already established a plan, and we’ve reduced Stop Losssignificantly.”

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Military will have enough H1N1 vaccine, officials sayStory by Judith SnydermanSpecial to TWS Newsletters

WASHINGTON -- As shipments of some 3.7 million doses of H1N1 vaccineordered by the Defense Department continue to arrive from the manufacturer,more than enough will be available for all military personnel and their beneficiaries,military medical experts say.

Navy Commander Danny Shiau, division chief for the Bureau of Navy Medicine andSurgery’s force health protection, and Dr. Robert Morrow, the bureau’s preventivemedicine programs and policy officer, took questions about the military’s seasonalflu and H1N1 preparedness efforts during an Oct. 29 “DoDLive” bloggersroundtable.

Immunization for both seasonal flu and H1N1 ismandatory for all military personnel and it is highlyrecommended for beneficiaries. When the first cases ofH1N1 were diagnosed in April, Morrow said, thedepartment bought 2.7 million doses of the vaccine formission assurance purposes.

At the time, it was unclear how many doses, per person,would be needed. But a single dose has been determined to be effective, Morrow

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates gives his

remarks to US, KATUSA and ROK soldiers

during a town hall meeting at Yongsan Army

Garrison in Seoul, South Korea. Gates was in

South Korea to discuss a broad range of

defense issues with local leaders.

- DoD photo by MSgt. Jerry Morrison, USAF

BUPERS Online. Candidates can check their status athttps://www.bol.navy.mil.

"The purpose of this board was to continue to improvethe effectiveness of the force by identifying andcontinuing our most fully qualified enlisted leaders. Iappreciate the leadership of the CPO mess in thisprocess," Ferguson commented.

The Senior Enlisted Continuation Board is aperformance-driven review of master chiefs, seniorchiefs and chiefs with more than 20 years of serviceand three years time-in-grade.

If you forgot your User ID and Password, click on the"Reminder" link found on the Login page, or followthis Link.

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A huge success!New TWS Persons LocatorServiceWe recently announced the new TWS PersonsLocator Service and we're happy to report that it'sbeen a resounding success in a very short time!

There have alreadybeen dozens of"buddy finds" over thelast few weeks, fromall services, so wethought it useful torepeat theannouncement thismonth to ensuremaximum exposure.

This service is free forall Full TWS

Members. Regardless if the person you're looking foris registered on TWS or not, odds are we can help youfind them! Our TWS PLS Team is headed by our staffveterans, Air Force SMSgt. Jim Franklin and MarineCpl. George Reilly.

TWS' PLS uses only publicly-available informationsources to conduct searches.

A special PLS form will be installed on the left-handside of the Home Page shortly, but you can submityour request to personlocator@togetherweserved.com- please limit your request to only one submission at a

would be needed. But a single dose has been determined to be effective, Morrowsaid. The Health and Human Services Department distributed 1 million doses of thevaccine, Sanofi Pasteur, to the department, “so that’s a total of 3.7 millionindividuals for [Defense Department] active duty, reservists, civilians and essentialcontractors,” he said.

First priority for the vaccine will go to deployed forces, Shiau said, first in placeslike Iraq and Afghanistan, then to ships, trainees and health care workers based onprioritizations.

Priorities for beneficiaries in the United States will follow federal and stateguidelines, whether beneficiaries opt to get the H1N1 vaccine at military treatmentfacilities or at non-military clinics, Shiau said. In either case, since the vaccine isfree, and there will be plenty of it, it will not matter whether they get their shotfrom the military or civilian supply.

Overseas, civilian defense workers and beneficiaries will be able to get the H1N1vaccine at military treatment facilities.

Shiau added that so far, the general severity of cases seen has been mild tomoderate and there’s been no operational effect on defense. But, he said, thosewith symptoms should contact their doctor or treatment facility before heading toan emergency room, because some facilities have special procedures. “The bottomline is, you don’t want to spread it in the ER,” he said.

The extra care being taken may be because “this is the first time that we’ve hadtwo different kinds of influenza going around at the same time and two differentkinds of influenza shots going around at the same time, and it’s very confusing,even to those who do this day in and day out,” Morrow said.

His best advice is that when you have questions, “ask and clarify.” Shiau addedthat to help prevent spreading seasonal and H1N1 flu, people should wash theirhands thoroughly, cover their mouths when coughing and, when possible, do notgo to work sick.

Gates calls on ROK to expand security roleStory by Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service

SEOUL, South Korea -- Lauding progress toward transferring wartime operationalcontrol of South Korean troops to their own country in 2012, Defense SecretaryRobert M. Gates called on the longtime US ally to assume a larger security role onthe Korean peninsula and beyond during his recent vist.

Gates told a gathering of about 150US and South Korean troops atYongsan Garrison here that he’simpressed in strides the SouthKorean armed forces have madetoward assuming the lead defenserole in their national territory. Theseefforts, along with a boldmodernization effort, have built aforce he called “poised to lead thedefense of your homeland andprotect your nation’s securityinterests around the world.”

Gates called on South Korea’spolitical leaders to invest more intheir country’s defense, at a level“appropriate to Korea’s emergingrole as a contributor to global security, and commensurate with the threat you faceon the peninsula.”

North Korea -- the impetus for the long-term US security commitment here -- hasbecome increasingly lethal and destabilizing, he said. Though North Korea still has

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Defenselink -- The OFFICIAL source of news andinformation from the Department of Defense, relatedagencies and all military branches.Multi-National Force - Iraq -- Official website ofMNF-IMulti-National Corps - Iraq -- Official website ofMNC-IInternational Security Assistance Force (ISAF) --Official website for coalition forces in AfghanistanThe Pentagon Channel -- 24-hour broadcasts ofofficial military news and information for members ofthe US Armed Forces through select stateside cablesystems, and overseas via American Forces Network(AFN). My AFN.mil -- American Forces Network (AFN)provides multi-channel, broadcast-quality radio andtelevision services and expanded internal informationproducts to all DoD members and their families

become increasingly lethal and destabilizing, he said. Though North Korea still hasthe capacity, although degraded, to strike south of the demilitarized zone, henoted, that threat pales in comparison to current developments that “threaten notjust the peninsula, but the Pacific Rim and international stability as well.”

“Today, it is North Korea’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and proliferation of nuclearknow-how and ballistic missile weapons and parts that have focused ourattention,” Gates told the audience. “We do not today, nor will we ever, accept aNorth Korea with nuclear weapons. We will work, as an alliance and with otherallies and partners, for the complete and verifiable denuclearization of NorthKorea.”

Gates reiterated the US commitment to using the “full range of American militarymight” to provide extended deterrence. This includes everything from the nuclearumbrella to conventional-strike and missile-defense capabilities, as well as thecontinued U.S. military presence in South Korea.

But meanwhile, he added, the US-South Korean alliance needs to continue toevolve to stand up to mutual security commitments, including those beyond theKorean peninsula.

Gone are the days, Gates said, when South Korea deployed forces -- in Vietnamand Iraq, for example -- seemingly as a gesture for the United States.

“Going forward, Korea’s international military contributions should be seen as whatthey are: something that is done to benefit your own security and vital nationalinterests,” he said. “The will and the ability of the Republic of Korea to actregionally and globally are entirely consistent with your obligation to lead thedefense of this peninsula.”

Some Sailors puzzled over new GI BilltransferabilityStory by MC1(AW) LaTunya HowardNavy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, TN -- According to an online poll conducted by Navy PersonnelCommand, Sailors still don't quite understand how the Post-9/11 GI Billtransferability option works.

Sixty-two percent of Sailors who responded thought they could wait until afterretirement to transfer benefits to their children.

"Based on the calls that we're receiving, we're worried that the perception is outthere that you can wait until you retire to transfer your benefits and that's not thecase," says Kathy Wardlaw, Navy active duty GI Bill program manager. "You haveto do it before you leave the Armed Forces."

Sailors with 90 days of active duty service after September 11, 2001, have earnededucation benefits under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of2008, with no buy-in costs. This benefit can now be transferred to family membersshown in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System.

The first thing Sailors can do is read NAVADMIN 203/09, which provides therequirements for transferring Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.

"Normally an enlisted member needsto check with their career counselorbecause there will be an obligationrequired," said Wardlaw. "Sailors willneed to obtain the obligation througheither re-enlistment or extension.Officers can sign a Page 13, and theyneed to see their administrative officer

CDR H.B. Le assumes command of the Arleigh

Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS

Lassen (DDG 82), during a change of

command ceremony in April at Fleet Activities

Yokosuka.

- Photo by MCSN Charles Oki

products to all DoD members and their familiesstationed overseas, on contingency operations, andonboard Navy ships around the world.Military Homefront -- A DoD Web portal for reliableQuality of Life information designed to help troops andtheir families, leaders and service providers. Whetheryou live the military lifestyle or support those who do,you'll find what you need!myPay -- myPay allows you to manage your payinformation, leave and earning statements (LES), W-2s and more...putting more information and servicesat your fingertips. Brought to you by the DefenseFinance and Accounting Service (DFAS).TRICARE Portal -- Information you need about yourTRICARE health benefits. Includes details on eligibility,plans, medical, dental and vision coverage. Alsodetails on TRICARE operations, guidance, manualsand policy.Stars & Stripes -- The DoD-authorized UNOFFICIALdaily newspaper for US Forces overseas, printed inEuropean, Pacific and Mideast editions. Department of Defense Educational Activity(DoDEA) -- DoDEA operates more than 218 publicschools for grades K-12 in 14 districts located inseven U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Guam and 12 foreigncountries to serve the children of military servicemembers and Department of Defense civilianemployees.Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) --The military's largest retailer. A mission-essential, andthe premier quality of life provider for all DoD militarymembers, civilians, contractors and their familiesworldwide.Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) -- Deliveringthe premier quality-of-life benefit to military membersworldwide.United Service Organizations (USO) -- The USOsupports U.S. troops and their families wherever theyserve. Across the United States and around the world,the American military knows that the USO is there forthem. Until Every One Comes Home.Space Avaliable Travel fact sheet -- Answers to themost common Space A travel questions, courtesy ofthe 60th Air Mobility Wing, Travis AFB, CA.

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need to see their administrative officerto do that."

Sailors need to ensure that theirobligated service is reflected in their electronic service record before their requestfor transferability will be processed. A four-year obligation is required for thetransferability option.

Since July 2009, 12,000 Sailors have taken advantage of this relatively neweducation benefit option. This is below the estimated 15,000 the Navy GI Bill officeexpected.

"I have a nineteen-year-old currently attending Mississippi State University," saidVicky Gallagher, a Navy Reservist. "It's an out-of-state college, and it's expensiveto pay that bill as a single parent on one income. With tuition, books and housing,I'm saving nearly $12,000 annually. This money is going to help me quite a bit."

For more information on the Post-9/11 GI Bill transferability program, readNAVADMIN 203/09 or visit the Post-9/11 GI Bill page at npc.navy.mil.

Navy ship commanded by former refugee tovisit VietnamCommander 7th Fleet Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan -- A refugee picked up as a young boy off the coast ofVietnam by a US Navy vessel will return to his birth country next month as anAmerican naval officer in command of a warship.

Commander Hung Ba "H.B." Le will visit Vietnam in November with his ship, theguided-missiledestroyer USS Lassen(DDG 82). Lassen is the first USNavy warship to be commanded by aVietnamese-American.

Le and his family left Vietnam in1975 during the final days of theVietnam conflict. The goodwill visitby his ship will mark the first time Lehas been back to Vietnam since heleft the country at the age of five.

"My crew and I are proud to be ableto represent our country to thepeople of Vietnam," said Le. "Thisvisit is a symbol of the friendshipbetween our two nations, and we aredeeply honored to be a part of it."

- Photo by MCSN Charles Oki

If you operate a Navy-oriented website and interestedin trading links with NTWS, please contact our LinksManager at links@navy.togetherweserved.com.Include your URL, up to 100 words describing yourwebsite, and a 468x60 website banner in JPEGformat, if available.

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Recently left the Navy? Lookingfor a new post-military career, orplanning on going "in a differentdirection" from your presentcivilian job?

Welcome to the NTWS JobBoard which is on the left hand

Home Page just as you log into NTWS and containshundreds of job positions!

All positions, described in detail, are posted by fellowNTWS Members who are familiar with the credentialsand experience offered by former Shipmates.

Here is just a small sample of the many new jobsrecently posted:

Position Offered: Bus OperatorLocation: Philadelphia, PASalary Range: $45K

Position Offered: Emergency Services DispatcherLocation: RI, CT & PASalary Range: $29K-35K +benefits

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Position Offered: Clinical Research NurseLocation: Atlanta, GASalary Range: TBD

Position Offered: Public Affairs SpecialistLocation: Wallops Island, VASalary Range: TBD

Position Offered: DVA Police OfficerLocation: Leavenworth, KSSalary Range: $30K-44K

Position Offered: Truck Driver (18-wheel)Location: Orlando, FL

deeply honored to be a part of it."

Le was born in Vietnam's ancient capital city of Hue. On May 2, 1975, Le and hisfamily were picked up at sea by the amphibious landing ship USS Barbour County(LST 1195). Le's family immigrated to the US, settling in northern Virginia, wherehe became an American citizen in April 1985. Le went on to attend the US NavalAcademy, where he graduated with merit in 1992 with a Bachelor of Sciencedegree in economics and was commissioned as a US Navy officer.

"This will be an incredible experience for me personally, to return to the land ofmy birth for the first time since I was a child," Le said. "My memories of Vietnamare very few, yet I still feel very drawn to it, to its culture, and to its people."

Le assumed command of USS Lassen and its crew of nearly 300 in April. The shipis forward deployed to Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, as part of the US 7th Fleet.

The port locations and dates of USS Lassen's visit to Vietnam will be announced ata later date.

Download Iraq and Afghanistan maps here.You must have Adobe Reader to view the documents. Download Adobe Reader here.

RECRUITING GOALS MET OR EXCEEDED

Services Show Record Recruiting YearStory by Gerry J. GilmoreAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON -- The military services’ active and reserve components notchedrecord recruiting numbers and signed up the highest-quality recruits ever in fiscal2009, senior defense officials said today.

It is the first time that all active services and reserve components met or exceededtheir numerical recruiting goals and exceeded their recruit-quality benchmarkssince the start of the all-volunteer force in 1973, Bill Carr, deputy undersecretaryof defense for military personnel policy, told Pentagon reporters.

While Carr acknowledged that the current economic downturn probably is having apositive effect on recruiting, he alsopointed to the sterling efforts of militaryrecruiters for the superb results and notedthe military deployed a robust bonusprogram in which 40 percent of recruitsreceived an average bonus of $14,000.

The recruiting success achieved in fiscal2009 is even more impressive, Carr said,considering that 70 percent of today’s highschool graduates – the military’s targetrecruiting pool – go on to college upon graduation. In the 1980s, he noted, onlyabout half of American high school students went on to college.

A rising propensity for young people age 17 to 24 to be obese, Carr said, alsocomplicates the military’s recruiting mission.

Location: Orlando, FLSalary Range: TBD

Position Offered: Systems EngineerLocation: Lafayette, LASalary Range: $48K-72K

To view additional job postings, please check our newJob Board in the LEFT-HAND column of the NTWSHome Page.

Post a Job on TWS!If you've had success with finding employees, orlocating employment on the TWS Jobs Board, pleaselet us know! This is a valuable FREE service to allTWS Members and employers and we're alwaysinterested in hearing your success stories. Pleaseemail TWS Admin with the details: admin@navy.togetherweserved.com

Help more Shipmates reconnect! Hand out ourInvitation Cards to other Sailors you know and earnFull Membership Credits -- 6 months of FullMembership for every 5 Sailors who join from yourinvites and complete their Profile (be sure to enteryour member number on each card).Click here to order. To print out your own invite cards,click here.

TWS supports the mission of the Real WarriorsCampaign initiative

and the National Suicide Prevention HelplineBECAUSE ONE SUICIDE IS ONE TOO MANY...

National Suicide Prevention LifelineFor Crisis Intervention

complicates the military’s recruiting mission.

“If we look back to the 1980s, one in 20 young people were obese,” Carr said, ascompared to today’s ratio of 1 in 4 young people being categorized as obese. “And,that creates a tighter constraint as you seek to find fully qualified recruits,” headded.

However, he said, the number of waivers issued to recruits with medical orconduct issues is trending downward.

Here are the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force recruiting results for fiscal2009:

-- The Army had 70,045 accessions, making 108 percent of its 65,000 goal.-- The Navy had 35,527 accessions, making 100 percent of its 35,500 goal.-- The Marine Corps had 31,413 accessions, making 100 percent of its 31,400 goal.-- The Air Force had 31,983 accessions, making 100 percent of its 31,980 goal.

Reserve-component recruiting results for fiscal 2009:

-- The Army National Guard had 56,071 accessions, making 100 percent of its 56,000goal.-- The Army Reserve had 36,189 accessions, making 105 percent of its 34,598 goal.-- The Navy Reserve had 7,793 accessions, making 101 percent of its 7,743 goal.-- The Marine Corps Reserve had 8,805 accessions, making 122 percent of its 7,194 goal.-- The Air National Guard had 10,075 accessions, making 106 percent of its 9,500 goal.-- The Air Force Reserve had 8,604 accessions, making 109 percent of its 7,863 goal.

Attrition losses in all reserve components areamong the best in recent years, officials said.

Carr also attributed current recruiting successto the “Millennial” demographic of youngpeople that includes those born between 1978and 1996. Generational studies show, he said,that these young people – who’ve lived duringthe Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the

United States – are more inclined to perform public service.

Additionally, Carr said, Congress continues to provide the Defense Department withsufficient funding to sustain the all-volunteer force.

Studies also show that young people can make a good living in the military, Carrsaid, as compared to their civilian peers with equitable workplace experience andeducation qualifications. Generous pay raises provided to junior officers and mid-level noncommissioned officers in recent years, he noted, have boosted thoseservicemembers’ earning capacity.

“It has been a banner year for recruiting,” Curtis L. Gilroy, director of accessionpolicy, told American Forces Press Service and Pentagon Channel reporters duringan Oct. 9 interview at the Pentagon.

Gilroy, too, saluted the “outstanding” performance of the services’ militaryrecruiters. His directorate is a component of the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Fiscal 2009’s crop of recruits alsorepresents the best quality ever, Gilroysaid, noting 96 percent of active-dutyrecruits and 95 percent of reserve-component recruits possessed a highschool diploma. The Defense Departmentbenchmark for recruits with high schooldiplomas is 90 percent. Studies show, he

1-800-273-TALK(8255) Press "1"

MEMBER COMMENTSThis is just a sample of some of the comments wereceive at TWS on how we help reconnectSoldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Guardians.

I HAVE...found several. Also a couple who have passed awaythat I didn't know about. Thanks.- MSgt. Gerald (Jerry) Lamirand

GREAT SITE!I have only been a member for about a week andhave already connected with several old buddies.Great site! Thanks for starting this site; just a trialmember, but will join full membership by the end ofthe week.- SGT Chris McDonald

ONE!Yep, through this website I found a guy I wasstationed with while in Washington state back in theearly 70s. He eventually retired from the Coast Guard.Was really nice to hear from him again.- Special Agent (AFOSI) Tony Tidwell

LOST & FOUNDWas able to connect with a buddy I have not seensince '82. Good memories. Thanx ATWS!- SGT Randy Greenlee

I TOO...found a friend I haven't seen since 1972 because ofthis site. Thanks TWS!- SMSgt. Michael Kierdrowski

So what's missing here? YOUR experiences inreconnecting with fellow Shipmates! We need to

hear more of YOUR TWS reconnect successstories. Post yours in the "Shipmates FoundSuccess Stories" header in the MESS DECKS

forum or drop a line toadmin@navy.togetherweserved.com!

added, that 80 percent of servicememberswith high school diplomas complete their initial term of service.

Gilroy said 73 percent of active recruits and 72 percent of reserve-componentrecruits scored average or above average on the Armed Forces Qualification Test.The AFQT measures an individual’s math and verbal ability, which indicatesaptitude for military service. The department sets a benchmark of 60 percent of allrecruits scoring at or above the 50th percentile on the AFQT.

“As you can see from these numbers,” Gilroy said, “the services have far exceededthose benchmarks” in fiscal 2009 for signing up recruits with high school diplomasand those with average or better AFQT scores. Increased capabilities demonstratedby the majority of the nearly 300,000 active and reserve component recruitssigned up in fiscal 2009, he added, will result in higher performance in the field andwill enhance readiness.

President Visits NAS JacksonvilleStory by MC2 Daniel Gay Navy Public Affairs Support Detachment Southeast

NAS JACKSONVILLE, FL -- President Barack Obama visited Naval Air StationJacksonville to meet with and deliver remarks to 3,500 service members and theirfamilies Oct 26.

"It is great to be here at one ofAmericas finest Naval Air Stations,"said Obama as he took thepodium.

Obama held a town hall-style rallywhere he talked about hiscommitment to the military anddiscussed the importance of military families and service.

"Military communities like this one take care of their own," said Obama. "It's notthe remarkable platforms that give the United States its military superiority… itsnot the sophisticated technologies that make us the most advanced in the world…no, we have the finest Navy and the finest military in the history of the worldbecause we have the finest personnel in the world."

During his remarks Obama also spoke about the duties and responsibilities thatmilitary members accept.

"We are a country of more than 300,000,000 Americans, but less than one percentwear the uniform," said Obama. "That one percent, you and the ones in uniformbear the overwhelming burden of our security."

Before departing the podium Obama spoke about his greatest privilege aspresident.

"Of all the privileges I have as president, I have no greater honor than serving asyour Commander-in-Chief."

After his remarks, Obama went into the crowd to meet, shake hands and signautographs amongst hundreds of servicemen and women in attendance.

As part of his visit Obama also met privatelywith a dozen of NAS Jacksonville's top Sailorsfor a few words and a personal greeting. TheSailors that met with the president said theyfelt honored to have been selected to meettheir Commander-in-Chief.

What... was your best duty station orshipboard assignment and why? What is therecipe for that wonderful dish you make fora holiday or other occasions? Do you haveany tips about keeping

healthy, or things to watch out for if youhave a disease? These are but a few of thetopics that are covered by the many Forumson NTWS. These forums provide you, themembers, a variety of places to discuss withother members the many topics we have incommon.

Those members still on active duty wouldprobably like to know about goodassignments when they make out their"dream sheets" or talk to their detailers atBUPERS. Those who have worked asdetailers might want to provide a few tips formembers in preparing to talk about theirnext assignment.

If you have a disease like diabetes, what tipscan you give others about the disease andthings to watch out for with diabetes?Encourage a shipmate on NTWS to keep ontop of a health problem so he stays with usfor a long time.

These are but a couple of topics that areavailable for you to offer advice, warn othersabout, discuss with other NTWS members, orjust vent your frustrations about. So checkout the many Forums and start a livelydiscussion about a topic that interests you!

"I am speechless," said Information SystemsTechnician 1st Class Stacey Thinn. "It was

such a great honor, he is such an inspirational person and it was just an awesomeexperience all around."

President Obama was visiting NAS Jacksonville as part of a way to personallythank uniformed service members for their sacrifice for their country.

- Photos by MCC Anthony Casullo (top) &MC1 Leah Stiles

Careers in IT Information Technology Diversity, Part 1Story by LtCol. Paul Capicik, USAF (Ret.)American Sentinel UniversitySpecial to TWS Newsletters

BIRMINGHAM, AL -- As a service member who developed a rewarding career inthe IT arena after leaving the military, I want to provide a brief overview of theincredible diversity of career options available to those of you interested in gettinginto the field of Information Technology.

Very briefly, I was a CIO and IT department manager for a medium size enterprisethat included a national headquarters, 1500+ nationwide offices, 60,000+members, and the nation?s largest fleet of single engine piston aircraft (550+).

The scope of the organization?s Information Technology program touched in-housebusiness and mission processes as well as interfacing with civilian and governmentorganizations on the national, state, and local level. It included equipmentmanagement and application interaction among ground, aircraft, and satelliteresources. And even with this wide a scale of involvement in so many aspects ofthe operation, our role touched on only a limited number of applications from thevast opportunities available in such a diverse field as Information Technology.

Due to the wide array of possibilities opento an Information Technology professional,it might be difficult for you to determinewhich degree program you want topursue. In an effort to make things a littlesimpler, we can break down the field intotwo main areas of specialization --Systems (the physical tools, instruments,and hardware that makes it all work), and

Process Applications (the software programs that perform required IT tasks andrun on the aforementioned systems). This first article will cover the Systemscategory, while my next article, Part 2, will focus on Process ApplicationDevelopment.

Systems CategoryInformation Technology practitioners working in the Systems side of the fieldtypically deal with the actual computers, networks, security systems, and therequired support networks used to run the business process applications. Systemsworkers also provide the means of connectivity among both local andgeographically disparate parts of an IT system, handling local and worldwideinformation sharing, system resources, and interfaces. Some examples ofspecialized tasks from the Systems field include:

Purchasing, setting up, and maintaining computers (including end user support)Designing, installing, and maintaining networksDatabase administrationDeveloping, deploying, and monitoring system security

Most military members serving in Information Technology roles play some part inone or more of the above tasks. And anyone who's been deployed to a new

NTWS is a place for all Sailors, living and deceased.You can post and maintain Remembrance Profiles foryour Shipmates by clicking on Remember aShipmate on the left-hand side of the Home Page.This allows you to remember a Fallen, Deceased,MIA/POW, Unlocated Sailor/Aviator or to create anAssisted Profile for a living Sailor/Aviator who isunable to post their own profile.

OBAMA MEETING - President Barack Obama meetswith Army GEN Stanley McChrystal, chief of US andNATO forces in Afghanistan, aboard Air Force One inCopenhagen, Denmark.- White House photo by Pete Souza

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELANDSECURITY- President declares major disaster for Territory ofAmerican Samoa - Statement on American Samoa from FEMAAdministrator- FEMA update on Federal preparedness &response efforts in the Pacific- SECDHS, Colorado governor unveil terrorismawareness video- October is National Cybersecurity Month- CBP's Baldwin calls for partnership in fightagainst phony, pirated goods- ICE: Minnesota man sentenced on aggravatedidentity theft charges

FIRE MISSION - Marine mortarmen conduct fire

one or more of the above tasks. And anyone who's been deployed to a newlocation knows both the importance and urgency placed on completing these tasksefficiently and effectively.

Depending on the size - and budget - for the system in question, IT workers canfind themselves working on all of these functions at once, or focusing on a specificrole like monitoring and interpreting security logs to prevent or stop hackingattempts. On the Systems side of the Information Technology arena, there areoccasional requirements for coding and programming, though those functions aretypically not the primary task at hand.

Be sure to stay tuned for part two of this article, where I will explore the ProcessApplication Development category of IT. Also watch out for future updates fromboth myself and other experts in the Information Technology field. We'll beproviding a wealth of information on specific issues and general considerationsalike.

Be sure to help out fellow service members by inviting them to participate in ourforum (http://www.americansentinel.edu/blog/) either as a contributor, oranother interested reader, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us atyour earliest convenience. We'd love to hear from you!

The list of Free and Discounted Service providers on TWS continues togrow!

These are Free listings and discounts coordinated for the benefit of TWS Members,not paid advertisements.

TWS is proud to announce the addition of AFLAC benefit eligibility for TWSMembers at a discounted rate not available to the general public. This is the samecoverage available from employers nationwide, offered to you by virtue of yourTWS Membership!

Do you have a Plan B? No one likes to think about getting seriously ill or injured.That’s why it’s so crucial to have a Plan B. Your Plan B has a name: AFLAC.

Click the banner above to find out how AFLAC can protect you and your family.

Among others...

FIRE MISSION - Marine mortarmen conduct firemissions during the 24th Marine Expeditioinary Unit'sRealistic Urban Training on Camp Atterbury, PA. Theunit will use these mortarmen to support the 1stBattalion, 9th Marine Regiment in hostile areas toneutralize threats. - USMC photo by Sgt. Andrew J. Carlson

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE- Obama accepts Nobel Prize as 'call to action'- Mullen praises 'powerful legacy' at shipcommissioning- Forces reposition from Afghan outposts, targetinsurgents- USO Gala honors troops, sacrifices- Commander cites ‘steady progress’ in Baghdadas attacks drop- DoDEA schools laud 12 scholarship semifinalists

ONE SHOT - SGT Nicholas Irving, from 3rd Battalion,75th Ranger Regiment, takes aim during the"Defensive Shoot" event at Wagner Range on FortBenning, GA, during the Ninth annual US ArmyInternational Sniper Competition held earlier thismonth.- US Army photo by Vince Little

AIR FORCE- Kadena Airmen aid Indonesian recovery - CMSgtAF visits Andrews Airmen- Airmen help future Iraqi pilots learn to speakEnglish- Lifesaving USAFA cadets receive commendationmedals - DOD official: New bomb has 'important capability'- MQ-9 Reaper takes flight at Holloman- COMMENTARY: ICBMs: A strategic umbrella for50 years

MISSION COMPLETE - Afghan commandos andcoalition soldiers return to Forward Operating BaseAirborne, Afghanistan, after an air assault mission.- US Army photo by SGT Teddy Wade

Among others...

If you or someone you know provide a product or service that you are willing tooffer for Free or at a deep discount to the Sailors of TWS please let me know sothat I can add you link on the TWS Home page and possibly feature it in a futureNewsletter. Please email the link to me at admin@togetherweserved.com

...word on the street

Getting Your Reunion Notice (and noticed) inThe HOISTStory by Jon YimEditor, TWS Newsletters

SAN DIEGO -- Sooooo...your reunion group just tapped you to get the word outon the street about your upcoming get-together shindig. And you want yourannouncement to appear in our monthly newsletter.

Pull up a seat...Welcome to "How To Submit A Reunion Announcement to TheHOIST!"

We keep it simple over here at the NTWS Newsletter, folks...all you have to do isshoot us an email following this simple format:

Information WE WANT:

- WHAT is the name of the unit/organization organizing the event?

To avoid confusion or mis-identification, please SPELL OUT the name of yourreunion group, such as "USS Neversail (TFFG-1)," "H Co., 1st Bn., 135th ArmorBde" or "152nd School Training Squadron"

- WHEN is it happening?

Unless the event is in 2010 or 2011, just send us the month and the days of theevent and omit the year.

- WHERE is it being held?

Just give us the CITY and STATE; if it will be overseas, the CITY and COUNTRY; orthe name of the CRUISE SHIP and its departure date from port.

We do not publish the names of resorts, lodges, inns, restaurants, theme parks,entertainment venues or hotels.

- WHO is/are the point(s) of contact for this?

The name(s), contact email address (if available), and a phone number in thisformat example: (890) 123-4567. You can also include a website address (URL) ifyour group has one.

Also, to be fair with space and to protect privacy, WE DO NOT PUBLISH POSTALADDRESSES unless it is the only way of contact.

You can see examples of how announcements are formatted in the left-handcolumn of the REUNION ANNOUNCEMENTS section.

You only need submit your announcement details once. That's right -- ONCE.

Use the example below for your submission:

USS NEVERSAIL (TFFG-1), Dec. 23-27; Anytown, USA. Contact: Rick Recruit,(619) 555-1212, or reunion@neversail.org; website URL: www.neversail.org

As it's received, it will be published in the following issue of The HOIST, andrepeated up to the month before your event. That's plenty of time to get the wordout on the street.

On the other hand, information WE DON'T NEED:

"LOOKING FOR" POSTINGS SCANS OF ANNOUNCEMENT FLYERS ACCOMMODATION RATES, PACKAGES & TARIFFS

STARBURST MANEUVER - The USAF Thunderbirdsperform during the "Air Power over the Marianas" airshow over Andersen AFB, GU. The Thunderbirds wereone of four aerial demonstration teams that performedfor the public at the event.- USAF photo by SrA. Christopher Bush

COAST GUARD- CG hosts World Maritime Day event- Coast Guard enhances diversity outreach- Kodiak CPO receives prestigious MasterCutterman award- Hawaii CG air crew medevacs infant fromAmerican Samoa- CG recognizes Puerto Rico's US Attorney forhuman traffic fight- Station Boston teaches local kids about boats

VALLEY ISLE PARADE - Crew members from USCGStation Maui parade their gear in downtown Kahului.Station Maui Guardians joined the island's fire, oceansafety and police department officers and communitymembers for the 2009 Maui County Fair Parade.- USCG photo by Auxiliarist Larry Ankrum

MARINE CORPS- Marines vaccinated for vicious virus - Corps' last NCO Club offers networking,relaxation for 29 Palms Marines- Thousands visit flight line for 54th MCAS MiramarAir Show- MP support company celebrates its first birthdayin Iraq- JMSDF opens house to locals, MCAS Iwakunineighbors- Sierra Nevada Mountains are second home toUTG Marines- Robotics-based technology continues rise inCorps

POWERPOINT PRESENTATIONS & PDFs REUNION FEES BANQUET/CATERING MENUS PLANNED EVENTS, TRIPS, GOLF TOURNAMENTS, MEMORIALS, SHOPPINGEXCURSIONS, TOURS PHOTOS COMMAND CRESTS, SHIELDS, LOGOS LINKS TO HOTELS, RESORTS AND ATTRACTIONS

Save all that for our REUNIONS AND GET-TOGETHERS FORUM on the NTWS board.You can post expanded reunion details with all the stuff we've listed above...andwe give you lots of room to do that!

Any questions? Drop us an email, and we'll be happy to assist you.

REMEMBER: THE FURTHER IN-ADVANCE YOU SUBMIT YOUR REUNIONDETAILS, THE MORE "FACE-TIME" IT GETS IN THE HOIST!

Class dismissed...

Waiting for your educational cash?

SECVA OKs advance payments for 9/11 GI Billbennies

WASHINGTON -- Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki has authorizedadvance payments up to $3,000 for Veterans who applied for VA educationalbenefits and who have not yet received their monthly education payments. Fordetails, go to AdvancePay GI Bill site.

If you are a Veteran who has applied for one of VA’s education programs and havenot yet received your monthly benefit payment for the Fall 2009 term, you canrequest advance payment through this website, www.advancepay.gibill.va.gov.

You can also visit one of VA’s 57 regional offices* across the country toimmediately receive an advance payment. You will need to bring a government-issued photo ID and your course schedule when you visit the regional office.

The advance payments will be reconciled with future education payments owed toyou. Visit this link for advanced payment questions and answers.

If you are a Veteran-student who received an emergency check and your bank hasnot yet made your funds available, or you are a bank representative with questionsabout this process, the VA is soliciting the support of local and national banks tohonor and cash these emergency checks written to our Nation's Veteran-students.

In many cases these checks are handwritten and could pose concerns of fraudfrom banks. Therefore, VA has established the following special customer servicecall-in numbers for banks to verify the validity of any US Bank check brought tothem by a Veteran.

1-800-827-2166Banks calling this number will be connected directly to a VA employee who canaccess all necessary information to verify who the check was issued to, the checknumber and dollar amount of the check, and whether the check was previouslycashed or not.

* Please Note: Intake sites are military installations. They are not sites whereemergency checks are being distributed. Veterans are encouraged to find thenearest VA regional office in their state.

----------

SKY LIGHTS - Soldiers fire at targets against a sky litby illumination flares at the 2009 Army "Best WarriorCompetition" at Fort Lee, VA. Soldiers hailing fromcommands around the world gave their best in the six-day competition.- US Army photo by T. Anthony Bell

ARMY- Infantry, Armor linked under new command- Guard retires UH-1 Huey after 50 years of service- 2009 US Army Best Warrior highlights- 'Thank you not enough' for veterans, says FisherHouse CEO- Education key to overcome PTSD stigma- MREs no longer contain 'mystery meat' of past- Army psychiatrist: Military children haveincreased mental-health risk- Ultimate Fighting champ motivates woundedwarriors

TOP TROOPS - Army SPC Michael D. Carter, MarineSgt. Mark A. Robinson, Navy PO2 William S. Stevens,Air Force SSgt. Zachary J. Rhyner, and Coast GuardPO2 Abram H. Heller proudly display theirServicemember of the Year for their individualbranches at the 2009 USO Gala, Washington DC.- DoD photo by PO1 Chad J. McNeeley

HEAD CHECK - Sgt. Matthew Duquette of CompanyB, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, RegimentalCombat Team 3, checks his squad to see if anyone isinjured during a recent firefight in Nawa district,Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Duquette is a 23-year-old squad leader from Warrenville, IL. The

Parkinson’s Disease, two other illnesses recognized

VA extends “Agent Orange” benefits to moreveterans

WASHINGTON -- Relying on an independent study by the Institute of Medicine(IOM), Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki decided to establish a service-connection for Vietnam Veterans with three specific illnesses based on the latestevidence of an association with the herbicides referred to Agent Orange.

The illnesses affected by the recent decision are B cell leukemias, such as hairy cellleukemia; Parkinson’s disease; and ischemic heart disease.

Used in Vietnam to defoliate trees and remove concealment for the enemy, AgentOrange left a legacy of suffering and disability that continues to the present. Between January 1965 and April 1970, an estimated 2.6 million military personnelwho served in Vietnam were potentially exposed to sprayed Agent Orange.

In practical terms, Veterans who served in Vietnam during the war and who have a“presumed” illness don’t have to prove an association between their illnesses andtheir military service. This “presumption” simplifies and speeds up the applicationprocess for benefits.

The Secretary’s decision brings to 15 the number of presumed illnesses recognizedby the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

“We must do better reviews of illnesses that may be connected to service, and wewill,” Shinseki added. “Veterans who endure health problems deserve timelydecisions based on solid evidence.”

Other illnesses previously recognized under VA’s “presumption” rule as beingcaused by exposure to herbicides during the Vietnam War are:

· Acute and Subacute Transient Peripheral Neuropathy· Chloracne· Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia· Diabetes Mellitus (Type 2)· Hodgkin’s Disease· Multiple Myeloma· Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma· Porphyria Cutanea Tarda· Prostate Cancer· Respiratory Cancers, and· Soft Tissue Sarcoma (other than Osteosarcoma, Chondrosarcoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma, orMesothelioma)

Additional information about Agent Orange and VA’s services and programs forVeterans exposed to the chemical are available atwww.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentorange.

News from our allied military partnersRN chefs get Gordon Ramsay's restaurant seal-of-approvalUK Royal Navy

DUBAI, UAE -- The crew of HMS Cumberland (F85) proved that it’s not just anArmy that marches on its stomach when they were treated to a ‘flight-deckmasterclass’ by Gordon Ramsay protégé Matthew Pickop.

Over half way through their six-month deployment, some of

From left to right: Able Seaman (WS) ChrisRailton, Chef Matthew Pickop, and Able Seaman(CIS) Laura Tobbell

year-old squad leader from Warrenville, IL. TheMarines were attacked while conducting a securitypatrol in the area. They suffered no casualties afterexchanging fire with enemy insurgents for nearly twohours.- USMC photo by LCpl. John McCall

A plea for assistance to NTWSMembersI'm hoping to locate those who served at theCorona, California U.S. Navy Hospital during thewinter of 1946 through the summer of 1947. Mymemorabilia which was sent home, was destroyed bya flood, and I'd like to find someone who can sharewhat transpired at Corona.

Sawtelle Hospital in Los Angeles introducedwheelchair basketball to Corona's paraplegics inseason of 1946-47, with the Corona team going onto play California college & university teams. Thenext year after I transferred, Corona's "FlyingWheels" toured the country.

Lost memoirs include the wheelchair team beinghonored guests at a Bob Hope radio show in Pomona,with Desi Arnaz & his band as musicians, and amorale boost given by personal appearances of DocBlanchard and Glenn Davis, All-American footballplayers at the Corona Hospital gymnasium.

My duties were as gym supervisor and movieprojectionist at the base theater, serving asmember of the base basketball team and as a playeron Corona Hospital's fast-pitch softball team whichwon the Riverside City Championship in 1947.

Greatly appreciated will be any venue you canprovide to connect me with personnel who sharedany of those experiences!

Don Stowedon_stowe@yahoo.com

month deployment, some ofCumberland’s 273 strong company,joined by forces-favourite JimDavidson, gathered under Dubai’sazure skies to cook ‘al-fresco’ withthe top chef.

Logistics Officer and self-confessedfood junkie, Lieutenant CommanderWayne Middleton, 37, from Sheldonnear Birmingham originally had theidea to invite Matthew onboard. Hesaid “Cumberland’s galleys were nostranger to publicity having beeninvolved in the ITV series ‘Britain’sBest Dish’ so we thought we’d seehow they measured up against the world’s finest.”

“Knowing that we had two weeks in Dubai, I was keen to get Matthew and histeam onboard to teach us some of his team’s most famous recipes.”

Pickop, executive chef of Ramsay’s Dubai outpost ‘Verre’, confessed that hereceives many an invitation but that this was one he found impossible to refuse,his Dad having served with the Royal Navy onboard HMS Broadsword in theFalklands War. “I know what these guys go through and how hard their work is”he said, adding that, owing to the peculiarities of life onboard a warship, there wasa ‘massive difference’ to the environment in which Naval chefs worked, whencompared with life ashore.

“These guys manage to cook almost 400 meals every service,” he exclaimed.“They have so much against them…facing all sorts of challenges holding down theirNaval roles as well as being chefs – plus they have to solely with the ingredientsthey have for long periods of time.”

As Matthew was to discover, catering for nearly 300 individuals on a thrice-dailyschedule is no mean feat. Keen to demonstrate their talent before Matthew gotcooking himself, Cumberland’s chefs, led by Petty Officer Darron Knowles, pulledout the stops to lay on a bespoke feast of scallops on an avocado tortilla, roastedfillet of beef and home-made treacle tart. “We were keen to give Matthew and histeam the very best that the Navy had to offer,” Darron noted. “After all, my teamand I train for 30 weeks to gain a place in a galley warmer and busier than moston dry land!”

As Matthew ate with Cumberland’s Commanding Officer, Captain David DuttonOBE, the remainder of his brigade sat alongside the Captain’s own team in theWardroom. Later, Matthew described his experience as “filled with inspirationalpeople, fantastic hospitality and stunning food to boot.

"I have met such a greatbunch of people, who notonly do an amazing job indifficult circumstances, butwho welcomed with openarms a team of people theydid not know, as if they were

related. The guys and girls onboard HMS Cumberland are not only a credit toCaptain Dutton, but a credit to The United Kingdom and Her Majesty's service.”

On the flight deck, two of the volunteer chefs for the day were AB(Communications and Information Systems) Lauren Tobbell, 21, from CountyDurham and AB (Warfare Specialist) Chris Railton, 18, from Darlington who wereshown how to cook Verre’s signature chocolate fondue. AB Tobbell, who claims hersignature dish as ‘a shepherd’s pie to die for’ said that although she had never had

'BRATS' tell their storyStory by Airman Matthew Varga82nd Training Wing Public Affairs

SHEPPARD AFB, TX -- It's often said that whensomeone joins the military, they aren't the only onesserving. Husbands and wives offer support, butrecently another group gained recognition when anorganization produced a film telling the story of militarychildren.

Operation Military BRAT presented the movie"BRATS: Our Journey Home" earlier this month atHirschi High School in Wichita Falls, TX. It is the firstfilm to document growing up in the military. The freescreening of the film is part of a 50-city nationaloutreach tour.

"'BRATS: Our Journey Home' is the first nonfiction filmabout this little-known American subculture," saidTimothy Wurtz, co-producer of the film. "It is based onseven years of research that is now the largestqualitative database on the long-term effects ofgrowing up in the military."

Brat, which is a time honored reference to militarychildren based on the acronym "British regimentalattached traveler," are oftentimes forgotten amongstthe rest of the military.

They're merely thesilent followers oftheir parents andtheir travels aroundthe globe, saidDonna Musil, writer,director andproducer of the film.

Military brats makeup an estimated 5percent of theAmericanpopulation,according to the Operation Military BRAT Web site.Cumulatively, there are more than 15 million adultmilitary brats. Currently there are some 1.5 millionmilitary brats spread across the globe.

"We need to know where we're from and who we are,and that's part of why I decided to make this movie,"

signature dish as ‘a shepherd’s pie to die for’ said that although she had never hada chocolate fondue before, she would ‘definitely be cooking one for her family’when she got home.

Railton, who admitted a culinary prowess limited to the ‘fish finger sandwich’ saidthat the experience had ‘really inspired’ him to get cooking. “I’ve never actuallycooked anything in my life,” he said. “Now, I’m pretty sure if you put theingredients in front of me I’d be able to hold my own!” Both added that what theywere most looking forward to was the familiar taste of home-cooked food on theirreturn.

Summing up his experience onboard, Pickop noted that “the crew gave such agreat reaction to a very hot live cooking demonstration, it was not only fun todemonstrate, but great to be a part of a fun filled afternoon."

After their experience onboard, a group of 8 personnel visited Matt in the morefamiliar surroundings of Dubai Creek’s Hilton Hotel where they were treated todinner in return, cooked by themselves but under the watchful eye of Matt and histeam.

The group spent the day at Verre, cooking a variety of dishes including Pan-friedbreast of duck with orange-braised endive and a tomato gazpacho. Descibing it as‘the opportunity of a lifetime’ Lieutenant Commander Middleton and the team wereshown just how the experts do it. “It was like stepping into the set of the F-Word,”he said.

Matthew summed up the day again: “The guys who joined us for the Master classon dry land were of a mixed bunch of abilities but all of them did an amazing jobin replicating the dishes on the menu. I felt a special hand was deserved for theengineers who managed to swap their spanner for a whisk, and their overalls foran apron!”

Grant Parry, Verre’s Sous-Chef noted that “everyone put their heads down and goton with the task in hand… the interest from everyone was inspiring [and it was] apleasure to work with the guys, not only for us to show them what we do, but alsoto learn what they do on our behalf.”

The British warship, currently on Counter Piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden, calledinto the UAE for a scheduled maintenance period prior to resuming her tasking.She is due to return to her native Devonport in December.

-Photos courtesy Royal Navy, Crown Copyright

FAMILY MATTERSChairman's wife vows support for military

WORD ON THE STREET -- Deborah Mullen

(right), wife of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of

Staff Navy ADM Mike Mullen, and Sandee

Cartwright, wife of Marine Gen. James E.

Cartwright, JCS vice chairman, talk with

Sesame Street camera operator Frankie Biondo

between takes at the Kaufman-Astoria Studios

in Queens, NY. The military's top spouses were

there to support the production of a new

Sesame Workshop video aimed at helping

military children and their families cope with

the loss of a loved one.

- DoD photo by Elaine Wilson

and that's part of why I decided to make this movie,"Musil said.

Musil said she moved 12 times in 16 years and hasmoved another 19 times in the past 20 years. No oneis talking about the effect multiple moves has on brats.

"Our hope is this movie and Operation Military BRATwill raise awareness in communities across the US tothe presence of military brats in the hope theycombine their efforts to come together and help givethe children of the military some stability and a senseof belonging," Ms. Musil said.

Wurtz said the movie is designed to help familiesunderstand what it is like to grow up in the military.Understanding the situation makes it easier to helppeople.

There are very few organizations that currently take aspecial interest in acting as a safety net for militarybrats; however, they are growing.

"Adult brats, like me, are starting to speak about theissue and changes are slowly being made," Musil said.

Airman 1st Class Matthew Sharp, an 82ndCommunications Squadron airfield systemsapprentice, attended the screening and was surprisedat how well the film mirrored his experience of growingup in the military.

"The film really depicted how it is to grow up withparents in the military," Airman Sharp said. "No onereally thinks it's a big deal, or you feel alone in theexperience. It is a cool opportunity to see that otherpeople either have gone through it or are goingthrough it."

For more information visit www.Bratsfilm.com orwww.operationmilitarybrat.org.

Chairman's wife vows support for militaryfamiliesStory by Samantha L. QuigleyAmerican Forces Press Service

NEW YORK CITY -- Deborah Mullen, wife of the nation's most senior militaryofficer, had a message for military families while on the Sesame Street TV setearlier this month: servicemembers and their families have a wealth of supportbehind them.

"I just would like to assure people that there are folks who care, who are workingdiligently to try and make it better," Mrs. Mullen said as she sat at the counter inMr. Hooper's Store on Sesame Street. "I think we can't exactly understand whatthey're going through, but we all want to make sure that we provide whatever it isthey need, whether it's resources, (or) education."

One resource military officials have had a hand in providing since the initiativebegan in 2006 is the Sesame Workshop's "Talk, Listen, Connect." The multi-mediacampaign includes two videos, which Defense Department specialists and otherexperts consulted on, that address ways for military children to handle separation,reintegration and changes in parents who return from deployment.

The third video, the taping of which Mrs. Mullen, wife of Adm. Mike Mullen,chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was on set to observe, deals with the deathof a loved one.

"I can only think that, given thetrust that children have with theSesame Street characters, that thiswill be a benefit that we will see ...make a difference," Mrs. Mullensaid. "Hopefully we will helpchildren be able to address grief inwhatever way that's right for them.

"Families deal with things indifferent ways," she added. "I thinkit's difficult to say what works forone family is going to work foranother."

Keeping families connected withother families or to militaryinstallation programs is key tohelping them deal with difficulttimes, Mrs. Mullen said.

"I think that the more isolated afamily is when they're dealing with... the separations (and) these

issues of reintegration, I think it's more difficult on families," she added. "I thinkit's important for, particularly National Guard (and Reserve) families, that they areconnected to the school where their children attend."

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates is looking at developing training to help civiliancounselors and teachers understand problems military children face, Mrs. Mullensaid.

Adding these types of resources is important as military officials continue to lookfor ways to help its children, she said.

Some programs include a recently expanded YMCA child care program and thenonprofit National Military Family Association's Operation Purple Camps, which arebeing expanded to include family retreats as well.

There are two ways in which an old friends andShipmates can contact you via the NTWS website: thefirst is via your "public" e-mail address displayed inyour Personal Details on your Profile Page; and theother is by leaving a message in your Message CenterInbox. The latter triggers an advisory e-mail, sent toyour "private" e-mail address to inform you that youhave received a message and who it's from.

Your "private" e-mail address, which is the one thatTWS uses, is contained in your Account Details at thetop of your Profile Page which you can modify at anytime. NTWS Members' "private" and "public" e-mailaddresses are usually the same. So, please regularlylog-in and update any changes to your e-mailaddresses both in the Account Detail and PersonalDetail sections of your Profile.

Email your announcement as early as possible to: editor@navy.togetherweserved.com or

ntws.editor@gmail.com.

EDSALL CLASS DE Veterans Day ceremony &reunion. Hosted by USS KOINER (DE/DER 331/WDE431) , Nov. 9-11; Galveston TX. Contact: Mac Christy,(785) 255-4368 or machief@hughes.net

USS CHARLES R. WARE (DD-865) , Nov. 11-15;Cape May, NJ. Contact: John Bailey, (609) 884-0431,or johnnyb@dandy.net

2010 GATHERINGS:USS GREENLET (ASR-10), Mar. 20-21, 2010; siteTBA. Contact: AJ Phillips, (479) 967-9394, orpimk@suddenlink.net

USS MEDREGAL (SS 480), Apr 17-20, 2010;Portland, OR. Contact: Ron Bell, (360) 254-4564, orrjmbell@aol.com

PATROL SQUADRON 90 (VP-90), Apr. 23-25, 2010;NAS/JRB Fort Worth, TX. Details @ www.vp-90.com

USS PONCHATOULA (AO-148/TAO-148/AOG-38),May 2-7, 2010; Ponchatoula, LA. Contact: RodgerSmith, (301) 530-1915, or Tworms43@hotmail.com

USS POWER (DD-839) 14th Shipmates Reunion(1945-1977 crews), May 15-19, 2010; Chattanooga,TN. Contact: John Pinto, (352) 527-2352,loosecannon839@yahoo.com

USS WHITE PLAINS (AFS-4), May 27-June 1, 2010;

being expanded to include family retreats as well.

"When I speak with families, particularly families whose loved one has returnedfrom a deployment, they really talk in positive terms about family retreats, howimportant it is to bring the family back together to try and regain some normalcy,with the understanding (that) everyone will have changed," Mrs. Mullen said. "Itdoesn't matter where the deployment is, how long it is, whether or not it was in awar zone."

Mrs. Mullen also noted the new Military Child and Adolescent Center of Excellenceat Madigan Army Medical Center in Fort Lewis, WA, is available for militaryfamilies. The center focuses specifically on families of servicemembers withmultiple deployments and those who come home wounded, she said.

"They're working very hard to try and help and also to let the families of thosewho have lost someone, the surviving families (know) that we will never forget,that we will always be there, and that we will work diligently to make sure thatthey're OK," she said.

From the archives of the US Naval InstituteADM Paul Yost, USCG (ret.)

Then-CDR Paul Yost recounts his experiences in getting Vietnamese Marines to safety and outfrom under enemy fire.

He says, "When a warrior before he gets into combat always wonders, when I come under firewhat am I gonna do? Now you're gonna know. Now you're gonna know what you're made of."

OFF DUTY

Take steps now to avoid Holiday debtStory by Elaine WilsonSpecial to TWS Newsletters

In my early 20s, I was high on pre-approved credit card applications andseemingly no-strings-attached loans. I charged with a blissful abandon and let the resultant bills pile up in the corner ofmy rickety side table. Every now and then I’d glance over at the dusty stack, butcouldn’t bring myself to touch it, let alone open the envelopes stamped with

USS WHITE PLAINS (AFS-4), May 27-June 1, 2010;Washington DC. Contact: (801) 985-3665, or AFS-4@comcast.net

USS VREELAND (FF 1068), June 10-13, 2010; NewOrleans, LA. Contact: Mark Smith,mlsmith100000@aol.com, or (817) 454-5051

PATROL SQUADRON 47 (VP-47) 62nd AnniversaryReunion, June 16-20, 2010; Oak Harbor (WhidbeyIs.), WA. Contact: James "Soupy" Campbell,blandjcampbell@aol.com, (360) 679-3697, or web:www.vp-47reunions.com

USS SAMUEL GOMPERS (AD-37), Oct.1-3, 2010;Reno, NV. Contact: Mary Snider,mary@samuelgompersreunion.org, or (510) 520-3047

The NTWS profile pages are very detailed, so we'vecreated a list of tips and pointers to help you navigateand use the features of the site more easily.

You may visit the "Member Assistance" section at thebottom left of the Home Page under the "Home" tab ore-mail profilehelp@navy.togetherweserved.com forassistance.

Canadian Navy (CN) - www.navy.forces.gc.ca/Royal Australian Navy (RAN) - www.navy.gov.au/Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) - www.navy.mil.nz/Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) -www.mindef.gov.sg/Philippine Navy (PN) - www.navy.mil.ph/Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) -www.mod.go.jpRoyal Thai Navy (RTN) - www.navy.mi.th/Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) - www.navy.mil.krUK Royal Navy (RN) - www.royal-navy.mod.uk/Israel Navy (IN) - www1.idf.il/Federal German Navy (Bundesmarine) -www.marine.de/ (German only)Irish Naval Service (Seirbhís Chabhlaigh nahÉireann) - www.military.ieFrench Navy (Marine Nationale) -www.defense.gouv.frItalian Navy (Marina Militare) - www.marina.difesa.it/(Italian only)Spanish Navy (Armada Espanola) -www.armada.mde.es/

couldn’t bring myself to touch it, let alone open the envelopes stamped withincreasingly urgent late notices.

My consumer frenzy came to an end when the applications quit coming and the billcollectors started calling. Overwhelmed by the thought of a penniless future, Iopted for the bankruptcy route, a path I regretted taking for the next 10 years.

It took me more than a decade to rebuild my financial standing and I’ve becomevery protective of it, flaws and all. But each holiday season, I feel like my makeshift financial life raft is about to sinkagain. Not surprising since it’s overloaded with Thanksgiving feasts, Christmasdecorations and gifts, holiday parties and plane trips to see family and friends.

I start out with the best of intentions. I carefully set a budget, assign an amount toeach person’s gift, and save all receipts to keep track. And each year, I throw allcaution to the wind sometime after the turkey leftovers are gone and shortlybefore the caroling begins.

That impulse is common, experts say. It’s all too easy to get caught up in theholiday frenzy and then feel the pain of the spending hangover later on. But it’s definitely possible to weather the holiday storm without getting blownaway, particularly for our military families who have excellent financial resources attheir fingertips.

I did some research on Military OneSource and it turns out I was on the righttrack with the idea of a budget, although I frequently veered off course. Animportant step to avoiding massive holiday debt is to set a holiday budget, the sitesays. First, figure out how much you’ll be spending for gifts, entertaining, travel anddecorating:

– Gifts: Figure out who you want to buy gifts for including teachers, mailmen andco-workers. Then set a price limit for each gift. Don’t forget to add in the cost ofshipping and wrapping paper, OneSource advises, or you could be underestimatingthe expenses.

– Entertaining: If you’re having a party, estimate how much it will cost. Don’tforget to add in the cost of bringing dishes to other people’s events. You can cutcorners in this area by having a potluck or a cookie swap rather than providing allof the food yourself, OneSource says. – Travel: Figure out how much you’ll be spending on transportation, including gas.

– Decorating: Estimate how much you’ll spend on holiday decorations. I’d checklast year’s holiday bins before hitting the department stores. I bet you’ll besurprised by how much you already have that you forgot about.

After you tally up the estimates from these areas, figure out if the total is morethan you can afford. If it is, then find areas within the categories where you cancut back. Here are some budget-conscious tips I found on Military OneSource tohelp:

– Set expectations with friends and family. Let them know if you’ll be cuttingback on the number of gifts or how much you plan to spend. This is especiallyimportant for children, who often have unrealistic expectations about gifts.

– Cut back on the number of gifts you buy. If you have a large family orgroup of friends, ask if they’d like to draw names out of a hat and give one giftper person. Or give family gifts, such as a board game, a “movie night” with giftcertificates to a video rental store and snacks, or passes to a local museum.

www.armada.mde.es/Swedish Armed Forces/Navy (Marinen) -www.mil.se/Indian Navy (Bharatiya Nau Sena) - indiannavy.nic.in/

Please forward this link to other Sailors you know, andyour friends and family!

http://navy.togetherweserved.com/usn/newsletter2/38/newsletter.html

As NTWS continues to grow, so does its potential tofind old Shipmates and new friends; as well ascreating a vibrant and enjoyable Naval Communityrepresenting all eras, from WWII to present-day.

certificates to a video rental store and snacks, or passes to a local museum.

– Consider giving homemade gifts. There are many heartfelt, thoughtful giftsthat don’t come with a sales receipt. You could cook some treats; put together aphoto album; make a themed gift basket full of smaller items, like tea, paperbackbooks or gardening tools; or give the gift of your time. – Be sure to use your Exchange. In addition to the usual tax savings and price-matching benefit, you’ll find special holiday discounts.

– Make a shopping plan. Don’t head out to the mall without a specific list of giftideas. This is how you end up spending more than you budgeted for. Look throughcatalogues or on Internet sites for ideas and create a list before you even stepfoot in a store. – Look for bargains. Try to buy several things from one catalogue or Internetsite to save money on shipping, or better yet, look for sites that offer freeshipping. – Cut back on mailing expenses. If you always send gift boxes or holiday cardsto loved ones far away, think of ways to save on or eliminate shipping costs thisyear. Buy magazine subscriptions or send online gift certificates instead ofshipping gifts. And be sure to mail things early so you don’t have to pay extra forfast shipping.

– Make careful travel plans. If your holiday plans include a trip, be sure toinvestigate all of your options as early as possible. For example, can you driveinstead of fly? Stay with a friend or relative instead of in a hotel room? Spend timelooking for the lowest-price ticket. You can save a lot of money by flyingimmediately after the holidays rather than before.

– Use your credit card wisely. Be very careful about using your credit card topay for holiday expenses. Don’t use your card unless you know you can pay if offright away. You don’t want to start the New Year off with an oversized credit cardbill.

Once you’ve set a budget and cut corners, then it’s time to start saving. Set asidesome money each paycheck or find a layaway program you can pay off inincrements.

With a little belt-tightening and number crunching, you’ll make it through theholidays debt hangover free. I know that’s my goal this year.

If you have any tips for holiday saving, don’t hesitate to share.

Please send any comments, quality improvement suggestions or story ideas to:editor@navy.togetherweserved.com or ntws.editor@gmail.com.

Jon Yim - Editor

Sincerely, The NTWS Administration Teamhttp://navy.togetherweserved.com

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