RAO Bulletin Update
1 March 2008
THIS BULLETIN CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES
== GI Bill [18] ------------------------------ (Amended Bill)
== Tricare User Fee [22] ------------------------ (Pharmacy Copays)
== Tricare User Fee [23] ------------------- (SASC Rejects Increase)
== Tennessee Vet Home [01] ----------------------- (DOJ Findings)
== Iowa Veterans Home [02] ------------ (Expansion Programmed)
== VA Rating Schedules [02] ----------------- (HVAS Conclusions)
== Mobilized Reserve 27 FEB 08 --------------- (Net Increase 786)
== California Taxes ------------------------------------- (Summary)
== Filipino Vet Inequities [08] ------------- (Dual US/RP Pensions)
== IRS Audit -------------------------------------------- (Don't Panic)
== Economic Stimulus Package [03] -------------- (6 Steps to take)
== VA Vet Centers [04] ------------ (Additions ahead of Schedule)
== Seniors Benefit Checkup ---------------- (Additional Assistance)
== Social Security Taxation [04] -- (Other Income Considerations)
== Combat Veteran Health Care [02] ---------------- (5 Year Limit)
== Agent Orange Stateside Use ---------------------- (30 Locations)
== Falcon Loan Program ----------------------------- (Loan to $500)
== Burial at Sea [02] --------------------- (Obtainment)
== VAMC Martinsburg MD ----------------- (Meal Policy Change)
== VA Category 8 Care [04] ------------------------ (Policy Review)
== Congressional Hearings -------------------------- (About to Start)
== Missing in America Project -------- (Abandoned Vet Cremains)
== VA Burial Benefit [01] ----------------- (Inform your Relatives)
== Retired Army Pin ------------------- (Lapel Button Replacement)
== Retiree Wearing of the Uniform ---------------------- (Guidance)
== Retiree Appreciation Days [01] ------------------- (Updated List)
== COLA 2009 ----------------------------------------- (Up 1.5% YTD)
== Tricare Uniform Formulary [24] ----- (Change Announcements)
== VA Agent Orange Claims [03] --------- (USS Ingersoll DD 652)
== CHCBP [01] ------------------- (Transitional Medical Coverage)
== SBA Vet Issues [07] ---------------------------------- (PL 110-186)
== VA Veteran Support ------------------------ (Goals & Population)
== VA Rural Access [03] ----------------------- (Peake Vows Action)
== VA Rural Access [04] --------------------------- (Progress Report)
== Student Veterans of America (SVA) ---- (New Vet Organization)
== Gun Salutes --------------------------------------- (Overview)
== Philippines U.S. Troop Protest -------- (Joint Military Exercises)
== Cardiovascular Disease --------------------- (Recognize the Signs)
== Whooping Cough [01] ----------------------------- (Vaccine Usage)
== Shingles [06] ---------------------- (Vaccine Utilization)
== PTSD [17] ----------------------- (Proof Policy Change)
== Higher Education Act ------------------------ (Student Loan Rate)
== SBP Lawsuit [01] ------------------------ (Widows Win 1st Round)
== CRDP/CRSC Claim Backlog ----------------- (39,000+ Pending)
== Veteran Legislation Status 29 FEB 08 -------- (Where we Stand)
GI BILL UPDATE 18: On 28 FEB, Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) submitted his
newly amended 21st Century GI Bill (S22 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of
2007) to the Senate. This bill would give a WWII like education benefit to
veterans; meaning it would cover the education costs of any college a veteran
was able to enter. Last year the unamended bill had 32 co-sponsors but was very
expensive. As amended in this year's bill the federal government would pay the
cost of a 4 year degree in a state university and 50% of the delta between that
tuition and the tuition of institution the veteran enters. However, the
institution must be willing to provide the remaining 50% of the delta. It also
would allow cumulative entitlement for reservists serving multiple active duty
tours. On the Senate floor it was supported by 4 veterans: Senator Webb member
of both the Senate Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Committees, Senator John
Warner (R-VA) ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator
Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) member of both the Senate Appropriations and Budget
Committees and Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE). [Source: TREA Washington Update 29
Feb 08 ++]
TRICARE USER FEE UPDATE 22: According to the HayGroup 2007 Benefits
Prevalence Report raising military pharmacy copays by 100% to 400%, as
recommended in the FY2009 Defense budget proposal would put military pharmacy
benefits among the lower half of civilian plans, For generic drugs purchased in
retail pharmacies, the defense budget proposes raising the beneficiary copay
from $3 to $15. According to HayGroup, 83% of civilian employer plans charge
less than that for generic drugs, with almost 20% charging $5 or less. For
brand-name drugs in retail stores, the Pentagon proposes raising the Tricare
copay from $9 to $25. The HayGroup survey indicates that almost half of
civilian employers (45%) charge less than that. For brand-name, non-formulary
medications, the Tricare copay would rise from $22 to $45 -- more than 68% of
civilian plans charge. In fact, many civilian plans are reducing or eliminating
copays for generic drugs and medications used to treat chronic diseases like
diabetes, because studies have found that higher copays actually deter many
patients from taking medications that reduce the need for much higher-cost
procedures later in life. The Tricare copays also would exceed those offered
under many plans available to legislators and federal civilians. Most telling
of all, Wal-Mart offers over 360 medications at a copayment of only $4 to
anyone who walks in the door. Perhaps the purpose of the Pentagon-proposed fee
hikes is to push more beneficiaries to use Wal-Mart rather than their Tricare
benefit. That would certainly save the Defense Department money. But it
wouldn't make military people feel very good about their military health
coverage.
Additionally, the Administration's FY2009 budget would
deal heavy blows to Medicare and many older beneficiaries. Physician
reimbursement cuts of almost 10% originally planned for JAN 08 will go into
effect in JUL 08 unless Congress acts to reverse them, and the budget envisions
further cuts in JAN 09. The new budget would repeal annual inflation
adjustments to the income levels used to means-test Part B premiums. If
enacted, that would push more people each year into paying significantly higher
Part B premiums impacting on TFL users while at the same time reducing their
access to medical care providers willing to accept Medicare payments. This year,
the higher premiums apply to single seniors with incomes over $82,000 ($164,000
for a married couple) as opposed to $80,000/$160,000 last year. The budget
proposes freezing payment levels through FY2011 for inpatient care, skilled
nursing facilities, hospice care, and ambulance services, and a freeze through
FY2013 for home health agencies. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 15 Feb 08 ++]
TRICARE USER FEE UPDATE 23: The Senate Armed Services Committee has
rejected a Pentagon proposal to increase health insurance costs without even
seeing the details, but is now worried if there will be enough money in the
2009 defense budget to fully cover health care costs. Rejection of the proposal
to Tricare Standard and Tricare Prime costs and to raise copayments for
prescription drugs - something the Defense Department assumes will generate
about $1.2 billion in savings - was first disclosed in a 26 FEB letter from
committee leaders to the Senate Budget Committee. About $500 million of the
savings would have come from charging higher fees for military retirees under
the age of 65 and their families enrolled in Tricare. The remaining $700
million in savings would have come from higher copayments for prescriptions
filled at retail pharmacies, something that would affect active-duty family
members, reservists and their families and retirees and their families There
also would be a modest fee for older retirees covered by the Tricare for Life
plan The letter, signed by committee chairman Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., and
ranking Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona, asks the budget committee to
provide $611.1 billion in new budget authority for the Defense Department for
fiscal year 2009, which begins 1 OCT 08. This is the amount requested by the
Bush administration, and includes $70 billion in a so-called bridge fund that
would partly cover the 2009 costs of continued military operations in Iraq and
Afghanistan.
The budget committee, chaired by Sen. Kent Conrad
(D-ND) is in the process of preparing a resolution spelling out revenue and
spending guidelines. Levin and McCain did not ask the budget committee to
increase the defense budget to make up for rejection of the $1.2 billion in
Tricare fees. But they said they are "concerned" about whether there
is enough money because the Bush budget assumes not just the fee increases, but
also the controversial transfer of $1.3 billion from the national defense
stockpile fund to cover health costs. There are a variety of ways Congress
could cover those costs, including increasing the defense budget, diverting
money for other defense programs or by using off-budget money from the war
supplemental to pay for some health care costs. Pentagon officials are not
giving up on their proposed fee increases for Tricare. David S.C. Chu, the
under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness, told the armed
services' personnel subcommittee on Wednesday that the Defense Department was
willing to modify its proposal to get it passed.
The Defense Department has not submitted details, but
Chu and other military officials said their proposal would be based on the
recommendations made late last year by the Task Force on the Future of Military
Health Care. In its report, the task force proposed some large increases. A
30-day supply of prescription drugs that now costs $3 at a retail pharmacy
would cost $15, while brand-name drugs that are now $9 would be $25. For
retirees in Tricare Prime, the military's managed care plan, family coverage
than now costs $460 a year would increase to $900 to $1,750 by 2011 under the
plan that calls for phased increases. For retirees in Tricare Standard, who now
pay no enrollment fee, the proposal would charge $5 a month for enrollment and
would change the current annual deductible of $300 to between $490-$960 by
2011, again applying income-based charges. There also would be a $10 increase
in the annual enrollment fee for Tricare for Life, the military insurance plan
for Medicare-eligible retirees. [Source: Air force times Rick Maze
article 28 Feb 08 ++]
TENNESSEE VET HOME UPDATE 01: A lack of care at the Tennessee State
Veterans Home in Murfreesboro has led to the early death and needless suffering
of veterans in the facility's care, according to a new report by U.S.
Department of Justice. The report, issued 8 FEB to Gov. Phil Bredesen by the
Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division, describes "unconscionably
poor health care" at the state's veterans nursing homes in Murfreesboro
and Humboldt in West Tennessee However, state officials have said the problems
have been remedied at both facilities since the data for the report was
collected last year. The report describes a disturbing list of problems,
citing specific instances with patients not receiving food and water, a lack of
proper pain medication, psychotropic drugs given to patients for the
convenience of staff, a lack of care for chronic conditions failure to address
dangers of falls and failure to aid patients in rehabilitation. "At
both TSVHs (Tennessee State Veterans Homes), residents have been, and continue
to be, the victims of egregious neglect from the nursing homes' failure to
provide for the most basic of human needs - food and water," the report
states. "As a result, residents have suffered and, sometimes, have died
needless and untimely deaths."
One case found to have maggots in a patient's open pressure
sore. In another, a patient whose pain was so severe he threatened suicide was
given Tylenol and there was no follow up to his mental state. In yet another, a
man in need of hospice care did not received it for five days while dying.
"We found that many residents spend their last days and hours often
suffering needless pain," the report stated. Lola Potter, a
spokeswoman for the state of Tennessee, said the veterans administration is
well aware of the problems.
"Everything in the DOJ report has been addressed - every issue," she
said. "We've made substantial changes in those homes." The
investigation of the nursing homes, which took place over the last year,
included on-site inspections of the facilities on April, May and July. Potter
said that since the most recent inspection, the management of the nursing home
has been replaced, including the administrator, nursing director and medical
director - all of whom have stronger backgrounds than the previous management.
She said the Murfreesboro home on Compton Road has made great strides improving
care through reorganization and new training for staff. She said the staff
members who deal with the residents are caring and giving individuals.
The state took over the management of the homes in 2005.
Potter said that since then, the homes have been working to improve their
quality of care. In JUL 07, the state contracted with Q Source, a
nonprofit Medicare quality improvement organization for Tennessee, to perform a
comprehensive quality assessment at each of the homes. Since their
initial report was delivered in August, Q Source has continued to provide
extensive and detailed analysis of healthcare improvements and needs in the
homes, according to a statement from the state. "These things take
time," Potter said. Potter added that no employees were disciplined
as a result of the problems outlined in the report. Twice last year the
Murfreesboro home had its ability to admit new patient suspended because of
concerns over patient care . The Justice Department report cited letters from
the state of Tennessee detailing the steps taken to correct the measures.
"The letters also set forth the state's disagreements with our
findings," the report says. "It is troubling that the state would
take issue with such basic, and serious, deficiencies that have resulted in
grievous harm to the veterans of the TSVHs." The Department of Justice
gave the state seven weeks to correct a slew of problems at the homes before
filing suit to correct the issues. The TSVH Board operates three homes, which
are all 140-bed facilities, in Murfreesboro, Humboldt and Knoxville. All
operate at an average daily census of more than 100 residents. In 2005, the
state decided to take over management of the homes after successive failures of
private management companies, which were contracted to operate the facilities.
[Source: The Daily News Journal Turner Hutchens article 28 Feb 08 ++]
IOWA VETERANS HOME UPDATE 02: Iowa has received a $27 million federal
grant to begin renovation and expansion of the Iowa Veterans Home in
Marshalltown. Gov. Chet Culver said 28 FEB the funds from the U.S. Department
of Veterans Affairs will cover expenses for the first phase of construction.
There's also $15 million coming from the state to help start the project. Among
the additions to the facility will be a 132-bed nursing home and a 60-bed
pavilion. Culver's 2009 budget includes $20 million in state money for the
final phases of construction. This facility is presently appealing a
$10,000 fine imposed by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.
According to the inspections department, the Iowa Veterans Home had documented
hundreds of medication errors at the facility in 2007. But because the facility
has 700 residents, some of whom may receive a dozen medications daily, the
overall error rate has remained well below the 5% limit imposed by federal
officials. In a follow up inspection July state inspectors visited Home,
reviewed its medication policies and practices, and declared that veterans
there were in "immediate jeopardy." Within hours, the home changed
its medication policies. [Source: AP article 28Feb 08 ++]
VA RATING SCHEDULES UPDATE 02: Medical experts, advocacy groups and
VA Department officials say VA's disability rating schedule needs to be updated
- continually - but they denied the system is so bad that it needs to be dumped
completely. A 26 FEB hearing of the House Veterans' Affairs subcommittee on
disability assistance and memorial affairs also focused on studies conducted
over the past year that point toward needed improvements not only in the
ratings schedule, but in VA's disability retirement system itself. Rep. John
Hall (D-NY) chairman of the subcommittee, said VA needs to remove archaic
criteria from the rating schedule; update psychiatric criteria to better
reflect symptoms of troops diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder; find
out why so many veterans with PTSD have been rated fully disabled; and update
neurological criteria to include new research on traumatic brain injuries.
"The VA needs the right tools to do the right thing," Hall said. VA
argued that it is already doing the right thing and has been updating the
rating schedule, though officials acknowledged they could do better. From 1990
through 2007, VA had updated 47% of the ratings schedule, but 35% of the codes
had not been touched since 1945. However, VA said it updated the codes for TBI
in JAN and is working on an update for PTSD.
The Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission (VDBC)
began looking at how service members' and veterans' disability cases were being
handled long before FEB 07, when Military Times and the Washington Post
featured stories highlighting problems in the system. Retired Vice Adm. Dennis
McGinn, a member of the commission, said VA has made very limited progress
since the group's report came out in OCT 07. "I believe the ratings
schedule needs to be clarified so it has logic from the point of view of
medicine and science. It has not progressed in the last five decades." The
VDBC found that VA compensates veterans according to the schedule in a way that
is generally adequate to offset average impairment and that the schedule does
reasonably well. But there are specific areas where VA's system does not serve
troops and veterans well, McGinn said, including those with PTSD, those
severely disabled at a young age and those granted maximum benefits because a
disability makes them unemployable. Veterans with PTSD, he noted, have much greater
loss of employment and earnings than those with physical disabilities.
McGinn recommended separate criteria on the rating
schedule for PTSD, as well as a way to compensate unemployable veterans for
lost quality of life, not just their inability to work. So-called
"individual unemployability" veterans may have formal VA disability
ratings of less than 100%, but are still rated fully disabled because of their
inability to work. The commission found that almost half of the 223,000 IU veterans
have primary diagnoses of PTSD or other mental disorders. The problem is that
if a veteran has physical disabilities that lead to a 100% disability rating,
he can still work and keep his full compensation. But a veteran who has a 100 %
disability for a mental disorder tries to work, he loses his compensation. This
could inspire a veteran to avoid seeking out vocational rehabilitation or
employment, and also implies something "suspect" about claiming PTSD
- which only adds to the considerable stigma behind the disease, said Dean
Kilpatrick, a member of the Committee on Veterans' Compensation for
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder at the Institute of Medicine. McGinn also
requested couples therapy as part of treatment for PTSD. That is important
because responding to a veteran's anger with more anger can exacerbate the
problem, while learning how to work with a spouse suffering PTSD can be part of
a cure, he said. Also, many family members deal with their own mental health
issues while living with someone with PTSD.
McGinn's group and Kilpatrick had different
recommendations as far as follow-up evaluations for people with PTSD. Again,
other disabilities are not re-examined, so an exam puts those with mental
disabilities in a separate class. But McGinn's group sees follow-ups as a way
to encourage vets to seek further treatment. Kilpatrick said the exam for PTSD
is also key. Examiners need to be carefully trained in how to diagnose and rate
PTSD, and the exam should take up to three hours, rather than the 20 minutes that
the Institute of Medicine found is often the case with veterans. Sidney
Weissman, a member of the American Psychiatric Association, said it is critical
for VA to repeat and update the training so that the way veterans are rated is
standardized - rather than veterans in Ohio, for example, receiving higher
ratings for the same symptoms than veterans in Texas. Brad Mayes, director of
VA's Compensation and Pension Service, said VA has a five-part plan for
updating the schedule: A study to look into the matter, hiring and training
staff, finishing revisions that are under way, creating a review process, and
looking at the possibility of quality-of-life compensation. "I think
you're right on point, and we agree," Mayes told Hall. "There has to
be an ongoing, systemic approach." [Source: Air Force Times Kelly Kennedy
article 28 Feb 08 ++]
MOBILIZED RESERVE 27 FEB 08: The Army, Air Force and Marine Corps
announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 27 FEB 08 in
support of the partial mobilization. The net collective result is 786 more
reservists mobilized than last reported in the Bulletin for 1 FEB 08. At any
given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while demobilizing
others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease.
The total number currently on active duty in support of the partial
mobilization of the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 74,588; Navy
Reserve, 5,328; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 6,982; Marine Corps
Reserve, 8,773; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 343. This brings the total
National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been mobilized to 96,014,
including both units and individual augmentees. A cumulative roster of all
National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are currently mobilized, can be found
at http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Feb2008/d20080227ngr.pdf
. [Source: DoD News Release 27 Feb 08 ++]
CALIFORNIA TAXES: Veterans considering retirement in California should take
into considertion the tax burden they will be undertaking as compared to where
they presently reside. For further information, refer to the California
Franchise Tax Board or the California State Board of Equalization websites.
* Sales Taxes (* Does not include the local 1% option):
State Sales Tax: 6.25% (food and prescription drugs exempt. Tax varies
according to locality. Can be as high as 8.75%)
Gasoline Tax: * 44.4 cents/gallon
Diesel Fuel Tax: * 45.0 cents/gallon
Cigarette Tax: 37 cents/pack of 20 plus an additional surcharge of 50 cents per
pack, bringing the total to 87 cents.
* Personal Income Taxes:
Tax Rate Range: Low - 1.0 percent; High - 9.3 percent.
Income Brackets: ** Lowest - $6,622; Highest - $43,814 . (For joint returns,
the taxes are twice the tax imposed on half the income.)
Number of Brackets: 6 brackets.
Tax Credits: Single - $94; Married - $188; Dependents - $294; 65 years of age
or older - $94
Standard Deduction: Single - $3,516; Married filing jointly - $7,032
Medical/Dental Deduction: Same as Federal taxes.
Federal Income Tax Deduction: None.
Retirement Income Taxes: Social Security and Railroad Retirement benefits are
exempt. There is a 2.5 percent tax on early distributions and qualified
pensions. All private, local, state, and federal pensions are fully taxed.
Retired Military Pay: Follows federal tax rules.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept.
24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries
or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving
disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay
based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but
there is no guarantee of total protection.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not
taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to
federal or state taxes.
Military SBP/SSBP/RCSBP/RSFPP: Generally subject to state taxes for those
states with income tax. Check with state department of revenue office.
* Property Taxes: Property is assessed at 100 percent of full cash value.
The maximum amount of tax on real estate is limited to 1percent of the full
cash value. After taxes have been paid, homeowners 62 years of age and older
who earn $35,051 or less may file a claim for assistance on 96 percent of
property taxes, up to $34,000 of the assessed value of their homes. Call (800)
852-5711 or visit the California State Board of Equalization Web site http://www.boe.ca.gov/proptaxes/proptax.htm
for details. Homestead exemptions are handled at the county level. Under the homestead
program, the first $7,000 of the full value of a homeowner's dwelling is
exempt. The state has a property tax postponement program that allows eligible
homeowners (seniors, blind, and disabled residents) to postpone payments of
property taxes on their principal place of residence. Interest is charged on
the postponed taxes. For more information refer to www.sco.ca.gov/col/taxinfo/ptp/faq/index.shtml
or call (800) 952-5661.
* Inheritance and Estate Taxes: There is no inheritance tax. There is a limited
California estate tax related to federal estate tax collection.
State Tax Forms:
California State Board of Equalization www.boe.ca.gov
California Franchise Tax Board www.ftb.ca.gov
California Employment Development Department www.edd.ca.gov
[Source: MOAA 2008 Tax Guide Feb 08 ++]
FILIPINO VET INEQUITIES UPDATE 08: The Philippine Senate passed on third
reading 6 FEB a bill granting Filipino born veterans who fought in WWII
the right to receive benefits from both the Philippine and American
governments. Senate Bill 142 filed by Sen. Richard Gordon will
amend the old veteran's law that forfeits a pension from the Philippine
government to those who receive a similar benefit from the U.S. Gordon said the
bill will benefit more than half the estimated 16,000 surviving WWII veterans
or their spouses living in the Philippines. He said the P5000 monthly allowance
set by the bill would help the veterans live a more comfortably in the twilight
of their years and the imminent enactment of his bill is timely with Washington
inclined to pass similar legislation. Manila's special envoy on veterans'
affairs, retired Army major general Delfin Lorenzana has expressed optimism the
Filipino equity Bill which gives veterans in the Philippines $200 to $375
monthly, will finally become law as it will be endorsed on Capital Hill soon.
Gordon said about 142,000 Filipinos fought during the war, 60 thousand of whom
suffered through the infamous Death March in Bataan together with 10,000
Americans. [Source: LA's Ang Peryodiko Newspaper 9-15 Feb 08 ++]
IRS AUDIT: The most common form of audit from Internal Revenue
Service (IRS) is by letter. A letter audit usually comes in duplicate. It
informs the taxpayer about the problem, a time limit to resolve the problem and
a contact person for discussing the problem. The IRS can cause Americans, even
those overseas, difficulties. It can penalize and charge interest against
unpaid taxes, attach property for unpaid taxes, and impede re-entry into the US
for unpaid taxes. So if you received a notice from IRS, deal immediately with
it. Keep copies of whatever you send to the IRS. Gather records from copies
that pertain to the notice. Respond promptly to the notice. Note the name of
the auditor, badge number and subject matter of any conversation you have with
an auditor (who may not be the one listed on the notice). If you ask a tax
professional for help resolving an IRS notice, be sure to describe the problem,
send a copy of the notice, provide Power of Attorney, and sign an Engagement
Agreement. Most IRS notices are routine. A tax return has not been received or
signed. A tax payment has been improperly credited. A math error has been made.
So don't panic! [Source: The Tax Baron Report 20 Feb 08 ++]
ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE UPDATE 03: The Bush Administration
recently signed new legislation - the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 - into law
that will give more than 130 million Americans as much as $152 billion to
redistribute back into the economy. The payment amounts will equal the amount
of one's tax liability on their 2007 tax return up to $600. That amount
doubles for joint tax filers up to $1,200. For taxpayers with little or no tax
liability, but $3,000 or more in qualifying income, they may be eligible to
receive $300 (for single filers) or $600 (for joint filers). And, tax payers
with children will receive an additional $300 for each child. Taxpayers who
make more than $100,000 a year you will not receive a refund. However, not all
Americans are eligible to receive the full $600 rebate. Six things you can do
to qualify for the tax rebate are:
1.) File Your 2007 Income Tax Return - Not only may you have
a tax refund coming your way, you many also qualify for a stimulus payment
check.
2.) File Early - The IRS will send out checks through
December, but why wait? Get it in early and you are likely to receive your
stimulus payment earlier.
3.) E-file - Give yourself the convenience, speed and
assurance that your income tax return is received.
4.) Zero Income, Zero Tax and Zero Payment...Make Sure You
File - Certain qualifying individuals, including seniors, who meet this
criteria and may not typically file an income tax return, will need to file, by
filing a paper Form 1040A or Form 1040.
5.) Watch Out for Your Two IRS Notices - Most taxpayers will
receive two notices from the IRS; one explaining the stimulus payment program
and another confirming the recipients' eligibility, the amount and the
approximate time table for the payment. Save the second notice to help in
preparing your 2008 tax return next year.
6.) Vets Must File the Right Form - Veterans' benefits
recipients must file Form 1040X to list non-taxable benefits, if they have
already filed a 2007 return and received less than $3,000 in qualifying income;
or for those who are normally not required to file an income tax return, they
must report their benefits of $3,000 or more on Form 1040A or Form 1040, to
establish their eligibility.
[Source: Military.com Feb 08 ++]
VA VET CENTERS UPDATE 04: Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B.
Peake today said 27 FEB an expansion by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
of its Vet Centers, which provide readjustment counseling and outreach services
to returning combat veterans, is well ahead of schedule. In FEB 07, VA
announced it would open 23 new centers during the next two years. Fifteen
of those centers are already operational, and five others are seeing patients
in temporary facilities while finalizing their leases. The other three
facilities will begin operations later this year. When all are online VA will
reach a record 232 Vet Centers by the end of the year. Peake said,
"To support this expansion and augment the staff at 61 existing Vet
Centers, this year we are channeling a 44% increase in funding to the
Readjustment Counseling Service, which operates the Vet Centers -- nearly $50
million more than last year's budget." Vet Centers
provide counseling on employment, plus services on family issues, education and
outreach, to combat veterans and their families. Vet Centers are staffed by
small teams of professional counselors, outreach specialists and other
specialists, many of whom are combat veterans themselves.
VA's Vet Centers have hired 100 combat veterans back from Iraq and
Afghanistan as outreach specialists, often placing them near military
processing stations, to brief servicemen and women leaving the military about
VA benefits. These outreach specialists meet with returning veterans, work
through family assistance centers and visit military installations to carry the
message that VA will be there for the troops and family members after
discharge. The community-based Vet Centers are a key component of VA's mental
health program, providing veterans with mental health screening and
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) counseling, along with help for family members
dealing with bereavement and loved ones with PTSD. The 15 new Vet Centers that
are open in permanent locations are in Binghamton NY; Middletown NY; Watertown
NY; Hyannis CT; DuBois PA; Gainesville FL; Melbourne FL; Macon GA; Manhattan
KS; Escanaba MI; Saginaw MI; Grand Junction CO; Baton Rouge LA; Killeen TX; and
Las Cruces NM. Five additional Vet Centers are providing services in temporary
space while they finalize their leases: They are in Toledo OH; Ft. Myers
FL; Montgomery AL; Everett WA; and Modesto CA. The final three locations where
Vet Centers will open for clients later this year are in Berlin NH, Nassau
County NY, and Fayetteville AR. [Source: VA News release 27 Feb 08 ++]
SENIORS BENEFIT CHECKUP: As a whole, Americans are blessed compared to
people in many other countries. We are wealthy and have access to
education and quality health care. Unfortunately, many older Americans have
difficulty making ends meet. Some may be unable to pay for prescriptions or
heating. For these seniors there is help. Programs at the federal, state and
local level can provide assistance. So if you need help, visit BenefitsCheckUp
at www.benefitscheckup.org. First,
you can apply for prescription drug coverage through Medicare if you have not
already done so. Then, find more benefits programs that will help with utility
bills, food, healthcare and other needs. You can also apply for these programs
from the site. You will need to fill out a short form indicating in broad terms
your current situation. You will not need to identify yourself or provide
any location info other than your zip code and state of residence. Upon
completion you will be provided a list of benefits you are eligible for that
you are not already receiving. [Source: Tips-n-Topics 27 Feb 08 ++]
SOCIAL SECURITY TAXATION UPDATE 04: Financial advisors often recommend
that Social Security recipients delay withdrawing money from their 401 (k),
IRA, or other retirement accounts as long as possible. That way you can
enjoy the tax free growth of your investments as long as possible.
Nevertheless, there is no escaping the bruising effect of taxes on your Social
Security. If Social Security is your major source of income, chances are
your benefits aren't taxable. But if you receive other income from
retirement accounts, rental property, or other investments you could owe taxes
on 50% to 85% of your benefits. When the tax first became law in 1983 it was
sold to the public on the basis that it only affected "high income"
seniors. Yet every year increasing numbers of beneficiaries pay the tax
because the federal government does not adjust the income levels annually, as
is routinely done with income tax brackets. Today, even middle-income
seniors could be subject to the tax. Up to 50% of Social Security
benefits are taxable for individuals with incomes of $25,000 to $34,000, or
couples with incomes of $32,000 to $44,000. Up to 85% of Social Security
benefits are taxable for individuals with incomes of more than $34,000 and
couples with incomes of more than $44,000. The tax does not apply to
individuals with incomes less than $25,000, or couples filing jointly with
incomes of less than $32,000. In addition to not adjusting the income
levels, the IRS requires that you use a special formula in figuring your
"provisional income" that includes supposedly "tax free"
money, such as tax-free municipal bonds or proceeds from ROTH retirement
accounts, that's not counted for other tax purposes. If you are working and receiving
reduced benefits because you have not attained full retirement age, the added
income not only could subject your benefits to taxation, but you could forfeit
benefits should you earn more than the earnings limits. You could very possibly
wind up losing money. If you have a financial adv!
isor or
tax consultant, it's probably worthwhile to get their help calculating your tax
liability and to develop the best plan for you to take distributions from
investment accounts. Or, to calculate your own tax liability refer to IRS
Publication 915 http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p915.pdf
or call the IRS at 1(800) 829-3676. [Source: TSCL The Social Security &
Medicare Advisor Feb 08 ++]
COMBAT VETERAN HEALTH CARE UPDATE 02: Military veterans who served
in combat since 11 NOV 98, including veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, are now
eligible for five years of no cost medical care for most conditions from the
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This measure increases a two-year
limit that has been in effect nearly a decade. "By their service and their
sacrifice, America's newest combat veterans have earned this special
eligibility period for VA's world-class health care," said Secretary of
Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake. The five-year deadline has no effect upon
veterans with medical conditions related to their military service.
Veterans may apply at any time after their discharge from the military -- even
decades later -- for medical care for service-connected health problems. The
new provision, part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 signed by
President Bush on 28 JAN 08, applies to care in a VA hospital, outpatient
clinic or nursing home. It also extends VA dental benefits -- previously
limited to 90 days after discharge for most veterans -- to 180 days. Combat
veterans who were discharged between 11 NOV 98 and 16JAN 03, and who never took
advantage of VA's health care system, have until 27 JAN 11 to qualify for free
VA health care. The five-year window is also open to activated Reservists and
members of the National Guard, if they served in a theater of combat operations
after 11 NOV 98 and were discharged under other than dishonorable
conditions. Veterans who take advantage of this five-year window to
receive VA health care can continue to receive care after five years, although
they may have to pay copayments for medical problems unrelated to their
military service. Copayments range from $8 for a 30-day supply of
prescription medicine to $1,024 for the first 90 days of inpatient care each
year. [Source: VA News Release 26 Feb 08 ++]
AGENT ORANGE STATESIDE USE: News Channel 5 investigative reporter
Ben Hall says he has found the military used Agent Orange here in the United
States -- and one veteran James Cripps who spent time in the late 60's as a
game warden at Fort Gordon in Georgia says he has the health problems to prove
it. He says he was ordered to spray a herbicide he believes was Agent Orange in
the lakes around Fort Gordon to kill weeds. Agent Orange was a toxic herbicide
used by the military to thin out the jungles of Vietnam. Soldiers sprayed
millions of gallons, unaware how poisonous it was. News Channel 5 Investigates
claims it has uncovered defense department documents that prove the military
sprayed Agent Orange at Fort Gordon during the time Cripps was there. Documents
detail more than 30 locations in the United States where Agent Orange was
tested The documents show helicopters sprayed at least 95 gallons of Agent
Orange at Fort Gordon in 1967. Despite all the evidence, the VA will not
approve James Cripps disability claim denying him medical care for the
conditions he now suffers from. Donald Stephens, who is with the Disabled
American Veterans and has helped hundreds of veterans prepare their VA medical
claims said, "I would give it a ten" when asked how strong was Mr.
Cripps claim. He says there's plenty of help for veterans exposed in Vietnam,
but he believes Cripps claim would open the floodgates for veterans exposed in
the United States. Meanwhile, Cripps is on multiple medications and struggling
to pay his medical bills. And now the VA is garnishing his Social Security
checks. [Source: WTVF Nashville TN Report 25 Feb 08 ++]
FALCON LOAN PROGRAM: Airmen in a financial pinch soon will be able
to obtain an interest-free loan for up to $500. The Air Force Aid Society's new
Falcon Loan program begins 3 MAR at U.S. Air Force installations worldwide. The
money is to be used for emergency needs such as basic living expenses,
including rent, utilities, phone, gasoline and food; car repairs; emergency
travel; or medical and dental expenses, according to Air Force officials. The
Air Force is following the lead of the other services. The Navy-Marine Corps
Relief Society began offering a $300 quick loan last month. And about 18 months
ago, Army Emergency Relief began testing an express loan process called the
Commander Referral Loan. It's since been implemented worldwide, allowing
soldiers to apply for a loan of $1,000 or less. The streamlined application for
the Falcon Loan requires no budget planning, supporting documentation or first
sergeant or commander approval, according to an Air Force news release.
Applicants can download an application from at http://www.afas.org/docs/AFAS-Application-March2008.pdf
and take it along with an identification card and leave and earnings statement
to a family readiness center for processing.
Air Force officials say the loans, which must be
repaid in 10 months, are not free money. They hope that by relaxing the
loan process, they can encourage airmen to seek financial help through family
readiness centers and steer airmen away from predatory lenders and high-interest
credit card fees. Active-duty officers and enlisted are eligible for
Falcon Loans, and spouses with a servicemember's power of attorney can obtain
the loan when a servicemember is deployed. Some Air Force Reserve and National
Guard members also are eligible. The Falcon Loan complements other assistance
programs available through Air Force Aid Society and family readiness centers.
The Air Force Aid Society is the official charity of the U.S. Air Force. The
society relies on individual donations to fund its activities, as well as
repayments of existing loans and investment fund income. For more information
about the Falcon Loan, contact a family readiness center or visit the Air Force
Aid Society Web site www.afas.org,
[Source: Stars and Stripes article 21 Feb 08 ++]
BURIAL AT SEA UPDATE 02: The National Cemetery Administration cannot
provide burial at sea. Burial at Sea is a means of final disposition of remains
that is performed on United States Navy vessels. The committal ceremony is
performed while the ship is deployed. Therefore, family members are not allowed
to be present. The commanding officer of the ship assigned to perform the
ceremony will notify the family of the date, time, and, longitude and latitude
once the committal service has been completed. Individuals eligible for
this program are:
* Active duty members of the uniformed services
* Retirees and veterans who were honorably discharged
* U.S. civilian marine personnel of the Military Sealift Command; and
* Dependent family members of active duty personnel, retirees, and veterans of
the uniformed services
After the death of the individual for whom the request is being made, the
Person Authorized to Direct Disposition (PADD) should print out and complete a
Burial at Sea Request form available online at http://www.navy.mil/navydata/questions/bas-form.pdf.
Supporting documents which must accompany this request are:
1. A photocopy of the death certificate;
2. The burial transit permit or the cremation certificate; and
3. A copy of the DD Form 214, discharge certificate, or retirement order.
The Burial at Sea Request Form and the three supporting documents make up the
Burial at Sea Request package. A Burial Flag is required for all committal
services performed aboard United States Naval vessels, except family members,
who are not authorized a burial flag. Following the services at sea, the flag
that accompanied the cremains/remains will be returned to the PADD. If the PADD
does not wish to send a burial flag for the service, a flag will be provided by
the Navy for the committal service, but will not be sent to the PADD. (Note:
For deceased veterans, a burial flag can be provided at no charge from the
Veterans Administration).
Cremains must be in an urn or plastic/metal container
to prevent spillage in shipping. The cremains, along with the completed Burial
at Sea Request package, and the burial flag will be forwarded to the Burial at
Sea Coordinator at the desired port of embarkation which can be viewed at http://usmilitary.about.com/library/milinfo/blburialatsea.htm.
Prior to shipment, it is recommended that a phone call be made informing the
coordinator of the pending request. It is also recommended that the cremains
package be sent via certified mail, return receipt requested. For intact
remains specific guidelines are required for the preparation of casketed
remains. All expenses incurred in this process are the responsibility of the
PADD, who will select a funeral home in the area of the port of embarkation.
After this selection has been made and notification has been provided to the
coordinator, the casketed remains, the request form, supporting documents, and
the burial flag are to be forwarded to the receiving funeral home. The
coordinator will make the inspection and complete the checklist for the
preparation of casketed remains. It is recommended those funeral homes
responsible for preparing and shipping intact remains contact Navy Mortuary
Affairs at the Military Medical Support Office in Great Lakes, Ill., to receive
the preparation requirements. If you have any questions about the Burial
at Sea program, contact the United States Navy Mortuary Affairs office at
1(888) 647-6676, and select option 4. [Source: ABOUT.com: U.S. Military Rod
Powers article Feb 08 +]
VAMC MARTINSBURG MD: The Martinsburg Maryland Veterans
Administration Medical Center has decided to discontinue allowing veterans who
ride the DAV (disabled veterans) vans a meal on the day of their
appointments. This policy has been in effect at the VAMC for
approximately 18 years. Providing these veterans a meal was not technically
an entitlement they rated. However, funding to support this program was not,
nor did it come from VA authorized appropriations. Instead, funds were sourced
for this through the Volunteer Funds Pool. Vic Ryan Jr., Lt. Col., USMC (Ret.)
in a letter to U.S. Sen. Barbara Mikulski objecting to the change in policy
noted that, "The majority of veterans who ride these vans do so as a last
resort. Many of the veterans utilizing the van service are on extremely limited
incomes, and they do not have the luxury of having their kids or
grandkids/friends to drive them to these appointments. In fact, several of them
do not have living relatives to assist them in their time of need." No
comment has been received so far from the VA or the Senator's office. [Source:
Cumberland Times-News article 23 Feb 08 ++]
VA CATEGORY 8 CARE UPDATE 04: Veterans' groups in New Hampshire and Maine
want the federal government to ease tight restrictions preventing at least
5,000 New England veterans from getting health care benefits. Many of these
people fall into a Department of Veterans Affairs category known as Priority 8,
reserved for veterans never wounded in action and who earn more than $28,429
annually. Veterans wounded in the Iraq, Afghanistan or past wars, or who earn
less than the present income threshold, are entitled to health-care benefits,
according to VA officials. Veterans who enrolled for VA care before the current
rules took effect in 2003 are grandfathered. Changes, which were made by
the Bush administration, have been driven by Department of Defense budget cuts.
A state-level estimate of the number of Priority 8 veterans in Maine and New
Hampshire wasn't immediately available from local and regional VA officials or
the VA's Office of Policy and Planning in Washington, D.C. There are an
estimated 1.8 million veterans nationwide who are both uninsured, including
being without VA health care, according to a study by Harvard Medical School
researchers this fall. It did not specify how many of those veterans fall into the
VA's Priority 8 category. It examined data from two federal surveys from 1987
to 2004 and found the number of uninsured veterans rose from 9.9% in 2000 to
12.7% in 2004. The study also found the number of uninsured, working-age
veterans increased by nearly 300,000 between 2000 and 2004.
David Himmelstein, an associate professor of medicine
at Harvard Medical School, one of the study's authors said, "Until 2003,
veterans who earned incomes higher than the threshold and who did not suffer
any war wounds could access affordable health care from the VA with $50
co-pays. After the Bush administration made rule changes in 2003, those
veterans were shut off. I think it says to the people who are considering
military service is that the country honors the military service in words, not
deeds. It also sends a message that veterans may not get the health-care
benefits they thought they would.
Sandra Wunschel, a spokeswoman for the VA New England Healthcare System in
Bedford, Mass., which oversees the VA medical centers in all six New England
states said, "There may be as many as 5,000 Priority 8 veterans in New
England who are enrolled in the VA system... There also may be thousands of
other veterans who would fall into the category if they enrolled... Many of the
5,000 veterans earn incomes well above the threshold and don't need health-care
benefits as much as poorer veterans who earn less... Many Priority 8 vets want
VA services so they can get affordable prescription drugs from VA
doctors." Wunschel also believes some of the outcry is fueled by the
misconceptions of older World War II or Korean and Vietnam war veterans, who
may think they are entitled to free health care. "These are complicated
issues, and in our effort to educate the public, they don't always hear the
correct message," Wunschel said.
State and federal lawmakers also believe the VA needs
to change its eligibility requirements to cover more veterans. State Sen.
Joseph Kenney, R-Wakefield, chaired the N.H. Cares Veterans Legislative Task
Force, which examined the VA health care system to identify areas that need
improvement. The panel is to release it recommendations next month. Kenney, a
Marine Corps reservist who served a tour in Iraq, said he'd like to see
Priority 8 veterans have access to affordable VA benefits. Kenney said Priority
8 veterans could be permitted to enroll in the military's Tri-Care Select
health insurance like national guardsmen and reservists. U.S. Sen. Daniel K.
Akaka (D-HI) chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, held a
hearing on the issue on 13FEB. During the hearing, Veterans Affairs Secretary
James Peake said he'd be willing to review the current policy. "I do
believe that all veterans should have access to VA health care. The best way to
accomplish that is by providing VA with the funding needed to be able to keep
pace with demand," Akaka said in a statement. "Congress just provided
VA with a $6.7 billion increase in health care funding over fiscal year 2007,
so the funds are available." [Source: Citizen of Laconia Robert M.
Cook article 24 Feb 08 ++]
CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS: It's a new season of budget hearings on
Capitol Hill. The President's Fiscal 2009 budget was delivered to
Congress two weeks ago, and now the Defense Secretary and Joint Chiefs Chairman
are defending the expenses contained therein. Once they appear before the four
major committees (House and Senate Armed Services & House and Senate
Defense Appropriations), each Service Secretary and Chief of Staff will appear
to defend their portion of the budget. Finally the reserve service chiefs, to
include the Chief National Guard Bureau, will appear in front of the same four
committees. The hearing process should last from now until April. If you
want to listen in, go to the respective committee websites on either www.senate.gov or www.house.gov, select the committee (Armed
Services or Appropriations) then select Schedule or Hearings, and then look for
the LISTEN LIVE link. On the date and time of the hearing, hopefully
you'll be able to hear our military leaders talk about what is important and
hear the line of questioning. As you listen, remember that the questions are
sometimes big picture and sometimes very detailed to that member's
district. For example, Mrs. Bordallo may want to ask the Navy Secretary
and Chief Naval Operations about their plans for the Island of Guam, and may
not ask about other items, because Guam is heavily affected by Navy operations.
Hearings define the bills that will be produced by the lawmakers that will
become the Defense Authorization and Defense Appropriations bills later this
year for Fiscal 2009. A good website to bookmark for Senate hearings is http://capitolhearings.org/ is. It is
run by C-SPAN. [Source: EANGUS Minuteman Update 25 Feb 08 ++]
MISSING IN AMERICA PROJECT: Veterans expect to have honor and
respect paid them as a result their service to our country.
Unfortunately, many have never received a proper military burial and lie on a
shelf in a mortuary or a storage facility at a crematorium. Recently
volunteers discovered that an estimated 1000 cremated remains of veterans may
be stored in a Oregon State hospital in rusted/dented cans. On the shelf
were cremains for the time span of the 1890s to 1971. You can read about
this at http://tinyurl.com/2xrx9u.
More on the subject is covered in videos accessible on the internet at http://www.ksdk.com/video/default.aspx?aid=67740&sid=138863&bw=hi&cat=70
and
http://s15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ducpho/MIAP/?action=view¤t=AVSEQ01.flv.
It is estimated that tens of thousands of veteran cremains exist nationwide as
a result of the deceased having no family, families lack of awareness of the
availability of burial honors, or the bereaved survivors were just unable to
deal with their loss and have procrastinated doing anything. Many of
these cremains have been abandoned.
In NOV 06 the Missing in America Project (MIAP) was
established to address this situation and volunteers successfully interred 21
cremains of forgotten veterans, with full military honors and the dignity these
fallen heroes so richly deserved to in the Idaho State Veterans cemetery.
MIAP has spent the last year visiting funeral homes nationwide, asking to be
let in to identify these veterans so they can get them properly buried in a
national or state cemetery. It's a challenging task, considering not all the
nation's 45,000 funeral homes are willingly opening their doors to show what's
in their back rooms. In a year, MIAP has located, identified and interred 101
veterans with honors. There's much more to do. Thousands of America's war
veterans are warehoused in back rooms, dusty basements and closets waiting for
a proper burial. MIAP's goals are to locate, identify and inter the
unclaimed cremated remains of American veterans through the joint efforts of
private, state and federal organization and to provide honor and respect
to those who have served this country by securing a final resting place for
these forgotten heroes.
The initial focus of the MIA Project will be a
nation-wide effort to locate, identify and inter the unclaimed remains of
forgotten veterans. This task will be executed through the combined,
cooperative efforts of members of the American Legion, other volunteer service
and veteran organizations, local Funeral Homes, State Funeral Commissions,
State and National Veterans Administration Agencies, and the State and National
Veterans Cemetery Administrations. Local, state and national laws must be
followed in the identification, claiming process and proper interment of the
unclaimed remains of forgotten veterans. In some states legislation has
been introduced to make it easier to deal with existing administrative barriers
which cause excessive delay in releasing abandoned veteran remains to veteran
organizations. The second phase of the MIA Project will be the creation of a
network of individuals working with local Funeral Homes, State, and National
Agencies to ensure that, from now on, the cremated remains of any unclaimed
veteran will be identified, claimed and interred in a timely manner.
Volunteers are needed and individual or organization wanting to support this
effort should contact Fred Salanti at ducpho@miap.us
or Chuck Tyler at chucktyler@miap.us.
For additional info refer to refer to http://www.miap.us.
[Source: VCVT Michael Isam msg 23 Feb 08 ++]
VA BURIAL BENEFIT UPDATE 01: Often survivors are disappointed when
they seek reimbursement of burial expenses for departed veterans. This is
because retirees have not informed their loved ones what to do and how much to
expect in the event of their demise. The following is the maximum
benefits currently payable by the VA:
1. VA will provide headstones or markers to memorialize veterans or mark the
graves of veterans buried in national, state, or private cemeteries as well as
those whose remains have not been recovered or identified. This includes those
buried at sea, those remains donated to science, and those cremated and whose
cremated remains were scattered without burying any portion of them. VA will
also provide markers for eligible family members interred in a national or
State Veteran's Cemetery. When interment is in a private cemetery, the cemetery
may require, and charge for, a foundation for the marker and installation of
the marker. Such costs must be paid from private funds.
2. VA may provide $300 toward the burial expenses of retired veterans who are
eligible for VA pension or compensation and for those who die in VA medical
facilities. An additional $150 gravesite or interment allowance may be paid if
a retired veteran served during a war period and is not buried in a national
cemetery or other Government cemetery.
3. If a retired veteran's death is deemed to be service-connected, VA will pay
an amount not to exceed $2,000 in lieu of the usual burial and gravesite
allowance.
4. VA will provide an American flag, upon request, for covering the casket; and
a memorial
certificate, bearing the President's signature, expressing our Nation's
grateful recognition of the deceased veteran's service.
5. In addition to VA burial benefits, the surviving spouse or eligible child of
a retired Soldier may be eligible for a $255 lump-sum death benefit from Social
Security. Local Social Security Offices have details.
As determined by the VA, the phrase "entitled to
receive" includes only those veterans who have been awarded VA
compensation or pension or who have submitted an application [VA Form 21-526]
that is pending at the time of the veteran's death that would have subsequently
been approved. It does not apply automatically to military disability
retirees. To qualify for payment, a military retiree must have applied
for VA compensation and have been determined to be entitled for the
benefit. The fact that a retiree chose not to waive all or part of his
retirement pay after being awarded VA compensation does not disqualify the
proper claimant(s) from receiving the appropriate allowance. This change
has no affect on payment of the burial allowance where death is adjudged
subsequently by the VA to be service connected. For veterans [U.S. or
USAFFE] who die in the Philippines to receive burial benefits the veteran had
to be in receipt of VA benefits or entitled to receive VA benefits at the time
of death. If the veteran died in the States and was a US citizen he did not
have to be in receipt of VA benefits if his income and net worth were under the
income limits set for NSC pension. The time limit for filing for burial
benefits is two years after burial or other final disposition. Any person who
was retired for disability should seriously consider filing a claim with the VA
to establish eligibility for disability compensation so that ultimately payment
for burial allowance may be made to survivors. VA Form 21-526 is used for
filing for disability compensation and VA Form 21-534 is used when filing
claims for burial compensation. Both may be obtained from the nearest VA
office. RAO Baguio also can provide these forms and forward them to
Manila if desired. For more information on VA burial benefits, contact any VA
office 1(800) 827-1000) [1-800 1-888 5252 if outside Manila in the Philippines]
or national cemetery; or refer to: http://www.cem.va.gov/.
[Source: RAO Baguio Feb 08 ++]
RETIRED ARMY PIN: Retired Soldiers are authorized to wear the new Retired
Army pin, which is the Army logo with the word "Retired" emblazoned
above it. At the behest of the CSA Retiree Council, this pin replaced the small
green Retired Army Lapel button. The Council asked for a larger pin that could
be recognized from afar, worn on clothing other than a suit jacket, and that
would show the continuing bond between the retired Soldier and the Army. A mass
mail-out of the new pin to all retired Soldiers started 26 MAR 07 and continued
for about 4 months. The pin can be purchased online for around $4.00.
[Source: RSO Handbook Section 1-7 Feb 08 ++]
RETIREE WEARING OF THE UNIFORM: Wearing a uniform after
retirement is a privilege granted in recognition of faithful service to
country. Retired Soldiers should exercise this privilege whenever possible and
in such a manner as to reflect credit upon themselves and the United States
Army. Soldiers who are advanced to a higher grade upon retirement may wear the
insignia of such higher grade while participating in retirement ceremonies and
thereafter. Retired Soldiers serving on active duty will wear the uniform and
insignia prescribed for Soldiers in the active Army of corresponding grade and
branch. Retired Soldiers not on active duty may wear either the uniform
reflecting their grade and branch on the date of their retirement or the
uniform for Soldiers in the active Army of corresponding grade and branch, when
appropriate. The uniforms may not be mixed. The grade worn is that indicated on
the retired grade/rank line of your retirement order. Retired Soldiers not on
active duty are not authorized to wear shoulder sleeve insignia except as
follows:
(1) Junior ROTC instructors will wear the Cadet Command shoulder sleeve
insignia on their left shoulder.
(2) The shoulder sleeve insignia of a former wartime unit may be worn on the
right shoulder by retired Soldiers who served in the unit.
(3) The retired shoulder patch is worn on the left shoulder sleeve, centered
one-half inch from the top.
Retired Soldiers not on active duty are not authorized
to wear the Army uniform when they are instructors or are responsible for
military discipline at an educational institution unless the educational
institution is conducting courses of instruction approved by the Armed Forces.
If there is any doubt about wearing the uniform to a function, the commander of
the nearest Army installation should be contacted. Retired Soldiers in a
foreign country should contact the American Embassy, the American Consulate, or
a U. S. military authority. Wear of the Army uniform is prohibited for all
retired Soldiers:
(1) In connection with the promotion of any political or commercial interests
or when engaged in off-duty civilian employment. Army Reserve technicians who
are also Soldiers of the Ready Reserve may wear the Army uniform at their
option while on duty in their civil service status.
(2) When participating in public speeches, interviews, picket lines, marches,
rallies, or public demonstrations, except as authorized by competent authority.
(3) When wearing the uniform would bring discredit upon the Army.
(4) When specifically prohibited by Army Regulations (AR). (Refer to AR 670-1,
Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia; http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/r670_1.pdf.)
[Source: RSO Handbook Section 3-8 Feb 08 ++]
RETIREE APPRECIATION DAYS UPDATE 01: Retiree Appreciation Days
(RADs) and Military Retiree Seminars offer military retirees and their families
a chance to learn current information about topics such as benefits,
entitlements, health care, and special services available for them. RADs
vary from installation to installation, but, in general, they provide an
opportunity to renew acquaintances, listen to guest speakers, renew ID Cards,
get medical checkups, and various other services. Some RADs include special
events such as dinners or golf tournaments. For more information, contact the
Retirement Services Officer (RSO) sponsoring the RAD or the event's point of
contact below for specific details. The Army maintains a current listing of
activities for 2008 at http://www.armyg1.army.mil/rso/docs/rads.pdf.
The current listing includes:
Fresno, CA
Mar 8
(559) 291-2774
Schweinfurt, Germany Apr 12
09721-96-7033
Dover AFB, DE
Apr 12
(302) 677-4612
Stuttgart, Germany Apr 19
07031-15-2924
Ft Jackson, SC
Apr 25-26 (803) 751-6715
Ft Wainwright, AK Apr 26
(907) 384-3500
West Point, NY Apr 26
(845) 938-4217
McGuire AFB, NJ Apr 26
(609) 754-2459
Ft Lewis, WA
May 16
(253) 966-5884
Ft Buchanan, PR May 17
(787) 707-3842
Vicenza, Italy
May
30
0444-71-7262
Ft Ord, CA
Jun 7
(831) 242-6691
Ft McPherson, GA Jun 21
(404) 464-3219
NAS Jacksonville, FL July 12 (904) 542-2766 Ext. 126
Orlando, FL
Aug 16 (912) 767-5013 (i.e. Ft Stewart)
Camp Ripley, MN Aug 23 (763) 441-2630
Ft McCoy, WI
Sep 5
(608) 388-3716
Carlisle Barracks, PA Sep 6
(717) 245-5401
Ft Leonard Wood, MO Sep
12-13
(573) 596-0947
Ft Eustis, VA
Sep
13
(757) 878-3648
Nellis AFB, NV
Sep
27
(702) 652-9978
Selfridge, MI
Sep
27
(586) 307-5580
Ft Myer, VA
Oct 10 (703) 696-5948
Ft Monmouth, NJ Oct 11
(732) 532-3734
Ft Monroe, VA
Oct 16
(757) 788-2093
Ft Meade, MD
Oct 17
(301) 677-9603
Heidelberg, Germany Oct 18
06221-57-3347
Aberdeen Prv. Grd., MD Oct 18
(410) 306-2320
Ft Hood, TX
Oct 24-25 (254) 287-5210
Rock Island, IL
Oct 25
(563) 322-4823
Ft Campbell, KY
Oct 25
(270) 798-5280
Andrews AFB, MD Oct 25
(301) 981-2726
Grafenwoehr, Germany Oct 25
09641-83-8540
Ft Knox, KY
Oct 31-Nov 1 (502) 624-4315/6419
Ft Sam Houston, TX Nov 1
(210) 221-9004
Ft Leavenworth, KS Nov 1
(913)684-2425
Ft Benning, GA
Nov 8 (706) 545-1805
Bolling AFB, DC Nov 8 (202) 767-5244
[Source: http://www.armyg1.army.mil/rso/docs/rads.pdf.
4 Feb 08 ++]
COLA 2009: In mid February, the Bureau of Labor Statistics
announced the January 2008 monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is the
metric used to calculate the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for
military retired pay, VA disability compensation, survivor annuities, and
Social Security. The CPI jumped 0.5% over December's value. That puts
cumulative inflation at 1.5% for the first four months of the fiscal year. If
inflation kept that cumulative pace for the rest of the year, the 2009 COLA
would be 4.5%. But history says that probably won't happen. Anyone desiring to
track the monthly CPI fluctuations can refer to http://www.moaa.org/colawatch and view
a graphic chart on the comparison between the 2008 and 2009 CPIs.
[Source: MOAA Update 22 Feb 08 ++]
TRICARE UNIFORM FORMULARY UPDATE 24: On 13 FEB the Defense Department
approved shifting several medications for cardiovascular disorders, enlarged
prostate, and immune diseases to the third tier, or $22 copay level.
* Chronic heart failure drugs Zebeta, Coreg, Toprol XL, and Lopressor will
remain on the formulary at $3 or $9 copays.
* Exforge, a combination drug for high blood pressure, will move to the third
tier, effective April 16. The copay for Norvasc will move in the other
direction, dropping from $22 to $9.
* In addition, a new "prior authorization" requirement on prostate
drugs will require beneficiaries to try Uroxatral before Hytrin, Cardura, or
Flomax, effective April 16, unless they have had a prescription issued for one
of the latter three medications within the last 180 days. This means those
three medications will carry a $22 copay unless TRICARE approves the doctor's
request that there is a "medical necessity" to take one of them. MOAA
and other beneficiary representatives have asked DoD to consider moving Flomax
back to a $9 copay.
* The drugs Enbrel and Kineret, used to treat various forms of arthritis,
psoriasis, Chron's disease, and ulcerative colitis, will move to the third tier
effective June 18th. Humira, Raptiva and Amevive remain available for the
regular copays.
* The contraceptive Lybrel, and ADHD medication Vyvnase will move to the third
tier effective April 16.
[Source: MOAA Leg Up 22 Feb 08 ++]
VA AGENT ORANGE CLAIMS UPDATE 03: The USS Ingersoll (DD 652)
operated during the Vietnam Era as a Navy destroyer gunship conducting fire
support missions along the coast of the Republic of Vietnam for military ground
operations. In addition to coastal duty, the USS Ingersoll traveled up
the Saigon River on 24 & 25 OCT 65, to fire on enemy bases. The Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) C&P Service has reviewed the ship's deck logs,
located at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), and
confirmed this service on the "inland waterways" of the Republic of
Vietnam. As a result, the presumption of herbicide exposure, as described
in 38 CFR 3.307(a)(6), can be extended to any crewmember who served aboard the
vessel on these dates. Anyone who served on the Ingersoll on the dates in
question and had previous claims for Agent Orange related conditions denied
should reapply. VA regional offices are directed to extend the
presumption of herbicide exposure to new claims involving a veteran who served
aboard the USS Ingersoll during 24 & 25 OCT 65. Additionally, if
regional offices are aware that any such claim was denied due to lack of
evidence for herbicide exposure, they are directed to reevaluate the claim as
soon as possible. Veterans names will be checked against the official crew
manifest of those on board the ship during those dates. [Source: NAUS
Weekly Update 22 Feb 08 ++]
CHCBP UPDATE 01: The Continued Health Care Benefits Program [CHCBP
] is offered for persons who are losing their eligibility for Tricare benefits.
These could be:
* individuals separating (not retiring) from the military;
* dependent children reaching the age of 21 and who are not full-time students,
* dependent children who reach the age of 23 and were, or are, full-time
students,
* dependent children who marry,
* divorced former spouse who does not meet the requirements to maintain
benefits as an Un-Remarried Former Spouse.
The above may apply for temporary, transitional
medical coverage under the CHCBP which can act as a bridge between your
military health benefits and your new job's medical benefits. If you purchase
this conversion health care plan, CHCBP may entitle you to coverage for
preexisting conditions often not covered by a new employer's benefit
plan. The CHCBP benefits are comparable to the Tricare Standard benefit,
which covers a majority of medical conditions, uses existing Tricare providers
and follows most of the rules and procedures of Tricare Standard. However, for
some types of treatment, coverage can be limited. Prior to enrolling in CHCBP,
interested beneficiaries are encouraged to contact a Tricare Service Center to
ask specific questions regarding Tricare Standard coverage.
Eligible beneficiaries must enroll in CHCBP within 60
days following the loss of entitlement to the Military Health System. To
enroll, you will be required to submit:
* A completed CHCBP Enrollment Application form (DD
Form 2837). PDF forms are available at http://www.humana-military.com/chcbp/pdf/dd2837.pdf
* Documentation as requested on the enrollment form,
e.g., DD-214-Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty; final
divorce decree; DD1173-Uniformed Services ID Card. Additional information and
documentation may be required to confirm an applicant's eligibility for CHCBP.
* A premium payment for the first 90-days of health
coverage.
The premium rates are $933 per quarter for individuals and $1,996 per quarter
for families. Humana Military Healthcare Services, Inc. will bill you for
subsequent quarterly premiums through your period of eligibility once you are
enrolled. CHCBP coverage is limited to 18 months for separating Service Members
and their families or 36 months for others who are eligible. In some cases
unremarried former spouses may continue coverage beyond 36 months if they meet
certain criteria. You may not elect the effective date of coverage under CHCBP.
For all enrollees, CHCBP coverage must be effective on the day after you lose
military benefits. For more information about CHCBP, refer to the
CHCBP Web http://www.humana-military.com/chcbp/main.htm
or call 1(800) 444-5445. You may also contact your regional contractor or
a Beneficiary Counseling and Assistance Coordinator (BCAC) to discuss your
eligibility for this program. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 22 Feb 08 ++]
SBA VET ISSUES UPDATE 07: President Bush signed into law the
Veterans Small Business Benefits Bill to expand certain small business benefits
for veterans. The law (PL 110-186), will:
* Increase the authorization of appropriations for the Small Business
Administration's Office of Veteran Business Development;
* Create an Interagency Taskforce on Veteran Small Business to focus on
increasing veterans' small business success, procurement and franchising
opportunities, and access to capital;
* Make permanent the Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs;
* Allow the SBA Administrator to offer loans up to $50,000 without
requiring collateral from a loan applicant;
* Improve the Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan program by
providing a longer application deadline; creating a pre-deployment loan
approval process; expanding outreach and technical assistance;
* Require a Government Accountability Office report on the needs of
service-disabled veterans and a separate report on how to improve relations
between employers and reservist employees;
* Create a loan participation program in which veterans can receive 7(a)
loans while paying 50 percent of the fees;
* Require Veteran Business Outreach Centers to increase their
participation in the Transition Assistance Program;
* Create a grant program to improve Small Business Development Centers'
outreach to the veteran community; and
* Require the Office of Veterans Business Development to create and
disseminate information aimed at informing women veterans about the resources
available to them.
[Source: NGAUS LRGIT 22 Feb 08 ++]
VA VETERAN SUPPORT: The Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA)
provides veteran support through their efforts to achieve the following goals:
- Restore the capability of veterans with disabilities to the greatest extent
possible, and improve the quality of their lives and that of their families.
- Ensure a smooth transition for veterans from active military service to
civilian life.
- Honor and serve veterans in life, and memorialize them in death for their
sacrifices on behalf of the Nation.
- Contribute to the public health, emergency management, socioeconomic
well-being, and history of the Nation.
- Deliver world-class service to veterans and their families through effective
communication and management of people, technology, business processes, and
financial resources.
In accomplishing this the DVA provide services to the nations extensive veteran
community. As of FEB 08 here are about 23.8 million living veterans, 7.5% of
whom are women. There are about 37 million dependents (spouses and dependent
children) of living veterans and survivors of deceased veterans. Together they
represent 20% of the US population. Most veterans living today served during
times of war. The Vietnam Era veteran, about 7.9 million, is the largest
segment of the veteran population. In 2007, the median age of all living
veterans was 60 years old, 61 for men and 47 for women. Median ages by period
of service: Gulf War, 37 years old; Vietnam War, 60; Korean War, 76; and WWII 84.
Sixty percent (60%) of the nation's veterans live in urban areas. States with
the largest veteran population are CA, FL, TX, PA, NY and OH, respectively.
These six states account for about 36% of the total veteran population.
Veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)
statistics are:
* 48% are Active Duty, 52% are Reserve/National Guard.
* 88% are men, 12% are women.
* 65% Army; 12% Air Force; 12% Navy; 12% Marine.
* 34% were deployed multiple times.
* 52%, largest age group is 20-29 years old.
* 69% of those who filed disability claims received service-connected
disability compensation award.
[Source: VA Fact sheet Feb 08 ++]
VA RURAL ACCESS UPDATE 03: Facing a barrage of complaints about
veterans' health care in rural America, the incoming secretary of Veteran
Affairs pledged 20 FEB 08 to address "systemic" issues that hobble
the quality and accessibility of VA care. Secretary James Peake heard from a
group of about 100 Montana veterans who described the Department of Veterans
Affairs as a sometimes dysfunctional bureaucracy - and one particularly slow to
address mental health issues. Veterans told him they face months-long waits for
appointments, arbitrary rejections of claims and 500-mile trips to receive
care. Those who spoke spanned generations, including veterans of World War II,
Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War and peacetime service. "We need more doctors.
And it would be nice if we could keep them for a while," said Ernest
LaFountain, who did three tours in Vietnam and now suffers from post-traumatic
stress disorder. Peake, also a Vietnam combat veteran, took the helm of the
scandal-battered VA in DEC 07. He said Wednesday he wanted to "reach out
to rural America" and help those veterans not getting adequate care. "The
notion that the VA is uncaring, if we have pockets of that we're going to find
it and root it out," he said. Peake was appointed by President Bush in the
wake of widespread reports of dismal care received by troops returning from
Iraq and Afghanistan - problems for which Bush later apologized. The secretary
was in Montana at the invitation of Sen. Jon Tester, a Democratic member of the
Veterans Affairs Committee.
The number of veterans under VA's care is expected to
hit 5.8 million by 2009. Peake acknowledged giving that many people all the
care they need is particularly difficult in rural areas such as Montana, where
mental health and other services can sometimes be hundreds of miles from a
veteran's home. In an illustration of how much of a burden distance can be, Jim
Kerr of Billings, commander of Disabled American Veterans Chapter 10, said
volunteers in eastern Montana logged a combined 418,000 miles last year
transporting more than 7,100 veterans to medical appointments. In response to
such problems, Peake announced the creation of a new health advisory committee
to ensure VA is responsive to rural health concerns. He said more facilities
are being built to serve to veterans, including a clinic that opened in Cut
Bank last month and others planned in Havre and Lewistown MT. "We need to
make mental health care more local," he said. He said he also wanted to
increase the number of mental health counselors, in particular those who are
themselves veterans and "have walked the walk." Tester said the changes
Peake talked of need to happen quickly if VA hopes to better handle the
incoming tide of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan. "The significant
issue coming out of Iraq is the PTSD issue, and I don't think we're ready for
that right now," Tester said. "The VA system is an incredibly good
health care system for those who get through the door," he said. "The
problem is with those who can't get through the door." [Source:
Associated Matthew Brown article 21 Feb 08 ++]
VA RURAL ACCESS UPDATE 04: Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James
B. Peake announced 20 FEB the creation of a special "Rural Health National
Advisory Committee" to advise him and the senior leaders of the Department
of Veterans Affairs (VA) about health care issues affecting veterans in rural
areas. "In the last decade, VA has created outpatient clinics that bring
health care closer to where veterans actually live," Peake said.
"This advisory committee, working within the highest levels of VA, will
ensure the Department remains responsive to the health care needs of rural
veterans." While Peake said many of the details of the panel are still
being formulated, the committee will consist of members familiar with rural
health issues. The members will come from the federal, state and local
sectors, academia and veterans service organizations. The advisory committee
will provide guidance to Peake and to Dr. Michael J. Kussman, VA's Under
Secretary for Health. The panel's first meeting is tentatively scheduled
for this summer. VA has 25 similar advisory committees, each with between 10
and 15 members. Members are typically appointed to one-, two- or
three-year terms to ensure continuity of operations. Following is the
current status of the VA's Rural Health Initiative:
1. Milestones already met include:
* Establishment of telehealth training center for VA professionals in Lake City
FL (January 2004).
* Establishment of Rural Health in VA headquarters (February 2007).
* First report to Congress on improving access to mental health and long-term
health in rural areas (September 2007).
* Increased mileage reimbursements for patients for first time in 30 years
(February 2008)
2. Milestones in progress include:
* Expanding current programs that provide: Services to Native American
veterans, Mental health, and Long-term care.
* Expanding existing telehealth programs and investigating new applications. VA
patients in 30 states now use telehealth devices. Current technology permits
patient care coordination among health care professionals, exchange of routine
clinical data from home-bound patients, and continuity of care to mobile senior
"snowbirds"
3. Projects under consideration include: Mobile health care vans,
Transportation grants, Collaborating with non-VA facilities, and Patient
education through "pod" casts.
[Source: VA Press Release 20 Feb 08 ++]
STUDENT VETERANS OF AMERICA (SVA): Student veterans from
approximately 20 universities representing 13 states from every region of the
country came together on 11 & 12 JAN 08 in Chicago to found the
non-profit organization [501 (c)3.] Student Veterans of America (SVA).
Attending the conference were national representatives from the VFW, the
American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Veterans of Modern Wars, and the
National Association of Veterans' Program Administrators. Also in
attendance were the Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois departments of veterans'
affairs who offered their full support to the new organization. SDV's goal is
to address issues facing student veterans. As part of its core mission,
SVA is committed to placing student veterans' resource offices or coordinators
on college campuses. Beginning with this grassroots effort, student veterans
plan to advocate on and off campus, for much needed changes to current policies
dealing with the education of veterans. and assist universities in
providing adequate resources and programs for vets. SVA President Derek
Blumke who served in the Air Force for six years and is in the Air National
Guard stated in a recent interview, "The majority of campuses throughout
the nation currently lack the infrastructure to support returning veterans.
Veterans are incredibly intelligent and well rounded individuals. They simply
need programs set up so when they arrive to campus they are welcomed with open
arms". These resource offices will assist veterans in educating them on
their benefits, providing them with the resources required to succeed in
school, and in their transition from the service member to the student. Student
Veterans of America is gaining national momentum, and will meet in Washington
D.C. in JUN 08 to incorporate 30+ universities and further develop coordination
between college and university campus's student veterans groups
nationwide. They have established a communications link via http://groups.google.com/group/StudentVeterans
!
for memb
ers and others to pass info and ask questions and are developing their website http://www.studentveterans.org . For
more info about the convention or Student Veterans of America, contact John
Mikelson (University of Iowa) at (319) 384-2020 or john-mikelson@uiowa.edu .
[Source: http://www.gibill.va.gov/ Feb
08 ++]
GUN SALUTES:
1. Origin and significance of military gun salutes - The use of the gun salutes
for military occasions is traced to early warriors who demonstrated their
peaceful intentions by placing their weapons in a position that rendered them
ineffective. The tradition of rendering a salute by cannon originated in the
14th Century in the British Navy. Since discharging the cannon rendered
it ineffective, by custom, warships fired seven-gun salutes while shore
batteries, which had a greater supply of gunpowder and were able to fire three
guns for every shot fired afloat, fired a 21 salute. In 1842 the U. S.
established the Presidential salute at 21 guns while in 1890 it was established
as the National salute. Today, the 21-gun salute is fired in honor of the
President while guns salutes of less numbers are rendered to other military and
civilian leaders based on their protocol rank (Ref: USA Fact Sheet, dtd 05/69).
2. Origin and significance of the military custom of firing rifle volleys at
funerals - During the funeral rites of the Roman Army the casting of the earth
THREE times upon the coffin constituted "the burial." It was
customary among the Romans to call the dead THREE times by name, which ended
the funeral ceremony. As friends and relatives of the deceased departed they
said "Vale", or farewell, THREE times. Over time when firearms
were introduced on the battlefield the custom of practice of firing volleys was
established to halt the fighting to remove the dead from the battlefield.
Once each army had cleared its dead it would fire THREE volleys to indicate
that the dead had been cared for and that they were ready to go back to the
fight. Today, when a squad of soldiers fires THREE volleys over a grave,
they are, in accordance with this old Roman custom, bidding their dead comrade
farewell. After the last rifle volley, the bugler then sounds TAPS. The
fact that the firing party consists of seven riflemen, firing three volleys does
not constitute a 21-gun salute. (Ref: Mil Customs dtd 1917).
3. 21 vs. 3 - Many confuse the 21-gun salute with the 3-volley salute. The
21-gun salute is used primarily as a greeting. It's fired during presidential
arrivals and departures and when heads of state visit. Also, it's not limited
to the United States -- many countries have similar ceremonies. The 3-volley
salute, on the other hand, is performed during police and military funerals by
the Honor Guard and is intended as a reminder. While the two salutes look
(and sound) similar, the 21-gun salute is considered the higher honor.
4. 21 History - It's been said that 21 guns are fired because the digits in
1776 add up to 21 (1+7+7+6=21). Logical, but Snopes.com writes this is just an
urban legend. The real story behind the honor is a bit more complicated. The
United States Army explains the salute's history. "Originally warships
fired seven-gun salutes -- the number seven probably selected because of its
astrological and Biblical significance." Land-based cannons had a higher
capacity for gun powder and "were able to fire three guns for every shot
fired afloat, hence the salute by shore batteries was 21 guns."
Eventually, as gun powder improved, ships fired 21 guns, too. The habit of
firing salutes became wasteful, with ships and shore batteries firing shots for
hours on end. This was particularly expensive for ships, which had a limited
space to store powder (which went bad quickly in the salt air). The British
admiralty first dictated the policies now in place as a practical matter to
save gunpowder. The rule was simple, for every volley fired by a ship in
salute, a shore battery could return up to three shots. The regulations limited
ships to a total of seven shots in salute, so the 21 gun-salute became the
salute used to honor the only the most important dignitaries.
5. Salute Protocol - Today, the U.S. Navy Regulations proscribe that only those
ships and stations designated by the Secretary of the Navy may fire gun
salutes. A national salute of 21 guns is fired on: Washington's Birthday,
Memorial Day, Independence Day, to honor the President of the United States,
and to honor heads of foreign states. Additionally, ships may, with approval
from the office of the Secretary of the Navy, provide gun salutes for naval
officers on significant occasions, using the following protocol: Admiral-17
guns, Vice Admiral-15 guns, a Rear Admiral (upper half)-13 guns, and Rear
Admiral (lower half)-11 guns. All gun salutes are fired at five-second
intervals. Gun salutes will always total an odd number.
6. Volley Protocol - The 3-volley salute is a salute performed at military and
police funerals as part of the drill and ceremony of the Honor Guard. A rifle
party, usually consisting of an odd number of firers, usually from 3 to 7
firearms. Usually the firearms are rifles for military, but at some police
funerals, shotguns are used. The firing party is positioned such that, when
they shoulder their arms for firing, the muzzles are pointed over the casket of
the deceased who is being honored. If the service is being performed inside a
church or chapel, or funeral home, the firing party fires from outside the
building, typically positioned near the front entrance. On the command of the
NCO-in-charge, the firing party fires their weapons in unison, for a total of
three volleys. Because unbulleted blanks (which will not cycle the action of a
semi-automatic rifle) are used, in the United States, M1 or M14 rifles are
preferred over the current issue M16 rifle, because the charging handles of the
M1/M14 are more easily operated in a dignified, ceremonial manner than on the
M16.
[Source: http://www.hbtv.us/VA/ 20
Feb 08 ++]
PHILIPPINES U.S. TROOP PROTEST: Demonstrators calling for U.S.
troops to withdraw from the Philippines protested the start of annual joint
military exercises 18 FEB, with hundreds of American troops heading to southern
islands where al-Qaida-linked militants operate. The two-week drills - called
Balikatan, or "shoulder-to-shoulder" - bring together 6,000 U.S. and
2,000 Filipino troops at a time when Philippine forces are battling militants
from the Abu Sayyaf and its allies from the Indonesia-based Jemaah Islamiyah
terror network. About 30 protesters from the left-wing coalition Bayan burned a
U.S. flag and chanted "U.S. troops out now!" outside the gate of the
military headquarters in Manila, where U.S. Ambassador Kristie Kenney,
Philippine Foreign Secretary Alberto Romulo and top military officials led the
opening ceremony. Rallies also were held in at least four southern cities to
demand U.S. troops leave because of alleged involvement in combat operations -
prohibited by Philippine law - and human rights abuses, activists said. In
Cagayan de Oro, police estimated the crowd at 1,000, including priests and nuns
who joined lawmakers and Muslim activists. In the southern Philippines, where
Muslim rebels have waged a decades-long separatist insurgency, U.S. troops will
conduct medical missions and repair schools, officials said. The areas include
Jolo island, an Abu Sayyaf stronghold, and central Mindanao, a base of the Moro
Islamic Liberation Front, the country's biggest separatist group, now holding
peace talks with the government. Tensions flared recently on Jolo after villagers
accused the military of killing seven civilians and an off-duty soldier during
operations to hunt down suspected terrorists. Rawina Wahid, whose husband was
killed in the raid early this month, said she was tied up and put on a naval
boat with several U.S. soldiers on board. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has
ordered an investigation into the deaths. Last week, U.S. Embassy spokeswoman
Rebecca Thompson denied American sold!
iers too
k part in any combat operations. Military chief Gen. Hermogenes Esperon said
the emphasis of the exercises, which have been held since 1981, has shifted to
humanitarian assistance, part of efforts to win over local Muslim populations.
America's soft counterterrorism approach here has won praise in contrast to
mounting criticism of U.S.-led incursions in Iraq and Afghanistan. A manhunt
continues on Jolo for Abu Sayyaf commanders and two top Indonesian militants
wanted for alleged involvement in the 2002 nightclub bombings that killed 202
people on Indonesia's Bali island. The Abu Sayyaf, blacklisted by Washington as
a terrorist organization, has been blamed for deadly bomb attacks, beheadings
and high-profile kidnappings, including of Americans. [Source: By - Associated
Press Teresa Cerojano article 20 Feb 08 ++]
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE: Cardiovascular disease is the single
greatest cause of death in the United States each year. The most common heart
disease in the United States is coronary heart disease, which is unfortunately
often diagnosed after a heart attack has already occurred. In 2008, an
estimated 770,000 Americans will have a coronary attack for the first time, and
about 430,000 will have a recurrent attack. About every 26 seconds, an American
will have a coronary event, and about one every minute will die from one.
American Heart Month is a good time to learn how to recognize the signs of a
heart attack. A person's chances of surviving a heart attack increase if
emergency treatment is given to the victim as soon as possible. Some signs of a
heart attack include:
* Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the
chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. The
discomfort can feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
* Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. This can include pain or
discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
* Shortness of breath. This often comes along with chest discomfort. But it
also can occur before chest discomfort.
* Other symptoms. These may include breaking out in a cold sweat or feeling
nauseated or lightheaded.
If someone is having a heart attack, call 911. Better yet learn how
to save a life by signing up for a local CPR class near you The American
Heart Association offers a variety of CPR courses that will give you the
confidence to help a friend or loved one experiencing cardiac arrest. From the
22-minute CPR Anytime kit for family and friends to a classroom-based CPR and
AED course, there's a convenient way for everyone to learn CPR. Your actions
can be lifesaving. At http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3011764
you can find a class location and map to it by typing in your zip code.
Here you can also order an Adult/Child Light/Dark skin Anytime kit consisting
of a personal, inflatable Manikin, a CPR Anytime Skills Practice DVD, a CPR for
Family and Friends resource booklet, and other accessories for the program for
$29.95. [Source: Dear Marci Health tip 18 Feb 08 ++]
WHOOPING COUGH UPDATE 01: Doctors once hoped to control whooping
cough, or pertussis, by vaccinating children only. But recently cases have
soared among teens and adults who were vaccinated as children. "We now
know that as we get older, we lose our protection," says Sandra Fryhofer,
an internist in Atlanta and former president of the American College of
Physicians. For adults, the illness is rarely dangerous, though the cough can
cause vomiting and disrupt sleep. Some adults cough hard enough to crack ribs,
break blood vessels or pass out, says Mark Dworkin, a researcher at the
University of Illinois-Chicago. The most serious risk, though, is that sick
adults will infect babies, who are not yet fully vaccinated. "This disease
is a baby killer," Dworkin says. The CDC recommends teens and adults get
one of two new vaccines combining whooping cough, tetanus and diphtheria
protection. Doctors for adults might not be recommending the vaccine because
they don't know much about the disease, Dworkin says. Side effects (mostly sore
arms) and cost (about $40 a shot, usually covered by insurers) don't explain
low usage, Fryhofer says. Just 2.1% of adults have had booster shots, which are
recommended for those under age 65. In studies, the shots produced adequate
immune responses 83% to 94% of the time. [Source: USA Today Kim Painter article
18Feb 08 ++]
SHINGLES UPDATE 06: Shingles is a painful condition caused by the
same virus that causes chickenpox. It's recommended for adults over age 60, but
just 1.9% have had it. The vaccine, tested by the VA and Merck in trials,
"was approved in May 2006 for people 60 and up," but Merck "has
sold a modest 2 million doses." Infectious disease specialist Michael N.
Oxman of the VA San Diego Healthcare System said this may be so because doctors
are not focused on vaccines, but internist Chester Good at the VA Medical
Center in Pittsburgh argued that until more data comes in, "there's no
rush" to get the vaccine. "Many people describe shingles pain as the
worst pain they've ever endured," says Oxman. The pain starts as the
varicella zoster virus re-emerges in someone who has had chickenpox. The virus
travels down nerve cells to the skin, where it typically causes a one-sided
rash on the face or trunk. Then chronic, often debilitating pain can develop.
Most patients are over age 60. The lifetime risk of shingles for anyone who has
had chickenpox is about 30%; once afflicted, up to 30% have pain lasting at
least four to six months, says Kenneth Schmader of the American Geriatrics
Society and a physician at the Durham VA Medical Center in North Carolina. The
vaccine doesn't offer total protection, but it cuts the risk of shingles in
half, reduces pain intensity and lowers the risk of lingering pain by two-thirds,
Schmader says. The vaccine, priced around $150 by the manufacturer, is covered
by the part of Medicare that pays for prescriptions, not doctor visits. That
means doctors are not automatically paid for shots given in their offices. Some
send patients to pharmacies to get the shots or pick up prescription vials,
adding steps that may reduce use, Oxman says. Others stock and give the
vaccine, but require patients to pay upfront and seek their own
reimbursement. Veterans enrolled in the VA medical system can request
their primary care physicians for the shot and if approved receive it. I did
and received it 26 F!
EB. [Sou
rce: USA Today Kim Painter article 18 Feb 08 ++]
PTSD UPDATE 17: The Veterans Affairs Department has dumped a policy
requiring combat vets to verify in writing that they have witnessed or
experienced a traumatic event before filing a claim for post-traumatic stress
disorder, said the chairman of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. In the
past, a veteran has had to provide written verification - a statement from a
commander or doctor, or testimony from co-workers - that he or she was involved
in a traumatic situation in order to receive disability compensation for PTSD
from VA. The Defense Department uses the same rules in evaluating PTSD for
disability retirement pay. The rule also slows the process as veterans wait for
yet more documentation before their claims may be processed. Sen. Daniel Akaka
[D-HI] said he asked VA Secretary James Peake if the rule was necessary, and
asked that it be removed. Peake agreed. In the future, veterans will be
diagnosed with PTSD through a medical examination with no further proof
necessary, Akaka said, adding that he's been told that Peake has already
informed VA regional offices of the decision. [Source: AirForceTimes Kelly
Kennedy article 18 Feb 08 ++]
HIGHER EDUCATION ACT: The House recently passed H.R.3099:
National Guard and Reserve Higher Education Fairness Act, which included an
amendment to help servicemembers on active duty with student loans. The
amendment would prevent interest on student loans from accruing while a
servicemember or National Guard member is on active duty up to 60 months. An
existing law already allows servicemembers on active duty to defer their
student loan payments, but interest still accrues on the loan. According
to Representative Susan Davis (D-CA) sponsor of the amendment, a servicemember
could save between $1,183 and $1,479 over the course of a 12-15 month
activation period. [Source: NGAUS Legislative Update 15 Feb 08 ++]
SBP LAWSUIT UPDATE 01: The US Court of Federal Claims has
ruled in favor of three Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuitants seeking a
combined $105,000 in accumulated back pay. The widows are suing the federal
government (Sharp v. The United States) to restore their full SBP annuities and
avoid any deduction of the VA's Dependency and Indemnity Compensation
(DIC). On 11 FEB, Judge George W. Miller denied the Pentagon's motion to
dismiss the suit and decided to let the case proceed. As a practical matter, he
went a big step further, systematically refuting every argument in the
Pentagon's motion. At issue is a 2004 law (PL 108-183) that restored DIC
payments to veterans' surviving spouses who remarry after their 57th birthday.
Before the law change, survivors lost DIC regardless of the age they remarried.
The plaintiffs in the case contend that a provision of the law should be
interpreted as prohibiting the deduction of DIC from their SBP annuities. A DoD
legal review of that provision at the time determined that it did not repeal
the SBP offset provision. The judge's ruling on the motion made it pretty clear
that he leans toward agreeing with the widows. But the battle is far from over.
DoD has until 26 FEB to appeal the judge's ruling or proceed with the case. And
no matter the final outcome, it will likely be appealed. Note that this
case addresses only the three survivors pursuing the suit. It's not a class
action case, and it's not certain whether a favorable decision would affect any
other survivors. [Source: MOAA Leg Up 15 Feb 08 ++]
CRDP/CRSC CLAIM BACKLOG: The Pentagon's senior budget official has
ordered the director of the Defense Finance and Accounting Service to clear up
a major backlog of claims for two disability compensation programs aimed at
military retirees. More than 39,000 claims are pending under the Concurrent
Retirement and Disability Payments and Combat-Related Special Compensation
programs, and retirees have criticized the delays in processing those claims
virtually since the programs were created several years ago. Sen. Ron Wyden
(D-OR) raised concerns about the backlog to Deputy Defense Secretary Gordon
England at a hearing 12 FEB on the Pentagon's 2009 budget request. Pentagon
Comptroller Tina Jonas, who oversees DFAS, said she recently became aware of
the problem and acknowledged that Wyden's complaint was on target. "I
asked the director of the Defense Finance and Accounting Service, Zack Gaddy,
to triple the number of people on this effort, and he is doing so," Jonas
said. "You're absolutely right - the backlog needs to be cleaned out. I
told him that we'd like to have it done by April." A manpower shortage had
slowed the effort, Jonas said in a brief interview the following day after a
separate House hearing on the 2009 defense budget plan.
At the Senate hearing, Wyden pressed Jonas to confirm
that the backlog would be cleared up by April. Jonas said she has directed DFAS
to get "the oldest claims done by April ... they're on track to try to get
that done." Jonas offered to provide weekly progress reports, which Wyden
said he would welcome.
The Concurrent Retirement and Disability Payments program is phasing out a law
enacted in the late 19th century that required disabled military retirees to
forfeit a dollar of military retired pay for every dollar received in veterans
disability compensation. The phase-out is occurring over a 10-year period that
began in 2005 and will end in 2014. At that point, these disabled retirees will
receive full military retired and VA disability payments, with no offset - in
other words, full "concurrent receipt" of both. CRDP, which is
taxable, covers retirees with service-connected disabilities rated at 50 to 90%
by the Department of Veterans Affairs. When CRDP began, retirees rated 100%
disabled also were under the 10-year offset phase-out schedule, but in 2005,
Congress amended the program to give these most seriously disabled retirees
full, immediate concurrent receipt.
Combat Related Special Compensation is a separate program
under which a special, nontaxable payment replaces the entire retired pay
offset for retirees with any VA-rated disability that is the direct result of
combat or combatlike training. In effect, all retirees under CRSC have full
concurrent receipt of military retired pay and VA disability compensation. Each
program is expanding under the 2008 Defense Authorization Act. Eligibility for
CRDP now extends to so-called "individual unemployability" retirees
with service-connected disabilities. "IU" retirees have formal VA
disability ratings of less than 100% but are nevertheless considered
fully disabled because their medical conditions prevent them from holding a
job. They will get full concurrent receipt of retired pay and VA disability
payments retroactive to Dec. 31, 2004, and will no longer be subject to the
10-year phase-out of the offset in retired pay. However, Congress has delayed
the effective date for this provision. Payments will not be made until 1 OCT of
this year. CRSC also is expanding. Previously, retirees had to have at least 20
years of service to be eligible. Effective 1 JAN the program also covers those
who are medically retired by the military with fewer than 20 years of service.
They still must meet all other eligibility criteria, to include having
disabilities that are the direct result of combat or combatlike training. The
Pentagon maintains a Web page with information on both programs, as well as
service contacts for filing claims. [Source: ArmyTimes William H.
McMichael article 14 Feb 08 ++]
VETERAN LEGISLATION STATUS 29 FEB 08: The House and Senate recessed
for Presidents Day 15 FEB and did not return until 25 FEB. This week, the House
announced a change in its future schedule. The House has pushed up the start of
summer recess, which will now begin after completion of business on 1 AUG
08. The House will be in recess for five weeks at that time and will make
up the lost time with extra business days in September. For a listing of
Congressional bills of interest to the veteran community that have been
introduced in the 110th Congress refer to the Bulletin's House & Senate
attachments. By clicking on the bill number indicated you can access the
actual legislative language of the bill and see if your representative has signed
on as a cosponsor. Support of these bills through cosponsorship by other
legislators is critical if they are ever going to move through the legislative
process for a floor vote to become law. A good indication on that
likelihood is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. A
cosponsor is a member of Congress who has joined one or more other members in
his/her chamber (i.e. House or Senate) to sponsor a bill or amendment. The
member who introduces the bill is considered the sponsor. Members subsequently
signing on are called cosponsors. Any number of members may cosponsor a bill in
the House or Senate. At http://thomas.loc.gov
you can also review a copy of each bill's content, determine its current
status, the committee it has been assigned to, and if your legislator is a
sponsor or cosponsor of it. To determine what bills, amendments your
representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d110/sponlst.html.
The key to increasing cosponsorship on veteran related bills and subsequent
passage into law is letting our representatives know of veteran's feelings on
issues. At the end of some listed bills is a web link that can be used to
do that. Otherwise, you can locate on http://thomas.loc.gov
who yo!
ur repre
sentative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to
communicate with a message or letter of your own making. [Source: RAO
Bulletin Attachment 29 Feb 08 ++]
HAVE YOU HEARD: King Ozymandias of Assyria was running low on cash after
years of war with the Hittites. His last great possession was the Star of the
Euphrates, the most valuable diamond in the ancient world. Desperate, he went
to Croesus, the pawnbroker, to ask for a loan. Croesus said, 'I'll give you
100,000 dinars for it.' 'But I paid a million dinars for it,' the King
protested. 'Don't you know who I am? I am the king!' Croesus replied,
'When you wish to pawn a Star, makes no difference who you are.'
Lt. James "EMO" Tichacek, USN (Ret)
Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio
City RP
PSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517
Tel: (951) 238-1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines.
Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net Web: http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html
AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/AD37 member
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