COL DAVID W. CAREY, Deputy Chief of Staff, Personnel (G1)

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Previous Editions:
  March 08         

 

Sgt. 1st Class Antivone Young, 1729 Field Support Maintenance Co., takes down a simulated rioter during non-lethal weapons training while fighting the effects of pepper spray. The April training at Camp Fretterd Military Reservation was in preparation for an upcoming security assistance mission at the Preakness Stakes horse race.

(JFHQ Public Affairs photo by SSG Kristofer P. Baumgartner)

 

WELCOME HOME and SAFE RETURN!

Welcome home to HHT and A Troop of the 1-158th Cavalry of Annapolis, Maryland. They have been mobilized since June of 2007, and are the first two units to return from the 58^th IBCT. We are very proud of their accomplishments while they were overseas, and know that their families are very happy to have them home again. Welcome Back!

Approximately 60 members of the MDARNG’S 224th Area Support Medical Company in Laurel, MD held its mobilization ceremony Easter Monday, 24 March 08, before deploying to Fort Lewis, Washington for training prior to their deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Gov. O’Malley was the keynote speaker.

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 MARYLAND GUARD COMBAT DEATH
 

It was recently announced that SFC Collin J. Bowen of C Company, 1st Battalion, 175th Infantry Regiment based in Towson was severely injured in early January, the result of an IED attack in Khowst Province, Afghanistan. He was transported to the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas where he passed 14 March 08.  SSG Bowen’s family was with him at the time of his passing.  He was from Millersville, MD and leaves behind a wife and three daughters.

Governor Martin O’Malley ordered both U.S. and State Flags flown at half staff on March 25, 2008 in SFC Bowen’s honor. 

SSG Bowen was assigned to the Afghanistan National Army Embedded Training Team in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The attack on SSG Bowen occurred just two weeks prior to his deploying home. Three other comrades from both the PA and SC Army National Guard were also killed as a result of the January 2nd incident as well as an Afghan interpreter. 

SSG Bowen is the seventh Maryland Army National Guardsman to lose his life in support of the Global War on Terrorism and the first Maryland Army National Guard casualty as part of Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan.) 

  The Maryland Army National Guard casualties

  PFC Carlton D Newman of Landover (March 3, 2005)

  SGT Brian R. Conner of Baltimore (October 14, 2005)

  CPL Bernard L. Ceo of Baltimore (October 15, 2005)

  CPL Samuel M. Boswell of Elkridge (October 14, 2005)

  SSG Michael McMullen of Salisbury (January 10, 2006)

  CSM Roger W. Haller of Davidsonville (January 20, 2007)

  SSG Collin J. Bowen of Millersville, MD (March 14, 2008)

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 BONUS POLICY EXTENDED THRU 31 MAY 08
 

Extension of ARNG SRIP Guidance for FY 2007 (Policy Number 07-06) has been extended out to 31 May 2008 with two changes.  Eligibility for the REB for a Non-Critical MTOE unit (paragraph 14. i. (4)) for RTI, Training Areas, and MEDDAC units (Medical TDA units) is re-instated effective 27 Mar 08.  The stabilization waiver required in paragraph 14.j.(9) is rescinded effective 27 Mar 08.

Point of contact for this information is your BCC (BN Career Counselor.)  If you don’t know who they are, contact MSG Beares glenn.beares@us.army.mil 410/979-3762 or SFC Wittman william.wittman@us.army.mil 410/979-3897.

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IRS ECONOMIC STIMULUS PAYMENTS FOR VETS & FAMILIES
   

The IRS has outlined economic stimulus payments for veterans & their families. “Leave no man behind” is a proud military tenet, but it also has application in everyday life.  Hundreds of thousands of veterans and their survivors are at risk of being left behind when it comes to the economic stimulus payments that will be paid this summer.

Congress passed, and President Bush signed into law, a provision to pay so-called “rebates” to Americans who file tax returns.  In so doing, they also extended the payments to include veterans and Social Security recipients who ordinarily do not have to even file a tax return.  The minimum payment for those who qualify is $300 for individuals and $600 for married couples filing a joint income tax return.  

Since some veterans and their survivors do not make enough income to have to file a tax form (perhaps you know some), there is great concern that they might miss the opportunity to receive money coming to them.  

This year, anyone who does not otherwise have to file anything with the IRS will want to send in a tax form in order to receive a stimulus payment, according to IRS officials.  This applies to veterans and their survivors who receive certain pension and disability payments which are not taxable.  

Here is how it works -- Those who have no tax liability and are not required to file a tax return may qualify for a minimum payment of $300 ($600 if filing a joint return) if they send the IRS a simple tax return that reflects $3,000 or more in qualifying income.  For the purpose of the stimulus payments, qualifying income includes veterans’ disability compensation, and pension or survivors’ benefits received from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2007

Officials emphasized that people with no filing requirement who turn in a tax return to qualify for the economic stimulus payment will not get a tax bill.  People in this category will not owe money because of the stimulus payment.  The stimulus payments are not taxable.

For further information and details on these economic stimulus payments, go to the Web at www.IRS.gov.  Just click on “Rebate questions” link.  IRS officials want to make sure that no one who is qualified for a payment gets left behind.  (Information courtesy of the IRS and AFRNS.)

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   ART PROJECT  ç Openings NOW available
 

SSG Jamie Jones, an Army reservist who has been deployed, is currently a graduate student intern at Baltimore’s MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art.)   He would like to offer a series of Saturday workshops for all MD Guardsmen who are serving or are vets (retired or otherwise.) These workshops will allow service members to be able to tell their story – esp. those who have served with OIF/OEF -- through the medium of art, specifically clay tiles. The workshops will begin in April, and will run through June. In July the completed artwork will be put on display at MICA. Although not required it is preferred that those that participate in the workshops participate for the duration. For more info, contact SSG Jones at: 504-669-9556 ramonejones@msn.com

Saturday Workshops (Full participation not required – but preferred; late entry okay)

April 5th: 1400-1700; 19th: 1200-1500

May 3rd: 1200-1500; 24th: 1200-1500

June 14th: 1200-1500; 21st: 1200-1500

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OUTDOOR NIGHT AT THE MOVIES  ç April reservations
 

Please join the Soldiers and families from the 1/158^th Cav  (Annapolis), a recently returned Iraq unit, for an Outdoor Night at the Movies at the Outdoor Amphitheater at Anne Arundel Community College, Friday, May 9th at 8:00 PM. Please RSVP Beth Stoddard (Family Assistance Office) ASAP @ 410-576-2994 or theresa.stoddard@us.army.mil for a Reservation. This event is sponsored by the college.

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VACATIONS FOR VETS PROGRAM  ç starting 18-20 April
 

The Greenwell Foundation, with the support of the local community in St. Mary’s County, MD, has developed a program to offer some respite for our nation's injured service members. "Vacations for Vets(tm)" offers weekend stays at Francis Knott Lodge to disabled veterans currently undergoing treatment at DC Metro area military hospitals and their families.

The participants and their families of all ages (young children, grandparents) are invited.  Participants are eligible based on their interest and with doctor's approval.  No other criteria, including race, gender, or religion applies. These vacations are provided at no cost to the veterans and their families. The program gives vets a break from the daily demands of recovering from their traumatic experiences. It's a way of saying thank you and honoring those who have suffered while serving our country. 

Each weekend begins on Friday afternoon and ends on Sunday after lunch.  Transportation is available from the medical center to Greenwell State Park and back.  During these weekends, service members and their families can participate in activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, hiking, picnicking, fishing, sailing, etc. While activities are offered, the weekend is loosely structured to allow families time to relax and be together in whatever way is most comfortable for them. Because of Greenwell's universally accessible facilities there are no limitations on participants with physical disabilities.  Accessible equipment, such as golf carts, adaptive fishing poles and all terrain wheelchairs, is available.  Meals and snacks are provided.

If you know any wounded veterans and their families who might like to participate, contact Vacation for Vets 301-373-9775 vacationsforvets@greenwellfoundation.org

2008 Schedule

Weekend 1        April 18 - 20

Weekend 2        August 15 - 17

Weekend 3        June 20 - 22

Weekend 4        September 12 - 14

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HERSHEY PARK SEMI-PRIVATE DAY FOR GUARDSMEN  ç 20 April  
 

Hershey Park is inviting Guardsmen from Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey to attend a semi-private day at Hershey Park on Sunday, April 20th, 2008.  Parking is free (usually $10) and the cost of admission is $21 for all ages – usually $48 – and children 2 and under are free.  Hershey Park will be closed to the general public on this day.  This is an opportunity for a great savings and a good time.  To purchase tickets:

   a. Order from the e-ticketing link below (use the PAGUARD username and password)

       https://tickets.hersheypa.com/hersheypark/store.jsp?merchant=PANational#ceShop

       USERNAME: paguard   PASSWORD: hersheybar2008

   b. OR: call 1-800-242-4236 to place an order

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MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT SEMINAR  ç 25-27 April 
 

The next Marriage Enrichment Seminar will be held 25-27 Apr 08 at the Crown Plaza Hotel (formally the Holiday Inn) in Timonium.  We still have seats available.  Contact Bill Turner to register @ 410-576-2990 or email william.s.turner@us.army.mil

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VETERANS MUSTER  ç 26 April
 

The Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a veterans’ muster in Harford County, Saturday, April 26, 2008 from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Harford Mall during their Community Weekend (at: 696-A Bel Air Rd., Bel Air, MD 21014).  You can attend even if retired or still serving.

The purpose of the muster is to increase the awareness of benefits and services offered to veterans by state and nonprofit agencies.  MDVA will be present with a Service Officer and invited representatives from other State agencies, Veteran Service Organizations, Veteran Employment Reps and members of local community organizations.   

POC:  Laurie Atherholt, Dir., Outreach & Advocacy, MD Depart. of Veterans Affairs

(410) 260-3840 www.mdva.state.md.us  

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VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION TRAINING  ç 30 April
 

The final planned Training for Volunteer Orientation, Rear Det, and Military Points of Contact (MPOC) will be held on 30 APR 08 at 5th Regiment Armory (Rm 11) 0900–1200.  To register, contact: Katherine Jenkins 410-576-2995 katherine.m.jenkins@us.army.mil

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OCS INFO WORKSHOP  ç 3 May
 

The last of three scheduled Officer Candidate School Information Workshops will be held on May 3, 2008. During these presentations, the entire OCS program will be covered, including enrollment requirements. There is also a tour of the OCS barracks.  The 70^th will host the upcoming OCS information session at Camp Fretterd in 29^th Division Hall at 1000.

With assistance and command emphasis, we can guide and mentor Soldiers to take the next step in their military career. Sending Soldiers to this workshop and the OCS program benefits both the Soldier and the MDARNG.

OCS seminar information posted at: GKO at the 70^th Reg’t Website (under OCS Bn.)

POCs: MAJ Colette Topfer (Bentley), OCS Co. Cdr, (w) 410-702-9634 © 443-253-1021 colette.topfer@us.army.mil or LT Ron Martin at 410-702-9661.

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MILITARY GETAWAY COUPON  ç 31 May deadline

This getaway package includes 2 nights of lodging at one of the YMCA of the Rockies hotels, 6 all you can eat buffet meals, and guest membership at one of their mountain resorts. Either Estes Park Center (CA) or the Snow Mountain Ranch-YMCA of the Rockies. Bring your family of 4 to the mountains for $80.00

Call 800-777-9622 and mention the military getaway package.  Visit their website for more information: www.ymcarockies.org

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MDARNG UNIT LEVEL CAREER COUNSELOR’S COURSE    31 May – 1 June
 

The Unit Level Career Counselor Course provides instruction for assigned soldiers to assist unit leadership with maintaining 1315 cards, Unit Retention Binders, tracking Authorized Absences, AWOL recovery, Non-Val Pay, Pending ETSs and other retention-related duties.

This two-day course will be held at 29th Division Hall on Camp Fretterd Military Reservation. Units should submit the soldiers’ names on the registration forms obtainable from your unit Battalion Career Counselor.  Sign in will start at 0730 on 31 May 08.  Classes start 0800 each day and should be completed by 1400 on Sunday, 1 Jun 08.  Those requiring billeting must indicate that requirement on the registration form by 16MAY08.  Soldiers requiring billeting should call or email one week in advance to coordinate key handover (bring linen/sleeping bag and any needed class supplies.)  A box lunch will be provided (ADSW and AGR must pay).  Other meals are the soldier’s responsibility. Uniform is ACU with beret.  For further information & to request applications, POC: MSG Beares (w) 410/576-6162 (cell) 410/979-3762 glenn.beares@us.army.mil  Registration NLT 16 May 08.

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THIRD NGAUS CONFERENCE GOLF TOURNAMENT  ç 8 June suspense
 

This fundraiser for the National Guard Association of the US (NGAUS) 2008 Conference to be held in Baltimore, MD (Sep 2008) is scheduled for Monday, June 30, 2008 at 08:30 A.M.  Compass Pointe Golf Course, 9010 Fort Smallwood Rd., Pasadena, MD  21122  www.compasspointegolf.com  Civilians welcomed!  There will be prizes.

Cost: $75 per golfer (includes golf, cart, prizes, continental breakfast and lunch.) 

POC: John Jean 410/561-5442 or Ron Leard 410/576-6193.

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WELCOME HOME FOR OEF & OIF VETS  ç 14 June
 

The Washington, D.C. Veterans Affairs Medical Center is offering a “Welcome Home American Hero” celebration “To serve those who have borne the battle…”: Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) veterans and Service members.  The event will be held Saturday, 14 June 2008, “anytime” between 0900-1500 hrs at the VA Medical Center, 50 Irving St., N.W.,  Washington, D.C. 20422 [call for other locations.]  POC: Paula Gorman 202-745-8100 or Jean Langbein 202-745-8338.

This program is designed to provide outreach services to OEF/OIF veterans and active duty service members and their families.  The celebration will offer valuable information, education and support.  Food, entertainment and giveaways will be provided. The following will be covered: 

• Readjustment Services: Screenings for: adjustment/post deployment counseling, substance abuse treatment  programs, post-traumatic stress counseling, and homeless outreach

• Employment and Academic Support: Veterans Affairs Vocational Rehabilitation, Small Business Administration, colleges and universities, community employment services, DC Vocational Rehabilitation, Dept. of Labor (MD, DC and VA), Compensated Work Therapy, Employer Support Guard and Reserve

• General Health Screenings and Consultative Services: General health screenings including Women’s Health, Infectious Disease, Dermatology and Post-Deployment Health Education

• Veterans’ Benefits: Veterans Benefits Administration, Social Security Administration,  Veteran Service Organizations (claims, benefits and discharge upgrades)

• Other Services: Vet Centers, chaplain services, community housing services, Tricare, Military One Source, Military Severely Injured Center, Team River Runners, VA medical ID cards,

• Plus: My HealtheVet, Army Wounded Warrior and Transition Assistance Advisors

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SCHOLARSHIPS: Not applying for scholarships is like turning down free money!

a.      American Patriot Freedom Scholarship - $1,000/Soldiers & families ç 25 April

Homefront America, a troop-support organization based, recently announced it will, for the third year, award 25 $1,000 scholarships in May 2008 to benefit military children. The scholarship is open to dependent students of active-duty service members, retirees, disabled veterans or fallen service members, including activated or deployed Guardsmen and reservists.  Scholarships candidates must submit 500 words or less essay on one of four approved topics. All applications must be postmarked by April 25, 2008. Complete eligibility requirements and rules at: http://www.homefrontamerica.org/

b.      State Academic Scholarships

In addition to the MDARNG State Education programs and the Montgomery GI Bill (Federal education assistance), your state delegate might have their own scholarship program. Check with your local delegate’s office or website to inquire about a little-advertised program that can help with college tuition for you or your family.

c.       White House Program for Students or Recent Grads    ç 3 June deadline

The White House Internship provides an opportunity to experience day-to-day life at the White House while working on a variety of tasks and projects.  In addition to normal office duties, interns attend weekly lectures, volunteer at special events, participate in tours, and contribute to a community service project in the Washington, D.C. area. White House Internships are unpaid positions and participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation and housing. Approximately 100 interns are chosen each spring, summer, and fall to participate in this highly competitive program.

To apply:  Please read the Intern Application and the White House Office descriptions carefully at: www.whitehouse.gov/government/wh-intern.html  Office descriptions can help you determine your areas of interest and assist you in making an informed decision about which offices might fit your qualifications. Interns will be selected based on their application and demonstrated interest in public service.  Applicants must be:

1. At least 18 years of age on or before the first day of the internship

2. Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at a college or university, or graduated the previous semester

3. A United States citizen

Submit completed application materials to Meghan Espinoza, Intern Coordinator/Office of White House Personnel, at intern_application@whitehouse.gov (202) 456-5979 on or before the following deadline (summer internship deadline has already passed):

Fall Internship: August 26 - December 12, 2008; Application Deadline: June 3, 2008

d.      TOWSON UNIVERSITY OFFERS GRANTS TO MILITARY         ç NEW!

Towson University will begin offering Thank You Grants to qualified U.S. military personnel and recent veterans, beginning with Fall 2008 term.  Thank You Grants will reward active-duty personnel and veterans for their service by helping to defray the cost of attending Towson.  The grants are intended to supplement Veterans Administration (VA) education benefits

The program awards up to $500 per term for eight terms for eligible students: newly admitted, currently enrolled and readmitted veterans or active-duty service members.  Full-time students who meet all criteria would receive $500, with part-time students receiving $250 per term. Recipients must have degree-seeking status at TU.

Applicants are also required to have been on active-duty status for no fewer than 12 months; veterans must have been released from service after October 24, 2001. Those on release status must be eligible for VA benefits. For a complete list of Thank You Grant eligibility requirements, go to https://inside.towson.edu/ScholarshipSeeker/SearchMain.cfm

POC: Jan Lucas 410-704-3297 jlucas@@towson.edu (University Relations, Towson University)

 410-704-2230 or Tracy E. Miller (Academic Advisor & Coordinator of National Student Exchange Towson University) 410-704-3583

e.      Free SAT-ACT (College Entrance Exam) Software - $200 Value

For the second year, a group of NFL, NFL Europe, AFL and CFL football players have sponsored several million dollars worth of $199 SAT and ACT test prep programs for every family in the U.S. Military (all branches-active or retired). Specifically, the sponsorship allows any military person (active or retired) to request as many programs as they need for their students. The DoD has created a secure website to quickly confirm military status. Personnel can access the confirmation and request pages through several military-related associations & organizations, including the Military Home Front web site. Family pays only S&H. For further info about the program: http://sat.eknowledge.com/military.asp  About the products: www.eknowledge.com

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 MORALE, WELFARE AND RECREATION (MWR) PROGRAMS

       SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT:  25^th ANNUAL US ARMY SOLDIER SHOW     

<26-27 April, Aberdeen Proving Grounds; 30 April, Ft. Meade; 3 May, Ft. Detrick>

To celebrate the Silver Anniversary of the modern U.S. Army Soldier Show -- “entertainment for the Soldier, by the Soldier” – and since it is dedicated this year to all deployed troops in the Middle East, it will be held in a simulated deployed setting with special effects. This is to create an impression for the audience that they’ve been transported to the Middle East in a combat area. This fits with a program that “Since they’re not taking the show to Baghdad, they’re bringing Baghdad to the show” states the show’s press release. 

Talented Soldiers will perform in only three military bases in MD: Aberdeen Proving Grounds on 26 & 27 April; Ft. Meade, 30 April (7 pm at the Fort Meade Pavilion), and 3 May at Ft. Detrick.  It’s FREE and open to the public.  Guardsmen may invite their families and friends.  In fact, the Army National Guard is the primary partner.  At the Ft. Meade show, Guardsmen are entitled to 16 VIP seats.  If they are not claimed 10 minutes prior to the show (6:50pm), they will be released to the general public. No details at press time on Aberdeen or Detrick show times or seating arrangements. Go to their websites listed below for additional details or contact information.  

[Directions to Ft. Meade show: From the Balto/Washington Parkway, I-95, or RT 32, take the exit that says MD RT 175 (Annapolis Road) Fort Meade.  Stay on RT 175 and look for the large colorful marquee at the Llewellyn Avenue entrance. Turn into the entrance and follow the directions to parking. The Pavilion will be the large white structure in front of you.

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUNDS

For Travel, Entertainment & other MWR programs:

Contact the MWR Leisure Travel Office, 410-278-4011/4907, or visit them at the AA Recreation Center, bldg 3326 Erie St., APG or email them through their website www.apgmwr.com/travel.html  

To register for classes:

Call the Central Registration Office, 410-278-7571/7479, located in bldg 2752 for an appointment.  POC for info: Stacie Umbarger 410-278-4589 stacie.umbarger@apg.army.mil 2752 Rodman Rd, Rm 206, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD.  Classes are open to all DoD ID card holders and their children.  Most classes are broken down into age groups (ages 5-thru-18 years old.)  If you have ideas for other classes, please go to this web site to request classes you’d like to see for your children: www.apgmwr.com/family/skiessurveyform.aspx 

• Brazilian Jujitsu for Kids  ç April 22-May 22

• Drivers' Education  ç some classes start 21 April

• Parent/Child 2^nd Annual Golf Tournament (ages 7-16) ç Registration 23 June

• Other Classes (contact MWR for details)

• Discounted Show Tickets (can be mailed)               

FORT MEADE

For more information on these and other MWR programs, events, activities, jobs and special offers, go to: www.ftmeademwr.com

• Wii Tournament  ç 14 Apr                                        

• Saturday Flea Markets  ç 12 April

• Spring Sprint 5K/Murphy Field House  ç 19 April

• Month of the Military Child Fun Fair  ç 19 April

• BUNCO  ç 21 April

• 2^nd Annual Motorcycle Show & Patriotic Ride  ç 26 April

• Job Fair/Club Meade (301/674-5240)  ç 30 April

• Pet Expo  ç 3 May

• Ladies Night Out  ç 8 May

• “A Night on the Town” 91^st Anniversary Gala  ç 9 May

• Broadway-bound 1-Day Saturday Bus Trip to NYC  ç 21 June

• MD, DC and FL attractions:  discount tickets also available.

• Bowling & Golf

FORT DETRICK

For more information on these and other MWR programs, events, activities and special offers, go to www.detrick.army.mil/mwr

• Texas Hold'em Tournament  ç 14 Apr Sign-up Deadline

• Matting & Framing Classes  ç 16 & 30 April

• Homebuyer's Workshop ç 22 April

• Family Fun Day  ç 24 April

• Keeping Kids Safe Event  ç 24 April

• "Mom and Me"  ç 30 April

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 MARYLAND VETERANS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH BILL
 

In Maryland, Senate Bill 210 was passed unanimously by the Senate on 13 March 2008. The legislation known as the "Maryland Veterans Behavioral Health" bill is aimed at providing a safety net for veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars who are having difficulties getting behavioral health services.

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SHIRT SIZE ON EXTENSIONS…PLEASE!
 

On all extensions, please write the Soldier’s shirt-size on the bottom. If they extend for 6 years, then we need the spouse’s shirt size as well.  This is for the Extension incentives.

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