Over the past month or so, my stream of blogs has diminished to a trickle.  I apologize to all the regular readers, but preparations for the redeployment of the 314th PAOC back to the United States has been a big undertaking.  As Army Reserve Soldiers, we all realize the impact that redeployment will have on all of us and out familiees, as the resources available to us diminish and/or change once we return home.

I would like to remind all family members and friends of the 314th of a few programs available to Soldiers and their families once they arrive back home.

1.  VA.  The Department of Veterans Affairs has many programs and services for Soldiers.  Some of the most important are the educational and medical benefits. 

a.  The GI Bill educational benefits changed as of August 1, 2009, and now allows a qualified Soldier to transfer his or her entitlements to a spouse or children.  For more information, our Soldiers here have the opportunity to meet with a local Education Center briefer on November 4; those of you at home can check out the program at http://www.gibill.va.gov/.  In addition to the transferability, the new GI Bill has some changes that could impact the amount A Soldier receives for other things like books and housing.  As always, I encourage you and your Soldier to meet with your local VA educational representative to figure out what is best option.

b.  The VA Healthcare System includes hospitals and outpatient clinics across the country.  When we redeploy back through Fort Dix, one of our briefings will be on this program.  Every Soldier will fill out a VA Form 1010EZ that automatically enrolls each of us into the VA Healthcare System in our home state.  During that first five years after our deployment, Soldiers are able to see treatment for conditions related to deployment.

c.  Other stuff.  In addition to these programs, Soldiers also become eligible for VA home loans and employment preference for government jobs.  Check out http://www.va.gov/ for details.

2.  TRICARE.  The military healthcare system is called TRICARE, and while Soldiers are deployed and in the final stage of preparing to deploy, they and their family enjoy treatment though this program.  Thanks to changes a few years ago, Army Reserve Soldiers also have access after they return home.

a.  Unless one of our unit members is returning to a government job, they will likely qualify for the Transitional Assistance Management Program, or TAMP.  This program allows Soldiers and family members to continue on TRICARE at little or no cost if you meet certain eligibility criteria.  That criteria will be confirmed at Fort Dix once we receive our DD 214.  EVERY TPU SOLDIER WILL GET THEIR TAMP CARD BEFORE DEPARTING FORT DIX.  TAMP gives Army Reserve Soldiers 180 days of TRICARE Standard, or TRICARE Prime if you ask for that program.  Go to http://www.tricare.mil/Transparency/ to see the difference costs and benefits these two TRICARE programs.

b.  After your TAMP coverage ends, Army Reserve Soldiers can continue TRICARE coverage with TRICARE Reserve Select, for a relatively low cost.  Check out the program here: www.tricare.mil/reserve/reserveselect/index.cfm.

The cost is only $47.51 per month for an individual, and $180.17 for a family.  If you were enrolled in TRS before you were activated, your coverage will not automatically resume.  You can visit the Guard and Reserve Web Portal at https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/appj/trs/ and follow the instructions to re-purchase the plan.

You must have your TRS Request Form (DD Form 2896-1) in the mail and postmarked within 60 days of the last day of your previous TRICARE coverage (e.g., active duty benefits, TAMP), to receive continuous benefits.

Each 314th Soldiers received details about Army Reserve dental coverage and telephone numbers with more information.

3.  Strong Bonds.  FINALLY we are coming home.  Do you need a free 3-day retreat when your Soldier returns home (transportation provided)?  Or maybe you are single Soldier who wants a chance to relax and recharge? 

If you will reside in the 81st RSC region (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina or Tennessee) upon your return home — this information is for you.  (IF YOU RESIDE IN ANOTHER AREA OF THE US, CONTACT THE RSC CHAPLAIN’S OFFICE THERE FOR MORE INFORMATION)

The 81st RSC is sponsoring Strong Bonds events in 2010 at no cost to you (and your spouse).  This is a perfect way to re-connect with a spouse, or just enjoy a weekend with other Army Reserve single Soldiers.  Strong Bonds is a unit-based, chaplain-led program that helps Soldiers and their families build strong relationships.  The program website is http://www.strongbonds.org

Each 314th Soldier has received the forms necessary to apply for a weekend in great places like Atlanta, New Orleans, Orlando, or Hilton Head, SC.

4.  WFAC.  I’ve saved the best for last with the Warrior and Family Assistance Center.  The staff here have a motto, “Whatever It Takes,” and they mean it.  They are a one-stop shop to connect Soldiers and their family members with military organizations, government agencies and others who can solve problems.  It doesn’t matter what you need — administrative, medical, legal, financial, benefits, personnel actions, family counseling, etc. — the staff will help Soldiers and family members.  You can see their website at www.arfp.org/wfac or call them 24/7 at 1-866-436-6290.   I’ve personally met and worked with the staff herer, and they are committed to helping Army Reserve Soldiers and families.