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3 Special Pandemic Pay & Incentives You Need to Know

05/20/2020 By Meg Flanagan

With so much of our US military operating under special conditions due to the pandemic, many troops who might otherwise qualify for special duty pay might not meet monthly requirements. However, the DOD has released guidance to help commands and service members navigate options related to pay during the pandemic.

3 Special Pandemic Pay & Incentives You Need to Know

The military is being tasked with different duties and roles, as well as having normal operations and troop movements disrupted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In response to these unprecedented times, the US Department of Defense has released several guidance letters to commanders across the services to support troops.

Special Duty Pay You Typically Receive

Many military specialities receive monthly special duty pay for performing aspects of their jobs. For example, pilots, flight crews and aviation maintenance crews all receive additional pay for these duties. However, this pay may be tied to achieving minimum monthly hours performing in this role, such as flight hours.

With many troops tasked elsewhere or no longer doing their typical jobs, those monthly hours are not being logged. This could remove that special duty pay from the next pay check.

The DOD has announced that troops who typically receive such pay incentives but cannot perform those duties as a direct result of COVID-19 shutdowns, may have recourse.

The Service Secretary for each branch of the military now has the option to waive those requirements for special duty pay.

This would mean that you could continue to receive that special duty pay even if you are unable to perform that specific job due to the pandemic.

In order to see if you qualify, speak to your unit chain of command.

Restriction of Movement Hardship Duty Pay

Some troops may be ordered to self-quarantine in a location other than their home due to possible exposure to COVID-19. In some cases, there may be additional hardship duty pay available to help defray costs associated with the quarantine.

In order to qualify, troops must be lodging somewhere other than their own home, government quarters or a hotel paid for at government expense. In other words, the hotel is being paid for out of pocket by an individual and is not going to be submitted for reimbursement later.

For troops who meet this criteria, there is an allowance of up to $100 per day and $1500 per month for costs associated with self-quarantine in a hotel.

To find out if you qualify, please speak to your chain of command.

Carry-Over Leave Max Cap Extended

With leave still allowed, but restricted to the service member’s local area only, many troops may not be taking leave in the near future. In addition, many military personnel are also working from home if possible and may require less leave time than previously. Since so much of the country are shut down, even in areas around military bases, taking leave may not be high on anyone’s to-do list.

Now, troops do not have to worry about exceeding the previous 60-day leave cap. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper announced recently that troops who are “performing acting service” may rollover up to 120 days of leave through September 30, 2023.

This temporary policy change would prevent troops from losing unused leave time, as would previously happen with the 60-day cap. The change recognizes the changes in troop movements and responsibilities as a result of the pandemic, as well as the necessity of time off for force readiness and overall troop health.

As the current global health crisis evolves, and hopefully resolves, in the coming months, monitor updated DOD policies and other force changes.

Financial Counselors Available Virtually

If you are struggling with your finances or have been impacted financially by the pandemic, personal financial counselors are available to support you virtually.

Counseling services are offered without cost to service members and their families. All counselors are certified in financial counseling and education.

Contact your local Family Center for more information.

Have you been impacted financially by the pandemic? Sound off in the comments!

What You Need to Know About TRICARE, the Military Health System and COVID-19

05/18/2020 By Military Life Administrator

During the COVID-19 Pandemic taking care of your health can be confusing especially when it comes to navigating TRICARE and the Military Health System. Even a cough generates the question do I have the “Corona”? Other questions can be admin related such as my ID card has expired. Rumors are rampant so here is where you can find accurate and updated information.

Accurate Information

Did you know TRICARE is on Facebook? This is a great source of information.  The latest  TRICARE on Facebook post gives information about using the emergency room at a military hospital during the pandemic and the steps taken to insure your safety. Another place to find detailed information is the official Tricare Corona Virus page on their website. Great accurate up to date information and frequently asked questions. It also has a section of symptoms and signs of Corona Virus. It gave a better explanation for me than I had seen anywhere else.

ID Cards

One of the big questions is what do I do if my ID Card expires? Service Members can renew online.  For family members and military retirees if your Uniformed Services ID (ID card) expired on or after Jan. 1, 2020 you can continue to use your card until Sept. 30, 2020 to receive care and fill prescriptions. If you have a new family member for TRICARE, make sure all their information is updated into the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). You will then be able to mail, fax or email your paperwork to your nearest ID card issuing facility. For more information visit ID Card Online Office.

Telemedicine

I recently had a routine medical appointment over the phone. It worked well for just basic questions and updates on my existing condition. What is you have new illness or symptoms of COVID-19? Contact the Military Health System (MHS) Nurse Advice Line. A Military Health System registered nurse can answer your questions as well as assess your symptoms over the phone. They can screen you as well for COVID-19. They can coordinate follow up medical visits with a health care provider either virtually or in person depending on the medical condition. Important: When you receive a call, it will show up as blocked or unknown. Make sure to answer during your appointment time.

COVID – 19 Myths vs. Facts

The TRICARE website also has a section of Myths vs Facts and I found it highly informative. It has detailed information on why and how to wear a mask and dispels the myth that homemade cloth masks aren’t effective. They are and the site has suggestions on how to wear, material etc.

Another myth is there are no resources for children to help them cope. Here are two: Military Kids Connect and Sesame Street for Military Families.

One way you can help is to share Coronavirus infographics such as the one on this page on your social media. The TRICARE Facebook page has a bunch to choose from. If you do share information on social media make sure it is from reliable, vetted sources.

Sign up for TRICARE Email Alerts to stay up to date on the latest news.

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com

Easy Tips for a Perfect Pandemic Military Haircut

05/14/2020 By Meg Flanagan

It’s been approximately one million days of pandemic self-isolation. And while mostly everyone is working from home, those male military regulation haircuts are looking a little scruffy.

Ladies in the military, I’m sorry. This post is for all the gents out there because they’ve got to keep it high and tight.

Now, look, no one wants to leave the house because germs. Which 100% removes going to the barber as an option.

What’s a hard-charging guy to do? Enlist his spouse to do the perfect fade for him, of course!

Easy Tips for a Perfect Pandemic Military Haircut

Editor’s Note: no Marines were physically harmed in the haircutting process detailed in this article. However, his pride was deeply wounded.

And that’s exactly what my husband did in April. Suddenly, I needed to learn how to do a zero to three fade on his head. Perfect symmetry was a must, obviously, as well as a faultless blend.

What follows is my documentation of that attempt. Full disclosure: he wouldn’t submit to pictures being taken during this journey. You’ll understand why.

Pre-Cut Research

I’ve seen my husband’s gorgeous Devil Dog-authorized military cut for over a decade. But I’ve never attempted to administer this cut myself. However, duty called and I responded, “Aye-aye!”

Before I whipped out the clippers, I wanted to do a little research first. So I turned to my trusty ally: YouTube.

After watching this guy cut his own hair, I felt ready to tackle my husband’s hair.

Clippers were oiled and a suitable salon-worthy cape was acquired. Ready for action.

In Which I Attempt a Marine Corps Fade

Things didn’t go well from the start. Even with a complete walkthrough in the video, when confronted with an actual head of hair, I felt woefully unprepared.

Still, he needed to meet regulations and I was the only one around to support him. Before firing up the Wahl, I triple checked that he didn’t want to just attempt this himself.

“How bad could it be?”

Oh, we were about to find out.

The first pass at the base of his neck went well. and I got the zero part of his cut done nicely.

The first issue popped up as I attempted to move to the next section: not zero.

Giving a Perfect Military Haircut is Hard!

Fun fact: heads are lumpy and bumpy, making symmetrical haircuts a challenge under the best of circumstances. These were not the best of circumstances.

My clippers slipped a little and suddenly that zero cut was reaching a lot higher up the back of his head.

No worries, I can totally fix this when I blend.

I moved on to the next segment and swapped in a new clipper guard. As I attempted to mix the completely shaved section of hair into the very low buzzed section, I started to feel like I was in over my head.

Not helping matters was the fact that my spouse is 6’3′. I’m 5’9″, but even sitting in a chair, it was hard to move my body around to keep things even.

The Tight Part Gets Higher

As lines kept zigging and zagging, I kept trying to adjust. Suddenly, that tight part of the haircut was very high on his head.

Oops.

Also, I 100% gave him an out from this disaster and he refused. It’s basically his own fault.

Again, I paused and let him assess the damage. Yes, even the very high and very tight sections.

Still, he insisted that it could be “fixed.” I, however, was losing my very limited faith in both myself and my video instructor. This was not going according to his video. Although, operator error was likely a factor.

Admitting Defeat in the Quest for a Military Reg Pandemic Cut At Home

I made a valiant attempt to do damage control, as requested. But what ended up happening was that things got a whole lot balder.

Truly, I tried to make things seem okay. I even switched out the guard for a longer attachment for the top section.

But there was just no saving this ‘do from the inevitable.

Because we were doing this at the kitchen table, there wasn’t a mirror immediately available for him to check on my progress. I just had a handheld one for quick checks.

As I kept going, at his insistence that it couldn’t be that bad, I lost it. Tears sprang to my eyes as I took in the ruin of his hair. I was sad, but also trying to keep the giggles from erupting and revealing just how badly I had done.

Finally, I lost control. There was no way that this haircut could be salvaged from the inevitable.

I broke it to my sweet, trusting husband gently.

“Babe, you’re gonna lose it all.”

He shuddered, but agreed once he looked at my attempt in the mirror. He handed over the clippers once again and I got to work. This time, I didn’t even attempt to use anything other than the lowest setting, evening everything out to “zero.”

Lessons were learned by all during this trying time.

First, don’t get attached to your hair. And second, lean into the bald look. It’s technically military regulation approved!

What’s your funniest at-home haircut story? Sound off in the comments!

Nation, States Face Tough Choices Over Reopening

05/13/2020 By Meg Flanagan

As states across the US started to issue stay-at-home orders, the main topic has been when our country would reopen. Now, states face tough choices over reopening: how fast, how much, how soon.

Nation, States Face Tough Choices Over Reopening

The subject of reopening and resuming normal life has been batted around by politicians, medical experts and media pundits for weeks. There has been lots of information released on every side of this issue.

We’ve found stats and facts, backed by reliable experts in the field and from a variety of media sources, to help explain what’s a stake.

Differing Realities Across All 50 States

The reality is that infection rates and death tolls look different in every state right now. There are clear hotbeds, like New York City, and places where COVID-19 seems to have barely arrived, like Montana.

On that same note, each state has implemented a variety of different techniques to reduce spread and treat those who are ill.

With so much difference in spread and response, each state and, in some cases, individual counties or cities, will likely need to “reopen” on a variety of timelines.

There is no one hard or fast answer here. What works for one city, county or state might nor work universally.

States Should Remain Closed – For Now

There are many who believe that states should remain closed until infection and death toll reductions benchmarks have been reached in order to prevent further spread of the virus.

Right now, the CDC projections show a national increase in total COVID-19 deaths by early August. This increase currently predicts 137,000 COVID-19 related deaths, as of May 4, in a model by the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington.

The latest model reflects a doubling of the projected death toll as compared to the IHME’s April 17 predictions. That early prediction estimated approximately 60,000 deaths by August. The US has surpassed that estimate, with almost 80,000 dead in mid-May.

Per a May 7 report, the daily death toll was predicted to reach and hover around 3,000 per day by June 1. This prediction is based on data compiled by FEMA and many believe that returning to business as usual too soon could lead to an increase in this already high projected death toll.

In fact, scientific models seem to support that there will be an increase in infections and deaths, should states reopen partially or fully prior to meeting White House and CDC guidelines. The IHME modified their projections based on the expectation of relaxed social distancing and increased travel.

“(R)ising mobility in most U.S. states as well as the easing of social distancing measures expected in 31 states by May 11, indicating that growing contacts among people will promote transmission of the coronavirus,” the IHME report noted.

We Need to Return to Business as Usual ASAP

There is no doubt that the US has been hard hit economically as a result of the pandemic.

In April, the unemployment rate rose to 14.7% and over 25 million people are now unemployed, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

4.4 million Americans filed for unemployment benefits in the week of April 18. While this is down from 5.2 million the previous week, according to reporting by Fortune.com, but also marks the fifth straight week of new unemployment filings over 3 million.

Many are worried about further economic collapse should the economy and businesses remain shutdown in the longer term. There have been protests in many states and cities pushing for immediate, full reopening of their states.

Photo Credit: ©olezzo /Adobe Stock

White House and CDC Reopening Guidelines

The White House and CDC have issued a multi-phase plan to help guide states as they consider reopening.

Each phase has infection and death toll benchmarks that indicate initiation and progression to the next phase.

  • Initial Data Requirement Suggestions: in order to consider reopening, the White House recommends that states have a 14-day downward trajectory in flu-like symptoms and COVID-19 like symptoms. It is also recommended that states observe a downward trend of documented or tested COVID-19 cases in the 2 week period. Hospitals should also be operating outside of crisis mode, with the ability to treat all patients. There should also be a robust testing program

Cautious Reopening Under White House Guidelines

While these phases of reopening provide a blueprint for the nation, states are not required to adhere to them. They are merely suggestions from the White House and CDC.

Phase 1: the initial data should indicate a general downward trend in infections over a 2 week period with a return to non-crisis healthcare with robust COVID-19 testing.

  • Individuals: all vulnerable individuals should remain sheltering in place. Everyone should be respecting maximizing social distance protocols and avoiding all gatherings of over 10 people. When in situations when where social distance cannot be maintained, protections, like face masks and increased hand washing, should be practiced. Non-essential travel should be limited and all travel should be followed by a period of self-isolation.
  • Businesses: all businesses should encourage telework as much as possible. If employees must remain at work, closing common areas to prevent the spread of possible infection is recommended. Non-essential business travel should be avoided.
  • Schools: all schools that are currently closed should remain closed
  • Gyms: should only reopen if strict physical distancing is possible
  • Senior Citizens: visits to nursing homes and assisted care facilities should be avoided
  • Large Venues: sports stadiums, places of worship and concert venues should remain closed
  • Bars: stay closed

Phase 2: there should not be a rebound to pre-Phase 1 infection rates with a continued downward trend in order to proceed.

  • Individuals: vulnerable individuals should stay at home, but gatherings of up to 50 people can resume with appropriate physical distancing maintained
  • Travel: non-essential travel can resume
  • Businesses: continue to support telework as much as possible
  • Schools: can reopen
  • Gyms: can remain open with strict physical distancing and sanitation
  • Senior Citizens: avoid visiting nursing homes
  • Large Venues: can reopen with moderate physical distancing protocols
  • Restaurants/Bars: bars may operate as standing room only with a limited capacity; restaurants can operate with moderate physical distancing and limited capacity

Phase 3: there should be no rebound to pre-Phase 1 infection rates with a continued downward trend in order to proceed

  • Individuals: vulnerable individuals can break self-isolation, but maintain physical distancing. Everyone else should minimize the time spent in close proximity to others.
  • Travel: non-essential travel can continue
  • Businesses: no restrictions on staffing in any sector
  • Schools: remain open
  • Gyms: can remain open, with proper sanitation protocols
  • Senior Citizens: visitors are welcome, with strict hygiene practices being followed
  • Large Venues: can resume with limited physical distancing practice
  • Restaurants/Bars: bars may operate with increased occupancy, but remain standing room only. Restaurants can resume operations with limited physical distancing protocols

What do you think of the White House’s reopening guidelines? Sound off in the comments!

DeCA to begin daily health screenings of everyone who works in commissaries on May 8

05/11/2020 By Military Life Administrator

DeCA Corporate Communications

May 4, 2020
Thumbnail

FORT LEE, Va. – On May 8, the Defense Commissary Agency will begin daily health screenings of anyone who works in commissaries – including employees, baggers and affiliated contractors – before they start their shifts.

Commissaries will initially conduct the screenings with a questionnaire that focuses on any visible symptoms related to COVID-19, and traces their travel history as well as potential connections with anyone affected by the virus.

As stores receive their infrared thermometers, the screening will include temperature checks. If a temperature check determines anyone is a potential risk, they will be directed to go home and contact their health care provider. They can return to work once they have no signs of a fever or illness, and they will be screened again.

“Military resale is good at evolving and adapting, and screening the people who work in our stores is the first step in a new normal that helps reduce the risk of transmission for everyone,” said Rear Adm. (retired) Robert J. Bianchi, DOD Special Assistant for Commissary Operations. “We should expect to operate like this for the foreseeable future.”

Bianchi, who is also the CEO of the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM), said his Navy Exchange stores are also preparing to implement these procedures for the personnel working in their facilities.  

“There are probably going to be many commercial businesses that start implementing temperature checks for employees and wearing of face coverings, so this should be no surprise to anyone as they may experience this in many aspects of their personal lives,” he said.

The employee health screenings are the latest in a series of safety measures commissaries have implemented:

  • Anyone (including customers) entering a store must wear a face covering
  • Stores have plexiglass sneeze shields in all regular checkout lanes
  • Commissary personnel wipe down checkout areas, product display cases, restrooms and shopping carts with disinfectant, and practice routine hand washing and other basic sanitation measures
  • Touchless credit card processing eliminates the need for the customer to sign
  • Customers scan their own ID cards so cashiers can provide them touchless transactions
  • Reusable bag usage has been banned
  • Only authorized customers – this includes disabled veterans with VHIC cards – will be able to enter a commissary. Visitors will no longer be allowed to accompany authorized customers and a 100% ID check is in place
  • DeCA canceled special events such as the spring sidewalk sales, in-store product demonstrations (including DeCA’s free coffee program), group tours, vendor-sponsored events and other events to discourage group gatherings
  • Commissaries are working with installation leadership and public health personnel to implement risk reduction practices such as designated store hours for various patron groups, and limiting the number of patrons in the store.

Commissary customers should continue to refer to the federal government’s response to coronavirus, COVID-19 website and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Coronavirus site for updates and guidance regarding this virus. Updates related to the commissaries can be found on DeCA’s Coronavirus page.

-DeCA-

What It’s Like to Lose a Loved One During the COVID-19 Pandemic

05/07/2020 By Military Life Administrator

It’s Wednesday morning and I am in the air flying to my father’s funeral. It is so surreal to be experiencing this during the Covid-19 pandemic. In some ways, it is so much harder and in others way things are simpler. My father passed away on Monday of an emergency not the corona virus.

My father a retired naval officer lived in a Louisiana State Veteran’s Home. My Mother received a call there was a complication from a minor medical procedure and they were taking him by ambulance to the hospital. My Mother called the family and then proceeded to wait in the emergency room parking lot. She saw my Dad go into the hospital from the ambulance but was not allowed to be with him. The staff was kind to my mother and came out to update her that he had arrived and the doctor would come out once he had examined Dad. My Mom updated us and we weren’t thinking that anything was serious.

Death

Dying during a pandemic is a terrible way to die because you are alone. The doctor came out to see my mom and was full of empathy as he informed my mother that my dad had passed away while she sat in the car alone in the emergency room parking lot. My poor mother called everyone from the car and continued to wait in the parking lot until she could see my father for the last time. The wait involved waiting for the coroner. Finally, she was able to go into to see my father which was a real blessing for her. The last time she had seen him was through the window of the nursing home as no visitors were allowed. The doctor escorted my mother into see dad and he was so thoughtful. When my mom expressed a wish that her children could see him he helped her take a photo that she could share with us. She mentioned to me when she shared the story how young the doctor was. I couldn’t imagine how much death he had seen in his short career.

Getting There

After the shock subsided, all the questions emerged. Can we have a funeral? Should I fly? Is it risky to be with my mom coming from Washington State? Is it dangerous for me to go to Louisiana? My husband jumped into gear and was already looking into flights while I was on the phone. He said something that really resonated with me. “We got this, we are a military family and they aren’t like other families.” So true and with the precision of an operations order, flights were booked, notifications and decisions made. Due to travel restrictions for my husband and my son distant learning we decided I would go alone.

Flights were a little challenging as there were limited options. Luckily, I was flying out of a major airport and although I couldn’t fly into Baton Rouge the nearest airport I was able to get into New Orleans is only an hour drive away. A positive is that last minute flights are much less than they normally are and first class was not an expensive upgrade.

The Funeral

We were all nervous as to what would happen due to all the news stories about morgues and funeral homes overwhelmed. We lucked out and everything was arranged very quickly but also very sad. We can’t have a catholic funeral mass which is tragic for our family. We are only allowed 10 people in a cemetery service. One thing my dad has always expressed a wish for was to have military honors and that is not an option at this time. So even though it is very difficult it is also simpler with easy decisions and much less expense for my father’s estate.

The Silver Lining

My mother is 80 and I was worried about her and the fact we couldn’t travel. I am able to go spend a week with her. I am very grateful for the resilience I have built during my years as a military spouse that kicks in at times like these. I know I will get through this but I have to admit it is tough. So this is what it is like to lose a loved one during these times. Reach out to those you love especially the older ones. Call or use snail mail and connect in these uncertain times. You won’t regret it.

My Dad, LCDR (ret) Noel Daigle

Marguerite Cleveland is a freelance writer who specializes in human interest and travel stories. She is a military brat, a veteran and now a military spouse.  Her military experience is vast as the daughter of a Navy man who served as an enlisted sailor and then Naval Officer. She served as an enlisted soldier in the reserves and on active duty, then as an Army Officer. She currently serves as a military spouse. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two sons. Visit her website www.PeggyWhereShouldIGo.com

What You Need to Know Now About the Feres Doctrine

05/06/2020 By Meg Flanagan

Troops are reliant on the military medical machine. But there isn’t much, if any, recourse when something goes awry. For years, the Feres Doctrine has prevented military personnel from doing anything.

With a late 2019 legal decision, the Feres Doctrine loosened up and finally gave troops options to seek justice when their medical care isn’t up to par.

What You Need to Know Now About the Feres Doctrine

Just what exactly these changes mean for you, your family and your medical is an important issue. One that we all need to be tracking as things shift.

What Is the Feres Doctrine?

In 1950, the Supreme Court handed down a decision that greatly expanded immunity for the US government.

It’s connected to the 1946 Federal Tort Claims Act. As part of this law, the federal government gained immunity to claims that arise from wartime combat. In 1950, the Supreme Court added non-combat or incident of service injuries. Meaning that sexual assault, toxic poisoning, medical negligence and other non-combat related injuries cannot be the basis of legal action against the US government or military.

Justice Antonin Scalia acknowledged that Feres was wrongly decided in 1987.

And then the Supreme Court left it up to Congress to fix.

Over the years, Congress has attempted to correct Feres, but major changes haven’t been made.

Until now.

How Feres Changed in 2019

As part of the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act, military troops would be able to seek just compensation for medical malpractice by military doctors. In order to initiate the process, there is a new claims procedure being put into place.

This bill, however, stops short of allowing military troops to sue, a right that civilians have in the case of medical malpractice.

Additionally, there are limits to compensation and imposes financial burdens on troops making medical malpractice claims. The Department of Defense will be liable for only a portion of compensation due to a victim of medical malpractice by a DoD doctor.

The government will also not be liable to pay attorneys’ fees. Fees recovered by attorneys are limited to 20% of the paid claim.

Military Docs Missed Major Health Problem

The most recent changes were moved forward by Congresswoman Jackie Spier (D – CA). Earlier in 2019, Congresswoman Spier introduced the Sgt. First Class Richard Stayskal Military Medical Accountability Act.

Sgt. 1st Class Stayskal, an Army and USMC veteran, had seen military medical personnel repeatedly due to breathing problems and growing concerns over his health. Each time, he was told it was just asthma or pneumonia.

It was only when he sought another opinion from a civilian pulmonologist that Sgt. Stayskal learned that he had Stage 4 lung cancer. Military doctors and specialists had apparently missed a 3cm mass in one of his lungs.

This gross negligence spurred Congresswoman Spier and other political allies to create a movement for legal change, introducing the Stayskal Military Medical Accountability Act and pushing to allow troops to seek justice against medical malpractice.

This incident follows upon decades of troops being injured or dying, in military service, in non-combat situations.

Army Capt. Katie Blanchard was attacked with gasoline and lit on fire by a civilian colleague. The civilian employee had been brought to the attention of supervisors. He was seen as a threat to others, ultimately completely disfiguring Capt. Blanchard.

She was not allowed to seek damages from the military.

Navy Lt. Rebekah Daniel died during childbirth at a military medical facility. Her surviving spouse, Walter Daniel, sued and the case rose to the Supreme Court in May 2019. Ultimately, Walter Daniel v. United States was denied Supreme Court consideration. However, Justices Ruth Bader Gindberg and Clarence Thomas called for a review of the case.

Lt. Daniel’s case will not benefit from the most recent changes to Feres.

The Feres Doctrine’s roots are in another Supreme Court case from post-World War II. Lt. Rudolph Feres had served his country in Europe, and survived. Only to be killed in a barracks fire after the war.

Lt. Feres’ widow attempted to sue the US military for negligence in the death of her husband. The fight took them to the Supreme Court, which handed down the decision preventing troops from suing in all cases of illness, injury or death related to any military service.

This law has been allowed to stand, with limited changes, since then.

How New Feres Will Impact You

If you’ve been the victim of medical malpractice by a military doctor, you have up to two years after the incident to submit your claim to the DoD. The process for actually submitting a claim remained undefined at the time of publication.

After review, approved cases up to $100,000 can be directly paid out by the DoD. Cases approved for settlements in excess of $100,000 will be referred to the US Treasury for additional review.

In order to be considered, your medical malpractice must not have occurred in a combat zone.

Medical malpractice cases that predate 2017 have no options for recourse. However, cases occurring in 2017 will be able to file claims through the end of 2020. Following that, cases must have occurred within a two-year window, prior to the date the claim is being submitted.

Were you the victim of military medical malpractice? How do you feel about the changes to Feres? Does it go far enough? Sound off in the comments!

How the World Has Changed Since January 2020

04/30/2020 By Meg Flanagan

January 2020 started out as normal as possible. By the middle of April, the entire world had changed entirely.

How the World Has Changed Since January 2020

Back in January, Americans hadn’t really heard of coronavirus or COVID-19. If it had crossed our radar, it was as a distant threat – not something that would pause life as we know it.

Photo Credit: ©tanaonte /Adobe Stock

2020: A Very Interesting Beginning

In January, Americans were caught up in the daily drama of President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial. There were daily updates and new developments as Congress determined whether his alleged actions should result in his removal from office.

Generally, our worries were inward facing: impeachment, the wild winter weather, Kobe Bryant.

We were shocked as Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, announced that they would become financially independent and move to North America immediately.

The attack on the US Embassy in Baghdad rattled us deeply. It felt too close to the other recent embassy attacks in 2013. Many celebrated when US forces killed Iranian Major General Qasem Soleimani. And we all worried when Iranian forces retaliated by shooting missiles at US bases. The rising toll of troops suffering from varying degrees of TBIs kept us glued to our seats.

Australia suffered a devastating bushfire season, with an estimated one million animals dying in the weeks-long blaze. We cried when images of scorched koalas or kangaroos flashed across our newsfeed.

Everything felt a little too fast, a little too much. It was the longest year ever – and it was only February.

Many Feel It’s the Longest Year on Record

By early February, the first coronavirus death outside of China was recorded in the Philippines. Nations across the globe began to tighten their borders, with many restricting or preventing travel from Chinese nationals. However, this looming international health crisis still didn’t seem real to Americans.

President Trump was acquitted on February 5, effectively ending his impeachment trial.

The Democratic presidential primaries continued their months-long slog toward the summer convention. Candidates launched barbed one-liners at each other in debates and attempted to appeal to the diverse liberal audience for support.

Still, coronavirus was lurking in the background as we marched toward March. The world watched as several cruise ships were quarantined in Japan, confirmed cases of COVID-19 aboard. Funny TikTok videos and grim daily Twitter updates competed for our attention on social media.

Still, the problem mostly seemed contained to Asia.

We saw a severe winter storm slam New England while Antarctica recorded the hottest ever temperature of approximately 65ºF.

Commenting on the possibly retaliatory firings of Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, his brother Army JAG officer Lt. Col. Yevgeny Vindman and EU Ambassador Gordon Sondland was more pressing news than discussing coronavirus.

But by the end of February, coronavirus had spread from China, South Korea and Japan to Europe, Africa and North America. Major world sporting events, like the Tokyo Marathon, are impacted. The Marathon reduced its size to just 200 elite runners instead of the planned field of 38,000.

And the US recorded it’s first coronavirus death on February 29, 2020.

Swift Slide to Pandemic & Global Lockdown

From that very first death on the last day of February, many parts of the US swiftly moved from total ignorance to complete lockdown.

By mid-March K-12 schools were closed. Businesses and even the federal government moved toward teleworking options to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Suddenly, parents were attempting to both work-from-home while also supervising and facilitating distance learning.

President Trump also began giving daily briefing from the White House press room, supported by Dr. Anthony Fauci. Reports and recommendations from the White House often conflicted each other as well as the recommendations of the CDC and WHO.

States attempted a piecemeal approach to contain the spread of COVID-19. Some states quickly moved to cancel schools and limit public gatherings. Others are still not responding with any preventative measures.

The US death toll, as of April 6, has topped 10,000. In just one month, we have gone from complete denial to pandemic, from one death to tens of thousands.

A Nation of Hand Washers

Except in those places where the state or local governments haven’t acted, Americans are staying inside. We wear face masks when we leave the house and we stay 6 or more feet from everyone.

Every cough and sneeze in public is met with glares of suspicion, followed by people nearby swiftly scuttling far away.

Now, coronavirus dominates our news and conversations. The 2020 election and all the contention over President Trumps controversial presidency seem to have largely faded into the background. We’re all just focused on our daily survival.

Juggling working, educating kids and sanitizing our homes has taken firm priority in our lives.

Vacations are effectively canceled through at least June. Schools are closed for the year. Professional and college sports pulled the plug on whole seasons.

Suddenly, our world has shrunk. We have the four walls of our homes and any additional land. We have walks in the neighborhood or on unpopulated trails, staying far from all others.

Hands are washed ad nauseam. Never have counters and doorknobs been so very clean. Even groceries and mailed packages are being sanitized in an effort to keep COVID-19 far from our own doors.

The world has changed since the heady beginning of 2020. We’ve become more careful and also more community focused. Many of us are realizing the joys of interacting with people in real life instead of from a screen. Everything has become a little bit cleaner, more sanitary. Everyone has become a whole lot more worried, more aware of our own mortality.

And more grateful for the blessings we currently have: a roof over our heads, food on the table, the promise of tomorrow.

How has your world changed with the pandemic? Sound off in the comments.

We Need to Talk About Military Spouse Financial Abuse

04/29/2020 By Meg Flanagan

Abuse. You think it means bruises and physical violence. Maybe aggressive name-calling and emotional torture. But putting conditions on and tying love to money is financial abuse – and it’s a real problem in the military community.

However, financial abuse is hard to spot. It’s so often hidden as budgeting or “being smart with spending.” Exerting so much control over finances, in such a way that one partner is subservient to the other, is abuse.

And we need to start talking about it ASAP.

We Need to Talk About Military Spouse Financial Abuse

What is financial abuse?

Simply put, it’s tightly controlling the spending, earning and maintaining financial resources. This can include:

  • connecting use of joint accounts to “good behavior”
  • denying access to debit or credit cards
  • preventing a partner from working or controlling earnings
  • down to the penny accounting for spending

That’s just the tip of the iceberg in terms of how finances and money can be used by one spouse to control the other.

It’s Happening Right Next Door

Your neighbor. The couple you know from the squadron or unit. You.

Spousal financial abuse is literally happening all around you – and you might never know it. It’s sneaky and easy to hide.

I’ll never forget the moment when a friend told me that she had “lost” her debit card. My immediate reaction was to call her bank and request a new one.

“No,” she explained. She’d simply lost the privilege of using the debit card connected to the joint account she shares with her husband. He felt justified in removing her access to money because…

Honestly, it doesn’t really matter why he took away her debit card. Not cleaning the house to his preference was one reason supplied. Another was not seasoning dinner to his liking. Her fitness level, style of dress, socializing with others.

There were endless reasons supplied over three or so years. Each one blamed her for something he didn’t “prefer.”

It’s About Control – Not Love

For my friend and everyone trapped in an abusive relationship, it’s all about control.

Abuse, no matter what form it takes, is always about control and power. It is never about love.

What financial abuse does particularly well is to remove the abused partner’s means of escape.

Leaving often requires some money to get started. Money for a bus, plane or train ticket. Cash for a hotel room or short-term lease. Even just a way to pay for a cab.

Without access to money, the abused spouse is effectively trapped.

Military Life Seems to Make This Easier

As Lizann Lightfoot noted in an article on Military.com, military budgets are often stretched to the very limit. With payday arriving every two weeks, military families – especially those who are young or have additional debts – might structure their spending around when money arrives in their account.

Creating a budget to account for spending, debt and frequency of income – that’s normal. It makes sense, especially for families who walk a financial tightrope.

But a lot of “common” money practices aren’t normal:

  • hiding “his” money to pay for basics between payday
  • losing access to accounts, credit cards or debit cards
  • receiving a strict “allowance” to pay for all household basics
  • giving over control of your paycheck entirely
  • refusing you or your children the resources to pay for food, clothing, hygiene supplies or shelter
  • refusing you access to participate in the financial planning aspect of the family

These six reasons are, again, just the tip of the iceberg of financial abuse. Whatever methods the abuser takes, the intent is always about power, control and limiting their partner’s access to resources.

Military life makes it uniquely easier, in a sense, for one person to gain that level of control over the other.

Moving every three years limits many spouses’ career or job options. Without a steady salary or income, it’s not uncommon to think about “they earn it all, so they can spend it as they see fit.” It’s a justification for limiting one partner’s access to finances.

When one partner controls all the income and expenses, without input from the other, that could be financial abuse.

What Can You Do?

In our community, we’re used to relying on others for support and resources. Financial abuse is no different.

If you suspect a friend or acquaintance is a victim of financial abuse:

  • offer support: I’m here for you…
  • help them process: How does it feel when…
  • validate their feelings: Thanks for sharing…
  • offer resources: Can I help you find…
  • give them a way out: Could we make a plan, just in case…

Military spouses in abusive relationships of any type have resources built-in to help support their survival.

If you are in an abusive relationship, you can make a report. Your report will either be restricted or unrestricted.

Restricted reports:

  • report to Family Advocacy Program clinicians or advocates, or to your PCM
  • law enforcement is not involved
  • chain of command is not involved
  • access to counseling and an advocate to help formulate your next steps

Unrestricted reports:

  • law enforcement conducts an investigation
  • chain of command is involved
  • support available from CoC includes no-contact order or protective order
  • access to all Family Advocacy Program resources
  • rights to access legal services
  • assistance applying for transitional compensation

By reporting to command, financial allotments can also be set up to help the abused spouse stay financially stable during this period of transition.

How do you and your spouse or partner handle the finances? Sound off in the comment!

13 Pantry Raid One-Pot Meals for Self-Isolation

04/29/2020 By Meg Flanagan

Since we can’t just swing into the grocery store for that random, unique ingredient for a speciality dish – thanks, social distancing – we’re raiding the pantry and fridge for easy to pull together recipes with lots of flexibility.

Pantry Raid One-Pot Meals for Self-Isolation

All of these recipes feature ingredients that you probably already have at home, like canned or frozen veggies or baking mixes. We also included items that you also probably have in your fridge or freezer, like cold cuts, chicken or eggs.

Everything comes together in a snap and uses just one pot, skillet, casserole dish, sheet pan or slow cooker to cook. Some recipes are also leftover-friendly, which means you can repurpose yesterday’s dinner for today!

One-Pot Slow Cooker Meals from Pantry Staples

  • Dump Soup: grab a 32 oz. container of any stock or broth; add chopped onion; add 1-3 cans of any beans; add 1 large can of diced tomatoes; add your favorite frozen veggies; serve hot after cooking 3-5 hours on high/6-8 hours in low
  • Easy Peasy Chili: combine 2-4 cans beans, 1 large can diced tomatoes, one chopped onion; season with chili powder, paprika, salt and pepper; cook 4 hours on high/6-8 hours on low; serve with shredded cheese, sour cream and salsa
  • Chili Remix Potatoes: save some chili; clean enough potatoes for your family and poke them all over with a fork; season with olive oil and salt/pepper; cook 2.5-4 hours on high/6-8 hours on low; top with leftover chili, cheese, sour cream and salsa – inspiration from Passionate Penny Pincher
  • Slow Cooker Chicken Dinner: place a whole roasting chicken in your slow cooker, seasoned all over to your preference; cook on high for 4-6 hours/6-8 hours on low; 1-2 hours before your chicken is done add in foil-wrapped packets of potatoes and carrots, all peeled and chopped; finish cooking and serve; save the liquid for soup
  • Dump Chicken Soup: add the chicken cooking liquid + 32 oz. chicken broth to a slow cooker; add in shredded cooked chicken, any frozen veggies, any canned veggies; season to taste; cook on high 2-3 hours

We love slow cooker meals because it cooks while you live your life, minimal hands-on time required!

One Skillet Meals You’ll Love

Everything cooks in just one skillet for easy, peasy prep and cleanup!

  • Taco remix: use what you have on hand – tortillas, crunchy shells, tortilla chips, rice – it all works; saute onions and garlic in a skillet until soft; add in ground meat and cook until browned; chop tomatoes, shred lettuce; combine your meat, veggies and tortilla/crunchy shell/chips/rice, top with salsa, sour cream and cheese
  • Easy Chicken Biscuits: use 1 cup Bisquick, following the recipe on the box for drop biscuits (1c mix + 1 egg + a little milk); preheat the oven to 350; in an oven-safe skillet cook onions and garlic until soft; add in chopped celery; add in chopped fresh or frozen veggies like carrots, corn, peas, beans, etc.; add in leftover cooked chicken; add 1 c broth or 1 c milk; bring to a boil until the liquid slightly thickens; dollop the Bisquick mix in rounded spoonfuls over the top; put the whole skillet into the preheated oven for 10-20 minutes or until the biscuits are slightly browned on top
  • Toad in a Hole: butter slices of bread on both sides; use a drinking cup to cut a circle out of the center of each slice; place each buttered slice of bread onto the hot skillet and crack an egg into the hole; cook until egg is done to your preference, adding in the cut-out bread circle and browning it on both sides; after all bread has been used, brown some thick-cut ham in the same skillet; serve hot
  • Leftovers Rizzoto: use the rice you have – about 2 cups uncooked regular rice; saute onions and garlic in oil or butter in a skillet; add in rice and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly, over medium heat; add in 2 cups of chicken or veggie stock; simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until liquid is reduced; add more chicken broth to just cover rice and reduce again; repeat until rice is tender; add in cooked shredded chicken, peas or other leftovers; serve warm with Parmesan cheese

These meals require a little extra hands-on time, but still only dirty just one skillet.

Dinner on a Single Sheet Pan

Arrange all your dinner ingredients on a single sheet pan, cook in the oven and you’re done! These are super simple to DIY in a pinch.

Pro Tip: use a silicon mat or aluminum foil to really cut cleanup time!

  • Sausage & Onions: heat oven to 375º; on a sheet pan or baking sheet, arrange sausages (any kind); in a separate bowl, combine one onion that’s been cut into eighths and then separated, 2-4 peeled and quartered potatoes, 1-3 peeled and chunked carrots; in the veggie bowl, drizzle olive oil, season to your preference; add veggie to sheet pan; cook for 30-40 min or until sausages are cooked through and veggies are roasted
  • Fish & Chips: pat dry 3-6 unbreaded fish fillets, like Coleson’s Catch; arrange on one side of a sheet pan; sprinkle with lemon juice, salt, pepper, rosemary; add a very small pat of butter to each fillet; peel and cut into “fries” 2-3 sweet and/or russet potatoes; arrange potatoes on the other side of the pan; bake at 350º for 20-30 minutes or until fish flakes with a fork
  • Open Face Custom Sandwiches: divide 1-2 baguettes or French/Italian loaves into sections, enough for 1-2 servings per person; arrange on a sheet pan, crust down; spread butter over the face-up side of the bread; add your preferred cold cuts and cheese to each section; top with banana peppers, roasted tomatoes or peppers, etc. to your taste; season with herbs, salt, and/or pepper to your taste; bake at 350º for 15-20 min or until bread is crispy and cheese is melted; serve hot, with lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc. to your preference
  • 1 Pan Chicken Dinner: preheat the oven to 375º; in the middle of a sheet pan, arrange chicken thighs, breasts, or legs; drizzle olive oil over the chicken, season with salt, pepper, herbs or your favorite spices; around the chicken arrange peeled and quartered potatoes, chopped carrots, quartered onions, turnips, whole garlic gloves, etc.; bake for 30-45 min or until chicken is fully cooked

We love dinners that leave us with almost zero cleanup in the end!

What’s your favorite one-pot meal that uses pantry or fridge staples?

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