Military Life News

Military Life News, Commissary Rewards and Military Discounts

Scholarships for Military Children

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NEWS RELEASE

Defense Commissary Agency

Corporate Communications

1300 E Avenue, Fort Lee, VA 23801-1800

Tel:  (804) 734-8000, Ext. 8-6105  DSN: 687-8000, Ext. 8-6105 

FAX: (804) 734-8248  DSN: 687-8248

www.commissaries.com

Release Number:         56-19                                                                                                                        

Date:                              July 11, 2019

Media Contact:             Kevin L. Robinson, public affairs specialist

Tel.:                                (804) 734-8000, Ext. 4-8773

E-mail:                           kevin.robinson@deca.mil

Scholarships for Military Children

500 students earn grants for 2019-2020 school year

By Mike Perron,

DeCA public affairs specialist

Note: Go to the DeCA website to view this release online.

FORT LEE, Va. – Thanks to the Scholarships for Military Children program, 500 students from military families were each awarded a $2000 scholarship grant for the upcoming 2019-2020 school year.

The program, created in 2001, recognizes the contributions of military families to the readiness of the fighting force and celebrates the commissaries’ role in enhancing military quality of life. It’s administered by the Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps service members and their families.

“This was the first year of an entirely paperless online application process, and it was a complete success,” said Jim Weiskopf, Fisher House Foundation vice president and scholarship program administrator. “Not only did applications increase by nearly 25%, but we eliminated the need for commissaries to log in and account for each application, bundle them up and send them to the evaluators after the closing date.”

The reduced overhead allowed commissaries to dedicate more time to promoting the program, said Marye Dobson, the Defense Commissary Agency’s scholarships program liaison. “The management at the commissary stores did a great job getting the word out about the online process as well as hosting in-store ceremonies honoring the recipients at their local commissary, which helps bring attention to the availability of these scholarships.”

Scholarship applicants submit their official transcript indicating a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale for high school applicants, or indicating a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale for students already enrolled in college; and an essay of 500 words or less, no longer than two pages.

Eligibility is determined using the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System database. Applicants must ensure that they, as well as their sponsor, are enrolled in the DEERS database and have a current military dependent ID card. The applicant must also be planning to attend or already be attending an accredited college or university, full time, in the fall of 2019 or be enrolled in a program of studies designed to transfer directly into a four-year program.

Applicants who are awarded a full scholarship to attend a college or university or receive an appointment to one of the military academies or affiliated preparatory schools are not eligible to receive funds from this program. A full scholarship is usually defined as one that provides for payment of tuition, books, lab fees and other expenses.

All rules and requirements for the program, as well as links to frequently asked questions are available at the Scholarships for Military children website, as is the full list of this year’s winners.

Fisher House also recently added a custom scholarship search engine to the site, tailored to military families, called “Scholarships for Service.” It’s free, easy to use, and available on mobile devices or computers at militaryscholar.org.

“The window to apply for the 2019-2020 Fisher House Scholarships for Military Children should open in December and close in February, but the exact dates have not been determined yet,” said Dobson. “Be sure to check the scholarship page in mid-December for the opening of the program.”

Fisher House Foundation is ranked a Four Star Charity by Charity Navigator.

-DeCA-

Let the Commissary Cater Your Next Picnic

By

NEWS RELEASE

Defense Commissary Agency

 
Corporate Communications

1300 E Avenue, Fort Lee, VA 23801-1800

Tel:  (804) 734-8000, Ext. 8-6105  DSN: 687-8000, Ext. 8-6105 

FAX: (804) 734-8248  DSN: 687-8248

www.commissaries.com

Release Number:         55-19                                                                                                                        

Date:                              July 11, 2019

Media Contact:             Kevin L. Robinson, public affairs specialist

Tel.:                                (804) 734-8000, Ext. 4-8773

E-mail:                           kevin.robinson@deca.mil

Ready-to-eat munchies

Let the commissary cater your next picnic

By Kathy Milley,

DeCA Corporate Communications

Note: Go to the DeCA website to view this release online.

FORT LEE, Va. – Summer is the perfect time to lay down those mobile devices, TV remotes and game system controllers and take the family outside for some old fashioned bonding at a perfectly planned picnic.

“To put together a summer picnic basket that will get the job done but won’t break the bank, don’t go any further than your local commissary,” said Tracie Russ, the Defense Commissary Agency’s director of sales. “You can put together a delicious, economical, al fresco meal with almost no effort at all. Save even more when you purchase high quality, low cost commissary store brands.”  

Picnic food should keep well, transport easily and taste delicious. The following three picnic options hit the mark. Find great prices on the ingredients and ready-to-eat items for each of these menus at your commissary. Find the recipes for the linked menu items on commissaries.com.

Comfort food picnic

Wine and cheese picnic

  • Choose one of each type of cheese:
    • Aged: cheddar, gouda, swiss
    • Soft: blue, boursin, brie, goat
    • Firm: gruyere, monterey jack, jarlsberg, parmesan
  • Choose bread, crackers or flatbread
  • Choose your extras
    • Savory: olives, pickles, roasted red peppers
    • Crunchy: nuts, seeds or roasted edamame, chickpeas or pumpkin seeds
    • Meat: prosciutto, ham or turkey
  • Wine and corkscrew

Sandwich and sides picnic

“There’s no better way to take advantage of the sunshine and summer breezes than to enjoy a family picnic. And no better way to save on your picnic menu than a quick visit to your commissary,” said Russ. “So put away the electronics, pack your basket and some games, hit the road and gear up for some incomparable family time.” 

-DeCA-

Do Active Duty Troops Need a Tourist Passport?

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Your military CAC is your life. It gets you into your shop, through the commissary and to medical for some Motrin.

Everything you’ve needed to do is handled by that one card. But now, you’d like to travel or maybe you’ve got an OCONUS tour in the works. Will your CAC get you onto the plane or train?

Do Active Duty Troops Need a Tourist Passport?

Short answer: everyone needs a passport for international travel. Generally, except for a few circumstances, passports are required to leave the US. Yes, that includes on cruises and jaunts just over the border to Canada or Mexico.

So, yes, even active duty troops do need a US Passport (or passport from their home nation) to travel around the world.

However, there are some instances that do not require a tourist passport for active duty troops.

  • OCONUS PCS
  • CONUS to OCONUS TDY
  • OCONUS to OCONUS TDY
  • Deployment, to and from deployment location
  • Other official travel
Photo Credit: ©photobyphotoboy /Adobe Stock

Some Tourist Passport Exceptions

Under these very specific circumstances, active duty troops are not required to have a valid, current passport. That’s because you’ll be on official military business.

For travel to, from or around OCONUS locations on orders, you’ll need a copy of those specific orders and your CAC card. Make sure that your orders specify where you’re going to and from, the dates you’ll be traveling and have your personal information on them. You’ll be showing these documents to customs and immigration at your OCONUS destination, if traveling by commercial air.

If you’re PCSing to or from an OCONUS location, you’ll need to bring a copy of those orders, your CAC and your area clearance. For travel with dependents, they’ll need to be listed on your area clearance and orders, too.

Your family might be authorized “official” or no-fee passports. These are just for travel on orders to and from your next duty station(s). Even though they look the same, you aren’t really supposed to conduct personal travel with these special passports.

On deployment, you might be flying on a military-provided flight or via commercial airlines. But the same rule applies: copy of your orders and your CAC. That’s it. Yes, even if you’re coming and going from R & R and even if you’re IAD.

There might be other reasons for your official travel. Most will simply require your CAC and a copy of orders.

Times Active Duty Troops Will Want a Tourist Passport

Say you’re a service member and you’d like to go on vacation…

If you’re going outside of the US, you’ll need a passport. 100% and all the time for personal tourist travel. That’s it.

Applying for a passport is fairly quick and easy. There’s a handy online questionnaire that will guide you to the correct form and let you know all the fees upfront. All you’ll need to do is fill in the online application and make an appointment at your nearest passport office.

Some military bases might be able to help you process tourist passport applications, but often you’ll need to visit a federal passport office yourself.

Important Passport & Travel Reminders

Getting a passport is fairly simple, but there are important things that everyone should know before they go.

  • Minor children need to have consent from both/all custodial parents or guardians; consent can be shown via additional forms for parents unable to appear in person
  • You passport and your booking information should match, down to the middle name or middle initial; especially important for newlyweds or other name changes
  • Passports can take 6-8 weeks between application and arrival at your door; plan your trip with this in mind

There are also special concerns for military troops and families.

  • Foreign travel must be approved by your chain of command, with requirements and training varying by location or unit; see your CO or authorized unit member for guidance
  • Some locations may be considered off-limits to troops; always check with your command and monitor the travel advisories issued by the State Department
  • When traveling to/from your OCONUS duty station, military families should always carry a copy of orders, area clearance, a DoD ID and have a valid multiple entry stamp in their tourist passport

Passport + DoD ID Perks

When traveling, you might also want to consider bringing along your military ID, even though you’ve also got a passport. There are definitely some travel perks that could apply!

Some US airlines allow military troops and veterans, with ID, to board the plane first. Others allow complimentary additional baggage, even when you’re not traveling on orders! And sometimes, just sometimes, you might even score a small (or big) upgrade. Some troops traveling, both on orders and for personal reasons, report that they’ve scored class upgrades or been placed in seats with extra legroom.

Having your ID with you at check-in could also score you passage through the coveted TSA Pre-Check line! You’ll cut tons of time off your security clearance and be able to keep your shoes on.

What had you heard about passports for AD troops? We’d love to hear your best scuttlebutt!

Resources to Plan Your Military Wedding with Ease

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Before you pop the question or say “I do” there are a few boxes that need to be checked for couples in the military.

There’s lots to tackle before you get to the altar (or courthouse, if we’re being honest). It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but it’s all 100% possible and totally doable.

Resources to Plan Your Military Wedding with Ease

Congrats! You’re and your partner are about to enter an exciting and hectic time in your relationship: wedding planning. Oh, and you’ll get to do it on the US military’s schedule. Which makes it super fun and wonderful.

Before You Pop the Question

There are no rules about who military troops may marry. Marry the person you love. Same sex marriage is legal and recognized across the country.

However, there are some small caveats at play.

First, students at service academies must graduate and get commissioned or leave the academy before marriage. So wait until after one of those two life events, and you’re golden.

Also, there are rules about fraternization, meaning crossing rank barriers. For example, an officer and an enlisted member cannot get married. However, if two people of equal enlisted rank do so and one partner later gets commissioned, they are grandfathered in and the relationship is totally fine.

Just make sure you’re not in either of those two categories before you ask your partner to get hitched.

Photo Credit: ©Brandon /Adobe Stock

Planning Your Big Day

You might picture a sword arch or cutting the cake with a saber. Maybe you’d like you or your spouse-to-be to wear dress uniforms. Perhaps you think it’s a rule to follow these traditions.

Great news: your wedding is still 100% yours. No need to risk cake on dress blues or eat cake off a sword. You do you.

In the process of planning your wedding day, there are tons of resources you can access that can make the process easier and cheaper:

  • Base Chaplains: military chaplains of all denominations can provide pre-marital and marriage counseling at no cost to you. You can also often rent out the base chapel for free – and book a minister into the deal. There is a suggested donation, but even that will be less expensive than renting a civilian church.
  • MFLC: contact your local Military Family Life Counselor for individual or joint marriage counseling. This is a judgement-free zone to explore your relationship and the impact of military service with a trained counselor.
  • Use Uniforms: its fancy clothes you or your partner already own, so use it! Ask military friends in your wedding party or on the invitation to feel free to wear their best military uniforms, too. Just be sure everyone in the wedding party is wearing the same uniform in terms of formality, even across branches of service.

You might also want to consider getting wedding insurance. The military’s missions don’t stop for your big day. Which means that short-notice deployments, TDY trips and other unexpected events can derail your careful planning. Having insurance can help you to recoup some of those losses.

Another way to get around the military’s schedule is to get married on short notice. Contact the chaplain, local churches and justices of the peace to learn about last minute cancellations or openings. You can do the same with reception venues in your desired location, too. Often you can score a good deal by picking up someone else’s cancellation.

If you’re inviting other military members to your wedding, you might want to consider how to address the invitations and arrange seating. You can skip all of this if the military aspect isn’t factoring into your big day. For more formal or military-focused events, consider addressing invitations with military rank (Staff Sergeant and Mr. Smith) and seat guests by rank. Contact your base or unit protocol officer for assistance.

After You’re Hitched

Congrats! You did it! Now you’ve got to handle all the paperwork of getting married.

If you are changing a last name, you’ll need to:

  • Update your SSN
  • Get a new driver’s license
  • Apply for a new passport
  • Update bank, insurance and other name-associated accounts
  • Double check other important life documents and rules

For every new military spouse (and sponsor!), you’ll need to:

  • Enroll in DEERS
  • Get an official dependent ID card
  • Update SGLI to include the new spouse as the recipient
  • Update chain of command with the spouse’s new next of kin and contact information
  • Update the military member’s paperwork and file to reflect marital status, next of kin and contact information
  • Obtain blanket and special power of attorney documents to provide access to accounts and services when the military member is away
  • Memorize the military member’s SSN – it’s used for literally everything

All of these name changes and updates can take time, so don’t book your honeymoon in your new married last name. Your booking does need to match your passport or other identifying documents.

Also, make sure you’ve double checked the military member’s leave status and deployment schedule before you book any big trips. Many military couples delay their honeymoon to accommodate the mission.

What questions do you have about getting married as a military member or becoming a military spouse? We’d love to point you in the right direction!

Military One Source, A Wealth of Information for Military Spouses

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By Marguerite Cleveland

     The Military One Source website is a wealth of information for military spouses. The website is broken down into a variety of categories and there really is something for everyone. It is a helpful resource to help you juggle this crazy lifestyle we live. Here are a few things I found on the site:

  • MySECO – The Spouse Education and Career Opportunities has employment partnerships and job listings for over 300,000 jobs open to military spouses. There is a career exploration category which helps you refine what you are looking for. There are also educational resources. Employment readiness can help you get your resume in order and evaluate your skills and what you may want to learn. Learn what it takes to start your own business.
  • Military Life Cycle – This section provides information on where you are at in the military life cycle. New there is a section for you. Getting ready for deployments, check. There is a section for Veterans and even a place friends and family can sign up to receive emails about your new life.
  • Health & Wellness – There are over 100 items posted in this section. Categories include Healthcare, Healthy Living, Mental Health, Wounded Warriors and Caregivers. You can sign up for a Military One Source Health and Wellness Coach who will help you reach goals to lose weight, eat more nutritiously, get physically fit, help you manage stress and much more. The best part it is free.
  • Recreation, Travel and Shopping – What a wealth of information. Recreation has categories for those trying to get in shape, if you’re single or information on the libraries for those that love to read. Travel shows you where to access great deals for travel and even lets you search by installation for information on your area.
  • Family & Relationships – This section has over 200 posts and deals with all types of relationships from spouse to children. It has information for parents with special needs children. There is lots of guidance from those who have been there done that to help you in your journey.
  • Confidential Help – Did you know you can call Military One Source for help?  800.342.9647, check the website for OCONUS options. This is a good category to look at if you don’t know where to turn. Check here if you want to adopt a baby. Does my husband have PTSD? Marital problems etc. Help is available 24/7.
Photo Credit: ©DenisProduction.com /Adobe Stock

     Military One Source is just one of the many resources available to help you navigate military life. Are you taking advantage of all your benefits?

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’s Happening with the Military Housing Bill of Rights?

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Since early 2019, all the chatter has been about the horrors of privatized military housing. The mold, the falling down homes and the resulting illnesses or injuries to troops and their families.

After the Congressional hearing and promises of new “resident bill of rights” in the works, it seems that some of the focus has shifted.

What’s Happening with the Military Housing Bill of Rights

There’s been a lot of action and many promises made over the last six months.

Tenants Bill of Rights

In March, DoD officials and lawmakers promised that on-base residents would be involved in the creation of a “resident bill of rights.” This new document is meant to provide a layer of protection for tenants in privatized housing.

As of June 11, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment Robert McMahon stated that he intended to deliver an initial draft to residents by June 14 at the latest. On-base residents should have received an online survey from CEL and Associates via email. One survey per household will be provided.

As of publication, all on-base households should have received their surveys. If you have not yet received yours or are having issues with it, please call the toll-free helpline at (800)-482-6431, or contact CEL & Associates, Inc. via email at BillofRightsFeedback@celassociates.com

Photo Credit: ©marioav /Adobe Stock

On-Base Residents Get More Housing Rights

The new bill of rights is intended to hold privatized housing management companies more accountable. Residents across services and around the US have been aware of issues relating to poor management and maintenance for many years. Everything came to a head at February 2019’s Congressional hearings, when military spouses detailed the impact and seriousness of their concerns.

As a result of this testimony and firsthand visits to crumbling military housing, Congress and DoD leadership proposed the collaborative bill of rights in order to hold housing management companies accountable.

Tentative inclusions for the proposed bill of rights includes:

  • right to withhold rent through a neutral party until concerns are addressed
  • housing advocates on military installations
  • right to a healthy home and community
  • effective communication tools between the landlord (management company representatives), maintenance staff and tenants
  • a process to handle disputes, mediation and arbitration
  • protection from reprisals should tenants involve their chain of command or other military housing staff
  • property maintenance that meets or exceeds industry standards, performed by a professional

“We’re moving forward in a way that will quickly enhance the experience our military members are having on installations in family housing, and we’re doing it in a way they know there are people who care. If they have an issue we’re going to be responsive and they’re going to have a voice,” McMahon said June 11 at a meeting with more than 500 representatives from military communities.

What Housing Companies are Already Doing

Military housing companies are already starting to make changes. While most management companies do not make connections between this new programs and initiatives, changes have been made following the Congressional hearings and increased scrutiny by political and DoD leaders.

  • Balfour-Beatty: On May 14, Balfour-Beatty announced an upgraded resident portal to improve communication and request maintenance services. Residents can access this portal via a website or app.
  • Lincoln Military Housing: On May 30, Lincoln unveiled their new app for residents. This will enable residents to request and track maintenance requests from anywhere in the world, 24/7.
  • Corvias: As of April 13, Corvias had provided additional customer service and support training to employees across all 13 of their military housing communities.
  • Winn: As of June 25, Winn had not announced any new customer service or support initiatives for their military communities.
  • Hunt: As of June 25, Hunt has not announced any new customer service or support initiatives. However, they do already offer a 24/7 online service and maintenance portal for residents to submit requests.

Help On the Way for OCONUS, Barracks Housing

While McMahon acknowledged at the June 11 meeting that the DoD’s focus is on the privatized housing communities, they are also aware of issues concerning housing for single troops in barracks and families living overseas.

“We can’t forget about those living overseas in government housing, those living in dormitories and barracks… housing for single members, and we certainly can’t forget about those living in communities. They have rights and responsibilities as well. We have to take a broader perspective than where we are right now,” he said.

Right now, the DoD and housing management companies will be working to create and implement the tenant bill of rights stateside. Following the survey received by on-base households in June, there should be a review process before proceeding to finalizing the complete document.

As military communities roll out and implement the bill of rights in the US, the DoD will be pivoting to assist military troops living in the barracks and families living on base OCONUS.

“We’re going to do it sequentially,” he explained. “We’re focused right now on those that living in privatized housing on installations.”

What’s been your experience living in privatized housing? Tell us your story, location(s) and housing company.

Inexpensive Water Fun

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By Marguerite Cleveland

     When it comes to summer fun and kids, just add water. It is amazing how something so simple can keep the little ones occupied. Here are a few fun things to do which don’t cost a lot of money.

  • Watering the Yard – This is a twofer. Kids love running through sprinklers so next time you are watering your lawn plan for some water fun as well. It is a win-win, the children are occupied and your lawn gets some TLC.
  • Cooking – Depending on your tolerance for a mess use just water or water with dirt or sand. Set up a bench in your yard to serve as the kitchen. Fill a small toddler swimming pool with water which can be purchased for under $20. Get a variety of utensils and containers and let the kids just go at it making imaginary treats. Yes is can be messy but so fun for the kids.
  • Splash Parks – Most military installations now have splash parks which are free to use during the summer months. Many newer, upscale shopping centers offer splash parks as well. I loved using these when I had toddlers as they would run and run and just wear themselves out making for a nice relaxing naptime later where Mom could take a breather.
  • County and State Parks – Many local parks have lakes with beaches which are a fun place to enjoy a day at the “beach” with smaller children. Usually there is a nice shallow area for wading. Entry fees range from free to a few dollars. State Parks also offer annual passes that give you admission for a year to all their parks and it is well worth it.
  • Water Parks – Waterparks are usually a high ticket summer activity but did you know there are some less expensive alternatives. Many counties have their own smaller waterparks. They may not have all the bells and whistles but most usually have a good lazy river, a couple of waterslides and a themed child play area with admissions under $20. If you plan on going frequently a season’s pass may be worth the Splurge. The park we used to go to charges $60 for a season’s pass which is well worth it if you plan to visit a few times. A local county park where I am currently living has a wave pool and another one has a pool, waterslide and lazy river.
Photo Credit: ©Kelly
/Adobe Stock

     When planning a day in the water, make sure to liberally apply sunscreen to the little ones. You can save money by visiting your local commissary for a picnic lunch. The delis can make sandwiches to order or you can pick up grab and go items. When going to a water park plan to take a break and head out to your car for lunch. It will save you bunches.

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 Staycation Ideas for Military Families Coast to Coast

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With so many prime duty stations around the country, it’s easy to find a fun, easy staycation to enjoy as a family.

Summer is a great time to explore all the fun that’s waiting for you right outside your door. To help get you started, we found super cool staycation ideas at three military-heavy areas.

Easy Staycation Ideas for Military Families Coast to Coast

There is a huge cross-service population in our three spotlight regions, with almost every branch represented in each location.

  • Washington, DC: our nations capital and the hub of military decision making at the highest levels
  • Virginia: with bases all over the state, VA has tons of military-friendly staycation options
  • Southern California: from Coronado to San Clemente, SoCal is the spot for the USMC, Coast Guard and Navy

Which easy staycation ideas will you try this winter?

Explore Washington, DC this Summer

Summer heats up fast in the city! But high temps and humid days shouldn’t deter your military family from enjoying everything our nation’s capital has to offer.

  • Sunset & Evening Parades: head to Arlington Cemetery (Tuesday evenings) or 8th & I (Friday nights) for the USMC’s famous silent drill team. You’ll love the spirited marches and historic settings. Did you know that the small Marine base in DC is the oldest post in the Corps?
  • Festivals on the Mall: tents go up all summer long for cool festivals on the Nation’s Front Lawn – the National Mall! From early July with the Folklife Festival right through the end of summer, there is always something happening here. Best of all, it’s free!
  • Hike DC: head out into the wilds of DC, an unexpected place to take a nature walk. One great spot is Theodore Roosevelt Island, a nature preserve right in the middle of the Potomac.
  • Museums Galore: escape the heat in one of DC’s many amazing museums. As a bonus, most are free! Explore the history of spies, gaze upon all 45 presidents, or learn about US history in and around the Mall.
  • Honor at Arlington: with lush green trees and tons of grass, Arlington Cemetery is extra peaceful in the summer – the height of visitor season! Visit Robert E. Lee’s historic home, then head down the hill to pay your respects to the Kennedy clan.
  • Georgetown Date: for a fun and easy date night, head to Georgetown. Stop at any of the yummy gourmet restaurants or pubs for drinks and appetizers before you grab dinner at Martin’s Tavern. It’s extra romantic because President John Kennedy proposed to his then-girlfriend, Jackie, here!
Photo Credit: ©SolisImages /Adobe Stock

Enjoy Southern Hospitality in Virginia

From top to bottom, Virginia is practically bursting at the seams with military bases and troops! The heaviest concentration is in the southern Tidewater region and around the greater DC area, near Quantico.

If you’re in Northern Virginia, check out these fun staycation and day trip spots:

  • Mount Vernon in Summer: take a river cruise and learn about farm life for George Washington! There are acres and acres to explore with your family!
  • Go West to Wine: take route 66 west to a laidback wine region. In and around Delaplane, there are several excellent wineries crafting wine with local grapes. Brings your kids and pups to Barrel Oak for a whole day of holiday cheer!
  • Explore Quantico: it’s more than a Marine base! Go to the National Museum of the Marine Corps and enjoy roaming the beautiful grounds. Then head to lunch at the Globe & Laurel before swinging into Potomac Point Winery to end the day.
  • Enjoy the Great Outdoors: keep going west into the Blue Ridge Mountains. Rent a cabin or enjoy a luxurious resort hotel. You’ll love hiking along the Shenandoah Mountains!

If you’re in Southern Virginia, we love these cool activities and adventures:

  • Famous Hams: take a ride to historic Smithfield, home of the classic Smithfield ham. Tuck into a cozy resort or rental property. Take a hike near the river on beautifully maintained trails, then head into town for a tour of the Smithfield museum before enjoying a dinner featuring (what else) smoked ham.
  • Colonial Christmas: step back to colonial Virginia in Williamsburg. It’s a super fun place to celebrate our nation’s independence, right in the heart of the action!
  • Thrilling Adventures: use your Waves of Honor military passes to enjoy summer at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. You’ll love the hair raising rides, perfect for visitors of all ages!
  • Step into the Triangle: learn about the very first British colony in America at Jamestown. Then take the Colonial Parkway to Yorktown. In one day, you’ll experience the beginning and the end of the American colonial period!
  • Swim & Slide Inside: take a break from the heat and head to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg. This super family-friendly resort includes an indoor water park that’s sure to please kids of all ages. Make sure to ask about their military discount program!

Sunny SoCal is a Staycation Dream

Located in or around San Diego? You’re smack in the middle of a prime vacation destination!

This winter, check out:

  • Waves of Honor: hang with Shamu and company with your complimentary military admission tickets for SeaWorld. There’s even a special Sesame Street themed zone that’s perfect for little ones!
  • Wind Down in Temecula: book a tour of wine country (or self-chauffer with a designated driver) in Temecula! Stay the night in SouthCoast Resort to enjoy their spa packages. This lovely little wine region is famously family-friendly, with several wineries featuring play spaces for little ones.
  • Zoo After Dark: through September 2, visitors can enjoy the famous San Diego Zoo at night, with extended hours! Summer is a great time to stay later since many animals are nocturnal. Special shows and performances are also scheduled all summer long!
  • Stroll in Gaslamp: make it a date night to remember in San Diego’s Gaslamp district. You’ll find almost any cuisine you can imagine here! After dinner, grab drinks at a breezy pub or stroll toward the Esplanade to listen to the waves.

What are your favorite staycation ideas for your duty station? We’d love to feature even more amazing locations in the future!

Parham Is DeCA’s New Director of Public Health, Safety

By

NEWS RELEASE

Defense Commissary Agency

Corporate Communications

1300 E Avenue, Fort Lee, VA 23801-1800

Tel:  (804) 734-8000, Ext. 8-6105  DSN: 687-8000, Ext. 8-6105 

FAX: (804) 734-8248  DSN: 687-8248

www.commissaries.com

Release Number:         49-19                                                                                                                        

Date:                              June 17, 2019

Media Contact:             Kevin L. Robinson, public affairs specialist

Tel.:                                (804) 734-8000, Ext. 4-8773

E-mail:                           kevin.robinson@deca.mil

Parham is DeCA’s new director of public health, safety

By DeCA Corporate Communications

FORT LEE, Va. – Army Lt. Col. Angela M. Parham is the Defense Commissary Agency’s new director of public health and safety, announced Rogers E. Campbell, executive director of DeCA’s Store Operations Group.

She replaces Army Col. Alisa R. Wilma, who moved on to Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas, as the deputy commander for DOD’s Regional Health Command-Central.

Parham reports to DeCA June 21from United States Army Central Command (USARCENT) headquarters at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, where she was the command veterinarian. There she was responsible for overseeing USARCENT’s veterinary services mission that encompasses animal health, zoonotic disease risk mitigation and food protection activities.

As DeCA’s director of public health and safety, Parham leads a staff in Asia, Europe and the United States that plans and implements the agency’s consumer health and safety programs. Her directorate oversees health and safety site visits to commissaries and other DeCA facilities to include disposition of issues identified. Parham’s staff also acts as DeCA’s liaison with other military and federal public health, food safety, and personnel safety elements.

 “Lt. Col. Parham has had a world of experience in the realm of health and safety,” Campbell said. “We’re confident that she’ll lead our dedicated team of civilians and military members as we continue to ensure the products in our commissaries and the stores themselves are the safest possible.”  

            Parham has been a veterinarian for 22 years, graduating veterinary school in 1997 from the University of Georgia. She subsequently entered active duty as a captain in the Army Veterinary Corps. Her previous assignments included stops at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida; Camp Walker, South Korea; Fort Gordon, Georgia; and Fort Wainwright, Alaska, where she was commander of the Alaska District Veterinary Command.

During her assignment at USARCENT, Parham, though stationed in Shaw Air Force Base, traveled frequently to the Middle East, working in Kuwait, Egypt, Qatar, Afghanistan, Oman, Jordan, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

From 2014 to 2016, she completed an applied epidemiology fellowship with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Epidemic Intelligence Service, working in Atlanta, Georgia, and deploying to Sierra Leone.

 From 2013 to 2014, Parham served as the command veterinarian for the Area Support Group-Kuwait at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, where she supervised clinical and preventive veterinary services in Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates and Oman.

“I’m excited to be part of Team DeCA and connected to its mission of ensuring our patrons get the most efficient, effective and safest benefit possible,” Parham said. “I know our staff at public health and safety will continue to work tirelessly to help protect our patrons and employees.”

            Parham earned both her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree in biological services (1991) and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (1997), from the University of Georgia. She also earned a Master of Preventive Veterinary Medicine degree (2008) from Texas A&M University.

Parham is a board certified Diplomat of the American College of Veterinary Preventive.

-DeCA-

Veteran Suicide – A personal Perspective

By

By Marguerite Cleveland

     According to a Department of Veterans Affairs, the average number of veterans who died by suicide is 20 per day. It is an appalling number and one that just hits too close to home. My first experience occurred when a young soldier who lived in our neighborhood committed suicide. I didn’t know him, but it broke my heart that this young man lived down the street from me was suffering so much.

     Sometimes everything is done correctly by those that support a soldier or veteran and they still commit suicide. One situation that still haunts me is of a more senior NCO who was in treatment for PTSD and suicidal thoughts. The unit deployed again and he remained behind as part of the rear detachment so he could continue treatment. He ended up committing suicide in the safe space at the mental health facility on post. Needless to say everyone who knew him from his doctors, members of the rear detachment and his family were devastated. At the time, to help me deal with the situation and to help others in the unit, I spoke to a person who had lost his wife to suicide. He told me that it is not about us. Sometimes someone is in so much pain they just want it to stop.

     So what can we do about this statistic? Is there anything the average person can do to help? As a matter of fact there is. Consider taking the free online course S.A.V.E.  offered by the PsychArmor Institute. The simple steps of S.A.V.E. which stands for Signs, Ask, Validate, Encourage and Expedite, offer simple steps anyone can take when talking with Veterans at risk for suicide. The course was developed by the PsychArmor Institute in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs. The course is presented by Dr. Megan McCarthy, Deputy Director, Suicide Prevention. According to McCarthy, “You will develop a general understanding of the problem of suicide in the United States; understand how to identify a Veteran who may be at risk for suicide; and, finally, know what to do if you identify a Veteran at risk. Each of us has the opportunity to be that one person who makes a difference–the person who asks the question that can save a Veteran’s life, or the life of anyone struggling with the thoughts of suicide. Using the simple steps of S.A.V.E., we can all make a difference and #BeThere.”

     Sometimes with a problem so big it is hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Even just small steps like donating to an organization that helps prevent Veteran Suicide or just listening to someone who needs to talk can make a difference.

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