07-04-2010 Lowcountry Military Retiree News

Lowcountry Military

RETIREE NEWS T

VOL. 2 NO. 6 • FREE • S ERVINg M ILITaRy R ETIREES & V ETERaNS IN ThE L OWcOuNTRy • JuLy, 2010 Courtesy of Diggle Publishing - Publishers of the Airlift Dispatch & Navy Shoreline Lowcountry Retiree Profile

Normandy invasion remembered by local Veteran By 2nd Lt. Susan Carlson Joint Base Charleston Public Affairs Sixty-six years ago, Joint Base Charleston's 437th Airlift Wing began their first combat flight to the beaches of Normandy, France. The 437th Troop Carrier Group, as it was known then, was composed of four squadrons - the 83rd, 84th, 85th and 86th Troop Carrier Squadrons. What would become infamous in history as D-Day, became the inauguration of this Airlift Wing, which later found its home in Charleston, South Carolina.

One surviving D-Day veteran continues to aid the JB CHS mission working three to four days each week at either the Naval Weapons Station or the air force base for the past 15 years. Chief Petty Officer (Ret.) George Drury, now 84, was a Seaman Apprentice in the Navy on June 6, 1944, serving as a gunner's mate on the 40-foot long Navy Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel boats, which were armed with two 30-caliber machine guns.

The LCVP's brought the hundreds of thousands of infantry troops to shore that day, landing just a few hundred feet from the shoreline. If they got any closer, they ran the risk of becoming embedded in the sand. Mr. Drury's boat never got too close to be met with disaster.

"If we got broached, we had to take what guns we could and go with the Army," said Mr. Drury. "We all said, 'we ain't going with the Army', so we never got broached."

Each time they drove the LCVP's towards shore, they had to avoid mines near the beach because the boats would immediately explode upon contact, he said.

"Going in each time [to the beach], you would hear gunshots going off, and just hope that they weren't firing at us," said Mr. Drury.

The worst part of the invasion for Mr. Drury was nighttime. The German Army would use "Big Bertha" - large cannons on railroad cars - to bomb the waters. They would shoot four to five rounds, then move somewhere new so the Allied forces could not keep up with them, he said.

"They would shell us every night, and luckily they missed," Mr. Drury said. "We'd wake up in the morning

had taken his place only minutes before.

Mr. Drury only had one life threatening incident, when a young German came at him with a knife. Mr. Drury knocked the knife out of the youth's hand and has kept it as a memento till this day.

"That's my pride and joy," he said.

After 33 months in Europe, Mr. Drury returned home and married a South Carolina girl he had been writing during the war. He officially met Helen for the first time in 1945, married her three days later and together they moved to Charleston. He remained in the Navy Reserve for more than 22 years, serving in the Korean War and obtaining the rank of chief petty officer.

When asked about his overall thoughts about his experiences, Drury said, "I don't envy those guys going over to Iraq. It was a good experience, but I don't want to do it again. I'm glad to be home."

Photo by James M. Bowman Today, Mr. Drury continues to volunteer at the Chief Petty Officer (Ret.) George Drury talks about his experience during D-Day while at Naval Weapons Station Charleston in June. Naval Weapons Station Retiree Office helping retirees Chief Drury is now the Retiree Activities Officer for the Naval and widows of veterans, and also enjoys speaking to Weapons Station in Charleston. schools about his experiences.

"We need to know about the past," he said. "Even if you might not want to, you need to know." with shrapnel all over the boat. We would take our boat to His story, like many others of his generation, needs to get repaired, or repair it ourselves, then do it all over again." be heard before it is forever silenced.

After the Normandy landings, Mr. Drury remained on the beach for a few weeks ferrying soldiers back and forth before moving to the Rhine River to aid in the crossings of General George S. Patton's troops. The general gave them all a commendation after they ferried an entire regiment across in just above three hours, Mr. Drury explained.

The commendation letter from General Patton, which Mr. Drury keeps to this day, describes the four separate crossings that ferried more than 23,500 troops and 1,500 vehicles. General Patton commended them for their "superior work accomplished ... [and] for the superior Photo provided manner in which [their] tasks were performed," the letter Chief Petty Officer (Ret.) George Drury, pictured center as a reads.

Seaman Apprentice between 1943 and 1945, served as a Mr. Drury only became emotional when remembering gunner’s mate aboard a Navy Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel boat during the D-Day invasion. two friends in his company who lost their lives, one who

Published by Diggle Publishing Company • Publishing the Charleston Area’s Military Newspapers Since 1973

www.CharlestonMilitary.com • 843-972-2356 • Email: Chuck@CharlestonMilitary.com

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Editorial

July 2010

Lowcountry Military Retiree News

The passion to serve extends from country to family

By Rosalinda Babin Special the Lowcountry Military Retiree News With the speed of a bullet, the course of our son’s life, and ours, changed.

On the morning of March 31, 2003, we were notified that our son, CPL Alan Babin, Jr., a combat medic with the 82nd Airborne Division, had been wounded during battle in As Samawah, Iraq. As he was rushing to render aid to a fellow paratrooper, Alan was hit in the abdomen with small-arms fire.

Field physicians removed 90% of his stomach, his spleen, part of his pancreas, large intestine and he sustained injuries to his liver and diaphragm. Unable to survive evacuation to Germany, he was transferred to the USNS Comfort, anchored off the coast of Kuwait.

While aboard, Alan’s kidneys failed, his liver shut down and he was placed on dialysis and a ventilator - surviving 20 major surgeries before being transferred to Walter Reed where we were finally able to be at his bedside; three weeks after he was wounded. Six weeks, and many surgeries later, Alan contracted meningitis and suffered a stroke.

Because Alan was severely wounded in the very early days of Operation Iraqi Freedom, many of the current programs and systems for the wounded, and their families, were not in place. I quickly learned that in order to obtain the best medical care for our son, I would need to roll up my sleeves, use my background as a paralegal and office manager, and put my skills to work for him.

The terms “polytrauma” and “TBI” were not yet common and, while the physicians and trained staff we encountered were among the best, brightest and most dedicated in the world, I knew my son better than anyone, and did my best to educate myself on the options available to him and to advocate on his behalf.

As devastating, and traumatic, as the wounds from the gunshot were to Alan physically, we prepared ourselves emotionally and spiritually for a lengthy rehabilitation.

However, no family is prepared for a brain injury and the unpredictability of recovery for every individual suffering from a brain injury. We have learned, first-hand, that the end result may not be known for months (or years) and what works one year may not work the next or long-

term. Nothing could have prethe morning. I use everyday things as pared us for what was to follow therapy and ask Alan that he “try everyas our son remained inpatient for thing” when it comes to therapy. Very the next two-and-a-half years. importantly, I learned to keep our While I remained at Alan’s evenings and weekends free of therapies bedside at Walter Reed for seven and rehab and to find a balance between months and Brooke Army being a caregiver and simply being Medical Center for two months, “Mom.” I do my best to remember that my husband returned home to ours is a marathon, not a sprint, and that Texas to care for our 16 year old we must pace ourselves. This is easier daughter and return to work. We said than done as Alan now participates learned to tag-team so that I Rosalinda Babin with her son Alan Babin. in hand-cycling, adaptive skiing and could be present for our daughloves to travel as much as we do. ter’s scholastic events. We were fortunate to find a neuOur friends and family lovingly adapted to our needs rorehab center in central Texas where Alan could receive and schedules and we learned that keeping and maintaincare as an inpatient, and I could live at home with my ing an active social life was crucial. I am grateful for the husband and daughter, and manage his care during the Respite Care provided by the VA which allows me a day as he began the long struggle of rehab for the folbreak from caregiving duties and to travel with my huslowing fourteen months. band and/or daughter. Sometimes, it simply allows me My husband and I did our best to carve out time for uninterrupted time to “work” which is respite for me. each other as we focused on Alan’s recovery together, It is not lost on me that none of this could have hapand prayed that we would all come out of this journey pened without communication. People cannot help when whole; individually and as a family. We learned to find a they do not know that a need exists. I learned that in new normal, to be flexible and to educate ourselves on order to take care of Alan, I would have to take care of brain recovery and brain plasticity. myself and to communicate MY needs as assertively as I And, when Alan finally came home, I began the diffidid his. I learned to have a mental checklist so that cult, and most rewarding, role of my life. I was the when anyone asks if there is anything they can do to Primary Caregiver of a wounded warrior with a polytrau- help, I’m READY! We began the journey by creating a ma who had also survived a brain injury and was in need team of prayer warriors and have continued building of aid for all aspects of daily living, bowel and bladder teams along the way to support and surround Alan and management, wound care, transportation, meal preparaour family. tion, rehabilitation and a life-skills coach. My passions Through this journey, I have learned things about were reading, cooking, driving, traveling, research, webmyself, our son and our family that we may have never surfing, high-tech gadgets, self-help books, volunteering, learned otherwise. I learned that we raised resilient chilLion’s Club, organizing outings with friends and praying dren that love life and are not afraid of it. I learned that incessantly. I had been in “basic training” for this role the love and closeness we shared was stronger than I my entire life! ever imagined possible.

I eventually set up a system of home health care so Alan receives physical, occupational and speech therapy Cpl Babin and his family will be amongst the honored at home, instead of me driving him from appointment to guests at the Lt Dan Weekend taking place this Oct in appointment and the structure of a calm setting works Beaufort, SC. If you would like to support the veterans best for him. Although he would prefer that I provide all and help meet some of their travel expenses you can do of his personal care, I have a home-health-aide that so by texting a $5 donation to 20222 and entering assists with dressing, showering and getting him ready in AIDAVET.

Interested in having the Retiree News distributed at your location? Call 972-2356.

The Lowcountry Military Retiree News is published every month by Diggle Publishing Co., (843) 412-5861, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. government or U.S. military. Diggle Publishing Co. also publishes the base newspapers for the Charleston Air Force Base and the Naval Weapons Station. Contents of the Lowcountry Military Retiree News are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by Diggle Publishing Co. or

any branch of the U.S. military services. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts, does not constitute endorsement of the products or services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.

Editorial content is edited and prepared by Diggle Publishing Company. Sourced articles are provided by The Baguio RAO Bulletin. Other articles are submitted by

the Retiree Activities Office of the CAFB or NWS. Some articles are reprinted by permission of the Public Affairs Offices of CAFB and NWS. The deadline for submitting stories for space-available publication is ten (10) days before the end of the month for the following month’s publication. Our staff reserves the right to edit all copy submitted for publication.

Advertising space deadline: Ten (10) days prior to the end of the month for the following month’s publication.

Advertising materials deadline: Five (5) days prior to the end of the month.

For more information, call 843-412-5861.

Advertising / Editorial Contacts Classified and display advertisements may be referred to Diggle Publishing Company, P.O. Box 2016, Mount Pleasant, S.C., 29465. To find out display ad rates, go to www.CharlestonMilitary.com or visit www.Diggle Pub.com. Phone: 843-412-5861 • Fax: 843-856-0358.

Email: Chuck@CharlestonMilitary.com Publisher: Charles Diggle Editorial Advisors: Charles W. Short, CMSgt, USAF (ret), Retiree Affairs Office, CAFB / Art Foster, Volunteer Director, Retired Activity Office, MCAS Beaufort Editorial & Sales: Chuck Diggle Sales & Distribution: Sam Diggle

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Lowcountry Military Retiree News

July 2010

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July 20 Session for Citizens to Learn about County Government Learn how your tax dollars are spent – free, quarterly sessions offer public insight into county government!

By Jennie Davis Flinn Charleston County Public Information Charleston County Government is inviting residents into the classroom, and the subject is local government.

For residents who want to know where their tax dollars go, the Charleston County Citizens’ Academy is offering free quarterly sessions on different topics to provide residents with a further understanding of county government.

Citizens’ Academy is offered as one-day sessions on a quarterly basis. Topics include the county budgeting process, garbage and recycling, law enforcement, the court system, emergency services, planning and zoning, and much more.

The first two sessions were held on March 9 and May 4, and the third quarterly session will be held on Tuesday, July 20, with separate morning and afternoon sessions.

Residents may attend one or both of the sessions.

July 20 Morning Session, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.: Public Safety Location: Charleston County Emergency Operations Center (4045 Bridge View Drive; North Charleston) Moderators: Rae Wooten, Coroner, and Jason Patno, Director of Charleston County’s Emergency Management Department Topics: Coroner, Emergency Management, Emergency Operations Center/Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Consolidated Dispatch

July 20 Afternoon Session, 1-5 p.m.: Charleston County Judicial System Location: Charleston County Detention Center (3481 Leeds Avenue, North Charleston) Moderator: Chief Deputy Mitch Lucas, Charleston County Sheriff’s Office Topics: Sheriff’s Office, Overview of the Charleston County Detention Center, Tour of Detention Center There is no formal registration required for the workshops; however, County staff would like to have an idea of the number of people who plan to attend. Residents should e-mail Mai Green at maigreen@charlestoncounty.org or call (843) 958-4000 if they plan to attend.

Trident Technical College To Hold Adjunct Faculty Fair

By Beth Hicks Trident Technical College Trident Technical College’s Division of Academic Affairs will hold an Adjunct Faculty Job Fair 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 20 on TTC’s Main Campus in the College Center (Bldg. 920).

The college is seeking talented instruc-

tors who are committed to providing students with the best learning experience possible. Prior teaching experience is preferred but not required. Adjunct faculty is needed for traditional classroom courses for all campuses and locations as well as some online courses.

Requirements vary depending on teaching discipline. A master’s degree and

at least 18 graduate hours in the subject are required for astronomy, math, biology, chemistry, physics, English, history, art history, philosophy, Chinese, Spanish, French, music, speech, social sciences, computer technology, economics, management, hospitality, engineering, nursing, visual arts, radio/television/film, human services, religious studies, and early

childhood courses. A bachelor’s or associate degree with extensive work experience is required in most allied health, culinary, industrial technology and criminal justice courses.

For more information, visit www.tridenttech.edu/ttcjobs.htm or call 843-5746201 for an application.

Join our severely injured and ride with heroes!

This October, The Independence Fund, in conjunction with Main Street Beaufort, USA and the 16th Annual Beaufort Shrimp Festival will host well known entertainer and supporter of the troops, Gary Sinise, when he leads his “Lt. Dan Band” in a FREE concert for the troops and general public in Beaufort, SC. This will be the Emmy Award winning and Oscar nominated actor’s first return trip to the Lowcountry since filming his memorable role in the 1994 hit movie, Forrest Gump.

In addition, the weekend’s festivities will include a family 5K run/walk through historic downtown Beaufort, a fully supported bicycle ride for the veterans at the Marine Corps Air Station, and “Battledress,” a Veteran’s Art Exhibit featuring the dramatic works of our female warriors that will be hosted by Lt. Dan Band co-founder, Kimo William’s, at the Charles Street Gallery.

IMPORtANt NuMBERS FOR REtIREES & VEtERANS Defense Finance and Accounting Service - 800-321-1080 Casualty Assistance - 877-353-6807 Social Security Administration - 800-772-1213 Veterans Affairs - 800-827-1000 *All numbers are toll free

If you are a severely injured vet with a 30% or greater disability rating or a Purple Heart recipient your registration fee will be waived. For everyone else, by registering early you will help us fund the airfare, meals and four days of lodging for the seventy-five severely injured vets and their caregivers who will form the nucleus of the Lt. Dan Weekend.

That the event is even possible is due to the support and dedication of the inmates who make up Veterans Group Ironwood, (VGI) in California. VGI is a veterans organization unlike any other. Comprised entirely of inmates and guards in the California penal system, VGI was started by James “Sneaky” White, a highly decorated Marine and former Army Helicopter pilot who served multiple tours in Vietnam.

By selling pizzas in the prison canteen and recycling aluminum cans, VGI raised $15,000 that allowed the Independence Fund to provide numerous grants for deserving veterans and the seed money necessary to begin planning the Beaufort event. More than any individual or corporation, VGI understands how these rides and the love and support that the injured vets receive from the community over the course of the weekend can be life changing experiences for the participants. The VGI inmates, (many Vietnam Veterans) are motivated to do everything they can to help prevent the current generation of warriors from making some of the same decisions that resulted in their own incarcerations.

Their dignity and honor is exemplary.

For more information or to sign up for the 5K run/walk, please visit www.ltdanride.com or www.independencefund.org/

Actor Gary Sinise will be headlining the 2010 Beaufort Shrimp Festival in October with his Lt. Dan Band.

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Lowcountry Military Retiree News

Veterans' grave medallion now available for order Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki announced in late June that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering bronze medallions to attach to existing, privately purchased headstones or markers, signifying a deceased's status as a Veteran.

"For Veterans not buried in a national or state Veterans cemetery, or those without a government grave marker, VA is pleased to offer this option that highlights their service and sacrifices for our country," said Secretary Shinseki.

The new item can be furnished instead of a traditional government headstone or marker for Veterans whose death occurred on or after 1 NOV 90, and whose grave in a private cemetery is marked with a privately purchased headstone or marker. Under federal law, eligible Veterans buried in a private cemetery are entitled to either a government-furnished grave marker or the new medallion, but not both. Veterans buried in a national or state Veterans cemetery will receive a government headstone or marker of the standard design authorized at that cemetery.

The medallion is available in three sizes: 5 inches, 3 inches and 1 ½ inches in width. Each bronze medallion features the image of a folded burial flag adorned with laurels and is inscribed with the word "Veteran" at the top and the branch of service at the bottom. Next of kin will receive the medallion, along with a kit that will allow the family or the staff of a private cemetery to affix the medallion to a headstone, grave marker, mausoleum or columbarium niche cover.

More information about VA-furnished headstones, markers and medallions can be found at http://www.cem.va.gov/cem/hm/hmtype.asp.

VA is currently developing an application form for ordering the medallion. Until it is available, applicants may use the form for ordering government headstones and markers, VA Form 40-1330. Instructions on how to apply for a medallion are found on the VA Web site at www.cem.va.gov/hm_hm.asp.

The new medallions will be available only to veterans buried in private cemeteries without a government headstone or marker. Families of eligible decedents may also order a memorial headstone or marker when remains are not available for interment.

Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the VA Web site on the Internet at www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at 1 (800) 827-1000.

[Source: VA News Release 29 Jun 2010 ]

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VA’s Suicide Hotline: 10,000 Rescues and Counting

By Tom Cramer VA Staff Writer The Department of Veterans Affairs National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is on track to record its 10,000th rescue — an achievement likely to occur some time around the Fourth of July. That’s 10,000 Veterans who would not be here today had they not called the VA Lifeline and talked to a trained responder — a responder who deemed it necessary to take immediate action to save the caller’s life.

“These are people who call us, but they’ve already taken pills, or they have a gun in their hands, or they’re standing on a bridge,” explained Jan Kemp, VA’s National Suicide Prevention Coordinator. “These are the calls where we can’t wait. We call emergency services right away.”

VA’s Lifeline crisis center, which opened in July 2007, is staffed 24/7 by 20 responders, social workers, health technician assistants and counselors who handle 15 phone lines and three chat lines. The center, located in Canandaigua, N.Y., has received about 260,000 calls during its three years in exis-

tence.

“A lot of our callers just want information regarding mental health and other services available to them at their local VA hospital,” Kemp explained. “But some of the calls are more urgent. The person is clearly distressed. We try to provide them with immediate assistance...we’ll send someone out to their house to do a wellness checkup.”

In some instances, however, it becomes clear that the caller needs more than a sympathetic ear, more than an appointment with a VA counselor or psychologist, more than a wellness check-up at his or her home. “For some of them, this one call is their last resort,” Kemp said.

That ‘last resort’ moment arrived recently for a young Veteran in the Oakland, Calif., area.

“One evening last week a 26-year-old Iraq Veteran called our Hotline from the Oakland train station,” said Melissa Rath, a Lifeline responder. “He was distraught; our hotline staff worked with him, but we weren’t able to decrease his panic. He told us he wanted to jump in front of a train. We

could hear the trains over the phone. The Veteran hung up on us, stating he had no option but to die. We called the Oakland police, who in turn stopped the trains until they found him and took him to the local hospital.”

In another instance, a Lifeline responder found herself talking to a distraught Veteran who was behind the wheel of a truck, barreling down an interstate highway. He was on his way to VA staff photo deliver a load of cable from St. Someone to Listen — VHA Health Science Specialist Louis, Mo., to De Coyne, Ill. and Suicide Lifeline Responder Melissa Rath talks with “He told me he was a truck a caller. driver who was on the road all was able to convince him to go back inside. the time, with no real address,” explained I stayed on the phone with him while my Lifeline Responder Julianne Mullane. “He partner, Roger Cheney, called the local said he was going to kill himself with a 20police, who took the sailor to a local hospigauge shotgun when he got back to his tal for treatment.” home base. I asked him why he wanted to But Lifeline rescues don’t end when a die, and he said his father had died and he distraught caller is taken to the hospital. wanted to be with him. Leslie Brew, my “We always follow up with the Veteran partner, called the state police, and they the following day,” said Christopher agreed to intercept him. I let him know that Maginn, a Lifeline responder and Army the state police were going to pull him over for his own safety...I didn’t want that to be a Reservist who recently returned from Afghanistan. “Just because they’re rescued surprise.” doesn’t mean they won’t need our help The Veteran was safely pulled over by again. So follow-through is important. We police and taken to a nearby hospital. don’t want anybody falling through the Lifeline responder Terry Rose remembers an active duty sailor who called the cri- cracks.”

The phone number for VA’s Suicide sis center one evening from his base in Prevention Lifeline is 800-273-TALK Virginia.

(8255). The chat line address is www.sui“He was standing on the roof of a buildcidepreventionlifeline.org. ing and preparing to jump,” Rose said. “I

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July 2010

Lowcountry Military Retiree News

Hurricane readiness: simple steps to a safe season

By Senior Airman Brandon Barnes 628th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management journeyman, Joint Base Charleston June kicked off what could be a very intense and unpredictable six-month-long hurricane season.

Members of Joint Base Charleston (JB CHS) and the local community should educate themselves on what items they will need and what resources are available to prepare themselves, their family members and their pets.

It's important to know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. A hurricane watch is an announcement of specific coastal areas that a hurricane or a developing hurricane condition poses a possible threat within 48 hours. A hurricane warning is issued when winds of 74 miles per hour or higher associated with a hurricane are expected in a specified coastal area within 36 hours. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

Putting together an emergency supply kit as well as a "go bag" in the event of an evacuation is a must. All household members should know where the kits are located and what the family evacuation plan is. Some items to include are copies of prescription medication, required medical supplies, bottled water, a battery-operated radio, a first-aid kit, maps of evacuation routes, clothing and bedding. Also, have copies of important documents such as social security cards, proof of residency and insurance policies. It is important to remember that if evacuation is ordered by the wing commander, be sure to have your vehicle filled with gas and keep plenty of cash with you as credit card machines and ATM's may not work.

The U.S. operates off a 5-tier system known as the Saffir-Simpson Scale for categorizing the severity of a storm and its potential storm surge. Use this chart for reference: Category one hurricane: Will have winds between 74 and 95 miles per hour. This hurricane will cause minimal damage, including damaging unanchored mobile homes, vegetation and signs.

Category two hurricane: Will have winds between 96 and 110 miles per hour. This hurricane will cause moderate damage, including damaging all mobile homes, roofs, small crafts and cause flooding.

Category three hurricane: Will have winds between 111 and 130 miles per hour. This hurricane will cause extensive damage, including damaging small buildings and cutting off low-lying roads.

Category four hurricane: Will have winds between 131 and 155 miles per hour. This hurricane will cause extreme damage, including destroying roofs, taking down trees, cutting roads off, destroying mobile homes and flooding beach homes.

Category five hurricane: Will Photo by Master Sgt. Bill Huntington have winds more than 155 miles OVER NEW ORLEANS -- tech. Sgt. Keith Berry looks down into flooded streets per hour. This hurricane will cause searching for survivors in New Orleans, Louisiana, back in August 2005. He was part catastrophic damage, including of an Air Force Reserve team credited with saving more than 1,040 people in the destroying most buildings, destroyaftermath of Hurricane Katrina. He is a pararescueman with the 304th Rescue ing vegetation, cutting off major Squadron from Portland, Ore. roads and flooding homes.

In addition to the hurricane scale, the National Hurricane ery operations and listen to the radio or television for inforCenter in Miami works with Joint Base Charleston using a mation regarding resumption of work schedule and recall slightly different notification system called HURCONs or personnel as approved by the wing commander.

Hurricane Conditions.

The Readiness and Emergency Management Flight at JB Hurricane Condition 4 - Winds of 58 mph or more are CHS has Natural Disaster Handbooks and they are available expected within 72 hours for distribution. They can also be found on the Air Force Hurricane Condition 3 - Winds of 58 mph or more are Portal on the Joint Base Charleston Readiness and expected within 48 hours Emergency Management Community of Practice.

Hurricane Condition 2 - Winds of 58 mph or more are Additonally, www.charleston.af.mil/library/hurricaneinforexpected within 24 hours mation/index. asp offers extensive information on hurriHurricane Condition 1 - Winds of 58 mph or more are canes and how to properly prepare for them. expected within 12 hours The Federal Emergency Management Agency also has a Hurricane Condition Black - Severe winds have website dedicated to providing disaster information to the passed. All personnel remain in shelter until mission essenpublic. Visit www.ready.gov for a full list of suggested tial personnel perform initial damage assessment. emergency supplies, how to make a disaster plan and to All Clear - Destructive winds have ceased. Begin recov- stay informed.

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TRICARE Makes Traveling within the U.S. Carefree FALLS CHURCH, Va. – Preparing for a road trip or vacation requires planning – what to pack, where to stay and what to do – but taking a few minutes to think about health care before hitting the road can save a lot of hassles.

To reduce the chance of health care problems while traveling, beneficiaries should see their doctor to take care of any regular office visits or treatment for ongoing conditions before leaving town. TRICARE Prime beneficiaries get routine care from their primary care manager (PCM), while TRICARE Standard beneficiaries can go to any TRICARE-authorized provider. Regardless of the TRICARE plan you use, it’s a good idea to get routine care before leaving home.

If beneficiaries need emergency care while traveling, they should seek treatment immediately by calling 911 or going to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Prime beneficiaries do not need prior authorization for emergency care, but they should notify their PCM within 24 hours or on the next business day so follow-up care can be coordinated. TRICARE Standard beneficiaries have no follow-up requirements after receiving emergency care.

Beneficiaries who need medical treatment for urgent illnesses that are not an emergency may go to an urgent care facility. For urgent care, beneficiaries should contact their PCM for a referral or call their regional health care contractor for assistance before receiving care. For Prime beneficiaries, failure to obtain a referral may cause care to be covered under the point-of-service option, which means higher costs.

Before traveling, TRICARE beneficiaries should make sure their Defense

College Information Briefing for Veterans and Families

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Tuesday, July 13 • 6 p.m.

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Trident Technical College’s Main Campus 7000 Rivers Ave., North Charleston College Center (Bldg. 920)

Trident Technical College invites veterans and their families to learn about admission, registration, financial aid including veterans educational benefits, the Veterans Upward Bound program, and the VETS Center on Main Campus.

College staff will be on hand to answer questions after the briefing. Full-time tuition for 2010-11 is only $829 with $936 in lottery assistance.

For more information, please call 843.574.6882.

Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) information is accurate. For more information about DEERS and how to update DEERS records go to www.tricare.mil/DEERS. Beneficiaries who take prescription medicine should order refills before their trip. If it’s necessary to get a refill on the road, the nearest network pharmacy in the U.S. can be found http://member.express-scripts.com.

Save all medical receipts! This is one of the most important things beneficiaries can do while traveling away from home.

For more information about traveling with TRICARE, beneficiaries can go to www.tricare.mil or contact their regional health care contractor: TRICARE South Region, Humana Military Healthcare Services, Inc. 1-800-444-5445, www.humana-military.com

Find Medication Information Fast with New tRICARE Formulary Search tool FALLS CHURCH, Va. – Beneficiaries and providers can use the new TRICARE formulary search tool to find the most upto-date information about prescription medications.

Located at http://pec.ha.osd.mil/formulary_search.php, the new formulary search tool allows beneficiaries to easily find which medicines are in the uniform formulary. These are available at all fullservice military treatment facilities and covered by TRICARE. Once a user has identified if a drug is available, they can use the search tool to get information on a drug, such as restriction on use. The tool also shows if the medication is Tier One (with a $3 copay,) Tier Two (with a $9 copay) or non-formulary (requiring a $22 copay.) It also shows when a generic equivalent is required.

As an added benefit, the new TRICARE Formulary Search Tool has integrated the Prior Authorization and Medical

Necessity forms and criteria into a search engine while still maintaining a page with a complete list of all criteria and forms.

Any restrictions such as quantity or age limits are displayed in one location.

“This should make it easier to find all relevant information about a specific drug instead of trying to click on different links to other web pages and sort through vast amounts of information,” said Jeremy Briggs, Pharmacy Operations Center official and search tool designer. “The idea is to have all that information available with one search, but still link back to pages for in-depth information.”

The search tool’s functionalities will increase and become more refined, based on feedback provided by patients and providers. According to Briggs, “The new TRICARE Formulary Search Tool is adaptable to meet the ever changing needs of our beneficiaries and we are planning to meet those needs.”

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July 2010

Enjoy the Sun, But Avoid the Burn

By Dr. Jack Smith Acting Chief Medical Officer, TRICARE Management Activity Cold weather, short days and big coats are a thing of the past. Summer is finally here! It is now time to enjoy warm weather, long sun-filled days and light, airy clothes.

But nothing can ruin summer fun quite like a sunburn. Not only is sunburn a painful condition, the skin damage is often permanent and can have serious long-term health effects.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), significant problems are experienced by millions of sunburned people each year.

TRICARE wants you to be informed of potential risks and ways to protect yourself and family members when outside enjoying the summer days.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you protect your skin from sun exposure everyday, not just on sunny days. Exposed skin should be protected from excessive sun exposure to the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Many are unaware that UV rays can cause harm on cloudy and hazy days as well as bright and sunny days. You should know that UV radiation is at its peak during the late spring and early summer in North America.

We have all observed that sunburn can occur in a very short time in light-

skinned individuals with midday sun exposure. And although a darkskinned person may be less sensitive, sun exposure can burn and damage dark skin, too. Whether light or darkskinned, a sunburn can be very harmful. The skin becomes red, painful and tender to touch. Blisters may develop hours, to days later. The skin may also peel on sunburned areas after several days. For a serious sunburn, you may need to seek medical attention.

One serious long-term health problem is the heightened risk of developing skin cancer. The NIH reports that skin cancer usually appears in adulthood, but is caused by sun exposure and sunburns that began as early as childhood.

Unprotected sun exposure can also cause premature aging of the skin.

So don’t let too much sun exposure spoil your summer fun. To prevent damage, CDC recommends these measures for sun protection: • Use sunscreen with sun protective factor (SPF) 15 or higher –look for both UVA and UVB protection. Apply it generously, and remember that many

brands require periodic reapplication if you’re sweating or swimming.

• Wear clothing to protect exposed skin.

• Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade the face, head, ears and neck.

• Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block as close to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays as possible.

• Stay in the shade, especially during midday hours.

To help beneficiaries catch potential

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Learn more about sunburn and sun safety at http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.asp.

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Lowcountry Military Retiree News

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9

Survey says Charleston AFB Shoppette value at the pump

By Joseph R. Puryear Jr. Army & Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs According to a recent Short-Term Energy Outlook report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, "the annual average regular-grade retail gasoline price will increase from $2.35 per gallon in 2009 to $2.84 in 2010."

Forecasts of increasing energy prices has exchange officials reaching out to drivers to ensure they are aware of the procedures in place to determine pump prices at Joint Base Charleston as well as the benefits available to authorized exchange patrons.

While overall energy prices are beyond the Army & Air Force Exchange Service's control, their MILITARY STAR® Card, for example, can help curb added expenses and, in turn, save Airmen money when filling up.

"Anytime a customer uses a bank issued debit or credit card, the retailer pays a portion of the transaction to a third-party financial institution," said the Base Exchange's Celia Stetler. "Because the MILITARY STAR® Card is administered by the Exchange Credit Program, our Shoppette is not subject to the additional fees incurred through other 'pay at the pump' options. As a result, we're able to pass savings on to authorized exchange shoppers by taking a nickel off each gallon dispensed."

In addition to the five cents a gallon savings MILITARY STAR® Card holders enjoy every day, Joint Base Charleston Shoppette periodically offers steeper discounts, up to 20 cents a gallon.

Drivers interested in learning more about the MILITARY STAR® Card fuel discount can visit the BX at Bldg. 1990, or log on to www.aafes.com and click the MILITARY STAR® Card icon for additional details.

Beyond exclusive discounts, AAFES Shoppettes rely on a survey process to ensure prices are fair and competitive with the local community.

Specifically, AAFES conducts daily surveys of at least five locations selling motor fuel which are deemed by the local general manager to be the competition. Pump

prices are then set equal to the lowest price surveyed for each grade of fuel available.

"Because market-based pricing is not contingent on cost, we survey and change prices as frequently as necessary to remain competitive," said Celia Stetler. "In fact, even though AAFES is responsible for charging sales tax on gasoline, the surveys can result in prices that are actually even below cost."

Charging sales tax on fuel can raise the eyebrows of shoppers used to the tax-free benefit that the exchange provides on almost everything, except gas.

While it is true that AAFES, as a U.S. government instrumentality, is immune from state and local taxes, the immunity specific to fuel has been waived by Congress (Hayden Cartwright Act, 4 U.S.C. 104). AAFES, and by extension its customers, also pay federal tax pursuant the U.S. code that covers federal tax on gasoline (26 U.S.C. § 4081(a)).

Accordingly, AAFES pump prices include state, federal and local motor fuel taxes, as well as underground storage fees, etc. The federal and state taxes, as well as other applicable fees, are included in the price and paid to the appropriate taxing authority.

"Gas pricing is a very complex issue impacted by world markets, political and economic factors," said Celia Stetler. "With that said, we remain focused on delivering the best value possible to drivers at Joint Base Charleston."

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service is a joint command and is directed by a Board of Directors which is responsible to the Secretaries of the Army and the Air Force through the Service Chiefs of Staff. AAFES has the dual mission of providing authorized patrons with articles of merchandise and services and generating non-appropriated fund earnings as a supplemental source of funding for military Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs. To find out more about AAFES' history and mission or to view recent press releases please visit our website at http://www.aafes.com/pa/default.asp.

For more information or to schedule an interview with a local AAFES representative, please contact Joseph R. Puryear Jr., by telephone at 843-552-5000 Ext. 121 or email at puryearj@aafes.

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July 2010

BriEFs & EVEnts

TRICARE Dental Program Newsletter Delivers

Homebuyer tax credit extended to Sept. 30th

The TRICARE Dental Program newsletter, published three times a year, provides great information to enrollees about their dental benefits.

Topics covered in Issue 2 of the dental newsletter include details about enhancements made to the TRICARE Dental Program website, facts on getting dental care while traveling and ways to limit the amount of sugary drinks consumed by children.

A farewell message from Navy Capt.

Robert H. Mitton, chief, Dental Care Branch, to TRICARE beneficiaries is also included in this issue’s “Dentist Is In” column.

Mitton took over as chief of staff for TRICARE Management Activity June 21, 2010.

The TRICARE Dental Program newsletter is available for download on the public portal of TRICARE’s Smart Site at www.tricare.mil/tricaresmart. After entering the public portal, beneficiaries can click on their region, then “Dental” to view Issue 2 of the newsletter. At the Smart Site, beneficiaries can download copies of other TRICARE print products such as newsletters, flyers, and handbooks. The Smart Site is a one-stop shop for detailed information on the TRICARE benefit.

At www.tricare.mil/subscriptions beneficiaries can sign up to receive TRICARE newsletters, e-mail alerts about specific products found at the Smart Site and a variety of TRICARE news.

Homebuyers who qualified for the federal tax credit that expired April 30 have an additional three months to close their on their home purchases, thanks to an extension that President Barack Obama signed into law earlier this month.

Under the original legislation, eligible buyers had to sign contracts by April 30 and close the sales by June 30.

The volume of closings had overwhelmed some lenders. That, along with several other complications, put some buyers at risk of missing out on the June 30 closing deadline for the credit, which is $8,000 for first-time buyers and $6,500 for certain repeat buyers.

Buyers now have until Sept. 30 to close, under legislation that Congress approved and the president signed.

Another problem has been the time it takes to get lender approvals for short sales, or sales in which the purchase amount is lower than the outstanding debt. Those problems have surfaced locally and nationally.

Other reasons for the delays included a lack of funding for a U.S. Department of Agriculture loan program for homes in rural areas and a lapse in funding for federal flood insurance. Buyers who needed flood insurance to close had been unable to purchase it. Early this month, Congress funded the flood insurance program through Sept. 30. Obama signed that legislation into law as well.

The extension means the tax credit’s effect on completed residential sales is likely to continue showing up in monthly data through September, instead of playing out in June. Pending home sales data had already shown a drop-off that experts say is related to the tax credit’s April 30 expiration.

Across South Carolina, the number of residential purchase contracts signed in May was down nearly 24% compared to last year, according to the S.C. Realtors Association.

VA offers newest edition of benefit handbook The 2010 edition of the Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors is available online at www1.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book.asp.

Produced by the Department of Veterans Affairs, the handbook’s chapters cover such topics as VA pensions, home loans, medals and records, special veterans groups, and other federal benefits.

People can view the handbook by individual chapters and sections, or download the entire document, in English or Spanish, in .pdf format. (Courtesy of VA)

Answers to Puzzle on Page 15

Lowcountry Military Retiree News to changing the nation with regards to the quality of support our veterans and their families could receive,” he added.

The “One Shirt” campaign in full swing and will conclude on Veterans Day in November. You can make a difference in a veterans’ life by ordering “One Shirt.”

You can purchase your shirt on our website at www.armedforcesracing.com..

On-line yard sale 437services.com at Charelston AFB has gone electronic and are hosting their own e-saling site. Here you can post your own items for sale, provide seller information, name your price, and upload photos of your items. Buyers can peruse the photos and contact you, the seller, directly. It's free to all active duty, reservists, retirees, DoD civilians, contractors, and their family members. To get started, go to www. 437services.com and look under Quick Links, and click on e-sale.

“One Shirt”- A National Awareness Campaign Focuses on Veteran Support Services Due to the overwhelming success of the “One Shirt” Campaign, Armed Forces Racing, LLC has extended the campaign through Veteran’s Day. AFR teamed up with Sam Bass Galleries of Concord, North Carolina on this program to benefit military veterans and their families all across the country.

The “One Shirt” campaign was developed with the help of Sam Bass, a long time supporter of our men and women in uniform, to help bring national awareness of the many issues our veterans face as they return to the home front. “I am excited to be a part of this program,” said Sam. “The men and women of our Armed Forces stand ready to do their part to protect the freedoms we all enjoy, so now it’s our turn to show them how much we appreciate their service,” he added.

Funds raised from the “One Shirt” campaign will go to launch Veterans’ Hope, a non- profit, grass-roots mobile information command center. The command center will harness the efforts of hundreds of veteran-based charity and veteran-owned businesses across the nation. Through this network, Veterans’ Hope will connect our service men and women all across the country with organizations that can provide the assistance they need, where they need it.

The concept of the campaign is simple: One Shirt Can Change a Veteran’s Life...Two Shirts Can Change a Nation. “If everyone in this country bought a “One Shirt” Sam Bass original t-shirt, the money raised can help change a veteran’s life,” said Rick Ecker, President and CEO of Armed Forces Racing and Veterans’ Hope.

“If families bought two shirts, then we would be well on our way

972-2356

rEtirEE updatEs In the Event of a Military Retiree's Death

Lowcountry Military Retiree News

Stopping retirement pay is critical to avoid indebtedness. Notify DFAS 1-800321-1080 (if receiving normal retired pay). Have readily available: Social Security number of deceased annuitant, Annuitant’s date of death, Name, address and telephone number of next-of-kin or contact person, Specify who will send a copy of the death certificate. Notify Department of Veterans Affairs 1-800-827-1000 (if receiving disability pay from VA).

Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) election. Designated annuitants will receive notification from DFAS if the deceased retired military member elected the SBP. If you are uncertain of whether an election was made, call DFAS at 1-800-321-1080. More information on SBP can be found at http://militarypay.defense.gov/survivor/sbp/index.html Update your military Identification card. As the survivor of a deceased Marine, your ID card must be updated to reflect the change in status due to the Marine’s death. Also, this will ensure you do not fall out of the DEERS system for Tricare benefits.

Notify the Social Security Administration. Call 1-800-772-1213 to apply for the $225.00 death benefit (if applicable).

A comprehensive Military Funeral Honors Guide can be found at www.mccssc.com/RAO/docs/funeralguide.pdf courtesy of the Beaufort Marine Corps Air Station Retiree Activities Office.

HONOR FLIGHT LOWCOUNTRY www.HonorFlightLowcountry.com What is Honor Flight? The Honor Flight Network was created with the mission of ensuring that each WWII veteran be given the opportunity to see THEIR memorial in Washington DC. The “ordinary people who saved the world” are provided this one-day trip at no charge to them.

What happens after the flight? Honor Flight veterans are treated to a well-deserved heroes welcome when they return to the Charleston International Airport.

Is medical support provided on the flight? Honor Flight Lowcountry does provide medical support on each flight to Washington DC. There are doctors, nurses and other medical professionals who’ve donated their time to serve on the flight.

Who pays for the Honor Flight? The Honor Flight Network receives NO government funding.

Trips cost around $50,000. All funds come from corporate and private sponsors. 100% of all donations go directly to the veterans and their Honor Flight.

What provisions are available for the veterans? Veterans are provided with t-shirts, meals, snacks, and a deluxe tour bus in addition to wheel chairs, oxygen and scooters as needed.

VA Copay Update 10: On 9 JUN, the VA announced that veterans who generally have higher income and no service-connected disabilities - referred to as Priority Groups 7 and 8 veterans - will now pay an additional $1 for each 30-day supply of outpatient medications.

Taking effect on 1 JUL, the increase to $9 from $8 is the first change in VA medication copay since 1 JAN 06. Veterans in Priority groups 2-6 will have NO increase in their copay. When asked why this increase was necessary the VA replied that the CPI for medication was increasing at a higher rate than the rest of the economy and this increase was deemed necessary. The prices will hold steady for the next 18 months and will again be looked at in JAN 2012.

Space "A" Travel Policy Update 02: A bill introduced by Rep. Don Young (R-AK) on 26 MAY would make space-available travel on military flights easier for retired reserve component members and their family members.

H.R.5404 would make travel available to those people on the same basis as it is now for retired members of the active component.

Currently, restrictions are greater for reserve component retirees and their families. In a press release, Young said, “Currently, if a Guardsman or Reservist retires before the age of 60, their dependents cannot fly space available on military aircraft. With a large number of Guardsmen and Reservists serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, this is a good way to show

July 2010

our support and appreciation for the men and women of our armed forces and the families that support them and support this country with all they have.” June 28th, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

Florida State Park Vet Passes: State Park Fees for Veterans S.B.2256 introduced by Sen. Andy Gardiner (R-9) and H.B.1145 introduced

by Rep. Leonard Bembry (D-70) has been passed and sent to the and or gratus Entrance Passes to eligible members of the military community who present proof of eligibility: 25% discounted Annual Entrance Passes for active duty and honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces, National Guard or reserve units of the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard.

No cost Life Entrance Passes for veterans with service related disabilities and surviving spouses of members of the US military who have fallen in combat.

The discounted Florida State Parks Annual Entrance Pass is only available for purchase at any Florida State Park staffed ranger station.

The no cost annual Life pass can only be obtained at a staffed ranger station. A list of staffed ranger stations can be found at www.floridastateparks.org/thingstoknow/doc/ annualpass/staffedrangerstations.pdf.

Satisfactory written documentation must be provided.

Coping With Deployments

Monday, July 12th 9am-1pm

What’s an Honor Flight Guardian? Guardians play a significant role on each Honor Flight trip.

The responsibility of the guardians is to ensure that each veteran has a safe and memorable experience. A primary duty of a guardian is to assist the veteran in getting to and from the airport and physically assisting the veteran during the flight and at the memorials. Guardians pay their own way on the Honor Flight and the trip is included with a $500 donation.

Honor Flight Lowcountry PO Box 12308 Charleston, SC 29422 (843) 906-0399

Psychological First Aid For Military Families Course

FREE course for military family members to help build resiliency and face the many changes experienced by military families.

How can I get my friend/family member on the flight? Visit www.HonorFlightLowcountry.com to download a veteran’s application.

What can I do to help the Honor Flight Network? The best thing you can do to help the Honor Flight Network is to spread the word! If you know a WWII veteran, please, get them registered for the next Honor Flight. Of course, your donations, no matter how small, are always welcome and needed to cover the costs associated with the flight. Honor Flight Lowcountry is a 501(C)(3) organization.

American Red Cross Carolina Lowcountry Chapter 8085 Rivers Ave. Suite F North Charleston

To Register: Call Call 764 2323 ext 373 Or Visit www.LowcountryRedCross.org (click on classes)

11

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Lowcountry Military Retiree News

July 2010

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Lowcountry Military Retiree News

July 2010

13

Don't rock the boat: Stay safe with Coast Guard tips

By Staff Sgt. Daniel Bowles Joint Base Charleston Public Affairs Whether it's pooling in a lake, flowing down a river or sloshing on the shores, water is not hard to miss in a Lowcountry summer. To aid members of Joint Base Charleston who take to it by boat, the command senior chief of Coast Guard Sector Senior Chief Petty Officer Jeffrey Dale U.S. Coast Guard Charleston recently weighed in venturing out into South Carolina waters.

According to Coast Guard Senior Chief Petty Officer Jeffrey Dale, a veteran of 23 years in the Coast Guard and Navy combined, a successful waterborne adventure can most easily be summed up in five top tips with one simple, overriding theme. Staying safe on the water, means being educated on the dangers and how to avoid them.

"Safety's always first," he said. "The ocean is an unforgiving place. It's not like jumping in a car."

Whereas automobiles are driven year round, a personal boat for some may be dusted off only a few times each spring or summer. So, Senior Chief Dale recommends being familiar with one's vessel and keeping the right equipment on board.

A professional fishing reel might help bring in a whopping trophy fish, but it didn't quite make the senior chief's list. The essential gear Senior Chief Dale recommends is: • Lifejackets • Flares, signal mirror, dye markers • A marine band radio • A sound making device • Flashlights "If someone is out in a 17-foot john boat in camouflage, he is going to be much easier to find with that equipment," he said.

Another device Senior Chief Dale recommends is an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon, or as the senior chief calls it, an EPR. Although this particular EPR won't help enlisted Airmen make their next rank, it just might save a life. The device transmits a signal which can pinpoint an individual's location via satellite. The device can be purchased at any good marine store, the senior chief said.

With water in high supply in the Lowcountry, playing it safe is a safe bet for members of Joint Base Charleston - not just for oneself, but for those without wingmen on the water. Many rescues are performed by "good Samaritans," said Senior Chief Dale, but the term shouldn't be confused with being a hero.

Specifically, the senior chief said that intoxicated individuals should be considered "off limits." If intoxicated individuals are observed on the water, do not approach them, he advised. Instead, call in the report to local law enforcement.

To report an incident or call in an emergency to Coast Guard Sector Charleston, call the 24-hour line at 740-7050.

“

Safety's always first.

The ocean is an unforgiving place. It's not like jumping in a car.

”

Courtesy graphic

With the lakes, tributaries and ocean border of South Carolina, Charleston's harbor is just the beginning of the opportunities for recreational boating and water sports. the state boasts more than 50 rivers and 10 major lakes, so when out on the water, follow guidance from Coast Guard professionals, look out for others and have a wingman on the water. For more information on South Carolina bodies of water, visit www.sciway.net.

BY

THE NUMBERS

the following tips from the u.S. Coast Guard are highly recommended for boating and water sport safety:

1 Life jackets: Adults should don when conditions warrant, such as choppy water and high speeds. Children should always wear them.

2 Communications: use a marine band radio, so other boaters and the Coast Guard can pick up a "mayday" distress call. Don't use a cell phone as a safety line.

3 Check the weather: Before going out on the water, know the weather conditions for the duration of the venture and know the weather limitations of the vessel to be used.

4 File a float plan: Leave an itinerary with a trusted individual. List dates, times and locations for the departure, arrival and waypoints. Also list other individuals traveling on the vessel. After making the plan, stick to it.

5 Intoxicated boating is illegal: Alcohol and boating don't mix. the symptoms are the same on water as on the road - delayed reactions, impaired senses and lapse in judgment. the effects can be deadly.

14

July 2010

REtIREE RESOuRCES Arlington National Cemetery For general information call 703-607-8000. Contact the Interment Services Branch at 703-607-8585 regarding funeral arrangements and eligibility requirements. Please note that the Arlington National Cemetery staff does not make pre-arrangements. Visit the Web site at www.arlingtoncemetery.org Armed Forces Retirement Home-Washington Campus Phone toll free 800-422-9988 or fax 202-730-3492. For general questions send an e-mail to publicaffairs@afrh.gov and specify “DC” in the subject line. Visit the Web site at www.afrh.gov.

Armed Forces Retirement Home-Gulfport Campus Closed because of Hurricane Katrina, the Gulfport campus was severely damaged and is currently being rebuilt. Phone 228-604-2205. For general questions, send an e-mail to publicaffairs@afrh.gov and specify “Gulfport” in the subject line.

Visit the Web site at www.afrh.gov.

Armed Forces Vacation Club The Armed Forces Vacation Club is a space-available program offering Department of Defense-affiliated people affordable condominium vacations at more than 3,500 resorts worldwide.

For more information, visit www.afvclub.com/default.asp.

Delta Dental Plan for Retirees For inquiries, call 888-838-8737 or visit www.ddpdelta.org.

DOD Lodging Reservations Air Force, 888-235-6343 (AFLODGE) -- after the prompt, dial first three digits of base name -- or visit http://dodlodging.net/; Army, 800-462-7691 (GOARMY-1) or visit www.armymwr.com/portal/travel/lodging/; Navy, 800-628-9466 (NAVY INN) or visit www.navy-lodge.com; Marine Corps, visit www.usmc-mccs.org/lodging Medicare Call 800-633-4227 or visit www.medicare.gov.

Pay Matters Call the Defense Finance and Accounting Service-Cleveland Center toll free at 800-321-1080; fax 800-469-6559. SBP annuitants may use the same voice toll-free number, but the fax is 800-982-8459.

Social Security Call toll free 800-772-1213 or visit the Web site at www.ssa. tricare The Web site is www.tricare.mil. Choose from one of three regional numbers: West, 888-874-9378; North, 877-874-2273; South, 800-444-5445; overseas, 888-777-8343. If you are a Tricare for Life member, you can call 866-773-0404. Call the Tricare Information Center at 877-363-6337. For Tricare Retiree Delta Dental Plan inquiries, call 888-838-8737 or visit www.ddpdelta.org. tricare Mail-Order Pharmacy Program (Express Scripts, Inc.) In United States, call toll free 866-363-8667; or overseas, call 866-275-4732. Visit the Web site at www.expressscripts.com/TRICARE. VA matters For benefit inquiries, call 800-827-1000; life insurance 800-6698477; status of headstones and markers, 800-697-6947; special issues such as Gulf War/radiation/Agent Orange/Project Shad call 800-749-8387; and GI Bill and education matters call 888-442-4551. Visit the Web site at www.va.gov.

local nEws

Lowcountry Military Retiree News

Low Country Leathernecks celebrate the heroes The "always faithful" Low Country Leathernecks is a group of men, young and old that honor tradition and salute the men and women they call one of their own. These men and women are Marines of all ranks and status.

Organized years ago when Col. Mac Radcliffe relocated to Charleston, the Low Country Leathernecks is a group of current and former marines. It's membership consists of active, inactive and, retired Marines of all ages, rank and gender regardless of time and dates of service. Radcliffe wanted an informal setting in which Marines could meet and socialize. There were groups for Marines already established in the area, but those were more ceremonial.

He invited some fellow marines to lunch one day and that meeting grew into what is now a monthly luncheon held either at the Citadel in Mark Clark Hall on the second floor or the Shrine Temple at Patriots Point. There are no dues or fees for membership. The only expense is $15/person for the luncheon. Membership is open to all Marines, and Marine families, including spouses, parents and family members interested in enjoying the Marine Corps camaraderie. Members have joined the ranks by word of mouth invitation, including six WWII Marine Veterans.

Cpt. John Flinn was in line one day at a gas station where he happened to be wearing a Marine ball cap, when someone from the Low Country Leathernecks noticed it.

That member introduced himself and invited Flinn to their next meeting. This is often how new members join.

The six original Marines who started the Low Country Leathernecks have seen their ranks swell to a fraternity of approximately 100 people. They included the Naval ROTC unit at The Citadel among their members as well as the MECEPS' , also known as the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program.

Each year, in conjunction with the cadets and active duty Marines of the citadel the Low Country Leathernecks sponsor an elaborate, formal Marine Corps Birthday Ball to honor the military branch's Nov. 10 birthday. The evening is shroud in pomp and circumstance, with the most symbolic gesture centered around the birthday cake.

The guest of honor slices the first piece of the cake, then offers it to the oldest Marine in attendance. That Marine then passes it to the youngest Marine, symbolizing the old Corps and the new Corps. But make no mistake, Flinn said, "We're all one Corps of Marines. Our motto is ‘All ranks, all ages, all Marines.’”

Any Navy Corpsman whose served is welcome to attend.

The ball was originally held at Wild Dunes when 100 guests attended. Today it is held at Charleston place with over 650 attendees. There are Marines all over the

Photo provided

Lowcountry, including the reserve company at the Naval Weapons Station, security guards for the Navy Weapons Station and guards for the Navy Brig, a small detachment at the Air Force Base, local Marine recruiters and The Citadel and Marine Corps League.

"We're not trying to stay a select group. Marines are a select group anyhow, Radcliffe said.

Meetings are held at 11:30 a.m. the second Wednesday of every month at the Citadel when school is in session (September through November).The rest of the year, they meet at the Shrine Center on the second Tuesday of the month unless otherwise posted. At the meetings, there are 15 minutes to socialize followed by a buffet lunch. A guest speaker is invited each month to speak to the 50 to 70 members that attend. Wives are honored throughout the year on Mother's Day and Valentine's Day. The group also supports and donates to various organizations including The Bulldog Challenge at The Citadel, the Injured Marine Semper Phi Fund, and Semper Phi Society at The Citadel.

They also present the Mameluke Sword, which is a ceremonial side arm for the Marines, to the highest standing MECEP selected by Citadel officials.

The Low Country Leathernecks are also active in the Marine Toys for Tots program and they assist the ROTC at The Citadel when they do food collection drives.

Contributions are also made to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation and the Marine Military Academy.

Flinn writes a monthly blog and e-mail updates for members which can be found at www.lowcountryleatherneck@ blogspot.com. For more info, please e-mail lowcountry marine@aol.com.

Lowcountry Military Retiree News is published by Diggle Publishing Company P.O. Box 2016, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465 843-412-5861 • www.CharlestonMilitary.com

EntErtainmEnt

Lowcountry Military Retiree News

July 2010

July Crossword CLuES ACROSS 1. Mother (British) 4. Macaws 7. Senior officer 10. Latch onto something 12. Quality of a given color 14. Tooth on a gearwheel 15. Prima donnas 17. Cereal grain 18. Member of an ancient Iranian people 19. Room cooler 22. Leave a union 23. Icelandic poems 24. Unit of sound loudness 25. Trim and stylish 26. And, Latin 27. The Ocean State 28. A military meal 30. Hand (Spanish) 32. Overdose 33. A public promotion 34. Hat part 36. Turfs 39. 3rd or 4th Islamic month 41. Japanese martial art 43. Sec. of State 46. Off-Broadway theater award 47. Spiritual teacher 48. 98942 WA 50. Foot (Latin) 51. 84057 UT

52. Stalk of a moss capsule 53. Very fast airplane 54. The Wilderness Soc. 55. A meshwork barrier CLuES DOWN 1. Million gallons per day (abbr.)

2. Fake name 3. Film entertainments 4. Turn away from sin 5. A course or path 6. Opposed to a policy 7. Screenplay outline 8. Free from ostentation 9. Makes older 11. Explorer Polo 13. This (Spanish) 16. Units of action in a film 18. Contemporary 20. Clifford _____, playwright 21. Integrated data processing 28. Martinet 29. Suitable for use as food 30. African tribe 31. Enhance or decorates 34. Influence payments 35. Actress Farrow 37. Palm fruits 38. Taken dishonestly 40. Large southern constellation 41. Belongs to Lifetime’s Heidi 42. Growing outwards

Joke s of the Month Three Old Men Three elderly gentlemen were talking about what their grandchildren would be saying about them fifty years from now.

"I would like my grandchildren to say, 'He was successful in business'," declared the first man.

"Fifty years from now," said the second, "I want them to say, 'He was a loyal family man'."

Turning to the third gent, the first gent asked, "So what do you want them to say about you in fifty years?"

"Me?" the third man replied. "I want them all to say, "He certainly looks good for his age'!"

When You're Over 50...

• People call at 9 p.m. and ask, "Did I wake you?"

• People no longer view you as a hypochondriac.

• There's nothing left to learn the hard way.

• Things you buy now won't wear out.

• You can eat dinner at 4 p.m.

• You can live without sex (but not without glasses).

• You enjoy hearing about other people's operations.

• You get into a heated argument about pension plans.

• You have a party and the neighbors don't even realize it.

• You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge.

• You quit trying to hold your stomach in, no matter who walks into the room.

• You sing along with the elevator music.

• Your eyes won't get much worse.

• Your investment in health insurance is finally beginning to pay off.

• Your joints are more accurate meteorologists than the National Weather Service.

• Your supply of brain cells is finally down to a manageable size.

See the Answers on Page 10 43. Beer ingredient 44. Round hut

45. They serve on a ship 49. Chapeau

15

16

Lowcountry Military Retiree News

July 2010

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