An overview of the Blue Star Card Program bluestarcardhawaii.com mwrarmyhawaii.com REVISED: FEB 2011
What is the Blue Star Card Program? The Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (Family and MWR) Blue Star Card program is a deployment discount and activity program for Spouses and Families of combat deployed Army Soldiers. It is not a credit card! This program was created in 2004 by Family and MWR Hawaii and is a joint effort of all Family and MWR facilities. The primary goal of the Blue Star Card program is to support these Families and thank them for the sacrifices they make while their service members are deployed. The term “Blue Star” originated during World War I. The Blue Star Service Banner or Service Flag was designed and patented in 1917 by World War I Army Capt. Robert L. Queissner of the 5th Ohio Infantry who had two sons serving on the front line. This symbol quickly caught on amongst the Families of the Soldiers fighting on the battlefields of Europe signifying they had a loved one in the service. These flags were displayed in the windows of many homes throughout the United States as a sign of hope and pride. In keeping with the history and tradition of this symbol, it was a perfect fit for our program.
What’s new with the Blue Star Card Program? Several changes have been made since the Blue Star Card program launched in 2004. We have been able to expand the discounts offered by the program, as well as offer many special events and activities for our Families of deployed Soldiers. Please review our benefits and look for the Army Family Covenant logo. Anywhere you see the logo, it will mark a new or increased benefit or discount, courtesy of Family and MWR and the Army Family Covenant.
Create-a-Card
More Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Star Card Program: Do each of my children receive their own Blue Star Cards? No, only the Spouse or Family Care Plan Provider will receive the card. However, children are covered under the card and may use the card as well.
My Soldier was previously deployed and will be deploying again, do I need to get a new Blue Star Card? Yes, you do need to bring a copy of the new deployment (TCS) orders to Army Community Service to have a new card issued. This will ensure that you receive all of the benefits you are currently entitled to, as the old card expired when your Soldier returned from the last deployment.
I just got my Blue Star Card, what do I need to do to activate my card/ when do I begin receiving benefits? Once you receive your card from Army Community Service, there is no activation required and you may begin using your discounts immediately. However, if you will be taking advantage of the childcare benefits, you need to take a copy of your Soldier’s deployment orders to the Child, Youth and School Services, Central Registration Office so you can begin receiving the childcare discounts.
I have my Blue Star Card, but I don’t hear about events until they have passed. How can I receive information on Blue Star Card upcoming events? When you register for a Blue Star Card, we automatically enter your email address into our email database. If you are not receiving the emails, first check your spam folder. If that’s not the answer, simply email or call us and let us know that you are not receiving the emails. We try to send out weekly emails on our upcoming events or if any last minute specials come up, we will send those too. We also post all of our event flyers on our website at www.bluestarcardhawaii.com. You can find us on Facebook as well. Just search Bluestarcard Hawaii and become our friend!
My Soldier has returned from deployment, when does my Blue Star Card expire? The Blue Star Card events will end as soon as your Soldier returns; however, you will still be able to utilize the 16 free hours of childcare for up to 90 days after your Soldier returns. If you have additional questions or would like more information about the Blue Star Card program, please call 655-0002 or email Amanda.P.Montgomery@us.army.mil.
2nd Brigade Half Way party
1 What is the Blue Star Card Program?
Frequently Asked Questions 10
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Star Card Program: WHO is eligible for a Card? Spouses and designated Family Care Plan providers of Army combat deployed Active Duty/ Reserve/National Guard Soldiers or combat deployed DA Civilian employees stationed in Hawaii. Soldiers must be deployed for at least six months* and receive hazardous duty pay. *Spouses of Soldiers deployed for less than six months may also qualify. Please call 655-0002 to find out if you are eligible.
Application Instructions Applications are available online at www.bluestarcardhawaii.com. Please print and complete the Blue Star Card application and program waiver. Bring all of the required materials to either the Schofield Barracks ACS or the Fort Shafter ACS to receive your Blue Star Card. For eligibility requirements see page 9. 1. The following is a checklist of what to bring with you to ACS to receive your card: Completed Blue Star Card application Signed liability and photo release waiver
WHAT is a Blue Star Card? A discount and activity card intended to enhance the well being of Families during the stressful time of deployment.
WHERE can I use my Card? Blue Star Cards are accepted at many Family and MWR facilities and special events on Oahu Army installations. Please look for the complete listing on the Blue Star Card program flyer.
WHEN can I use my Card? Spouses and designated Family Care Plan Providers may get their cards as early as 30 days before the date on their Soldier’s deployment (TCS) orders. The Blue Star Card will be valid for the duration of the deployment, even when the Soldier is home on R+R! The card will expire as soon as your Soldier returns at the end of the deployment with exception to the childcare benefits. Those benefits will extend for 90 days after the Soldier returns.
HOW do I get a Blue Star Card? Bring a copy of your Soldier’s deployment (TCS) orders, along with your military dependent ID to either the Schofield Barracks or Fort Shafter Army Community Service (ACS) locations. If you are awaiting orders, you may still register one month prior to your Soldier’s deployment. Please visit ACS and ask for assistance from the Mobilization and Deployment team. If you lose your copy of your Soldier’s orders, the Mobilization and Deployment team will be able to verify that your Soldier is deployed and assist you with getting your card.
WHY should I get a Card? The Blue Star Card offers you many discounts at Family and MWR facilities, childcare benefits, and special events. It is a great way to stay active, meet new friends and other Spouses going through the same thing and most importantly have fun during this stressful time.
9 Frequently Asked Questions
Copy of your Soldier’s deployment (TCS) orders Your Military dependent ID card 2.
If you have children, they must be registered with Child, Youth and School Services (CYS Services) for you to receive the childcare benefits provided through the Blue Star Card program. The following is a checklist of what to bring with you to the CYS Services Central Registration Office, if your children are already registered with CYS Services. Blue Star Card Copy of your Soldier’s deployment (TCS) orders
3. If you are an Island Palm resident, you are eligible for additional deployment benefits. Contact your local community center for more information. Aliamanu Community (808) 275-3840
Porter Community (808) 275-3770
Canby Community (808) 275-3760
Rim/Red Hill Community (808) 275-3860
Ft. Shafter Community (808) 275-3820
Santa Fe Community (808) 275-3730
Hamilton Community (808) 275-3720
Tripler Community (808) 275-3870
Helemano Community (808) 275-3780
Wheeler Community (808) 275-3790
Kalakaua Community (808) 275-3750
Application Instructions 2
Facility Discounts
Blue Star Card Program is a CFC Recipient
Storytime @ the Family and MWR library
The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) is the annual fund-raising drive conducted by the Federal employees in their workplace. The mission of the CFC is to encourage philanthropy and to provide all Federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all. The Blue Star card program has been a proud CFC recipient since 2008. For more information on the Combined Federal Campaign, visit www.cfc-hawaii.org. Federal employees may designate contributions to the Blue Star Card Program by using code 90277. Mahalo for being a contributor to the Combined Federal Campaign. Your contributions count!
Family and MWR Staff @ The Pet Kennel 12 free days of pet care, with a limit of 2 kennel days per month, provided by Family and MWR Pet Kennel along with 10% off the regular boarding fee 10% off
At the Nehelani, Hale Ikena, Kolekole Bar & Grill, Mulligan’s and Leilehua Grill
10% off
Bowling fees at the Army Bowling Centers and $1 off Bowling Coupons available from www.bluestarcardhawaii.com
10% off
Craft classes at the Arts and Crafts Center
10% off
Any rental at Outdoor Recreation
10% off
On monthly Pool passes
10% off
Dinning and Entertainment at the Hale Koa Hotel
$10 off
On cottages at Pililaau Army Recreation Center (PARC)
$5 off
Golf Coupons at the Army Golf Courses available from www.bluestarcardhawaii.com
Big R: Paint and unWINEd
Child and Caregiver @ CYSS Child Development Center
Check out 4 DVD’s or CD’s instead of 3 at the Family and MWR Libraries Free Storytime taping on DVD at the Family and MWR libraries Webcam access and Video Tele Conference (VTC) capability at ACS Priority FRG classes for Blue Star Card holders from ACS
3 Facility Discounts
Walk off the Wait
Combined Federal Campaign 8
Redeployment is here!!!!
Childcare Benefits Free Child Youth and School Services (CYSS) childcare registration & re-registration 20% off CYSS full and part time care (this benefit begins 30 days before deployment and ends 90 days after the Soldier returns) 16 Free hours of hourly respite care (per child, per month) for children 6 weeks - 12 years through CYSS. (This benefit begins 30 days before deployment and ends 90 days after the Soldier returns) When the day finally arrives, Family and MWR will be there with you to celebrate the return of your Soldier. Family and MWR volunteer staff works hard to attend every redeployment ceremony and will provide each Family unit with one free purple orchid lei to greet your returning warrior with. Family and MWR also greets Soldiers returning home who do not have Family present to welcome them home with a job well done.
U.S. Army Hawaii Soldier happily reunited with his family
Eddie the Eagle @ Redeployment
Up to $100 for CYSS Team or Individual Sports per deployment, per child/youth Up to $300 for SKIES (Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills) classes per deployment, per child/youth $2 per hour, per child for any hourly care beyond the free respite care hours The EDGE! Program fees waived for the first week of every month
Health and Fitness Center Kids on Site Information: The Kids on Site care for the Health and Fitness center will remain free for valid Blue Star Card holders, Mon.-Fri., 8-11 a.m., at Kaala Community Activities Center, Bldg. 556. Registration is required. For more information please call 655-8313. The EDGE! Program: The EDGE! Program offers out-of-school opportunities for children and youth ages 6-18 to Experience, Develop, Grow and Excel by participating in cutting-edge art, fitness, life skills and adventure activities known as Art EDGE!, Fit EDGE!, Life EDGE!, and Adventure EDGE! The EDGE! Program takes weekly sign ups. For more information call 655-0445 or visit www.mwrarmyhawaii.com/the-edge. SKIES Unlimited: The SKIES (Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills) Program encompasses instructional programs and classes designed to complement and support the experiences of military children. The goal of the SKIES Unlimited Program is to ensure predictability and consistency in the availability, affordability and quality of instructional classes offered.
Family and MWR Volunteer greeting a returning Soldier 7 Redeployment is here!!!!
To take advantage of these benefits, your children must be registered with CYSS. Visit your nearest Central Registration Office on Schofield Barracks or AMR or visit www.mwrarmyhawaii.com/program-registration for additional information on registration requirements. Childcare Benefits 4
Blue Star Card Special Events & Activities
Blue Star Card Special Events & Activities
The Blue Star Card program offers many activities and events specifically for Families of deployed Soldiers. These activities are a great way to relieve some of the stress of deployment by having a little bit of fun. They also provide an atmosphere for the unique camaraderie and support that is only found in others who truly understand what it means to have a loved one deployed.
In addition to the great monthly events, the Blue Star Card program has implemented two new initiatives. The SUPERSTAR punch card is an added incentive to get involved in the activities and take your mind off of deployment.
Each month there are several activities for Blue Star Card holders and their Families to participate in. These events are provided at little or no cost to the Families. In addition to the regularly scheduled Blue Star Card events, card holders are also given special benefits at large Family and MWR events, such as reserved seating areas or discounted or free game and ride tickets. Also, by joining our email list and becoming our Facebook friend, Blue Star Card holders may receive special last minute perks such as free ticket giveaways or special meet and greet opportunities. The following is an overview of several of our regularly scheduled Blue Star Card events and activities. For a complete list of activities please visit our website at www.bluestarcardhawaii.com.
THE BIG
Big R: Countdown to Redeployment This is a monthly event for Blue Star Card holders to count down the months until their Soldiers return. Each month there is a different activity such as Bowling, a Casino Night, Luau, Zumba, etc. as well as free childcare and appetizers.
Walk off the Wait (WOW) This activity is held every other month to give Blue Star Card holders the opportunity to see how beautiful the island is by going on various hikes around Oahu.
The no-show policy will ensure we have as many card holders as possible at events.
Blue Star Card SUPERSTAR Punch Card • If you attend Blue Star Card events, you will receive a Blue Star Card SUPERSTAR punch card. After attending 10 Blue Star Card events and filling up your punch card, you will receive a FREE Blue Star Card t-shirt!
Blue Star Card Event No-Show Policy • The Blue Star Card program has implemented an event no-show policy. If you register for a Blue Star Card event and cannot attend the event, you must cancel your reservation by 12:00 pm (noon) the day before the event. If you fail to cancel your reservation and do not attend, you will be considered a no-show, which will result in you automatically being wait-listed for the next month’s events. It is our goal to include as many Blue Star Card holders as possible in our events, by implementing this policy; we hope to achieve this goal.
Create-a-Card This activity is held four times per year at the SGT Yano Library. It gives the families of deployed Soldiers the chance to make personalized greeting cards for their Soldiers.
Theatre Night This event is held four times per year at the Army Community Theatre, Richardson Theatre, Ft. Shafter. Blue Star Card holders PRESENTS : can enjoy transportation, pre-show appetizers, and a viewing of a performance of the current production at the theatre, all for free!
5 Blue Star Card Special Events & Activities
Blue Star Card Special Events & Activities 6
Blue Star Card Special Events & Activities
Blue Star Card Special Events & Activities
The Blue Star Card program offers many activities and events specifically for Families of deployed Soldiers. These activities are a great way to relieve some of the stress of deployment by having a little bit of fun. They also provide an atmosphere for the unique camaraderie and support that is only found in others who truly understand what it means to have a loved one deployed.
In addition to the great monthly events, the Blue Star Card program has implemented two new initiatives. The SUPERSTAR punch card is an added incentive to get involved in the activities and take your mind off of deployment.
Each month there are several activities for Blue Star Card holders and their Families to participate in. These events are provided at little or no cost to the Families. In addition to the regularly scheduled Blue Star Card events, card holders are also given special benefits at large Family and MWR events, such as reserved seating areas or discounted or free game and ride tickets. Also, by joining our email list and becoming our Facebook friend, Blue Star Card holders may receive special last minute perks such as free ticket giveaways or special meet and greet opportunities. The following is an overview of several of our regularly scheduled Blue Star Card events and activities. For a complete list of activities please visit our website at www.bluestarcardhawaii.com.
THE BIG
Big R: Countdown to Redeployment This is a monthly event for Blue Star Card holders to count down the months until their Soldiers return. Each month there is a different activity such as Bowling, a Casino Night, Luau, Zumba, etc. as well as free childcare and appetizers.
Walk off the Wait (WOW) This activity is held every other month to give Blue Star Card holders the opportunity to see how beautiful the island is by going on various hikes around Oahu.
The no-show policy will ensure we have as many card holders as possible at events.
Blue Star Card SUPERSTAR Punch Card • If you attend Blue Star Card events, you will receive a Blue Star Card SUPERSTAR punch card. After attending 10 Blue Star Card events and filling up your punch card, you will receive a FREE Blue Star Card t-shirt!
Blue Star Card Event No-Show Policy • The Blue Star Card program has implemented an event no-show policy. If you register for a Blue Star Card event and cannot attend the event, you must cancel your reservation by 12:00 pm (noon) the day before the event. If you fail to cancel your reservation and do not attend, you will be considered a no-show, which will result in you automatically being wait-listed for the next month’s events. It is our goal to include as many Blue Star Card holders as possible in our events, by implementing this policy; we hope to achieve this goal.
Create-a-Card This activity is held four times per year at the SGT Yano Library. It gives the families of deployed Soldiers the chance to make personalized greeting cards for their Soldiers.
Theatre Night This event is held four times per year at the Army Community Theatre, Richardson Theatre, Ft. Shafter. Blue Star Card holders PRESENTS : can enjoy transportation, pre-show appetizers, and a viewing of a performance of the current production at the theatre, all for free!
5 Blue Star Card Special Events & Activities
Blue Star Card Special Events & Activities 6
Redeployment is here!!!!
Childcare Benefits Free Child Youth and School Services (CYSS) childcare registration & re-registration 20% off CYSS full and part time care (this benefit begins 30 days before deployment and ends 90 days after the Soldier returns) 16 Free hours of hourly respite care (per child, per month) for children 6 weeks - 12 years through CYSS. (This benefit begins 30 days before deployment and ends 90 days after the Soldier returns) When the day finally arrives, Family and MWR will be there with you to celebrate the return of your Soldier. Family and MWR volunteer staff works hard to attend every redeployment ceremony and will provide each Family unit with one free purple orchid lei to greet your returning warrior with. Family and MWR also greets Soldiers returning home who do not have Family present to welcome them home with a job well done.
U.S. Army Hawaii Soldier happily reunited with his family
Eddie the Eagle @ Redeployment
Up to $100 for CYSS Team or Individual Sports per deployment, per child/youth Up to $300 for SKIES (Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills) classes per deployment, per child/youth $2 per hour, per child for any hourly care beyond the free respite care hours The EDGE! Program fees waived for the first week of every month
Health and Fitness Center Kids on Site Information: The Kids on Site care for the Health and Fitness center will remain free for valid Blue Star Card holders, Mon.-Fri., 8-11 a.m., at Kaala Community Activities Center, Bldg. 556. Registration is required. For more information please call 655-8313. The EDGE! Program: The EDGE! Program offers out-of-school opportunities for children and youth ages 6-18 to Experience, Develop, Grow and Excel by participating in cutting-edge art, fitness, life skills and adventure activities known as Art EDGE!, Fit EDGE!, Life EDGE!, and Adventure EDGE! The EDGE! Program takes weekly sign ups. For more information call 655-0445 or visit www.mwrarmyhawaii.com/the-edge. SKIES Unlimited: The SKIES (Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills) Program encompasses instructional programs and classes designed to complement and support the experiences of military children. The goal of the SKIES Unlimited Program is to ensure predictability and consistency in the availability, affordability and quality of instructional classes offered.
Family and MWR Volunteer greeting a returning Soldier 7 Redeployment is here!!!!
To take advantage of these benefits, your children must be registered with CYSS. Visit your nearest Central Registration Office on Schofield Barracks or AMR or visit www.mwrarmyhawaii.com/program-registration for additional information on registration requirements. Childcare Benefits 4
Facility Discounts
Blue Star Card Program is a CFC Recipient
Storytime @ the Family and MWR library
The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) is the annual fund-raising drive conducted by the Federal employees in their workplace. The mission of the CFC is to encourage philanthropy and to provide all Federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all. The Blue Star card program has been a proud CFC recipient since 2008. For more information on the Combined Federal Campaign, visit www.cfc-hawaii.org. Federal employees may designate contributions to the Blue Star Card Program by using code 90277. Mahalo for being a contributor to the Combined Federal Campaign. Your contributions count!
Family and MWR Staff @ The Pet Kennel 12 free days of pet care, with a limit of 2 kennel days per month, provided by Family and MWR Pet Kennel along with 10% off the regular boarding fee 10% off
At the Nehelani, Hale Ikena, Kolekole Bar & Grill, Mulligan’s and Leilehua Grill
10% off
Bowling fees at the Army Bowling Centers and $1 off Bowling Coupons available from www.bluestarcardhawaii.com
10% off
Craft classes at the Arts and Crafts Center
10% off
Any rental at Outdoor Recreation
10% off
On monthly Pool passes
10% off
Dinning and Entertainment at the Hale Koa Hotel
$10 off
On cottages at Pililaau Army Recreation Center (PARC)
$5 off
Golf Coupons at the Army Golf Courses available from www.bluestarcardhawaii.com
Big R: Paint and unWINEd
Child and Caregiver @ CYSS Child Development Center
Check out 4 DVD’s or CD’s instead of 3 at the Family and MWR Libraries Free Storytime taping on DVD at the Family and MWR libraries Webcam access and Video Tele Conference (VTC) capability at ACS Priority FRG classes for Blue Star Card holders from ACS
3 Facility Discounts
Walk off the Wait
Combined Federal Campaign 8
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Star Card Program: WHO is eligible for a Card? Spouses and designated Family Care Plan providers of Army combat deployed Active Duty/ Reserve/National Guard Soldiers or combat deployed DA Civilian employees stationed in Hawaii. Soldiers must be deployed for at least six months* and receive hazardous duty pay. *Spouses of Soldiers deployed for less than six months may also qualify. Please call 655-0002 to find out if you are eligible.
Application Instructions Applications are available online at www.bluestarcardhawaii.com. Please print and complete the Blue Star Card application and program waiver. Bring all of the required materials to either the Schofield Barracks ACS or the Fort Shafter ACS to receive your Blue Star Card. For eligibility requirements see page 9. 1. The following is a checklist of what to bring with you to ACS to receive your card: Completed Blue Star Card application Signed liability and photo release waiver
WHAT is a Blue Star Card? A discount and activity card intended to enhance the well being of Families during the stressful time of deployment.
WHERE can I use my Card? Blue Star Cards are accepted at many Family and MWR facilities and special events on Oahu Army installations. Please look for the complete listing on the Blue Star Card program flyer.
WHEN can I use my Card? Spouses and designated Family Care Plan Providers may get their cards as early as 30 days before the date on their Soldier’s deployment (TCS) orders. The Blue Star Card will be valid for the duration of the deployment, even when the Soldier is home on R+R! The card will expire as soon as your Soldier returns at the end of the deployment with exception to the childcare benefits. Those benefits will extend for 90 days after the Soldier returns.
HOW do I get a Blue Star Card? Bring a copy of your Soldier’s deployment (TCS) orders, along with your military dependent ID to either the Schofield Barracks or Fort Shafter Army Community Service (ACS) locations. If you are awaiting orders, you may still register one month prior to your Soldier’s deployment. Please visit ACS and ask for assistance from the Mobilization and Deployment team. If you lose your copy of your Soldier’s orders, the Mobilization and Deployment team will be able to verify that your Soldier is deployed and assist you with getting your card.
WHY should I get a Card? The Blue Star Card offers you many discounts at Family and MWR facilities, childcare benefits, and special events. It is a great way to stay active, meet new friends and other Spouses going through the same thing and most importantly have fun during this stressful time.
9 Frequently Asked Questions
Copy of your Soldier’s deployment (TCS) orders Your Military dependent ID card 2.
If you have children, they must be registered with Child, Youth and School Services (CYS Services) for you to receive the childcare benefits provided through the Blue Star Card program. The following is a checklist of what to bring with you to the CYS Services Central Registration Office, if your children are already registered with CYS Services. Blue Star Card Copy of your Soldier’s deployment (TCS) orders
3. If you are an Island Palm resident, you are eligible for additional deployment benefits. Contact your local community center for more information. Aliamanu Community (808) 275-3840
Porter Community (808) 275-3770
Canby Community (808) 275-3760
Rim/Red Hill Community (808) 275-3860
Ft. Shafter Community (808) 275-3820
Santa Fe Community (808) 275-3730
Hamilton Community (808) 275-3720
Tripler Community (808) 275-3870
Helemano Community (808) 275-3780
Wheeler Community (808) 275-3790
Kalakaua Community (808) 275-3750
Application Instructions 2
What is the Blue Star Card Program? The Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (Family and MWR) Blue Star Card program is a deployment discount and activity program for Spouses and Families of combat deployed Army Soldiers. It is not a credit card! This program was created in 2004 by Family and MWR Hawaii and is a joint effort of all Family and MWR facilities. The primary goal of the Blue Star Card program is to support these Families and thank them for the sacrifices they make while their service members are deployed. The term “Blue Star” originated during World War I. The Blue Star Service Banner or Service Flag was designed and patented in 1917 by World War I Army Capt. Robert L. Queissner of the 5th Ohio Infantry who had two sons serving on the front line. This symbol quickly caught on amongst the Families of the Soldiers fighting on the battlefields of Europe signifying they had a loved one in the service. These flags were displayed in the windows of many homes throughout the United States as a sign of hope and pride. In keeping with the history and tradition of this symbol, it was a perfect fit for our program.
What’s new with the Blue Star Card Program? Several changes have been made since the Blue Star Card program launched in 2004. We have been able to expand the discounts offered by the program, as well as offer many special events and activities for our Families of deployed Soldiers. Please review our benefits and look for the Army Family Covenant logo. Anywhere you see the logo, it will mark a new or increased benefit or discount, courtesy of Family and MWR and the Army Family Covenant.
Create-a-Card
More Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Star Card Program: Do each of my children receive their own Blue Star Cards? No, only the Spouse or Family Care Plan Provider will receive the card. However, children are covered under the card and may use the card as well.
My Soldier was previously deployed and will be deploying again, do I need to get a new Blue Star Card? Yes, you do need to bring a copy of the new deployment (TCS) orders to Army Community Service to have a new card issued. This will ensure that you receive all of the benefits you are currently entitled to, as the old card expired when your Soldier returned from the last deployment.
I just got my Blue Star Card, what do I need to do to activate my card/ when do I begin receiving benefits? Once you receive your card from Army Community Service, there is no activation required and you may begin using your discounts immediately. However, if you will be taking advantage of the childcare benefits, you need to take a copy of your Soldier’s deployment orders to the Child, Youth and School Services, Central Registration Office so you can begin receiving the childcare discounts.
I have my Blue Star Card, but I don’t hear about events until they have passed. How can I receive information on Blue Star Card upcoming events? When you register for a Blue Star Card, we automatically enter your email address into our email database. If you are not receiving the emails, first check your spam folder. If that’s not the answer, simply email or call us and let us know that you are not receiving the emails. We try to send out weekly emails on our upcoming events or if any last minute specials come up, we will send those too. We also post all of our event flyers on our website at www.bluestarcardhawaii.com. You can find us on Facebook as well. Just search Bluestarcard Hawaii and become our friend!
My Soldier has returned from deployment, when does my Blue Star Card expire? The Blue Star Card events will end as soon as your Soldier returns; however, you will still be able to utilize the 16 free hours of childcare for up to 90 days after your Soldier returns. If you have additional questions or would like more information about the Blue Star Card program, please call 655-0002 or email Amanda.P.Montgomery@us.army.mil.
2nd Brigade Half Way party
1 What is the Blue Star Card Program?
Frequently Asked Questions 10
An overview of the Blue Star Card Program bluestarcardhawaii.com mwrarmyhawaii.com REVISED: FEB 2011