February 2018 focus by Christian Johnson

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

2018

February Family Focus Mission: Service Member & Family Support enhances and empowers the lives of our customers with consistently exceptional service & support.

Service Member & Family Support Phone: 1-800-658-3930 THE FOCUS IS FOR SERVICE MEMBERS & FAMILIES, VETERANS, RETIREES & SURVIVORS

IN THIS ISSUE

Presidents who were Veterans For some Presidents of the United States, the title “Commander-inChief” was their first association with the military, but a majority of our country’s leaders came to office as Veterans. The first President of the United States, George Washington, set an important precedent by entering the Presidency as a civilian, rather than as a commanding general with military forces at his disposal. Washington voluntarily resigned his commission as commander of the Continental Army in December 1783 before re-entering public service four years later. He presided over the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and became the only President in American history to receive a vote from every elector. The value of military service remained an important quality that citizens sought in their President. Twenty-six of our 44 Presidents served in the military. Until World War II, a majority

of our Presidents had served in the Army; since then, most served in the Navy. The nation’s most recent Veteran President was George W. Bush, who presided over the most dramatic reforming the of the intelligence community and establishing new institutions like the Department of Homeland Security in response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The evolution of warfare has introduced many new tactical and technical dynamics to the U.S. military, but the core qualities of decision-making and inspiring leadership remain. In spite of, or perhaps because of, the hardships they have endured, OEF/OIF/OND Veterans will most likely be among the next generation of Veteran Presidents to serve in America’s highest military office: Commander-in-Chief.

Pages 3 & 8

Issue Date Page 6

Page 8

Page 9

Disclaimer: The announcements that appear on this page(s) or attached are intended to inform Soldiers, Airmen, veterans, and their families of special offers provided to Service Members, veterans and their families and are not intended to constitute an endorsement by the South Dakota Army and Air National Guard, the United States Army, the United States Air Force, or the Department of Defense. It is strictly intended to be used for informational purposes only.

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

2018

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

Free Tax Services from Military OneSource Service members and military families — here’s a benefit that helps you master your taxes. Free, easyto use MilTax software and support services can make quick work of tax time. No need to pay for outside tax assistance or risk missing specific military tax breaks. MilTax is made for military life, so you get more, including: Tax preparation and filing software From mid-January to mid-October, use our MilTax software to prepare and file your taxes online. This free software is tailored to military life — addressing scenarios including multiple moves, deployments and more. You can work anytime, anywhere, at your own pace. Plus, calculations have a 100 percent accuracy guarantee. Specialized phone support You can talk with a trained MilTax consultant free during tax season (January through April 18) seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. EST or EDT at 800-342-9647. After April 18, trained tax consultants are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. EDT. Call anytime to schedule an appointment.

In-person tax assistance The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program offers free in-person tax preparation and assistance at locations on and off base worldwide. Self-file using MilTax software at a kiosk where available. Work with a trained tax professional on site. Or, arrange to drop off your paperwork and come back to e-file when your return is ready. Helpful articles and online resources In our Taxes section, you’ll find articles with valuable information on how to file your tax return, such as “Tax Filing Made Simple” and “Filing Taxes When a Service Member is Deployed.” You can learn how new tax laws might affect you. And you can connect with Military OneSource financial counselors to make the most of your money. MilTax serves those who serve. As a military member, you and your family are eligible for these exclusive resources. Make quick work of tax time with all the MilTax tools and services you’ve earned. Check out more resources at http://www.militaryonesource.mil/

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

The SDNG Child & Youth Program Need Your Feedback!

We are requesting your feedback to help us improve the programs and services available through the Child and Youth Program. Please take a few minutes to complete the following assessment: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BQMJMYX

The responses we receive help us work to ensure programs, services, and resources support the unique needs of ARNG Families. Thank you!

As a member of the military, you may be eligible for a discount on Microsoft software you can use on a personal computer through the Home Use Program (HUP) 1. Go to http://hup.microsoft.com 2. Select the country to which you want your order to be shipped to and choose the language for viewing the order Web site. 3. Enter your military e-mail address and insert the following program code: ABAD560AD0 Note: This program code is assigned to the Army for Army's sole use in accessing this site. You may not share this number with anyone outside the Army. 4. Place your order online, and it will be shipped to the location you have chosen. Please note that a fulfillment fee will be charged to cover packaging, shipping, and handling costs. Click here for more information.

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

Child Support and Deployments

A deployment may have significant financial implications for Soldiers who are paying or receiving child support (including Soldiers that have shared custody with a cross credit for child support). Generally speaking, the Court will not modify a current child support order within three years of its filing unless there is a substantial and material change in circumstances. Depending on the surrounding circumstances, Courts often find a substantial and material change in circumstances exists if there is a significant change in income for either party. For the most part, child support is determined using statutory tables that consider the incomes of both parents and the number of children involved. To see how income fluctuations may impact child support in your situation, you can visit http://apps.sd.gov/ss17pc02cal/Calculator.aspx.

Please note, however, that this calculator does not necessarily take into account certain deviations that may be available to either party. If your income significantly increases or decreases due to a deployment, you should consult with an attorney as far in advance of a deployment as possible as well as immediately after a deployment so that scheduling with a child support referee and/or Court can promptly be done. Court calendars are very busy, and it can be quite difficult to schedule. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may qualify for reduced or free assistance through Access to Justice, an organization associated with the South Dakota State Bar call 1-855-287-3510 or visit http://www.statebarofsouthdakota.com/page/access-to-justice

for more information. Access to Justice is not sponsored nor endorsed by the SDARNG.

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

2018

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

Military and Family Life Counseling Program Webinar for Commanders and Senior Leaders You are invited to an interactive webinar that will provide guidance, policies, and strategies to help you better understand how the Military and Family Life Counseling Program and Military OneSource can increase unit readiness through private and confidential non-medical counseling services to service members and their families. Please click on the invite below to join: https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/index.cfm?i=381009&k=016943097B5E

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

Urgent Tricare Update! If you are enrolled in TRICARE West and using auto payment or electronic funds transfer, you must update your payment information with Healthnet Federal Services. Failure to update the information as the soonest opportunity will result in the beneficiary and families being disenrolled. Background: When a contract company changes (like Tricare did) from United to Health Net, anyone with an RCC or EFT set up with United MUST set up a NEW auto-payment process with Health Net. By law, the contractors cannot exchange credit card or banking information. So even if they already had auto-pay coming out from United, they MUST reestablish a new payment with Health Net. This does NOT affect retirees who have an Allotment (PRIME ONLY). Allotments (from their DFAS pay) did transfer and they do not need to re-establish. If in doubt, PLEASE have them call Healthnet Federal Services to verify.

If you have questions or concerns contact Healthnet Federal Services at 1-844-866-9378 or register for an online account with HNFS on their website at www.tricare-west.com

Take Command of Your Health: New Year, New TRICARE FEB 12, @ 12:00 PM CST https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3058211716505092099 This webinar will cover changes to the TRICARE program that took effect Jan. 1, 2018. Learn about changes to health plans, health plan costs, enrollment, stateside regions and contractors, accessing care and more. You can submit questions before the webinar by sending an email toMOSWebinars@militaryonesource.com

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

The Employment Support Program Is Here For You All current/previous National Guard service members and immediate family members have access to the National Guard Employment Support Program (ESP). This program was established in November 2016 to assist all current National Guard service members, National Guard prior service/veterans and their immediate family members in their search for better employment opportunities. In South Dakota, your ESP Program Support Specialist (PSS) is Mr. Scott MacDonald located in the Service Member & Family Support Directorate at Camp Rapid in Rapid City. As the PSS in South Dakota, he can help bridge the gap between the job seeker and the employer through providing employment assistance in the following areas: • • • • • •

Unemployed or under employed personnel looking to make their next career move Employment search technique advice for job seekers Resume/cover letter writing, interview preparation and translating military skills Referrals to other employment assistance agencies i.e., South Dakota Dept. of Labor, South Dakota State Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Administration, and other professional organizations Providing reference materials and information about job openings on the SDNG ESP web page http://sd.ng.mil/Careers/ESP/Pages/default.aspx Networking with other National Guard ESP Program Support Specialists across the country

As he did last year, Scott will be traveling out to each of the unit Soldier Readiness Process (SRP) and the 153rd ENG BN Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (YRRP) events. He will be available at these events to talk with any soldier or immediate family member who would like to discuss employment search strategies and civilian career planning. Please see the attached schedule for the date and location. Event SRP SRP SRP SRP

Date 9-11 Feb 18 2, 3 Mar 18 9-11 Mar 18 7, 8 Apr18

Location Sioux Falls Armory Camp Rapid, Rapid City Sioux Falls Armory Camp Rapid, Rapid City

Please contact Scott MacDonald if you have any questions on employment support issues at: scott.macdonald.ctr@mail.mil or (605) 737-6011.

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

South Dakota National Guard Scholarships Suspense: 15 March Corning/Mallow Memorial Scholarship BACKGROUND This scholarship endowment is made possible by donations from the South Dakota National Guard Officers and Enlisted Associations and is established in memory of Major General Duane L. "Duke" Corning's love and dedication for these associations and for his fidelity, dedication and unselfish service to his state, nation, and fellowman. The purpose of the memorial endowment is to encourage active/retired members of the South Dakota National Guard (Army and Air) and their dependents to pursue degrees in higher education at an accredited institution of their choice. The CW2 Darren R Mallow Memorial Scholarship is awarded by Col (Ret) Bob and Shirley Mallow of Black Hawk, SD in remembrance of their son Darren who was an outstanding guard member whose life was cut tragically short by a fatal civilian helicopter accident in the summer of 1999. Two $1000 scholarships will be awarded by the Enlisted/Officer Associations for the Major General Duane L. "Duke" Corning Scholarship and one $100.00 scholarship offered by the Mallow family.

The USAA Scholarship BACKGROUND This scholarship endowment is made possible by the USAA insurance program. The purpose of the USAA scholarship is to encourage active enlisted members of the South Dakota National Guard, (Army and Air), and their dependents to pursue degrees in higher education at an accredited institution of their choice. This objective is to be accomplished through annual award of the USAA Scholarship. A scholarship will be awarded by the Enlisted Association at the State Conference and may be in the amount of $500 or $1000 to be determined by USAA.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS To be considered for this award, an applicant must be: (Corning/Mallow): A current/retired member or a dependent of a current/retired member of the South Dakota National Guard Officer or Enlisted Associations. (USAA): A current member or a dependent of a member of the South Dakota National Guard Enlisted Association (BOTH): A graduating high school senior and/or an individual enrolled or having intent to enroll in a post-secondary institution (undergraduate study only) on a full-time basis.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES To apply for the SDNG Scholarships, applicants must submit the following, in its entirety, by the posted deadline above. r, counselor, dean or professor addressing the applicant's academic achievements. ander (if member of National Guard) addressing the applicant's moral and personal traits, character and leadership abilities. (Cannot be a parent) py of the applicant's latest SAT/ACT test scores (if applicable). Completed packages must be received by posted deadline or they will be returned to the applicant. Do not have the official transcript or the letters of recommendation sent directly because your entire package must be sent under one cover.

The 2018 application materials must be submitted by March 15th 2018 to:

Nathan Hedin, 132 Nebraska St., Rapid City, S.D. 57701

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

2018

The SDNG Scholarship 2018 Application A NON-RENEWABLE MERIT SCHOLARSHIP NAME:__________________________________________________________________________________ (Last)

(First)

(Middle)

HOME ADDRESS:________________________________________________________________________ (Street)

(City)

(State)

(Zip)

TELEPHONE: (____________) ___________________________________________ BIRTHDATE: _________________________________________________________ (Day, Month, Year) YOU MUST BE A CURRENT MEMBER OF OR BE A DEPENDENT OF A MEMBER OF THE SOUTH DAKOTA NATIONAL GUARD AND BE A MEMBER OF THE SOUTH DAKOTA NATIONAL GUARD ENLISTED ASSOCIATION FOR USAA AND A MEMBER OF ENLISTED OR OFFICERS ASSOCIATION FOR CORNING. PLEASE GIVE NAME, RANK, ADDRESS, TELEPHONE NUMBER, AND UNIT OF MEMBER. IF SAME AS ABOVE, STATE SO AND GIVE RANK AND UNIT. _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ SCHOOL OR COLLEGE YOU PLAN TO ATTEND: _________________________________________________________________________________________ MAJOR AREA OF STUDY: _________________________________________________________________________________________ LIST AWARDS, HONORS, AND OFFICES IN HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE OR OTHER TRADE SCHOOLS: _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ LIST EXTRA CURRICULAR & COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES & HONORS: __________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ PLEASE COMPLETE A BRIEF AUTOBIOGRAPHY (DO NOT EXCEED 300 WORDS) DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCES TO DATE AND INDICATING AT THE END YOUR HOPES AND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE. DATE: ________________________ SIGNATURE: _____________________________________________ (If you need more room for any questions, continue on a separate sheet of paper) Disclaimer: The announcements that appear on this page(s) or attached are intended to inform Soldiers, Airmen, veterans, and their families of special offers provided to Service Members, veterans and their families and are not intended to constitute an endorsement by the South Dakota Army and Air National Guard, the United States Army, the United States Air Force, or the Department of Defense. It is strictly intended to be used for informational purposes only.

FEBRUARY FAMILY FOCUS

Did you know? The Transition Assistance Advisor (TAA) Program serves Active and Reserve Component service members of ALL branches of the military AND Veterans who have dedicated themselves to serving our nation, often at great personal sacrifice. The programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s principal role is to provide direction to Reserve Component service members so that they can secure all benefits, entitlements, and services earned through their military service with the compassion of someone whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been there. You may not need assistance at this time, but you may have a friend or family member that could use some assistance.

Common services provided are: -

Requesting Military Service records Enrollment into the VA Healthcare Counseling on Education Benefits Supporting deploying and returning units Employment Tricare State specific benefits Navigating local, state and federal programs

I am a current service member in the SDARNG, an OEF-Afghanistan veteran, former full-time Soldier, education counselor and will put to use my skills and relationships to ensure your needs are met. Contact your TAA today at 605-737-6669 or christian.m.johnson.ctr@mail.mil

February Family Focus

Service Member and Family Support South Dakota National Guard 2823 W. Main St, Rapid City SD 57702

1-800-658-3930 We

We also recommend that you like and follow us on Facebook as we continuously update new and exciting information. Have suggestions of thing you would like to see in a future issue of the focus? Please contact us!