December 2011 The Department of Defense has released the 2012 Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates. BAH rates will increase an average of 2 percent when the new rates take effect on January 1, 2012. For members with dependents, average increases in BAH are approximately $39 per month. A typical E-6 with dependents, for example, will find his/her BAH about $35 per month … [Read more...]
Cost of Living Adjustment for 2012
Based on the increase in the Consumer Price Index, there will be a 3.6 percent Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan annuities effective Dec. 1, 2011. Retirees will see the change on their Dec. 30 payment, and annuitants will receive it Jan. 3, 2012. Retirees who received a Career Status Bonus (CSB) will receive a 2.6 percent … [Read more...]
Toys for Tots Program
December 19, 2011 The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of … [Read more...]
Panetta Sends Holiday Wishes To Troops, Families
Watch as Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta offers his holiday wishes to troops stationed throughout the world. "To all of our men and women in uniform, particularly those far from home, know that your service, your sacrifice keeps our country safe," he said. "Though our nation remains at war, we work towards a simple ideal - peace on Earth and goodwill to all." If you're … [Read more...]
Corps’ Uniform Changes Allow Bracelets and Backpacks to be Worn
12/16/2011 By Lance Cpl. Lauren A. Kurkimilis Marines are no longer restricted to wearing only issued bags in uniform. Civilian backpacks officially can now be worn in uniform, according to the results of Uniform Board 212 which were released in MARADMIN 695/11 Dec. 6, 2011. Backpacks may be black, brown, olive drab, tan or a combination of these colors, according to the … [Read more...]