Good morning, everybody. The United States of America is the greatest force for freedom and security that the world has ever known. And in no small measure, that’s because we’ve built the best-trained, best-led, best-equipped military in history — and as Commander-in-Chief, I’m going to keep it that way. Indeed, all of us on this stage — every single one of us — have a … [Read more...]
5 Major Changes Coming to the Military in 2012
Five of the important changes being made in the Military in 2012 include an update to the physical training (PT) test for the first time since it's inception, three new combat uniforms are to be made by end of year, a possible decrease in education benefits for troops, a reduction in brigade combat teams (BCT), and a 1.6% increase in basic pay via Executive Order 13594. 1. … [Read more...]
Defense Bill Affects Pay, Separation Bonuses, and More
By Karen Parrish American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Dec. 31, 2011 – President Barack Obama today signed the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act, which increases active-duty and reserve pay by 1.6 percent and governs Defense Department activities, from procurement to military personnel policy. Several provisions in this year’s act will potentially affect active-duty … [Read more...]
NY Guards Prepare for Duty as New Years Festivities Approach
December 29, 2011 By Capt. Alvin Phillips NEW YORK, N.Y. --The 280 members of the New York National Guard's Joint Task Force Empire Shield will be on duty New Years Eve assisting police in security missions. National Guard Soldiers and Airmen will be visible at Grand Central Station, Pennsylvania Station, the Port Authority Bus Terminal, John F. Kennedy International Airport … [Read more...]
Top 10 Military Family Moments of 2011
By Elaine Sanchez American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Dec. 28, 2011 – It’s that time of year when top 10 lists seem to proliferate across nearly every web and news page in the nation, proclaiming everything from the best movies and TV shows to the most memorable photos and celebrities of the year. Since I find it tough to encapsulate a year's worth of information into a … [Read more...]