143RD SUSTAINMENT COMMAND (EXPEDITIONARY)

AUSA Now: 2020 Annual Meeting & Exposition

• Due to COVID-19, AUSA made the decision to conduct this year’s meeting virtually 13-16 October, but the purpose of Army participation in the forum remains the same: To enhance Soldier and leader professional development and to inform and educate key audiences about the Army.

• The Army’s participation in the forum presents an opportunity to set the tone for the fiscal year, highlighting the Army’s continued investment in modernization efforts and other key themes in support of our people, readiness and reform.

• Register today.

FM 7-22, Holistic Health and Fitness

• FM 7-22 presents individualized training and testing that builds peak performance in all Soldiers. It is the foundation of unit readiness. 

• The goal of the Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) System is to build physical lethality and mental toughness to win quickly and return home healthy.

FY21 US Army Federal Officer Candidate School Program Announcement

• Army Reserve Soldiers must contact their Career Counselor at Army Reserve Careers Group (ARCG) for assistance with submitting an OCS application packet.

• The FY 21 HRC OCS In-Service Panels will convene on the following dates: May 10-14, 2021, and Sept. 27 - Oct. 1, 2021.  Complete applications and any applicable waiver requests for this panel must be received no later than 1700 Eastern Standard Time, 1 February 2021.  Applications received not in accordance with this MILPER Message or after this date will be returned without action.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 
Capt. Brian Hare | 642nd Regional Support Group

Sgt. Kody Taylor serves as military police (31B) with the 642nd Regional Support Group out of Decatur, Ga. 

Taylor serves a critical role in securing training areas for annual training. Taylor has spent the majority of 2020 working closely with his brigade to ensure every plan of action is stable and safe for Soldiers attending annual training. 

As for changes resulting from the pandemic, Taylor was quick to mention that his job had moved to telework like many others, which has resulted in more time to spend with family and loved ones. 

“The Army has always been adaptive and ever-changing with our society to remain on the cutting edge. During the COVID-19 era, that has meant learning new software and programs that bring us together as a team to accomplish our missions safely and efficiently,” stated Taylor. “So long are the days of Soldiers being technologically incapable.”

As a prior drill sergeant, Taylor likes to think that he is mentally resilient. “Everyone has their own story or upbringing, and I am no different. More importantly, everyone faces moments of weakness. These are normal and healthy. They encourage us to challenge ourselves and grow accordingly,” added Taylor. “Stoic philosophy has been invaluable to me during this time on remaining level-headed and a steadfast leader within my career, my community, and at home.”

“During these emotionally challenging and turbulent times, there are many trials that we face. Some might be facing unemployment, a feeling of hopelessness, or even difficulty dealing with the lack of physical, social interaction. Make an effort to contribute one positive action every day for someone else,” mentioned Taylor. “Let others know you care and that they are not alone; this could be anything from an appreciative text message or a simple smile at home. Letting others feel connected greatly reduces the likelihood of suicidal tendencies during this pandemic, which I feel is, unfortunately, taking a backseat to other issues. If you are feeling sad or depressed, please reach out! Somebody is always available and willing to hear your story.”

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

Sept. 21 - New directive to prepare Army installations against extreme weather, climate change. Requires planners and managers to establish resilience measures to safeguard valuable assets and minimize readiness impacts. 

Sept. 22 - New Army website offers latest resources to promote resilience, readiness. The Army Resilience Directorate officially launched its new website Sept. 18 at ArmyResilience.army.mil. The robust website is the Directorate’s hub for Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention, Ready and Resilient, Army Suicide Prevention, and the Army Substance Abuse Program, making it an all- inclusive site for information and resources on these programs.

Sept. 23 - AR/60 Episode 25. Watch the new AR/60 episode. Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault do not belong in the squads of our Army Reserve. For more information on the Army Sexual Harassment/Assault Response Program (SHARP) go to: https://www.preventsexualassault.army.mil

Sept. 24 - Mobilization opportunities with the 143d ESC. There are many opportunities with the 143d ESC, from CONUS mobilizations to overseas deployments. If you are interested, send an email with your current unit, rank, MOS, duty title, and start date availability.

Sept. 25 - Army Reserve Political Activities. All Soldiers MUST follow all orders and directives about specific activities that may be issued by appropriate civil and military authorities or found in the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Learn more of what you can’t, must, and can do.

Army Suicide Prevention Program

• As an integral component of the Army's Ready and Resilient Campaign, the Army’s Suicide Prevention Program (ASPP) improves the readiness of the Army through the development and enhancement of ASPP policies, training, data collection and analysis, and strategic communications designed to prevent suicide; thereby preserving mission effectiveness through individual readiness and resilience for Soldiers, Army Civilians and Family members.

• ASPP educates and trains active duty, Reserve and National Guard Soldiers, Army Civilians and Family members on suicide prevention and postvention actions to minimize the risk for suicide.

Army Reserve Political Activities

• All Soldiers MUST follow all orders and directives about specific activities that may be issued by appropriate civil and military authorities or found in the Uniform Code of Military Justice. 

• Learn more of what you can’t, must, and can do.

STARRS - Longitudinal Study

• The Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers - Longitudinal Study (STARRS-LS) continues the Army’s research efforts toward suicide prevention with partner agencies. Beginning with Army STARRS (2009-2015) and extending into the longitudinal effort of STARRS-LS (2015-2020), STARRS-LS (2020-2025) will utilize the STARRS platform, systems and data to improve understanding of predictive factors for suicide and psychological health of Soldiers, including those who have separated from the service.

• During the next phase of STARRS-LS, the research team, including the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Harvard Medical School, University of Michigan, and the University of California, San Diego, will continue their analysis efforts to better understand suicide, suicide-related behavior, and other mental and behavioral health issues.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Sgt. Bryan Trinidad is an Army Reserve Soldier assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla. In this interview, Trinidad shares why he joined and continues to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Mobilization opportunities with the 143d ESC

• There are many opportunities with the 143d ESC, from CONUS mobilizations to overseas deployments.

• If you are interested, send an email with your current unit, rank, MOS, duty title, and start date availability.

We want to share your Active Component to Reserve Component story

• The 143d ESC Public Affairs Office is seeking 143d ESC Soldiers who transitioned from the Active Component to the Reserve Component within the past three years.

• If you are interested in sharing your story, send an email with your current unit, rank, MOS, duty title, the year you left the Active Component, and the year you joined the Army Reserve. 

GRFD Scholarship Minuteman Campaign Opportunities

• If you are interested in receiving an Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship and commissioning into the Army Reserve, the GRFD Scholarship Minuteman Campaign provides you an excellent opportunity.

• The GRFD Scholarship Minuteman Campaign covers 4 years of full tuition and fees or $10,000 for room and board at colleges and universities served by an Army ROTC program. 

• For more information, click here.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Spc. Laryn King of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how her work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

AR/60 Episode 25

• Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault do not belong in the squads of our Army Reserve.

• For more information on the Army Sexual Harassment/Assault Response Program (SHARP) go to: https://www.preventsexualassault.army.mil/ 

Approachable leaders vital to suicide prevention effort

• Open, approachable leadership, and making self-care a priority are two steps in preventing suicide in the military, but a special point of emphasis in the Suicide Prevention Month campaign is staying connected the friends and family members who care about you.

• “Having the first sergeant rank should not intimidate anybody from coming to you, because that is your job, to help Soldiers,” Master Sgt. Nelson said. 

National Hurricane Center

• Post-Tropical Cyclone Teddy: Teddy makes landfall near Ecum Secum Nova Scotia... still forecast to produce destructive waves, strong winds, and heavy rainfall today across portions of Atlantic Canada.

• Tropical Storm Lowell: Lowell moving west-northwestward with no change in strength

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Spc. David Roane III serves as a behavioral health specialist (68X) with the 518th Special Troops Battalion in Knightdale, N.C. 

Roan is a native of Disputanta, Va., pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marketing at George Mason University. 

Health and fitness is a top priority for Roan. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, he continues with his active lifestyle by kayaking, hiking and rock climbing.  

Roan’s recent accomplishment is competing in the U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior competition with approximately 50 Soldiers from across the nation Sept. 4-10, 2020, representing the 518th Sustainment Brigade, 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), and 377th Theater Sustainment Command.

New Army website offers latest resources to promote resilience, readiness

• The Army Resilience Directorate officially launched its new website Sept. 18 at ArmyResilience.army.mil.

• The robust website is the Directorate’s hub for Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention, Ready and Resilient, Army Suicide Prevention, and the Army Substance Abuse Program, making it an all- inclusive site for information and resources on these programs.

You Can VOTE from Anywhere!

• Learn how to vote from anywhere as a service member, military spouse, or U.S. member overseas. 

• What the DOD is doing to ensure your vote is secure:

  • For 2020 Election, Threat is Bigger than Russia

  • Cybersecurity for 2020 Elections a Top DOD Priority, General Says

National Hurricane Center

• Tropical Storm Paulette: Paulette moving toward the east-northeast southeast of the Azores

• Tropical Storm Beta: Beta expected to stall inland over Texas today. Heavy rains continue over portions of the middle and upper Texas coast.

• Hurricane Teddy: Teddy forecast to bring heavy rain, strong winds and destructive waves to Nova Scotia.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Staff Sgt. Kenya Mickens, assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shares why she joined and continues to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve.

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

New directive to prepare Army installations against extreme weather, climate change

• Requires planners and managers to establish resilience measures to safeguard valuable assets and minimize readiness impacts. 

• This new directive will provide Army installations with uniform instruction to help them build resilience to natural hazards.

• Hazardous weather includes flooding, drought, desertification, rising sea levels, extreme heat, and thawing permafrost.

Army Reserve Welcomes Incoming Soldiers Amid COVID-19 Restrictions

• Hundreds of unaccompanied soldiers spend roughly two weeks at Task Force Willkommen upon their arrival to Germany. Most are junior enlisted troops heading to their first assignment and have never been overseas before.

• For two weeks, while transient soldiers are under restricted movement, large open warehouses are their home. They take online training, stay in shape with physical fitness sessions and hang out at the USO. They must march in groups to the dining facility — a large tent that is reminiscent of field conditions — and to the local convenience store. Other than that, they socialize with their masks on, play video games or cards or use free WiFi to call home.

National Hurricane Center

• Tropical Storm Beta: Getting closer to the coast of central Texas. Rain bands with tropical-storm-force wind gusts spreading onshore the central and upper Texas coastal areas. There is the danger of life-threatening storm surge near times of high tide through Tuesday along portions of the Texas and Louisiana coasts within the storm surge warning areas. 

• Hurricane Teddy: Tropical storm warning issued for Nova Scotia while Teddy accelerates North-Northeastward. Life-threatening rip currents expected along western Atlantic beaches for a few more days.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Tropical storms and hurricanes have affected every coastal state along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. 

As units within the 143d ESC are more susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes, the safety of our Soldiers, Civilians, and Families continues to be our priority throughout this hurricane season.

So far, four named storms formed during August, with two of them becoming hurricanes, including Hurricane Laura. Just this week, Hurricane Sally took a similar path and impacted states attempting to recover from Hurricane Laura's impacts.

As U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers, our dedication to duty and selfless service are not only exemplified when we're deployed in protecting the security of our nation. Often, ensuring the safety and well-being of our fellow Americans throughout our communities is also our duty. 

Spc. Ricardo Mitchell from the 414th Transportation Company is a true example of what we as Army Reserve Soldiers do naturally, protect. 

On Sept. 17, 2020, in Orangeburg, S.C., WIS TV captured Spc. Ricardo Mitchell carrying a member of his community from their flooding home through a flooded driveway to safe grounds. Not shown in the video below were the two grandchildren he first assisted to safety.

"I'm in the Army Reserve. It's our responsibility to keep our communities safe," stated Mitchell. 

(Video by Mr. Ryan Burgee of WIS TV)

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

Sept. 14 - STAND-TO: Project Convergence. Project Convergence helps ensure that the Army has the right people, with the right systems, appropriately enabled, in the right places, to support the Joint fight. Project Convergence will generate transformational change to ensure the Army stays ahead of emerging challenges to national security.

Sept. 15 - Command promotes leader development with new virtual program. TRADOC has developed a new virtual program to help educate the workforce on the Army Profession, develop people of character, drive cultural change and promote inclusion. The format of the Leader Professional Development Program will enable conversational dialogue between leaders, Soldiers and Civilians across the Army.

Sept. 16 - Chief of staff asks force to fight against harmful behaviors. Army Chief of Staff Gen. James C. McConville asked all Army personnel Wednesday to unite as a cohesive team and step in to prevent suicide, racism and sexual harassment/assault among the ranks.

Sept. 17 - Army Reserve Political Activities. With the election coming up, it's important to know what you can and can't do as an Army Reserve Soldier or Civilian. Check out the infographic to learn more.

Sept. 18 - Flu Vaccine Essential During COVID-19 Pandemic. Flu season is coming. In the United States, flu season usually starts in the fall and lasts through the winter. While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most flu activity peaks between December and February, but can last as late as May.

AER provides assistance to help with COVID-19, wildfires, hurricanes and more

• The Army Emergency Relief fund provides financial assistance during times of crisis, or whenever Soldiers and their families face financial challenges. Since March 2020, it has also provided special programs to support the coronavirus pandemic currently impacting the United States.

• Presently, AER leaders are holding virtual tours at Army installations in the U.S. to discuss with leadership and Soldiers the various ways AER may meet their needs today. They are also discussing whether anything needs to be adjusted and giving updates about new initiatives within AER, particularly during natural disasters like coronavirus, wildfires and hurricanes.

Flu Vaccine Essential During COVID-19 Pandemic

• Flu season is coming. In the United States, flu season usually starts in the fall and lasts through the winter. 

• While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most flu activity peaks between December and February, but can last as late as May.

Staying Alive: We Prepare. You Should, Too.

• Being prepared when a disaster strikes could be the difference between life and death. Not just a fighting force, the U.S. military applies warfighting skills and assets to help protect the homeland. 

• Service members train and prepare year-round so when hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes and even volcanoes erupt, troops are ready to help those in harm’s way.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Spc. Wilfredo Robles of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how his work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Command promotes leader development with new virtual program

• TRADOC has developed a new virtual program to help educate the workforce on the Army Profession, develop people of character, drive cultural change and promote inclusion. The format of the Leader Professional Development Program will enable conversational dialogue between leaders, Soldiers and Civilians across the Army.

• The first introductory webinar will air 11-11:30 a.m. Sept. 25 on the TRADOC Facebook Page, and will be co-hosted by TRADOC’s command team of Gen. Paul E. Funk II and Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel T. Hendrex. In this broadcast, they will be discussing the purpose and importance behind this outreach effort.

Army Reserve Political Activities

• Share your voice. Know your limits.

• With the election coming up, it's important to know what you can and can't do as an Army Reserve Soldier or Civilian.

• Check out the infographic to learn more.

Army nominates first Hispanic-American woman to be service’s top lawyer

• As the Army's principal deputy general counsel, Michele Pearce credits her career success to the many lessons she learned growing up as a military dependent.

• Pearce was nominated to serve as the next Army general counsel. If confirmed by the Senate, she will be the first Hispanic-American woman to serve in the position.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Spc. Jorge Figueroa is an Army Reserve Soldier assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla. In this interview, Figueroa shared why he joined and continues to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve.

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

New directive to prepare Army installations against extreme weather, climate change

• From the California wildfires to the hurricanes that pounded the southeast coast last fall, climate change has had an impact on operations and installations so great that the Army has identified the phenomenon as a national security threat.

• The Army Climate Resistance Handbook, published last month, will also provide installation managers with a quick reference on climate and extreme weather resilience measures.

Chief of staff asks force to fight against harmful behaviors

• Army Chief of Staff Gen. James C. McConville asked all Army personnel Wednesday to unite as a cohesive team and step in to prevent suicide, racism and sexual harassment/assault among the ranks.

• In addition to stopping malicious acts, Soldiers should also step in to support anyone harboring thoughts of suicide, he said.

National Hurricane Center

• Tropical Storm Sally: Heavy rains from Sally spreading Northward into Eastern Alabama and western Georgia... catastrophic and life-threatening flooding continues over portions of the Florida panhandle and southern Alabama.

• Hurricane Teddy: Teddy expected to strengthen for the next couple of days.

• Tropical Storm Vicky: Vicky is heading west over the open eastern tropical Atlantic.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Capt. Brian Hyer of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., explained his role as a judge advocate within the 143d ESC Staff Judge Advocate office and walks through each piece of equipment of the operational law kit. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Command promotes leader development with new virtual program

• TRADOC has developed a new virtual program to help educate the workforce on the Army Profession, develop people of character, drive cultural change and promote inclusion. The format of the Leader Professional Development Program will enable conversational dialogue between leaders, Soldiers and Civilians across the Army.

• The first introductory webinar will air 11-11:30 a.m. Sept. 25 on the TRADOC Facebook Page, and will be co-hosted by TRADOC’s command team of Gen. Paul E. Funk II and Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel T. Hendrex. In this broadcast, they will be discussing the purpose and importance behind this outreach effort.

Hispanic Americans: Shaping the Bright Future of America

• The U.S. Army values the contributions of American Soldiers with ancestry from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America. Hispanic Americans have not hesitated to defend and show their allegiance to this nation in many ways, but especially through military service. The Army and the U.S. draw strength from the diversity that makes up America's melting pot.

• Hispanic Heritage Articles: 

  • Cultural roots laid foundation for sergeant major’s career

  • Soldier honors his sister's memory on 9/11

  • Soldier becomes US citizen before deployment

National Hurricane Center

• Tropical Storm Sally: Historic and catastrophic flooding, including widespread moderate to major river flooding, is unfolding along and just inland from west of Tallahassee, FL. 

• For updates of developing storms, click here.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Sgt. Maj. Marcus Alfred, assigned to the 641st Regional Support Group in Saint Petersburg, Fla., shares why he joined and continues to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

VA joins Army in major DOD research effort to prevent suicides

• An ongoing Defense Department-directed epidemiological study recently got a helping hand that could help generate actionable recommendations to reduce military suicides.

• "We're excited to partner with the Department of Defense and the National Institute on Mental Health on this major research effort aimed at preventing suicides," said Richard A. Stone, M.D., Veterans Health Administration executive in charge. 

STAND-TO: Project Convergence

• Project Convergence helps ensure that the Army has the right people, with the right systems, appropriately enabled, in the right places, to support the Joint fight. 

• Project Convergence will generate transformational change to ensure the Army stays ahead of emerging challenges to national security.

National Hurricane Center

• Tropical Storm Sally: Likely to produce life-threatening storm surge, hurricane-force winds, and flash flooding along portions of the Northern Gulf Coast starting late today.

• Hurricane Paulette: Eye of Paulette moving away from the island of Bermuda. Strong damaging winds from the southwest and torrential rains still affecting Bermuda.

• Tropical Storm Teddy: Depression strengthens into Tropical Storm Teddy... expected to become a powerful hurricane later this week.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Maj. Teresa Withrow, assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared why she joined and continues to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Remembering September 11, 2001

• The Defense Department honors the memories of those who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pa.

• On Sept. 11, 2001, American Airlines Flight 77 was hijacked and crashed into the Pentagon, killing all 64 people on the plane and 125 people in the Pentagon. The Pentagon Memorial is the first national memorial dedicated to honoring the 184 people whose lives were lost at the Pentagon that day, their families, and all those who sacrifice so that we may live in freedom.

Army leaders share stories of the 9/11 attack at the Pentagon

• It’s been 19 years since Sept. 11, 2001, when four hijacked passenger jets were turned into makeshift missiles above American soil. But the tragic day is still fresh in the minds of some of the Army’s top leaders who survived the attack at the Pentagon.

• Positioned across the Potomac River from the nation’s capital, the Pentagon is the nerve center for all things national defense. It’s also one of the world’s largest office buildings, made up of roughly 23,000 military and civilian employees, including the secretary of defense and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Making history: Accelerated Warrant Officer Candidate School graduates highest number in U.S. Army Reserve history

• The U.S. Army Reserve, in conjunction with the active Army and National Guard, is leading a historic initiative to eliminate its backlog of warrant officer candidates through an accelerated Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS) course.

• “We are making history,” said Chief Warrant Officer 5 Hal Griffin III, command chief warrant officer, U.S. Army Reserve Command.

The survivor: Soldier overcomes battle with suicide

• According to the most recent Defense Department study, Suicides claimed the lives of 305 Soldiers or 30.9 suicides per 100,000 in 2018, up from 29.7 in 2017.

• Soldiers with suicidal thoughts can turn to behavioral treatment facilities at any Army post. They can also contact their first sergeant, supervisor or unit chaplain, and even get help anonymously by calling the Military Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.

Order Gives Employees Social Security Withholding Tax Deferral, Not Forgiveness

• Internal Revenue Service officials said the Presidential Memorandum defers the employee portion of Social Security taxes. The Social Security tax is set for employees by law at 6.2 percent.

• For service members, that would be 6.2 percent of basic pay. An E-5 with eight years of service has a monthly basic pay rate of $3,306.30. The monthly Social Security tax equals $204.99. Through the end of the year, this adds up to $819.96.

• Beginning Jan. 1, 2021, the deferred Social Security taxes will be collected through April 30, 2021. So, that E-5 with eight years of service who received a total of $819.96 from the tax deferral now has to pay it back early in 2021. 

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers encourage resiliency efforts during COVID-19 response

•  In the large command headquarters building located at Naval Air Station – Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, it appears to be business as usual for the Soldiers of the 377th Theater Sustainment Command as they continue their ongoing mission in support of the Army North nationwide fight against COVID-19.

• Soldiers are seen on conference calls in offices, traversing the hallways, or working in the sweltering Louisiana heat on command vehicles staged in the motorpool beneath tendrils of Spanish moss.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Capt. Dereck Bisgard of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how his work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Service Members, Civilians Bound By DOD Rules During Election Campaigns

• "The department encourages and actively supports its personnel in their civic obligation to vote, but makes clear members of the armed forces on active duty should not engage in partisan political activities," - DOD spokesman Jonathan Rath Hoffman

• For particulars and more in-depth information concerning political activities, check out DOD Directive 1344.10 for service members and the U.S. Office of Special Counsel website for civilian employees.

What the payroll tax deferral means for Soldiers

• In order to provide relief during the COVID-19 pandemic, a presidential memorandum was issued last month, followed by guidance from the Internal Revenue Service a few weeks later, to temporarily defer Social Security taxes.

• How to prepare: Soldiers should check their LES under the deductions section for FICA-Social security; Identify amount deferred for the pay period and adjust for tax liabilities during January through April 2021.

You don’t stand alone: suicide prevention takes teamwork, intervention

• September is Suicide Prevention Month. The month allows the Army to highlight efforts to strengthen resilience, enhance personal readiness, and increase awareness of available resources. The Army continues to improve programs and policies to assist commanders in strengthening Soldiers and enhancing personal resilience.

• Military Crisis Linel: 1-800-273-TALK (8255), Press 1

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Staff Sgt. William Alberson is an Army Reserve Soldier assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla. In this interview, Alberson shares why he joined and continues to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve.

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Army Reserve brings Best Warrior Competition to Wisconsin

• The U.S. Army Reserve’s Best Warrior Competition is an intense and brutal challenge for only the most skilled Soldiers. Competitors put their warrior skills to the test across more than a dozen demanding events, including weapons qualification, a 12-mile ruck march, and ambush scenarios

• “I feel like the Army Reserve had our back and we essentially have each other's back,” said Master Sgt. Ryan Cameron, lead organizer and cadre noncommissioned officer-in-charge of this year’s competition. “We said we're going to do this boots on ground competition. And everybody said yes, let's do it. And they got behind us.”

The importance of connectedness

• Strong connectedness—the level of closeness we feel to others—not only enhances our quality of life, it can also save lives.

• During September—Suicide Prevention Month—the Department of Defense is focusing on Connectedness, using the slogan Connect To Protect to highlight how social connections and a sense of belonging can be a protective factor against suicide.

For 2020 Election, Threat is Bigger than Russia

• As November approaches and a new general election is on the minds of most Americans, preserving the security of that election is on the minds of cyber experts at U.S. Cyber Command and the National Security Agency. Officials there say that unlike in 2016, where Russia was the biggest threat to election security, there are now new threats that pose a risk.

• What are the threats to U.S. elections? Influence operations are a primary threat. That involves the creation of information online by adversarial nations, often through proxy groups, to create discord and influence opinion in the U.S.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Berenice Ugalde of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how her work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Social Security Payroll Tax Deferral

• In order to provide relief during the COVID-19 pandemic, a Presidential Memorandum was issued on August 8, 2020 and guidance followed by Internal Revenue Service on August 28, 2020, to temporarily defer Social Security (Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) tax withholdings. This change is effective through the end of the 2020 calendar year.

• Military Member FAQ

• Civilian Employee FAQ

You can vote from anywhere

• It only takes a few simple steps to make sure your vote is counted. The Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) enables you to register to vote and request your absentee ballot.

• Learn how your voting residence is determined

SMA to Soldiers: Discussions on discrimination should not be ‘taboo’

• Staff Sgt. Coralina Lucas and three other staff sergeants from across the Army joined Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael A. Grinston to share their backgrounds and discuss race and discrimination.

• Grinston struggled with race identity while growing up in Alabama and being raised by a single mother. Born to a Black father and a white mom, Grinston said he sometimes felt like an outsider because he looked different than other Soldiers. Grinston released a video on social media chronicling his story in June.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Pvt. Destiny Penn of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how her work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

Aug. 31 - Election season do's and don'ts for DOD personnel. Active-duty military and civilian employees are encouraged to take part in their civic duty by voting. In fact, DOD voting assistance is provided through the Federal Voting Assistance Program. For in-depth do's and don'ts concerning political activities, check out DOD Directive 1344.10.

Sept. 1 - Temporary changes to retention, promotion, as COVID-19 persists. Army leaders announced new reenlistment and promotion policies that will last until Sept. 30, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to change how the military operates.

Sept. 2 - Flu Immunizations. In order to be prepared for rapid and widespread influenza vaccinations to be provided to the field, USARC has directed LHI to proactively mass create Walgreens Walk In vouchers beginning 1-Sep-2020 for non-exempt TPU Soldiers. Service members (SM) must present a voucher from www.LHI.Care to Walgreens at time of receiving the flu vaccine and upload receipt on www.LHI.Care.

Sept. 3 - Army revamps leave and pass regulation. The June 3 revision of Army Regulation 600-8-10, which covers leaves and passes, is part of the largest update to Army military leave policy in more than a decade, said Larry Lock, chief of Compensation and Entitlements for the Army’s G-1 office.

Sept. 4 - Command Sgt. Maj. issues Double Eagle Fitness Challenge. The Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Reserve recently issued a new fitness challenge to all Soldiers within the command, due to begin Sept. 7, 2020.

Army North Task Forces on COVID-19 Front Lines

• Service members from across the country who are part of U.S. Army North have converged on San Antonio as part of the urban augmentation medical task forces activated to support hospitals during the COVID-19 crisis.

• The first UAMTF to arrive in San Antonio, designated UAMTF-627, began treating patients at five local hospitals July 9.

Command Sgt. Maj. issues Double Eagle Fitness Challenge

• The Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Reserve recently issued a new fitness challenge to all Soldiers within the command, due to begin Sept. 7, 2020.

• The Double Eagle Fitness (DEFIT) Challenge is a 12-week physical fitness challenge designed to promote improved physical fitness and enhanced Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) performance across the United States Army Reserve (USAR).

• Sign up!

United States COVID-19 Cases and Deaths by State

• The CDC COVID-19 Data Tracker has a new look and location to make the data easier to find and use. All previous data remains and will be updated on the same schedule. Please update bookmarks and links.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Spc. Cory Lowery of the 518th Sustainment Brigade in Knightdale, N.C., shared how his work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Army revamps leave and pass regulation

• The June 3 revision of Army Regulation 600-8-10, which covers leaves and passes, is part of the largest update to Army military leave policy in more than a decade, said Larry Lock, chief of Compensation and Entitlements for the Army’s G-1 office.

• “The new regulation encompasses recent changes in leave and passes, rearranges the sections to make it more user friendly, clarifies policy, and covers the new leave forms,” he said. “It also aligns the terminology more closely with” Defense Department Instruction 1327.06, or Leave and Liberty Policy and Procedures.

Lab Shifts Gears to Fight COVID-19

• The Army laboratory enterprise stands with the rest of our healthcare force to continue the fight against COVID-19 and to support our warfighters with any medical challenge the future may hold,” Army Capt. Bradley Kearney

• To help fight COVID-19, Gary Crispell, a microbiologist, and Kearney launched COVID-19 testing in Japan while Milagros Solá, a microbiologist, and Army Spc. Darius Torres, a medical laboratory technician, supplemented the clinical lab staff at MAMC. 

We can't lose anyone to suicide

• While America’s military men and women are the most resilient fighting force on Earth, we are not immune to physical, mental, and spiritual challenges. Through leadership, education and respect for one another, we can reduce or eliminate the stigma associated with seeking help for suicidal thoughts or feelings. 

• To get help or for more info, visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org or call 1-800-273-8255.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Pfc. Catherine Goodyear of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how her work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Connect to Protect

• Each year, September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a time to highlight important messages about suicide risk and available treatments and resources. 

• The Department of Defense theme for 2020 Suicide Prevention Month is “Connect to Protect” which highlights the important role that connections to family, friends, the community, and resources can play in preventing suicide. 

• The goal is to encourage people to learn more about suicide warning signs, risk factors and supportive responses so they can be there for a family member, friend, or peer who may be at risk.

Flu Immunizations

• In order to be prepared for rapid and widespread influenza vaccinations to be provided to the field, USARC has directed LHI to proactively mass create Walgreens Walk In vouchers beginning 1-Sep-2020 for non-exempt TPU Soldiers.

• Service members (SM) must present a voucher from www.LHI.Care to Walgreens at time of receiving the flu vaccine and upload receipt on www.LHI.Care.

• If a voucher is not needed, it will cancel at no charge at the end of flu season.

• If you don’t see a Walk In voucher created in www.LHI.Care, flu can be ordered for either option through: www.LHI.Care Request Services or LHI Self Service Request Process: (877) 437-6313

SMA Sends: Supporting Our Families is Putting People First

• People First. That includes Families. After nearly two decades of sustained combat operations, our generation of leaders has learned firsthand that Families are directly tied to readiness. Training and deploying in the COVID-19 operational environment has required sacrifice from everyone who makes the Army possible, to include our Family members. 

• Soldiers having issues with their Family Care Plans need to communicate with their chain of command. Leaders need to listen, be flexible and do what’s best for the Army, their Soldiers and their Families. That’s what our Nation expects and what our People deserve. In these challenging times, we must know our People better than ever, be flexible to balance their needs with the needs of the Army, and continue to put People First in everything we do.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT  
Cadet Dominique Pringle | 1015th Support Maintenance Company

Cadet David Carr currently serves as a tactical power generation specialist (91D) for the 1015th Support Maintenance Company in Forest Park, Ga. 

A native of Miami, Carr is an Army Reserve Soldier with a drive for greatness and is currently in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Program at Georgia State University. 

Before pursuing the path of becoming an officer, he would spend his time at drill repairing generators and associated power equipment in the unit’s inventory. Since starting his new journey of becoming an officer, he now allocates his time towards advancing his career and becoming a better leader through the ROTC program. 

Carr is also working towards his bachelors in computer information systems with a concentration in computer science. He plans to go into the field of technology upon graduation. Like many others however, life has hit a stand still for the ambitious cadet due to the COVID-19 pandemic but he doesn’t let this dim his shine. 

As a result of COVID-19, Carr is deciding to focus on staying safe and maintaining relationships with those close to him during the pandemic while continuing his studies and preparing for ROTC.

When he isn’t working hard on his goals and ambitions, Carr spends his free time maintaining his physical fitness for the activities associated with ROTC and the extended preparation before attending Advanced Camp. He has adjusted well to having Virtual Battle Assemblies as opposed to in-person battle assemblies and notes that “[he] thinks it’s a positive; it shows that the command cares about their Soldiers.” 

He continues to take everything day by day and is ready to approach things head on.

U.S. Army Reserve: Meet your new Command Sergeant Major

• The Leaders Corner Episode 5: Meet the new Command Sergeant Major of the Army Reserve, Andrew Lombardo.

• In this Podcast find out who your CSM is and what drives him. Also learn his vision for Army Reserve leaders, and what he hopes to accomplish during his tenure. We also tackle how the Army Reserve is operating during COVID-19 and other important issues like the Sexual Harassment/Assault Prevention Program (SHARP).

NCO evaluation changes create flexibility, boost readiness

• The Army has begun to shift its rank advancement structure for noncommissioned officers by moving from a two-year promotion projection process to a month-to-month format, as well as allowing top performing Soldiers to be eligible for promotion six months earlier.

• The overhaul to evaluating NCOs is intended to boost Army readiness and improve the quality of its NCO corps, said Sgt. Maj. Mark Clark, Army G-1 directorate of military personnel management sergeant major. Soldiers will soon feel the impact of those changes as the Army transitions to a greater focus on merit to promote its enlisted leaders rather than on time in service.

Temporary changes to retention, promotion, as COVID-19 persists

• Army leaders announced new reenlistment and promotion policies that will last until Sept. 30, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to change how the military operates.

• “In response to COVID-19, we've made some important changes to enlisted promotion and retention policies to take care of our people and keep our Army ready,” Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Grinston said. “We are taking unprecedented and immediate action to keep the right people in the right rank when we need them most."

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Sgt. Bryan Trinidad of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how his work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Operation Warp Speed more than halfway to enrolling participants in vaccine trials

• Two of the six candidate vaccines for COVID-19 are now in Phase III trials. Each of those trials will require about 30,000 participants, and Operation Warp Speed is about half finished finding participants for the clinical trials, the deputy chief of staff for policy at the Department of Health and Human Services said.

• Operation Warp Speed is the program designed to find a vaccine for COVID-19 before the end of the year, and to quickly get a vaccine out to Americans by January 2021.

“Floodwater After a Disaster or Emergency” - Know what to do

• Floodwater and standing waters can be dangerous and can make you vulnerable to infectious diseases, chemical hazards, and injuries. Protect yourself and your loved ones from the risks brought by floodwater by following these steps.

• Know how the COVID-19 pandemic can affect disaster preparedness and recovery, and what you can do to keep yourself and others safe.

Election season do's and don'ts for DOD personnel

• Active-duty military and civilian employees are encouraged to take part in their civic duty by voting. In fact, DOD voting assistance is provided through the Federal Voting Assistance Program.

• Whether you're extremely involved in politics or you aren’t even registered to vote, the Defense Department has expectations for the way its military service members and civilian employees conduct themselves during this time.

• For more in-depth do's and don'ts concerning political activities, check out DOD Directive 1344.10.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 
Cpl. Valencia Foreman | 1015th Support Maintenance Company

Spc. Sean Daley is a tactical power generation specialist (91D) for the 1015th Maintenance Company in Forest Park, Ga.

Daley is currently enrolled in the Basic Leadership Course (BLC) and is part of the second class to go through BLC with the 3rd Battalion, 218th Regional Training Institute, South Carolina National Guard. 

“I’m ready to take up any task or challenge bestowed upon me and cannot wait to make the rank of sergeant,” stated Daley, to which he added, “BLC is online now due to COVID-19.”

Daley’s online course work mainly consists of interacting with a computer that is conducting auditory training and learning. “I would have liked being in a classroom environment for this course, only because I feel that the required classroom activities and team interactions would benefit the other soldiers who are not auditory learners and me.” 

However, Daley is no stranger to heavy workloads. He is currently on a break from college, studying mechanical engineering, accustomed to both hands-on and in-person learning. 

Daley used his knowledge with resiliency to overcome the thoughts associated with having to experience learning via a new format. 

“I honestly felt uncertain and doubtful in passing this course. I reached out to my peers and received great feedback on tackling the challenge placed on me. As a result, I eventually found myself adapting to this new change rather smoothly and found myself getting to know some of my BLC peers on a more personal level.”

Daley’s resiliency training helped him avoid a thinking trap and allowed him to use assertive communication to shut down counterproductive thinking. “I have ten days of training left, and although I stare at a computer screen for over six hours a day to complete the course work, the result will be 100% worth it,” mentioned Daley.

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

Aug. 24 - Army releases revised command policy. The Army recently published the latest version of its Army Command Policy since 2014, which now includes updates to corrective training, sexual harassment reporting and extremist activity on social media.

Aug. 25 - Update to law helps Soldiers with auto, home lease payments. Lawmakers recently passed an amendment to the Service Members Civil Relief Act, or SCRA, allowing Soldiers to terminate an auto or housing lease agreement without a 30-day notice due to a Defense Department stop-move order.

Aug. 26 - New ID cards being issued for military family members, retirees. The Defense Department began issuing Next Generation Uniformed Services Identification Cards on July 31, 2020, the first time since 1993 that changes to the card have been made.

Aug. 27 - Army Reserve issues next Double Eagle Fitness Challenge. The challenge will begin on Sept. 7, 2020, and end on Nov. 29, 2020. To complete the challenge, participants must complete the minimum cardiovascular requirements (cardio can be one event or a cumulative combination of all four) and either the Resistance/Strength training or High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) minimum requirements.

Aug. 28 - Virtual job fairs for veterans, spouses to offer thousands of career opportunities. Private companies and SFL will offer free online career fairs beginning with the National Virtual Career Fair Tuesday from 12 p.m.- 4 p.m. EDT.

Amid pandemic, Army program helps Families get back to school

• The COVID-19 global pandemic has changed the trajectory of how we handle personal, professional, and educational matters. Parents are faced with deciding whether to send their children back to school for possible part-time, in-class instruction or commit to distance learning from home.

• The biggest hurdle for Families is finding ways to keep their kids engaged and resilient while balancing work, home, and school schedules, all while maintaining social distancing.

How to Select, Wear, and Clean Your Mask

• CDC recommends that you wear masks in public settings around people who don’t live in your household and when you can’t stay 6 feet away from others. Masks help stop the spread of COVID-19 to others.

• When selecting a mask, there are many choices. Here are some do’s and don’ts.

Virtual job fairs for veterans, spouses to offer thousands of career opportunities

• The Army’s Soldier for Life program has reached into the virtual realm to assist Soldiers and their spouses as they adjust from Army to civilian life and search for employment.

• Private companies and SFL will offer free online career fairs beginning with the National Virtual Career Fair Tuesday from 12 p.m.- 4 p.m. EDT.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Ronald Nevers is an Army Reserve Soldier assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) serving as the Command Chief Warrant Officer (CCWO) in Orlando, Fla. In this interview, Nevers shares his role as the CCWO. 

Learn more about becoming a Warrant Officer in the Army Reserve. 

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Army Reserve issues next Double Eagle Fitness Challenge

• The challenge will begin on Sept. 7, 2020, and end on Nov. 29, 2020.

• To complete the challenge, participants must complete the minimum cardiovascular requirements (cardio can be one event or a cumulative combination of all four) and either the Resistance/Strength training or High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) minimum requirements.

• U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers can participate by submitting their information here.

Operation Ready Warrior teaches Soldiers adaptability, leadership

• U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers with the 518th Sustainment Brigade plot points on maps as part of the land navigation course at Fort McCoy, Wis., August 21, 2020. 

• The land navigation course allows Soldiers to build and maintain critical skills while also adhering to the health and safety protocols set forth by the Defense Department.

National Hurricane Center Weather Update

• Hurricane Laura: Damaging winds and flooding rainfall spreading inland over Western and Central Louisiana...life-threatening storm surge continues along much of the Louisiana coastline.

• Tropical Storm Hernan: Hernan strengthens slightly while moving slowly Northward offshore the coast of Southwestern Mexico.

• Tropical Storm Iselle: Iselle strengthens slightly while moving slowly Northeastward...expected to remain well away from Southwestern Mexico.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Capt. Stephani Tucker | 787th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion

Capt. Matthew Myers is a Chaplain (56A) for the 787th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB) in Dothan, Ala. He has been a part of the unit for approximately one year and serves as a religious leader in his community, working as an assistant pastor on the civilian side. 

All Soldiers and communities have been impacted differently by COVID-19, and one of the significant changes that Myers has contended with is the change to virtual communications. 

As an Army Reserve Soldier, most Soldiers are used to conference calls or text message check-ins to disseminate information, but working virtually with people for religious services created a new hardship. A large part of the process involves directly sitting down with people and interacting on a one-on-one basis. 

“I think that all of the distance and everything has impacted people since they can’t just walk by and see me in my office, but I feel like my contact information is finally starting to get circulated out there among the units,” said Myers. 

Working on resiliency, he continues to try to pray and read through scriptures during these times and stated that it is essential to try to exercise and do a lot of home workouts. For Myers, running is a big stress relief and said that he usually runs three times a week doing a few miles at a time. “I am currently trying to train up to a 10k. Looking at a year from November, my wife and I are looking to run one together. I’ve done a 5k, and there were lots of races around here [in our community], so we may try to jump in on one of those,” said Myers.

Myers would like to remind everyone that there’s a lot of questions circulating. Still, the important thing is to ultimately try to stay positive and look to whatever foundation you had before the pandemic. “Stay grounded and solid with things you can control rather than what you can’t control and what’s out there,” said Myers. 

If you need religious services or wish to speak with Capt. Myers, please reach out to him at 262-269-4221 or via email at matthew.w.myers33.mil@mail.mil. 

National Women’s Equality Day

• “The defense of our nation is a shared responsibility. Women have served in the defense of this land for years before our United States was born. They have contributed their talents, skills and courage to this endeavor for more than two centuries with an astounding record of achievement that stretches from Lexington and Concord to the Persian Gulf and beyond.” - Retired Gen. Gordon R. Sullivan, Chief of Staff of the Army, 1991-1995

• Women in current news: 

  • Former Army nurse, 100, recalls World War II experiences

  • Senate confirms first woman to command Army reserve

  • Explosive leadership: ‘Standing on the shoulders of giants’

Hurricane Laura Update

• Potentially catastrophic storm surge, extreme winds, and flash flooding expected along the Northwest Gulf Coast tonight.

• Steps to protect life and property should be rushed to completion in the next few hours.

New ID cards being issued for military family members, retirees

• The Defense Department began issuing Next Generation Uniformed Services Identification Cards on July 31, 2020, the first time since 1993 that changes to the card have been made.

• The new ID card transitions the current laminated paper card to much more durable plastic material, similar to that used for the common access cards used by military members and DOD civilians, he said.

• The complete transition to the new ID card, is targeted for January 2026. In the meantime, the current cards will continue to work.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Spc. Kylie Miller of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla, shared how her work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. (U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Update to law helps Soldiers with auto, home lease payments

• Lawmakers recently passed an amendment to the Service Members Civil Relief Act, or SCRA, allowing Soldiers to terminate an auto or housing lease agreement without a 30-day notice due to a Defense Department stop-move order.

• "Congress recognized that some service members had difficulty using the SCRA during the COVID-19 outbreak," she said. “The amendment to the SCRA will help address that problem."

Tropical Storm/Hurricane Updates

• NOAA Hurricane Hunter reports that Laura has become a hurricane.

• Marco becomes a remnant low just south of Louisiana.

DOD Crowdsources Efforts to Promote Diversity, Inclusion

• The Defense Department is crowdsourcing to find better ways to promote diversity and inclusion.

• Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper asked for the process as part of his Board on Diversity and Inclusion. The board — chaired by Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett — wants input from service members and DOD civilians, and crowdsourcing is one tool they will use

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 
Spc. Laquitta Rudd | 787th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion

Sfc. Jesus Rodriguez works as a maintenance supervisor (91X) in Dothan, Ala. for the 787th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB). 

Rodriguez deals with maintenance and operations for training units and has been taking responsibility for the safety and well-being of 787th CSSB Soldiers. As a leader, Rodriguez frequently checks in with Soldiers in his section, and if they're sick, he actively monitors their recovery as they recuperate. "With PII, there's a lot of information we can't see, so unless they [Soldiers] bring it to our attention, we can't report it to the brigade", said Rodriguez. "As information and education come out, we push it to Soldiers to make sure they have situational awareness and the latest updates." 

With the spread of Covid-19, Rodriguez has observed many professional and community changes. Personally, one of the most significant issues to impact him and his family was the travel ban. Due to Army regulations, Rodriguez can only travel within a 50-mile range, which has severely impacted coming together to support one another. "Families are financially having a hard time, and military training events are used to help with their situation," said Rodriguez, "Right now, everything's up in the air. Our unit's annual training, for instance, the travel was canceled to California, but now there have been difficulties with Soldiers having as far to go. It's a tough time because there's still a chance that things could be changed." 

According to Rodriguez, keeping a positive mindset is essential to staying resilient through Covid-19. "Every time that we go out, there's a risk and something new to worry about. For families, especially, it's difficult because kids are unable to go out as much as usual. We try to go for walks together, and when we go shopping, we make sure to take protective measures," said Rodriguez. Rodriguez explained some of the changes implemented for everyone's safety in his local gym. "We have to wear masks, gloves, and keep our hands clean at all times. We also have to wipe down the equipment after usage," added Rodriguez.

Rodriguez also wanted to inform Soldiers that units can help guide financial issues or resources. "Soldiers need support, but there are many reasons. Soldiers may not reach out, especially if they need to talk to somebody or don't feel confident in talking to someone. We're here for them," said Rodriguez. 

Army releases revised command policy

• The Army recently published the latest version of its Army Command Policy since 2014, which now includes updates to corrective training, sexual harassment reporting and extremist activity on social media.

• The 200-plus page policy, also known as Army Regulation 600-20, is the official guidance for commanders across the Army, and is typically revised every five years.

• The revised regulation has nearly 70 different changes, which is quite significant, said Lt. Col. Melissa Comiskey, chief of command policy for the Army’s G-1 office.

Army's Defense Forensic Science Center Works on Pandemic's Front Line

• As the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the United States, the Army made mission adjustments to focus on protecting the force, posturing for global operational readiness and supporting the national effort to fight the coronavirus.

• "U.S. Army researchers were critical during the SARS epidemic, the Zika virus and the Ebola outbreak as they helped develop antivirals and vaccines," Army Secretary Ryan D. McCarthy said in an April 1 statement. "They've done it before, and they will do it again."

Tropical Storm Updates

• Laura continues West-Northwestward over the far Northwestern Caribbean Sea. Heavy rainfall and flash flooding continues over Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and portions of Cuba.

• Marco continues to produce heavy rainfall and gusty winds along portions of the Northern Gulf Coast.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 
Cadet Dominique Pringle | 1015th Maintenance Company 

Spc. Valencia Foreman is a quartermaster and chemical equipment repairer (91J) for the 1015th Maintenance Company headquartered at Forest Park, Ga. 

A native of Atlanta, Foreman, is a Soldier with a multitude of skills. One of her responsibilities in the Army is centered around repairing primarily the Laundry Advanced System (LAS). She has also been cross-trained on other equipment in her unit’s inventory, including the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), Light Medium Tactical Vehicle (LMTV), and generators. She has become proficient in HMMWV and LMTV repair and other supplemental equipment at her unit. As an added measure, she is also training to be a Unit Public Affairs Representative (UPAR). 

Foreman’s skill set also transcends outside of her military duties. As an Army Reserve Soldier, Foreman serves Twice the Citizen as a police officer on the civilian side. In recent months, there have been challenges faced due to COVID-19 that would not have otherwise been a concern. 

When making house calls and responding to local citizen calls, there is an increased need for her to wear personal protective equipment (PPE). Her precinct has implemented preventative measures to further spread the coronavirus by conducting routine temperature checks, advising all those who have been exposed to seek medical attention immediately, and requiring personnel to wear masks while on duty to ensure public safety. 

Although this is a new protocol to become accustomed to, Foreman has relied on resiliency to adapt seamlessly to the circumstances. Also, she has continued to give both her military and policing career a full effort. She continues to be safe and assist her community to the greatest of her ability despite changes that have come with the current pandemic. 

Additionally, Foreman is no stranger to overcoming adversity and continues to remain resilient when faced with conflict. When asked how she’s able to remain her best self with her career, she replied, “I never bring work home. My family keeps me humble and happy, and I enjoy every moment I can get with them.” She is undoubtedly an inspiration with her attitude to take on things day by day and serves as a source of motivation for her fellow soldiers within her unit.

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

Aug. 17 - SMA SENDS: Reflecting on Year One. One year ago this week, I assumed responsibility as your Sergeant Major of the Army. I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of the world’s most disciplined, respected and lethal fighting force. Through a nearly no-notice deployment to Iraq, a courageous and comprehensive response to COVID-19, and a tough look inward to make our organization stronger through racial diversity and inclusion – we’ve stayed committed and ready to defend this great Nation.

Aug. 18 - Army Civilian Implementation Plan. The Civilian Implementation Plan (CIP) optimizes the vital contributions of Army Civilians by modernizing talent management policies and practices by enhancing them with more agile and data-driven approaches. 

Aug. 19 - DOD Continues Sexual Assault Support Services Amid COVID-19 Pandemic. The Department of Defense (DOD) announced that help for sexual assault survivors has not diminished during the National Emergency declared due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aug. 20 - Combat COVID-19 by donating plasma. In June 2020, the Department of Defense began an effort to collect donated units of plasma from patients who have fully recovered from COVID-19 to support the development of an effective treatment against the disease. The DoD’s goal is to obtain 10,000 COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma (CCP) units by September 30, 2020.

Aug. 21 - DoD partners with agencies to use AI for disaster, humanitarian relief. The Defense Department is partnering with other agencies to develop deep-learning artificial intelligence algorithms to provide near-real-time data to improve the decision-making of first responders engaged in natural disasters and humanitarian assistance efforts.

Tropical Storm Laura and Tropical Depression Fourteen

• The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is issuing advisories on Tropical Depression Thirteen and Tropical Depression Fourteen. 

• Stay informed by visiting the NHC’s active tropical cyclones reports.

DoD partners with agencies to use AI for disaster, humanitarian relief

• The Defense Department is partnering with other agencies to develop deep-learning artificial intelligence algorithms to provide near-real-time data to improve the decision-making of first responders engaged in natural disasters and humanitarian assistance efforts.

• Susie Adams, Microsoft's chief federal technology officer, said the work not only will help first responders in the United States, but also will be shared with global partners.

How do you want to get your Army Reserve news?

• Take the survey to identify how you, Army Reserve Soldiers, Civilians, and Family Members, are currently receiving information from the Army Reserve. 

• The Army Reserve will use the survey results to pinpoint the types of information you would like to receive from the Army Reserve and to make improvements in the delivery method.

Spc. Anastasia Johnston serves as a human resources specialist (42A) and is a proud Army Reserve Soldier in the 461st Human Resources Company out of Decatur, Gia. Johnston is a wife, mother of three boys, and an essential worker.  

Special education legal support now available to EFMP families

• Families in the Exceptional Family Member Program now have more resources to reach out to when they have legal questions about their rights.

• Close to 40 Army legal practitioners recently completed additional training to better support families with special education-related needs, said Melissa Halsey, legal assistance policy division chief for the Office of the Judge Advocate General.

Combat COVID-19 by donating plasma

• In June 2020, the Department of Defense began an effort to collect donated units of plasma from patients who have fully recovered from COVID-19 to support the development of an effective treatment against the disease. The DoD’s goal is to obtain 10,000 COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma (CCP) units by September 30, 2020.

• Donations will be accepted at Armed Services Blood Program donation centers across the continental United States, and in Hawaii, Guam and Germany, or through scheduled mobile collection drives.

Video: Defense Official Briefs Media at the Pentagon

• Ellen M. Lord, undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, briefed reporters on COVID-19 and other topics from the Pentagon.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Sgt. Gerald R. Brunst | 828th Transportation Battalion 

2nd Lt. Meghin Smith is a human resources officer (42B) and serves as the S1 for the 828 Transportation Battalion in Livingston, Ala. 

Working in the medical field, Smith shared how “The nursing staff has found ways to be more efficient to limit time with affected patients. The use of technology has assisted in reducing exposure for patients and medical staff alike.”  

To stay resilient, Smith likes to keep busy and spend time with her family. In her limited downtime, she also enjoys exercising and reading. Smith emphasizes how vital family is during these hard times.

When asked if she had a message to share, Smith stated, “Appreciate the small things and use the extra time at home to get personal goals and things done you may have been putting off.

Defeat shelter fatigue with these strategies

• Since March, many Soldiers and Civilians have been practicing social distancing and wearing masks when they go out to purchase essential goods. At this point, some people may feel like they are ready to get out there and start participating in the activities they enjoyed prior to COVID-19, such as traveling, attending barbeques with friends, or going to concerts, without taking any special precautions.

• This temptation to relax adherence to public health guidelines is called shelter fatigue – and it’s real. People may feel impatient with the rules and restrictions of the pandemic.

DOD Continues Sexual Assault Support Services Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

• The Department of Defense (DOD) announced that help for sexual assault survivors has not diminished during the National Emergency declared due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Once DOD put Force Health Protection measures in place, victim assistance professionals quickly shifted to telephone support, ensuring survivors received uninterrupted timely, professional, and quality assistance.

COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Installation Status Update

• Unrestricted travel is allowed for Service members or civilians between installations that have met the criteria of the Secretary of Defense memo on the conditions-based, phased approach to personnel movement and travel dated May 22, 2020. If either installation does not meet the criteria, an exemption or waiver would be required.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 

Staff Sgt. Kevin Munnerlin of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how his work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

Army Civilian Implementation Plan

• The Civilian Implementation Plan (CIP) optimizes the vital contributions of Army Civilians by modernizing talent management policies and practices by enhancing them with more agile and data-driven approaches. 

• This plan will increase the U.S. Army’s ability to acquire, develop, employ, and retain civilian talent and ensure Army readiness. The CIP provides strategic guidance to grow mission-critical occupations at critical-fill locations and defines career requirements to execute career development opportunities and training.

ArmyIgnitED

• Credentialing Assistance (CA) is now available on www.armyignited.com!  

• We encourage you to register your account today and find a credential that can help advance your career goals.  Choose from over 1600 credentialing options in just 4 easy steps on ArmyIgnitED.  Credentials can help advance your career goals by allowing you to choose a certification in an area that expands on your existing experience or an area of interest to help further new career opportunities.  

• All CA requests will be processed through www.armyignited.com.  They will no longer be submitted or accepted through GoArmyEd. Please note, eligible Soldiers must submit CA requests at least 30 business days prior to the start date of the training or exam. All CA Requests must have a start date on or after 7 Oct 20. 

SMA Sends: AR 600-20

• We’ve made significant updates to Army Regulation 600-20 – Army Command Policy. This important regulation covers many aspects of military life from military conduct and discipline, to programs like Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention, Military Equal Opportunity and more. As Soldiers, NCOs, Officers, and DA Civilians we all have an obligation to know, enforce and take appropriate action in accordance with Army Command Policy. 

• Just a few of the many changes include specified authority to correct minor acts of indiscipline with brief physical exercise, clarified reporting requirements for commanders on domestic violence, new guidance on religious accommodations, and expanded policy on extremist group cyber activities.

• Read the detailed list of updates at the beginning of AR 600-20

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Courtney Glasper | 282nd Quartermaster Company 

Staff Sgt. Cedric Mckeithen is a wheeled vehicle mechanic (91B) and serves as the shop foreman for the 282nd Quartermaster Company in Montgomery, Ala. 

Mckeithen is responsible for supervising and performing maintenance and recovery operations on wheeled vehicles and associated items, as well as heavy wheeled vehicles and select armored vehicles.

In his civilian profession, Mckeithen serves as a government information technologist for a large scientific corporation.

As an essential worker on the civilian side during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mckeithen manages to resolve more technical issues due to everyone working from home, overloading the system, and ensuring that workers can complete their job while working from home. 

When asked about his high levels of resiliency, Mckeithen was quick to mention that staying humble and ensuring that he takes care of himself and others is what keeps him so highly motivated. 

In his free time, Mckeithen enjoys game night, movie night and dancing with his children. “Spending time with my family is very important to me,” said Mckeithen.

SMA SENDS: Reflecting on Year One

• One year ago this week, I assumed responsibility as your Sergeant Major of the Army. I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of the world’s most disciplined, respected and lethal fighting force. Through a nearly no-notice deployment to Iraq, a courageous and comprehensive response to COVID-19, and a tough look inward to make our organization stronger through racial diversity and inclusion – we’ve stayed committed and ready to defend this great Nation.

• Even when you’re busy, take time to talk with your Squad. Share a meal. Play a sport together at the end of a hard day of training . When you’re home, spend time with your Family. Remind yourselves why it’s so great to be alive and to be a part of such an awesome team. And remember that while service is a privilege, every one of you deserves the best leadership and Quality of Life the Army can provide. We’ve got work to do, and I’m looking forward to being a part of it.

• Thank you for everything you do. I’m proud to be your Sergeant Major of the Army.

Updated Isolation Guidance Does Not Imply Immunity to COVID-19

• People with COVID-19 should be isolated for at least 10 days after symptom onset and until 24 hours after their fever subsides without the use of fever-reducing medications.

• CDC will continue to closely monitor the evolving science for information that would warrant reconsideration of these recommendations.

Army Resilience director urges Soldiers to report incidents of misconduct

• While the chain of command and other Army agencies exist to maintain the safety and well-being of the force, the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention program has specific measures in place to assist victims, said James Helis.

• Reaching out for support will help stop misconduct, he added, and allow the Army to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 
Capt. Jay Porter | 145th Transportation Detachment

Pfc. Tymesha Shropshire is a transportation management coordinator (88N) and serves as a Vehicle Inspector for the 145th Transportation Detachment in Anniston, Ala. Shropshire works as an automotive packing solutions specialist in her civilian capacity.

Shropshire provides a critical service in the vehicle inspections section ensuring that the appropriate vehicles are in working order for personnel and cargo movement.

While the auto parts industry may have declined a little at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it took no time for Shropshire to be back in full cadence at work. Her regular demands as an Army Reserve Soldier soon morphed into virtual battle assemblies, where she tapped her millennial strength as a social media power user. Social distancing, virtual meetings, online training, and email requests were insignificant obstacles for Shropshire. 

As a Soldier well versed with the use of special personal protective equipment (PPE), the pandemic requirement of donning a facemask and conducting regular temperature checks was similar to a military exercise for her. “I feel we all have a huge impact on fighting this virus by being proactive with any changes to our health and being socially responsible while at work, out shopping, and at home,” said Shropshire.

Shropshire continually practices resiliency. Her dedication to her family and community sees her through each day, and when asked how she stays the course through this COVID-19 pandemic, she stated, “I stay resilient just by continuing my daily routine, knowing that what I’m doing is providing for my family at home and our customers at work.”

Although Shropshire is busy keeping the transportation sector on the move, she always makes quality time for family and offers a little wisdom during this pandemic. 

“To those that feel helpless or fearful just remember, you must take care of yourself and those that depend on you,” said Shropshire. “You can accomplish this by staying the course and keeping your daily routine, but do it respectfully and above all, safely.”

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Aug. 10 - Preventing Sexual Harassment: What should I do? Intervene, Act and Motivate (I. A.M.) STRONG is the Army's campaign to combat sexual harassment and sexual assault by engaging all Soldiers in preventing sexual assault before they occur.

• Aug.11 - Donating plasma may be the key in the fight against COVID-19. Known as COVID Convalescent Plasma – CCP – it’s the liquid part of blood collected from patients who have recovered from the virus and now have antibodies that can be used to help others recover.

• Aug. 12 - ‘The Army Family’ awarded AUSA Marshall Medal for selfless service. “The Army Family” -- which includes spouses, parents, siblings, children, and the loved ones of American Soldiers -- was selected by AUSA’s Council of Trustees to be the 2020 recipient of the George Catlett Marshall Medal.

• Aug. 13 - Coronavirus: Operation Warp Speed. Using the resources of the federal government and the U.S. private sector, Operation Warp Speed (OWS) will accelerate the testing, supply, development, and distribution of safe and effective vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics to counter COVID-19 by January 2021.

• Aug. 14 - Back-to School Immunizations: What you need to know. Whether children physically attend classes or participate in online learning this fall, getting their scheduled immunizations remains an important part of back-to-school planning.

Back-to School Immunizations: What you need to know

• Whether children physically attend classes or participate in online learning this fall, getting their scheduled immunizations remains an important part of back-to-school planning.

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on-time vaccination throughout childhood is essential because it helps provide immunity before children are exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases.

DOD Official Discusses Conditions-Based Reopenings, Future of Telework

• Conditions-based reopenings have worked well for the Defense Department to date, and the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness anticipates the same stringent requirements will remain in place.

• The pandemic has had some effect on unit readiness. Some exercises and training events were cancelled due to the virus, but commanders have tried to make up those training events.

Drill sergeants to start receiving Army Greens this month

• The Army Green Service Uniform, which is based on the dress uniform worn by Soldiers during World War II, will be delivered to basic combat training drill sergeants at Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; and Fort Jackson, South Carolina, later this month with general sales at those installations’ post exchanges beginning this fall.

• The full wave of AGSU sales throughout the Army is slated to be implemented by March 2021.

• Trainees in basic training and one-station unit training are scheduled to begin receiving the new uniform starting from October through December. Soldiers must fully transition to the new uniform by Oct. 1, 2027.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 
Spc. Courtney Glasper | 282nd Quartermaster Company 

Staff Sgt. Lasandra Williams is an automated logistical specialist (92A) and serves as the operations and training noncommissioned officer for the 282nd Quartermaster Company in Montgomery, Ala. 

Williams previously served as a detective in General Crime for the Montgomery Police Department before transitioning to the Active Guard Reserve (AGR) program in 2018. As an AGR Soldier throughout the pandemic, she has ensured that her Soldiers have all of the resources they may need during these trying times by constantly reaching out to them. Further assisting Soldiers with financial help, finding jobs, and maintaining their general well-being.  

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Williams had to adjust to working from home while caring for three children, which has proven to be a challenge that Williams took head-on. 

Williams always goes above and beyond not only for her Soldiers but for others through her deeply instilled Army Value of selfless service. During her free time, Williams, along with her husband and children, enjoys working out, home spa dates, game nights, and movie nights.  When asked if she had a message to share, Williams stated “take care of yourselves, and remember to stay safe.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Armed Services YMCA is proud to work with the Department of Defense to offer the Military Outreach Initiative. 

The Military Outreach Initiative offers gym memberships and respite child care services for qualified military members and families nationwide. Through this initiative, military members and families receive access to vital resources that promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Coronavirus: Operation Warp Speed

• Using the resources of the federal government and the U.S. private sector, Operation Warp Speed (OWS) will accelerate the testing, supply, development, and distribution of safe and effective vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics to counter COVID-19 by January 2021.

• OWS is an unprecedented leap toward a historic breakthrough that will save countless lives. 

• OWS will leverage the most talented experts from across the Federal Government and private industry.

Chef Irvine, SMA cook up improvements to Army dining facilities

• Celebrity chef Robert Irvine offered senior leaders a recipe for success Tuesday, as dining facilities across the Army revamp business to meet modernization goals.

• The “Restaurant: Impossible” host was joined by Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael A. Grinston during a teleconference with other leaders to chat about ways to feed Soldiers and keep them coming back for more.

Meditation, mindfulness and the mind-body connection: ARCP Soldiers practice yoga and iRest

• Yoga and iRest are part of the SRU’s adaptive reconditioning program, which conducts activities and sports to help Soldiers optimize their wellbeing, return to active lifestyles and achieve goals. It’s part of the Army Recovery Care Program, which helps wounded, ill and injured Soldiers transition back to the force or to veteran status.

• “I like yoga because it helps with my pain and stress level and it helps me to be more mobile,” Sgt. Cathleen Nebre said. “I guess it’s the mind-body connection. It doesn’t take away all my pain, but it helps. It helps me to learn to be calm and practice being calm.”

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Danequa Smith | 991st Transportation Company

Spc. Jose Renderos serves as a motor transport operator (88M) and is a motivated soldier for the 991st Transportation Company out of Salisbury, N.C.

“I joined the Army Reserve because I always had the desire to help others and to give back to the community and my country,” reported Renderos. He chose the 88M military occupational specialty because it gives you benefits to commercial driver's license and can help you to enhance your future with or without the military.  

When Renderos is not carrying out his Soldier duties, he serves as a law enforcement officer for Charlotte, N.C. making sure to continue serving the citizens of his community, despite a pandemic. 

During COVID-19, Renderos’ workouts became different without going to the gym so he had to start outside workouts, which included running more than two miles, push-ups, sit-ups and to change things up, he plays soccer with his family and friends. 

Pertaining to COVID-19, Renderos’ response is to follow the rules that are set in place. “I have to think about others instead of myself because you never know what the person next to you is going through or what health conditions they may have which make them more susceptible to everything going on,” stated Renderos.

“Please make efforts to stay safe, healthy and to carry on with productivity. Always wear your mask and stay a safe distance from others when going out in public.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

MOVE! is a weight management, health promotion program designed to improve the lives of Veterans. MOVE!’s core ideas—encouraging healthy eating behavior, increasing physical activity, and promoting even small weight losses—are easy to follow and based on the latest in nutrition science. 

With the help of your MOVE! care team, you can reduce health risks, prevent or reverse certain diseases, improve your quality of life, and even live longer! 

If you would like to learn more about how MOVE! has helped thousands of Veterans achieve those goals, make sure to read our MOVE! Success Stories.

Medics Train at Ramstein for COVID-19 Response

• On July 14, members of the Air Mobility Command arrived at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, to teach local medical instructors how to respond to a number of situations that could happen with a negatively pressured conex, a device used to safely transport passengers and medical personnel in the midst of a viral outbreak.

• "There's not a huge demand within Eucom currently, but we're training, getting ready so if there is a demand, we're ready to go," Pilger said. "There's not going to be any delay, we'll be able to start moving patients Day One."

Military policeman named top Army drill sergeant

• To Staff Sgt. Erik Rostamo, the award means more than terrifying trainees or roaring the loudest; it’s about turning America’s youth into a skilled combat-ready force.

• “[Drill sergeants are] responsible for our nation’s sons and daughters,” he said, adding it’s a duty that demands excellence and that he doesn’t take lightly. “It’s the greatest responsibility someone could give. I’m taking civilians and turning them into the next generation of warfighters.”

‘The Army Family’ awarded AUSA Marshall Medal for selfless service

• “The Army Family” -- which includes spouses, parents, siblings, children, and the loved ones of American Soldiers -- was selected by AUSA’s Council of Trustees to be the 2020 recipient of the George Catlett Marshall Medal.

• “Army Families make a tremendous amount of sacrifices to support our Soldiers, and we should take every opportunity to show our appreciation,” said Ryan D. McCarthy, secretary of the Army. “This award recognizes their selfless service, which is especially well-deserved this year due to the extra burdens placed on Army Families during the coronavirus pandemic.”

• The announcement marks only the second time a group was chosen in lieu of a person. In 2004, the honor was given to “The American Soldier.”

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Staff Sgt. Kenya Mickens of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how her work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. (U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Fisher House Foundation provides scholarships for military children regardless of service member's status.

A total of 500 scholarship grants, each for $2,000, will be awarded for school year 2020-21. There will be at least one recipient selected at every commissary location where qualified applications are received, and additional recipients will be selected based on a prorate basis, so more applicants will be selected from those commissaries with larger numbers of applicants.

Sustainment Battalion Executes Unique Mission in Europe

• The 83rd Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 7th Mission Support Command, in conjunction with other United States Army Europe units and the USO, has partnered to safely introduce soldiers to the European theater. 

• The goal of TF Willkommen is to provide a safe and isolated environment for soldiers in between the United States and their final destination.

Donating plasma may be the key in the fight against COVID-19

• Known as COVID Convalescent Plasma – CCP – it’s the liquid part of blood collected from patients who have recovered from the virus and now have antibodies that can be used to help others recover.

• “The more stockpiles we get filled up, the more lives we can potentially save,” said 1st Lt. Joshua Boggess, officer in charge of the Tripler Blood Donor Center.

U.S. Army Project Inclusion

• Project Inclusion is the U.S. Army’s new initiative to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion across the force and build cohesive teams. As directed by the Secretary and the Chief of Staff of the Army, this holistic effort will listen to the Soldiers, Civilians and Family Members, and identify practices that inadvertently discriminate.

• The Army has enacted a range of initiatives, to include training to elevate unconscious bias awareness and mitigate its impacts.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Capt, Sherry A. Shack | 287th Transportation Company

Sgt. Shamari Carmen is a unit supply specialist (92Y) who is currently on her first tour in the Active Guard Reserve (AGR) program, assigned to the 287th Transportation Company out of Livingston, Ala. 

Before joining the AGR program, Carmen was a police officer for the city of Savannah, Ga., and was attached to the 2/349th Logistical Support Battalion out of Fort Stewart, Ga.  

Carmen’s role during the pandemic is indirect. Some of her primary duties are maintaining unit property accountability and ensuring Soldiers have organizational clothing and individual equipment (OCIE), the uniforms, and any supplies needed in garrison or a field environment. Since the start of the pandemic, Carmen’s work schedule has changed significantly. She works in the unit supply office two days out the week and teleworks from home the remaining days. She says her motivation and drive have not decreased because of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

To stay resilient, Carmen does physical training on the days she comes to work and a modified workout at home. She also spends lots of time with her two kids and husband on activities like nightly walks, fishing, or cooking. She does not venture out much, especially having two small kids at home, a three-year-old child, and a four-month-old child. She reports that she adheres to the CDC guidelines by social distancing, wearing a mask in public, and having hand sanitizer accessible.

When asked if she had a message to share, Carmen stated, “Faith is seeing light with your heart when all your eyes see is darkness”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Employment Readiness Program (ERP) offers resources to help with your career plan and job search. Whether you’re a military spouse or Family member who just moved to a new installation, Retiree, or DoD civilian looking for new opportunities, or active duty Military, active Reserve, National Guard member, or Wounded Warrior, we’re here to help.

82nd Airborne Division Conducts Realistic Training Despite COVID-19

• The Army's 82nd Airborne Division is employing COVID-19 measures while still conducting realistic training for its paratroopers.
• ''This training was unique because many of our mitigation measures for COVID-19 are in effect,'' he said. ''We are using unique strategies within the COVID restriction guidelines mandated by [Forces Command].''

Preventing Sexual Harassment: What should I do?

• Intervene, Act and Motivate (I. A.M.) STRONG is the Army's campaign to combat sexual harassment and sexual assault by engaging all Soldiers in preventing sexual assault before they occur.
• All Soldiers and Department of the Army (DA) Civilians have a responsibility to help resolve acts of sexual harassment. 
• Safe Helpline has created six ways for members of the Department of Defense community to access anonymous, confidential, and secure support and information, 24/7— getting you access to the help you need, anytime, anywhere.

Keys To Progress by Progressive

• Progressive works with military and charity organizations to find deserving veterans in need of a vehicle and gather their stories. Vehicles are donated to recipients through a non-profit organization.
• The program’s main event is a one-day giveaway held at Progressive offices and affiliated locations across the United States. We’ll be holding our 8th annual Keys to Progress vehicle giveaway event on November 5, 2020, with the goal of giving away another 45 vehicles to veterans and their families and veteran organizations.
• Deadline: Aug. 15, 2020.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Shunta Vanhorn | 828th Transportation Battalion 

Sgt. Courtney D. Williams serves as an Active Guard Reserve human resource sergeant (42A) for the 828th Transportation Battalion located in Livingston, Ala. 

Since his arrival in January 2020, Williams has managed to adapt to his job role and learn new things from others he serves with. 

“This pandemic has not only changed the way we live but it changes how we have to adapt to living and working in ways we are not familiar with at all. I now have to get used to virtually working from home and when going outside of my home, make sure that I have the necessary items (mask, gloves, hand sanitizer/wipes) to protect myself and others,” said Williams. 

He conveyed that even though COVID-19 has them teleworking, it has made them communicate more, which is a plus. 

Williams has been staying resilient throughout the pandemic by reading the Bible, connecting more with God, working out while at home, and playing video games in his spare time. He understands with COVID-19, this is the new normal for a while but has faith in God that he will make it through. 

He would like to encourage others to “Continue to stay safe and follow the proper protocols to keep us all safe from the spread of this virus. Enjoy your time being with your families but remember to practice social distancing,” said Williams.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

DOD Safe Helpline presents: Building Hope and Resiliency: Addressing the Effects of Sexual Assault...

A self-guided, online, educational program that seeks to help you begin to recover, heal and build resiliency after a sexual assault. Recognizing the impact that trauma can have, this program is part of a comprehensive effort to enhance resilience and improve readiness across the Total Force.

Telephone Helpline: Speak directly with a Safe Helpline staff member over the phone, 24/7 by calling 877-995-5247. The phone number is the same in the U.S. and worldwide via DSN.

Responders Near Me: Receive information about local and national responders and resources, anytime, anywhere from the website, via text, and on the Safe Helpline app. You can text your zip code or installation to 55-247 (in the U.S.) or 202-470-5546 (outside the U.S.) to receive a responder’s contact information. Message and data rates may apply.

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Aug. 3 - Annual Training with the 143d ESC Headquarters. The 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) Headquarters and Headquarters Company conducted movement from Orlando, Fla., to Fort Stewart, Ga., for their Annual Training in support of the 3rd Infantry Division Aug. 2, 2020. 

• Aug. 4 - August is Army Antiterrorism Awareness Month. The Army Antiterrorism Program continues to mature and expand its outreach efforts. Under the leadership and oversight of the Office of the Provost Marshal General’s (OPMG), Antiterrorism Division, the Army established and sustains an antiterrorism strategic plan and communications synchronization plan to guide and promote program efforts.

• Aug. 5 - Army developing mobile app to give Soldiers remote task management tools. As part of the “This is My Squad” initiative, the Army is developing a new mobile app to help leaders better connect with their squad members and manage everyday tasks. 

• Aug. 6 - Resilient World Class Soldier-athletes train for Olympics despite COVID-19. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Soldier-Athletes in the World Class Athlete Program are hard at work training for the 2021 Summer Olympic Games.

• Aug. 7 - Modernizing mitigation of COVID-19. On the battlefield, a few seconds can be the difference between someone living or someone dying. In the war on COVID-19, time can be an enemy or a friend, as well. The time spent waiting on results is time the virus can quickly spread to other individuals. Military personnel at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, recently acquired a new weapon in their arsenal.

Modernizing mitigation of COVID-19

• On the battlefield, a few seconds can be the difference between someone living or someone dying. In the war on COVID-19, time can be an enemy or a friend, as well. The time spent waiting on results is time the virus can quickly spread to other individuals. Military personnel at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, recently acquired a new weapon in their arsenal.

• “It doesn’t take long to collect a sample at all,” said Army Sgt. Christopher Garrett, a medical laboratory specialist from Portsmouth, Virginia, with the 411th Hospital Center. “Once that sample is processed, I get a result in about 51 minutes flat for a ‘yes’ or a ‘no.’”

Workforce reminded to be watchful during Antiterrorism Awareness Month, always

• This year, due to the pandemic impacting the country, Antiterrorism Awareness Month looks different than in years past. Though most Redstone Arsenal employees don’t have to travel through physical security checkpoints to get to work, it’s just as important to be vigilant while working from home.

• “Your actions are critical to prevent, identify and mitigate the impact of potential terrorist attacks,” Paschal said. “We all help provide the advanced warning needed to defend against terrorism if we remain aware and notify others when we see something.”

2020 Soldier of the Year: Meet the Army trombonist whose family has served the country since the Civil War

• Spc. Joseph Murrell, a trombonist with the 399th Army Band, was named U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center of Excellence Soldier of the Year at the 2020 Best Warrior Competition in July.

• “You can look at history and see it as this terrible thing to be ashamed of, or you can see it as a nation that is slowly making its way toward a more realized version of what it was supposed to be – becoming, over time, better and better,” he said.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Kathia Del Rio | 196th Transportation Company

Sgt. Courtney Glasper is an automated logistical specialist and serves as a proud squad leader for the 282nd Quartermaster Company in Montgomery, Ala. Currently, she is working on becoming the unit public affairs representative.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Glasper has worked as a medical assistant at a local doctor's office and claims it has been “non-stop” since the start of it all, going on to add, “We’ve been taking care of COVID-19 patients which means we never close. I’ve essentially been working for the entirety of the pandemic.” 

Glasper also attends virtual battle assembly and has taken on the role of platoon sergeant intermittently. “I love checking in on Soldiers to make sure that they are doing well, physically, mentally, and financially,” added Glasper. 

On changes brought on by the pandemic, Glasper reported increased outdoor exercise within her community and more individuals on the 11-mile hiking trail around the local lake. “I’ve taken to hiking the 11-mile lake trail as part of my physical training routine. It definitely helps to remain resilient and positive about the situation at hand.” 

“Try to keep your mind off everything going on and think positive through it all. It’s very stressful working in healthcare because patients get stressed out of fear of the situation so I try my best to remain positive and understand what they’re going through,” mentioned Glasper. “I also make it a point to spend time with my kids and go for daily walks.” 

When asked for any words of advice, Glasper added, “Please wear your mask and wash your hands. Make an effort to adhere to health guidelines set in place by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention because a lot of people are not and most importantly, stay positive!”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The path to purpose begins with Today’s Military.

Discover what it takes to join the Military and learn how a career of service can lead to a fulfilling life.

Resilient World Class Soldier-athletes train for Olympics despite COVID-19

• Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Soldier-Athletes in the World Class Athlete Program are hard at work training for the 2021 Summer Olympic Games.

• “I think we have an advantage, we are more resilient,” said Bor. “At the end of the day there are things we cannot control. There is nothing to do but keep training and stay healthy.”

• How are you staying resilient?

Army, University of Pennsylvania team up to train virus-detecting dogs

• The U.S. Army and the University of Pennsylvania have entered into a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA) to explore the ability of dogs to safely detect biomarkers produced by the COVID-19 virus in humans.

• Medical researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet) Working Dog Center have trained dogs to detect ovarian cancer and diabetes. Could using dogs to detect COVID-19 in humans be far behind?

CIO Says Top-Level Leadership Helped DOD Navigate COVID Crisis

• Clear guidance early on from Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper ensured the Defense Department would be able to continue operating through the COVID-19 crisis, the department's chief information officer said.

• Before COVID-19, he said, about 80,000 to 90,000 people per day were teleworking across the department. The numbers of people who would need to be able to work from home once COVID restrictions were put in place weren't known at the time, the CIO noted. ''We now know it was a 10 times growth,'' said Dana Deasy, Department of Defense Chief Information Officer.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Pfc. Jake Coker | 623rd Inland Cargo Transfer Company 

Sgt. Aven Anderson serves as a cargo specialist (88H) and assistant training noncommissioned officer for the 623rd Inland Cargo Transfer Company out of Lake Park, Fla.

Due to battle assembly being postponed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Anderson has turned his focus to his role as a warehouse selector trainer for a well-established distribution company in which he is in charge of training new employees on how to package products in a warehouse. 

“It has been difficult to train new people because no one is showing up. We are in charge of shipping non-contaminated packages to stores and since we are low on people, we now have an increased workload,” added Anderson. Working the night shift means that whatever is packaged that night has to be shipped out that same night, therefore Anderson reported an increased effort to hire new personnel to fill current vacancies and add extra manpower.

When asked how he’s been following the CDC health guidelines, Anderson stated, “I stay inside to practice social distancing unless I’m working and as a result, it makes training difficult but interesting. I also like to keep in mind that I can’t get sick because if I do then my employees will have one less person to train the new employees and one less person to help make sure every shipment runs smoothly.”

Aside from conducting social distancing and work, Anderson spends his free time live streaming video games and spending time with his dog.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is here for you. 

Whether you have struggled with suicide yourself or have lost a loved one, know you are not alone. Hear about personal experiences from people in your local community whose lives have been impacted by suicide.

Are you in a crisis? Call 800-273-8255 or text TALK to 741741.

Army ready to respond to hurricanes, fires

• A busy Atlantic hurricane season is predicted for 2020 — the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts 13 to 19 named storms of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes including 3 to 6 major (category 3, 4, or 5) hurricanes. This is above the average. 

• DSCA is a total force effort by all federal military forces —active, guard and reserve military forces, Department of Defense civilians, and contract personnel.

Army developing mobile app to give Soldiers remote task management tools

• As part of the “This is My Squad” initiative, the Army is developing a new mobile app to help leaders better connect with their squad members and manage everyday tasks. 

• The app development squad will work with Army Futures Command to explore mobile solutions for training management, counseling and sponsorship. Violent, loud and decisive: A Gulf War veteran recalls his time in the desert, 30 years later

• What inspires you to serve? For retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Bob Lehtonen, “It was the people. The Soldiers, leaders and civilians,” who inspired him to stay.

Violent, loud and decisive: A Gulf War veteran recalls his time in the desert, 30 years later

• What inspires you to serve? For retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Bob Lehtonen, “It was the people. The Soldiers, leaders and civilians,” who inspired him to stay.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Sgt. Edward Fahy | 623rd Inland Cargo Transfer Company 

Spc. Maya Allen serves as a cargo handler (88H) for the 623rd Inland Cargo Transfer Company out of Lake Park, Fla. 

There have been many challenges for Allen during the COVID-19 pandemic but she refuses to let them affect her. 

Before COVID-19 she was working for a major power company as a customer care representative and was a full-time college student living on campus. 

However, this pandemic has shed new light on having multiple streams of income and as a result, Allen started her own hair extensions company which she successfully operates from home with her family as a direct result of social distancing. 

Allen claims that resiliency hasn’t been easy to keep in mind but it helps to keep in touch with a community service organization at her university, which she deeply connects with. “Taking time for myself every day to meditate and dwell on good things is important for my mental and physical well-being. Whether it be exercising or safely hanging out with friends, one needs to do whatever it takes to remain happy and healthy,” added Allen.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Army Emergency Relief: COVID-19 Response and Resources for Soldiers and families in need. 

Total COVID-19 Assistance Numbers: 409 Soldiers, $738k disbursed (as of 21 July 2020)

August is Army Antiterrorism Awareness Month

• The Army Antiterrorism Program continues to mature and expand its outreach efforts. Under the leadership and oversight of the Office of the Provost Marshal General’s (OPMG), Antiterrorism Division, the Army established and sustains an antiterrorism strategic plan and communications synchronization plan to guide and promote program efforts.

Rapid mobilization of the DOD manufacturing base to solve COVID-19 supply shortages

• In the last several months, we have been living in a world that we may have once thought of as science fiction, because of the worldwide pandemic – COVID-19. 

• The Department of Defense recognized the need to move quickly in addressing the critical need for medical supplies, such as PPE and sample collection kits for COVID-19 testing.

You Can Vote From Anywhere

• Information to help you understand the absentee voting process, learn how to complete your absentee ballot request, and successfully cast your absentee ballot.

• Voting Residency Fact Sheet

• Election Dates Calendar

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Shunta Vanhorn | 828th Transportation Battalion

Spc. Autumn Boger serves as a human resource specialist (42A) for the 828th Transportation Battalion, headquartered out of Livingston, Ala. On the civilian side, Boger works at a major retail store as a sales associate. 

“This pandemic has taken a toll on my life, and everyone around me as well,” said Boger. Since the beginning of the pandemic, her school switched to virtual learning and plans to stick with it until 2021. In addition, her workplace was shut down due to the stay-at-home order that was issued at the beginning of the pandemic. 

However, Boger’s workplace has since then reopened with some minor changes, to which she is very thankful for. Proper personal protective equipment is now mandated and her workplace is limited on the capacity of customers the store can have at a time to help prevent further spread of the virus. 

Aside from the changes to work and her normal lifestyle, the pandemic has made her feel drained from having to stay at home for long stretches at a time. Boger combats this by remaining active as both a Soldier and civilian. “Staying active helps me get through the pandemic,” added Boger. She also believes that it is important to follow the guidelines that our state and counties have mandated to ensure our safety, but suggests that staying active and moving is a necessity to a healthy life. 

“Everyone should try to still enjoy life despite everything that is going on with the pandemic,” said Boger.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The National Hurricane Center’s mission is to save lives, mitigate property loss, and improve economic efficiency by issuing the best watches, warnings, forecasts, and analyses of hazardous tropical weather and by increasing understanding of these hazards. 

Learn more on current weather patterns.

Annual Training with the 143d ESC Headquarters

• The 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) Headquarters and Headquarters Company conducted movement from Orlando, Fla., to Fort Stewart, Ga., for their Annual Training in support of the 3rd Infantry Division Aug. 2, 2020. 

Personal Pride for all Soldiers

• The Army is a profession. By wearing the uniform of the U.S. Army, Soldiers follow the legacy of those who served before them. Our uniforms embody the professionalism and commitment to the Army Values - loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. The uniform is a symbol of honor and tradition, of esprit de corps and morale, and of personal excellence and pride.

The Army's Vantage Point

• Army leaders at all echelons have been enthusiastic about providing their data to the platform’s data capture teams and have embraced Vantage as a way to solve problems within their own organizations.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Kathia Del Rio | 196th Transportation Company 

Sgt. Edward Fahy is a cargo specialist (88H) for the 623rd Inland Cargo Transfer Company in Lake Park, Fla. Fahy also serves as the unit public affairs representative as an additional duty.

Virtual battle assembly, according to Fahy, has involved the participation of all 623rd ICTC Soldiers, who have shown great interest. 

“I’m also a team leader and an assistant squad leader occasionally. Aside from that, I’m responsible for the unit driver training course and look forward to conducting some much needed hands-on training during Annual Training,” stated Fahy. 

COVID-19 has presented numerous changes to Fahy, like many others, who reported increased social distancing and the wearing of personal protective equipment. “People seem to be on edge due to heightened awareness with COVID-19 and unlike many others, my neighborhood has mostly remained indoors as opposed to the increased outdoor activities others have experienced,” stated Fahy. “However, I try not to let that stuff get to me. I’m a handyman and have taken to helping fellow neighbors with home repairs and the likes, which keeps everyone in good spirits.” 

When Fahy isn’t working, attending a virtual battle assembly, or lending a helping hand, he stays resilient by remaining positive and communicating with people. “I visit my neighbors and encourage them to stay healthy and adhere to health guidelines. I also enjoy exercising and connecting with old friends on social media,” he added. 

Fahy is also a neighborhood photographer and enjoys attending local motocross races in order to motivate and cheer on the racers. “I love to come over to cheer them on! By photographing the races and events, I’m able to help the participants improve their stunts and movements because they want to look better for the camera.” 

When asked for words of advice, Fahy firmly concluded, “Stay vigilant and stay strong. Remember to encourage one another. Stay positive and passionate and do what you love. Ultimately, use this time to unplug and enjoy life.”

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• July 27 - Army continuously operates on four fronts of readiness. The Army constantly works under four types of readiness conditions to ensure Soldiers at every echelon are prepared for missions around the world, the service’s top operations officer said Wednesday.

• July 28 - Initial Message to the Force. Lt. Gen. Jody J. Daniels outlines her priorities as the new chief of Army Reserve and commanding general, U.S. Army Reserve Command, in an initial message to the force: "Now, more than ever, America needs a powerful and resilient federal reserve force, ready to deliver vital capabilities — on the battlefield and in the homeland — fulfilling our integral role as a critical force provider for the Army and the joint force.

• July 29 - You Can Vote From Anywhere. The Federal Voting Assistance Program works to ensure service members, their eligible family members, and overseas citizens are aware of their right to vote and have the tools and resources to successfully do so — from anywhere in the world.

• July 30 - Ready Now! Shaping Tomorrow... Military history was made when Lieutenant General Jody Daniels became the first woman to take charge of the U.S. Army Reserve, a force of nearly 200,000 soldiers. She's also the first woman to lead any Army component.

• July 31 - Knowledge, balancing resources vital to Army’s COVID-19 efforts. Driven by a three-phase emergency response plan, the Army has contributed in every facet of the ongoing battle against COVID-19, the service’s top medical officer said Wednesday.

Knowledge, balancing resources vital to Army’s COVID-19 efforts

• Driven by a three-phase emergency response plan, the Army has contributed in every facet of the ongoing battle against COVID-19, the service’s top medical officer said Wednesday.

• Virtual behavioral health options also increased allowing Soldiers to seek help even while on stay-at-home orders. Soldiers have been encouraged to use virtual health care because of its privacy and discretion, Dingle said, adding he believes those options will normalize how people seek behavioral health care in the future.

Find Your Why

• Staff Sgt. Henry Rakestraw, a drill sergeant, explains how "your why" will carry you through good and bad days.

Access Education Resources

• The Army Continuing Education System is committed to your long-term professional development and offers many programs in addition to Tuition Assistance benefits to help you prepare for your future.

• GoArmyEd has many training and support options available to help answer frequently asked questions and guide you through common processes like requesting TA.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
1st Lt. Samantha McLeod | 803rd Quartermaster Company

1st Lt. Kaylynn Brittain is a Quartermaster Officer serving as the Executive Officer for the 803rd Quartermaster Company in Opelika, Ala. 

Brittain recently decided to become a stay-at-home mother to her two-year-old son, AJ, while she finishes her master’s degree in emergency management, which she expects to graduate in spring 2021. She made this decision because her husband is currently preparing for deployment and childcare was not available due to the restrictions put into place by COVID-19.

As a side effect of COVID-19, Brittain says her role changed from a full-time employee and student to staying home with her son. “The restrictions that have been placed have given me the opportunity to teach my son the importance of health and safety, as well as how to be patient and resilient in our current world situation.”

With normal activities such as going to the park or visiting grandparents being put on hold, Brittain has been forced to get creative in how she spends her days with her son while staying connected to family.

“Staying resilient during a time of uncertainty can be a daunting task! If I have any advice for anyone it would be to take the time for self-care. Everyone’s reacting to this pandemic differently, so it is important to search within yourself and figure out what it is that you need. You can’t be the employee or Soldier that you need to be if your energy tank is empty, so you need to figure out what you need to do to fill your tank… Think of your emotional, spiritual, mental, or physical tank,” added Brittain.

“As a leader in the Army, it is important now more than ever to reach out to your Soldiers and check in on them and their families. Because of quarantining and being disconnected from friends and family, taking the time to call your Soldiers may be their opportunity to open up and give them a chance to speak freely on their situation. As officers, non-commissioned officers, and leaders - ensuring Soldier safety and well-being should be our top priority not only during training but every day.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Army Sustainment's mission is to publish timely, authoritative information on Army and Department of Defense sustainment plans, programs, policies, operations, procedures, and doctrine for the benefit of all Army personnel. Its purpose is to provide a medium for disseminating and exchanging sustainment news and information and a forum for expressing original, creative, innovative thought about sustainment.

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Ready Now! Shaping Tomorrow...

• Military history was made when Lieutenant General Jody Daniels became the first woman to take charge of the U.S. Army Reserve, a force of nearly 200,000 soldiers. She's also the first woman to lead any Army component.

What does it mean to be #HurricaneStrong?

• #HurricaneStrong is a national hurricane resilience initiative to save lives and homes through collaboration with leading organizations in the disaster safety movement.

• Get started and make a plan today!

Coronavirus: DOD Response Timeline

• The Defense Department is responding to every development in the COVID-19 pandemic and remains focused on protecting our people, safeguarding our missions and supporting the American people.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Kathia Del Rio | 196th Transportation Company

Warrant Officer Dedra Jones serves as a human resources technician (420A) for the 814th Adjutant General Detachment (AG DET), out of Starkville, Miss. In her civilian capacity, Jones is a program analyst and education benefits coordinator for the Mississippi Army National Guard.

During the start of COVID-19, Jones was in the middle of Warrant Officer Candidate School at Fort Rucker, Ala. to which she claims “changes began to escalate quickly…” adding, “my classmates and I had no choice but to adjust to the constant changes that came into play and our leadership skills pertaining to change, which were truly tested.” 

“Everyone was concerned about their families at home which added a great deal of stress and anxiety to what we already had to endure. However, we ensured our performance levels were up to par and that we completed the Training and Doctrine Command requirements to successfully graduate training,” stated Jones. 

Unfortunately, Jones and her class were not able to experience the long-standing traditions that come with attending Warrant Officer Candidate School due to the pandemic, but Jones remains in high spirits since graduating and believes that “We will all have a very different story to tell and memories to share. We showed up and overcame the challenges COVID-19 presented to us.” 

As for resiliency, Jones adamantly stated, “I challenge everyone to stay busy, stay the course and have some goals during this pandemic. Having something to accomplish has helped me stay resilient throughout COVID-19. Take that online college course, get that online certification, research that topic of interest you have been wanting to learn more about, work on your physical fitness, perhaps read those books that have been collecting dust in your library. If you have family in your household, spend time with them, and bond. Whatever it is, just do it and be safe doing so!” 

“I have lost two family members during this pandemic. It’s scary. Especially when your phone rings and you’re not sure what you’re about to hear from the other end of the line. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel and yes, right now are trying times, but it won’t last forever. I challenge all who read this to get out and be a helping hand to your neighbors, your community and even surrounding communities. Let’s not forget about others during the current crisis we are in. If there is a time to come together as one, now is that time. You won’t regret it,” added Jones.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Army Disaster Personnel Accountability and Assessment System (ADPAAS) allows Army Personnel to do the following:

• Report Accounting Status

• Update Contact/Location Information

• Complete Needs Assessment

• View Reference Information

Collecting convalescent plasma to knock out COVID-19

• The world is searching for a treatment, a cure and a prevention for COVID-19. One piece of that puzzle may be tapped via the sap of human life – blood. At Madigan Army Medical Center, and 14 other Department of Defense facilities, those who have recovered from COVID-19 can donate the liquid part of their blood – the plasma – in an effort to apply it to use as a treatment for those battling the disease now.

You Can Vote From Anywhere

• The Federal Voting Assistance Program works to ensure service members, their eligible family members, and overseas citizens are aware of their right to vote and have the tools and resources to successfully do so — from anywhere in the world.

GRFD Scholarship Minuteman Campaign Opportunities

• If you are interested in receiving an Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship and commissioning into the Army Reserve, the GRFD Scholarship Minuteman Campaign provides you an excellent opportunity.

• The GRFD Scholarship Minuteman Campaign covers 4 years of full tuition and fees or $10,000 for room and board at colleges and universities served by an Army ROTC program.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Pfc. Kevin Serrano of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla., shared how his work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. (U.S Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Find a military member, unit or facility. Get guidelines on sending mail to service members. Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They'll get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

• Talk to a live USA.gov agent

• Web Chat with a live USA.gov agent

Initial Message to the Force

• Lt. Gen. Jody J. Daniels outlines her priorities as the new chief of Army Reserve and commanding general, U.S. Army Reserve Command, in an initial message to the force: "Now, more than ever, America needs a powerful and resilient federal reserve force, ready to deliver vital capabilities — on the battlefield and in the homeland — fulfilling our integral role as a critical force provider for the Army and the joint force.

• Did you miss the live broadcast of Lt. Gen. Daniels swearing-in and assumption of command? Watch it here. 

Exercise your right to vote!

• You can check voter registration deadlines, get absentee ballot assistance, and more information from your unit Voting Assistance Officer, or at the Federal Voting Assistance Program website.

Community Mitigation Strategies

• CDC Community Mitigation Framework: Actions that individuals, businesses, health departments, and community settings (such as schools) can take to slow the spread of COVID-19.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 
Spc. Kathia Del Rio | 196th Transportation Company

Spc. Megan Graham serves as a signal support systems specialist (25U) and unit public affairs representative for the 492nd Signal Company out of Knightdale, N.C. 

In her civilian capacity, Graham is an essential employee as a corrections officer for the state of North Carolina. “I’ve been working the night shift the entirety of COVID-19,” stated Graham, who is committed to continuing to work despite the one hour commute each way. “It’s been challenging, not only in regards to safety within the prison walls but also when it comes to driving through counties with curfews set in place. Luckily, my subordinates were quick to issue memos, explaining the work situation in the event of getting pulled over.” 

Aside from the obvious changes to work and lifestyle, Graham was proud to share how quick her facility was to implement safety measures in response to the coronavirus. “We wear facial masks as soon as we set foot onto the parking lot, conduct health screenings and temperature checks and they’ve implemented quarantine pods, which are used to quarantine individuals who transfer to and from our facility to prevent further spread of the virus,” shared Graham. 

When she isn't working or attending a virtual battle assembly, Graham makes it a point to head to the gym in the mornings and believes it’s a great way to relieve stress and clear her mind. “I’m also very adamant about staying in contact with my significant other, who is currently active duty and residing in a different state, and both my Army sister an actual sister, who are both essential workers.” About words of advice, Graham went on to mention “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. That’s pretty much how I get through everything.” 

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Army's Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program is the Army's integrated, proactive effort to end sexual harassment and sexual assault within our ranks.

143d ESC Sexual Assault Response Coordinator
Mr. Jacob Harmeson
910-771-0328

Army continuously operates on four fronts of readiness

• The Army constantly works under four types of readiness conditions to ensure Soldiers at every echelon are prepared for missions around the world, the service’s top operations officer said Wednesday.

• At any given time, the Army is responding to competition, crisis, conflict and change, Lt. Gen. Charles Flynn, head of the Army’s G-3/5/7 office, said as part of the Association of the U.S. Army’s Noon Report series.

• “It’s really about a set of conditions that we have to operate in all the time and they’re overlapping,” he said. “At the end of the day, the United States Army builds readiness to win.”

DOD Schedules Second Annual CIO Global Virtual Town Hall Meeting

• The Defense Department will host the second annual DOD Chief Information Officer Global Virtual Town Hall meeting Aug. 12 for DOD personnel to provide an opportunity for the department's information technology and cyber workforce to learn more about the department’s continued execution of the Digital Modernization Strategy and receive updates on telework and the DOD COVID-19 Telework Readiness Task Force.

Like a BOS: Unit provides life support for troops and civilians

• The 207th Regional Support Group spent much of 2020 in support of Operation Inherent Resolve overseeing life support at three such locations in Iraq – Al Asad Air Base, Erbil Air Base and the Taji Military Complex. Members of the Army Reserve unit, acting as Base Operating Support Integrator (BOS-I) cells, have dealt with the January ballistic missile strikes, extremist attacks and an ongoing pandemic.

• U.S. Army Col. Jerome Jackson, who commanded the unit and Al Asad Air Base throughout the deployment, praised the work of his troops.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
1st Lt. Jade Leonard | 461st Human Resources Company

Cpl. Ennun Walker is a human resources specialist (42A) and serves as a Squad Leader for the 461st Human Resources Company in Decatur, Ga. 

Escaping a troubled past, the U.S. Army gave him an opportunity for a better life. He learned discipline, respect, duty, work ethic, and the confidence that he could accomplish anything, tools that he didn’t have before. By overcoming adversity, losing 50 pounds, and pushing himself physically and mentally, he developed trust.

On the civilian side, Walker works as an Army Reserve Administrator for the 450th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Battalion in Houston, Texas. His role in the COVID-19 pandemic is indirect. His primary duties are medical readiness, accounting to affected Soldiers, and delegating information and resources available. Since the pandemic’s strike, he noticed the way work is done has changed. Everything went from physical interactions to digital. From his perspective, virtual battle assemblies impact motivation and morale. He hopes in future situations, proactive measures versus reactiveness will be exercised. 

To stay resilient, Walker attends virtual church service every Sunday. Reading a spiritual word or watching motivational videos gives him a kick start to his mornings. Additionally, he maintains his physical fitness, to which he added, “l don’t stay in the house all the time. Instead, I get active”. While out and about, he adheres to the Center for Disease and Control guidelines. He has hand sanitizer in his car, workplace, and at home. He also limits social interactions through video calls with friends.

When asked if he had a message to share, Walker stated confidently, “stay vigilant, find ways to stay active, maintain a certain level of activity, and don’t get too complacent. Depression is real and can happen when you’re locked in one place; Reach out to people, and be mindful that COVID-19 is real; Take precautions for yourself and others because it’s not only about you. It’s one team, one fight.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

CoachHub: A Mobile Coach for Your Life

Personal trainers are good, but wouldn’t it be great if you could carry a life coach with you? Someone who would always be available to help you set goals, give you encouragement and answer your questions?

You can with CoachHub, a resilience tool from Military OneSource that gives you access to a personal online coach. It is one of several coaching solutions available to service members and their families. And unlike commercial life coaching programs, it’s free.

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• July 20 - Leave and Passes Update. A new DA Form 31 is posted on APD  In addition to updating leave and pay policies, this major revision allows the DODID in place of the SSN on all leave related actions, updates PDMRA, updates pass policy, and changes the term "permissive TDY" to "administrative absence" or "leave of absence." 

• July 21 - Submit Your Recommendation. If the Army Reserve were to build a mobile application (known as an app), what features would you most like to see included? Help us become better by taking a minute to complete this survey.

• July 22 - Next Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General. The U.S. Army announced this week that the U.S. Senate has confirmed Maj. Gen. Jody J. Daniels for promotion to lieutenant general and assignment in the dual role of Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Reserve Command.

• July 23 - Army Greens slated to reach all installations by mid-2021. Recruiters, drill sergeants, and initial entry trainees will be among the first to receive the new Army Green Service Uniform, as program officials look to distribute it to all installations by the middle of next fiscal year.

• July 24 - Army leaders pledge culture shift to eradicate sexual harassment, assault. The Army plans to take extra measures to combat sexual harassment and assault within its ranks, including changes to its promotion boards and competitions, senior leaders said Wednesday.

Army leaders pledge culture shift to eradicate sexual harassment, assault

• The Army plans to take extra measures to combat sexual harassment and assault within its ranks, including changes to its promotion boards and competitions, senior leaders said Wednesday.

• Starting next fiscal year, a special module on building trust will also be implemented into the Army’s “This is My Squad” initiative, an effort that focuses on unit cohesion, Grinston added.

Esper: DOD Involved in COVID-19 Fight 'From Day One'

• Since the COVID-19 crisis first threatened the United States earlier this year, the Defense Department has been at the forefront of America's fight against the pandemic, said Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper.

• "At one point, well over 45,000 guardsmen [were] out distributing supplies, setting up testing stations in nearly all 50 states and territories," he said. "[It's] just a remarkable effort by the active duty and mostly the Guard to do that. And now, of course, we're all in with regard to Operation Warp Speed and driving toward a therapeutic and a vaccine to get there."

We Want to Hear From You

• Take our survey to identify how you, Army Reserve Soldiers, Civilians, and Family Members, are currently receiving information from the Army Reserve. 

• We will use this survey to pinpoint the types of information you would like to receive from the Army Reserve and to make improvements in the delivery method.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT 
2LT Mathew Reed | 803rd Quartermaster Company

WO1 Kellen Brown is a supply systems technician (920B) for the 803rd Quartermaster Company in Opelika, Ala. On his civilian side, Brown serves his community as a paramedic with the Decatur Fire and Rescue in Decatur, Ala. 

As a first responder in the current COVID-19 environment, Brown has experienced many changes in the way he and his teammates operate while on the job. “We try to be personable and treat everyone with dignity. Unfortunately, this COVID-19 era has taken that away from us. We respond to medical emergencies with masks, gloves, safety glasses, and sometimes even gowns. Instead of entering people’s homes and beginning patient care where they are, we ask them to come outside and if they are immobile, we must move them to the ambulance before beginning care,” said Brown.

He and his teammates yearn for the time when they can get back to the type of patient care that they know and love. “We long to return to the atmosphere where we can get on the patient’s level and address them eye to eye.”

When Brown is not out saving lives or serving his country during regular and virtual battle assemblies, he loves spending time with his family to keep resilient. “My wife and two daughters, ages 6 and 7, are full of energy and renew my spirits every day,” Brown said. In addition to his family, Brown also finds solace in the weight room and from the occasional run.

Brown leaves two words of advice. “Keep your head up and weather the storm. This too shall pass.” and “Don’t fall into that 7-year E4 rut. Get your schools, get your points, and promote!”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) are looking for candidates with diverse backgrounds to join the team that’s Defending Today and Securing Tomorrow. CISA has multiple opportunities and hiring paths for different positions. Read on to learn about our opportunities and how to submit your resume for consideration.

Army Greens slated to reach all installations by mid-2021

• Recruiters, drill sergeants, and initial entry trainees will be among the first to receive the new Army Green Service Uniform, as program officials look to distribute it to all installations by the middle of next fiscal year.

• The uniform harkens back to the "greatest generation" of Soldiers who fought during World War II.

COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Installation Status Update

• Unrestricted travel is allowed for Service members or civilians between installations that have met the criteria of the Secretary of Defense memo on the conditions-based, phased approach to personnel movement and travel dated May 22, 2020. If either installation does not meet the criteria, an exemption or waiver would be required.

Assistance for higher education and professional certifications

• The Mrs. Patty Shinseki Spouse Scholarship Program is a need-based scholarship program established to assist Army Spouses in obtaining an undergraduate degree or similar professional certification. Applicants may receive assistance for up to four academic years of full-time study or eight academic years of part-time study. Applicants must re-apply each year. Spouses may apply year-round. There is no deadline to apply.

• The MG James Ursano Scholarship Program is a need-based scholarship program established to assist children of Army Soldiers in obtaining their first undergraduate degree. Applicants must reapply each year and may receive assistance for up to four academic years as long as they meet the eligibility criteria explained in the documents on the info page.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Master Sgt. Brittany Raimer | 336th Financial Management Support Unit

Sgt. 1st Class Reka Lassien is a financial management technician (36B) and serves as the Senior Financial Management Analyst for the 336th Financial Management Support Unit out of Lake Charles, La. In her civilian capacity, Lassien serves as a Senior Parole and Probation Officer for the Florida Department of Corrections.

Lassien fulfills an important role within the Internal Control Section and is a front line leader in the unit’s efforts to deter fraud, waste, and abuse through courtesy and operational reviews of financial operations. She evaluates the effectiveness of existing accountability controls, execution of existing policies, and ensures compliance with applicable regulations, legislative directives, and management controls.

As an essential worker and Reserve Soldier during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lassien manages to juggle both an increase in offender interaction and her leadership obligations via virtual battle assembly. “Because of the social distancing standards, most of my offenders do not come to me; I go to them. The department provided me with personal protective equipment like face masks, gloves, and sanitizer so that I can stay safe and keep others safe while conducting home checks,” stated Lassien.

An increased workload coupled with a new approach to training is stressful in any situation, especially during a crisis. “Remaining resilient through the pandemic has not been extremely challenging for me,” observed Lassien. “I know how stressful the pandemic is for everyone; so being out in the field, supervising my offenders, is my way to help maintain public safety. In doing so,” she added, “our communities and families can focus on staying healthy and stopping the spread of COVID.”

When Lassien is not answering the call to service and law enforcement, she prioritizes home life with her husband and three children. “Family is what keeps me going. I’ve used this pandemic as an opportunity to recalibrate what really matters: my family. And for that, I’m grateful.”

Maj. Gen. Jody J. Daniels confirmed as the next Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve Command

• The U.S. Army announced this week that the U.S. Senate has confirmed Maj. Gen. Jody J. Daniels for promotion to lieutenant general and assignment in the dual role of Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Reserve Command.

• Daniels is the first woman in the 112-year history of the Army Reserve to lead the community-based force of more than 200,000 Soldiers and Civilian employees with a geographic footprint that includes 50 states, five territories, and more than 30 countries.

Army 10-miler goes nationwide for the first time

• The 36th edition of the world’s third largest 10-mile road race, the Army Ten-Miler will be held as a virtual event Sunday, October 11 through Sunday, October 18.

U.S. Army Leaders were Live on Facebook

• Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy, U.S. Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville, and 16th Sergeant Major of the Army Michael A. Grinston discussed Diversity/Inclusion, Quality of Life, Army Combat Fitness Test, the new Army Green Service Uniform, and the impact of COVID-19 on the military.

• Watch the Facebook Live recording.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Kathia Del Rio | 196th Transportation Company

1st Lt. Frank Kordonis is a quartermaster officer (92A) serving as an executive officer for the 998th Quartermaster Company in North Charleston, S.C. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, especially under the stay-at-home orders, Kordonis and fellow leaders of the 998th QM Co have had to shift their focus to finding and creating effective training for Soldiers. 

“As a unit, we’ve been conducting successful virtual battle assemblies since April. As for myself, I’ve been working with the company commander and senior noncommissioned officers to formulate plans in order to continue training even though we can’t physically meet in person,” stated Kordonis. 

“I have also spent a lot of time developing training for the Soldiers and making sure communication is passed down to leaders so that in turn everything is passed down to Soldiers and they remain updated with everything that’s going on.” 

Like many other units, the 998th QM Co has also experienced increased communication and a sense of unity. “We’ve really come together since the start of the pandemic, especially since the unit has been activated for less than a year. However, Soldiers should remember to come together and rely on each other and leadership has to have a presence, otherwise, we won’t succeed,” added Kordonis. “Despite all of the challenges we’ve faced this year, we’ve all really come together as a unit.” 

When he isn’t working with the company commander, Kordonis likes to find different ways to provide training for Soldiers and for himself. “When I have spare time I like to catch up on regulations to help better train myself in order to better serve my Soldiers. I also like to exercise and spend time with family, relaxing and playing board games.”

Facebook Town Hall for the Army Team

• Army senior leaders will provide updates and the latest information on current COVID-19 operations July 22 from 2:15 to 3 p.m. EDT on the official U.S. Army Facebook page.

• Topics will include but not be limited to diversity/inclusion, ACFT implementation, PCS move updates, Army Green Service Uniform, impact of COVID-19 on training, and quality of life.

Submit Your Recommendation

• If the Army Reserve were to build a mobile application (known as an app), what features would you most like to see included?

• Help us become better by taking a minute to complete this survey.

Reinforcing Operations Security

• Today the Secretary for Defense released a memorandum for all Department of Defense personnel reinforcing Operations Security (OPSEC) and the importance of preventing unauthorized disclosures. 

• This memorandum emphasizes the importance of OPSEC in protecting our forces, ensuring our mission success, and implementing the National Defense Strategy. 

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
Spc. Kathia Del Rio | 196th Transportation Company

Spc. Kylie Miller serves as a culinary specialist (92G) for the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) and works in the restaurant industry in her civilian capacity. 

“I’ve been working non-stop at the restaurant and attending virtual college classes during COVID-19. It’s been difficult and we’ve experienced many changes during the past few months, but I’ve successfully worked through them,” mentioned Miller. 

While it has been tough for the food industry in general, Miller is proud of the restaurant she works at for managing to stay open during the pandemic, through which they were able to continue providing food for the local community. “It’s sad because a lot of smaller businesses have shut down. I’m thankful for the opportunity to keep working and provide meals for my community.”

When Miller isn’t helping feed her community, she believes that sticking to a routine is critical. “I wake up, do my homework, go to work, then come home and conduct self-care,” stated Miller. “Routines are important when times are uncertain. If I’m not working or doing homework, I read or go for a run.”

“Don’t stop living your life out of fear for the coronavirus. Yes, be considerate and follow health guidelines set in place, but continue to live your life and enjoy the process. We really don’t know how long this will last and when you look back you’ll have wasted away valuable time.”

Leave and Passes Update

• A new AR 600-8-10, dated 3 Jun 20 and effective on 16 Aug 20, is now posted on Army Publishing Directorate (APD).

• A new DA Form 31 is also posted on APD  In addition to updating leave and pay policies, this major revision allows the DODID in place of the SSN on all leave related actions, updates PDMRA, updates pass policy, and changes the term "permissive TDY" to "administrative absence" or "leave of absence." 

Public Display of Depiction of Flags in the United States Army

• The Army is committed to fostering an environment that promotes and practices diversity, equity, and inclusion and reflects the values of civility, respect, and dignity. DOD policy charges commanders with the authority and responsibility to take reasonable, necessary, and lawful measures to maintain law and order and to protect installation and reservation personnel and property. 

• The flags and depictions of flags we display must accord with the military imperatives of good order and discipline, unit cohesion and security, treating all people with dignity and respect, and rejecting divisive symbols. See the message for more information. 

Army senior leaders discuss lessons learned from COVID-19

• The Army is considering adjustments to its fiscal year 2022 budget request, as senior leaders look to invest in the service’s ability to fight against infectious diseases or other chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive threats.

• The rapid spread of COVID-19 across the globe has spurred many internal discussions concerning the Army’s future operating budget, said Secretary of the Army Ryan D. McCarthy Thursday during the NatSec 2020: Coronavirus and Beyond webinar.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT
By 2nd Lt. Mathew Reed | 803rd Quartermaster Company

Spc. Angil Bonawitz is an automated logistics specialist (92A) for the 803rd Quartermaster Company in Opelika, Ala., with the Dublin, Ga., detachment.

In a time and environment that is ripe with uncertainty, Bonawitz is a clear bright spot for the unit. He goes above and beyond his call of duty to mentor new and young soldiers not just during regular battle assemblies and virtual battle assemblies, but also in his personal time. 

To Bonawitz, being a mentor is like being a teacher. “All it takes to be a good teacher is to not mind taking extra time out of your day to help someone. For example, staying up late to ensure someone has a better understanding of a topic, or by hands-on training as opposed to just reading a PowerPoint.”

“Having virtual battle assemblies has slightly hindered me from being able to talk face to face and really get my hands dirty when trying to teach someone something,” said Bonawitz when asked how the current COVID-19 environment has impacted his ability to mentor. “In the meantime, I try to share weblogs or videos in which I go in-depth over topics of interest.”

In his spare time and to maintain resiliency, Bonawitz enjoys spending time with his family and four-year-old son while working in the yard or having movie nights. “It’s never a sign of weakness to ask for help,” stated Bonawitz after being asked if he had a message to share.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The National Weather Service (NWS) provides weather, water, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters and ocean areas, for the protection of life and property and the enhancement of the national economy.

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Jul. 13 - U.S. Army Reserve extends command board for colonel and lieutenant colonel to October 2020. Headquarters, Department of the Army has rescheduled the CY21 U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) command boards to from June 2020 to October 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 impact.  The Army Reserve is seeking to fill available command positions with highly capable and motivated leaders.

• Jul. 14 - Value of Life. Maj. Gen. A.C. Roper, deputy commanding general U.S. Army Reserve, talks about the value of life of every U.S. Army Reserve Soldier and the importance of reflectively listening to the concerns and needs of others.

• Jul. 15 - Obtaining and Renewing Military ID and Common Access Cards During COVID-19. Your military benefits, like access to commissaries and exchanges and health care, tie into your military identification card. You may be wondering how military ID, Common Access Card and Volunteer Logical Access Credentials issuance and renewal will work.

• Jul. 16 - Army offers college prep website amid pandemic. As high school students look to continue learning in a COVID-19 environment, the Army has provided an online option to help students prepare for college.

• Jul. 17 - Soldiers Describe Initial COVID-19 Fight. It's an invisible enemy. At least that's how soldiers felt about COVID-19 after their six-week stint at the overburdened University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey, where they said it was more like a war zone.

Soldiers Describe Initial COVID-19 Fight

• It's an invisible enemy. At least that's how soldiers felt about COVID-19 after their six-week stint at the overburdened University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey, where they said it was more like a war zone.

• They worked countless hours to assist beleaguered civilian doctors and nurses — from the frantic hallways in overcrowded hospitals to quiet moments at a patient's bedside, holding their hand as they passed away alone, they said.

Defense Official Discusses National Defense in the Age of COVID-19

• Ellen M. Lord, undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, joins Roger Zakheim, director of the Ronald Reagan Institute, for a virtual fireside chat to discuss U.S. defense policy in the era of COVID-19, the national security innovation base and how a flat budget will affect the Pentagon, July 16, 2020. This event is an extension of programming from the Reagan National Defense Forum.

Cruise ship No Sail Order extended through September 2020

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced today the extension of a No Sail Order for cruise ships through September 30, 2020. This order continues to suspend passenger operations on cruise ships with the capacity to carry at least 250 passengers in waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction.

• CDC supports the June 19th decision by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)external icon to extend voluntarily the suspension of operations for passenger cruise ship travel until September 15, 2020. In line with CLIA’s announcement of voluntary suspension of operation by its member companies, CDC has extended its No Sail Order to ensure that passenger operations on cruise ships do not resume prematurely.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Pfc. Jasnelly Colon serves as a culinary specialist (92G) for the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary). In her civilian capacity, Colon is a proud counselor for middle school students and a full-time student herself.  

Referring to herself as a workaholic, Colon admits that COVID-19 has drastically changed her life. “I love to work! Prior to the pandemic, I worked two to three jobs and remained a full-time student. I love to have my own money and to be able to help my family whenever I can. However, once the coronavirus broke out, I had to leave one of my jobs indefinitely and am now finding myself trying to keep busy,” mentioned Colon.

Aside from remaining a Soldier and attending virtual battle assembly (VBA), Colon has found comfort in interacting with her students via online methods during the school's summer program. “I’ve been planning fun activities for students to do online through our summer camp, which was set in place because of COVID-19. We want the students to know that we are still here for them and just because it’s summer doesn’t mean they can’t communicate with us and continue to learn and grow,” added Colon. 

When she isn’t working with her students or attending VBA, Colon spends her time studying for school. She plans to graduate with a culinary degree debt-free by using her Army benefits. 

Colon expressed the importance of keeping “your mind and body active at all times. Everything deteriorates over time when you’re at home doing nothing, so stay active. Wear your masks and keep cleanliness mindful! The more we do for this the sooner we will get back to some sense of normalcy.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

FY21 Credentialing Assistance Requests:

Beginning 17 Aug 2020, Soldiers can start submitting CA requests for FY21 courses or exams that start on or after 7 Oct 2020. Soldiers must submit FY21 requests in ArmyIgnitED at least 30 business days prior to the start date of the course or exam.

Any FY21 CA request submitted to GoArmyEd or submitted with a training start date earlier than 7 Oct 2020 will be rejected.

Top DOD Officials to Hold Virtual Town Hall Meeting

• Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper; Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Ramón "CZ" Colón-López will hold a virtual global town hall meeting at the Pentagon to answer questions from service members, Defense Department civilians and family members about topics including diversity and inclusion in DOD, COVID-19, developments in the South China Sea and more July 17, 2020, at 1 p.m. EDT.

Army Reserve unit continues shaping and training Soldiers in midst of COVID-19

• Despite COVID-19's global impact, Soldier readiness and training goes on. Training sites must find alternate means to ensure instruction is executed while exercising safety precautions to safeguard Soldiers' well-being and the instructors who provide military education.

• The Regional Training Site – Maintenance (RTS-M) Hood, 3rd Brigade (Ordnance), 94th Training Division-Force Sustainment (TD-FS), conducted a Wheeled Vehicle Recovery course at Fort Hood, Texas, held May 6-22, 2020.

Army offers college prep website amid pandemic

• As high school students look to continue learning in a COVID-19 environment, the Army has provided an online option to help students prepare for college.

• Whether or not a school chooses in-class or online learning, students can prepare for college using the Army’s college readiness website, March2Success, to augment their learning and study for entrance exams.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Staff Sgt. Rakeitta Wooden serves as an automated logistical specialist (92A) for the 460th Quartermaster Company in Suffolk, Va. 

As an automated logistical specialist, Wooden is in charge of repair parts and other critical supplies, ensuring that the readiness of vehicles and equipment is up to date. 

According to Wooden, COVID-19 has brought a lot of challenges and changes to the unit but they’ve managed to move forward and thrive despite everything. “We’ve all shifted to teleworking and virtual battle assemblies (VBAs) since the start of the pandemic and we’ve also incorporated testing and assignments to guarantee participation,” stated Wooden. 

However, it’s not all work for Wooden. “Like with anything, keeping a schedule and having some sort of structure is important. In the beginning, it was ‘fun’ because we all got to stay home but now that it’s been a few weeks, we’ve got to learn to get a schedule going.” 

“Another difficult challenge is to learn how to ‘get off work’. When working from the office, one has a set time for when to leave work. However, when working from home, it’s quite difficult to stop working to spend time with the family. Aside from that, eating healthy instead of snacking can also be a challenge,” added Wooden. 

When asked for any advice, Wooden stated “Don’t think of the situation as being stuck at home; Instead think of it as being safe at home. It's important to take this pandemic seriously, not just for yourself but for others. I think if we all took this more seriously we would see the numbers decline and we could get back to a sense of normality. Also, if you don’t feel 100%, don’t be afraid to call off from work to protect yourself and others.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Continuous Process Improvement Office’s core functions include project portfolio management, oversight of CPI LSS execution (strategy, policy, and certification), end-to-end process redesign and analysis, and project management. We conduct organizational assessments, LSS training and classroom management, and professional development (Mobile Training Teams and Just-In-Time mentorship). CPIO has a Memorandum of Agreement with Forces Command (FORSCOM) to serve as the LSS Certification Authority for Additional Skills Identifiers (ASI) 1X and 1Y. We sync with HQDA Office of Business Transformation CPI Program Management for governance, ASI 1Z, and LSS Excellence Awards.

CDC calls on Americans to wear masks to prevent COVID-19 spread

• Americans are increasingly adopting the use of cloth face masks to slow the spread of COVID-19, and the latest science may convince even more to do so.

• In an editorial published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), CDC reviewed the latest science and affirms that cloth face coverings are a critical tool in the fight against COVID-19 that could reduce the spread of the disease, particularly when used universally within communities. There is increasing evidence that cloth face coverings help prevent people who have COVID-19 from spreading the virus to others.

Obtaining and Renewing Military ID and Common Access Cards During COVID-19

• Your military benefits, like access to commissaries and exchanges and health care, tie into your military identification card. You may be wondering how military ID, Common Access Card and Volunteer Logical Access Credentials issuance and renewal will work.

• Learn about the temporary updates (in place through Sept. 30, 2020) that change issuance and renewal processes during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Army Reserve VLOG: In the fight against COVID-19

• Army Reserve Urban Augmentation Medical Task Force members chronicle their experiences on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19. These Soldiers use their medical knowledge to support hospitals in the hardest hit areas of the United States.

• For more information about COVID-19, UAMTFs and Army Reserve guidance, go to https://www.usar.army.mil/COVID19/.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Spc. Wilfredo Robles serves as a culinary specialist (92G), assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary). In his civilian capacity, Robles serves as a security officer. 

“COVID-19 has been difficult, but after a few weeks and some tough decisions, I thankfully found myself in a comfortable position.” Before the start of the pandemic, Robles was a passionate corrections officer. However, once the coronavirus broke out, the prison he worked at quickly became understaffed and overworked. “I chose to quit my job and become a security officer,” stated Robles. 

“Now, as a security officer, I work alongside police officers by patrolling the streets and really getting to know the local community. Switching over has helped me a lot, mentally and physically, and I feel like I’m doing more for the community.” 

When Robles isn’t working or attending a virtual battle assembly, he remains resilient by spending time with his family and significant other. He also credits his new career as a great contributor to his high level of motivation. “Seeing the lives that are directly impacted by our work every day makes me more appreciative of what I have.” Aside from his career and support system, Robles is a firm believer in physical fitness. “I run every day and have come up with a workout routine which I do indoors,” added Robles. 

“No matter what happens, we must stay strong, and if you find yourself needing help, always remember that you have family and friends to count on. Pets count too! We’re in this together, so we have to work together.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Double Eagle App keeps Army Reserve leaders, Soldiers, Family members, and Department of the Army Civilians up to date on information about the Army Reserve.

Why You Should Download the Double Eagle App:

• Leaderbook - Leaders will be able to manage information, message and send out alerts based on subordinate Soldier data.

• Soldiers will be able to utilize the “Resources” capability to access resources including self-help, mental health, veteran assistance POCs, and training reference information.

• Soldiers will be able to access discussion boards based on general staff functions (G-staffs), Major Commands, and Soldier Support systems (Family Programs, Suicide Prevention, SHARP) will provide professional discussion, push information including standards, training guidance, and resources.

Value of Life

• Maj. Gen. A.C. Roper, deputy commanding general U.S. Army Reserve, talks about the value of life of every U.S. Army Reserve Soldier and the importance of reflectively listening to the concerns and needs of others.

Testing for COVID-19

• Two kinds of tests are available for COVID-19: viral tests and antibody tests.

• A viral test tells you if you have a current infection. 

• An antibody test might tell you if you had a past infection. An antibody test might not show if you have a current infection because it can take 1–3 weeks after infection for your body to make antibodies. Having antibodies to the virus that causes COVID-19 might provide protection from getting infected with the virus again. If it does, we do not know how much protection the antibodies might provide or how long this protection might last.

Another ‘first’ for the Army during recruiting push

• The U.S. Army has accomplished a lot of ‘firsts’ in its storied history, and its most recent virtual recruiting campaign referred to as “Army National Hiring Days” is another shining example of ingenuity and adaption to overcoming modern obstacles.

• The obstacle this time? A pandemic that stymied traditional recruiting methods, which put the Army behind pace of reaching its end-strength goal for the year of 485,000 Soldiers.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Sgt. 1st class Fortune Ortiz is an Active Guard Reserve senior truck master (88M40) for the 206th Transportation Company in Opelika, Ala.

Ortiz is currently the operations noncommissioned officer for 206th TC Co and is in charge of coordination for the Nationwide Move mission.

“We understand that COVID-19 measures are being enforced throughout localities and traveling through red states isn’t simple,” mentioned Ortiz, about the challenges in executing the mission during the pandemic. “We are all constantly briefed on guidelines and safety measures applicable to the area we find ourselves in.” 

Aside from abiding by strict safety measures and precautions, Ortiz also reported daily temperature checks accompanied with appropriate personal protective equipment to accomplish the mission. “If a Soldier reports feeling odd, sickly, or anything along those lines, they are removed from the mission. Soldiers who tested positive before mission execution weren’t allowed to participate.” 

When he isn’t coordinating missions and updating his Soldiers on local preventative measures and guidelines, Ortiz keeps himself resilient and motivated by remembering that his unit and Soldiers rely on him for accurate data and procedures so that tasks can be accomplished. “I love to work in general and I believe that staying busy is my way of staying resilient through all this,” added Ortiz. 

“Reach out to your leaders and Soldiers and talk to them. Get to know each other and keep a lookout for distress signals. These are tough times and it’s nice to have someone to talk to.”

U.S. Army Reserve extends command board for colonel and lieutenant colonel to October 2020

• Headquarters, Department of the Army has rescheduled the CY21 U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) command boards to from June 2020 to October 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 impact.  The Army Reserve is seeking to fill available command positions with highly capable and motivated leaders.

Blood donor restrictions relax, thousands now eligible to save lives

• The Armed Services Blood Program is scheduled to implement sweeping changes to blood donor eligibility July 13 that will allow thousands more to donate to the Dept. of Defense’s own blood program.

U.S. Army Voluntary Recall Program

• The U.S Army Voluntary Recall Program manages the recall of retirees to active duty. These voluntary recalls are a part of the Army’s plan for a mass mobilization. There are two population groups available to the Army for recall:

• Individual Ready Reserve (IRR): consists of trained Soldiers who have previously served in the Active component or Selected Reserve, It is composed primarily of Soldiers who need to fulfill their Military Service Obligation.

• Retired Soldiers: are those who have completed their service obligation and are either receiving a retired annuity or are considered a gray-area retiree - Soldiers retired from the Selected Reserve who are not yet eligible to draw a retirement annuity.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Spc. Nancy Arriola serves as a culinary specialist for the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) and is a pharmacy technician in her civilian capacity.

As an essential employee, Arriola has been working non-stop since the start of COVID-19, providing critical medication for those in need. “I’m in charge of scheduling shipments of patient medications,” stated Arriola. 

When she isn’t physically at work or attending a virtual battle assembly, Arriola spends time with family at home. 

“We remain resilient by keeping in mind that there is always something to do and that if I don’t go to work, people could suffer without their medications. It’s been helpful to know that my role is critical. Other than that, I take comfort in going on afternoon walks to clear my head and get ready for the next workday,” added Ariolla. 

“Try to adapt to what our world is coming to. If we can work together we will most definitely get through this. Keep yourself and those around you safe by continuing to wear personal protective equipment even if it’s uncomfortable because if that’s what we have to do to get better, then that’s what must be done.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

What is Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR)? 

ESGR, a Department of Defense program, was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment.

​Point of Contact: Kevin Williams at (954) 225-0003 or msgwilliams24@gmail.com

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Jul. 6 - 2020 Back-to-School Brigade. Operation Homefront is once again honored to be able to provide school supplies to our military families. Register today. A complete list of locations can be found on the event page.

• Jul. 7 - 143d ESC G6 Announcement: Microsoft Teams CVR Account Issues. If you do not have a CVR account (first.last.mil@cvr.mil) or you are having issues accessing your CVR account such as forgotten passwords, registration e-mail and account enablement, please contact the Army Enterprise Service Desk (AESD) at 866-335-2769 Option 2 for CVR support.

• Jul. 8 - This is My Squad App Development Squad Application Questionnaire. The Sergeant Major of the Army needs 15 NCOs in the ranks of SSG and SFC to serve as the development Squad to create the This is My Squad mobile app. 

• Jul. 9 - Army training gets portable. In response, the Army Training Management Directorate has enabled access to training information directly from the Army Training Network (ATN) website through the Army's Digital Job Book and Small Unit Leader Tool at https://atn.army.mil/digital-job-book. 

• Jul. 10 - Army Reserve DCG: Sexual harassment, assault break bonds of trust and unit cohesion at every level. Maj. Gen. A.C. Roper, deputy commanding general of the United States Army Reserve, reinforces what is expected of Soldiers in America's Army Reserve: "You are relied upon to demonstrate what right looks like every day, in communities across the nation. This month, as we conduct a (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response & Prevention) stand down across the entire Army Reserve, know that we are working together to drive a culture change that ensures every member of this team feels heard. One of the greatest issues that persist in this Army, as it does in our larger society, is sexual harassment and assault. Sexual harassment and assault breaks the bonds of trust and unit cohesion at every level.”

Army Reserve DCG: Sexual harassment, assault break bonds of trust and unit cohesion at every level

• Maj. Gen. A.C. Roper, deputy commanding general of the United States Army Reserve, reinforces what is expected of Soldiers in America's Army Reserve: "You are relied upon to demonstrate what right looks like every day, in communities across the nation. This month, as we conduct a (Sexual Harassment/Assault Response & Prevention) stand down across the entire Army Reserve, know that we are working together to drive a culture change that ensures every member of this team feels heard. One of the greatest issues that persist in this Army, as it does in our larger society, is sexual harassment and assault. Sexual harassment and assault breaks the bonds of trust and unit cohesion at every level.”

VA offers debt relief to Veterans through year’s end

• The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today announced its commitment to extend debt relief to Veterans adversely impacted by COVID-19 to the end of 2020 by suspending certain debt collection actions.

Reserve Employment Partnership Program 

• The Reserve Component Division at Corporate America Supports You (CASY) has a team of trained Career Specialists available to connect USAR job seekers to their Employment Partners. 

• CASY realizes some of the unique employment obstacles facing Reserve Soldiers and their families.They are here to assist in areas such as: resume assessment and development, interview preparation, and LinkedIn optimization. 

• Their services are at NO COST to our job seekers.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Spc. Shane Lennon serves as a unit supply specialist (92Y) for the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), in Orlando, Fla. 

While COVID-19 hasn’t altered daily routines at the 143d ESC supply warehouse, Lennon believes that the preventative measures set in place have helped prevent further spread of the coronavirus. “It’s normally a small group of us here, so we’ve got the whole social distancing thing handled.” 

“Going out, in general, has changed throughout the pandemic... you can tell a lot of people are fearful of that, and sometimes people would rather not come to work. However, we’re still carrying on with the mission and doing what needs to be accomplished,” added Lennon. 

When asked what types of missions and tasks, Lennon shared, “We’ve had a lot of successes since the start of COVID-19. While practicing safe social distancing and safety measures, we’ve managed to complete all of our smaller missions and have gotten all of our gas masks organized. We’ve also maintained proper communication within the unit, and everyone seems to be content with virtual battle assembly.”

When Lennon isn’t working, he likes to mentor and inspire future Soldiers. Thankful for the level of motivation the U.S. Army Reserve has instilled in him, Lennon believes that “If you want to try it, go for it! It’s the only organization in the world where you can find so many people with this level of diversity and different backgrounds. So, by all means, go for it.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Army's SHARP Program

• Is an integrated, proactive effort by the Army to end sexual harassment and sexual assault within its ranks

• Permeates the Army structure from the Pentagon down to the individual Soldier level

• Has full-time staff at brigade level

• Promotes cultural change across the Army with a vision toward a culture of discipline and respect in which Soldiers intervene in sexual harassment and sexual assault to protect one another

• Includes a comprehensive effort to educate leaders and Soldiers about sexual harassment and sexual assault

• Employs a concrete training program that teaches Soldiers to be alert to serial offender tactics, to intervene to stop incidents and disrupt offenders, and where and how to seek help

• Provides commanders with the essential resources, education and training they need to succeed in bringing an end to sexual harassment and sexual assault in the Army

102 Years of Service

• Today marks the 102nd anniversary of the Warrant Officer Cohort.

• The official birthday of the U.S. Army Warrant Officer Corps is July 9, 1918, when an act of congress established the Army Mine Planter Service as part of the Coast Artillery Corps.

• Join the Warrant Officer Corps!

Army training gets portable - Digital Job Book and Small Unit Leader Tool now available via PCs and handheld devices

• As training requirements evolve, Soldiers and leaders are required to manage training information from any location regardless of mission. 

• In response, the Army Training Management Directorate has enabled access to training information directly from the Army Training Network (ATN) website through the Army's Digital Job Book and Small Unit Leader Tool at https://atn.army.mil/digital-job-book. 

• Soldiers and leaders can now easily access training records using a username and password on their personal computers and smart devices. Previously these two tools were only available via Army Knowledge Online (AKO) on government computers with Common Access Card (CAC) authentication.

Voting in the Military

• Register and request a ballot. Take the first step in the voting process - requesting an absentee ballot with the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) at FVAP.gov.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

2nd Lt. Dawn Jessen is a transportation officer (88A) and serves as platoon leader and operations officer for the 196th Transportation Company - Palletized Load System (PLS). 

When COVID-19 first started, Jessen was on active duty orders for training in Ft. Lee, Va. However, Jessen experienced first hand what it was like to go from active duty orders to not having a career to working many jobs to stay afloat. Thankfully, she still had the U.S. Army Reserve as a form of income, and virtual battle assembly was recurring for Soldiers. 

As the operations officer in charge, Jessen takes part in many conference calls due to constant changes in policies and guidance in the evolving COVID-19 environment. She is responsible for disseminating the information to all 196th TC Co Soldiers.

Outside of her Reserve duties, Jessen is preparing for her next big career change which thankfully involves accepting a position for a multinational technology company in Florida. 

In keeping resilient, Jessen is spending quality time with her family and working on home projects. “My parents are older so going out is limited for them. They need a lot done around the house and I love working on home projects so I am more than happy to help around our property. Anything they need to be done around the house I take care of,” Jessen shared. 

While adapting to changes brought on by the pandemic hasn’t necessarily been easy for everyone, Jessen mentioned the rich family history they share when it comes to serving in the military, “my family is full of military service members and we’re good with adapting to new environments.”

Jessen is a prior service Marine and combat veteran. Both of her parents are retired Army Warrant Officers and through their advice and guidance, Jessen commissioned as a U.S. Army Reserve Officer. “The Marine Corps engrains in you three values: Honor, Courage, and Commitment. You honor your family and your country by not going out and putting people in danger by breaking the rules and regulations set in place for COVID-19. You show commitment to the cause. Stay committed to the Army through it all by continuing to do the work you would normally do before the pandemic. It’s easy to stay motivated when you’re being watched but when you’re at home, it’s different because no one is watching. Finally, courage. For me, as far as becoming an officer, it was having the courage to swear an oath to the Constitution again; Signing up again. It is the courage to stand up for what’s right in the country right now,” stated Jessen.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Veterans Benefit Administration provides information needed to begin to file for VA benefits such as compensation, home loans, education, life insurance, pensions, etc.

COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Donation

• Have you recovered from COVID-19, or tested positive for antibodies? Consider donating convalescent plasma. 

• Find out where to donate blood and convalescent plasma.

This is My Squad App Development Squad Application Questionnaire

• The Sergeant Major of the Army needs 15 NCOs in the ranks of SSG and SFC to serve as the development Squad to create the This is My Squad mobile app. 

• This is My Squad is an Army initiative to equip leaders with the education and technological tools necessary for a Squad Leader. 

• Applicant prerequisites: SSG and SFC that have or are currently serving as a Squad or Section Leader. Finalists will interview with the "This Is My Squad" working group.

Military Hire Briefing

• Military Hire is teaming up with their partners to bring employers and veteran job seekers practical tips for navigating 2020! 

• Register now.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

1st Lt. Alexa Gannon is a health services officer (70B) and serves as a health operations officer for the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) surgeon office in Orlando, Fla. 

Currently, Gannon is a Ph.D. student at the University of South Florida, studying infectious diseases and was recently put on active duty orders with the 143d ESC to help with the commands COVID-19 response. 

As a member of the 143d ESC planning staff, Gannon helps in researching and interpreting current local conditions data and risk mitigation protocols. 

When it comes to her academic and work environments, Gannon reported changes in class structure, which shifted from the traditional curriculum to focusing on COVID-19 and the ongoing pandemic. “We’ve shifted focus to vaccines and applied immunology with a heavy focus on COVID-19 as well as the human immune system and the science behind potential vaccines,” stated Gannon. 

While COVID-19 has undoubtedly changed many lives around the globe, Gannon can’t ignore the timing of this ‘perfect storm’ going on, to mention “this has been a very interesting time for me in general because of my professional interests,” referring to her studies in infectious diseases. “However, one of my favorite things to remind people is that this isn’t our first rodeo. There have been at least four similar outbreaks since the 1900s like Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and we’ve come out fine.” 

When she isn’t working, Gannon loves to rock climb and often finds herself at indoor rock climbing gyms around North Florida. “I’m really impressed with the way the gyms have handled COVID-19 measures. Not only do they require reservations, but they also require masks and they limit the number of people per rock wall. They’ve really made it as safe as possible,” mentioned Gannon. 

When asked for advice on the current pandemic, Gannon immediately suggested everyone wear a mask whenever they go out. “Wearing a mask protects other people from you; Follow guidelines set in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and stay up to date on them. People should keep in mind that COVID-19 is going to remain a big threat until an effective vaccine has been mass-produced and widely distributed. However, we will eventually make it through to the other side.”

143d ESC G6 Announcement: Microsoft Teams CVR Account Issues

• If you do not have a CVR account (first.last.mil@cvr.mil) or you are having issues accessing your CVR account such as forgotten passwords, registration e-mail and account enablement, please contact the Army Enterprise Service Desk (AESD) at 866-335-2769 Option 2 for CVR support.

• This account is associated with your DoD email (.mil).  If you attempt to register with your  personal account (yahoo, gmail, AOL, etc) you will more than likely be logged in as a guest and will not be able to access all the resources available to a properly registered user.  

• There is also a Microsoft Teams CVR app for your smartphone that you can load and access the same account and information from your phone.

Urgent Acquisition Effort Provides Safe COVID-19 Patient Transport in 95 Days

• The Air Force, Air Mobility Command and U.S. Transportation Command have a new capability to bring large numbers of COVID-19 patients home via airlift without putting associated flight crews at risk — and the solution arrived quicker than expected.

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program

• Explore your career options and address any training needs you may have. 

• VR&E offers support and services tracks to help you find and keep a job, and live as independently as possible. 

• Explore the different tracks including the Reemployment track, Rapid Access to Employment track, Self-Employment track, Employment Through Long-Term Services track, and the Independent Living track.

WELCOME BACK

After months of stay-at-home orders and travel restrictions throughout the nation under COVID-19 conditions, 143d ESC Soldiers are now slowly returning to duty for annual training, major training exercises and battle assemblies. Through thorough risk assessments by analyzing current Health Protection Condition levels and complying with Readiness Division's reopening guidance, select units throughout the 143d ESC are commencing in-person training. As a way to kick-off this summers training season, members of the 143d ESC wanted to send their welcome back greetings to the field. 

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The Military Order of the Purple Heart is an organization made up of purple heart recipients who wish to give back to veterans and military families. 

MOPH provides numerous services such as scholarship programs, volunteer programs, homeless veteran programs and much more.

Army Reserve Sustainment Command hosts first virtual Strong Bonds event amidst COVID-19 restrictions

• The coronavirus is changing how we conduct our daily lives and how the Army Reserve conducts their marriage and relationship training.

• The Army Reserve Sustainment Command Chaplain Section is ensuring Soldiers’ spiritual and relationship needs are met amidst social distancing, face masks and travel restrictions.

Operation Purple at Home

• Summer camp looks a little different this year, but that doesn’t stop the fun! Join National Military Family Association's Operation Purple at Home this week for a free, virtual camp experience designed just for military families. 

2020 Back-to-School Brigade

• Operation Homefront is once again honored to be able to provide school supplies to our military families. 

• Register today. A complete list of locations can be found on the event page.

1st Lt. Riki Riordan is a signal officer (25A) and serves as a platoon leader for the 492nd Signal Company in Knightdale, N.C. 

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Jun. 29 - U.S. Army Reserve Change of Responsibility (Virtual Ceremony). Watch the virtual Change of Responsibility ceremony between Command Sgt. Maj. Ted Copeland (outgoing) and Command Sgt. Maj. Andrew Lombardo (incoming), as the 14th command sergeant major of the U.S. Army Reserve.

• Jun. 30 - LTG Charles D. Luckey retired after over 43 years of service. Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, United States Army Reserve Command, will retire this summer from the Army after over 43 years of service to the nation.

• Jul. 1 - Video: DOD Officials Brief Reporters on Coronavirus Response. Thomas McCaffery, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs; Lernes Hebert, deputy assistant secretary of defense for military personnel policy; and Thomas Muir, the director of Washington Headquarters Services, briefed reporters at the Pentagon on the department’s COVID-19 response efforts.

• Jul. 2 - DOD Recognition for Qualifying COVID-19 Operations and Activities. Recently, the department approved the award of the Armed Forces Service Medal and Humanitarian Service Medal to recognize service members for their qualifying participation in COVID-19 operations or activities.  Both Active and Reserve Component members are eligible for such recognition.

• Jul. 3 - 143d ESC Independence Day 2020 Message. Brig. Gen. Pamela McGaha, commanding general, 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), sends her Independence Day 2020 message to the field.

143d ESC Independence Day 2020 Message

• Brig. Gen. Pamela McGaha, commanding general, 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), sends her Independence Day 2020 message to the field.

DOD, Base Officials Closely Monitoring COVID-19 Situation

• Defense and local military officials are closely watching the COVID-19 situation and will make adjustments as needed, Defense Department officials told reporters at a Pentagon news conference.

• The department stands ready to advise local commanders, but commanders must adhere to clear metrics in relaxing controls: a 14-day downward trend for flu-like and COVID-like symptoms, and a 14-day downward trend for new cases, Thomas Muir, the director of Washington Headquarters Services, said.

Despite pandemic, Army's R2 continues to foster culture of trust

• Ready and Resilient, or R2, is the Army's strategy for strengthening individual and unit Personal Readiness and fostering a culture of trust, according to the Army Resilience Directorate. 

• R2 provides training and resources to the Army Family to enhance resilience and optimize performance. R2 reinforces the Army Values, beliefs and attitudes, and educates members of the Army team about the importance of building connections with each other, taking care of one another and being there to support fellow Soldiers.

Double Eagle 6: Leadership through the lens of a communicator

• Watching Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey lead is a master class in the dual nature of leadership: half commander and half service to those he leads.

• “My Soldiers don't work for me. I work for them,” Luckey told a crowd of executives at Warner Bros. Studios in California when asked about his leadership style. “Leading with love means setting up and supporting your subordinates for success.”

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Sgt. 1st class Kristina Muñoz serves as a motor transport operator (88M) for the 332nd Transportation Battalion in Tampa, Fla. 

Muñoz's primary role during COVID-19 is to maintain a high level of health and welfare checks for 78 Soldiers. Muñoz also disseminates information regarding changes with training and virtual battle assembly and is in charge of making sure Soldiers are up to date on health readiness. 

Changes to Muñoz's routine include challenges in trying to maintain readiness while facilities being closed. "First, we were challenged with closures when the first round of the coronavirus struck, and now we are being rechallenged with closures due to another wave of outbreaks. However, as opposed to focusing on collective training as we did in round one, now we are focusing more on individual readiness," mentioned Muñoz. 

When she isn't hard at work, making sure Soldiers are taken care of and are compliant to their health readiness, Muñoz likes to conduct self-care. "I like to work out and spend time with my family. My husband and I have connected on a different level due to being at home for COVID-19, and it has definitely brought us closer together." As a wife and mother of five kids, Muñoz also loves to host a family movie night by gathering everyone outside to watch a movie on the projector screen as an excellent way to get everyone out in a safe manner.

"My advice during the COVID-19 pandemic would be to stay safe. Keep being situationally aware at all times, and don't let your guard down because now is not the time to get comfortable. We need to always assume the worst and don't assume everyone is following health and safety guidelines and precautions. Just because you know someone personally doesn't mean they care about your health and remember that just because something doesn't affect you doesn't mean it won't affect someone else."

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Women Veterans Call Center provides a single avenue for women veterans to get the help they need. 

Have questions about: 

• Your veteran status

• GI Bill

• VA Benefits

• Health care

Contact your local women veterans call center or find a VA hospital near you.  

DOD Recognition for Qualifying COVID-19 Operations and Activities

• Recently, the department approved the award of the Armed Forces Service Medal and Humanitarian Service Medal to recognize service members for their qualifying participation in COVID-19 operations or activities.  Both Active and Reserve Component members are eligible for such recognition. 

• The period of award for both medals is from Jan.31, 2020, to a future “to be determined” termination date.

Army's virtual recruiting event eyes diverse talent

• The Army National Hiring Days, an ambitious three-day hiring windfall looking to draw more than 10,000 recruits, launched Tuesday, Jul. 30. 

• The first ever event is designed to redress end-strength setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic after much of the Army paused earlier this year, said Gen. Paul E. Funk II, the commanding officer of the Army Training and Doctrine Command.

COVID-19 and Behavioral Health

• COVID-19 continues to impact each of us in many ways. It is important during stressful times such as these to remember our core Army values, stay connected with our Army family, and utilize strategies and resources to help us through these difficult times.

• If you become overwhelmed and are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK). 

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Capt. Reinaldo Sanchez serves as an information system officer at the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla. Sanchez shared how his work environment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Video: DOD Officials Brief Reporters on Coronavirus Response

• Thomas McCaffery, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs; Lernes Hebert, deputy assistant secretary of defense for military personnel policy; and Thomas Muir, the director of Washington Headquarters Services, briefed reporters at the Pentagon on the department’s COVID-19 response efforts.

Resources for Voters

• The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) is tracking the impact of the coronavirus pandemic 2019 (COVID-19) on Service members, their eligible family members, and U.S. citizens abroad, when voting absentee during the remainder of the 2020 election cycle.

• Due to the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic occurring around the globe, we recommend that you contact your Military Post Office or local post offices regarding possible delivery delays before mailing your voted ballot. Check the ballot return options in your state.

U.S. Army Reserve command sergeant major addresses ACFT 2.0   

• Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Lombardo, U.S. Army Reserve Command, speaks about the changes and implementation of the new ACFT 2.0. 

• COVID19 has had an enormous impact on our nation and on our Soldiers. The ACFT will strengthen our fitness culture, reduce injuries, and increase Army readiness.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

2nd. Lt. Brian Majeske is an ordnance officer (91A) serving as a platoon leader for the 802nd Ordnance Company in Gainesville, Ga. 

Like many Soldiers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Majeske participated in virtual battle assemblies, fostered platoon training, and instructed a unit training.

"We've conducted four consecutive virtual battle assemblies and had to adapt to working remotely. Some major changes have included numerous conference calls as well as increased communication amongst the Soldiers and unit personnel," stated Majeske. 

In addition to Majeske's unit responsibilities, he also makes a great effort to continue wearing personal protective equipment and staying compliant with safety requirements. An example Majekse shared is how he undergoes temperature checks whenever he goes to his local gym. 

"I remain resilient by constantly communicating with the unit and the Soldiers, and by conducting physical fitness. Just because the gym is closed doesn't mean you can't get a workout in. Go outside, go to the track, use some outdoor pull-up bars because remaining physically fit is important when it comes to resiliency," added Majeske.

LTG Charles D. Luckey retiring after over 43 years of service

• Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, United States Army Reserve Command, will retire this summer from the Army after over 43 years of service to the nation.

• Relinquishment of Command Ceremony for Lt. Gen. Luckey, the outgoing commanding general and Chief of U.S. Army Reserve, broadcast live from Fort Bragg, N.C.

Army National Hiring Days

• Today, Jun. 30, the U.S. Army kicked off its first nationwide virtual hiring campaign with a goal of recruiting 10,000 new Soldiers to serve in 150 different occupations. Army National Hiring Days is an all-Army effort to inspire individuals across the nation to “Join Us.”

We Want to Hear From You

• Take our survey to identify how you, Army Reserve Soldiers, Civilians, and Family Members, are currently receiving information from the Army Reserve. 

• We will use this survey to pinpoint the types of information you would like to receive from the Army Reserve and to make improvements in the delivery method.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Sgt. Christopher Buchanan serves as a human resources specialist (42A) for the 991st Transportation Company in Salisbury, N.C. 

Buchanan recently transferred from the 81st Readiness Division out of Fort Jackson, S.C., where he worked with the Yellow Ribbon Program. Before the start of COVID-19, Buchanan recalls having the privilege of speaking directly to Soldiers and making an impact. However, due to the pandemic, Buchanan and the Yellow Ribbon team had to take to the virtual world to make a difference and help Soldiers. Still, they found it to be increasingly difficult without the face-to-face connections. 

With the 991st TC Co, Buchanan is in charge of making sure Soldiers are self-governing and maintaining health readiness. “COVID-19 has stressed the importance of personal readiness. Soldiers have to count on themselves and have the integrity to make it to scheduled appointments,” Buchanan shared. 

When he isn’t following up on Soldiers and helping maintain unit readiness, Buchanan enjoys cleaning his car outside. “I love washing my car because it gives me an excuse to go outside. Waxing, detailing, cleaning the windows, etc. There are countless benefits to being outside, and it’s nice to see more people doing that as a result of the pandemic.” 

Buchanan has also found that playing Frisbee with friends throughout the week is an excellent social distancing sport. As for mental health, Buchanan spends a lot of time catching up with his family over the phone. “I call my mom and grandparents often to make sure everyone is doing well and staying busy. I also love to play video games with friends to stay in touch with them.” 

“I cannot stress the importance of mental and physical resiliency. With all of the issues in society, we are experiencing a rise in depression and suicide. We have to make serious efforts not to get so caught up in it because it isn’t all negative. Whether it’s talking to your friends or family, adopting a new pet, or volunteering, there is so much you can do to help out your community and, in turn, help yourself. It’s always so gratifying to be able to say “YES! I did something today!

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

U.S. Department of Defense Warrior Care proactively supports wounded, ill, and/or injured Service members in their recovery and reintegration or transition to civilian life. 

For more information about resources, contact osd.warriorcare@mail.mil 

U.S. Army Reserve Change of Responsibility (Virtual Ceremony)

• Watch the virtual Change of Responsibility ceremony between Command Sgt. Maj. Ted Copeland (outgoing) and Command Sgt. Maj. Andrew Lombardo (incoming), as the 14th command sergeant major of the U.S. Army Reserve.

• Learn more about Command Sgt. Maj. Lombardo.

The Leaders Corners Episode 4

• On this edition of the Leaders Corner we say farewell to CSM Ted Copeland who spends some time recounting lessons learned throughout his career.

Army Reserve Life: Firefighter & 92Y Supply Sergeant

• Sgt. Lysander Amado is a civilian firefighter and 92Y Supply Sergeant in the Army Reserve. After playing college football at the defensive tackle position, he decided his next big move was to join the Army Reserve, after gaining inspiration from recruitment commercials.

• Your future starts here.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Cadet Gabrielle Freeman serves in the 460th Quartermaster Company in Suffolk, Va., and is working on graduating from Norfolk State University next year through the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program. 

Freeman’s primary role during COVID-19 was mostly to stay home and practice social distancing to minimize further spread of the coronavirus. However, like many people during the pandemic, Freeman needed to support her family with limited options. As a result, Freeman found a job where she was able to practice social distancing and give back to her community. 

Aside from working part-time and maintaining a household, Freeman also found herself joining a group where younger female cadets could get together and maintain physical fitness for their pending Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). As a senior, Freeman wanted to make sure that younger ROTC cadets were aware of the significance of the ACFT and the importance of maintaining physical fitness. As a result, they began holding each other accountable. 

“I don’t think people realize just how difficult certain events of the ACFT are. Once you’re finished with one event, your legs may feel like jello, but you have to push through it and successfully finish all of the events. Maintaining your physical fitness during times like these is critical because the ACFT is a real beast,” mentioned Freeman. 

Freeman maintains high levels of positivity and resiliency by meeting new customers while at work who are merely trying to keep themselves busy by working on home renovations and projects. She expressed that creating genuine connections with people while at work is her way of giving back to the community and impacting people’s lives. 

When asked for advice, Freeman was happy to share her experience with the ROTC program and stress what a great opportunity it can be to join the Army. “Becoming a cadet was a great opportunity for my daughter and me. As a single parent, joining the ROTC program was an excellent option for me to fulfill my goals and still be able to provide as a mother. It’s also allowed me to expand my leadership skills as well as practice my motivational skills so that I can successfully lead Soldiers down the road. This program has given me opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise, and I would say that if you’re thinking about joining, definitely go for it!”  

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Jun. 22 - Retention, virtual recruiting aim to meet end-strength goal. The Army’s end-strength goal of 485,000 Soldiers by Sept. 30 is on track, the force’s top manpower official said, but to make up for setbacks caused by COVID-19, the Army hopes to ink 10,000 enlistment contracts during a three-day virtual hiring extravaganza that starts June 30. 

• Jun. 23 - Join the 143d ESC Team. Submit your packet for our 143d ESC G1 staff to review. Required documents: Automated Record Brief (ARB), DA photo, all evaluations that cover the previous three years, APFT card, and Body Fat Content Worksheet (DA FORM 5500) if necessary.

• Jun. 24 - COVID-19 Movement Restrictions Update. States and countries listed as “green” on defense.gov are not “green” for travel, instead they are an indicator for the Army to make decisions. It is the chain of commands responsibility to determine whether installations and states are restricted or unrestricted.

• Jun. 25 - How do you currently receive information from the Army Reserve? The Army Reserve is working to identify how Soldiers, Civilians and Family Members like to receive information. Take the survey. The survey will pinpoint the types of information you would like to receive from the Army Reserve and help make improvements in the delivery method.

• Jun. 26 - Project Inclusion to cut board photos in holistic effort to promote diversity. Starting in August, photos will be eliminated from promotion and selection boards as the Army launches “Project Inclusion” to identify practices that inadvertently discriminate, senior leaders announced Thursday.

New Issue of the The Wildcat Press

• The 81st Readiness Division USAR Florida published their latest digital newsletter, providing national resources and resources for the state of Florida. 

• To stay up-to-date, make sure to Like and Follow their Facebook page.

Project Inclusion to cut board photos in holistic effort to promote diversity

• Starting in August, photos will be eliminated from promotion and selection boards as the Army launches “Project Inclusion” to identify practices that inadvertently discriminate, senior leaders announced Thursday.

• The project is a holistic effort to listen to Soldiers, civilians and family members and enact initiatives to promote diversity and equity, according to Secretary of the Army Ryan. D. McCarthy.

The Binson Show: The COVID Bug

• In this episode, Binson attempts to find and squash the "Bug" that might get his grandma sick.

• Binson is an energetic and lovable character who teaches children important lessons about COVID-19 and other issues through his playful exploration. 

• Through such play, he finds the reasons for the guidelines that Army Reserve Families should follow. These short shows are intended for children of all ages.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Sgt. 1st Class Noreshia Young joined the 812th Transportation Battalion in Charlotte, N.C., this past January as the Active Guard Reserve motor transport operator (88M). Young also serves as the unit public affairs representative (UPAR) and Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Program (SHARP) Victim Advocate.

Young has been teleworking from home since the start of COVID-19, which took her some time to get used to her daily routine. 

As for her community, Young did not report a lot of change about the pandemic. “I don’t leave the house often except for when I need to purchase groceries, and when we do go out, my son and I make sure to wear our face masks and not to touch anything.” 

When she isn’t teleworking, Young and her son like to schedule movie nights and work out in the garage. On Sunday’s they spend quality family time while playing video games. 

“Please wear your face mask wherever you go! COVID-19 is not something to take lightly regardless of what age you are. Sanitize and be mindful of your surroundings when going out in public,” added Young, stressing the dangers of the pandemic.

How do you currently receive information from the Army Reserve?

• The Army Reserve is working to identify how Soldiers, Civilians and Family Members like to receive information. 

• Take the survey. The survey will pinpoint the types of information you would like to receive from the Army Reserve and help make improvements in the delivery method.

The Road to Awesome

• Lt. Gen. Charles Luckey, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, United States Army Reserve Command, send his message to the force - The Road to Awesome.

Feedback on Diversity and Inclusion in the Military 

• Secretary of the Army Dr. Mark T. Esper sends his message to the force, “Our United States Military is an institution that embraces diversity and inclusion, and rejects hate and prejudice in all forms. We have led on these issues throughout our history but know that we as a military are also susceptible to the forces of bias and prejudice, whether seen or unseen, deliberate or unintentional.” Read more.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Maj. Elvin Pabon is a logistics officer (90A) and serves as an auditor for the Internal Review Office of the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary). 

As an auditor for the command working directly for the Commanding General, Pabon’s role before the COVID-19 pandemic entailed handling an audit received directly from the Army Reserve Headquarters related to catered meals of individual units. However, once the pandemic evolved into social distancing and working remotely, Pabon could not continue visiting select units in person, which significantly reduced the quality of education and maintenance he would typically conduct.

As for his community, Pabon reported a feeling of temporarily being limited to everything. “Supermarkets, the Veterans Affairs (VA Hospital, and just everything, in general, felt greatly reduced, and the number of people as patients and shoppers alike, dwindled.” 

Pabon went on to add, “At the VA Hospital where I work, we had to cancel all upcoming appointments and make an effort only to accept emergency cases to do our part in limiting the spread of the pandemic.” 

Pabon mentioned an increase in outdoor activities throughout his neighborhood, which is a positive we can all take away during this time. 

As a family man, Pabon remained resilient during the coronavirus outbreak by making sure everyone was safe. “We made great efforts to refrain from doing activities in large crowds such as grocery shopping and eating out at restaurants. Instead, we stayed home and found activities to do together. Game nights quickly became a huge hit,” mentioned Pabon.

However, Pabon does not believe that the pandemic is over. “We still have to remain vigilant of what’s going on and try to continue adhering to safety measures set in place by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Don’t let your guard down and continue to be safe.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Education and Training: Learn how to apply for the GI Bill and other VA education benefits as a Veteran, service member, or qualified family member.

COVID-19 Movement Restrictions Update

• States and countries listed as “green” on defense.gov are not “green” for travel, instead they are an indicator for the Army to make decisions.

• It is the chain of commands responsibility to determine whether installations and states are restricted or unrestricted.

• Contact your chain of command for current travel guidance..

Protecting the protectors: Reserve Soldier on front lines helps contain COVID-19 spread

• As she prepared to leave for the mission in early April, Capt. Holly Beard, an Army Reserve entomologist, had only one certainty: she’d be battling against the spread of a deadly virus.

• She loaded her suitcases with everything she thought that she needed: her military uniforms, extra clothes, tuna snack packs and toilet paper.

Army Credentialing Assistance Program

• Much like Tuition Assistance (TA), Soldiers can request Credentialing Assistance (CA) for training that leads to a credential, license, or certification through GoArmyEd. 

• CA will pay for training courses that lead to a credential, and also provides funding for books, materials, fees, exams, and recertification. Soldiers have a combined fiscal year limit not to exceed $4,000 for use towards TA and CA.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

1st Lt. Brian Agard is a budget analyst assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla. In this interview, Agard shared why he joined and continues to serve in the Army Reserve. (U.S. Army video by Spc. Leon Orange)

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Retiring soon? Check out the Soldier For Life Community links for more information on retirement planning and post-retirement guidance. 

DOD Official Details COVID-19 Mitigation Efforts

• Since January, when the effects of COVID-19 started to be felt in the United States, the Defense Department's priority has been to protect the more than 3 million service members, their families and all DOD civilians and contractors, while continuing the national security mission, said a top DOD official.

• DOD is partnering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Health and Human Services, providing almost $800 million in lifesaving supplies and equipment to service members and federal agencies.

Find Your Next Career

• American Corporate Partners (ACPT) connects veterans with business leaders in a variety of ways beyond its original corporate mentoring program.

• ACP’s Women’s Veteran Mentoring Program launched in 2016 and connects female veterans with female entrepreneurs and business leaders for yearlong mentorships. Women veterans have access to exclusive networking events and career development workshops.

• ACP AdvisorNet is an online career Q&A community designed to assist an increasing number of veterans and current service members with networking and career advice.

Join the 143d ESC Team

• Submit your packet for our 143d ESC G1 staff to review.

• Required documents: Automated Record Brief (ARB), DA photo, all evaluations that cover the previous three years, APFT card, and Body Fat Content Worksheet (DA FORM 5500) if necessary.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Spc. Joshua Scott serves as an Army motor transport operator (88M) for the 196th Transportation Company - Palletized Load System (PLS) in Orlando, Fla. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, like many others, Scott found himself unemployed and stayed at home to help minimize the coronavirus spread. A great demonstration of duty and selfless service, Scott has taken this time at home to help give back to his community by ensuring his neighbors are taken care of and remain safe. Recently, Scott helped his community by going around the neighborhood trimming trees to reduce damage caused by seasonal hurricanes and tornadoes. 

Scott also contributes to unit readiness by attending virtual battle assembly to continue learning about subjects including suicide prevention, first aid, veterans benefits, sexual harassment/assault response and prevention, and equal opportunity.  

Scott maintains readiness and resiliency by playing video games and working out in the pool. “The pandemic has been rough for everyone, but it hasn’t all been negative. There are more people spending time outside to exercise, and children are playing rather than staying inside. It’s a great chance to see within the community despite everything that’s going on,” mentioned Scott. 

“Stay strong, stay safe, and please follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines so that we can get back to normal and carry on with our lives.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. 

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or Text TALK to 741741

Travel Restrictions: Green Locations, June 19, 2020

• There are now 46 states and 8 host nations that meet the conditions to lift travel restrictions, subject to the assessment of conditions at individual military installations within these areas.

• More information on the update to the travel restrictions can be found here.

Video: DOD Acquisition Leader Briefs Reporters

• Ellen M. Lord, undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, held a news conference on the DOD’s COVID-19 acquisition policy at the Pentagon.

Retention, virtual recruiting aim to meet end-strength goal

• The Army’s end-strength goal of 485,000 Soldiers by Sept. 30 is on track, the force’s top manpower official said, but to make up for setbacks caused by COVID-19, the Army hopes to ink 10,000 enlistment contracts during a three-day virtual hiring extravaganza that starts June 30.

• When the nationwide virtual hiring spree kicks off, Army leaders hope to sign up 10,000 new recruits. This doesn’t mean everyone ships to basic training that weekend, Muth said, but it does mean 10,000 people will commit to an Army contract.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Hansen, an Active Guard Reserve Soldier, is a satellite communication systems operator-maintainer (25S) and serves as the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) G6 noncommissioned officer in charge.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hansen and the 143d ESC G6 continue to maintain 100% operational capacity.

“We’ve made sure to always have at least one person at the facility each day to continue taking care of help desk tickets and customers in need,” stated Hansen.  “Monitoring interference with technical issues as well as dealing with user accounts needed for Soldiers to telework has been our biggest focus throughout the pandemic.” 

Although COVID-19 has presented quite the change for many individuals, Hansen reported that social distancing and mindfulness of items accepted from customers were some of the more noticeable differences that took place for him. 

On the other hand, when referring to his community, Hansen reported an increased level of outdoor exercise as well as more awareness for precautions when going out in public areas. 

“More people are seen outside exercising and breathing in the fresh air,” added Hansen. “A sense of rejuvenation as a result of spare time seems to be a theme within the community as of recent and while being stuck at home more often than not, isn’t super fun, I get to spend more time with my family.” 

“We love to play our version of one of the board games we have at home, in which our kids can earn play money to apply toward the real world. For example, they will earn money in the game and then be able to utilize it to purchase more video game time in the real world. Aside from that, I’ve recently unearthed my old drum set that we now use to let off some steam.”

When asked about motivation and resiliency, Hansen immediately mentioned health and spending time outdoors. “We try not to watch the news too often but instead opt to go outside and spend time together by exercising. My family is big into baseball, and thankfully, our son will get to play this summer, so we have that to look forward to!”

“Stay strong and remember that positivity goes a long way. I use it every day as my energy! And remember, things will always get better,” mentioned Hansen.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The U.S. Army Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation communities finder is a helpful tool that helps locate nearby MWR sites as well as provide helpful links to information such as installation IHG Army Hotels and Garrison home pages.

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Jun. 15 - Army Combat Fitness Test Update. The Army Combat Fitness Test replaces the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) as the Army’s physical fitness test of record beginning Oct. 1, 2020.

• Jun. 16 - Let’s not just talk about it – Let’s BE ABOUT IT.  The Army’s senior law enforcement officer delivers a message to the military police corps on fostering a culture built on trust, acceptance and change in how we treat others:  Let’s not just talk about it – Let’s BE ABOUT IT.

• Jun. 17 - Army National Hiring Day. Army National Hiring Days is a national, Total Army campaign to hire 10,000 new Soldiers in three days (June 30 - July 2).

• Jun. 18 - DOD Increases Money for Do-It-Yourself Moves. Aside from limiting exposure to COVID-19, a revision to the Defense Department’s Joint Travel Regulations has increased the monetary payment to Soldiers who choose to move their household goods.

• Jun. 19 - Center for Disease Control COVID-19 Update. Since Jun. 16 more than 2.1 million COVID-19 cases have been reported in the U.S., with 37 states and jurisdictions reporting more than 10,000 cases. See how many cases have been reported in your state.

Center for Disease Control COVID-19 Update

• Since Jun. 16 more than 2.1 million COVID-19 cases have been reported in the U.S., with 37 states and jurisdictions reporting more than 10,000 cases.

• See how many cases have been reported in your state.

Juneteenth 2020

• As we remember this day in history, let us come together, knowing that our people are our greatest strength.

• Juneteenth (June + 19), also referred to as Freedom Day, celebrates the emancipation of the enslaved people in America.

Happy Father's Day from America's Army Reserve!

• A message from the U.S. Army Reserve to fathers.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Staff Sgt. Travesshania Jackson serves as an automated logistical specialist (92A) for the 282nd Quartermaster Company out of Montgomery, Ala. 

As the operations noncommissioned officer, Jackson manages and disseminates information received from battalion to the 282nd QM Co Soldiers. However, due to COVID-19, Jackson has had to work from home and has found it increasingly difficult to get work done when the internet fails in her area. “I can’t get as much accomplished as I normally would when working in the office,” mentioned Jackson. 

“While it may appear as a negative and stressful situation, it’s also a blessing in disguise. We can stay home and minimize contact with others as much as possible to reduce the spread of coronavirus. The considerable decrease in stress from commuting to and from work is also an enormous positive,” added Jackson. 

Staying motivated amid the pandemic hasn’t been easy for everyone, but Jackson has found resiliency in keeping a positive attitude. “Everything is going to be okay. Maintain positivity toward your family and put effort into doing activities together, such as going for daily walks. For example, my oldest child and I love to play video games, and he gives me a run for my money!” 

Currently, safe-at-home orders are being lifted throughout the country, while social distancing measures remain a priority. Jackson hopes that by keeping social distancing measures, we will be able to get through this as a unit. “Let’s not be neglectful. Wash your hands, wear your facemask, and call your loved ones to check in on them.”

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

TRICARE Reserve Select is:

• A premium-based plan
• Available worldwide
• For qualified Retired Reserve members and their families

If purchased, TRICARE Reserve Select meets or exceeds the requirements for minimum essential coverage.

The Affordable Care Act requires you to maintain basic health care coverage—called minimum essential coverage.

DOD Increases Money for Do-It-Yourself Moves

• Aside from limiting exposure to COVID-19, a revision to the Defense Department’s Joint Travel Regulations has increased the monetary payment to Soldiers who choose to move their household goods.

• From May 26 through Dec. 31, Soldiers using the PPM program can receive a payment equal to 100 percent of the estimated cost the government would pay to move their items.

What’s Your Warrior?

• With over 150 career options, your future begins here. 

• Join during Army National Hiring Days, June 30th - July 2nd, and you could receive an extra bonus up to $2,000 or a four-year scholarship.

Spartan Chaplains Maintain Morale and Faith Despite COVID-19

• The chaplains of Task Force Spartan in the U.S. Central Command area of operations are working overtime to maintain morale amid social distancing and other restrictions soldiers face in a COVID-19 environment.

• Virtual services are not the only method for tending to the faithful. Some small-scale services take place outdoors to maintain some semblance of normalcy.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

1st Sgt. Nicole Comey serves as the 196th Transportation Company (TC Co) - Palletized Load System first sergeant and is a transportation senior sergeant (88Z) with prior experience as a transportation management coordinator (88N). Starting June, Comey will join the 641st Regional Support Group S3 after honorably leading the 196th TC Co for the past two years.

 As the 196th TC Co first sergeant, Comey had a  highly interactive role during the COVID-19 pandemic with her Soldiers and their Families. "With the initial alerts and commander's critical information requirements, we wanted to make sure we pushed out pertinent information to the Soldiers and begin scheduling our virtual battle assemblies (VBA) so that we could carry on with the missions at hand." 

"Changes during the start of the pandemic were dramatic, and Soldiers couldn't come into the unit anymore, which meant that we couldn't rally together and have our normal camaraderie that everyone is so used to," added Comey. "However, Soldiers were quick to adjust, and we made it work with VBA and the other resources we have been able to utilize." 

COVID-19 has presented uncertainty and unusual circumstances, but Comey doesn't believe it'll deter Soldiers and their ability to adapt and overcome. "We never know if something like this is going to happen again. But now we know how to react and go about it. The Army did an excellent job of adapting and making changes, and that's what we're all about." 

As far as remaining resilient and motivated, Comey mentioned keeping good mental health practices, exercising daily, checking in on Soldiers, and appreciating the extra time she's had to spend with her family. "Slow down in life. Although it may be difficult at the moment, I think if you find the positive, everyone will come out of this on top." 

"My family and I love to solve puzzles, and we often go on walks and bike rides. We also make efforts to stay away from electronics so that we could enjoy our time together."

When asked for advice or suggestions about COVID-19 and the pandemic, Comey couldn't stress enough the importance of mental health. "Being stuck inside can really take a toll on your mental health, and getting outside really does help. If you find yourself needing help, by all means, seek help. Check-in on your battle buddies and Soldiers because we are all in this together and we need to come out of this on top."

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Make an appointment with The Bureau of Consular Affairs to renew, update or apply for a passport.

For questions, call 1-877-487-2778/ 1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY) or email NPIC@state.gov

​A Conversation with Lt. Gen. Charles Luckey

• Lt. Gen. Luckey talked with the Federal News Network about everything from how the U.S. Army Reserve responded to the COVID-19 pandemic, to what is Ready Force X. Listen to the conversation. 

Army National Hiring Day

• Army National Hiring Days is a national, Total Army campaign to hire 10,000 new Soldiers in three days (June 30 - July 2).

• Executive leadership opportunities are open for college students and graduates. Learn more during National Hiring Days at www.goarmy.com/hiringdays. 

• The Army is the largest provider of scholarships in the nation, enabling scholars and athletes to attend college and become officers.

It's Election Season Again

• Want to vote? The Federal Voting Assistance Program can help.

• FVAP.gov has information on state and national voting guidelines, registering to vote, using the Federal Post Card Application, and requesting absentee ballots. You can also use the site to check on the status of your voted ballot.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Lt. Col. John Soto is an Active Guard Reserve Soldier assigned to the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) in Orlando, Fla. In this interview, Lt. Col. Soto shares why he joined and continues to serve in the U.S. Army Reserve.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The DOD Safe Helpline provides sexual assault support for the DOD community. Talk to someone now. Anonymous. Confidential. 24/7.

Let’s not just talk about it – Let’s BE ABOUT IT

• The Army’s senior law enforcement officer delivers a message to the military police corps on fostering a culture built on trust, acceptance and change in how we treat others:  Let’s not just talk about it – Let’s BE ABOUT IT.

SMA Michael Grinston Discusses ACFT

• The panel discussed recent changes to the Army Combat Fitness Test. 

• Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Grinston was joined with Maj. Gen. Lonnie Hibbard, U.S. Army Center for Initial Military Training Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Maria Gervais with Army Futures Command, and Command Sgt. Maj. Jamilla Smith with the headquarters battalion at the U.S. Army Military District of Washington.

Operation Warp Speed Accelerates COVID-19 Vaccine Development

• The national effort to accelerate the development, manufacturing and distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine, called "Operation Warp Speed," will hasten the delivery of that vaccine by conducting steps concurrently that normally would be conducted sequentially, senior administration officials said.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

1LT Phuong Tran is an Active Guard Reserve signal officer (25A) serving as an information systems officer for the 642nd Regional Support Group (RSG) in Decatur, Ga. 

Tran recently joined the Active Guard Reserve program despite difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic and is finding his new unit welcoming and accommodating.

 “The process of going AGR was complicated because of the lockdowns that took place during the pandemic. I was supposed to report to the 642nd RSG right before social distancing began, and as a result, the process was delayed for three months,” mentioned Tran. 

Tran didn’t let the pandemic keep him and his wife from continuing the process of relocating and settling in. “Plans quickly changed, and some things such as apartment hunting became exceedingly difficult. I wholeheartedly credit my wife for all of the support she’s given me during our relocation process. Being able to talk to someone who genuinely cares about you and understands you when you’re frustrated is crucial.”

“I encourage everyone to seek out that level of support system. It could be anyone so long as they are willing to listen.”

When asked about his community and COVID-19, Tran mentioned changes in sympathy and understanding. “Many people have lost jobs and can’t pay their bills. As a result, we witness a rise in empathy and caringness within the community. Everyone is more susceptible to experiencing job loss and a decrease in income, so the community will inevitably come together.”

“Everyone knows what’s taking place. Things are changing and will continue to change. We don’t know how long things will last like this, but we must work together and be there for each other. I firmly believe that having some support system is crucial, and if you find yourself needing help, ASK, because someone out there is willing to help,” added Tran.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

U.S. Army Installation Management Command now has a post location tool that can help you find contact information for the closest Army Installation to you.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can affect anyone. It doesn’t care about rank, race, age, or gender.

• Brig. Gen. Ernest Litynski sat down to share his story of living with PTSD.

Army Combat Fitness Test Update

• The Army Combat Fitness Test replaces the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) as the Army’s physical fitness test of record beginning Oct. 1, 2020.

• The Army will no longer conduct the APFT after Sep. 30, 2020, with exception articulated in AR 350-1, paragraph F-5k, for Soldiers who failed their last record APFT.

COVID-19 Patients Video Chat with Loved Ones

• U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Rachelle Dominique, a behavioral health specialist, assigned to the Urban Augmentation Medical Task Force, visits patients and allows them to communicate with their families via video chat at Elmhurst Hospital in Queens, N.Y., May 27, 2020.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Capt. Brian Hare serves as a Troop Program Unit (TPU) public affairs officer (46A) as well as a signal officer (25A) for the 642nd Regional Support Group (RSG), based in Atlanta, Ga. 

Hare recently returned from a deployment to Iraq as part of Operation Inherent Resolve with the 787th Combat Support Sustainment Battalion (CSSB) as the S6. 

As the public affairs officer for the 642nd RSG, Hare's primary role during COVID-19 is to share information gathered from subordinate units with the Army Reserve Headquarters and manage the 642nd RSG's social media presence.

"One of the biggest changes during the pandemic when it came to working was not being able to travel. I am an "on the job" type of person, and not being able to get out there with my camera was difficult," stated Hare. "However, I was thoroughly impressed with how well the units responded to the pandemic. Their ability to quickly transition from in-person battle assembly to virtual battle assembly was impressive." 

"Virtual battle assembly has added value and maximized training. Units have come together in a great way, and there's proof of it through the virtual change of commands, virtual promotions, virtual physical fitness attendance, and much more."

"Back when I first joined the Army, during the late '80s to early '90s, this wouldn't have been possible. The fact that we can stay connected and carry on with training despite social distancing is excellent," added Hare. 

When Hare isn't working from home, he takes time to work on himself. "One thing you can always do is to just work on yourself. Get outside, get on the track, and stay active." 

Aside from remaining active and resilient, Hare encourages everyone to "stay strong and continue to maximize participation with their units through the virtual battle assembly. Most importantly, be there for each other.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

The staff is committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Jun. 8 - Travel Restrictions: Green Locations. As of Jun. 8, select states and host nations met the conditions to lift travel restrictions, subject to the assessment of conditions at individual military installations within these areas. 

• Jun. 9 - America's Army Reserve Represents Unity and Diversity. Lt. Gen. Charles D Luckey, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve sends his message to the force, “We as a team, some 200,000 Soldiers and civilians spread across 20 time zones have a unique opportunity and responsibility to model for our fellow citizens what right looks like.”

• Jun. 10 - Warrant Officer Recruiting Virtual Briefings. Have you considered becoming a Warrant Officer? Briefings will be conducted every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. (EDT) and the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. (EDT). NOTE: CAC login is required choose Email certificate.

• Jun. 11 - Army Reserve DCG: Racism Is Contrary to Our Army Values. Maj. Gen. A.C. Roper, deputy commanding general of the Army Reserve sends his message to the force, "Racism and other discriminatory practices break trust with the team and break trust with the American people. And we as an Army, we have spent 245 years building trust with the American people. And we will not break that trust today.”

• Jun. 12 - Passport Operations in Response to COVID-19. To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect the workforce and customers, the U.S. Department of State significantly reduced passport operations in March 2020. They temporarily suspended expedited passport processing and restricted service to cases involving life-or-death emergencies. Read more for answers to frequently asked questions. 

Passport Operations in Response to COVID-19

• To prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect the workforce and customers, the U.S. Department of State significantly reduced passport operations in March 2020. They temporarily suspended expedited passport processing and restricted service to cases involving life-or-death emergencies.

• As global conditions evolve and U.S. states begin to reopen, they are resuming operations in phases. They ask for your patience as they safely work on your application.

• Read more for answers to frequently asked questions. 

June 14th Army Birthday Events

• *Virtual Event* - Army Birthday Wreath Laying at Arlington National Cemetery.  At 11:30 a.m. (EDT) Wreath-laying is a tradition that honors the service and sacrifice of our fallen service members and the legacy they left behind. This annual event will take place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and will be livestreamed; you may watch it here.

• *Virtual Event* - FLAGSHIP Event: "The Army at 245: A Tribute to America". At 7:00 p.m. (EDT) You may watch the video on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube.

Deployment and Redeployment Requirements During COVID-19

• All deploying service members and DOD civilian employees will complete Force Health Protection, or FHP, predeployment requirements in accordance with DODI 6490.03. This includes screening for COVID-19 exposure and symptoms, and testing if available and appropriate, consistent with DOD testing guidance.

• All redeploying service members and DOD civilian employees will complete a Post-Deployment Health Assessment (DD Form 2796) and Post-Deployment Health Reassessment (DD Form 2900) in accordance with DODI 6490.03, “Deployment Health.” The requirement applies to all service members, including Active Component and Reserve Component personnel on applicable Title 10 or Title 32 orders.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Capt. William Wakeman serves as a transportation officer (88A) for the 828th Transportation Battalion and is currently getting ready to attend Captain Careers Course to become a logistics officer (90A). 

As a transportation officer, Wakeman's role involves working with higher personnel to obtain information necessary to keep track of the COVID-19 response.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Wakeman has had to adapt to teleworking and increased communication via email and phone calls to maintain proper coverage on COVID-19. As for changes in his community, he noted the decreased levels of community engagement when it came to outdoor activities and fitness, caused by increased safety guidance. "Meridian, the area I live in, was a vibrant daily place before COVID-19. Now, parks are closed, and people are hesitant to go outside. The streets are deserted and there's no one playing basketball. It's sad to see the neighborhood so quiet." 

When Wakeman isn't teleworking, he loves to spend time with his family. "My entire family purchased gaming systems at the very start of the pandemic, and we've been utilizing them to stay in touch. We host virtual family game nights and have regular competitions via the system's online network. Thanks to this gaming system, it doesn't matter how far they live; we are all able to stay connected and have fun even while social distancing", stated Wakeman as he chuckled.

When asked for some words of wisdom, Wakeman firmly replied that "ultimately it all comes down to attitude. Have a good attitude! Stay resilient through difficult times and push through. Difficult times are always going to take place, and your attitude will affect everything. Whether you can or can't do something, you're probably right. Attitude is everything."

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

What can you do if your finances have been affected by the Coronavirus pandemic?

The Federal trade Commission Consumer Information provides some tips on dealing with job loss, trouble paying bills – including mortgages and car payments – and, if it comes to it, your rights in debt collection. They also have some resources if your small business is affected.

Army Reserve DCG: Racism Is Contrary to Our Army Values

• Maj. Gen. A.C. Roper, deputy commanding general of the Army Reserve sends his message to the force, "Racism and other discriminatory practices break trust with the team and break trust with the American people. And we as an Army, we have spent 245 years building trust with the American people. And we will not break that trust today.”

• Maj. Gen. Roper dedicated 33 years to law enforcement, including time as chief of police in Birmingham, Alabama.

June 12th Army Birthday Events

• *Virtual Event* - Army Birthday Run. At 6:30 a.m. (EDT), commemorate the 245th anniversary of America's First National Institution with a virtual 2.45-mile run. This run will be conducted and prerecorded by the Military District of Washington, in coordination with The Old Guard. You may watch it here.

• Cadet Command National Commissioning. At 10 a.m. (EDT), this event will be livestreamed; you may watch it here.

• *Virtual Event* - Army Cake-cutting and Reenlistment Ceremony. At 1 p.m. (EDT), a traditional birthday cake-cutting and reenlistment ceremony will be held at the Pentagon. This event will be livestreamed; you may watch it here.

Army Historians Document Actionable History During COVID-19 Operations

• In 245 years, the U.S. Army has fought wars and conducted stability and support operations overseas and on home soil, often while fighting deadly diseases at the same time. 

• Across the nation, historians helped prepare their commands for the current operations and readiness for future needs. As COVID-19 operations come to an end, so, too, will this unique history mission, having captured and collected another integral piece of the nation’s story.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Staff Sgt. William Teal is a military police (31B) serving as the force protection noncommissioned officer for the 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) Force Protection Office in Orlando, Fla.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals faced disruption in their daily routines from having to telework to cancelling trips to visit family. A significant change for Teal and his family was communication, "None of our family members live in Florida. My family lives in Tennessee, and my wife's family lives in the Philippines." Since quality time with family and friends is essential for the Teal and his family, he shared how they overcame the challenge. "If it weren't for video messaging, there would be no face-to-face interaction between our families."

Teal further shared how COVID-19 impacted his team's mission. "Our work environment for physical security requires us to physically go out to our Reserve facilities and conduct our inspection. With the travel ban and the social distancing, our mission has slowed down a lot. However, through video conferencing and emails, we can better prepare our units for the administrative portion of the inspection."

Teal and his team have found solutions to every challenge they have faced during the pandemic. He shared that despite the social distancing requirement, an advantage they discovered was how they "can start making corrections and improvements before we're physically at the facility. We can do a more in-depth assessment of the procedures instead of concentrating on paperwork, which we're doing in advance. The process is proving to be a lot faster, a lot more efficient, maybe more well-rounded."

As Teal and his team wait for restrictions to lift so they can travel for their inspections, his family has expressed that they would rather have him work from home. "My family has gotten used to me being home more often. They're enjoying the family time that we have." Similar to the Teals, many Soldiers and their Families have expressed their gratitude for the time spent together.

When asked about any lesson learned while teleworking and how he's preparing to return to the office, Teal shared, "We have to continue being an adaptive force. Some of the procedures we have implemented while teleworking, I think if we implement them when we all return to the office, we will be a more well-rounded force that's ready to take on every mission with a different mindset."

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Vets4Warriors, housed at the Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care National Call Center in New Jersey, is a one-of-a-kind 24/7 peer support network. Originally supported by the National Guard Bureau and the U.S. Department of Defense, today Vets4Warriors operates independently of the U.S. military, complementing official government resources available to service members and veterans.

Warrant Officer Recruiting Virtual Briefings

• Have you considered becoming a Warrant Officer?

• Briefings will be conducted every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. (EDT) and the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. (EDT). NOTE: CAC login is required choose Email certificate.

• Watch the narrated Warrant Officer briefing in advance and bring your questions to the virtual briefing.

USO Back to School Registration Open

• The USO is still moving forward to provide services for our military families and it's time to officially open up registration for our annual backpack distribution!  

• From now until June 26th, active duty military families are invited to register their children for pre-stuffed backpacks that will be delivered to a variety of pick-up locations across Central and South Florida at the end of July/beginning of August.  

• All details including the school supplies your children will receive, backpack pick-up locations/times and more, can be found within the registration form.  

*Virtual Event* - Army Birthday Run 

• Commemorate the 245th anniversary of America's First National Institution with a virtual 2.45-mile run this Friday, Jun. 12 at 7 a.m. (EDT). 

• This run will be conducted and prerecorded by the Military District of Washington, in coordination with The Old Guard. You may watch it here.

WHY I SERVE

Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Mezquita serves as an Active Guard Reserve Soldier with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 143d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), in Orlando, Fla.

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

ChildCare.gov helps parents access safe and quality child care services in their community that best suits their family’s needs. Provides links to State or Territory child care websites that parents use to search for child care and consumer education information.

ChildCare.gov is a requirement of the Child Care and Development Block Grant Reauthorization (CCDBG) Act of 2014. It is operated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Child Care (OCC).

America's Army Reserve Represents Unity and Diversity

• Lt. Gen. Charles D Luckey, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve sends his message to the force, “We as a team, some 200,000 Soldiers and civilians spread across 20 time zones have a unique opportunity and responsibility to model for our fellow citizens what right looks like.”

Boston University student and Army Reserve Soldier

• While many college students adapted to completing their spring semester virtually, one Boston University undergraduate found himself in the epicenter of the response efforts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Apply today for the Guaranteed Reserve Force Duty (GRFD) Scholarship Minuteman Campaign.

*Virtual Event* - Twilight Tattoo

• This event is a pre-recorded, live-action military tribute to the history of the Army featuring Soldiers from The 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own."

• This event will use elements from the 2019 Army Birthday Tattoo, and will include an introduction from an Army Senior Leader. You may watch on Facebook and YouTube.

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Spc. Jayden Johnson serves as a unit supply specialist (92Y) for the 196th Transportation Company - Palletized Load System in Orlando, Fla. and is a realtor in his civilian capacity. 

Although the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in state-wide closures with increased levels of social distancing, Johnson was happy to report that when it came to the housing market, "...the pandemic created an optimal time for sellers to list their homes with little to no competition while also affording buyers the opportunity to negotiate excellent buying terms." 

When he's not instructing during virtual battle assembly (VBA), Johnson likes to spend his time helping people find their dream homes. He enjoys jogs around Dr. Philips, rock climbing, and walking the West Orange Trail with his wife and dog.  

"COVID-19 has impacted the real estate industry in various ways. A large number of people have reported domestic violence, lack of food, cramped spaces, and as a result, I want to be able to help as many people as possible get out of those circumstances. I believe that we can take these situations and turn them around. Those people can indeed achieve the American Dream."

RESOURCE OF THE DAY

Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness — and their family members, friends and supporters — can make the call to or chat online with the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Travel Restrictions: Green Locations, June 8, 2020

• As of today, select states and host nations met the conditions to lift travel restrictions, subject to the assessment of conditions at individual military installations within these areas. 

• The secretaries of the military departments, commanders of the combatant commands, and the chief management officer will assess specific DOD installations, facilities, or locations under their purview.

• More information on the update to the travel restrictions can be found here.

81st Readiness Division Family Programs Update

• Published weekly, The Wildcat Press is the source for Soldiers, Civilians and their Family members for new resources, events and guidance.

• If you have any questions or concerns in regards to the newsletter, please contact your Family Readiness Support Assistant (FRSA). 

• FRSA (North Region): Ms. Michelle F. Curtis at 910-771-3492 or michelle.f.curtis.civ@mail.mil

• FRSA (Central Region): Ms. Nydia Baez at 910-771-2188 or nydia.j.baez.civ@mail.mil

• FRSA (South Region): Mrs. Janette R. Chandler at 954-292-1940 or janette.r.chandler.civ@mail.mil

Army Reserve AR/60: Episode 23

• This new episode of AR/60 covers: 

  • How you can complete AR 350-1 requirements from home

  • How to sustain your physical readiness

  • What resources are available to help your career progression 

• Watch the video to learn more!

SOLDIER SPOTLIGHT

Staff Sgt. Demetrius Martin serves as an Active Guard Reserve (AGR) supply sergeant (92Y) for the 196th Transportation Company- Palletized Load System in Orlando, Fla. since 2016. Starting July, Martin will join a new Army Reserve unit in Indiana, where he will continue to lead soldiers and carry out his contract.

As the supply sergeant, Martin’s role during COVID-19 was crucial in maintaining unit deployability. While supervising limited personnel and ensuring all necessary personal protective equipment was available to prevent further spreading of the coronavirus, Martin was able to continue supply operations despite having to work remotely at times during the pandemic. 

“When it comes to staying resilient, my main objective is to stay engaged with the team. Whether virtually or through phone, I want to make sure Soldiers are doing good and are getting the support they need,” mentioned Martin. “My motivation resulted from knowing that my actions during the pandemic were keeping the unit at a high caliber, even with such restraints.” 

As we soon bid farewell to Staff Sgt. Martin, we would like to thank him for his continued efforts with the 196th Transportation Company. When asked about advice or any special message before his departure, Martin gladly stated, “Stay motivated even during stressful times and keep active. I want to thank everyone who welcomed me to the unit back in 2016. It was a pleasure working with everyone, and I enjoyed the laughs we have shared over the past four years. Let’s Roll!”  

Weekly Recap: What you may have missed this past week

• Jun. 1 - U.S. Army Birthday 2020 Events. There are a number of Army Birthday events available to you and your family. Note that many of the events are available virtually. The links to each virtual event can be found in the event descriptions.

• Jun. 2 - COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma. The DoD has begun an effort to collect 8,000 donated units of plasma from patients who have recovered from COVID-19 to support the development of an effective treatment against the disease.

• Jun. 3 - Military Medical Experts Explore Psychological Impacts of COVID-19. During the COVID-19 emergency and the current phase in which some communities are starting to emerge from restrictions, the psychological impact can affect health care workers, service members, veterans, civilians, and their families.

• Jun. 4 - Veterans Affairs Helps New Graduates. Graduating with a degree or certification is an important milestone and a huge accomplishment. Right now, though, you may be facing some economic challenges as you look for a job during a time of fierce competition and high unemployment rates.

• Jun. 5 - 81st Readiness Division Weather Safety Guide. The 81st Readiness Division has published a Weather Safety Guide for Soldiers and their Families with advice in preparing for a storm, during the storm, and after the storm passes.