R.A.O. Bulletin

RAO Bulletin Update
15 April 2007

THIS BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:

== Servers Block Bulletin --------------------------- (Those Affected)
== Making Sure You Get Your Email -------------- (How To)
== Agent Orange VAVA Compensation --------- (VietNamese/RoK Vets)
== RC Postal Employee Back Pay ------ (Improper Leave Assessment)
== VA Polytrauma Website ------------------------ (New)
== Canes For Veterans ----------------------------- (No Charge)
== WRAMC [08] --------------------------- (Review Group Report)
== Veterans Disabilities Hearing ---------- (VA/DoD Disparities)
== VA Performance Report --------------- (Best in Federal Sector)
== Mobilized Reserve 11 APR 07 ---------------- (Net Increase 1102)
== Wounded Warrior USMC Regiment ---------- (Established 1 APR)
== Great Pond Recreational Facility -------------- (MWR Vacation site)
== Tricare Anencephaly Abortion ----------------- (Cannot be Claimed)
== Tricare Supplemental Insurance [01] --------- (Factors to Consider)
== Trichloroethylene (TCE) Exposure ------------ (Impact on Humans)
== Philippine DEERS Registration [02] ---------- (ID Cards in PI)
== VA Claim Fixers ------------------------ (Jeopardizing Benefits)
== National Park Passports [01] ------------------ (JAN 07 Change)
== Medicare Scams [01] --------------------------- (Insurance)
== Premium Conversion [01] --------------------- (Pre-tax Dollars)
== Caffeine ------------------------------------------ (Common Doses)
== VA Retro Pay Project [07] ------------ (Processing thru DEC 07)
== AAFES Match It Program --------------------- (Lower Prices)
== Army Survivor’s Call Center ----------------- (New POC)
== Tricare EOBs [01 ----------------------- (TFL Policy Reversal)
== Navy Personal Data Breach [03] -------------- (Another Breach)
== Combat Zone Death Tax Reporting ---------- (How to)
== VA Personal Data ------------------------------- (How to Update)
== Air Force Email for Life ---------------- (Effective April 07)
== Space "A" Travel Policy ------------------------ (Changes)
== PTSD [12] ----------------------- (Alternative Sentencing Program)
== Vet Job Website ---------------------- (HirePatriots.com)
== WW1 Vet Search [02] -------------------------- (Only 4 Left)
== Depleted Uranium [02] ------------- (Gulf War Syndrome Cause)
== VA HOSPITAL Care [01] ---------------------- (Still the Best)
== Cigarette Fire-safe Law ---------------- (Self Extinguishment)
== Tricare Ambulance Service Claims [01] ----- (Prerequisites)
== VA Social Workers ------------------------------ (Help Available)
== VA Social Workers [01] ------------------------ (How They Help)
== Household Hints --------------------------------- (Useful Inf0)
== Veteran Legislation Status 13 APR 07 ------- (Where we stand)

Editor’s Note: Attached is a listing of veteran legislation with current cosponsor status that has been introduced in the 110th Congress. To see any of these bills passed into law representatives need input from their veteran constituents to guide them on how to vote.

SERVERS BLOCK BULLETIN: Recent updates to a number of servers’ programs have impacted on a number of reader’s ability to receive their Bulletin Updates. This seems to be an industry wide approach to deal with spam which places greater demands on users to ensure their computers are set up properly to receive email they want to receive. Last year AOL initiated changes that resulted in my having to delete over 12,000 of their users from the Bulletin directory. Now many MSN & Hotmail users are being prevented from receiving their Bulletin. The methodology by which the server’s are installing their changes prevents the sender or user from knowing a message has been blocked. The only way I know on this end is if a subscriber sends me a message asking me why he/she is no longer receiving the Bulletin. Recently about 300 of the 2,556 MSN & 5030 Hotmail users on my directory have sent messages. To ensure continued receipt of the Bulletin suggest all readers follow the guidance of the
next article titled, “Making Sure You Get Your Email” if you did not receive any recent Bulletins. For those who are not currently having a problem you may want to retain the below for future use in the event you server starts blocking your email. If this does not work for you and calling your server does not resolve the situation you can always refer to http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html to read the latest Bulletin or forward me another email addee to send to. [Source: Editor RAO Bulletin 14 Apr 07]

MAKING SURE YOU GET YOUR EMAIL: Because of spammers, many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and mail services use filters to keep spam out of their customer's email inboxes. Unfortunately, in the ever-escalating war between spammers and ISPs/mail services, many are accidentally caught in their cross-fire. The result is that ISPs or mail services often filter out email that you specifically ask to receive, such as this Bulletin. After you subscribe to anything like the Bulletin, you should take the following “whitelisting” steps to ensure that you actually will receive it.
- "Whitelist" the Bulletin’s Email addees in the Email Program on Your Computer
- "Whitelist" the Bulletin’s Email addees in the Spam Filter Software on Your Computer
- "Whitelist" the Bulletin’s Email addees at your ISP (Earthlink, Comcast, etc.) or Mail Service (Hotmail, Yahoo mail, etc.)

1. Whitelisting in the Email Program on Your Computer (ex., Outlook, Eudora): Put the e-mail addees (raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com) into your e-mail program's Address Book and any "approved senders list" or "whitelist" it uses. This will help to get the Bulletins through corporate mail filters and other less-than-sensible blockers: Most e-mail software now has both built-in spam-filtering and whitelisting features. You can also create your own special filters to accept and file incoming e-mail, and to trash other ones. See your software's help menu for information about spam filters, whitelisting, and creating your own filters, so that you can indicate to your software to accept mail from addees you want to receive.

2. Whitelisting in the Spam Filter Program on Your Computer (ex., McAfee SpamKiller): If you are using third-party spam filter software on your computer (ex., McAfee SpamKiller) to augment your e-mail software, indicate to that filtering software to accept emails from raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com. Either add them to some kind of a white list (or a "good list" or similar name), or click to indicate that mail filtered into a "Junk" folder is not junk -- all systems follow similar patterns, but the names may change. It is usually pretty straightforward, but you may need to search the software's Help menu for a bit of direction.
NOTE: Since the e-mail software-and-filter on your computer is the very end of the line, the Bulletin may be filtered out before it even gets to your computer. If you don't get e-mail that you are expecting, your ISP or mail service may be responsible.

3. Whitelisting Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Increasingly, Internet Service Provides that deliver your email (ex., earthlink.net, comcast.net) and mail services (ex., Hotmail, Yahoo) are using filtering systems to try to keep spam out of customers' inboxes. Sometimes, though, they accidentally filter the e-mail that you do want to receive. Even worse, they often do not tell you what they have filtered out, so you never know whether a legitimate email has been deleted. The volume of spam is enormous and the algorithms to figure out what is spam (and what is not) are complicated, thus mistakes frequently do happen. Here's how to add raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com to the "whitelist" of your ISP or mail service. However, the procedure varies from ISP/mail service to service, so find the one below that applies to you.

AOL - Place raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com in your Address Book. Check AOL help for details, if necessary. Different versions have different features. For example in version 7.0, go to Keyword Mail Controls -- after you select your screen name and left-click on "Customize Mail Controls For This Screen Name," enter the above domains in the section "exclusion and inclusion parameters." For AOL version 8.0, select "Allow email from all AOL members, email addresses and domains." Then left-click on "Next" until the Save button shows up at the bottom. Left click on "Save."

ATT.net - If Spam-blocker is enabled and if the e-mail message is legitimate and was screened as spam, forward the original message as an attachment to this-is-not-spam@worldnet.att.net.

ATTGlobal.net - Your Graymail folder contains all possible spam e-mail. The Graymail folder shows up on the Spam Control page only after you activate the "Filter" option. Before you activate that option, there is no Graymail folder. Once you have enabled the Spam Control feature, they have created an e-mail addresses for you to send your feedback. If you receive e-mail identified as <> and it is not spam, send that information to notspammail@attglobal.net.

Bellsouth.com - You must opt-out of MailGuard to receive e-mail from us. Once it is received forward it (with full headers) to this_is_good@bellsouth.net to have raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com whitelisted.

Other ISPs - Each ISP is a little different, but the idea is the same. ISPs usually provide help or instructions about whitelisting. But... If you can't find how to add the Bulletin email addee to a whitelist, call or e-mail your ISP's tech support or postmaster@your-isp.com and specifically ask how you can be sure to receive all e-mail from raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com.

4. Whitelisting Mail Services:

Hotmail or MSN - Place raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com on what they call your Safe List. The "Safe List" can be accessed via the "Options" link, situated to the far right of the main menu tabs. NOTE: Hotmail's "safe list" often does not work.

USA.net - Login to your e-mail account and click on Services in the left-hand Navbar. You can Whitelist there. To configure your personal white list filters, follow these steps:
Determine what you would like done to the messages that match one of your filters. This generally fits into two categories, Override or Exclusive.
a.) Override allows you to override your spam filters, including system spam filtering, and is handy when you have mail that is occasionally incorrectly marked as spam by the system spam filters.
b.) Exclusive allows you to limit the mail you receive to only those messages that match your White List; all other mail messages will either be considered Junk Mail or automatically deleted. If you choose Exclusive, you will need to specify whether to keep the mail as Junk Mail or to delete the mail.
If you choose to delete all mail that does not match your White List, this mail cannot be recovered later.

Yahoo! Mail - If the Bulletin is filtered to your 'bulk' folder, open the message and click on the "This is not spam" link next to the "From" field. You can also create a "filter" at Yahoo that sends the Bulletin e-mail into your Inbox and not the Junk/Bulk Mail folder. Here's how:
1) Open your Yahoo e-mail. Left-click on "Mail Options" (right side of your screen). In the right hand column, under "Management," left-click on "Filters." And then, left-click on "Add Filter."
2) Call this filter "PCOS Health Review".
3) See where it says... "if all of the following rules are true ..."? Go to the top row labeled "From header," choose "contains" in the drop-down menu and type in raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com.
4) At the bottom, choose "Inbox" from the drop-down menu where it says "Move the message to:"
5) Finally, left-click on the "Add Filter" button.

Other Mail Services - Each mail service is a little different, but the idea is the same. If you can't find how to add the email addees to a whitelist, try adding them to your address book, or moving the messages from the Junk folder to your 'inbox' or forwarding the message to yourself (if you're getting it at all, that is). If e-mail continues to be filtered out, call or e-mail your mail service tech support or postmaster@your-mailservice.com and specifically ask how you can be sure to receive all e-mail from raoemo@sbcglobal.net & raoemo@mozcom.com.
[Source: http://www.wnd.com/resources/whitelist.asp Mar 07 ++]

AGENT ORANGE VAVA COMPENSATION: South Korean and Vietnamese veterans of the Vietnam War are demanding compensation from US manufacturers of Agent Orange, which they say has caused them ongoing illnesses. The veterans share a bitter past as well as present agony. What they claim are the lingering after-effects of the deadly defoliant sprayed by the US during the war. More than 4.7 million Vietnamese are said to continue to suffer from a range of illnesses, including birth defects, cardiovascular disease, cancer and nervous disorders because of the chemical defoliant dropped during the war in which South Korea fought alongside the U.S. troops. South Korean activists estimate the number of Korean victims of the chemicals at around 150,000. According to official data, South Korea dispatched about 320,000 soldiers to Vietnam to become the largest foreign contingent of U.S. allies fighting in the war, with 5,000 killed in action and nearly 11,000 others wounded.

Do Xuan Dien, 75-year-old former army major general and Vietnamese veteran, told Yonhap News Agency, “The past is bygone. South Korea and Vietnam are friends and partners for now and the future”. Dien came to Seoul for a week-long stay in his capacity as vice president of the Vietnam's Association of Victims of Agent Orange (VAVA). He is heading a nine-member delegation from the VAVA, which paid homage to the fallen soldiers at the National Cemetery in Seoul, along with around 120 members of the South Korean group of Agent Orange victims. “We are preparing for a lawsuit against the makers of Agent Orange. So we want to learn from the South Korean group's experience.” the grey-haired Vietnamese man said. Last year, a South Korean court ordered Dow Chemical Co. and Monsanto Co., two makers of Agent Orange, to pay US$62 million in compensation to thousands of South Korean Vietnam war veterans and their families. [Source: Thanh Nien News 09 Apr 07 ++]

RC POSTAL EMPLOYEE BACK PAY: As many as 100,000 National Guard and Reserve members who worked at the U.S. Postal Service between 1980 and 2000 could be eligible for thousands of dollars in compensation because they were improperly charged for military leave, under a new policy. The Merit Systems Protection Board decision greatly expands the scope of a larger back-pay issue that ultimately could cost the government a billion dollars, said Matthew Tully, a New York attorney who is representing affected employees pro bono. Previous rulings have held that between 150,000 and 200,000 Guard and Reserve members who worked for executive ranch agencies between 1980 and 2000 are eligible for back pay because of an erroneous leave policy. In a 7 MAR ruling, Miller v. U.S. Postal Service, MSPB said Reservists who worked at the Postal Service also are covered because that agency used the same policy. Tully said, “Next to the Defense Department, the Postal Service is the largest single employer of
Guard and Reserve members. Complying with the decision could cost the Postal Service upwards of $200 million. They’re probably going to have to jack up the price of stamps 3 or 4 cents just to pay for the outcome of this decision.”

The Postal Service did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Postal Service could appeal the ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, although that court in 2003 issued the landmark decision that employees were entitled to back pay because federal agencies improperly charged Reservists on military leave for days they were not scheduled to work at their federal jobs. The policy, which was changed in 2000, had charged reservists for every calendar day they were on military leave, instead of charging them for the actual work days they missed. Reservists who used their military leave because they were charged for weekends or other days they weren’t scheduled to work had to use their own vacation days or take leave without pay to complete their annual training. [Source:, Military Times Tim Kauffman article Apr 07 ++]

VA POLYTRAUMA WEBSITE: VA’s Polytrauma System of Care has a new website at http://www.polytrauma.va.gov. This site contains general information about Polytrauma and is home to a page for each of the four Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers and 17 additional Polytrauma Network Sites (the Rehabilitation Centers are considered Network Sites as well). Additionally, there are Polytrauma Support Clinic Teams. Current plans estimate the final number of these teams will be near 75. Additionally, current fact sheets for both Traumatic Brain Injury and Polytrauma are available on the VA Communications Management Intranet site: http://vaww.va.gov/webcom/guidance0307.asp. The files are titled, “Polytrauma Fact Sheet,” “TBI Talking Points,” and “TBI News Release.” [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 13 Apr 07 ++]

CANES FOR VETERANS: Can-Am Care, LLC, announced in APR the “HUGO Salutes Our Veterans” program to provide folding canes to World War II and Korean War Veterans. The HUGO Folding Canes with Interchangeable Handles will be provided at no charge to Veterans who may be in need of mobility assistance. According to Can-Am Care, the program is instituted to recognize the support and efforts members of the United States Armed Forces made for our country during World War II and the Korean War. Can-Am manufactures the HUGO Folding Cane and a number of related mobility assistance products. Veterans are encouraged to contact Can-Am Care at 1(888) 412-4992 M-F 08-1600 EST or refer to www.HUGOSalutes.com. Proof of service may be required. [Source: NAUS Weekly Update 13 Apr 07 ++]

WRAMC UPDATE 08: The Independent Review Group, created by Defense Secretary Robert Gates to identify shortcomings and needed improvements for patients and families at Walter Reed, Bethesda, and other casualty treatment centers, met on 11 APR to present draft findings and recommendations. The group identified significant shortcomings in transition from inpatient care to outpatient care, and in leadership, policy and oversight. The final report will be submitted to the Secretary of Defense by 16 APR 07. Some of the recommendations were to:
1). Improve case management and assign a family advocate to assist family members.
2). Improve case management and assign a family advocate to assist family members.
3). Create guidelines for screening and treating Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
4). Jointly with the VA create a TBI and PTSD Center of Excellence to coordinate research, training, and clinical guidelines.
5). Completely overhaul the Medical and Physical Evaluation Boards into one DoD/VA solution. Fitness for Duty determinations should be made by DoD, while disability ratings should be made by the VA.
6). Improve care provided to Reservists for service-connected injuries and illnesses.
7). Accelerate current BRAC plans to construct a joint Army/Navy medical center at the Navy medical center in Bethesda to speed transition for the severely wounded.
[Source: MOAA Leg Up 1 Apr 07 ++]

VETERANS DISABILITIES HEARING: On 12 APR a rare joint Senate Armed Services and Veterans Affairs hearing on Capitol Hill was held to hear testimony on the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs disability rating systems and the transition of service members from DoD to VA. Several key senators also took the opportunity to voice concerns over the Army's new 15-month deployment schedule. Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England and other senior DoD and VA witnesses testified at the hearing. Lt. Gen. Terry Scott, Chairman of the VDBC, pointed out some preliminary data that the VDBC has received indicates that there is a very large gap in what the DoD awards in disability to service members deemed to be unable to continue their military service and what the VA awards. He noted that since the year 2000 the Army had discharged 13,000 members who by Army standards did not qualify for even a 10% disability rating but when these same members went to the VA for adjudication they were
awarded an average of 56% disabilities.

He also cited significant disparities in disability ratings awarded by different services. Of 50,000 disability separations/retirements by the Army over the last 7 years, the Army granted 30-percent or higher disability ratings - which provides eligibility for disability retirement benefits - to only 13% of them. The disability retirement award rates for the Navy and Air Force were more than twice as high: 36% and 27%, respectively. The rate for the Marines was 18%. A number of senators questioned whether the Army in particular was "low-balling" soldiers' disabilities to save money. By policy, DoD's disability rating system limits the number of conditions rated and consistently rates lower than the VA. To fix the inequity, General Scott offered an initial recommendation that DoD should determine fitness for duty and the VA should then conduct a comprehensive physical and assign a disability rating.

This was quickly picked up by one of the Co-Chairs, Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI), Senate Armed Forces Committee Chairman who asked DoD Deputy Secretary Gordon England to provide the Department’s comments on this suggestion within two weeks. Additionally Scott pointed out the failures of the DoD and VA to come up with a viable solution to the problem of electronic transfer of medical records. Another committee member Sen. Hilary Clinton (D-NY) questioned why an entirely new system needed to be developed when one system, the VA’s VISTA system, was up and running very well and in fact was consistently winning awards from groups outside of the government. She further stated that DoD should quickly develop what it needs in the way of “battlefield” applications and work with the VA to make sure it integrates well with the existing system. For more info on Lt. Gen. Terry Scott’s testimony refer to http://armed-services.senate.gov/statemnt/2007/April/Scott%2004-12-07.pdf. [Source: NAUS
Weekly Update 13 Apr & MOAA Leg UP 14 Apr 07 ++]

VA PERFORMANCE REPORT: Continuing its commitment to give veterans a clear, meaningful view of how the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is performing, VA was recently rated by an independent research center as having one of the best annual performance reports in the federal sector for the eighth year in a row. The findings of this prestigious research center show that it was among the best in the federal sector at providing meaningful information to the American public about their operations and performance. Since 2000, the Mercatus Center of George Mason University has examined the performance and accountability reports issued annually by federal agencies. This year, VA tied for second-best in the federal government, receiving 51 points on a 60-point scale. VA also tied for having the highest score in transparency, an example of the Department’s commitment to provide information that is useful and easy to understand. The new Mercatus study named the “Eighth Annual Performance
Report Scorecard: Which Federal Agencies Best Inform the Public?” found VA’s reports are rich in information on efforts to improve programmatic and managerial performance. VA Secretary Nicholson said these findings show that VA has developed a management culture that sets high standards, measurable goals and accountability to the American public. VA published its latest performance and accountability report in NOV 06. It documents VA’s progress toward ensuring that America’s veterans and their families receive timely, compassionate, high-quality care and benefits. The Department’s report can be found on the Internet at: http://www.va.gov/budget/report. Anyone wishing to receive e-mail from VA with the latest news releases and updated fact sheets can subscribe to the VA Office of Public Affairs Distribution List at http://www1.va.gov/opa/pressrel/opa_ListServ.asp. [Source: Federal Record 4/13/07 ++]

MOBILIZED RESERVE 11 APR 07: The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard announced the current number of reservists on active duty as of 28 MAR 07 in support of the partial mobilization. The net collective result is 1,102 more reservists mobilized than last reported for 28 MAR 07. Total number currently on active duty in support of the partial mobilization for the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 63,689; Navy Reserve 6,404; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve 5,079; Marine Corps Reserve 5,514; and the Coast Guard Reserve 302. This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel, who have been mobilized, to 80,998, including both units and individual augmentees. At any given time, services may mobilize some units and individuals while demobilizing others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease. A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel, who are currently mobilized, can be found at
http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Apr2007/d20070411ngr.pdf.

The Marine Corps’ recent callup of some 1,800 Individual Ready Reserves (IRR) will near the limit of 2,500 IRR troops the Marines can put on active duty at one time. Nevertheless, Marine Commandant Gen. James Conway says he has no plans to ask the president to raise the limit. However, he told a Senate panel that the deployment tempo leaves Marines only enough time during their dwell period to conduct refresher training before re-deploying. He also acknowledged concern that the short turnaround time prevents the Corps from preparing for other contingencies because it is no longer conducting combined arms live-fire exercises at Twentynine Palms and said Marines are receiving little mountain-warfare, jungle or amphibious training. [Source: DoD News Release 11 Apr 07 ++]

WOUNDED WARRIOR USMC REGIMENT: Before the exposure of shoddy administration and lodging of wounded soldiers assigned to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Marine Commandant Gen. James Conway already was creating the framework for a wounded warrior regiment. Marine Col. Gregory Boyle took command of the regiment at the Quantico VA headquarters 1 APR. The regiment will have a battalion at Camp Pendleton CA and one at Camp Lejeune NC locations where facilities already are in operation. Boyle said, “The regiment will provide unity and continuity of command, with one commander responsible for meeting the needs of the wounded. The unit will help patients with evaluation boards and insurance claims as well as track them through the administrative bureaucracy of their recovery. It also will help them transition from the military health system to that of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and will follow up with them throughout the country”. [Source: Armed Forces News Issue 13 Apr 07 ++]

GREAT POND RECREATIONAL FACILITY: THE Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center is a four season recreational facility located 140 miles Northeast of NAS Brunswick in Great Pond, Maine. This 375 acre reservation boasts excellent fishing, hiking, canoe & kayaking as well as magnificent scenic vistas. It is available for use by Active, National Guard, Reservists, Retired, 100% DAV, and DoD Civilians. This pristine site offers many opportunities to explore the Maine woods via canoe or mountain bike. The facility offers:
• Wilderness campsites at $10/night year round.
• 18-site campground with water and electric hookups for campers. No sewer hookup at RV sites.
• Five cabins that range from $70/night to $540/week depending on size. They come equipped with a kitchen, bathroom w/shower, two bedrooms, and a loft. Some cabins have a sleeper sofa or the staff will roll in a couple of beds to accommodate extra guests.
• Bigelow Lodge from $90/night up to $750/week. Rooms include a kitchen, bathroom w/shower, two bedrooms, a loft, and two pullout couches for up to 12 guests.
• Two Yurts (a strong weather proof tent that can be used year round). One Yurt ($25/night $180/week) is located on Great Pond while the other is only accessible by boat on King’s Pond.
• Pets on a leash are allowed at Great Pond with a $5/day or $30 per week charge payable upon registration.
• Recreational Hall offering movies and games with a large stone fireplace that is used nightly by guests.
• Sailboats, kayaks, motorboats, and canoes are available for rent along with skiing and camping equipment, bed linen and towels.
• A small on site store that sells the bare essentials including bug spray, ice, wood, snacks, etc.

The nearest town is an hour’s drive (Bangor) and clear cellophane reception is only available in the middle of the pond. Visors may want to travel south to explore Acadia National Park or visit Canada, 70 miles east on route 9. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance at (207) 584-2000, greatpondoac@rivah.net , or via mail to Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Center, 9 Dow Pines Road, Great Pond, ME 04408. A 50% deposit is required. When booking weekends you must book for both Friday and Saturday. For additional info refer to www.mwr.navy.mil/mwrprgms/cabins/great_pond_brochure_ME.pdf. [Source: www.militarycampgrounds.us Apr 07 ++]

TRICARE ANENCEPHALY ABORTION: Congress has ruled that no federal funds should be used to pay for an abortion except where the life of the mother is at stake. This issue was put ot the test when a Navy family requested Tricare to pay for their abortion. The wife was pregnant with an anencephalic child. whose probability of surviving or of ever being conscious was zero. Anencephaly is the absence of all or a significant part of the fetal brain. It is untreatable and lethal. If a baby is not dead at birth, it might last a few days before succumbing. Tricare refused to pay the $3000 the abortion would cost in accordance with the ruling of congress. The family sued, and a federal court ordered Tricare to pay, and the abortion went forward. Subsequently, the Justice Department sued the family to recover the $3000. A panel of the Ninth Circuit ruled that, under a 1980 Supreme Court precedent upholding the Hyde Amendment -- a parallel provision to the one in question, but applying to
Medicaid recipients rather than to military families -- the law was valid and the government didn't have to pay for the abortion. The court wrote that although it, and surely all humankind, feels great sympathy for any parent faced with the truly horrifying diagnosis of anencephaly, it found that the law was clear. Consequently, the family was ordered to pay the money back. [Source: http://pharyngula.org/index/weblog/comments/anencephaly_and_right_wing_moralizers Aug 05 ++]

TRICARE SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE UPDATE 01: One of the first things on a new retiree’s checklist after leaving active duty is health care. If a second career is going to be undertaken most likely your employer will have some type of a health care plan. If you decide to use it Tricare will become a second payer to it. You should also consider out of pocket expense incurred for medical care outside the military system. If you decide to stick with Tricare you are subject to its copays and deductibles up to $3000 annual catastrophic cap limit per family. Private employers and some state governments are weighing the cost of providing optional Tricare supplemental Insurance as a way to save on the expense of benefits with the employer picking up the cost of the policy. It is cheaper for the employer who could save money and provide additional benefits in other areas. Tricare supplemental policies are offered by most military associations and some private firms and are designed to
reimburse you for your medical bills, copayments, and deductibles after Tricare pays the government’s share of the cost. In deciding whether or not to obtain a policy or to compare benefits in selecting one you should consider the following:

--- Must a deductible be met before the plan pays?
--- Is there a maximum limit on benefits?
--- Is there a pre-existing condition clause?
--- Is there a waiting period before the policy becomes effective?
--- Will the plan cover amounts beyond what Tricare allows?
--- Does the plan pay for services that are not covered by Tricare?
--- Does the plan specifically not cover certain conditions?
--- Must certain types of care be approved before treatment?
--- Is inpatient care covered?
--- Is there outpatient or long term coverage?
--- Will the plan pay the Tricare outpatient deductible?
--- Will the plan pay Tricare cost share under the Tricare diagnosis-related group payment system?
--- Will the plan pay Tricare Prime enrollment fees or copayments?
--- Does the plan offer reduced premiums or adjustments for participation in managed health care plans?
--- Does the plan convert to a Medicare supplement?
--- Is so, must it be in force for a certain period of time before conversion?
--- Does the plan cover care overseas?
--- What are the membership/association fees required to be eligible for the policy?
--- Can your premium payments be increased?
--- Does the plan offer rates based on military status (Active duty/Retired) or on an age scale?
--- Does coverage continue for surviving spouses at no charge?
--- What are the time limitations, if any, for filing a claim?
--- Are their higher rates for smokers or involvement in certain activities?
[Source: Navy Times Alex Keenan article 13 JUN 05 ++]

TRICHLOROETHYLENE (TCE) EXPOSURE: Trichloroethylene, or TCE, is found in toxic landfills and illegal dumps throughout the country. The EPA has reported that the colorless, sweet-smelling chemical has been identified as a major pollutant in 496 Superfund cleanup sites. Because of its solubility in water and its mobility in soil, TCE is the most frequently reported organic contaminant in groundwater. The chemical, which was once used as anesthesia, also is found in several household products, such as spot remover, rug cleaner and shoe polish. The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level for trichloroethylene in drinking water at 0.005 milligrams per liter (0.005 mg/L) or 5 parts of TCE per billion parts water. The EPA has also developed regulations for the handling and disposal of trichloroethylene. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set an exposure limit of 100 parts of trichloroethylene per million parts of air (100 ppm) for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour
workweek. When TCE enters the environment it:
- Dissolves a little in water, but it can remain in ground water for a long time.
- Quickly evaporates from surface water, so it is commonly found as a vapor in the air.
- Evaporates less easily from the soil than from surface water. It may stick to particles and remain for a long time.
- May stick to particles in water, which will cause it to eventually settle to the bottom sediment.
- Does not build up significantly in plants and animals.

Exposure can occur by:
- Breathing air in and around the home which has been contaminated with trichloroethylene vapors. Most of the trichloroethylene used in the U.S. is released into the air from industrial or commercial degreasing operations.
- From shower water or household products such as spot removers and typewriter correction fluid.
- Drinking, swimming, or showering in water that has been contaminated with TCE.
- Contact with soil contaminated with trichloroethylene, such as near a hazardous waste site.
- Contact with the skin or breathing contaminated air while manufacturing trichloroethylene or using it at work to wash paint or grease from skin or equipment.

Exposure impact on humans:
- Breathing small amounts may cause headaches, lung irritation, dizziness, poor coordination, and difficulty concentrating.
- Breathing large amounts of TCE may cause impaired heart function, unconsciousness, and death. Breathing it for long periods may cause nerve, kidney, and liver damage.
- Drinking small amounts of TCE for long periods may cause liver and kidney damage, impaired immune system function, and impaired fetal development in pregnant women, although the extent of some of these effects is not yet clear.
- Drinking large amounts of TCE may cause nausea, liver damage, unconsciousness, impaired heart function, or death.
- Skin contact with TCE for short periods may cause skin rashes.

If you have recently been exposed to TCE, it can be detected in your breath, blood, or urine. The breath test, if it is performed soon after exposure, can tell if you have been exposed to even a small amount of TCE. Exposure to larger amounts is assessed by blood and urine tests, which can detect TCE and many of its breakdown products for up to a week after exposure. However, exposure to other similar chemicals can produce the same breakdown products, so their detection is not absolute proof of exposure to trichloroethylene. This test isn't available at most doctors' offices, but can be done at special laboratories that have the right equipment. For additional information on this and other contaminates refer to www.atsdr.cdc.gov. [Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Apr 07 ++]

PHILIPPINE DEERS REGISTRATION UPDATE 02: Effective immediately the DEERS/RAPIDS ID Card workstation located at window 3 in the Social Security and Veteran s Affairs section at the U.S. Embassy Manila will be open on a first come, first served basis on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All questions should be directed to SPC Babcock @ 0920-911-8964 on TUE & THUR between the hours of 08-1700. Workstation hours of operation are as follows:
- MON-WED-FRI Closed
- TUE & THUR 08-1100 & 1400-1630.
- Closed on all weekends and U.S./Philippine federal holidays.

The following personnel are eligible for DOD ID Cards:
- Active duty members, retired members, and members of the Reserve components not on active duty in excess of 30 days.
- Retired Reserve members who have reached their 60th birthday.
- Family members of military sponsors on active duty for more than 30 consecutive days.
- Family members of retirees (with pay).
- Family members of Ready Reserve (Selected, Individual and Standby Reservists) Family members of Retired Reservists, who have qualified for retired pay at age 60, yet have not reached age 60.
- Un-remarried or unmarried former spouses previously enrolled in DEERS.
- Medal of Honor recipients and their eligible family members.
- One hundred percent disabled veterans and their family members. One hundred percent must result from one or more rated disabilities. Those who receive 100% as a result of unemployable status are not eligible.
- Former members having reached age 60 and in receipt of retired pay for non-regular service, and their family members.

Also eligible are survivors of the following:
- Active duty members.
- Retired with pay members.
- Reserve members on active or inactive duty.
- Retirement-eligible reservists who died prior to transfer to the Retired Reserve (Reservists who were still participating).
- Retired reserve members who qualify for pay at age 60 but die before reaching age 60.

As a general guideline, it is highly recommended the sponsor be present when renewing ID cards. If the sponsor cannot be present, have the sponsor go to their nearest DEERS/RAPIDS ID Card section and print out a DD Form 1172 for whatever dependents are having their ID cards renewed. The sponsor MUST be present when initially enrolling a dependent in DEERS. If not, the sponsor will have to enroll you in DEERS from whatever duty station he/she is currently serving or is closest and send you a DD Form 1172. Upon receipt you may come in to get an ID card. Bring at least three (3) forms of ID with you to the US Embassy as you will have to surrender two (2) of them to guard stations before coming to the Social Security section. If you do not meet any of the above requirements but believe you are entitled to benefits, do not hesitate to call. SPC Babcock will work with you in preparing an information packet and present it to a service project officer on your behalf. If they approve
your case, you will receive all entitled benefits as well as an ID card. At no point will you be charged for anything inclusive of all ID cards, forms and assistance. If someone is trying to charge for something relating to DEERS/RAPIDS call 0920-911-8964 and advise Babcock of the details. [Source: JUSMAG SPC Babcock Apr 07 ++]

VA CLAIM FIXERS: The US Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) is receiving an increasingly number of claims for VA benefits from veterans or survivors who avail of the services of a “Claims Fixer”. VA often finds these claims contain fraudulent evidence that has been submitted by the Fixer. When it is suspected that a claim involves a Fixer it is investigated with a resultant delay in processing the claim. If it is determined that fraud was committed, the veteran’s right to VA benefits is forfeited. This is a lifetime forfeiture meaning the veteran and /or their dependents lose all rights to ever be considered for VA benefits for the rest of their lives. Claim Fixers have no connection within VA. If approached by someone claiming to have an “IN” with the VA, the VA office should be notified immediately. Claim Fixers cannot affect the outcome of your claim. They can only jeopardize your entitlement to VA benefits.

To protect yourself against Claim Fixers:
- Avoid them. Anyone charging a fee to assist you is a claims fixer.
- Do not sign any form unless it is completely filled out and all the information contained on the form is accurate. If possible, you should fill out the forms yourself.
- Do not sign any affidavits or statements unless they are accurate.
- Do not sign any statement in support of another person’s claim unless the information is accurate.
- Do not submit any medical evidence or doctor’s statements unless the information is factual.
- Do not allow any affidavits or statements to be submitted in support of your claim unless the information in the document is accurate.
- Do not pay someone the benefits you have earned in defense of your country. They have no right to those benefits.

If you have questions about VA benefits or services, contact the USDVA in your geographic area. The USDVA has representatives available to assist you with your claim. In the Philippines you may visit them at the US Embassy in Manila or call them at no charge on a PLDT line at 1-800-1888-5252. If you live in Metro Manila, you may dial 528-2500. You may also visit the website: https://iris.va.gov for more information. VA doe not charge for any service or assistance they provide [Source: USDVA Manila Director Jon Skelly Apr 07 ++]

NATIONAL PARK PASSPORTS UPDATE 01: The National Park Service is an participant in the new Interagency Pass Program which was created by the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act and authorized by Congress in DEC 04. Participating agencies include the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture - Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Reclamation. The pass series, referred to collectively as the America the Beautiful Pass, went sale 1 JAN 07. It replaces the former Golden Age, Golden Access, and Golden Eagle pass. The new series consist of the following:

- America the Beautiful Annual Pass: This pass is available to the general public at a cost of $80. It provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee for a year, beginning from the date of sale. The pass admits the pass holder/s and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults, at per person fee areas. (children under 16 are admitted free) The pass can be obtained in person at the park, by calling 1(888) ASK USGS, Ext. 1, or via the Internet at http://store.usgs.gov/pass.
- America