Religious Program Specialist Corner

New UCMJ Article, Uniforms, Patriot Express, Korea Liberty Policy and Floating Checks

2004-09-27T16:58:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1- Anti-Prostitution Rule

2- Mandatory Uniforms

3- Termination of Patriot Express

4- Commander Explains Patriot Express Determination

5- Liberty Policy for Korea

6- Floating Checks

-------------------------------------------------------

Anti-Prostitution Rule

Anti-Prostitution Rule Drafted For U.S. ForcesBy Pauline Jelinek, Associated PressU.S. service members stationed overseas could face a court-martial for patronizing prostitutes under a new regulation drafted by the Pentagon.The move is part of a Defense Department effort to reduce the possibility that service members will contribute to human trafficking in areas near their overseas bases by seeking the services of women forced into prostitution.In recent years, "women and girls are being forced into prostitution for a clientele consisting largely of military services members, government contractors and international peacekeepers" in such places as South Korea and the Balkans, Rep. Christopher H. Smith (R-N.J.) said yesterday at a Capitol Hill forum on Pentagon anti-trafficking efforts.Defense officials have drafted an amendment to the manual on courts-martial that would make it an offense for service members to use the services of prostitutes, said Charles S. Abell, a Pentagon undersecretary for personnel and readiness.If approved, the amendment would make it a military offense under the Uniform Code of Military Justice to have contact with a prostitute, Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke, an Abell spokeswoman, said later. The draft rule is open to 60 days of public comment after being published in the Federal Register, she said.Officials also are developing a training program for service members and contractors, to be distributed in November. The program will explain trafficking, department policy on it and possible legal action against violators, Abell said in a written statement.Additionally, the military is reviewing regulations and procedures for placing off-limits those businesses where such activities take place and working with Justice Department officials to tighten rules on contractor misconduct.Gen. Leon J. LaPorte, commander of the 37,000 U.S. service members in South Korea, said another initiative started on the peninsula has been to "make on-base military life a more desirable experience, and attempt to diminish the seductive appeal of many of the less wholesome off-duty pursuits."That effort includes offering expanded evening and weekend education programs, band concerts, late-night sports leagues and more chaplain activities.All new arrivals to duty in South Korea are instructed against prostitution and human trafficking, and the military is working with South Korean law enforcement agencies, he said.NATO officials in July outlined new guidelines adopted to ensure alliance peacekeepers do not encourage sex trafficking gangs by seeking the services of women forced into prostitution.

--------------------------------------------------------

Mandatory Possession dates for the Marine Corps Combat Utility/Uniforms and MCCB Boots

SUBJ/MANDATORY POSSESSION DATES FOR THE MARINE CORPS COMBAT UTILITY/UNIFORMS (MCCUU) AND MARINE CORPS COMBAT BOOTS (MCCB)//
REF/A/MSG/CMC/20MAY2002//
REF/B/MSG/CMC/26JUNE2003//
REF/C/MSG/CMC/27JUNE2003//POC/M. BOYT/-/-/-/TEL:(703)432-4607/EMAIL:BOYTMK@MCSC.USMC.MIL//
NARR/REF A IS ALMAR 028/02, COMBAT UTILITY UNIFORM AND BOOTGUIDANCE.REF B IS MARADMIN 310/03, CHANGE TO THE MANDATORY POSSESSIONDATES FOR THE MARINE CORPS COMBAT BOOTS (MCCB) (HOT WEATHER) ANDMARINE CORPS COMBAT UTILITY UNIFORM (MCCUU) WOODLAND MARINE PATTERN(MARPAT). REF C IS MARADMIN 312/03, ANNOUNCING MARINE CORPS COMBATUTILITY UNIFORMS AVAIL THROUGH NEXCOM.//GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. THIS MARADMIN SERVES AS A REMINDER OF THEDEADLINE FOR MANDATORY POSSESSION OF MINIMUM QUANTITIES OF THE MCCUUAND MCCB AND PROVIDES GUIDANCE FOR THOSE FEW MARINES STILL UNABLE TOPROCURE THE REQUIRED ITEMS.A. MANDATORY POSSESSION REQUIREMENT/DATE. PER REFS A AND B,EFFECTIVE 1 OCTOBER 2004, THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENT OF MCCUU AND MCCBIS AS FOLLOWS:- 1 SET DESERT MCCUU (INCLUDING 1 GARRISON CAP AND 1 BOONIE HAT)- 1 SET WOODLAND MCCUU (INCLUDING 1 GARRISON CAP AND 1 BOONIE HAT)- 1 PAIR MCCB (HOT WEATHER)- 1 PAIR MCCB (TEMPERATE WEATHER)B. OBSOLESCENCE OF THE BLACK/GREEN COMBAT BOOTS. PER REFS A AND B,EFFECTIVE 1 OCTOBER 2004, BLACK COMBAT BOOTS AND BLACK AND GREENJUNGLE BOOTS ARE DEEMED OBSOLETE AND ARE NO LONGER AUTHORIZED FORWEAR. MARINES MAY CONTINUE TO WEAR BLACK SPECIAL/ORGANIZATIONALISSUE BOOTS (I.E., SAFETY AND FLIGHT BOOTS) PER THE COMMANDER'SGUIDANCE. HOWEVER, THOSE BOOTS DO NOT SATISFY THE MINIMUM MCCBREQUIREMENTS.C. ENFORCEMENT OF MANDATORY POSESSION DATES. A CAREFUL REVIEW OFAVAILABLE INVENTORY AND PRODUCTION SCHEDULES FOR BOTH THE MCCUUAND MCCB INDICATES THE MAJORITY OF MARINES ARE ABLE TO MEET THE1 OCTOBER 2004 MANDATORY POSSESSION DATE; THEREFORE, THAT DATE WILLNOT BE ADJUSTED. REGARDLESS, SOME MARINES MAY EXPERIENCE DIFFICULTYMEETING THE MANDATORY POSSESSION DATE FOR REASONS BEYOND THEIRCONTROL (E.G., "HARD TO FIT" SIZE OR REMOTE DUTY LOCATION).ACCORDINGLY, THE FOLLOWING GUIDANCE IS PROVIDED.(1) COMMANDS WILL WORK WITH THOSE MARINES UNABLE TO MEET THE1 OCTOBER 2004 DEADLINE TO PROCURE THE REQUIRED ITEMS. ON ACASE-BY-CASE BASIS, COMMANDERS MAY LOCALLY EXTEND THE MANDATORYPOSSESSION DATE TO 1 APRIL 2005, BUT NO FURTHER EXTENSIONS AREAUTHORIZED. WHEN SUCH AN EXTENSION IS GRANTED, A PAGE 11 ENTRY WILLBE MADE IN THE MARINE'S SERVICE RECORD BOOK/OFFICER QUALIFICATIONRECORD. AT A MINIMUM, THE ENTRY WILL CITE THIS MARADMIN ASAUTHORITY FOR THE EXTENSION, IDENTIFY THE DATE OF THE EXTENDEDDEADLINE, AND STATE THE REASON FOR THE EXTENSION (E.G., "HARD TOFIT" SIZE, REMOTE DUTY LOCATION, ETC.).(2) FOR "HARD TO FIT" MARINES (I.E. UNUSUAL SIZES), COMMANDERS AREENCOURAGED TO COORDINATE WITH MARINE CORPS SYSTEMS COMMAND (PM ICE,ATTN: MS. DEE TOWNES (FOR MCCUU) DSN 256-4296 AND MS. CHRISTIEFOSTER (FOR MCCB) DSN 378-3318) TO PROCURE THOSE ITEMS. REF C ALSOPROVIDES FOR TELEPHONE AND MAIL ORDERS OF ONE SET OF EACH MCCUU ANDMCCB VIA NEXCOM.
2. THIS MARADMIN IS APPLICABLE TO THE MARINE CORPS TOTAL FORCE.
3. QUESTIONS MAY BE REFERRED TO MS. M. BOYT, MCUB (EMAIL"BOYTMK@MCSC.USMC.MMIL"), AT (703)432-4607 OR DSN 378-4607.//

---------------------------------------------------------

Patriot Express Flights to be Eliminated

Patriot Express Flights To Be Eliminated By Jennifer H. SvanStars and StripesPacific Edition February 5, 2004
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan — Citing cost, flexibility and empty seats, the Defense Department plans to eliminate almost all Patriot Express routes starting in fiscal 2006.
Patriot Express is the military's chartered commercial air service.
The change will require servicemembers on permanent change of station orders and their families to take commercial flights to and from overseas locations, Air Mobility Command officials said in a news release last week. Fewer Patriot Express flights also mean fewer space-available seats for servicemembers, civilians, families and retirees on leisure travel.
In South Korea and Japan, Patriot Express will be phased out over a two-year period, an AMC spokesman told Stripes via e-mail.
The service will cease at Osan and Kunsan air bases, South Korea, and at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, in fiscal 2006. The Patriot Express gateway at Los Angeles International Airport also will close that year, as will the passenger reservation center at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
In fiscal 2007, Japan service will end at Yokota and Misawa air bases, and Iwakuni Marine Corps Air Station; and the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport gateway and Yokota's passenger reservation center also will close.
The passenger reservation center helps duty passengers make reservations for permanent change of station moves, said Capt. Krishaan Anderson, officer in charge of operations at Yokota's AMC passenger terminal.
Across the globe, all Patriot Express routes will be phased out over a four-year period, except at locations with no commercial service or where there are force-protection considerations, AMC officials said.
Patriot Express routes to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Diego Garcia will continue, said an AMC spokesman. And the Baltimore-Washington Airport gateway will remain to service Patriot Express force protection requirements and locations with no Defense Department-approved commercial airline service, the spokesman said.
He said the restructuring plan will save the Defense Department about $67 million per year — once fully implemented in fiscal 2008 — "by eliminating a duplicate service that can be obtained for less money and with greater flexibility from the commercial sector."
Anderson said the military will pay to send servicemembers and families on permanent change of station orders by commercial flight.
"What they're saying is it's a lot cheaper to send them commercial and not have to worry about contracting a whole aircraft," he said. Patriot Express was "set up mainly to do PCS moves," he said.
Patriot Express — known by different names over the years — has provided regular passenger service from the United States to 27 overseas locations since the 1960s.
AMC officials said Patriot Express handles more than 340,000 passengers annually but official fliers fill just more than two thirds of the seats. DOD passengers on leisure travel vie for the remaining seats on a space-available or priority basis.
"There was usage, no doubt, but not everything was filled up," Anderson said. "That's where space-a came in, because it was almost a guarantee, especially during the winter time," when fewer people relocate to a new base.
The only charge for space-available fliers is a $23 international head tax, Anderson said.
Each Patriot Express flight has from 325 to 350 seats. About three Patriot Express flights typically service Yokota during a two-week period, Anderson said.
At Misawa Air Base, more than 3,200 passengers flew Patriot Express as space-a or duty passengers in 2003, said Staff Sgt. Mikal Canfield. About 1,500 seats were unused — enough for six empty flights, he said.
"Although space-a will continue to be available at Misawa, we cannot project what kinds of flights will be available to Misawa residents two years from now," Canfield said. "Just as anywhere else in the world, people at Misawa will have to use commercial airlines if space-a service is not available."
Anderson said no plans currently exist to offer more space-available seats on military aircraft in the Pacific after Patriot Express ends.
AMC officials said duty passengers will travel on commercial airlines through the General Service Administration's City Pair program. Airfares offered under this program — available for federal travelers on official business — average a 74 percent discount off comparable commercial fares, according to the GSA Web site: www.gsa.gov.
Sound Off...What do you think? Join the discussion.

This article is provided courtesy of Stars & Stripes, which got its start as a newspaper for Union troops during the Civil War, and has been published continuously since 1942 in Europe and 1945 in the Pacific. Stripes reporters have been in the field with American soldiers, sailors and airmen in World War II, Korea, the Cold War, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Bosnia and Kosovo, and are now on assignment in the Middle East.
Stars & Stripes Website
--------------------------------------------------------

AMC Commander explains Patriot Express cutbacks

AMC commander explains Patriot Express cutbacks -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Story Tools Printable story E-mail story
Subscribe now
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Related Stories • Patriot Express missions diverted to support redeployments - 2/12/2004
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Related Links • Gen. John W. Handy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
by Staff Sgt. Jason Lake18th Wing Public Affairs
3/8/2004 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan (AFPN) -- Air Mobility Command officials announced in February that the Patriot Express, a transit system for official travelers mainly in the Pacific and Europe, would be dramatically scaled down during the next few years.
During a visit here, Gen. John W. Handy, AMC commander, explained why the program will be cut back.
"The real issue boils down to the financial support of a mission that didn't generate the customer base to support it," said General Handy, who is also the commander of U.S. Transportation Command. "The services buy the space on Patriot Express, and what we found over time is that people don't use the Patriot Express."
Then why the packed seats on each flight?
Most of the seats used on the Patriot Express flights have been by space-available travelers, General Handy said.
"The Patriot Express is popular with space-available travelers, but the people who are supposed to travel on it (usually) get a commercial ticket," he said.
General Handy said what it all comes down to is cutting costs of a program that has not been used to its potential.
"Right now the services are paying for the commercial ticket and the seats on the Patriot Express," he said. "The bottom line was a $12- to $14-million loss every year out of service operations and maintenance budgets. As the military services looked at it, it made sense that if people are voting with their feet and using commercial travel, it made no sense to continue to pay for Patriot Express."
General Handy said there are still some issues being worked out, such as pet travel. But he assured people stationed overseas that the goal will be to make things as easy as possible.
"We will continue to work hard because the bottom line, regardless of the cost, we want to do the things that will support our families as they move back and forth between (duty station) changes," he said.
Space-A flights on other military aircraft will help get some travelers to where they need to go, but with the ongoing war on terrorism, seats are limited, General Handy said.
"The normal assets that are traveling around this theater and the rest of the world that would provide seats for space-available travel are consumed by supporting the war in Iraq or Afghanistan or other places in the world, which includes this theater," he said. "While we are engaged as heavily as we are, (we are) not going to see the space-available travel that would normally expect, but it’s not going to be that way all the time."
The routes will be restructured based on planned elimination or closing of service locations, AMC officials said.
In fiscal 2005, the Atlanta gateway will close, and Patriot Express flights to Rhein-Main Air Base, Germany, will end. Military officials will also adjust the frequency and size of flights to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Naval Air Station Keflavik, Iceland.
In fiscal 2006, service will end to here; Osan and Kunsan air bases, South Korea; NAS Keflavik, Iceland; and Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England. The reservation center at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, and the gateway at Los Angeles International Airport will also close.
Fiscal 2007 marks the end of service to three American bases in Japan: Yokota and Misawa air bases and the Marine Corps Air Station, Iwakuni, as well as the Japan passenger reservation center. The Seattle gateway will also close, and AMC's main reservation center at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., will increase its operating hours.
In the last phase, slated for fiscal 2008, service will end to Lajes Field, Azores; Aviano AB, Italy; Rota, Spain; and Sigonella, Sicily. The reservation center in Germany will close, and AMC's center will begin continuous operations.
-----------------------------------------

Liberty Policy for Korea

Copy ___of ___Copies HQ, USFK CC Seoul, ROK 232000(I) SEP 04
USFK FRAGMENTARY ORDER #04-21 (USFK Force Protection Enhancements)
References.a. USFK OPORD 5050-02 (Anti-terrorism), dated 7 Aug 02.b. USFK FRAGO 04-11 (Increased Security Awareness), dated 12 Mar 04.c. USFK FRAGO 04-17 (USFK Force Protection Enhancements), dated 7 Aug 04.d. USFK FRAGO 04-18 (USFK Force Protection Enhancements), dated 18 Aug 04.
Time Zone. India.
Task Organization. No Change.
1. SITUATION. US Embassy-Seoul issued Security Notice # 2004-21 indicating an increased potential for demonstrations and violent actions against US personnel, installations, and facilities in Korea.
2. MISSION. Effective 241200(I) SEP 04, USFK implements additional Force Protection enhancements and amends current off-post curfew hours in order to maximize security and ensure the safety of USFK service members, DoD civilians, contractors, and family members.
3. EXECUTION.
a. Intent.
Purpose. To increase security of USFK installations and facilities and to ensure the safety of USFK service members, DoD civilians, contractors and family members (USFK personnel). Key Tasks:· Implement a peninsula-wide off-post curfew of 2100-0500 daily from 24 Sep 04 until rescinded. · Reduce installation access points to the absolute minimum. · Strictly enforce access control at entry points, and conduct random vehicle searches.· Increase patrolling of all installations through the use of base defense augmentation. · Re-emphasize use of the Buddy System.
End State: USFK personnel are aware of the increased threat and have taken measures to ensure their safety. Component commanders have implemented measures to increase the security of personnel, installations, and facilities, while continuing to maintain Armistice operations and training to the greatest extent possible.
b. Concept of the Operation. USFK implements additional Force Protection Condition Measures throughout the Republic of Korea. Commanders must focus on areas and facilities susceptible to surveillance or access and take immediate action to protect these vulnerable points.
c. Tasks to Subordinate Units.
Commanders/Service Components.
(a) Ensure that all measures contained in FP Conditions Normal through BRAVO are being met, in accordance with USFK OPORD 5050-02.
(b) Implement the following FP Condition Charlie measures NLT 241200(I) SEP 04:
1. # 32: Reduce installation access points to the absolute minimum.
2. # 33: Strictly enforce access control at entry points, and conduct random vehicle searches.
3. #36: Increase patrolling of all installations through the use of base defense augmentation.
(c) Implement a peninsula-wide off-post curfew of 2100-0500 daily from 24 Sep 04 until rescinded. (d) Consider increasing MWR activities and hours of operation on all US installations.
(e) Upon compliance with this directive, notify CC-Seoul via e-mail to CC Seoul Operations Center at CCSEOUL@korea.army.mil. Send a courtesy copy to J34, Force Protection.
(2) USFK Public Affairs Office (PAO).
(a) Refer all queries to the USFK PAO. USFK is adhering to the personal security awareness guidance recommended by the US Embassy for all American personnel.
d. Coordinating Instructions. POC for this FRAGO is MAJ Sean Murphy, USFK J-34 (Force Protection), DSN 723-3691, Sean.Murphy@korea.army.mil.
4. SERVICE SUPPORT. N/A.
5. COMMAND AND SIGNAL. N/A.
ACKNOWLEDGE: Receipt to CC Seoul Operations Center via phone DSN 723-3030, or by e-mail to CC SEOUL EOC.

LAPORTE GENOFFICIAL:COGGINJ3
------------------
Floating Checks

In case you haven't heard.
As of 28 October, 2004 it will no longer be possible to float acheck. A new law goes into effect on 28 Oct and all checks will be clearedelectronically within minutes... even at night, even on weekends. Ifpayday is Monday and you write a check on Saturday assuming it won't clearbefore your paycheck is in you will be wrong-that check will vunce. And ou will be charged overdraft fees.
Be aware of what you are doing and the affect it could have on yourcredit rating or career. Make sure funds are available before you write acheck.
http://www.federalreserve.gov/paymentsystems/truncation/default.htm
Here are some highlights of "Check 21" starting in late October:
You've probably bought something in a store with a check even thoughyou don't have the money in your account at the time. You figure you havea few days for the check to clear, and by then the money will be there.It's called the "float." Well, the float is slowly becoming a thing of thepast. Because of a new law going into effect in October, money will bedrafted from your account immediately when you write a check. It's called"Check 21," and it allows retailers to scan your check through a machinethat deducts the cash within minutes. It's essentially the end of thepaper check system, as well, because the check will eventually be destroyed. There will be an image of the check online and that will serve as proof if you need it. But everything is becoming electronic, and a bank will know if a check is good right away. So, be prepared to move to an electronic bill pay system.
It's the smart way to go. What about checks that you deposit? Well,the float is no longer available to you, the customer. But the bank stillwill hold a deposit for a few days to make sure it clears. It's not fair,but it's the way it's happening.
What are the main effects of "Check 21" on consumers? * You won't be able to get your original paper checks back, becauseyour bank will no longer have them.
* Checks you write will clear sooner, increasing the risk that acheck will bounce if funds are not in the account when you write thecheck. Don't write a check unless the funds are already in the account tocover it.
*You may not get access to the funds from checks you deposit anysooner, because the new law does not shorten check hold times. After 30months, there must be a study on whether banks are making funds availableto consumers earlier than the allowable hold periods.
* Banks will save money on processing checks, but banks are notrequired to share these savings with consumers.
* Different kinds of copies of a check will have different rightsattached. Check 21 creates a new kind of paper copy of an electronic imageof a check. This special kind of copy is called a "substitute check."Only a substitute check can be the legal equivalent of the original check,and only a substitute check triggers your right to recredit of disputed funds. A regular copy of a check does not carry these same protections. If you ask for a copy of a check, your bank may send you an ordinary copy instead of this special kind of copy which triggers legal rights and protections unless you ask for a substitute check.
* A bank other than your bank will have your original check, andwill decide whether to destroy it. Neither Check 21 nor other law requiresa bank to keep your original check for any period of time.
* Before Check 21, your own bank decided how long to keep youroriginal checks if you didn't get them returned with your statement. UnderCheck 21, the bank of the person you wrote the check to may decide when todestroy your check.
* Consumers will get new rights for some electronically processedchecks, but not for others. When a so-called "substitute check" isprovided to a consumer, Check 21 gives the consumer a right to have fundsof up to $2,500 recredited to the consumer's account in 10 business daysif the check is paid twice, paid for the wrong amount, or otherwise paidin error. The statute is ambiguous about whether this new right applieswhen a paper substitute check is used in the processing of the check butis not returned to the consumer. The regulations restrict the right ofrecredit only to checks where the consumer was provided with a substitutecheck.
* If a check is processed electronically by all the banks it isrouted through without the use of a substitute check and the consumer isnot provided with a substitute check, then the check remains under statecheck law. In that case, the consumer does not receive a 10 day right ofre-credit even if the electronic image of the check is paid twice, paidfor the wrong amount, or if both the electronic image and the paper checkare paid.
* Consumers who want to maximize their consumer rights should askfor return of "substitute checks" with their checking account statements.Watch out for fees associated with a substitute check-returning account.Look for another bank if your bank charges a high fee to get copies of allyour checks as substitute checks.
* Only the special "substitute check" can be legally equivalent tothe original check to prove payment. The copies that a bank sends toconsumers under a so-called "voluntary truncation" agreement, where theconsumer agrees not to get the checks back, do not prove that a payment asbeen made, and do not trigger your Check 21 re-credit right.
When do these changes go into effect? Check 21 becomes effective October 28, 2004.
Infomercial brought to you by Mr.Clark (N5) and Staff Manpower/Personnel.

Navy Uniform News and Substitute Exams

2004-09-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Here is some good news that you can use

1. Osaka Lounge Access for Military Personnel

2. Navy Uniforms

3. Navy Substitute Exams

-------------------------------------------------------

Osaka Lounge Access for Military Personnel

Good Morning MCCS!
Some news you can use!
Osaka Lounge Access for Military Personnel (effective September 20, 2004)
United is pleased to announce an exclusive service for U.S. military personnel and their family members traveling to and from Osaka, Japan.
Effective September 20, 2004, United military passengers traveling between Okinawa Japan and the U.S. via Osaka will be allowed to used the "Kanku Lounge" in the domestic terminal at the Kansai (KIX) Airport in Osaka. The "Kanku Lounge" is operated by the local airport authority.
Eligibility: Any U.S. military personnel and their families who are traveling to Osaka on United's daily nonstop flights from San Francisco (UA885,) Chicago (UA877) or Honolulu (UA833) and connecting on to Okinawa or from Okinawa via Osaka connecting to United's daily nonstop San Francisco (UA886) flight are entitled to use the "Kanku Lounge." The Osaka-Okinawa flights are operated by our Star Alliance and code share partner, All Nippon Airways.
Accessing: To have access to the lounge, traveler must show their military identification card and United ticket and/or boarding pass.
Kanku Lounge Location: This lounge is located in the domestic terminal next to the domestic north departure area. The lounge is open from 0800 to 2000. The lounge has coffee, magazines, newspapers and access to the internet. For more information about the airport and the lounge, visit: http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/english/map/ter2f.htm.
Program Duration: September 20 through December 31, 2004.

----------------------------------------------------------
Navy Uniforms

R 101710Z SEP 04 ZYB MIN
FM CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1//
TO NAVADMIN
UNCLAS //N01020//
NAVADMIN 209/04
MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N1/-/SEP//
SUBJ/NAVY UNIFORMS//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. THE CNO HAS APPROVED WEAR TEST STUDIES OF PROPOSED NEW UNIFORMS FOR OFFICERS AND ENLISTED AND APPROVED SEVERAL SIGNIFICANT REGULATION CHANGES TO EXISTING UNIFORMS. THE PROPOSED NEW UNIFORMS, DEVELOPED WITH SAILORS INPUT THROUGH TASK FORCE UNIFORM, WILL SOON BEGIN WEAR TESTING TO DETERMINE FEASIBILITY FOR NAVY USE. THE UNIFORM WEAR TESTS DO NOT HOWEVER CONSTITUTE APPROVAL OF THE CONCEPT UNIFORMS.
2. THE UNIFORMS TO BE TESTED ARE FOUR VARIATIONS OF THE NAVY WORKING UNIFORM (NWU) THAT WILL BE WORN BY E-1 THROUGH O-10, TWO VARIATIONS OF A YEAR ROUND SERVICE UNIFORM (SERVICE BLUE) FOR E-6 AND BELOW, TWO VARIATIONS OF PULLOVER JERSEY SWEATERS, SEVERAL REDESIGNED UNISEX GARRISON CAPS AND A SMALLER VERSION (2/3 SIZE) OF NAVY IDENTIFICATION BADGES. IF APPROVED, THE NWU WILL REPLACE THE UTILITY, WORKING KHAKI, COVERALL (WITH ACCOUTREMENTS), TROPICAL KHAKI, TROPICAL UTILITY, WINTER WORKING BLUE, AVIATION GREEN AND CAMOUFLAGE (NON-TACTICAL ENVIRONMENT) WORKING UNIFORMS. SERVICE BLUE WILL REPLACE SUMMER WHITE AND WINTER BLUE UNIFORMS; PULLOVER JERSEY SWEATER WILL REPLACE THE CURRENT ALL WOOL SWEATER; AND THE REDESIGNED GARRISON CAP WILL REPLACE THE CURRENT GARRISON CAPS. THE BLACK GARRISON CAP WILL ALSO BE EVALUATED FOR USE AS AN OPTIONAL COVER IN LIEU OF THE COMBINATION CAP FOR E-7 AND ABOVE WEARING THE SERVICE DRESS BLUE UNIFORM. FLEET, FORCE, AND CNO DIRECTED COMMAND MASTER CHIEFS WILL NOMINATE PARTICIPANTS FROM A VARIETY OF COMMANDS, WARFARE COMMUNITIES, AND LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE FLEET. A FUTURE NAVADMIN WILL FURTHER DEFINE PARTICIPATING COMMANDS AND LOGISTIC REQUIREMENTS TO SUPPORT EXECUTION OF THIS INITIATIVE.
3. UNIFORM REGULATION CHANGES INCLUDE WOMEN'S SKIRTS, COMMAND SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER IDENTIFICATION BADGES, CIVILIAN BAGS, WOMEN'S HANDBAGS, COMMUNICATION DEVICES AND BREAST INSIGNIA. THE FOLLOWING UNIFORM POLICY CHANGES WILL BECOME EFFECTIVE AS FOLLOWS:
A. WOMEN'S SKIRTS: EFFECTIVE 1 OCT 04, SKIRTS WILL BE AN OPTIONAL UNIFORM COMPONENT AND MAY NO LONGER BE PRESCRIBED. GABARDINE AND POLY WOOL SKIRTS WILL CONTINUE TO BE ISSUED UNTIL 1 OCT 05. THE CNT AND POLY/COTTON WHITE SKIRTS WILL NO LONGER BE ISSUED. FY-05 CLOTHING REPLACEMENT ALLOWANCES WILL BE ADJUSTED TO REFLECT THIS CHANGE.
B. COMMAND SENIOR ENLISTED IDENTIFICATION BADGES: EFFECTIVE 1 OCT 04, AUTHORIZED TO WEAR INSIGNIA: MCPON, FLEET MASTER CHIEF, FORCE MASTER CHIEF, CNO-DIRECTED COMMAND MASTER CHIEF, COMMAND MASTER CHIEF AND CHIEF OF THE BOAT.
(1) THE MINIATURE COMMAND SENIOR ENLISTED IDENTIFICATION BADGE WILL BE WORN WITH ALL UNIFORMS EXCEPT FULL DRESS UNIFORMS.
(A) INCUMBENTS WEAR THE MINIATURE SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER BADGE ON THE RIGHT BREAST CENTERED 1/4 INCH ABOVE THE POCKET. ON UNIFORMS WITHOUT BREAST POCKETS PLACE THE BADGE IN THE SAME RELATIVE POSITIONS AS RIBBONS/MEDALS.
(B) WHEN WEARING A NAMETAG, CENTER THE DEVICE 1/4 INCH ABOVE THE NAMETAG.
(C) ON DINNER DRESS AND FORMAL UNIFORMS, MEN WEAR THE MINIATURE COMMAND SENIOR LEADER BADGE ON THE RIGHT LAPEL 3 INCHES BELOW THE NOTCH AND WOMEN WEAR IT ON THE RIGHT LAPEL DOWN 1/3 THE DISTANCE BETWEEN THE SHOULDER SEAM AND COAT HEM.
(D) WHEN WEARING FULL DRESS UNIFORMS, CENTER THE FULL SIZE COMMAND SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER BADGE 1/4 INCH ABOVE THE RIBBONS.
(E) ONLY ONE ADDITIONAL IDENTIFICATION BADGE MAY BE WORN WITH THE COMMAND SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER BADGE. MEN CENTER THE SECONDARY BADGE ON THE LEFT BREAST POCKET. WOMEN CENTER THE SECONDARY BADGE 1/4 INCH ABOVE THE LEFT POCKET, RIBBONS, OR PRIMARY INSIGNIA.
(2) POST TOUR SENIOR ENLISTED LEADERS HOLDING A VALID 9580/9579 NEC WHO ARE NOT ASSIGNED TO A 9580/9579 BILLET MAY WEAR
THE MINIATURE COMMAND SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER BADGE AS FOLLOWS:
(A) CENTER THE BADGE ON THE LEFT BREAST POCKET 1/4 INCH BELOW THE TOP POCKET/FLAP.
(B) IF QUALIFIED TO WEAR TWO BREAST INSIGNIAS AND OR TWO IDENTIFICATION BADGES ONLY THE SECONDARY BREAST INSIGNIA OR POST TOUR SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER BADGE MAY BE WORN ON THE LEFT POCKET FLAP.
(C) WHEN WEARING MINIATURE MEDALS, IF QUALIFIED TO WEAR TWO BREAST INSIGNIAS, EITHER WEAR THE POST TOUR SENIOR ENLISTED BADGE OR SECONDARY BREAST INSIGNIA CENTERED 1/4 INCH BELOW THE MEDALS.
(D) WHEN WEARING FULL DRESS UNIFORMS, MEN CENTER THE FULL SIZE SENIOR ENLISTED LEADER BADGE 1/4 INCH BELOW THE LOWER OF EITHER THE MEDALS OR SECONDARY BREAST INSIGNIA. WOMEN, CENTER THE BADGE 1/4 INCH ABOVE THE LEFT POCKET, MEDALS OR PRIMARY BREAST INSIGNIA.
(E) WHEN WEARING FULL DRESS WHITE, THE COMBINATION OF BREAST INSIGNIA, MEDALS, AND IDENTIFICATION BADGES SHALL NOT EXTEND BELOW THE LOWER SEAM OF THE POCKET.
C. CIVILIAN BAGS: EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY CIVILIAN BAGS (E.G., COMPUTER BAGS/BRIEFCASES, GYM BAGS, BACKPACKS, GARMENT BAGS, ETC., THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE WOMEN'S HANDBAGS/PURSES) MAY BE WORN WITH THE WORKING AND SERVICE UNIFORMS AS PRESCRIBED IN THE MANNER BELOW:
(1) COMPUTER BAG/BRIEF CASE AND BACKPACKS: MAY BE WORN ACROSS THE LEFT SHOULDER OF SERVICE AND WORKING UNIFORMS TO FACILITATE SALUTING. WHEN WEARING A BAG, THE STRAP MUST BE WORN ACROSS THE LEFT SHOULDER (FORE AND AFT) WITH THE BAG HANGING ON THE SAME SIDE OF THE BODY. THE CASE OR BAG WILL NOT BE WORN WITH THE STRAP AND BAG ON THE OPPOSITE SIDES OF THE BODY. BACK PACKS MAY ALSO BE WORN OVER BOTH SHOULDERS WHEN WEARING THE WORKING UNIFORM (E.G., COVERALLS AND UTILITIES).
(2) ALL BAGS WORN WITH THE UNIFORM MUST CONCEAL THE CONTENTS AND BE EITHER SOLID BLACK OR NAVY BLUE IN COLOR. THERE SHALL BE NO PERSONAL ORNAMENTATION ATTACHED ON OR TO THE BAG.
(3) WHILE IN DRESS UNIFORM, CIVILIAN BAGS WILL BE HAND CARRIED ONLY.
D. HANDBAGS: EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, HANDBAGS WILL BE OPTIONAL UNIFORM COMPONENTS FOR WOMEN UNIFORMS AND MAY NO LONGER BE PRESCRIBED. WOMEN MAY WEAR CIVILIAN HANDBAGS WHILE IN UNIFORM IN THE MANNER PRESCRIBED BELOW:
(1) THE HANDBAG MUST BE OF PLAIN BLACK, BROWN, OR WHITE NATURAL GRAIN LEATHER OR SYNTHETIC LEATHER, RECTANGULAR IN SHAPE AND DESIGNED WITH A FLAP. THE COLOR OF HANDBAG WILL MATCH THE COLOR OF SHOES WORN. DIMENSIONS MUST BE BETWEEN 7 1/2 TO 12 INCHES IN WIDTH, 5 1/2 TO 8 INCHES IN HEIGHT AND 3 1/2 TO 2 INCHES DEEP. EXOTIC MATERIALS SUCH AS EEL SKIN, ALLIGATOR, OR OSTRICH ARE NOT AUTHORIZED. THE HANDBAG MAY NOT HAVE ANY VISIBLE ORNAMENTATION, DECORATIVE STITCHING, EMBOSSED DESIGN, OR MANUFACTURER'S LOGO.
(2) THE CLOSURE HARDWARE WILL BE BRASS-PLATED OR GOLD-COLORED. IF THE FLAP HAS A CLOSURE, IT MUST BE A CLASP (NO BUCKLES, ZIPPERS OR STRING TIES ARE ALLOWED).
(3) THE STRAP WILL BE OF THE SAME MATERIAL AS THE PURSE AND MAY HAVE A GOLD-COLORED OR BLACK-COATED BUCKLE. HANDBAGS MAY BE PROCURED FROM COMMERCIAL SOURCES PROVIDED THEY MEET THE ABOVE CRITERIA.
(4) THE HANDBAG SHALL BE CARRIED/WORN OVER THE LEFT SHOULDER OR FOREARM, PLACING THE TOP OF THE HANDBAG AT WAIST LEVEL.
E. COMMUNICATION DEVICES: EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, COMMUNICATION DEVICES ISSUED FOR OFFICIAL BUSINESS MAY BE WORN ON THE UNIFORM IN THE MANNER PRESCRIBED BELOW:
(1) WORKING AND SERVICE UNIFORMS: ONE WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS DEVICE (E.G., CELL PHONE, PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANT (PDA), PAGERS, ETC.) MAY BE WORN ON THE BELT, EITHER SIDE OF THE BODY AND AFT OF THE ELBOW. DEVICES WILL NOT BE VISIBLE FROM THE FRONT AND WORN IN SUCH A MANNER AS TO IMPEDE THE NORMAL WEAR AND APPEARANCE OF THE UNIFORM (E.G., SAGGING, BUNCHING, ETC.).
(2) SERVICE DRESS AND ABOVE UNIFORMS: WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICES ARE NOT TO BE WORN IN SUCH A MANNER AS TO BE VISIBLE (I.E., FRONT, SIDE OR REAR, BULGING, OR PROTRUDING) WHEN WEARING DRESS UNIFORMS.
(3) USE OF THESE DEVICES WILL NOT INTERFERE WITH THE PROPER RENDERING OF MILITARY COURTESIES AND HONORS.
(4) WHENEVER THERE IS A CONCERN FOR OPERATIONAL SECURITY, THE AUTHORIZED WEARING OF THESE DEVICES WILL BE AT THE COMMANDING OFFICERS DISCRETION.
F. BREAST INSIGNIA: EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY PIN ON ANODIZED (SHINY) OR OXIDIZED (PEWTER IN APPEARANCE) SILVER BREAST INSIGNIA
MAY BE WORN IN THE MANNER PRESCRIBED BELOW:
(1) SILVER BREAST INSIGNIAS WILL HAVE EITHER AN ANODIZED OR OXIDIZED FINISH. PERSONNEL QUALIFIED TO WEAR MULTIPLE BREAST
INSIGNIAS ARE AUTHORIZED TO WEAR DEVICES OF THE SAME FINISH (ANODIZED OR OXIDIZE). WEARING BREAST INSIGNIAS OF DIFFERENT FINISHES (I.E., ANODIZED AND OXIDIZED) IS PROHIBITED.
(2) HAND POLISHING OF BREAST INSIGNIAS IS AUTHORIZED BUT NOT TO THE DEGREE OF ALTERING THE GENERAL APPEARANCE, FINISH, OR DETAIL OF THE DEVICE.
4. FILE THIS NAVADMIN WITH U.S. NAVY UNIFORM REGULATIONS, NAVPERS 15665 ON OCT 03 BUPERS DIRECTIVE CD ROM UNTIL REVISIONS ARE INCORPORATED INTO THE OCT 04 QUARTERLY BUPERS DIRECTIVE CD-ROM CHANGE.
5. POC: CNOCM R. B. CARROLL, N135, AT (703) 614-5076/DSN 224, EMAIL: ROBERT.B.CARROLL@NAVY.MIL
6. RELEASED BY VADM G. L. HOEWING, N1.//
This document may contain information covered under the privacy Act, 5 USC 552(a), and/or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (PL 104-191) and its various implementing regulations and must be protected in accordance with those provisions. Healthcare information is personal and sensitive and must be treated accordingly. If this correspondence contains healthcare information it is being provided to you after applying the appropriate security controls and authorization from the patient, or under circumstances that don't require patient authorization. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner. Redisclosure without additional patient consent or as permitted by law is prohibited. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality subjects you to application of appropriate sanction. If you have received this correspondence in error, please notify the sender and the command Privacy Officer at privacy@sig.med.navy.mil at once and destroy any copies you have made.
------------------------------------------------FYI,
r/CMC

--------------------------------------------------
Navy Substitute Exams

Subject: TONE #9
To All,RADM Talbot here. Due to Hurricane Ivan's wrath, I need to urgently updateyou on extended deadlines for ordering and administering substituteadvancement exams.
Ivan drastically impacted operations at Navy installations around the Gulfcoast region of Florida. Not only did commands in that area miss theopportunity to administer the E-4 advancement exam to their Sailors on thescheduled date, the Naval Education and Training Professional Developmentand Technology Center (NETPDTC) had to be evacuated and will likely not beopen for business until 27 September 2004.
As a result, the following guidance and procedures for ordering andadministering Cycle 184 substitute exams (SUBEXAMS) is in chop to bepromulgated by NAVADMIN.
a) The deadline for requesting SUBEXAMS has been extended to 15 OCT2004. Commands must administer the SUBEXAMS within seven days of receiptbut not later than 01 NOV 2004 unless a waiver has been requested perNAVADMIN 204/04.
b) Commands with personnel unable to take the web AG3 exam mustrequest SUBEXAMS via message to NETPDTC and then NETPDTC will provide newWeb SUBEXAM dates.
Keep up the good fight in our continuing GWOT and keep our Florida shipmatesin your thoughts and well wishes. Warmest Regards.....RADM Jerry Talbot.

Policy Change and other items of interest.

2004-09-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Please take time to read the latest:

1- PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION (PCS) ORDERS FOR SAILORS ASSIGNED TO FMF
UNITS IN OKINAWA AND IWAKUNI

2- RADM TALBOT- Important news to HYT for E-5s

3- Jewish High Holydays

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION (PCS) ORDERS FOR SAILORS ASSIGNED TO FMF
UNITS IN OKINAWA AND IWAKUNI

1. EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, THE CURRENT ASSIGNMENT POLICY FOR SAILORS
WHO ARE ASSIGNED UNDER PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION (PCS) ORDERS OR WHO WILL BE ASSIGNED UNDER PCS ORDERS TO FLEET MARINE FORCES IN OKINAWA, JAPAN AND IWAKUNI, JAPAN HAS BEEN MODIFIED.
2. PER OPNAVINST 1300.15, NAVY MEMBERS PERMANENTLY ASSIGNED WITH FLEET
MARINE FORCES WILL SERVE UNDER U.S. MARINE CORPS (USMC) POLICY. THE
USMC HAS BEGUN TRANSITIONING TO THE DOD STANDARD FOR PCS ASSIGNMENTS TO OKINAWA, JAPAN AND IWAKUNI, JAPAN. THIS STANDARD IS A 36-MONTH TOUR
FOR THOSE ACCOMPANIED BY FAMILY MEMBERS AND A 24-MONTH TOUR FOR ALL
OTHERS. THIS CHANGE IS A RESULT OF THE ALIGNMENT OF THE USMC WITH THE
OTHER SERVICES. AS A TOOL TO MANAGE OPTMEPO AND IMPROVE QUALITY OF
LIFE FOR MARINES AND THEIR FAMILIES, THE USMC HAS BEEN OPERATING UNDER
AN EXEMPTION FROM THE DOD POLICY SINCE 1987. DRAMATIC IMPROVEMENTS IN
LIVING CONDITIONS AND A MORE ROBUST SUPPORT INFRASTRUCTURE HAVE REMOVED THE NEED FOR THIS EXEMPTION.
3. THE FOLLOWING OUTLINES NAVY'S MODIFIED ASSIGNMENT AND TOUR LENGTH
POLICY FOR SAILORS SERVING WITH FLEET MARINE FORCE UNITS IN OKINAWA,
JAPAN AND IWAKUNI, JAPAN:
A. SINGLE FIRST TERM SAILORS WILL BE ASSIGNED A 24-MONTH
UNACCOMPANIED TOUR.
B. SINGLE FIRST TERM SAILORS CURRENTLY ASSIGNED TO UNITS OF THE III MEF AND MCBJ WILL MAINTAIN THEIR ORIGINAL PRD OF 12 MONTHS. IF THE
SAILOR REQUESTS TO EXTEND THEIR TOUR AN ADDITIONAL 12 MONTHS, THEY WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR OVERSEAS TOUR EXTENSION INCENTIVE PROGRAM (OTEIP)
BENEFITS.
C. SINGLE FIRST TERM SAILORS IN RECEIPT OF PCS ORDERS THAT HAVE
DETACHED FROM THEIR TRANSFERRING COMMAND AND ARE EN ROUTE TO UNITS OF THE III MEF OR MCBJ WILL MAINTAIN THEIR ORIGINAL PRD OF 12 MONTHS. IF
THE SAILOR REQUESTS TO EXTEND THEIR TOUR AN ADDITIONAL 12 MONTHS THEY
WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR OTEIP BENEFITS.
D. SINGLE FIRST TERM SAILORS IN RECEIPT OF ORDERS TO UNITS OF III
MEF AND MCBJ BUT HAVE NOT DETACHED FROM THEIR CURRENT COMMAND WILL
RECEIVE AN ORDER MODIFICATION ADJUSTING THEIR TOUR LENGTH FROM 12 TO 24 MONTHS.
E. FIRST TERM MARRIED SAILORS OR SAILORS WITH FAMILY MEMBERS WILL
CONTINUE TO BE ASSIGNED TO 12-MONTH UNACCOMPANIED TOURS. SAILORS IN
THIS CATEGORY CAN ELECT, WITH THEIR COMMAND'S APPROVAL, TO CONVERT TO
AN ACCOMPANIED TOUR PROVIDING THEY MEET ALL REQUIREMENTS.
F. CAMP FUJI WILL REMAIN AS A 12-MONTH UNACCOMPANIED ASSIGNMENT
TOUR FOR ALL PERSONNEL. G. THE FOLLOWING COMMANDS ARE AFFECTED BY THIS POLICY CHANGE:
UIC COMMAND
41975 DET A 1ST MARINE AIR WING FLEET MARINE FORCE PACIFIC, IWAKUNI, JAPAN
44577 3RD DENTAL BATTALION,
3RD FSSG FMFPAC, OKINAWA, JAPAN
44578 3RD DENTAL COMPANY, 3RD DEN BN 3RD FSSG FMFPAC, CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, JAPAN
47014 CHAPLAINS RELIGIOUS ENRICHMENT DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY, CAMP BUTLER, OKINAWA, JAPAN
48094 11TH DENTAL COMPANY 3D FSSG FMFPAC, OKINAWA, JAPAN
55211 3RD MARINE AMPHIBIOUS FORCE, FMF PACIFIC, CAMP BUTLER, OKINAWA, JAPAN
57079 1ST MARINE AIR CRAFT WING FLEET MARINE FORCE PACIFIC 62613 MARINE CORPS AIR STATION, IWAKUNI, JAPAN
67360 3RD MARINE DIVISION FMF PACIFIC 67400 MARINE CORPS BASE, CAMP SMEDLEY BUTLER, OKINAWA, JAPAN
67436 3RD FORCE SERVICE SUPPORT GROUP FMF PACIFIC
67867 31ST MARINE EXPEDITIONARY UNIT, OKINAWA, JAPAN 4. COMNAVPERSCOM POC IS HMCM(FMF) K. DENISE BROWN, LEAD HM/DT
DETAILER, (PERS-407CB), (901) 874-3806/DSN 882.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RADM Talbot- HYT for E-5s

To All,RADM Talbot here once again. Wanted to update you on a few items which
we are working here in DC and solicit your thoughts and feedback on them. Tone Summit - A couple of weeks ago, we hosted a gathering of ~40 key players in the Manpower and Personnel world to discuss how to maintain "tone" in an evolving Navy. What was originally conceived as simply about 5-6 folks from the DC area sitting around a table, rapidly grew into a full-blown summit with significant deckplates leadership. I was especially gratified to see the number of Fleet and Force Master Chiefs who were able to attend. We wanted to get our hands around the idea of maintaining the tone of the Navy as we do what is necessary to right-size the force and
recapitalize our fighting elements (ships, subs, acft, etc). Not looking for putting political "spin' on anything...rather, how to get our message across in a clearly understood way so the PO2 back on the fantail knows what the future holds. The Summit proved well-worth the price of admission, and the attendees were able to carry back our plan for the near future and how we plan on
getting there. Many great ideas were vetted, some of which I will discuss with you all in the near future. A couple are presented below.

Professional Military Education (PME) - We are moving out on CNO direction concerning PME for both our officer and enlisted corps. For too long, PME has only been thought of in terms of officers receiving Masters Degrees etc. But as the lines blur between officer and senior
enlisted positions, Navy is going to make full use of our senior enlisted human capital by investing in advanced education for them.

Some critical career milestone requirements being analyzed are:
- A minimum of an Associate's Degree necessary for advancement to SCPO
(E8).
- A minimum of a Bachelor's Degree necessary for certain selected senior enlisted billets. Of crucial note, leadership realizes we cannot simply mandate the above, without providing some path of attainment for these qualifications. The staff in the N131 Shop (Officer & Enlisted
Personnel Policy) is working closely with N00T/NETC in crafting programs to help fund advanced education for enlisted Sailors similar to our Graduate Education Voucher program. There will be more to follow as we flesh out the details, but I want to start getting this word out
soonest. Navy is evolving into a smaller, smarter and more lethal fighting force. Every Sailor (officer and enlisted) will be called upon to be capable of performing at a higher level than ever before. It is imperative that we provide every opportunity while afloat or ashore,
for all personnel to prepare themselves for those positions of increased responsibility. This is the way of the future and I urge everyone to "lead-turn" this issue.

Future Force-Shaping Tools - A couple of initiative we are working on to help mold the force were also addressed at our summit. First, we are reviewing the current High Year Tenure (HYT) rules for PO2's (E5). Between 500-600 Sailors retire every year as PO2's - although a few are reduced to that rank at NJP, the others either didn't or couldn't advance. We are cnvinced this no longer fits the construct of where we want to take to Enlisted Force of the future. I presented this issue to the CNO and he agreed that we should change E5 HYT to 14 years of active military service. The way ahead includes staffing this proposal with senior community leadership prior to official notification. We will ensure a suitable transition period
and "grandfather clause" is built in to protect those with a certain amount of years already invested. We will also continue to consider HYT waivers in cases where the member possesses a critical skill and is seeking assignment to a hardfill job. Bottom line is Navy seeks to
retain and continue our most competitive, best quality individuals - as the employer of choice, this change will fit in with our Human Capital Strategy for the future.Second, because of certain excesses at our most senior paygrades, we are considering whether or not Officer and Enlisted Selective Early Retirement (SER) selection boards are an appropriate tool to use. Navy
last used them in the mid-90's as part of the significant down-sizing efforts. In my travels, I actually sense there is much support for them, if used as a quality cut tool. For example, many senior enlisteds have recommended that each E7-E9 Selection Board should also be
immediately followed by an Enlisted SER Board to direct retirement of those who are unable to perform up to Navy standards. There may be some merit to that idea. If we do utilize O-SER or E-SER (or both), we intend to draw on the lessons-learned from the mid-90's, and not repeat
the mistakes. We certainly don't want to use a "broad-axe" approach - rather, we will look at those over-populated ratings, designators and communities, to use a surgical approach and offer alternatives. For example, in a rating where we have too many Master Chiefs, we may first
send out solicitation letters to the entire group, asking they consider applying for the CMC program. We would much rather have voluntary conversions, rather than having to try to select from a group of superb MCPO's.

FY04 End Strength - As we race to 30 September, the N132C Strength Shop is working to prepare our end-of-FY Strength numbers for CNO, SECNAV and Congress, I am actively asking your assistance. Because of our somewhat outdated Personnel accounting systems, there is a lag in when a person leaves the Navy and we see them as a loss. For example, of all the PO3's who separated on 31 August (and their commands have confirmed the members separated), the Enlisted Master File still shows hundreds of them as being on active duty. I ask all of Navy leadership to talk with their Personnel Officers, PN's, DK's, separations clerks, etc, to
assist us in getting the truest picture of our End Strength posture. Please take all necessary processing action as soon as you can to show each Sailor as a loss to the Navy. Do not allow the paperwork to languish in a "To Do" basket for the next couple of weeks. This is also
important for the Sailors who have been approved to separate under NAVADMIN 151/04 (FY04 Early Transition Program). Navy needs them be processed as a loss as close as possible to the actual date it occurred. Leadership at the highest levels will be making decisions
based on our reported end-of-year End Strength posture. Your assistance in getting the word out on this is crucial to providing the most accurate data.

As always, you continue to do magnificent things for our Nation and our
Navy. I ask your ongoing input on the above issues and anything else
you care to address. Please keep those cards and letters coming.
Warmest Regards.....RADM Jerry Talbot.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jewish High Holy Days Schedule
Disseminate to All Units
The Jewish High Holy Days begin on Wednesday, 15 September. All services will be held at the Foster Main Chapel and led by visiting Navy reservist Rabbi Daniella Kolodny, LT/USNR. Please join us!
Erev Rosh Hashana: Wednesday, 15 September, 1900 (sundown) Rosh Hashana Day: Thursday, 16 September, 0800 Shabbat Shuvah: Friday, 17 September, 2000 Morning Service: Saturday, 18 September, 1030 Kol Nidre: Friday, 24 September, 1900 (sundown) Morning Service: Saturday, 25 September, 1030 Torah Study: Saturday, 25 September, 1230 Yizkor/Neilah Service: Saturday, 25 September, 1700 (Foster Chapel Center - Bldg 455)
Yom Kippur Break-the-Fast will be held at 1800 in a location to be announced at Yizkor/Neilah.
POC: Dr. Drew C. Messer, DSN 634-2740/2747 or Chaplain Steven Moses, 645-7486.

V/R
Chief Price sends

Navy Information

2004-09-12T17:02:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Here are some things that you can use in your everyday Naval life.

1- EA Announcement by the Chief of Chaplains

2-Rules Restrict Political Activity for Department of Defense (DOD) People

3-Delegation of Approval Authority for Premium Class Travel

4-Combat Utility program

5- NavAmin- Substitute Exams

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Executive Assistant

Colleagues in Ministry –

Effective, 3 Sep 04 CAPT Tierian Cash has been relieved by CAPT Lyman Smith as
Executive Assistant to the Chief of Chaplains. Chaplain Cash has done an
exceptional job and his incredible work is deeply appreciated by all. He served with
me as my Deputy at the Naval Chaplains School, as Deputy Chaplain of the Marine
Corps and now as EA. I am deeply appreciative of his support and his demonstration
of a true servant’s heart.

Although the transition is a difficult one, I believe it is necessary and that it sends an
important signal to the Sea Services. As our Commander-in-Chief has reminded us
on numerous occasions, we are a nation at war. Many of our active duty chaplains
and Religious Program Specialists assigned to operational duty have served with their
Navy or Marine Corps units in OEF and OIF. There are also many reserve
component and operational-support/installation RMTs who have, who are, or who
will serve.

I have personally selected Chaplain Cash to go forward to serve in an Individual
Augmentation (IA) assignment in Afghanistan to relieve Chaplain Steve Evans.
Although this is a difficult assignment for me to make during this time of major
transformation in our Corps, it is a reminder that our first priority is to provide
ministry to those serving in harms way. Every command and every unit, even the
Chief of Chaplain's staff, will need to make sacrifices to support the additional
requirements of taking care of our forces engaged around the world. My personal
staff will not be sheltered from this. I do hope that all will have a similar sense of
calling if and when you are called to serve our forces who walk in harm's way. .
The days ahead are critical to our success in achieving Sea Chaplaincy 21 as an
integral component of Sea Power 21. I am confident our new team will be up to the
task. I ask for your continued support and prayers.

Blessings to one and all,
Louis V. Iasiello
Chief of Chaplains

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rules Restrict Political Activity for Department of Defense (DOD) People

Ref: Military.Com

With election activity steadily picking up, defense officials remind members of the military and Defense Department civilians that they’re subject to rules regulating their involvement in political activities. Two sets of rules to help protect the integrity of the political process: a DoD directive for active-duty service members and the Hatch Act for federal civilians. These rules keep the military out of partisan politics and ensure that the workplace remains politically neutral. That’s not to imply that military members and civilian employees can’t participate in politics. The DoD encourages both groups to register to vote and vote as they choose, and to urge others to vote. Both groups can sign nominating petitions for candidates and issues – but only if they don’t do so as representatives of the armed forces. Also, all federal employees can make contributions to political organizations or candidates. For additional information, visit http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Jul2004/n07122004_2004071205.html.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Delegation of Approval Authority for Premium Class Travel

Ref: Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) ltr of 21 Jul 04

Joint Federal Travel and Regulations (JFTR) requires that all official travel by premium class (First class and Business class) transportation be approved by designated senior officials, and set forth the circumstances under which such travel may be approved. Per SECNAV letter of 5 May 04, the SECNAV delegated authority to approve premium class travel to the Under Secretary of the Navy, the Chief of Naval Operations, and the Commandant of the Marine Corps and authorized further delegation consistent with JFTR. This memorandum establishes policy and approval levels for first class and business class travel accommodations and discusses new data collection, retention, and reporting requirements. Navy personnel will strictly adhere to the requirements and limitations of JFTR. Approval levels for Navy may not be delegated below the 3-star commander. It is Government policy that coach (economy) class travel accommodations will be used for all transportation modes for all official government travel. Premium class (first class or business class) will only be authorized for those situations set forth in the JFTR when approved by appropriate Premium class approval authority. All Premium class accommodations must be made and authorized in advance of the actual travel, unless extenuating circumstances or emergency situations make advance authorizations impossible. Failure to adhere to the advance notification or proper documentation procedures may result in the traveler being personally responsible for the excess cost of the travel. Blanket justifications and authorizations for the use of Premium class travel is prohibited. A major change in policy is the justification required for Premium class travel on flights over 14 hours. These flights do not automatically qualify for use of Premium class travel; Premium class travel should be the exception, not the rule, for flights 14 hours.

Approval Levels.

a. First Class and Business Class. The following commanders are delegated authority to approve both types, First class and Business class, of Premium class travel accommodation: Commander, Fleet Forces Command; Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet Forces; Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe; and Director, Navy Staff. This authority may be delegated to Vice or Deputy commanders, so long as that individual is in paygrade 09 or above. No further delegations are authorized.

b. Business Class Only. The following commanders are delegated authority to approve Business class, but not First class, travel accommodations: Director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion (NAVSEA-08), Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command; Commander, Naval Air Systems Command; Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command; Commander, Navy Personnel Command, Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet; Commander, Naval Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet; and Commander, Naval Reserve Forces. No further delegations are authorized.

c. Other delegations. With the exception of the delegation authorized in paragraphs a. and
b., above, no other delegation is authorized. Any Command not identified above, must
obtain premium travel approval from their appropriate reporting senior approval
authority as identified above.

d. Self-Approval. Approving officials may not approve their own first or business class
travel; approval must be obtained from the official’s reporting senior.

e. Commands shall forward their premium class travel requests in a timely fashion, along
with the required documentation, to the appropriate documentation, to the appropriate
approval authority within their respective chain of command.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MARADMIN 310/03

• Effective 1 Oct 04 no black boots (exception safety boots) or green jungle boots
authorized
– Uniform Support Center
• Japan – Toll free 00531-11-4026
• The style # is E40501 www.aafes.com , www.batesfootwear.com
------------------------------------------------------------
Substitute Exams

TO NAVADMIN RAAUZYUW RUEWMCS0130 2511445-UUUU--RUCRNAD.ZNR UUUUU ZUI RUENAAA0130 2511445R 071445Z SEP 04 ZYB MIN PSN 045875J29FM CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1//TO NAVADMINBTUNCLAS //N01430//NAVADMIN 204/04MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/-/SEP//SUBJ/FLEXIBILITY IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF NAVY-WIDE ADVANCEMENT-IN-/RATE SUBSTITUTE EXAMINATIONS//GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. OPERATIONAL COMMITMENTS AND THE GLOBAL WAR ONTERRORISM IMPOSE CHALLENGES ON THE ADMINISTRATION OF NAVY-WIDEADVANCEMENT-IN-RATE EXAMINATIONS FOR SAILORS SUPPORTING THESEEFFORTS. BECAUSE OF THIS, COMMANDERS AND COMMANDING OFFICERS AREPROVIDED INCREASED LATITUDE IN ADMINISTERING SUBSTITUTEEXAMINATIONS (SUBEXAMS) WHEN OPERATIONAL TEMPO PRECLUDES SAILORSFROM TAKING THE EXAM OR INTERFERES WITH ADMINISTERING THE EXAMS ONTHE REGULARLY SCHEDULED DATE. NAVAL EDUCATION AND TRAININGPROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER (NETPDTC) WILL WORKWITH COMMANDS ON ALL ADVANCEMENT ISSUES, INCLUDING THEADMINISTRATION OF SUBEXAMS. NETPDTC CONSIDERS ALL REQUESTS, EVENPAGE 02 RUEWMCS0130 UNCLASTHOSE SUBMITTED AFTER PUBLISHED DEADLINES, TO ENSURE ALL ELIGIBLESAILORS HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE AN ADVACEMENT EXAM.2. SUBEXAMS ARE AVAILABLE FOR ALL SAILORS. VALID REASONS FORREQUESTING SUBEXAMS INCLUDE EMERGENCY LEAVE (AS DEFINED IN THEMILPERSMAN), SICK IN QUARTERS (SIQ) OR HOSPITALIZATION, ANDOPERATIONAL COMMITMENTS - ESPECIALLY DEPLOYED UNITS IN COMBAT AREAS.NETPDTC WILL SHIP SUBEXAMS AFTER THE NORMAL SHIPPING CUT OFF DATEIF COMMANDS ATTEMPTED TO ORDER SUBEXAMS ON TIME AND THE ORIGINALSUBEXAM ORDERING MESSAGE DATE-TIME-GROUP IS ON OR BEFORE THE SUBEXAMORDERING DEADLINE FOR THAT PARTICULAR ADVANCEMENT CYCLE. FOR CYCLE184, NAVADMIN 134/04, SUBEXAM REQUESTS MUST REACH NETPDTC NLT 1 OCT04. THE REQUIREMENT FOR ADMINISTERING SUBEXAMS WITHIN 7 DAYS OFRECEIPT STILL APPLIES UNLESS COMMANDS REQUEST A WAIVER.3. SUBEXAMS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO BE ADMINISTERED ON A SPECIFIC DATEOR TO ALL SAILORS ON THE SAME DATE WITHIN THE SAME COMMAND. FOREXAMPLE, COMMANDS WITH MULTIPLE DETACHMENTS ARE NOT REQUIRED TOADMINISTER SUBEXAMS ON THE SAME DATE. ONE RECENT EXAMPLE OFNETPDTC'S FLEXIBILITY IS ILLUSTRATED BY A COMMAND IN IRAQ THATORDERED A HOSPITAL CORPSMAN EXAM IN MARCH AND THE EXAM WAS FORWARDEDFROM DETACHMENT TO DETACHMENT FOR ABOUT SIX WEEKS. THE SAILOR WASPAGE 03 RUEWMCS0130 UNCLASFINALLY ABLE TO TAKE A SUBEXAM IN JUL (4 MONTHS AFTER SCHEDULED EXAMDAY). IN THESE CASES, SAILORS ARE NOT PENALIZED FOR THE DELAY INTAKING THE EXAM. IF A SAILOR TAKES A DELAYED EXAM, WITHCOORDINATION AND APPROVAL BY NETPDTC, THEIR ANSWER SHEET IS SCANNEDAND SCORED FOR ADVANCEMENT, AND IF ELIGIBLE, WILL RECEIVE BACKDATEDPAY AND TIME-IN-RATE.4. SUBMIT REQUESTS FOR SUBEXAMS VIA MSG PER TABLE 4-3 OF THEADVANCEMENT MANUAL (BUPERSNST 1430.16E) TO NETPDTC (N321), INFOCOMNAVPERSCOM (PERS-4811/4812). INCLUDE MBR NAME, RATE, SSN, ANDJUSTIFICATION FOR MISSING REGULAR EXAM.5. POC: LCDR JULIET COOK, N132C4, (703) 695-0888/DSN 225, EMAIL:JULIET.COOK@NAVY.MIL OR JIM HAWTHORNE, N321, E-MAIL:JAMES.A.HAWTHORNE@NAVY.MIL.6. RELEASED BY VADM G. L. HOEWING, N1.//BT#0130NNNN
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Advancement Exams

2004-09-09T19:23:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen,

There is one more week for the Advancement exams. I have a request for you, if you don't mind. I would like for you to send me questions, you remember from the test that you took. I will post them on my Quia website. Maybe we can have enough questions to make a complete exam, you'll never know.

Another thing that I would like to share with you is that if, I said I was going to send you an advancement disk and I didn't, my apologies. My computer hard drive crashed, and my son had a very expensive cell phone bill and I am short of funds. If you know what I mean and I think you do. Give me till October 5 to get back up and running. I will get back with you guys.

V/R
Chief Price sends