Happy Birthday U.S. Army Reserve
On April 23rd, Congressman Kim helped celebrate the U.S. Army Reserve’s 115th birthday. We thank all our Army Reserve soldiers and personnel at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and across the world for their bravery and service!
Additional Support Opportunities
The Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program allows the VA to provide resources toward community-based suicide prevention efforts to meet the needs of veterans and their families through outreach, suicide prevention services, and connection to VA and community resources. Applications are due May 19th. Learn more about eligibility and the program here.
The New Jersey Defense Manufacturing Community Consortium, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense, offers training to veterans, soon-to-be-veterans, and their family members to build skills helpful in the workforce and manufacturing careers. The program by the NJMEP works alongside the DOD partners to build a strong community of New Jersey manufacturers that can support the DOD supply chain. Learn more about the available coursework and classes online!
Do you have a copy of your DD-214?
If you do not have a copy of your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), you should request a copy from the National Archives and Records Administration since it can take up to 6-12 months to receive. DD-214s are necessary to apply for many of the benefits you are eligible for as a veteran. If you don’t have your DD-214, medical treatment can be delayed for a long time. If you have questions about this, you can contact our office here.
DMAVA Newsletter
The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ newsletter provides information to Servicemembers, Veterans, Employees, Families, Caregivers, Community Partners and those inspired to support our collective mission. You can sign-up for DMAVA’s mailing lists on their website.
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) Update
On April 3rd, JBMDL hosted the Women’s Empowerment Forum, an inclusive and collaborative space for military and civilian women and supporters to connect and engage with each other.
Throughout April, JBMDL, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, and local firefighters unified to contain a major wildfire in Manchester Township.
On April 10th, the 305th Maintenance Squadron conducted its final inspection of the KC-10 Extender, marking the end of an era for the 305th Air Mobility Wing’s legacy refueling tanker.
The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response team at JBMDL observed Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month by raising awareness to prevent sexual assault and harassment and to provide resources and victim support to educate the public.
Upcoming Local Events
The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is hosting various events throughout May, including:
- May 6th at 1:30 PM - The 108th Wing NJ Air National Guard is hosting a retirement briefing at McGuire Air Force Base. A VSO will be present to help or assist any veteran.
- May 17th at 10 AM - New Jersey Department of Corrections at the New Jersey State Prison will host a veteran employee resource fair. A VSO will be present to help or assist any veteran.
- May 20th at 12 PM - VET2VET Monthly Support Group Meeting at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Holmdel. A VSO will be present to help or assist any veteran.
- May 25th at 9 AM - DMAVA will host a veterans outreach campaign at the Columbus Farmers Market. A VSO will be present to help or assist any veteran.
Do You Know Someone Else Who Would Find These Updates Helpful?
If so, please encourage them to sign up here. Please don’t hesitate to be in touch if we can be of assistance to you.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you every day!
The Office of Congressman Andy Kim