Latest Military Compensation News

  • Important FSGLI Coverage Information for Member-to-Member Couples with full time Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Coverage
    Section 642 of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Public Law 112-239, repealed the automatic enrollment in Family Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (FSGLI) for member-to-member couples who have full-time Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage and who married on or after January 2, 2013.

    For the full article please click here (PDF).
  • New Roth TSP Option
    Beginning October 1, 2012, active duty military members in the Army, Navy, and Air Force may elect to contribute to a Roth TSP. The Roth TSP offers a different option in the tax treatment of contributions. Roth contributions are taken out of a member's paycheck after the income is taxed. The earnings and withdrawals will not be taxed so long as you are at least age 59 1/2 (or disabled) and have contributed to Roth for at least 5 years. A traditional TSP contribution is pre-income tax, reducing a member's gross income which in turns lowers a member's taxes today, but upon withdrawal, the contributions and earnings will be taxed at the future rate. Each TSP offers a different tax benefit. In general, if one is paying lower taxes now, and expects higher taxes in the future, the Roth may be more advantageous. However, if one is paying higher taxes now and expects lower taxes in the future, a traditional may be the right choice. Members are urged to consult their financial and tax advisors to assist in making the right decision for their personal tax situation. For 2012, total amount one can contribute to Roth and traditional cannot exceed $17,000 plus the $5,500 catch up contribution for member age 50 or older. For more information please see:
    http://www.dfas.mil/     https://www.tsp.gov/whatsnew/roth/compareRoth.shtml

In the Spotlight

  • Primer: Post Deployment/Mobilization Respite Absence (PDMRA) Program
    PDMRA is a program intended to recognize Service members who are deployed or mobilized beyond certain Department rotation frequency thresholds by awarding them administrative absence days. The thresholds were established by the Secretary of Defense in January, 2007. When a member mobilizes or deploys beyond these targets, administrative absences are granted to offer additional respite, to be taken at a time convenient to the member and family. PDMRA Primer Download


DoD Photos

Department of Defense Imagery

Members of the U.S. Marine Corps sitting volleyball team gather before a game against the U.S. Army team during the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 15, 2013. The Marines beat the Army team to win the gold medal. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Lance Cpl. Sharon Kyle, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8759337018/<p>Members of the U.S. Marine Corps sitting volleyball team gather before a game against the U.S. Army team during the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 15, 2013. The Marines beat the Army team to win the gold medal. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Lance Cpl. Sharon Kyle, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)</p> <p>Members of the U.S. Marine Corps sitting volleyball team gather before a game against the U.S. Army team during the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 15, 2013. The Marines beat the Army team to win the gold medal. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Lance Cpl. Sharon Kyle, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Sailors assigned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, compete in a firetruck pull during a fitness and health fair outside a fitness center at the base in Oahu, Hawaii, May 15, 2013. U.S. Service members, Department of Defense civilians and contractors participated in the event, which included the 200-foot firetruck pull by six-person teams. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Diana Quinlan, U.S. Navy/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8759337178/<p>U.S. Sailors assigned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, compete in a firetruck pull during a fitness and health fair outside a fitness center at the base in Oahu, Hawaii, May 15, 2013. U.S. Service members, Department of Defense civilians and contractors participated in the event, which included the 200-foot firetruck pull by six-person teams. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Diana Quinlan, U.S. Navy/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Sailors assigned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, compete in a firetruck pull during a fitness and health fair outside a fitness center at the base in Oahu, Hawaii, May 15, 2013. U.S. Service members, Department of Defense civilians and contractors participated in the event, which included the 200-foot firetruck pull by six-person teams. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Diana Quinlan, U.S. Navy/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Jennefer English, with the Naval Construction Training Center, drops a smoke grenade to simulate a chemical, biological or radiological attack in Port Hueneme, Calif., May 16, 2013. Sailors with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 conducted a final graded field training exercise, employing a variety of realistic scenarios encountered during Seabee deployments. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chris Fahey, U.S. Navy/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8758210765/<p> U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Jennefer English, with the Naval Construction Training Center, drops a smoke grenade to simulate a chemical, biological or radiological attack in Port Hueneme, Calif., May 16, 2013. Sailors with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 conducted a final graded field training exercise, employing a variety of realistic scenarios encountered during Seabee deployments. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chris Fahey, U.S. Navy/Released)</p> <p> U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Jennefer English, with the Naval Construction Training Center, drops a smoke grenade to simulate a chemical, biological or radiological attack in Port Hueneme, Calif., May 16, 2013. Sailors with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 conducted a final graded field training exercise, employing a variety of realistic scenarios encountered during Seabee deployments. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chris Fahey, U.S. Navy/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, right, walks with Turkish Minister of National Defense Ismet Yilmaz, center, and Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, left, after a meeting at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., May 17, 2013. (DoD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8758210909/<p>Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, right, walks with Turkish Minister of National Defense Ismet Yilmaz, center, and Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, left, after a meeting at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., May 17, 2013. (DoD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo/Released)</p> <p>Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, right, walks with Turkish Minister of National Defense Ismet Yilmaz, center, and Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, left, after a meeting at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., May 17, 2013. (DoD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Air force Senior Airman Christopher Nichols, an avionics technician with the 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, conducts a preflight inspection on an Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft assigned to the 81st Fighter Squadron before its final takeoff from Europe May 17, 2013, at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. The squadron, which had been assigned to Spangdahlem since 1973, was scheduled to inactivate in June, with several of its A-10s slated to be reassigned to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gustavo Castillo/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8758210267/<p>U.S. Air force Senior Airman Christopher Nichols, an avionics technician with the 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, conducts a preflight inspection on an Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft assigned to the 81st Fighter Squadron before its final takeoff from Europe May 17, 2013, at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. The squadron, which had been assigned to Spangdahlem since 1973, was scheduled to inactivate in June, with several of its A-10s slated to be reassigned to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gustavo Castillo/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Air force Senior Airman Christopher Nichols, an avionics technician with the 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, conducts a preflight inspection on an Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft assigned to the 81st Fighter Squadron before its final takeoff from Europe May 17, 2013, at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. The squadron, which had been assigned to Spangdahlem since 1973, was scheduled to inactivate in June, with several of its A-10s slated to be reassigned to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Gustavo Castillo/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

The JROTC cadets from the Enduring Freedom Honor Team play a medley of songs in honor of Armed Forces Day at the Ampitheater in Arlington Cemetery. Our 33rd President Harry Truman led an effort to establish a day for citizens to come together and thank our men and women for their patriotic service in support of our great nation.

(DOD Photo By: U.S. Army Staff Sgt Sun L. Vega)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8758211021/<p>The JROTC cadets from the Enduring Freedom Honor Team play a medley of songs in honor of Armed Forces Day at the Ampitheater in Arlington Cemetery. Our 33rd President Harry Truman led an effort to establish a day for citizens to come together and thank our men and women for their patriotic service in support of our great nation.<br /> <br /> (DOD Photo By: U.S. Army Staff Sgt Sun L. Vega)</p> <p>The JROTC cadets from the Enduring Freedom Honor Team play a medley of songs in honor of Armed Forces Day at the Ampitheater in Arlington Cemetery. Our 33rd President Harry Truman led an effort to establish a day for citizens to come together and thank our men and women for their patriotic service in support of our great nation.<br /> <br /> (DOD Photo By: U.S. Army Staff Sgt Sun L. Vega)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Navy Lt. j.g. Matthew Stroup, right, an education liaison and public affairs officer with the Farah Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT), carries boxes of donated school supplies May 13, 2013, during a key leader engagement with Farah's provincial director of education at Aboonaser-Farahi High School in Farah city, Afghanistan. Members of the Farah PRT met with the director to discuss budgeting and infrastructure improvements to schools and to deliver donated school supplies. Farah PRT's mission was to train, advise and assist Afghan government leaders at the municipal, district and provincial levels in Farah province. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Hospital Corpsman Josh Ives/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8759337750/<p>U.S. Navy Lt. j.g. Matthew Stroup, right, an education liaison and public affairs officer with the Farah Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT), carries boxes of donated school supplies May 13, 2013, during a key leader engagement with Farah's provincial director of education at Aboonaser-Farahi High School in Farah city, Afghanistan. Members of the Farah PRT met with the director to discuss budgeting and infrastructure improvements to schools and to deliver donated school supplies. Farah PRT's mission was to train, advise and assist Afghan government leaders at the municipal, district and provincial levels in Farah province. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Hospital Corpsman Josh Ives/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Navy Lt. j.g. Matthew Stroup, right, an education liaison and public affairs officer with the Farah Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT), carries boxes of donated school supplies May 13, 2013, during a key leader engagement with Farah's provincial director of education at Aboonaser-Farahi High School in Farah city, Afghanistan. Members of the Farah PRT met with the director to discuss budgeting and infrastructure improvements to schools and to deliver donated school supplies. Farah PRT's mission was to train, advise and assist Afghan government leaders at the municipal, district and provincial levels in Farah province. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Hospital Corpsman Josh Ives/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

Northrop Grumman personnel conduct preoperational tests on a U.S. Navy X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System demonstrator aircraft on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) May 14, 2013, in the Atlantic Ocean. The George H.W. Bush was the first aircraft carrier to successfully catapult-launch an unmanned aircraft from its flight deck. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Walter/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8759335274/<p>Northrop Grumman personnel conduct preoperational tests on a U.S. Navy X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System demonstrator aircraft on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) May 14, 2013, in the Atlantic Ocean. The George H.W. Bush was the first aircraft carrier to successfully catapult-launch an unmanned aircraft from its flight deck. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Walter/Released)</p> <p>Northrop Grumman personnel conduct preoperational tests on a U.S. Navy X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System demonstrator aircraft on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) May 14, 2013, in the Atlantic Ocean. The George H.W. Bush was the first aircraft carrier to successfully catapult-launch an unmanned aircraft from its flight deck. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy Walter/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

A U.S. Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter departs the afloat forward staging base USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15) before an airborne mine countermeasures sweeping demonstration in support of International Mine Countermeasures Exercise (IMCMEX) 2013 in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility May 14, 2013. IMCMEX is an international symposium and exercise designed to enhance cooperation, mutual maritime capabilities and long-term regional stability between the U.S. and its international partners. (DoD photo by Lt. Colby Drake, U.S. Navy/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8746883917/<p>A U.S. Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter departs the afloat forward staging base USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15) before an airborne mine countermeasures sweeping demonstration in support of International Mine Countermeasures Exercise (IMCMEX) 2013 in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility May 14, 2013. IMCMEX is an international symposium and exercise designed to enhance cooperation, mutual maritime capabilities and long-term regional stability between the U.S. and its international partners. (DoD photo by Lt. Colby Drake, U.S. Navy/Released)</p> <p>A U.S. Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter departs the afloat forward staging base USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15) before an airborne mine countermeasures sweeping demonstration in support of International Mine Countermeasures Exercise (IMCMEX) 2013 in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility May 14, 2013. IMCMEX is an international symposium and exercise designed to enhance cooperation, mutual maritime capabilities and long-term regional stability between the U.S. and its international partners. (DoD photo by Lt. Colby Drake, U.S. Navy/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

Athletes sprint from the starting line during the men’s open 1,500-meter race as part of the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 14, 2013. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Boitz, U.S. Air Force/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8746884965/<p>Athletes sprint from the starting line during the men’s open 1,500-meter race as part of the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 14, 2013. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Boitz, U.S. Air Force/Released)</p> <p>Athletes sprint from the starting line during the men’s open 1,500-meter race as part of the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 14, 2013. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Christopher Boitz, U.S. Air Force/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jason O'neil, top, and Capt. Jeffrey Monroe, bottom, with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing fly F/A-18C Hornet aircraft while participating in a deployment for training at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., May 13, 2013. The training prepared the squadron for future combat and contingency operations. (DoD photo by Sgt. Gregory Moore, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8746885445/<p>U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jason O'neil, top, and Capt. Jeffrey Monroe, bottom, with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing fly F/A-18C Hornet aircraft while participating in a deployment for training at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., May 13, 2013. The training prepared the squadron for future combat and contingency operations. (DoD photo by Sgt. Gregory Moore, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jason O'neil, top, and Capt. Jeffrey Monroe, bottom, with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing fly F/A-18C Hornet aircraft while participating in a deployment for training at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., May 13, 2013. The training prepared the squadron for future combat and contingency operations. (DoD photo by Sgt. Gregory Moore, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Mazel Sievers, a structural worker with the 823rd Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers, pulls a chalk line to mark the ends of rafters during the construction of a building at Ladyville Technical High School May 13, 2013, in Ladyville, Belize, as part of exercise New Horizons 2013. New Horizons is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored annual series of joint humanitarian assistance exercises deploying U.S. military engineers, veterinarians, medics and other professions to Central and South American nations for training, construction projects and to provide humanitarian and medical services. (DoD photo by Capt. Holly Hess, U.S. Air Force/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8746885385/<p>U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Mazel Sievers, a structural worker with the 823rd Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers, pulls a chalk line to mark the ends of rafters during the construction of a building at Ladyville Technical High School May 13, 2013, in Ladyville, Belize, as part of exercise New Horizons 2013. New Horizons is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored annual series of joint humanitarian assistance exercises deploying U.S. military engineers, veterinarians, medics and other professions to Central and South American nations for training, construction projects and to provide humanitarian and medical services. (DoD photo by Capt. Holly Hess, U.S. Air Force/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Mazel Sievers, a structural worker with the 823rd Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers, pulls a chalk line to mark the ends of rafters during the construction of a building at Ladyville Technical High School May 13, 2013, in Ladyville, Belize, as part of exercise New Horizons 2013. New Horizons is a U.S. Southern Command-sponsored annual series of joint humanitarian assistance exercises deploying U.S. military engineers, veterinarians, medics and other professions to Central and South American nations for training, construction projects and to provide humanitarian and medical services. (DoD photo by Capt. Holly Hess, U.S. Air Force/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Army Spc. Elizabeth Wasil, a combat medic assigned to Bravo Company, Fort Sam Houston Warrior Transition Battalion, puts her head down after winning the women?s 1,500-meter handcycling event during the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 13, 2013. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Powell, U.S. Army/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8746885371/<p>U.S. Army Spc. Elizabeth Wasil, a combat medic assigned to Bravo Company, Fort Sam Houston Warrior Transition Battalion, puts her head down after winning the women?s 1,500-meter handcycling event during the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 13, 2013. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Powell, U.S. Army/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Army Spc. Elizabeth Wasil, a combat medic assigned to Bravo Company, Fort Sam Houston Warrior Transition Battalion, puts her head down after winning the women?s 1,500-meter handcycling event during the 2013 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 13, 2013. The Warrior Games is an annual event allowing wounded, ill and injured Service members and veterans to compete in Paralympic sports including archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, track and field, swimming and wheelchair basketball. (DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Powell, U.S. Army/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Soldiers with the 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade enter a building through a window while a Slovenian soldier, bottom, provides security during the Kosovo Force (KFOR) 17 Mission Rehearsal Exercise (MRE) at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, May 12, 2013. The KFOR 17 MRE was designed to prepare the U.S. Army’s 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade for operations in support of NATO in Kosovo. (DoD photo by Sgt. Gemma Iglesias, U.S. Army/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8748005016/<p>U.S. Soldiers with the 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade enter a building through a window while a Slovenian soldier, bottom, provides security during the Kosovo Force (KFOR) 17 Mission Rehearsal Exercise (MRE) at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, May 12, 2013. The KFOR 17 MRE was designed to prepare the U.S. Army’s 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade for operations in support of NATO in Kosovo. (DoD photo by Sgt. Gemma Iglesias, U.S. Army/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Soldiers with the 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade enter a building through a window while a Slovenian soldier, bottom, provides security during the Kosovo Force (KFOR) 17 Mission Rehearsal Exercise (MRE) at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany, May 12, 2013. The KFOR 17 MRE was designed to prepare the U.S. Army’s 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade for operations in support of NATO in Kosovo. (DoD photo by Sgt. Gemma Iglesias, U.S. Army/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Navy Diver 1st Class Shawn Gerasimchik, right, helps Navy Diver 1st Class Todd Verhagen, both with Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2, into a 7-meter rigid-hull inflatable boat in Parris Island, S.C., May 16, 2013, after a gross survey diving operation as part of Ardent Sentry 2013. The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office helped MDSU-2 search for people and vehicles following a simulated bridge collapse. Ardent Sentry is a NORAD and U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM)-directed exercise focusing on defense support of civil authorities in response to simulated weather, security and disaster contingencies. While Ardent Sentry is primarily a command post exercise, several field training events were conducted at various locations within the USNORTHCOM area of responsibility. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Dustin Q. Diaz, U.S. Navy/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8746885609/<p>U.S. Navy Diver 1st Class Shawn Gerasimchik, right, helps Navy Diver 1st Class Todd Verhagen, both with Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2, into a 7-meter rigid-hull inflatable boat in Parris Island, S.C., May 16, 2013, after a gross survey diving operation as part of Ardent Sentry 2013. The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office helped MDSU-2 search for people and vehicles following a simulated bridge collapse. Ardent Sentry is a NORAD and U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM)-directed exercise focusing on defense support of civil authorities in response to simulated weather, security and disaster contingencies. While Ardent Sentry is primarily a command post exercise, several field training events were conducted at various locations within the USNORTHCOM area of responsibility. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Dustin Q. Diaz, U.S. Navy/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Navy Diver 1st Class Shawn Gerasimchik, right, helps Navy Diver 1st Class Todd Verhagen, both with Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2, into a 7-meter rigid-hull inflatable boat in Parris Island, S.C., May 16, 2013, after a gross survey diving operation as part of Ardent Sentry 2013. The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office helped MDSU-2 search for people and vehicles following a simulated bridge collapse. Ardent Sentry is a NORAD and U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM)-directed exercise focusing on defense support of civil authorities in response to simulated weather, security and disaster contingencies. While Ardent Sentry is primarily a command post exercise, several field training events were conducted at various locations within the USNORTHCOM area of responsibility. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Dustin Q. Diaz, U.S. Navy/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen with the Class of 2016 conduct a log carrying exercise as part of the U.S. Naval Academy Sea Trials in Annapolis, Md., May 14, 2013. Based on the Navy's Battle Stations and the Marine Corps' Crucible, Sea Trials were the capstone training evolution for the Naval Academy freshmen class. The midshipmen navigated physical and mental challenges, ranging from obstacle courses, long-distance group runs, damage control scenarios, and water training. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom, U.S. Navy/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8746884139/<p>U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen with the Class of 2016 conduct a log carrying exercise as part of the U.S. Naval Academy Sea Trials in Annapolis, Md., May 14, 2013. Based on the Navy's Battle Stations and the Marine Corps' Crucible, Sea Trials were the capstone training evolution for the Naval Academy freshmen class. The midshipmen navigated physical and mental challenges, ranging from obstacle courses, long-distance group runs, damage control scenarios, and water training. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom, U.S. Navy/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen with the Class of 2016 conduct a log carrying exercise as part of the U.S. Naval Academy Sea Trials in Annapolis, Md., May 14, 2013. Based on the Navy's Battle Stations and the Marine Corps' Crucible, Sea Trials were the capstone training evolution for the Naval Academy freshmen class. The midshipmen navigated physical and mental challenges, ranging from obstacle courses, long-distance group runs, damage control scenarios, and water training. (DoD photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom, U.S. Navy/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Raymond Valas, right, the commander of Joint Task Force Jaguar, shows Central School students and their teacher a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during Beyond the Horizon 2013 at the construction site of a new school in El Tamarindo, El Salvador, May 14,2013.
Beyond the Horizon (BTH) is a Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff-directed, U.S. Southern Command-sponsored joint and combined field training humanitarian exercise in which troops specializing in engineering, construction and health care provide much-needed services to communities in need while receiving valuable deployment training and building important relationships with partner nations. (DoD photo by 1st Sgt. Mike Daigle, U.S. Army/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8743779239/<p>U.S. Army Lt. Col. Raymond Valas, right, the commander of Joint Task Force Jaguar, shows Central School students and their teacher a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during Beyond the Horizon 2013 at the construction site of a new school in El Tamarindo, El Salvador, May 14,2013. <br /> Beyond the Horizon (BTH) is a Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff-directed, U.S. Southern Command-sponsored joint and combined field training humanitarian exercise in which troops specializing in engineering, construction and health care provide much-needed services to communities in need while receiving valuable deployment training and building important relationships with partner nations. (DoD photo by 1st Sgt. Mike Daigle, U.S. Army/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Army Lt. Col. Raymond Valas, right, the commander of Joint Task Force Jaguar, shows Central School students and their teacher a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during Beyond the Horizon 2013 at the construction site of a new school in El Tamarindo, El Salvador, May 14,2013. <br /> Beyond the Horizon (BTH) is a Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff-directed, U.S. Southern Command-sponsored joint and combined field training humanitarian exercise in which troops specializing in engineering, construction and health care provide much-needed services to communities in need while receiving valuable deployment training and building important relationships with partner nations. (DoD photo by 1st Sgt. Mike Daigle, U.S. Army/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division charge out of a gulch toward a breach in a simulated enemy's perimeter during a company-level combined arms live-fire exercise at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, May 13, 2013. The exercise develops leaders and service members with critical thinking and tactical skills, while remaining prepared to support the Army's mission in the Pacific. (DoD photo by Sgt. Brian C. Erickson, U.S. Army/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8743780361/<p>U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division charge out of a gulch toward a breach in a simulated enemy's perimeter during a company-level combined arms live-fire exercise at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, May 13, 2013. The exercise develops leaders and service members with critical thinking and tactical skills, while remaining prepared to support the Army's mission in the Pacific. (DoD photo by Sgt. Brian C. Erickson, U.S. Army/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division charge out of a gulch toward a breach in a simulated enemy's perimeter during a company-level combined arms live-fire exercise at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, May 13, 2013. The exercise develops leaders and service members with critical thinking and tactical skills, while remaining prepared to support the Army's mission in the Pacific. (DoD photo by Sgt. Brian C. Erickson, U.S. Army/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Airmen assigned to the 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron provide medical care to simulated patients during a combat search and rescue exercise on board an MC-130P Combat Shadow aircraft over the Grand Bara Desert, Djibouti, May 12, 2013. The 449th Air Expeditionary Group regularly conducted training in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA). CJTF-HOA conducts operations in the combined-joint operations area to enhance partner nation capacity, promote regional security and stability, dissuade conflict and protect US interest.(DoD photo by Airman 1st Class Nicholas Byers, U.S. Air Force/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8743779663/<p>U.S. Airmen assigned to the 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron provide medical care to simulated patients during a combat search and rescue exercise on board an MC-130P Combat Shadow aircraft over the Grand Bara Desert, Djibouti, May 12, 2013. The 449th Air Expeditionary Group regularly conducted training in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA). CJTF-HOA conducts operations in the combined-joint operations area to enhance partner nation capacity, promote regional security and stability, dissuade conflict and protect US interest.(DoD photo by Airman 1st Class Nicholas Byers, U.S. Air Force/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Airmen assigned to the 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron provide medical care to simulated patients during a combat search and rescue exercise on board an MC-130P Combat Shadow aircraft over the Grand Bara Desert, Djibouti, May 12, 2013. The 449th Air Expeditionary Group regularly conducted training in support of Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA). CJTF-HOA conducts operations in the combined-joint operations area to enhance partner nation capacity, promote regional security and stability, dissuade conflict and protect US interest.(DoD photo by Airman 1st Class Nicholas Byers, U.S. Air Force/Released)</p>

Department of Defense Imagery

U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Tony S. Kimmanee, right, a drill instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy gives instruction to a delayed entry program recruit from Marine Corps Recruiting Station Baltimore during their statewide pool function at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., May 11, 2013. (DoD photo by Cpl Bryan Nygaard, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39955793@N07/8743782091/<p>U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Tony S. Kimmanee, right, a drill instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy gives instruction to a delayed entry program recruit from Marine Corps Recruiting Station Baltimore during their statewide pool function at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., May 11, 2013. (DoD photo by Cpl Bryan Nygaard, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)</p> <p>U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Tony S. Kimmanee, right, a drill instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy gives instruction to a delayed entry program recruit from Marine Corps Recruiting Station Baltimore during their statewide pool function at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., May 11, 2013. (DoD photo by Cpl Bryan Nygaard, U.S. Marine Corps/Released)</p>