2015 fall mwr life for retirees
DESCRIPTION
ÂTRANSCRIPT
apsu.edu/APFC
Austin Peay Center at FORT CAMPBELL
Classes on post, online and at the main campus in downtown Clarksville.
FREE admission to APSU athletics events* with military I.D. *Regular-season, home events. See schedule at www.LetsGoPeay.com.
Austin Peay Center atAustin Peay State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color
, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disabilityor any other legally protected class with respect to all employment, programs and activities sponsored by APSU. The Austin Peay State University policy on nondiscrimination can be found at http://www
apsu.
Austin Peay Center at FORT CAMPBELL, religion, creed, national origin, sex, Austin Peay State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color
, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other legally protected class with respect to all employment, programs and activities sponsored by APSU.
.apsu.edu/files/policy/5002.pdf.The Austin Peay State University policy on nondiscrimination can be found at http://www
CFFCPA//Aeduapsu.
FORT CAMPBELL FREE admission to APSU athleticsevents* with military I.D.*Regular-season, home events. See schedule at www.LetsGoPeay.com.
FREE admission to APSU athleticsevents* with military I.D.*Regular-season, home events. See schedule at www.LetsGoPeay.com.
Yes, it’s that time of year again. It’s time for the Fort Campbell 2015 Retiree Appreciation Day, it’stime to start thinking about Autumn and Thanksgiving, and for you over achievers out there – startbragging about having your Christmas shopping finished. Hey, I’m not giving you a hard time aboutit – it’s just not something I can brag about! I don’t really enjoy shopping, so I tend to procrastinate…Being a Retiree (or a Retiree Family member) gives you a lot of privileges on post, like shopping
at the Exchange and the Commissary. If you want to, you can now live in on-post housing! It alsomeans that you can still use MWR facilities, participate in activities, and attend special events. Theseare benefits that I hope you are continuing to enjoy! I started trying to list everything you could do,but the list was very long and I was running out of space. Instead, I’ll just ask you to visit our website at www.campbell.armymwr.com. Click on “Facilities and Programs” at the top of the pageand you’ll see all of the categories and links for individual webpages. Explore each page to yourheart’s content. If you have questions, just click on the blue “Email Us” button and submit yourquestion. You can also post your questions on our Facebook page atwww.facebook.com/FortCampbellMWR.I hope your Summer was Super and that your Fall will be Fantastic!
Read our blog at www.fortcampbellmwrlife.com.You'll find blogs of interest and blogs for information
and sometimes - blogs just for fun.
EditorCynDe Clack
ContributorsTed FaulknerTara GoodsonKaren GrimsleyStaci MurphyArica Urena PublisherCreative ink
Creative DirectorSears Hallett
AdvertisingNichole [email protected]
PhotographyCynDe ClackJenelle GrewellDebbie SuttonCampbell Crossing
Shutterstock pgs 6, 13, 14, 15, 18
Thinkstock pg 6
Disclaimers:Fort Campbell’s MWR Life Magazine is a monthlymagazine produced by the Fort Campbell MWRMarketing Department under the authority of AR215-1. Facilities and activities publicized are opento authorized patrons.The mention or appearanceof commercial advertisers, commercial sponsorsand/or their logos does not constitute endorsement by the Federal Government. The information in this issue is current at the timeof publication; activities and events are subject tochange.
MWR Marketing is located at 5663 ScreamingEagle Blvd, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. For moreinformation, call 270-798-7535 or log on towww.campbell.armymwr.com.24 hr. event line - 270-798-3172 www.facebook.com/fortcampbellmwr
Inside this issue3 Veterans in the Community
Fort Campbell’s Most Enthusiastic RetireeMeet Debbie Sutton, this issue’s community leader.
6 SFL-TAPWhat Does it Mean to be a Soldier For Life?Let the helpful staff assist you.
7 Spotlight on MWRA Season of CreativityDiscover your artistic talents.
11 Retirement ServicesHow Divorce Affects Retiree Benefits Avoid costly fees, know the basic facts.
16 Info ShareCampbell Crossing Offers Housing to RetireesEnjoy the convenience of living on-post.
17 On the HomefrontHonoring Combat Medics, Past and PresentThe 6th Annual Angels on the Battlefield event.
CynDe Clack, [email protected](270) 461-0274
I had heard her name for quite a while before meetingher. Seems like everyone knew Debbie, and I couldn’t wait tomeet her. Her bubbly, kind - but no nonsense - reputation preceded her, so my expectations were high. To say she didn’t disappoint is an understatement. Within minutes ofmeeting Debbie, I was completely at ease and felt like I hadknown her for years instead of minutes. How exactly doesshe do that? I still haven’t figured it out, but I know she is aleader within our community upon whom I would like tomodel myself.
Debbie Sutton retired from the Army as a Master Sergeant in 2005 at Fort Knox. While serving in the Army,she was stationed here, as well as Japan, Panama, and Germany. Her last assignment was an an ROTC in-structor at Austin Peay State University. While on active duty,her jobs ranged from maintenance to signal to field artillery,but that’s just a small part of Debbie’s story. From a youngage, Debbie made an effort to learn from those surrounding her. Her experience in the Army helped shapehow she relates to people. She has the uncanny ability to relate to everyone!
Immediately after retirement, Debbie worked in the Casualty Assistance Office for two years and then transitioned to the Equal Opportunity Office (EEO). As an
Assistant/Technician, shewas nominated and selectedfor Civilian Employee of theYear in 2008, after only beingin the position for a year.What a wonderful accom-plishment and well deserved!Her promotion to EEO Specialist occurred in 2009and she been promotedwithin her position severaltimes to her current grade.As an EEO Specialist, she iscurrently responsible for resolving disputes and forprocessing informal and formal EEO complaints. Sheis also responsible for assisting the command inEEO policy compliance andfor coordinating activities forthe EEO Special Emphasis Program.
After retiring, and while employed full time, Debbieearned a Master of Science degree in Human Development
Fort Campbell’s Most Enthusiastic RetireeVeterans in the Community
By Tara Goodson
3
and Leadership from Murray State University,graduating Summa CumLaude with a 4.0 GPA. Sheearned her Bachelor’s degree from Columbia College with a major inCriminal Justice and aminor in Sociology. She alsoearned an Associate’s degreefrom Columbia College inGeneral Studies. Debbie was featured in Outstanding
College and University Students 6th Edition (National Dean’sList). She is a member of Phi Kappa Phi, the oldest, largestand most selective honor society (Murray State University)and a member of Alpha Sigma Lambda (honor society) at Columbia College.
In 2012, Debbie implemented a program titled “Resolving Conflicts on the Job,” a training opportunity forCivilian employees and military personnel about resolvingconflict at the lowest level possible. This is an idea many ofus can logically relate to, but need assistance in using. Whileproviding this program, Debbie also served as a mentor to a Leadership Fort Campbell (LFC) student.
My first interaction with Debbie occurred via email. I had recently been accepted as an LFC student for the 2012class and was in need of a mentor. I was a little delayed in myrequest and a co-student beat me to the punch. After replying (and denying) my email request, Debbie picked upthe phone and called me at work. Even though she wasn’table to be my mentor, she was able to recommend one andwas there every step of the way throughout the course of theLFC class. The time she took to speak with me directly afterreplying via email is something that comes naturally to her.It’s about personal interaction with Debbie, and the peopleshe interacts with on a daily basis.
No matter the setting that Debbie finds herself, she iscomfortable, and puts those around her at ease. Underneaththe smile and welcoming words is a no-nonsense woman.She has a way of seeing the core issue in a situation or problem and targeting it. That skill helps her in her everydaywork life as an EEO Specialist. But being an EEO Specialistisn’t Debbie’s only success!
She is a graduate of the Justice Center of Atlanta, Inc,Basic Mediation Skills with Clinical Practicum Course, approved by the Supreme Court of Georgia’s Commission on Dispute Resolution, Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute’s (DEOMI) Special Emphasis ProgramManagers Course, (DEOMI)’s EEO Mediation Certification Program Course, and EEO Counselor’s Certification Course.Debbie is a graduate of the U.S. Army’s Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Course, and the Crisis
Leadership Course. She is certifiedas a Sexual Harassment Assault Response Prevention (SHARP)Instructor. Debbie is a Fort Campbell Civilian Health PromotionProgram Board Member, a Combined Federal Campaign (CFC)Board Member, an LFC AlumniBoard Committee Member, a TeamCaptain for the American Cancer Society, and a volunteer for TutorAdult Literacy Council. She has volunteered as a mentor for theShelter for Battered and AbusedWomen. Debbie participated in twomedical assistance and clothingmissions to assist people in ruralareas and villages of Nigeria, Abuja and Kenya, Africa. I’mpretty impressed at what she has accomplished and it helpsme set goals as a Civilian employee to be like her.
Throughout the few years I’ve known Debbie, the core ofher as a person has always come back to how she was raisedand the enthusiasm in which she tackles projects. Her Family is active in their communities and they instilled thesense of service in her when she was a child. That sense ofservice does reflect in Debbie as an adult and is somethingshe has passed onto her three daughters. No matter if she ismediating with EEO, sitting at a board meeting, volunteering for causes, or participating in MWR activities,you will be able to hear her cheer everyone on and see thesmile on her face. This Army Retiree continues to serve thecommunity 10 years after removing her uniform!
www.campbell.armymwr.com 4
6
The days of the Army transitioning process being called ACAP arelong gone. The process has now been rebranded into the Soldier-for Life Transition Assistance Program (SFL-TAP). Sure itmay seem like a long name, but it is a name that packs a powerfulpunch. Some time ago, you made the decision to raise your righthand in an effort to protect and serve this great nation. Our loyalty toyou does not expire just because you made the decision to take offthe uniform. We want you to know that you are considered a “Soldier-for-Life” and the Soldier-for-Life Transition Assistance Center is here to assist you with understanding your benefits and entitlements under the VOW Act of 2011.
Sometimes the transitioning process can be one of uncertainty.This is why it is always a great idea to have more than just a Plan A.“My Plan A is working just fine”, you say. However, it is highly recommended that you have a Plan B just in case Plan A takes a nosedive. Our mission at the SFL-TAP center is to help you navigate andplan your course of action. Our SFL-TAP team consists of over 20 professional Transition Assistance Career andFinance Counselors who are dedicated to ensuring that you have a successful transition.
Our highly trained SFL-TAP team also facilitates a variety of seminars that you, as aRetiree, are more than welcome to attend…forlife. We offer monthly enrichment seminarssuch as Social Media/LinkedIn, InterviewPreparation, Personality Assessment, Law Enforcement, and How to Apply for a FederalJob-USA Jobs. Still deciding on which seminarto take? Well, take them all…as many times asyou like; the choice is yours. There is no limitto the amount of seminars that you can take.
Do you define your Civilian interviewing techniques as a tad bitoutdated? Here at SFL-TAP we can assist you with refining your
interviewing skills also. Our center offers the option to schedule in-person mock interviews with two or more counselors in order toprepare you for the interviewing process. Scheduled for a telephonicinterview? We can conduct a telephonic mock interview with you byplacing you in another room and one of our counselors will simulatea telephonic mock interview. Also, feedback will be provided to youimmediately following the mock interview.
Are you interested in starting your own business? We have youcovered! Here at the SFL-TAP center we also offer a 2-day immersiveentrepreneurship seminar called Boots 2 Business. This workshopis taught by the Small Business Association (SBA) and discusses howto start your own business, how to write a business plan, and financing options. This workshop is the perfect starting point forthose who are consider to start their own business.
Additionally, our SFL-TAP team is proud to sponsor Quarterly JobFairs and Wednesday Employer Events. Our Job Fairs are the largestin the region and boast over 150 employers who each have at least 10positions to fill. SFL-TAP hosts several Job Fairs annually that consistof employers from the Department of Defense, other Federal agencies, and local, national and international employers covering avariety of industry fields.
Wednesday Employer Events are held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. andfeature organizations that are actively searching for candidates who possess yourqualifications. Visit the center or follow SFL-TAP on Facebook at:www.facebook.com/FTCAMPBELLLACAP fora calendar detailing what companies you canexpect at which Events.
Remember, we are here to lend a helpinghand during your transition, or if you have already separated from the military. You have a valuable support system that is at your disposal. If you are interested in scheduling a one-on-one counseling session
with a Transition Assistance Program Counselor, please call (270) 798-5000. We look forward to serving you.
SFL - TAPWhat Does It Mean to Be a Soldier for Life?
by Arica Urena, Soldier for Life – Transition Assistance Program Counselor
The landscape is transforming into an array of hues that instantly mesmerize onlookers. The humidity is starting to decreaseas cool breezes fill the air. The wind gently blows as the tree branchessway, permitting leaves to gracefully fall to the earth. As we prepare to say good bye to summer, we say farewell to flip-flops and summertoys. Now we welcome autumn where the activities we participate in often change in response to the seasons. Mother Nature’s intricate landscape is the perfect muse you need in order to spark your creativity.
Do you have an artistic side that you’ve always dreamed of exploring? Well, the Guenette Arts & Crafts Center can help you tobring your artistic desires to life. The center hosts a variety of classes
to develop your abilities and bring yourartistic desires to life. Monthly classes rangefrom stained glass, soap making, wheelthrowing, and ceramic pouring. As soon asyou enter the center, you will automaticallybe cast into a creative setting filled with inspirations that will nurture and fuel yourartistic desires.
Have you ever dreamed of sculpting figurines? How about trying your hand atwheel-throwing? Or what about building acabinet from scratch? Interested in makinga custom frame? You have the opportunity todo it all! The staff at Guenette Arts & CraftsCenter is dedicated to making sure your visions become a reality. Employees areknowledgeable in a variety of creative areas,
and are also willing to assist all artistic levels ranging from the noviceto the expert.
The Woodshop is the perfect location for those who are interested in a do-it-yourself wood based project. The Woodshop isequipped with a variety of carpentry equipment such as table saws,drill presses, and band saws, just to name a few. A variety of DIY remarkable projects are created at the shop daily. Examples includecabinets, entertainment stands, and even roll top desks! Patrons alsohave the opportunity to create and engrave wood pen sets. The dailyshop fee to utilize the shop is only $5. As always, safety first! Prior toutilizing the facility, each individual is required to attend a Safety Classand possess a valid DA Form 3031 Qualification Card. The cost of the
Safety Class is only $10. The Stained Glass class is another popu-
lar offering at the center. The center has severalglass grinders as well as a variety of colored andtextured stained glass that you can use. You havethe opportunity to transform you stained glass intoa variety of creations. Because lead solder is usedduring the formation of stained glass figurines,women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are notable to participate. The cost of the class is $22 plusthe cost of the glass.
Soap Making class provides you with theability to fashion soap into an out of the box creation. In the center, you will see examples of theimagination of others at play. Patrons have craftedsoap into the shapes of cupcakes, frogs, and lilypads. The great thing is that if you can imagine it,you can create it. With the holidays rapidly approaching, soap sculptures will most definitelybe a gift that Family and friends will treasure.
Ceramic Pouring class teaches studentshow to create ceramic pieces by hand. The facilityhouses over 2,000 ceramic molds to choose from.You can make ceramic bowls, flower pots, and evenDisney characters! After your mold has completely
Spotlight on MWR
by Arica Urena
A Season of Creativity
dried, you also have the option to paint it using a variety of acrylicpaints and brushes. The facility also stocks paints that are availablefor resale. Clients may also choose to make their creations food andplant safe.
The Paint Your Own Pottery class is self-paced activity that allows customers to unleash their inner Picasso and Monet. GuenetteArts & Crafts Center stocks a variety of reasonably priced bisques.Customers are free to use the brushes and acrylic paints located in themulti-craft area or can bring in their own supplies.
Instructor led Framing classes are offered twice a week for thosewho are new to the art of framing. It is recommended that you bringin an item that you would like to frame such as a picture or a certificate. The instruction fee is $10 and does not include materials,hardware fee ($2.50), or wizard corners. Are you confident in yourframing abilities? If so, you are welcome to utilize the framing area onyour own for a daily shop fee of $5 to work on your latest project.
Patrons who are interested in sculpting are in luck! The centernot only offers sculpting clay for sale, but a center employee will bemore than happy to fire it for you. As you see, the possibilities to create are endless when you visit Guenette Arts & Crafts Center!
Guenette Arts & Crafts Center welcomes groups and parties toattend classes. The facility is the perfect gathering place for Familyand friends to come together in order to unleash their creativity whilelaughing and having some good old fashioned fun! Feel free to schedule a “Guys’ Night Out”, “Girls’ Night Out, or a birthday party.If you are interested in volunteering at the facility, please call (270) 798-6693/3625. Guenette Arts & Crafts Center is proud of itsvolunteer community and willingly accepts those who have an interest in the arts.
All classes require advance registration in order to secure yourspot. As the seasons change, there is no better time than right now toembark on your creative journey. You will truly be amazed as youwatch a simple piece of material transform in front of your eyes into apiece of art. Once your project is complete, you will not only feel a senseof pride, but a sense of accomplishment. Guenette Arts & Crafts Center would be honored to take you on your creative voyage.
Guenette Arts & Crafts Center’s hours of operation are: Tuesday & Thursday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Wednesday 12:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.;Friday & Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and closed Sunday & Monday. Likeus on Facebook at facebook.com/fortcampbellmwr to view the center’smonthly events calendar or call (270) 798-6693/3625 for more information. Guenette Arts & Crafts Center is located at 89 ScreamingEagle Boulevard next to Wilson Theater.
8
1. 101st Airborne Division Headquarters2. 19th Hole (Cole Park)3. Army Community Service (ACS) & ACS Director4. Army Education Center5. Arts and Crafts Center, Guenette6. ASYMCA Backdoor Boutique7. ASYMCA Family Center8. Auto Service Center, Air Assault Auto9. Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Program (BOSS)10. Blanch�eld Army Community Hospital11. Bowling Center, Hooper12. Civilian Personnel Advisory Center13. Commissary2. Cole Park Commons30. CYSS, Parent Central Services (Central Registration)30. CYSS, School Liaison38. CYSS, SKIESUnlimited Center14. Dog Kennels17. Dawg Haus (Dining)18. Estep Wellness Center19. Equipment Rental (Gear-to-Go)20. Exchange/Food Court/Mall21. Family Resource Center (FRC)22. Financial Readiness (Army Emergency Relief)
23. Fryar Stadium, Sports Admin Of�ce2. Golf Course (Cole Park)15. Joe Swing (Rental Recreation Facility)20. Leisure Travel Services 26. Library, R.F. Sink Memorial27. MWR Director28. Museum, Don F. Pratt29. Outdoor Recreation Main Building31. Pool, Baldonado32. Pool, Dolan33. Pool, Gardner Indoor34. Pool, Single9. Recreation Center, Dale Wayrynen14. Riding Stables39. Soldier and Family Assistance Center (SFAC)2. Southern Buffet (Cole Park)41. Smokehaus (Dining)42. Teen Club 24/743. The Zone44. Tricare 45. Veterinary Services46. Wilson Theater42. Youth Center (Taylor)42. Youth Sports
(270)798-9793(270)798-4610x106(270)798-9322(270)798-3201(270)798-6693(270)956-1566(270)798-7422(270)956-1101/1100(270)798-7858(270)798-8055(270)798-5887(270)798-7161(270)798-3663(270)798-4610(270)798-0674(270)798-9874(270)412-5811(270)798-5590(270)798-0766(270)798-4664/4023(270)798-6806(270)439-1841(270)956-2935(270)798-5518
(270)798-3094(270)798-4906(270)798-4610x119(270)798-7436(270)798-5729(270)798-9953(270)798-3215/4986(270)798-2175(270)798-5207(270)798-5350(270)798-6310(270)798-4247(270)798-7391(270)798-2629(270)412-6000(270)798-4610(270)798-4993(270)956-1033(270)461-06031-877-874-2273(270) 798-3614(270) 798-6857(270)798-3643(270)798-6355
6. ASYMCA Backdoor Boutique, Guenette5. Arts and Crafts Center
4. Army Education Center3. Army Community Service (ACS) & ACS Dir2. 19th Hole (Cole Park)1. 101st Airborne Division Headquarters
6. ASYMCA Backdoor Boutique, Guenette
ector3. Army Community Service (ACS) & ACS Dir
1. 101st Airborne Division Headquarters
(270)956-1566(270)798-6693(270)798-3201(270)798-9322(270)798-4610x106(270)798-9793
27. MWR Dir, R.F26. Library
e T20. Leisur15. Joe Swing (Rental Recr2. Golf Course (Cole Park)23. Fryar Stadium, Sports Admin Of
ector27. MWR Dir. Sink Memorial R.F F. Sink Memorial
ravel Services e Teation Facility)15. Joe Swing (Rental Recr
2. Golf Course (Cole Park)�ce23. Fryar Stadium, Sports Admin Of
(270)798-9953(270)798-5729(270)798-7436(270)798-4610x119(270)798-4906(270)798-3094
30. CYSS, School Liaisonent Central Services (Central Registration)30. CYSS, Par
Cole Park Commons2.13. Commissary12. Civilian Personnel Advisory Center
, Hooper11. Bowling Center10. Blanch�eld Army Community Hospital
Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Pr9., Air Assault Auto8. Auto Service Center
7. ASYMCA Family Center6. ASYMCA Backdoor Boutique
ent Central Services (Central Registration)
12. Civilian Personnel Advisory Center
10. Blanch�eld Army Community Hospitalogram (BOSS)Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Pr
, Air Assault Auto
6. ASYMCA Backdoor Boutique
(270)798-9874(270)798-0674(270)798-4610(270)798-3663(270)798-7161(270)798-5887(270)798-8055(270)798-7858(270)956-1101/1100(270)798-7422(270)956-1566
Southern Buf2.39. Soldier and Family Assistance Center (SF14. Riding Stables
eation Center9. Recr34. Pool, Single33. Pool, Gar32. Pool, Dolan31. Pool, Baldonado29. Outdoor Recr28. Museum, Don F
fet (Cole Park)Southern BufAC)39. Soldier and Family Assistance Center (SF
14. Riding Stablesayrynen, Dale Weation Center
34. Pool, Singledner Indoor33. Pool, Gar
32. Pool, Dolan31. Pool, Baldonado
eation Main Building29. Outdoor Recr. Pratt28. Museum, Don F
(270)798-4610(270)412-6000(270)798-2629(270)798-7391(270)798-4247(270)798-6310(270)798-5350(270)798-5207(270)798-2175(270)798-3215/4986(270)798-9953
AC)
22. Financial Readiness (Army Emerce Center (FRC)21. Family Resour
20. Exchange/Food Court/Mall-to-Go)19. Equipment Rental (Gear
ellness Center18. Estep W Wellness Center17. Dawg Haus (Dining)14. Dog Kennels38. CYSS, SKIESUnlimited Center
gency Relief)22. Financial Readiness (Army Emerce Center (FRC)
20. Exchange/Food Court/Mall-to-Go)
38. CYSS, SKIESUnlimited Center
(270)798-5518(270)956-2935(270)439-1841(270)798-6806(270)798-4664/4023(270)798-0766(270)798-5590(270)412-5811
outh Sports42. Youth Center (T42. Y
46. Wilson Theatereterinary Services45. V Veterinary Services
e ricar44. T43. The Zone
een Club 24/742. T Teen Club 24/741. Smokehaus (Dining)
outh Sportsaylor)outh Center (T
46. Wilson Theatereterinary Services
43. The Zoneeen Club 24/7
41. Smokehaus (Dining)
(270)798-6355(270)798-3643(270) 798-6857(270) 798-36141-877-874-2273(270)461-0603(270)956-1033(270)798-4993
Retirement Services
By Ted Faulkner
Divorce after retirement is a subject area that is often explained by what people have heard from friends and colleagues rather than from subject matter experts. That iswhy it is important to understand exactly how Retiree benefits are affected after a divorce. It is critically important to know at least some basic information. Havingthe divorce decree or court order written correctly will savea number of headaches for the Retiree and former Spouse.Especially when, if written incorrectly, DFAS may requirethe Retiree and former Spouse to go back to court to havethe decree or court order amended - a costly endeavor.
First and foremost, attorneys are not experts on divorce and Retiree benefits. You would be surprised howoften Retirees and former Spouses come to our office afterrealizing their attorneys didn’t tell them everything theyneeded to know or they assumed that everything was takencare of when it wasn’t. There is simply a deficit of information related to this subject.
Benefits most often linked to divorce are formerSpouse payments from retired pay, the Survivor BenefitPlan (SBP), and ID card benefits. Each subject has specificrules attached that should be understood so that each partyin the divorce is able to complete the process and achievethe agreed upon result. Some of these rules are written intolaw. As such, there is no gray area or wiggle room, even ifit is the lawyer’s fault. Knowingsome basic facts can prevent alot of heartache and possiblyprevent having to re-hireattorneys and go backto court to have the decree amended. Remember that the attorneys are likelythe ones that will ironout the agreement, notthe judge. That beingsaid, the attorneys most
likely will know what the judge will allow (in most cases)and will adhere to precedent. Even though the attorneysnegotiate the agreement, the judge is the one who looks itover, determines if it is correct, and ensures that both parties are in agreement. Again, don’t assume the attorneys or the judge knows what right looks like with regard to these benefits.
Despite popular belief, former Spouse payments arenot covered by any regulatory guidance (law, regulation,etc.). Many people believe that former Spouses are authorized a specific percentage of retired pay. This is nottrue. Percentage of retired pay for former Spouses is different from county-to-county and state-to-state. Judgescommonly allow 2.5% for each year of marriage, after a minimum length of marriage. This calculation is the onethat leads folks to believe that a former Spouse is authorized 50% after 20 years of marriage. However, it doesn’t always work out that way. It is important to remember that the judge is allowing a portion of retiredpay as relief to the former Spouse due to the years of constant moving and dealing with the unique characteristics of military life. Many times, the Spousecould not gain a foothold on a career. Others chose to raisechildren rather than working. This is the basis for these
payments and it is common tosee a judge allow 50% of re-tired pay in formerSpouse payments. Therehave been situationswhere the Spouse hashad a career during the marriage. In cases suchas this, it is likely that thepercentage agreed uponwould be smaller.
The Defense Financeand Accounting Service(DFAS) adheres to the
How Divorce Affects Retiree Benefits
12
Uniformed Services Former Spouse Protection Act (USFSPA). The USFSPA gives a State court the authority totreat military retired pay as marital property and divide itbetween the Spouses (provided the court has jurisdictionover the military member). The USFSPA does not automatically entitle a former Spouse to a portion of themember's retired pay. It does, however, limit the amount ofthe member’s retired pay which can be paid to a formerSpouse to 50% of the member’s disposable retired pay (grossretired pay less authorized deductions). It requires that theparties must have been married 10 years or more while themember performed at least 10 years of service creditabletowards retirement eligibility before a division of retiredpay is enforceable. It specifies how an award of military retired pay must be expressed and it also provides a formerSpouse with a means of enforcing an alimony and/or childsupport award. Also, it specifies that the former Spousemust have been awarded a portion of a member's militaryretired pay as property in their final court order. Court orders enforceable under the USFSPA include final decreesof divorce, dissolution, annulment, legal separation, andcourt-ordered property settlements incident to such
decrees. The pertinent court order must provide for thepayment of child support, alimony, or retired pay as property, to a former Spouse. This law also allows DFAS tomake direct payments to former Spouses.
The USFSPA limits the amount of former Spouse payments to 50% of the Retiree’s disposable retired pay(gross pay minus authorized deductions such as SBP, andany mandatory or statutory payments, such as wage garnishments). Additionally, DFAS will pay up to 15% forchild support payments or alimony, for a maximum of 65%of disposable retired pay. In order for the award to be enforceable under the USFSPA, it must be expressed in amanner consistent with the USFSPA, and DFAS must be
able to determine the amount of the award. Furthermore,any former Spouse payments are taxable even if the divorcedecree states that the portion of retired pay is not supposedto be.
The USFSPA states that for retired pay as a propertyaward to be enforceable, it must be expressed either as afixed dollar amount or as a percentage of disposable retiredpay. If DFAS is not able to determine the amount of the former Spouse’s award from the information provided inthe court order, the former Spouse has two alternatives.One alternative is for the former Spouse to obtain a newcourt order clarifying the former Spouse’s retired pay asproperty award by expressing it in an acceptable manner.The other alternative is for the former Spouse to provideDFAS with any missing information by submitting a notarized agreement with the required information signedby both the former Spouse and member. If the parties wish,they may provide DFAS with the fixed dollar amount or percentage of disposable retired pay the former Spouse isto receive. The parties may want to consult their attorneysbefore executing any such agreement in lieu of a clarifyingorder.
Another important thing to understand about formerSpouse payments is that the former Spouse must requestpayments from DFAS. The Retiree cannot do this as theforms required must be signed by the former Spouse, notthe member. We receive numerous calls wondering whenformer Spouse payments will begin because it was assumedthe Retiree would complete the action. This must be doneby the former Spouse.
The Survivor Benefit Plan is a law and as such, therules of the program must be adhered to. By law, the SBPcan be changed from Spouse coverage to former Spousecoverage after divorce. However, if the Retiree declinedSpouse SBP coverage upon retirement or upon marriage
www.campbell.armymwr.com
How Divorce Affects Retiree Benefits continues on page 13
or remarriage (you must notify DFAS of declination beforethe one year anniversary of marriage/remarriage) after retirement, there is no SBP, and as such, it does not exist asproperty during a divorce. Again, the divorce decree mustbe written correctly so that DFAS understands the intentionof the judge. If the language of the decree says “…must provide Survivor Benefit Plan”, it is not specific and allowsthe Retiree to choose any amount of SBP coverage, from$300 up to full gross pay. Compare that statement to “…mustprovide Spouse Survivor Benefit Plan coverage based on theRetiree’s full gross pay.” There is a big difference betweenthe two, especially to DFAS. If the decree calls for the Retireeto provide SBP coverage for children of that marriage, thismust also be specified in the divorce decree. Ensure the attorney drafts the decree correctly.
ID card benefits are extremely important to formerSpouses. These benefits include access to TRICARE, military installations, commissaries and the Exchange,among others. Most Retirees have never heard of the20/20/20 rule, but this rule is critical to determining if a former Spouse is authorized ID card benefits after divorce.The rule requires that: the parties have been married for atleast 20 years (date of marriage to date of divorce or annulment); the service member performed at least 20 yearsof service creditable for retirement pay; there is at least a 20year overlap of the marriage and the military service. Ifthese qualifications are met, the former Spouse is authorized ID card benefits for the rest of their life (unlessthey remarry). If the former Spouse meets the first two requirements but the overlap is between fifteen and 20 years(20/20/15), the former Spouse is authorized ID card privileges for one year after the date of divorce. If the formerSpouse remarries, ID card privileges are stopped. If thatmarriage ends in divorce or death, the former Spouse canhave limited ID card benefits reinstated, except for TRICARE coverage.
Knowing the relationship between retirement benefitsand divorce can prevent costly attorney fees if the divorcedecree must be amended or changed. For more information,you can always contact us at the Retirement Services Officeto answer your questions at (270) 798-5280/3310 or [email protected] or [email protected].
How Divorce Affects Retiree Benefits continued:
16www.campbell.armymwr.com
Military Retirees now have another choice for housing inthe Fort Campbell, KY area. Campbell Crossing, the on postprivatized military housing community located on Fort Campbell, is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications from qualifying military Retirees. Operating since2003, Campbell Crossing is the 50-year partnership betweenthe Department of the Army and developer Lendlease for theprivatization of military Family housing.
The pet-friendly community boasts a variety of housingoptions including two, three and four bedroom homes.Monthly rent also covers basic utilities, trash and recycling pick up, free use of community centers, 24-hour emergency maintenance and more! Campbell Crossing hosts multipleresident events and activities throughout the year where residents can come together and meet their neighbors.
Retirees can enjoy the conveniences that on post livinghas to offer. You can hop in your car and within minutes be atBlanchfield Army Community Hospital (BACH), or be readyto play 18 holes of golf at Cole Park Golf Course. Minuteslater you can be at the Exchange or Commissary to shop forfood or a host of other items. Retirees can also enjoy the aquatics facilities, physical fitness facilities, bowling center,restaurants and more!
If you enjoy travelling and will be away from your homefor any length of time, the Campbell Crossing staff will watchover it and even perform preventative maintenance on thehome so it’s in tip-top shape when you return.
“Campbell Crossing strives to make our residents feel athome by providing quality, comfortable homes in a communitythat is rich in history,” said Angela Root, director of propertymanagement for Campbell Crossing. “Our first priority is, and
always will be, taking care of our military service members andtheir Families. We are now equally excited to offer housing tomilitary Retirees who would like the option to live on post,within a military community that cares for and understands their needs.”
In addition to the peace of mind that renting at CampbellCrossing affords military Retirees, we also want to make youaware that Lendlease and Campbell Crossing are committed tobeing good stewards in our local communities. Each year 20 thousand dollars is set aside by the Lend Lease (US) Community Fund (Lendlease’s nonprofit organization), to beused for donations to local organizations that provide aide to
our local military Families. Campbell Crossing is currently
accepting applications for on post housingfrom Retiree’s, DoD Civilians and E6 andabove single Soldiers and geographic bachelors, with no deposits or applicationfee’s. Applications can be submitted on theCampbell Crossing website atwww.campbellcrossingllc.com, by fax at (931) 431-9003 or in person at 850 GeorgiaAvenue, Fort Campbell, KY 42232. Currentlythere is availability in several neighborhoodsresulting in minimal wait times, less than 30days, with some homes available for same daymove in!
Those interested in applying can contact the Campbell Crossing leasing officeat (931) 431-9003, open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdayfrom 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information,photos and floorplans, visitwww.campbellcrossingllc.com.
Info ShareCampbell Crossing Offers Housing to Retirees
By Staci Murphy
About Campbell CrossingCampbell Crossing LLC, the partnership between developerLendlease and the Department of the Army, is the premier
housing community for the Soldiers and Families of the 101stAirborne Division (Air Assault) and home to the first zero-en-ergy homes project ever constructed on a military installation.Lendlease took over operations of Fort Campbell’s on-posthousing in 2003 as part of the Military Housing PrivatizationInitiative (MHPI), a program aimed at improving the quality oflife for Soldiers and their Families. Since then, the communityhas received numerous recognitions, including the Army’s2012 RCI Project of the Year, National Association of HomeBuilders (NAHB) National Green Building Award and the National Council for Public-Private Partnerships InnovationAward. Lendlease will own, manage, renovate, develop, andsustain the more than 4,500 homes of Campbell Crossing until
2053. www.campbellcrossingllc.com
The Armed Services YMCA of FortCampbell will honor combat medics at our6th annual Angels of the Battlefield Gala on Thursday, October 29. Medics from FortCampbell and the 101st Airborne Divisionwho have administered life-saving medical treatment and trauma care on the battlefieldwill be recognized. These Angels of the Battlefield are compassionate men andwomen who risk their own lives to care forothers. They are often the reason why somany of our nation’s heroes who arewounded in battle are able to return home totheir Families and communities. This year’sevent will also include recognition of fiveVietnam era combat medics in honor of the50th anniversary of the deployment of the101st Airborne Division to Vietnam. Angelsof the Battlefield is the only event in our community which celebrates the courage of military medical personnel on the front lines.
Historically, the Armed Services YMCA has supported menand women on the battlefield with the earliest commission in 1861,after a conference with President Abraham Lincoln led to the
full-scale recruitment of YMCA - volunteers.Nearly 5,000 volunteers, both men and women,served as surgeons, nurses and chaplains during the Civil War. In addition, they distributed medical supplies, food and clothing,and taught Soldiers to read and write. As a wayto acknowledge and accredit the commitment ofmilitary medical personnel, the Angels of theBattlefield Gala was established. We are pleasedto have honored over 100 Fort Campbell and101st Airborne Division combat medics over thepast five years.
The Angels of the Battlefield event will beheld on Thursday, October 29, 2015 at the Wilma Rudolph Event Center at 6 p.m. MajorGeneral Richard W. Thomas, Director of the Defense Health Agency Healthcare OperationsDirectorate will be our guest speaker. Everyone is welcome to join us as we express sincere appreciation for these heroic men and
women, for their service in recent conflicts and during the Vietnamera. For tickets, please contact Karen Grimsley at (270) 798-7422 [email protected].
On the HomefrontBy Karen Grimsley
Honoring Combat Medics, Past and Present
