Tony

WASHINGTON (Tribune News Service) — The Senate Appropriations Committee, in a report this week accompanying its new Defense spending bill, expressed concern over reports of thousands of military families suffering from hunger. “Studies have found that one in eight military families were food insecure prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and this number has now grown to one in five,” the report said.

What’s New with Enlisted Women in Submarines The Navy is actively seeking female Sailors to convert into the force to fill open billets on submarines with integrated crews, as well as billets in crews slated for integration. Five-years after enlisted women first joined the Submarine Force, the Navy has now taken the program to the next level. Announced in NAVADMIN 233/21 on October 21, female Sailors in non-nuclear ratings and in pay grades E8 and below can apply for conversion into the Submarine Force at any time from now on. Also, some Female Sailors in nuclear power ratings and training pipelines can apply through a separate approval process. “The Navy and the Submarine Force are pleased to announce that applications for female Sailors in pay grades E1-E8 to convert to Submarine Force non-nuclear trained ratings are being accepted on a continuous basis,” said Rear Admiral James Waters III, Director, Military Personnel Plans and Policy. “Applications will be processed as they are received, and there is no specified due date.” The Navy is actively seeking female Sailors to convert into the force to fill open billets on submarines with integrated crews, as well as billets in crews slated for integration. Female officers have been going to sea in submarines since 2011. Three years later, the plan to incorporate enlisted women was announced, which took lessons from the past 40 years of integration of women into other Navy communities. The first cadre of female submariners was built using a top-down approach, instead of from the bottom-up as in previous integrations. This resulted in female officers paving the way, followed by senior enlisted leaders to ensure junior enlisted females had solid support systems to rely on. Between 2015 and 2018, the Navy made four separate calls for female Sailors to convert into submarine ratings. Currently, there are over 200 enlisted female Sailors serving as part of eight crews. The long-term plan is that by 2030, 33 submarine crews will have female officers and 14 crews will have female enlisted Sailors. All classes of submarines will be integrated with female officers. Only the current guided-missile submarines (SSGN) and two ballistic missile submarines (SSBN) have women on board. Going forward, all future Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines and all Virginia-class fast attack submarines, starting with the USS New Jersey (SSN 796), will have enlisted women in their crews. A complete list of currently integrated submarines and their homeports is listed in the message. Professional Apprentice Career Track (PACT) Sailors and junior rated Sailors are encouraged to apply, even with limited time in service, no warfare qualification or at-sea experience. For E-6 and junior Sailors, the following submarine career fields are open for conversion: Service Support career fields including Yeoman Submarines (YNS), Culinary Specialist Submarines (CSS) and Logistics Specialist Submarines (LSS). Submarine Electronics career fields including Sonar Technician Submarines (STS), Fire Control Technician (FT), Electronics Technician-Navigation (ETV), Missile Technician (MT), and Information Systems Technician Submarines (ITS-Electronic Warfare and Communications career paths). Mechanical career fields include Torpedoman (TM) and Machinists Mate-Auxiliary (MMA). E-7 and E-8 applications will be accepted in the Information Systems Technician Submarines (ITS-Electronic Warfare and Communications career paths Yeoman Submarines (YNS), Culinary Specialist Submarines (CSS) and Logistics Specialist Submarines (LSS). Navy officials are hoping to entice female E-7 and E-8 Personnel Specialists to apply for conversion to the YNS rating as the needed skill sets are similar. “Each application will be assessed to ensure the chief petty officer has the experience and expertise to manage and oversee all administrative and personnel actions to support the crew in the role of leading YNS aboard a submarine,” Waters said. Conversion for E-6 and below nuclear-trained female Sailors is available for both initial training pipeline Sailors, as well as qualified Sailors currently serving as instructors at Nuclear Power Training Units (NPTU). For these Sailors, requests are handled by the Nuclear Propulsion Programs Manager (OPNAV N133), in coordination with the NPTU command career counselor at the Sailor’s location. Available quotas will be filled as applications are processed, so interested Sailors should submit applications as soon as possible. Further details on the application process along with many points of contact are available in the NAVADMIN.

QUANTICO, Va. - The U.S. Naval Community College offers seven naval-relevant associate degree programs for active duty enlisted Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen during Pilot II. The first associate degree program you can apply for at the USNCC is the Military Studies degree. These are the top ten reasons you should earn a Military Studies associate degree through the USNCC. Navy Releases NAVADMIN 222/21 Announcing USNCC Pilot II US Naval Community College Selects ASU for Military Studies Program SECNAV Releases New Strategic Guidance; Naval Education Enables Critical Warfighting The U.S. Naval Community College offers seven naval-relevant associate degree programs for active duty enlisted Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen during Pilot II. The first associate degree program you can apply for at the USNCC is the Military Studies degree. Here are the top ten reasons you should earn a Military Studies associate degree through the USNCC: 1. It’s Free Education can be an expensive endeavor. Even if you use Tuition Assistance, you may still be responsible for mandatory course fees and any required books — and school books aren’t cheap! If you are an active duty enlisted Sailor, Marine, or Coast Guardsman, the USNCC covers your tuition, course fees, and textbooks, which means you don’t have to worry about those hidden costs of higher education. 2. Flexible Courses Some colleges offer an online education, which is great for you when you are balancing your high operational tempo with furthering your education. But then you find out that your online course has mandatory meeting times! The USNCC offers online and asynchronous classes, which means you can log in and get the course work for the week done on your time. The USNCC is also exploring options in competency-based education opportunities giving you even more flexibility. 3. Naval-Relevant Education Whether you are in the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, your service is rooted in naval power and maritime effectiveness. When you pursue your Military Studies associate degree through the USNCC, you are able to work with faculty and students that understand your career and how it impacts you as a leader and an individual. Taking the USNCC courses with other naval service members means your course material and discussions are directly applicable to your job today! 4. Stackable Certificates You are a full-time active duty service member; you don’t have time to take on a full course load every term or semester. The USNCC helps you achieve educational goals by meeting milestone accomplishments, where you will earn a certificate of completion in Naval Studies on the way to your associate degree in Military Studies. These can be used to provide documented evidence of educational accomplishments for your annual evaluations and make you more competitive both in the naval services and when you transition after. 5. Direct Pathway to Bachelor’s Degree Under the consortium agreement the USNCC has with its partner colleges, your associate degree will have pre-determined and established pathways to related four-year degree programs. With the Military Studies associate degree, these include opportunities to earn a Bachelor’s degree in areas such as Political Science, Military History, Security Studies, International Affairs, or Leadership. The USNCC associate degree is fully transferable, which means you have the opportunity to earn your Bachelor’s with little to no loss in credits. 6. Military-Friendly Partner College The USNCC has partnered with Arizona State University for the Military Studies degree, which means you will get an education from experienced faculty who have worked with military students for years in an online environment. You will receive a high quality education through the USNCC program. 7. Develop Critical Thinking Skills The Military Studies associate degree is about the critical thinking required to use available resources to accomplish a mission while understanding the risks involved. This skill is what successful commands and leaders must master when facing the unexpected. When you can do this at a junior enlisted level, you are more likely to quickly recognize and leverage opportunities, making you a more agile, innovative, and adaptable warfighter. 8. Breadth and Depth on Naval Understanding While the Naval Studies certificate covers the core skills you should know as an enlisted naval leader, the Military Studies associate degree goes deeper and more broadly into the topics the Naval Studies certificate covers. The Military Studies associate degree examines naval service and war from a case study approach similar to how many business schools teach business. The USNCC uses history as case studies and provides the context to understand current and future challenges using security studies and international affairs while highlighting leadership lessons throughout the course. 9. Improved Leadership Effectiveness The Military Studies associate degree program through the USNCC will help you learn more about military theory, strategy, tactics, and explore the future of defense, and become a more effective enlisted leader. 10. Investment in You Your career will come to an end one day. Whether you serve for one enlistment or 30 years, one of the things you will take with you after your military service is your education. The skills and knowledge you learn from your USNCC Military Studies associate degree will stay with you for the rest of your life. Earning your associate degree in Military Studies through the USNCC makes you a more capable enlisted leader from the first course. This free program benefits you, your command, and the Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen around you. Fill out your application for the USNCC Military Studies degree program today! The United States Naval Community College is the community college for the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. To get more information about the USNCC, go to www.usncc.edu. Click on the student interest form link to learn how to be a part of the USNCC Pilot II program. Flyer: Top 10 Reasons to Apply to the Military Studies Program at USNCC

UNCLASSIFIED// ROUTINE R 212026Z OCT 21 MID600051070020U FM CNO WASHINGTON DC TO NAVADMIN INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS NAVADMIN 234/21 MSGID/NAVADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N2N6/OCT// SUBJ/FISCAL YEAR 2021 OCEANOGRAPHER OF THE NAVY AWARD NOMINATIONS// REF/A/INST/OPNAV/20JUN19// AMPF/REF A IS OPNAVINST 1650.37A, CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS NAVAL OCEANOGRAPHY AWARD PROGRAM WHICH ESTABLISHES AWARDS TO RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN THE FIELD OF NAVAL OCEANOGRAPHY.// POC/AGCS CRAIG P. HAWKINS/OPNAV N2N6E/TEL: (703) 614-1840 /EMAIL: CRAIG.P.HAWKINS.MIL(AT)US.NAVY.MIL// POC/CAPT THOMAS A. MONEYMAKER/OPNAV N2N6E/TEL: (703) 614-1864 /EMAIL: THOMAS.A.MONEYMAKER.MIL(AT)US.NAVY.MIL// RMKS/1. The Naval Oceanography Awards program was established to recognize outstanding achievement in the field of Naval Oceanography by officers, chief petty officers, and civilians. The award is sponsored by the Oceanographer of the Navy, per reference (a). 2. Award criteria and eligibility. One awardee will be selected for each of the following awards: a. Captain Richard C. Steere Award recognizes junior officers afloat or ashore for their leadership, performance, special accomplishments, and expert application of the meteorology and oceanography sciences. U.S. Navy Active and Reserve officers in the paygrades of O1-O3 with designators of 1800/6800 are eligible. b. The Commander Mary Sears Award recognizes mid-grade officers who demonstrate sustained superior performance, outstanding leadership ability, personal initiative, cooperation and adaptability, outstanding military bearing, and exemplary military and professional conduct. U.S. Navy Active and Reserve officers in the paygrade of O4 with designators of 1800/6800 are eligible. c. The Chief Aerographers Mate John Dungan Jr. Award recognizes Navy senior enlisted in the oceanography community, afloat or ashore, for their leadership, performance, special accomplishments, and expertise in forecasting and analysis in the applied sciences of meteorology and oceanography in support of fleet operations. U.S. Navy Active and Reserve component Aerographers Mates in the paygrades of E7-E9 are eligible. d. The Matthew Henson Award recognizes Naval Oceanography civilian employees for their leadership, performance, special accomplishments, and expert application of the meteorology and oceanography sciences in support of Naval operations. Department of the Navy civilian employees at or below the grade of GS13 are eligible. 3. Nominations. The period of eligibility is from 1 October 2020 to 30 September 2021. Nomination packages should be submitted as specified per reference (a). Packages must arrive to the Oceanographer of the Navy via email to AGCS Craig Hawkins at craig.p.hawkins.mil(at)us.navy.mil and CAPT Thomas Moneymaker at thomas.a.moneymaker.mil(at)us.navy.mil no later than 6 December 2021. The Oceanographer of the Navy and Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command will convene a joint board consisting of their respective Technical Directors, Senior Enlisted Advisor/Command Master Chief, Executive Assistant/Chief of Staff, and others as appropriate who will select awardees based upon the above criteria and content of the respective nomination packages. Nominations must be unclassified and submitted on command letterhead by email (preferred) or letter mail to the following address: Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare, ATTN: OPNAV N2N6E, 2000 Navy Pentagon, Washington, D.C., 20350-2000. 4. Recognition. The Oceanographer of the Navy will announce the awards by message, and will recognize the awardees in person or via their respective Commanding Officers. 5. Released by VADM Jeffrey E. Trussler, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare, OPNAV N2N6.// BT #0001 NNNN UNCLASSIFIED//

UNCLASSIFIED// ROUTINE R 211933Z OCT 21 MID200001234020U FM CNO WASHINGTON DC TO NAVADMIN INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS NAVADMIN 233/21 PASS TO OFFICE CODES: FM CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1// INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1// MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N1/OCT// SUBJ/ENLISTED WOMEN IN SUBMARINES RATING CONVERSION PROCESS// REF/A/DOC/COMNAVPERSCOM/23APR16// REF/B/DOC/BUMED/20FEB19// REF/C/DOC/COMNAVPERSCOM/24APR18// REF/D/DOC/COMNAVPERSCOM/24APR18// REF/E/MSG/CNO WASHINGTON DC/141354ZMAY18// REF/F/DOC/OPNAV/6OCT21/ REF/G/MSG/CNO WASHINGTON DC/151555ZJUL19// NARR/REF A IS MILPERSMAN ARTICLE 1306-618, CLASS A SCHOOL AND RATING ENTRY REQUIREMENTS. REF B IS MANUAL OF THE MEDICAL DEPARTMENT (MANMED), NAVMED P-117. REF C IS MILPERSMAN ARTICLE 1440-010, CONVERSION AUTHORIZATION. REF D IS MILPERSMAN ARTICLE 1306-402, QUALIFICATION FOR ASSIGNMENT TO SUBMARINE DUTY. REF E IS NAVADMIN 118/18, PROFESSIONAL APPRENTICESHIP CAREER TRACK PROGRAM CHANGES. REF F IS OPNAVINST 1220.1F, CHANGING OR REMOVING NAVY ENLISTED CLASSIFICATION CODES FOR NUCLEAR PROPULSION PLANT PERSONNEL. REF G IS NAVADMIN 159/19, ENLISTED WOMEN IN SUBMARINES RATING CONVERSION PROCESS.// RMKS/1. The Navy and the Submarine Force are pleased to announce that applications for female Sailors in pay grades E-1 through E-8 to convert to Submarine Force non-nuclear trained ratings are being accepted on a continuous basis. Applicants will be considered for conversion to fill open billets on previously integrated submarine crews and for initial enlisted integration of submarine crews as part of the Submarine Force integration plan. Integrated submarines include USS OHIO (SSGN 726) and USS MICHIGAN (SSGN 727) in Bangor, WA and USS FLORIDA (SSGN 728), USS GEORGIA (SSGN 729), and USS WYOMING (SSBN 742) in Kings Bay, GA. 2. Applications will be processed as they are received. There is no specified due date. Since available rating quotas will be filled as applications are processed, it is recommended that interested Sailors submit applications as soon as possible. Applicants can expect to be notified by the Navy Personnel Command Enlisted Nuclear/Submarine Assignments Branch (PERS-403) and the Military Community Management, Enlisted Branch (BUPERS-32) of results within two months of submission. 3. Sailors from all communities are eligible to apply for submarine service as part of this initiative. Additional information regarding the selection process and application requirements is available via MyNavy HR at https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Career-Management/Community- Management/Enlisted/Submarine/Enlisted-Women-Submarines/. a. For E-6 and below, the following submarine career fields are open for conversion. The Non-Nuclear Enlisted Community Manager (ECM) will best fit each Sailor to a rating based on their application package inputs and continued need for each rating. (1) Service support career field includes yeoman submarines (YNS), culinary specialist submarines (CSS), and logistics specialist submarines (LSS). (2) Submarine electronics career field includes sonar technician submarines (STS), fire control technician (FT), electronics technician- navigation (ETV), missile technician (MT), and information systems technician submarines (ITS-electronic warfare and communications career paths). (3) Mechanical career field includes torpedoman (TM) and machinists mate-auxiliary (MMA). b. Applications for pay grades E-7 and E-8 will be accepted in the following ratings: ITS (see note 1), LSS, CSS and YNS (see note 2). c. Sailors interested in serving as an independent duty corpsman (IDC) on submarines should contact the applicable force IDCs listed below for additional information regarding volunteering for this program. Note 1: E-7 and E-8 ITS conversions must have one or more of the following Navy enlisted classifications (NEC): 742A, H08A, 746A or equivalent. Note 2: E-7 and E-8 personnel specialists (PS) are encouraged to apply. Each application will be assessed to ensure the chief petty officer has the experience and expertise to manage and oversee all administrative and personnel actions to support the crew in the role of leading YNS aboard a submarine. 4. All Sailors, regardless of rating or rank, must meet the following minimum criteria to be eligible for conversion: a. Be a U.S. citizen already in possession of, or capable of receiving, a secret security clearance. b. Meet armed services vocational aptitude battery (ASVAB) requirements for the desired rating(s) as outlined in reference (a). c. Have no non-judicial punishments or convictions in civilian or military courts within the past 24 months. d. Be medically screened and suitable for duty onboard a submarine in line with reference (b), chapter 15. Further information regarding this requirement is provided in subparagraph 5.a.(7). 5. Applications a. The following is required for applications in line with reference (c): (1) Enlisted personnel action request (NAVPERS 1306/7) signed by the Sailor and endorsed by the commanding officer (CO) that clearly states the following: (a) Recommended earliest and latest release dates from the current command. (b) The submarine career field choices of the Sailor in order of preference. (c) Homeport preference for either Kings Bay, GA or Bangor, WA. (2) Last three performance evaluations. Sailors with minimal service and less than three evaluations are still eligible and should submit all evaluations on record. (3) Physical readiness information maintenance system data covering the last four years of physical fitness assessment information, as available. (4) ASVAB scores (E-6 and below only). (5) Official statement volunteering for submarine service as outlined in reference (d). (6) CO recommendation letter (optional). (7) A completed submarine duty physical is not required for processing of applications. However, candidates must have a current submarine duty physical approved by an undersea medical officer (UMO) within 30 days of application submission. Due to the nature of submarine service, medical fitness for duty standards are stringent. Therefore, interested candidates are encouraged to start this process as soon as possible following their decision to apply. The Medical History Form (DD Form 2807-1) and Physical Examination Form (DD Form 2808) may be completed by any Department of Defense privileged provider. However, a UMO is required to review and approve the overall submarine duty physical on DD Form 2808. UMOs are located at all submarine homeport medical departments. Contact numbers and locations of submarine homeport medical departments and UMOs: (a) Submarine Readiness Squadron 32 (Groton, CT): (860) 694-2470/2795. (b) Submarine Readiness Squadron 34 (Norfolk, VA): (757) 967-6175. (c) Naval Branch Health Clinic Kings Bay (Kings Bay, GA): (912) 573-4230. (d) Submarine Readiness Squadron 31 (Bangor, WA): (360) 396-6789. (e) Submarine Squadron 11 (San Diego, CA): (619) 553- 8719. (f) Submarine Readiness Squadron 33 (Pearl Harbor, HI): (808) 473-2899/1080. (g) Submarine Squadron 15 (Guam): (671) 343-2191. (h) Submarine Group 7 (Yokosuka, Japan): DSN (315) 243- 7101. (i) For applicants not in proximity to a submarine homeport listed above, contact the Force IDC, Submarine Forces, U.S. Atlantic Fleet (COMSUBLANT): (757) 836-1351/1354 or Force IDC, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC): (808) 473- 1479/5788 b. Sailors are encouraged to contact Submarine (Non-Nuclear) Branch (BUPERS-322) (see paragraph 9) to discuss ways to improve chances of selection and update their application. c. Professional Apprentice Career Track (PACT) Sailors and junior rated Sailors are encouraged to apply, even with limited time in service, no warfare qualification or at-sea experience. In line with reference (e), PACT Sailors selected for submarine service will be eligible for advancement to E- 4 upon successful completion of the training track for the selected rating and attainment of the required obligated service. 6. Applications must be scanned and delivered to BUPERS-322. If the social security number of the Service Member is included in the application, an encrypted email is required for submission. An example package is available via MyNavy HR at: https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Career-Management/Community- Management/Enlisted/Submarine/Enlisted-Women-Submarines/. 7. Prior to detailing selectees, PERS-403 will coordinate with commands to minimize the impact on the mission of the specific command as the Sailor transitions to submarine service. 8. If a selectee is required to conduct a conversion from the reserve component to active component before eligible for orders, the selectee is required to coordinate directly with BUPERS-322 to allocate a career waypoints reenlistment application quota for conversion. Failing to do so will result in a delay in receiving orders and follow-on assignment. 9. For questions about the application process or about submarine service, contact BUPERS-322 Submarine Enlisted Community Manager: a. CDR Steve Halle, (901) 874-2082/DSN 882, steven.a.halle.mil(at)us.navy.mil. b. LT Rafael M. Byron, (901) 874-2081/DSN 882, rafael.m.byron.mil(at)us.navy.mil. c. STSCS(SS) Ernest W. Scott, (901) 874-4367/DSN 882, ernest.w.scott8.mil(at)us.navy.mil. d. ITSCS(SS) Jimmy R. Long, (901) 874-2819/DSN 882, jimmy.r.long.mil(at)us.navy.mil. 10. Nuclear-trained women are selected from the Nuclear Power Training Units (NPTU), and thus applications for nuclear-trained Sailors are no longer required. Nuclear-trained women volunteering for submarine service will be detailed by PERS-403 in accordance with current policies and procedures. Female junior staff instructors or Sailors in initial training at NPTU interested in volunteering for submarine duty should inform their chain of command as soon as possible in order to adequately manage their career timing. Surface nuclear-trained female Sailors, desiring to serve on submarines, may convert their N2XO or N2XS NEC to a N1XO or N1XS NEC by following reference (f), paragraph 4.a.2(b). Submarine duty physicals must be completed prior to nuclear NEC conversion. Nuclear-trained Sailors may contact the Nuclear ECM Team with any questions at the following: a. CDR James Kepper at (703) 604-5493/DSN 664 or via e-mail at james.h.kepper2.mil(at)us.navy.mil. b. ETNCM Jeffrey Neese at (703) 604-5492/DSN 664 or via e- mail at jeffrey.m.neese.mil(at)us.navy.mil. 11. This message supersedes reference (g) and will remain in effect until superseded or canceled, whichever occurs first. 12. Released by Vice Admiral John B. Nowell, Jr, N1.// BT #0001 NNNN UNCLASSIFIED//

Bibliography for Advancement in Rate

WASHINGTON (Tribune News Service) — A senior Senate Republican’s call for a suspension of mandatory coronavirus vaccines for U.S. troops and Pentagon civilians could fuel partisan divisions over the pandemic and add a defense element to the debate. James M. Inhofe of Oklahoma, the top Republican on the Armed Services Committee, in a letter Monday to Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III called the Pentagon’s vaccine mandates “haphazardly implemented and politically motivated.”

PENSACOLA, Fla. - Occupational and Readiness Standards (OaRS) for active-duty and Selected Reserve (SELRES) E-3 enlisted personnel are now provided as a component within the E-1/E-2/E-3 rating Learning and Development Roadmaps (LaDRs). Naval Education and Training Command Updated annually, LaDRs are documents that outline training and education milestones for each rating at each pay grade. Sailors and leaders can use LaDRs to optimize a Sailor’s naval career path and learn about advanced educational opportunities and professional certifications. OaRS in the E-1 through E-3 LaDRs may be used to validate minimum competencies for performing various rating-specific tasks in paygrade E-4. While OaRS is voluntary and does not replace the Navy Wide Advancement Exam, E-3 enlisted personnel are highly encouraged to begin working toward completion of their OaRS shortly after reporting to their initial permanent duty station, or immediately if not new to the command. Command leadership may use OaRS as an additional measure to train and mentor Sailors based on demonstrated knowledge, skills and abilities as related to expected minimum occupational requirements within a rating at the apprentice level. “We recommend that commands establish a local program to guide Sailors in completing their OaRS,” said Naval Education and Training Command’s Force Master Chief Matthew Harris. “OaRs is another example of how the MyNavy HR team is improving and providing career Force Development tools for our Sailors. It’s a great way for our junior Sailors to prepare for advancement and show that they’re ready to perform as an E-4.” OaRS is also not intended to replace Personnel Qualification Standards or other professional qualification programs, but if a Sailor has already completed any OaRS tasks through these types of programs, then that can be used to sign off items. Access LaDRs through MyNavy Portal (https://my.navy.mil), Navy COOL (https://www.cool.osd.mil/usn), and the Navy COOL mobile app (Android and iOS), which improves the speed and transparency of OaRS and LaDR execution. Once an individual Sailor's OaRS are done, the command pay and personnel administrator (CPPA), training officer, or other authorized command representative documents the completion via the Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) within the Personnel Qualifications section, or Advanced Skills Management within the Qual/Cert records tab. This generates an Enlisted Service Record and Electronic Training Jacket entry. These entries provide Sailors with electronic documentation of OaRS completion as well as command leadership and Navy stakeholders with the ability to monitor the execution of OaRS.

WASHINGTON -- Master-at-Arms Senior Chief Michael Haberstumpf, assigned to Joint Special Operations Intelligence Brigade, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, passed away due to COVID-19 related complications at UNC Medical Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Oct. 10. Haberstumpf, 42, tested positive for COVID-19 Sept. 2, and was hospitalized Sept. 9. We will continue to support his family and shipmates during this difficult time. For questions related to this release, please contact the Navy News Desk at (703) 697-5342 or ptgn_chinfonewsdesk@navy.mil

Oct Education Bulletin for Enlisted Sailors

UNCLASSIFIED// ROUTINE R 181942Z OCT 21 MID600051053154U FM CNO WASHINGTON DC TO NAVADMIN INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS NAVADMIN 230/21 PASS TO OFFICE CODES: FM CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1// INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1// MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N1/OCT// SUBJ/CHANGES TO THE LIMITED DUTY PERSONNEL TRANSACTIONS PROCESS// REF/A/DOC/BUPERS/05SEP21// REF/B/DOC/OPNAV/25SEP18// NARR/REF A IS MILPERSMAN ARTICLE 1300-1400, LIMITED DUTY. REF B IS OPNAVINST 1300.20, DEPLOYABILITY ASSESSMENT AND ASSIGNMENT PROGRAM.// RMKS/1. This NAVADMIN announces the release of reference (a) which provides guidance for the assignment, accountability, follow-up care and disposition of Active Component Service Members placed in, or removed from, a limited duty (LIMDU) status. 2. The Deputy Chief of Naval Personnel (DCNP) is the single process owner of the LIMDU Administration Program. The Assistant Commander, Navy Personnel Command (for Career Management (PERS-4)) is the program manager. 3. The Deployability Assessment and Assignment Branch (PERS-454) will assume the duties and responsibilities of the Personnel Support Detachment/Transaction Service Center regarding LIMDU accounting category code (ACC 100 to 105) changes, projected rotation date changes, and return to duty availability (ACC 105 to 100). The creation of this centralized office will provide subject matter expertise to manage, assist and respond to administrative questions related to LIMDU in order to mitigate gaps at sea. 4. In line with reference (b), commands shall designate a command deployability coordinator to function as the liaison for the deployability program. A copy of the signed designation letter shall be provided within five working days from designation via email to the servicing military treatment facility (MTF) deployability coordinator and PERS-454 at: mill_DAOPers-454(at)navy.mil. 5. Commands with 50 or more LIMDU personnel are encouraged to appoint a command deployability coordinator as a primary duty and assign collateral deployability coordinators on a 1:50 ratio to assist in the management of LIMDU personnel. It is also recommended commands establish a deployability coordinator functional email address to facilitate communication with MTF deployability coordinator and PERS-454. 6. For assistance or further information, contact the LIMDU Administration Help Desk at (901) 874-3867 or via e-mail at: limdu_admin.fct(at)navy.mil. 7. Released by Vice Admiral John B. Nowell, Jr, N1.// BT #0001 NNNN UNCLASSIFIED//

Good question. I hope we have an admin or Chief that knows!

The U.S. Navy has agreed to review more than nine years’ worth of “bad paper” discharges given to thousands of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder or certain other trauma-related health conditions. That announcement follows preliminary court approval Tuesday of a settlement of a 2018 lawsuit alleging that a Navy board had improperly denied a Marine Corps veteran’s request for a better discharge status.

Newsletter for Navy Sailors

WASHINGTON - With COVID-19 vaccines now mandatory for all military members, the Navy has announced plans to start processing for discharge those who refuse vaccination without a pending or approved exemption. The Navy’s mandate began at the end of August after the release of the Secretary of Defense memo instructing military departments to enact the new vaccination requirement for DoD uniformed personnel who are not medically or administratively exempt. With the release of ALNAV 062/21 and NAVADMIN 190/21, all service members were given 90 days to comply. Now, NAVADMIN 225/21, released Oct. 13, sets a deadline for all active-duty Sailors to be fully vaccinated by Nov. 28, while those in the selected reserve have until Dec. 28. The message also outlines the consequences for failing to comply. This deadline makes Nov. 14 and Dec. 14 the final days active and selected reserve, respectively, can receive the second of the two required shots for a two-dose vaccine or the single dose of a one-dose vaccine, and complete the 14-day waiting period required to achieve full vaccination. Sailors must be prepared to execute their mission at all times, in places throughout the world, including where vaccination rates are low and disease transmission is high. Immunizations are of paramount importance to protecting the health of the force and the warfighting readiness of the Fleet. “To date, over 98 percent of active-duty U.S. Navy service members have met our readiness responsibility by completing or initiating a COVID-19 vaccination series, ensuring the continued readiness of our worldwide deployable Navy” said Adm. William Lescher, Vice Chief of Naval Operations, in the message. The Navy’s policy goal is to achieve a fully vaccinated force against the persistent and lethal threat of COVID-19. “Tragically, there have been 164 deaths within the Navy family due to COVID-19, far exceeding the combined total of all other health or mishap related injuries and deaths over the same time period,” wrote Vice Adm. John B. Nowell, Jr., the Chief of Naval Personnel. Of those, he noted, 144 were not immunized. The vaccination status of the remaining 20 remains undetermined. To oversee the administrative discharge process for those refusing the vaccine, the Navy established the COVID Consolidated Disposition Authority (CCDA). This, Lescher wrote, will “ensure a fair and consistent process” for separation determinations. The Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP) is the CCDA for the administrative separation processing of Navy service members, with the Chief of Navy Reserve (CNR) providing support to the CCDA for cases involving Navy service members in the Selected Reserve. The Vice Chief of Naval Operations retains authority for non-judicial punishment and courts-martial. Administrative actions may begin as soon as a Navy service member meets the definition of “refusing the vaccine”, which is a Navy service member who received a lawful order to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, is not or will not be fully vaccinated on the date required by the order, and does not have a pending or approved exemption request. Effective immediately upon the release of the message, commands shall not allow Sailors refusing the vaccine to promote or advance, reenlist, or execute orders, with the exception of separation orders, until the CCDA has completed disposition of their case. Transfer orders may be cancelled by Navy Personnel Command. For officers and enlisted serving in Navy leadership roles refusing the vaccine, they will be notified immediately in writing that they have five days to either begin a vaccination series or request an exemption before being relieved and have detachment for cause initiated. Senior leaders are members of command triads and those key staff positions, including any flag officer or flag officer select, regardless of their current billet. A complete list of these positions is found in the message. With COVID-19 vaccination now mandatory, commanders, commanding officers, or officers in charge, with the concurrence of the first flag officer in the chain of command, are authorized to temporarily reassign Navy service members who refuse the COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of exemption status, based on operational readiness or mission requirements. Commanding officers must identify those refusing the vaccine and verify that the Sailors have an initial counseling NAVPERS 1070/13, or “Page 13”. Within thirty days of a Navy service member refusing the vaccine, reporting seniors must submit a special evaluation or fitness report. In addition to documenting failure to comply with individual medical readiness responsibilities, the report shall document other facts as appropriate, including any misconduct related to UCMJ Art. 92. Commands are required to report Sailors refusing the vaccine to Commander, Navy Personnel Command. Rules differ depending on whether the member is an E-6 and above or officer, or an E-5 and below. Information on reporting procedures for each, along with points of contact, are available in the NAVADMIN. For Navy service members refusing the vaccine, the CCDA also retains the authority for administrative processes regarding removal of warfare qualifications, additional qualification designations (AQD), Navy Enlisted Classifications (NEC), or sub-specialties, except in cases where removal authority is otherwise authorized by law or Executive Order. The CCDA may also seek recoupment of applicable bonuses, special and incentive pays, and the cost of training and education for service members refusing the vaccine. Those separated only for vaccine refusal will receive no lower than a general discharge under honorable conditions. This type of discharge could result in the loss of some veterans’ benefits. Navy service members who started terminal leave on or before the applicable deadlines are administratively exempted from vaccine requirements. Sailors seeking an exemption to the vaccine mandate can apply for medical reasons or a religious accommodation. Details on how to apply for each are available in NAVADMIN 190/21. Complete information on the administrative ramifications of vaccine refusal can be found in NAVADMIN 225/21. Information on the Navy’s COVID-19 policy is in ALNAV 062/21 and NAVADMIN 190/21

WASHINGTON - Master Chief Petty Officer (SW/AW/EXW) Tracy L. Hunt relieved Master Chief Petty Officer (FMF/SW) Chris Kotz as Navy Reserve Force Master Chief during a ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard, Oct. 12. Hunt is the 17th Navy Reserve Force Master Chief following his previous assignment as Command Master Chief for Commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command in Norfolk, Va. With more than 30 years of service, including more than a decade since completing the Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat course in 2009, Hunt was carefully selected to assume his new role. “Force Hunt was selected from the most exclusive, competitive and talented field of Navy Reserve Master Chiefs our nation has ever known. His deep warfighting, leadership and Reserve experiences make him an important partner and strong champion for our Reserve Force,” said Vice Adm. John B. Mustin, Chief of Navy Reserve, and Commander, Navy Reserve Force. A native of Meherrin, Virginia, Hunt enlisted in the Navy in September, 1989. Following completion of basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois, he completed seaman apprentice training in December, 1989. Hunt’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment in the history of the Navy Reserve. “For the entire force, I ask you to embrace change,” said Hunt. “The Reserve force is transforming, and we must position ourselves to answer when we are called to fight.” Kotz, who held the position since Oct. 2017, turned over the duties to Hunt immediately preceding his official retirement ceremony, finishing 30 years of dedicated and honorable service. “As we aggressively modernize our Reserve Force to address today’s global environment, building new capabilities and shifting capacity to meet the needs of long-term strategic competition, Force Master Chief Kotz has been front and center. His impact on the Navy, and our nation’s defense, will be felt for year and decades to come,” Mustin said. Hunt emphasized his ongoing commitment to supporting the evolving mission of the Navy Reserve and encouraged all Reserve Sailors to do the same. “Embrace this change, embrace the Navy Reserve Fighting Instructions, and focus on our number one priority — warfighting readiness,” Hunt said.

The Department of the Navy (“Navy”) has agreed to review the discharges of thousands of Veterans affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), military sexual trauma (MST), and other behavioral or mental health conditions. The Navy has also agreed to change some of its administrative procedures for individuals who apply in the future to have their discharge statuses upgraded. This agreement follows a settlement reached in the nationwide class action lawsuit Manker v. Del Toro, 3:18-cv-00372-CSH. A federal court preliminarily approved the agreement on October 12, 2021. Under the agreement, the Navy will automatically reconsider certain discharge-status-upgrade decisions made by the Naval Discharge Review Board (NDRB) between March 2, 2012, and the effective date of settlement, which partially or fully denied upgrade relief to Navy and Marine Corps Veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan era with General or Other-than- -Honorable (OTH) discharges. The settlement also expands reapplication rights for eligible applicants who were discharged and received an adverse NDRB decision between Oct. 7, 2001 and March 2, 2012. In addition, the Navy has agreed to implement certain procedures. These include a program to enable applicants to appear before the NDRB by video teleconference, more training for board members, and updated protocols for decision making in cases involving symptoms or diagnoses of PTSD, TBI, MST or other behavioral or mental health conditions. Veterans of the Navy and the Marine Corps, including the Reserve, who were discharged with a General or Other-than-Honorable service characterization while having a diagnosis of, or showing symptoms of, the conditions listed above may be eligible to benefit from the settlement. Discharge upgrades are not guaranteed, and applications will be decided on a case-by-case basis. A video teleconference hearing on the settlement agreement on December 16, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. will address whether to grant final approval of the settlement, whether to issue a final order dismissing the lawsuit, and related issues. Persons affected by the settlement may submit written comments and/or appear themselves or through counsel to be heard in support of, or in opposition to, aspects of the settlement. Persons wishing to object must follow specific procedures, which are outlined on the websites listed below. A court-approved class notice, the full text of the settlement, and information about the court’s hearing can be found at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/mra/CORB/ Pages/NDRB/default.aspx. and www.mankersettlement.com

UNCLASSIFIED// ROUTINE R 131542Z OCT 21 MID600051033451U FM CNO WASHINGTON DC TO NAVADMIN INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS NAVADMIN 226/21 PASS TO OFFICE CODES: FM CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1// INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC//N1// MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N1/OCT// SUBJ/ADVANCEMENT EXAMINATION READINESS REVIEW 1ST AND 2ND QUARTER FY-22 SCHEDULE AND IDENTIFICATION OF FLEET SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS// REF/A/MSG/CNO WASHINGTON DC/151617ZSEP17// REF/B/DOC/COMNAVPERSCOM/5NOV18// NARR/REF A IS NAVADMIN 229/17, REALIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION OF FLEET SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS FOR ADVANCEMENT EXAMINATION READINESS REVIEWS. REF B IS MILPERSMAN ARTICLE 1401-020, ADVANCEMENT EXAM READINESS REVIEW (AERR).// RMKS/1. This NAVADMIN announces the Advancement Examination Readiness Review (AERR) schedule from October 2021 to March 2022. AERR events provide an opportunity for selected rating subject matter experts from fleet and shore- based commands to impact their respective ratings by updating and validating the examination question bank. Selected chief, senior chief and master chief petty officers on active duty, full-time support and reservists currently on active duty for operational support may take part in the process. AERRs enable the Navy to advance the most qualified and rating-knowledgeable Sailors. 2. AERRs are held at Naval Education and Training Professional Development Center (NETPDC) Pensacola, FL. Temporary Duty Travel (TDY) in support of AERR events is considered mission critical and is flag officer approved. All costs pertaining to TDY are funded by NETPDC. All travel will be in line with Department of the Navy regulations at the time of the scheduled AERR. 3. In line with reference (a), and normally no less than 45 days prior to the AERR convening date, Type Commanders (TYCOM)/rating sponsors will recruit rating fleet subject matter experts (FSMEs), select AERR attendees plus two alternate members, and work with NETPDC staff to provide the requested number of FSME names and contact information via e-mail to NETPDC_AERR_MAILBOX(at)navy.mil with the subject line of *AERR Selectees*. In cases where this NAVADMIN is within 45 days of the AERR convening date, coordination with TYCOM/rating sponsors is already in progress to ensure appropriate participation is confirmed as soon as possible. 4. The following AERRs are scheduled from October 2021 through March 2022 and are subject to change. AERR schedule is in the following format: Convene Date: Rating (number of FSMEs required) 17 - 23 October AE (6) 17 - 30 October AWO (6), FCA (6) 24 October - 6 November MN (6) 31 October - 6 November EOD (6) 7 - 20 November ITS(EW) (6) 14 - 20 November SB (6) 23 - 29 January ATO (6), SO (6) 23 January - 5 February AG (7), EMN (6), FC (6), MR (6) MU (8), PMK (6) 30 January - 5 February AWR (6) 30 January - 12 February ABH (6) 6 - 19 February BM (6), BU (6), HT (6), IC(6), STS (6) 27 February - 5 March LS (6) 27 February - 12 March AWS (6), CTT (6), EN (6), STG (6) 6 - 12 March EM (6) 6 - 19 March MMA (6), SW (6) 13 - 26 March ITS(RM) (6), MT (6) 20 - 26 March AE (3) 20 March - 2 April CE (6), CTR (6), EOD (6), MM (6) 27 March - 2 April AZ (6), IS (6) 27 March - 9 April CS (6) 5. In line with reference (b), nomination waivers with accompanying justification must be approved by NETPDC prior to TYCOM and rating sponsor selections. Due to financial considerations, outside continental United States applications will not be approved at this time. 6. To view the most up-to-date AERR schedule, locate a specific rating point of contact and download the AERR nomination package, log into MyNavy Portal https://www.mnp.navy.mil/ under Professional Resources/Navy Advancement Center/AERR. 7. Point of contact for this matter is the NETPDC Fleet Liaison, (850) 473-6169/DSN 753 or NETPDC_AERR_MAILBOX(at)navy.mil. 8. Released by Vice Admiral John B. Nowell, Jr, N1.// BT #0001 NNNN UNCLASSIFIED//

Oct Family Connection Newsletter

The move to Hampton Roads didn’t go that easily for the Bernabe family, and it got worse when their twin son and daughter started kindergarten, virtually, in September 2020. “Within 20 minutes of his first virtual session, there was a loud noise. That was because of another student’s speaker system not being quite calibrated right, and it was very high pitch, and he covered his ears and he hit the floor,” Tosha Bernabe recalled. “He just completely melted down, he freaked out screaming, yelling kicking. It was the first time that he ever got violent with me he began hitting me trying to rip my hair out.”

We have the thread for FY 23 board going already if you want to check it out. -> https://forum.navyadvancement.com/topic/6652-fy-23-cpo-e7-selection-board/

Hundreds of thousands of U.S. service members remain unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated against the coronavirus as the Pentagon's first compliance deadlines near, with lopsided rates across the individual services and a spike in deaths among military reservists illustrating how political division over the shots has seeped into a nonpartisan force with unambiguous orders. Overall, the military's vaccination rate has climbed since August, when Defense Department leaders, acting on a directive from President Joe Biden, informed the nation's 2.1 million troops that immunization would become mandatory, exemptions would be rare and those who refuse would be punished. Yet troops' response has been scattershot, according to data assessed by The Washington Post.

PENSACOLA, Fla. - The Navy League and Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) announced the requirements on Oct. 8, 2021 for applications for the Alaska Sea Services Scholarships for academic year 2022-2023. The program awards up to four $1,000 scholarships annually for undergraduate education to dependent children and spouses of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard personnel who legally claim Alaska as their state of residence. The scholarships are possible through funds raised by Alaskan citizens for a war bond as a gift to USS Juneau (CL 52) during World War II. After the sinking of Juneau, the governor of the territory of Alaska and the secretary of the Navy agreed to keep the bond monies on deposit until an appropriate application was found. In 1986, the Navy established the Alaska Sea Services fund. “Alaskan citizens originally raised these funds for the Atlanta-class light cruiser USS Juneau,” said Ryan Donaldson, Navy League executive vice president for business operations. “Juneau was integral to the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands but was later sunk at the Battle of Guadalcanal prior to the gift being presented to her crew. Honoring the loss of Juneau’s crew could not be better achieved than through supporting the education of students within her sponsoring state.” Applicants must be the child or spouse of a legal resident of the state of Alaska who is, or was at the time of death or designation as missing-in-action, a Regular or Reserve U.S. Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard member on active duty, inactive duty or retired with or without pay. The Navy League will screen all applications and submit their recommendations to NETC for final consideration and awarding. Selection criteria includes academic proficiency, character, leadership ability, community involvement and financial need. “It is an honor to be a part of the Alaska Sea Services Scholarship,” said Al Sharlow, NETC’s advanced education program coordinator. “We look forward to any opportunity to provide educational opportunities to develop the future of our great nation.” Students must provide proof of acceptance at an accredited college or university for full-time undergraduate study toward a bachelor’s degree. An individual cannot receive more than two scholarship awards during the pursuit of a four-year degree. The Navy League is accepting scholarship applications from Oct. 11, 2021 to March 11, 2022. For additional information and a link to apply for the Alaska Sea Services Scholarship, visit https://www.navyleague.org/programs/scholarships or email scholarships@navyleaque.org

UNCLASSIFIED// ROUTINE R 081819Z OCT 21 MID600051024044U FM CNO WASHINGTON DC TO NAVADMIN INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS NAVADMIN 222/21 PASS TO OFFICE CODES: FM CNO WASHINGTON DC//N7// INFO CNO WASHINGTON DC//N7// MSGID/GENADMIN/CNO WASHINGTON DC/N71/OCT// SUBJ/ANNOUNCEMENT OF PHASE II OF THE US NAVAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE PILOT PROGRAM// REF/A/MSG/SECNAV/171700ZJAN20// NARR/REF A IS ALNAV 009/20, SECNAV VECTOR 7.// POC/US NAVAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE/UNIT: ADMISSIONS/TEL: (703) 784-4018// POC/A.GARRETT/CIV/UNIT: /TEL: (703) 784-4018// RMKS/1. Reference (a) directed the formation of the first cohort of Navy and Marine Corps students for enrollment in the United States Naval Community College (USNCC) Pilot program. This NAVADMIN announces phase two of the US Naval Community College (USNCC) pilot program (Pilot 2). The USNCC offers enlisted Sailors and Marines the opportunity to participate in world-class, naval relevant education programs. No tuition fees, mandatory course fees, or other course material costs are incurred by either participating students or parent commands. The FY-22 degree program application window opened on 1 Oct 2021 and will close on 31 Oct 2021. Future application windows will be published on the USNCC website (https://www.usncc.edu/) and on USNCC social media sites. 2. Background: a. Starting in FY22, Pilot 2 offers seven professional concentration areas and the USNCC Naval Studies Certificate. USNCC will continue to evaluate academic programs, learning delivery systems, and student performance while providing students the opportunity to complete online college courses and earn college degrees. The seven professional concentration areas are: (1) Military Studies (2) Cyber Security and Network Administration (3) Nuclear Engineering Technology (4) Data Analytics (5) Organizational Leadership (6) Maritime Logistics (7) Aviation Maintenance Technology b. The USNCC Naval Studies Certificate includes the following five USNCC delivered courses that are incorporated into all USNCC degree programs: (1) Leadership and Ethics (2) Modern Naval History (3) Naval Force Design and Concepts (4) Military-Civil Organization (5) Introduction to the Geopolitical Environment c. Classes will be taught online in an 8 to 15 week course format, depending on the participating colleges schedules and the complexity of the course material. 3. Criteria: a. The USNCC will accept program applications from all enlisted Sailors and Marines subject to the following eligibility preferences: (1) Applicants must be active duty enlisted members of the sea services (Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard) in the paygrades of E-1 through E9. First-term service members will be prioritized. All applicants must be available to participate in the college courses online. (2) Applicants must not have previously earned an associate or higher academic degree except as noted in paragraph (3). (3) Students that have previously earned a college degree may apply for the USNCC Naval Studies Certificate. b. Applications of qualified individuals require Commanding Officers (or designated command representative) endorsement. 4. Application Process: More information is available and applications must be submitted via the USNCC website at (https://www.usncc.edu/). The initial application submission period will remain open until 31 October 2021. 5. Selection Notifications: The USNCC will contact accepted applicants regarding their selection status via email in November 2021, with courses to begin in January 2022. 6. The USNCC primary point of contact is Mr. Alphonso Garrett, USNCC Director of Enrollment, at admissions@usncc.usmcu.edu. 7. Request widest dissemination of the above information. Regional and installation Education Specialists are requested to pass this information to all interested personnel at home stations. 8. This message will remain in effect until 30 Sep 2023 or until superseded. 9. Released by VADM J. W. Hughes, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Warfighting Development, N7, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations// BT #0001 NNNN UNCLASSIFIED//

Membership list is out and is posted with the quotas, results and other good stuff...