FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (Jan. 1, 2018) – The following Fort Leonard Wood announcements are for the week of Jan. 1 through 6.
Jan. 1
Blended Retirement System Opt-In
One of the most wide-reaching and significant changes to military pay and benefits over the last 70 years goes into effect Jan. 1, 2018, with the implementation of the Uniformed Services Blended Retirement System, or BRS. The new system blends aspects of the traditional defined benefit retirement pension system, with a defined contribution system of automatic and matching government contributions through the Thrift Savings Plan. The open opt-in period for the majority of service members is from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2018. Read the full article online at https://www.army.mil/article/198447/blended_military_retirement_system_to_take_effect_jan_1.
Jan. 1
TRICARE benefit changes take place in 2018
General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital announces certain TRICARE plans and benefits are changing effective Jan. 1, 2018. Although these changes will take effect Jan. 1, beneficiaries will be able to make changes throughout 2018. These changes are separate from the annual TRICARE open enrollment period that begins on the Monday of the second full week in November and runs through the Monday of the second full week in December. TRICARE for Life, U.S. Family Health Plan, TRICARE Dental Program and TRICARE retiree Dental Program will not be affected by the changes. TRICARE beneficiaries are encouraged to visit www.tricare.mil/changes. For more information contact the local Beneficiary Counseling Assistance coordinator at 573.596.0418.
Jan. 6
Army announces All American Bowl
The year-long U.S. Army All American Bowl program recognizes the nation’s high school all-star football players and band members, and culminates with the annual bowl selection and game. The All American Bowl will take place at noon, Jan 6, 2018, at the San Antonio Alamodome featuring the best 100 players in a classic East vs. West match-up. The game is scheduled to be broadcast live on NBC and across the world to Soldiers deployed overseas. For more information, visit http://www.usarmyallamericanbowl.com/about-aab/.
Jan. 6
New Year, New You
Davidson Fitness Center (DFC)
Create a new year with a new you from 9 to 11 a.m. Jan. 6 at the Davidson Fitness Center. During the event, participants will meet the Davidson Fitness Center group fitness team, sample classes, and plan their health and wellness goals for the future. Personal trainers will be available for questions or to schedule consultations. This event is open to the public ages 13 and up. Cost is $5 per person. For more information, call 573.596.4359 or visit https://leonardwood.armymwr.com/.
Jan. 11
Post announces welcome home ceremony
An official Welcome Home ceremony for the 94th Engineer Detachment is slated to take place at 9 a.m. Jan. 11 in the Engineer Regimental Room of the John B. Mahaffey Museum. The unit, which returned Dec. 19, 2017, will be recognized for successfully completing their overseas deployment. We look forward to officially being able to welcome these Soldiers and K9s home. The time and date of this ceremony is subject to change, and updates will be provided.
Jan. 19
MWR to offer lifeguarding class
The Directorate of Family & Morale, Welfare and Recreation plans to host lifeguarding certification class beginning Jan. 19. The certification starts with a pretest from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Jan. 19 at the Davidson Fitness Center pool. Class candidates must pass this test to continue with the classes that will be held on January 20, 21, 27 & 28. There is a minimum of 4 students and maximum of 10. Participants must attend all classes for certification. This class is open to the public, ages 15 1/2 and up. For cost and other information, call 573.596.4359 or visit https://leonardwood.armymwr.com/.
Winter Safety public service announcement
With winter weather, comes changes to road and driving conditions and the U.S. Army Safety Center reminds motorists to plan road trips accordingly by preparing vehicles for winter, making sure vehicles are current on checkups and tune-ups and remembering to carry necessary equipment and essential survival supplies. If you become stranded:
• Do not leave your vehicle unless you know exactly where you are, how far it is to possible help and are certain you will improve your situation.
• To attract attention, light two flares and place one at each end of the vehicle a safe distance away. Hang a brightly colored cloth from your antenna, if possible.
• If you are sure the vehicle’s exhaust pipe is not blocked, run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour or so depending upon the amount of gas in the tank.
• To protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia, use the woolen items and blankets to keep warm. • Keep at least one window open slightly. Heavy snow and ice can seal a vehicle shut.
• Eat hard candy to keep your mouth moist.
Read the full “Winter Road Hazards” article online at: https://safety.army.mil/MEDIA/Knowledge/TabId/97/ArtMID/478/ArticleID/729/Winter-Road-Hazards.aspx.
U.S. Army Center of Military History releases new Cold War era book
The U.S. Army Center of Military History has released a new Cold War era book: “The City Becomes a Symbol: The U.S. Army in the Occupation of Berlin, 1945-1949.” The latest addition in the U.S. Army Cold War series, this new book by William Stivers and Donald A. Carter begins in July 1945 during the opening days of the occupation of Berlin by the Allied powers. The 329-page book is available for purchase by the general public from the U.S. Government Publishing Office. Those interested may also download the book for free. For more information, visit https://history.army.mil/.
Coming Soon: Your New U.S. Army National Museum
In 2019, the U.S. Army is slated to have a National Museum honoring the legacy and service of the American Soldier. The National Museum of the U.S. Army is slated for completion in late 2019 at Fort Belvoir, Va. Learn more and view a virtual tour of the planned museum at: http://thenmusa.org/.
For more information, contact the Fort Leonard Wood Public Affairs Office at 573.563.4145.
