APPENDIX B

ARMY PROGRAMS

Soldiers sometimes need help beyond what the chain-of-command or NCO support channel can provide directly. In those cases, soldiers may not be able to fully concentrate on their duties if they or their families are working through financial, substance abuse, or other problems. The Army has therefore built agencies and programs to assist soldiers and their families. Some are recreational in nature, others are assistance programs, and still others are important tools for maintaining discipline, morale, or soldier well-being. The Army also has an extensive education program that includes tuition assistance for attending college level courses. All this shows that the Army takes care of its own. In this appendix you'll find a description of many of these programs.

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Morale, Welfare, Recreation (MWR) and Family Programs
Soldier Assistance
    Army Community Service (ACS)
    Equal Opportunity Program in the Army
    Equal Employment Opportunity
    Army Substance Abuse Program
    Army Career and Alumni Program - Transition Assistance
    Army Emergency Relief
    Total Army Sponsorship Program
Family Assistance
    Army Family Action Plan
    Army Family Team Building
    Family Readiness Programs
    Family Advocacy Program
    Family Readiness Groups
    Exceptional Family Member Program
Education
    Army Continuing Education
    Green to Gold Program
    United States Military Academy Preparatory School (USMAPS)
    Funded Legal Education Program (FLEP)
    Army Medical Department (AMEDD) Enlisted Commissioning Program (AECP)
Other Assistance for the Soldier and Family
    Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS)
    American Red Cross
    Casualty Assistance Program

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MORALE, WELFARE, RECREATION (MWR) AND FAMILY PROGRAMS

B-1.   Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) is a name that covers many different programs. Though we usually think of MWR as the bowling alley or unit fund money, this term applies to Army Community Service, youth services, family programs, and outdoor recreation programs. Do you like to fish, work out, travel, play sports, act in plays, or coach? Or do your like relaxing, watching the big game on TV, hanging out with friends and eating hot pizza? Or maybe you're a golfer, bowler, swimmer, racquetball player, skier or snowboarder. Most importantly, you want your family taken care of when you're deployed. You want your children to have fun, yet be safe and supervised. Lastly, you want to be heard if you have issues or concerns about your life in the Army.

B-2.   The US Army Community and Family Support Center, Headquarters, Department of the Army agency, delivers more than 200 Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), and family programs through a worldwide 37,000-member workforce, including those stationed in the Balkans and the Middle East to serve deployed troops. Commanders regard MWR as a readiness multiplier that keeps soldiers physically fit, fosters healthy families, reduces stress, builds skills and self-confidence, and creates esprit de corps. The MWR philosophy is that soldier's and their families are entitled to the same quality of life as the Americans they pledge to defend.

B-3.   Child and youth services (CYS) programs reduce the conflict between mission and parental responsibilities. Basic CYS programs are child development centers, family child care home systems, before and after-school programs, school liaison and school transition services, youth sports and fitness programs and partnerships with Boys & Girls Clubs and 4-H Clubs. Services are provided year-round and include full-day, part day, after school, hourly, special needs, seasonal, supervised programs and care options. Congress and the White House recognize the military childcare system as a "model for the Nation."

B-4.   Individual and team sports for men and women include basketball, soccer, volleyball, rugby, softball, and martial arts. At gymnasiums, certified instructors conduct aerobics for cardiovascular fitness and supervise strength training with weights. Recreation centers offer a variety of social activities, games (table tennis, billiards), classes, and meeting space. Army libraries provide books, magazines, electronic information resources, and professional reference services for academics and recreation reading. Army libraries send book kits to remote and isolated sites as well as to deployed soldiers.

B-5.   Outdoor recreations (OR) opportunities vary by geographic location, climate, and demand. They range from high-challenge activities such as ropes courses, mountain climbing, and rappelling to extreme sports such as snowboarding, para gliding, and windsurfing. Many installations have forests, parks, rivers, and lakes that invite fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, and boating. Need equipment? Rent it from Outdoor Recreation.

B-6.   Arts and crafts centers are outlets for creativity and are money-savers. Trained staff members ensure safe use of tools and equipment. At automotive craft shops, you can change your car's oil or change a motor. The centers offer tools, bays, classes, and assistance available for nominal fees. Outlets for creative expression in the performing arts include music and theater events such as Battle of the Bands, one-act play festivals, the US Army Soldier Show, community theater, entertainment contests and chart topping celebrity performers who stage concert at installations.

B-7.   Sports bars, casual dining restaurants, fast food outlets, and community clubs offer ethnic and traditional foods as well as nightlife on post. Military members enjoy significant discounts at many major amusement parks, resorts, and attractions. For more information, visit www.armymwr.com. The Army operates four Armed Forces recreation centers: Disney World (Orlando, Fla.), Garmisch/Chiemsee (Bavaria, Germany), Waikiki Beach (Hale Koa Hotel, Honolulu, Hawaii), and Dragon Hill Lodge (Seoul, Korea).

B-8.   Expect to pay fees and charges for MWR and family programs; profits are reinvested locally in MWR programs. A percentage of profits from the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) are used to fund MWR programs. When you shop at AAFES and patronize MWR, you help sustain these programs for the future. MWR programs are for all soldiers and families: active duty, reserve components and retirees, married and single, living on post or off. For additional information, visit the MWR website at www.armymwr.com.

SOLDIER ASSISTANCE

ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE (ACS)

B-9.   Army Community Service (ACS) programs offers real-life solutions for soldiers and their families. Your ACS equips people with the skills and education they need to face the challenges of military life today and tomorrow. Think of ACS when deploying or relocating, needing information and referrals, needing financial assistance, employment services, or for crisis and family assistance. The following are some of the ACS programs that may exist at Army installations worldwide:

• Deployment and mobilization support.
• Assistance with family readiness groups.
• Relocation readiness.
• Group training for pre/post moves.
• Cross-cultural training for bicultural families.
• SITES (Standard Installation Topic Exchange Service).
• Guidance counseling before, during, and after the move.
• Outreach to waiting families.
• Lending closet.
• Sponsorship training.
• Financial Readiness.
• Army Emergency Relief.
• Education and financial planning, Consumer Affairs and Financial Assistance Program (CAFAP).
• Confidential budget counseling and debt management assistance.
• Emergency food voucher.
• Consumer information and advocacy.
• Family Advocacy Program.
• Stress and anger management classes.
• Victim advocacy.
• Emergency placement care.
• Family violence prevention briefings.
• Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).
• Installation Volunteer Program.
• Army Family Action Plan.
• Army Family Team Building (AFTB).
• Employment Services.

B-10.   ACS facilitates a commander's ability to provide comprehensive, coordinated, and responsive services that support the readiness of soldiers, civilian employees, and their families. For more information on Army Community Service programs see the ACS homepage at www.armycommunityservice.org.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM IN THE ARMY

B-11.   The Equal Opportunity (EO) program formulates, directs, and sustains a comprehensive effort to maximize human potential and to ensure fair treatment for all persons based solely on merit, fitness, and capability in support of readiness. EO philosophy is based on fairness, justice, and equity. Commanders are responsible for sustaining a positive EO climate within their units. Specifically, the goals of the EO program are to-

• Provide EO for military personnel and family members, both on and off post and within the limits of the laws of localities, states, and host nations.
• Create and sustain effective units by eliminating discriminatory behaviors or practices that undermine teamwork, mutual respect, loyalty, and shared sacrifice of the men and women of the US Army.
• Additionally, in many circumstances, Department of the Army (DA) civilians may use the Equal Employment Opportunity complaint system. AR 690-600, Equal Opportunity Employment Discrimination Complaints, provides further guidance.

B-12.   The Army provides equal opportunity and fair treatment for military personnel, family members, and DA civilians without regard to race, color, sex, religion, or national origin and provide an environment free of unlawful discrimination and offensive behavior. This policy applies both on and off post, during duty and non-duty hours, and applies to working, living, and recreational environments (including both on and off post housing).

B-13.   Soldiers will not be accessed, classified, trained, assigned, promoted, or otherwise managed on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, or national origin. The assignment and utilization of female soldiers is partially governed by federal law. AR 600-13, Army Policy for the Assignment of Female Soldiers, prescribes policies, procedures, responsibilities, and the position coding system for female soldiers.

B-14.   Rating and reviewing officials will evaluate each member's commitment to elimination of unlawful discrimination and/or sexual harassment and document significant deviations from that commitment in evaluation reports. Substantiated formal complaints require a "Does not support EO" on the NCOER or the OER. This documentation includes administering appropriate administrative, disciplinary, or legal action(s) to correct inappropriate behavior.

B-15.   Equal Opportunity references include the following:

• AR 600-20, Army Command Policy, Chapters 4, 5, 6 and Appendix E.
• Department of the Army Affirmative Action Plan (DA Pam 600-26).
• The Army's Consideration of Others Handbook.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

B-16.   The Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Program has similar goals as the EO Program but is designed to assist and protect the civilians supporting the Army and Department of Defense, under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It ensures equal opportunity in all aspects of employment for Army civilian employees and applicants for employment. Employment policies and practices in DA will be free from unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or handicap. The basic principle of equal employment opportunity underlies all aspects of the civilian personnel management program in the Army. The program allows civilian employees who believe they are victims of discrimination to make complaints through several avenues.

B-17.   It is DA policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all soldiers and DA civilians under applicable EEO laws and regulations. These laws and regulations include Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Rehabilitation Act, and AR 690-600. These laws and regulations prohibit discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or reprisal and promote the realization of equal opportunity. The EEO office manages the complaint-processing program and advises the commander on EEO matters.

B-18.   Mediation may be a means to address conflicts, disputes, complaints, grievances, or other problems in the workplace. Mediation is best described as assisted negotiations between two parties with neutral mediators facilitating the process. It is a private process whereby the parties are empowered to resolve their own issues. For additional information read AR 690-12, Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action, and AR 690-600 or visit your installation EEO office.

ARMY SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROGRAM

B-19.   The Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) provides assistance to active duty soldiers, DACs, family members, and retirees. The ASAP goal is to strengthen the overall fitness and effectiveness of Army personnel and enhance the combat readiness of soldiers. Command involvement throughout the identification, referral, screening and elevation process is critical. Details are in AR 600-85, Army Substance Abuse Program.

B-20.   Soldiers who fail to participate as directed by the commander or do not succeed in rehabilitation are subject to administrative separation. Soldiers will reenroll except as determined by the clinical director in consultation with the unit commander. Commanders will, without exception, separate all soldiers who are identified as drug abusers. Commanders must refer for evaluation all soldiers who they suspect of having a problem with drugs or alcohol. This includes knowledge of any convictions for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).

B-21.   The ASAP primary care manager (PCM) will conduct an initial screening evaluation interview with referred soldiers to recommend one or more of the following:

• Referral to Army Drug and Alcohol Prevention Training (ADAPT).
• Referral to ADAPT and enrollment in the out-patient program.
• Referral to the ASAP outpatient program and to the Community Mental Health Clinic.
• Referral to an in-patient or partial program if the commander and clinical director agree to in-patient or partial program placement.
• Counseling by the unit commander.

B-22.   The commander's involvement is critical in the rehabilitation process. The commander must ensure that enrolled soldiers are attending sessions, getting random biochemical testing and breathalyzers, and participating in the program. The objectives of rehabilitation and treatment are to return the soldier to full duty as soon as possible or identify for separation those who cannot be rehabilitated. For more information, see AR 600-85 and the Army Center for Substance Abuse Programs website at asap.army.mil.

ARMY CAREER AND ALUMNI PROGRAM - TRANSITION ASSISTANCE

B-23.   The Army Career and Alumni Program (ACAP) assists military personnel, Department of Defense (DOD) civilians affected by reduction in force (RIF), and their family members with the employment search process by providing the highest quality guidance, training, resources, and support during their career transition from federal service. Family members and veterans of all branches of the armed services can utilize ACAP services. The program aids individuals and their family by identifying transitioning needs and providing assistance in meeting those needs. The ACAP job assistance personnel provide access to a national and local job resource database and career counseling.

B-24.   Soldiers preparing for retirement may begin pre-separation counseling up to 24 months prior to retirement and all other soldiers may begin pre-separation counseling up to 12 months prior to separation. Through ACAP, the Army takes care of its own. Some of the specific services include assistance in resume writing, interview techniques, job search skills, listing of job opportunities with federal, state, and local governments, and civilian agencies. The ACAP on-line is a program that provides transition and job assistance information, job listings, and links to related sites. For additional information, visit and your local installation ACAP center, the ACAP website at www.acap.army.mil, or refer to DA PAM 635-4, Preseparation Guide.

ARMY EMERGENCY RELIEF

B-25.   Army Emergency Relief (AER) is a private nonprofit organization incorporated in 1942 by the Secretary of War and the Army Chief of Staff. Although AER is a private corporation, it is, in effect, the US Army's own emergency financial assistance organization. AER is dedicated to "Helping the Army Take Care of Its Own" and providing emergency financial assistance to the following persons:

• Soldiers on extended active duty and their dependents.
• Reserve component soldiers (ARNG and US Army Reserve) serving under Title 10, US Code, on continuous active duty for more than 30 days and their dependents.
• Soldiers retired from active duty and their dependents.
• Surviving spouses and orphans of eligible soldiers who died while on active duty or after they retired.

B-26.   AER can provide emergency financial assistance for the following: rent, utilities, food, emergency travel, emergency privately owned vehicle (POV) repair, non-receipt of pay, funeral expenses, emergency medical or dental expenses, clothing after fire or other disasters. Unless unusual circumstances exist, AER cannot assist with the following: ordinary leave or vacations, fines or legal expenses, debt payments, home purchases or improvements, purchase, rental or lease of a vehicle, funds to cover bad checks, and marriage or divorce. AER assistance is normally in the form of a loan. AER never charges interest on any loan. Sometimes the assistance is available as a grant or combination loan and grant.

B-27.   The AER provides emergency financial assistance to soldiers and their dependents. However, as a secondary mission it provides monetary assistance for undergraduate education of dependent children of soldiers (active duty, retired or deceased) and spouses of active duty soldiers in certain overseas locations.

B-28.   Active duty soldiers who wish to request AER assistance may obtain the appropriate application form (DA 1103) through their unit and must obtain their commander's recommendation. Unaccompanied family members, surviving spouses or orphans, retirees, and others not assigned to or under control of your installation may obtain the necessary forms at any local AER office. All applicants must provide their military ID card and substantiating documents (i.e., car repair estimate, rental contract, etc.).

B-29.   Soldiers and their dependents can also receive assistance at any Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Air Force Aid Society, or Coast Guard Mutual Assistance office. If they are not near a military installation, soldiers and their dependents can receive assistance through their local chapter of the American Red Cross. For more information visit your local AER office, the AER website at www.aerhq.org, or refer to AR 930-4, Army Emergency Relief.

TOTAL ARMY SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

B-30.   The Total Army Sponsorship Program provides the structure and foundation for units to welcome and help prepare soldiers, civilian employees, and family members for their new duty station in advance of their actual arrival. This program is available to soldiers in the active Army, Army National Guard, Army Reserve, and civilian employees assigned to positions within the Department of the Army. The sponsor is the key to helping the new soldier, civilian employee, and family get comfortably settled as quickly as possible, thereby putting his mind at rest so he can concentrate on his new duties as soon as possible.

B-31.   The unit will appoint a sponsor within 10 calendar days after the organization receives DA Form 5434 or DA Form 5434-E unless the incoming soldier or civilian employee declines. If no sponsor is desired, the unit will send a welcome letter from the battalion or activity commander (for officers); command sergeant major (for enlisted soldiers); or commander or activity director (for civilian employees). The unit will not provide additional sponsorship action until arrival. Upon arrival, the unit will assign a sponsor to the incoming soldier or civilian employee. The assigned sponsor will be of equal or higher grade than the incoming soldier or civilian employee when practical. The sponsor will also be of the same sex, marital status, and military career field or occupational series as the incoming soldier or civilian employee when feasible. The sponsor will be familiar with the unit or activity and community.

B-32.   The sponsor will normally not be the person being replaced by the incoming soldier or civilian employee, or within 60 days of permanent change of station (PCS). For more information on Army sponsorship, see AR 600-8-8, The Total Army Sponsorship Program, your local Army Community Service office, and your unit sponsorship program proponent.

FAMILY ASSISTANCE

ARMY FAMILY ACTION PLAN

B-33.   The Army Family Action Plan (AFAP) is input (concerning family issues) from the people of the Army to Army leadership. The Army's leaders have recognized that to have a quality Army, you must be satisfied with the Army way of life. AFAP is a process that lets soldiers and families say what's working, what isn't, and what they think will fix it. It alerts commanders and Army leaders to areas of concern that need their attention, and also gives them the opportunity to quickly put plans into place to begin resolving the issues. AFAP also-

• Gives commanders a gauge to validate concerns and measure satisfaction.
• Enhances Army's corporate image.
• Helps retain the best and brightest.
• Results in legislation, policies, programs, and services that strengthen readiness and retention.
• Safeguards well-being.

B-34.   Since you are in the Army, you can become an AFAP participant-

• If you are a commander, you can support a strong AFAP program in your community and you can draw on the real-time quality of life information AFAP provides.
• If you are a soldier (active or reserve), retiree, civilian, or family member you can be part of the AFAP program in the following ways:
• Be a delegate and share your good ideas.
• Volunteer to help with a conference, assist with the program, or be a member of the local AFAP Advisory Committee.
• Become familiar with current AFAP issues, tell people what's happening, and get them energized to promote Army well being through the AFAP process.

B-35.   AFAP starts with local AFAP forums, active Army, reserve component soldiers, retirees, surviving spouses, DA civilians, family members, and tenant organizations identifying issues they believe are important to maintain a good standard of living. Commanders resolve local issues at the installation level and update participants quarterly at in process reviews (IPR) which are open to the public. Commanders may forward more difficult issues requiring higher level involvement to higher commands, including Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA) AFAP. Delegates come from throughout the Army to address the top issues and propose solutions. The General Officer Steering Committee (GOSC) reviews the progress of AFAP issues on a semiannual basis and is the final deciding authority.

ARMY FAMILY TEAM BUILDING

B-36.   Army Family Team Building (AFTB) is a volunteer-led organization with a central tenet: provide training and knowledge to spouses and family members to support the total Army effort. Strong families are the pillar of support behind strong soldiers and AFTB's mission is to educate and train all of American's Army in knowledge, skills, and behaviors designed to prepare our Army families to move successfully into the future. AFTB's vision statement says it all: "Empowering families for the 21^st century." The organization is about providing proactive, forward-thinking support for today's families and ensuring the strength of tomorrow's Army. Army Family Team Building has three separate tracks: soldiers (active and reserve), DA civilians, and family members.

FAMILY READINESS PROGRAMS

B-37.   The mission of family readiness programs is to foster total Army family readiness, as mission accomplishment is directly linked to soldiers' confidence when their families are safe and capable of carrying on during their absence. A wide variety of resources are available to assist soldiers and spouses. You can access most of these programs through Army Knowledge Online (AKO) or your unit NCO support channel. Some of these programs are as follows:

• Married Army Couples Program.
• Unit family readiness groups.
• Family care plans.
• Information and referral programs.
• Budget counseling.
• Counseling and counseling referrals.
• Child and spouse abuse treatment and prevention.
• Employment assistance.
• Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP).

FAMILY ADVOCACY PROGRAM

B-38.   The Department of the Army recognizes the importance of families in retention and unit readiness. The Family Advocacy Program (FAP) uses a coordinated community approach to support soldiers and families in an attempt to prevent family violence. The key element of the FAP is prevention through the education of families about the short and long term effects of family violence. Prevention of and intervention in family violence are a community responsibility. Various agencies within the community work together to ensure an effective and comprehensive program. For soldiers and family members involved in family violence, early referral reduces risk, establishes safety limits, and provides treatment for victims and offenders affected or involved in abuse. The FAP provides training and support to units and individuals in the following areas:

• Family violence.
• Intervention and treatment.
• Emotional support and counseling.
• Emergency financial assistance.
• Parenting education.
• Relationship support.
• Child care issues.
• Victim advocacy.
• Transitional compensation.

B-39.   For additional information contact your installation Family Advocacy Program Manager or refer to AR 608-18, The Army Family Advocacy Program.

FAMILY READINESS GROUPS

B-40.   The Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) purpose is to encourage self-reliance among members by providing information, referral assistance, and mutual support. FRGs achieve readiness by providing an atmosphere and an agenda of activities, which builds cohesiveness among unit members. FRGs serves as the conduit between the command and family members. There is no rank in the family readiness groups and that is the key to its success. All soldiers and family members are members of the FRG. Common goals of FRGs include:

• Welcoming service and family members into the unit.
• Developing relationships that enable effective communication.
• Fostering a sense of belonging to the team in all family members.
• Creating forums for family members to develop friendships and support each other.
• Establishing communication networks.
• Providing and participating in formal FRG professional development training.

B-41.   Every unit manages its family readiness group differently, depending on the personality of leaders, the number of families involved, available resources, etc. The core of the family readiness group is the unit. All FRGs throughout the Army share the same purpose: to support Army families.

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM

B-42.   The Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is a mandatory enrollment program for those family members who require special medical or educational services. The program provides comprehensive services consisting of medically related issues. It is also an educational and social support service that enhances the readiness and quality of life for families with special needs. An exceptional family member is a family member with a physical, emotional, developmental, or intellectual disability that requires special treatment, therapy, education, training, or counseling.

B-43.   Special needs can range from learning disabilities to medical conditions such as asthma, seizure activity and/or mental health conditions. The program ensures medical and educational needs are accessible and appropriate to accommodate these individuals' needs. For additional information, visit your ACS center and local EFMP office at your installation.

EDUCATION

ARMY CONTINUING EDUCATION

B-44.   The Army Continuing Education System (ACES) promotes lifelong learning and sharpens the competitive edge of the Army now and for the Future Force. It instills the organizational value of education within the active Army, Army Reserve and Army National Guard. ACES is committed to excellence in service, innovation, and deployability. Through Army education centers worldwide, ACES provides educational programs and services to support the professional and personal development of soldiers, adult family members, and DA civilians.

B-45.   ACES programs and services help to improve the combat readiness of America's Army by expanding soldier skills, knowledge, and aptitudes to produce confident, competent leaders. The programs support leader development and soldier career progression by building job-related critical thinking and decision-making skills required for warfighting, sensitive peacekeeping operations, and success on the digitized battlefield. Education programs and services support the enlistment, retention, and transition of soldiers.

The advancement and diffusion of knowledge is the only guardian of true liberty.

James Madison

B-46.   Army education centers offer a wide variety of programs (certificate, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees) through US vocational-technical schools, colleges, and universities. Professional education counselors assist soldiers to develop education goals and educational plans to achieve them in a cost-effective, timely manner. For additional information visit your installation education center or the ACES website at www.armyeducation.army.mil. Army continuing education policy and guidance are found in Army Regulation ( AR 621-5, Army Continuing Education System. Related publications include AR 621-202, Army Education Incentives and Entitlements, and AR 611-5, Army Personnel Selection and Classification.

GREEN TO GOLD PROGRAM

B-47.   The Green to Gold Program seeks talented young enlisted soldiers who want to earn a commission as an Army officer. Quality enlisted soldiers with leadership potential, who have served at least two years on active duty, are allowed to voluntary request discharge from active duty to enroll in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC).

B-48.   Enlisted soldiers who meet the prerequisites can either apply for a 2, 3, or 4-year scholarship or can participate in the Green to Gold Program (without applying for or earning a scholarship). Soldiers who participate in this program are discharged from active duty under the provisions of Chapter 16-2, AR 635-200. Cadets who entered the ROTC through the Green to Gold program, whether under a scholarship or not, may use their Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) benefits and receive a tax-free stipend.

B-49.   Local Army ROTC cadre give periodic briefings on the Green to Gold Program at Army installations. You may also receive information at the ROTC detachment on a walk-in basis. Basic qualifications for Green to Gold are as follows (some waivers are possible):

• Have served on active duty for two years.
• Attain a general technical (GT) score of 110 or higher.
• Recommended by your company commander and the first field grade officer in the chain-of-command.
• Have neither UCMJ, civil convictions, nor have any such actions pending.
• Have no more than three dependents and are not a single parent.
• Pass a physical examination in accordance with (IAW) AR 40-501, Standards of Medical Fitness.
• Meet height and weight standards IAW AR 600-9, Army Weight Control Program.
• Pass the Army physical fitness test (APFT) with a minimum of 60 points in each event.
• Eligible to reenlist.
• Accepted for admission by a college or university that offers ROTC.
• Receive a Letter of Acceptance into the ROTC program from the Professor of Military Science (PMS) at the institution you will attend.

B-50.   Scholarship requirements for the Green to Gold Program are the following (no waivers):

• Complete your degree and Military Science requirements By your 25th birthday as of 30 June of the year you're commissioned. You can add one year to the 25 year limit for each year of active duty up to four years (i.e. maximum age for a scholarship is 29 regardless of time on active duty).
• Have a 2.5 grade point average (GPA) on all college work completed.
• Have a minimum American College Test (ACT) assessment score of 19 or Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) score of 920 for a 3 and 4 year scholarship.

B-51.   To participate in the Green to Gold Program without a scholarship you must be accepted as an academic junior and have an approved academic worksheet (Cadet Command Form 104-R) that shows you will complete the program in two years.

B-52.   You may enroll in Army ROTC the same time you enroll in college. Army ROTC is available at more than 800 colleges and universities. For more information visit your nearest ROTC representative or the Army ROTC website at www.armyrotc.com.

UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY PREPARATORY SCHOOL (USMAPS)

B-53.   Each year about 200 enlisted soldiers are offered admission to the US Military Academy or the Preparatory School at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. Although some soldiers are offered direct admission to West Point, most attend the Prep School first. All applications are made directly to West Point. Soldiers not directly admitted to West Point will be automatically considered for admission to the Prep School.

B-54.   In addition to having a sincere interest in attending West Point and becoming an Army officer, applicants must be—

• US citizens.
• Unmarried with no legal obligation to support dependents.
• Under 23 years of age prior to 1 July of the year entering USMA (under 22 prior to 1 July of the year entering the Prep School).
• A high school graduate or have a General Education Development (GED) certificate.
• Of high moral character.

B-55.   Soldiers who meet the basic eligibility requirements, have achieved SAT scores greater than 1000 or ACT composite score of 20 or higher and achieved average grades or better in their high school curriculum are especially encouraged to apply. Soldiers must obtain an endorsement from their company or lowest-level unit commander. While this endorsement constitutes a nomination, soldiers are also strongly encouraged to obtain additional nominations from their congressional nomination sources.

FUNDED LEGAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (FLEP)

B-56.   The Office of the Judge Advocate General (OTJAG) annually accepts applications for the Army's Funded Legal Education Program (FLEP). Under this program, the Army sends active duty commissioned officers to law school at government expense if funding permits. Selected officers remain on active duty while attending law school and have an active duty service obligation (ADSO) upon completion.

B-57.   Details are in Chapter 14, AR 27-1. This program is open to commissioned officers in the rank of second lieutenant through captain. Applicants must have at least two but not more than six years of total active Federal service at the time legal training begins. Eligibility is governed by Title 10 of the US Code and is non-waivable. Your local Staff Judge Advocate has further information.

ARMY MEDICAL DEPARTMENT (AMEDD) ENLISTED COMMISSIONING PROGRAM (AECP)

B-58.   The AECP allows active duty enlisted soldiers to obtain a scholarship to attend college in a full-time student status while still receiving full pay and benefits in their current grade. Application to the AECP is open to all active duty army enlisted soldiers, regardless of MOS, who are able to gain acceptance as a full time student to an accredited nursing program with an academic and clinical curriculum in English; and graduate within 24 calendar months. Soldier applicants must have a minimum of 3 years and maximum of 10 years of active component enlisted military service at the time of commission. Time in service waivers will be approved or disapproved by PERSCOM on a case by case basis. Applicants must extend or re-enlist to have at least 36 months of time remaining on active duty after graduating from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, based on projected date of graduation.

B-59.   Upon earning their BSN degree and successfully completing the National Council for Licensure Examination-RN (NCLEX-RN), these soldiers are commissioned second lieutenants in the Army Nurse Corps (active component). Selected soldiers will have an ADSO after commissioning. For more information contact your local Army Education Center or Army Medical Treatment Facility (MTF) Education Department. You may also see the AECP website at http://www.usarec.army.mil/aecp/.

OTHER ASSISTANCE FOR THE SOLDIER AND FAMILY

BETTER OPPORTUNITIES FOR SINGLE SOLDIERS (BOSS)

B-60.   Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS) is a program that helps commanders address the well-being and morale issues of the single and unaccompanied soldiers in their units. It is one of more than 200 Army morale, welfare, and recreation programs delivered by the US Army Community and Family Support Center, a headquarters Department of the Army agency.

B-61.   Established in 1989 as a balance to the emphasis on increased family-oriented programming, installation BOSS programs are governed by Army Regulation 215-1, Morale, Welfare and Recreation Activities and Nonappropriated Fund Instrumentalities, and Department of the Army Circular 608-01-01, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Program. Designed to provide a "voice" for single soldiers, BOSS has three key components: well-being, community service, and recreation/leisure activities.

B-62.   BOSS has programs at 48 installations in the continental US and 47 installations outside the US. Each installation has an MWR advisor for BOSS programs, who is in the Directorate of Community [and Family] Activities (DCA or DCFA). An elected committee or council of soldier representatives from installation units operate the BOSS program; the command sergeant major approves the committee members who serve for one year. Upon being elected or appointed, BOSS representatives are placed on additional duty orders and are expected to be at all BOSS meetings when the unit mission does not dictate otherwise.

B-63.   Committee members coordinate single soldier activities and events that fall within two key components of the program: community service and recreation/ leisure activities. They also gather input on well-being issues, input which is worked to resolution at the lowest command level. Empowered with this responsibility, single soldiers feel more respected and bonded into the "Army of One." Likewise soldiers see that their voice counts and they are heard on issues that affect their well-being.

B-64.   BOSS representatives must brief their chain-of-command before any program is implemented at the installation. With the aid of the MWR advisor, the soldier representative plans and executes events in tandem with the mission of the command. BOSS works in conjunction with other MWR programs such as entertainment, recreation centers, or outdoor recreation activities. BOSS soldiers assume a lead role in planning special BOSS events that meet the needs and desires of the single soldiers on that installation. BOSS councils have sponsored events such as soldier talent competitions, concerts, dances, and trips.

B-65.   BOSS further encourages and assists single soldiers in identifying and participating in community service and volunteer opportunities. BOSS representatives contribute to their communities by serving in post organizations and on various councils, such as the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), dining facilities, health promotion, MWR, barracks, Defense Commissary Agency, and Army Family A Plan.

B-66.   BOSS members plan and execute community service projects with national prog such as Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, Adopt-a-Highway and Special Olympics. BOSS representatives coordinate partnerships with recruiters to take delayed entry program recruits on tours of an installation. They have also initiated programs, such as BOSS Against Drunk Drivers (BADD) and Adopt-a-Soldier, that address commanders' concerns about soldier isolation during holiday periods. BOSS soldiers also support installation programs by volunteering with Child and Youth Services. By partnering with the Army Community Service Installation Volunteer Coordinator, BOSS ensures all soldier volunteer hours are documented, giving soldiers valuable experience for future referrals.

AMERICAN RED CROSS

B-67.   Today's American Red Cross service to the Armed Forces is keeping pace with the changing military through its network of 900 local chapters and 109 offices located on military installations worldwide. Both active duty and community-based military can count on the Red Cross to provide emergency communication services around-the-clock, 365 days a year, keeping the service member and his/her family in touch across the miles.

B-68.   Although we are most familiar with the Red Cross messages when there is a family emergency, the Red Cross also provides access to financial assistance through the military aid societies, counseling, information and referral, and veteran's assistance. While not a part of the Department of Defense, Red Cross staff members deploy along side the military to such areas as Afghanistan, Kosovo, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait working and living amongst the troops to ensure they receive vital Red Cross services.

B-69.   The Red Cross often conducts blood drives and offers a full menu of disaster and health and safety training courses. These activities are available to service members and their families at Red Cross chapters and on military installations. For additional information on Red Cross programs and services, go to www.redcross.org and click on AFES (Armed Forces Emergency Services) or call the toll free number 1-877-272-7337.

CASUALTY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

B-70.   The casualty assistance program provides assistance to the primary next-of-kin (PNOK) of deceased soldiers and retirees. The Army may provide casualty assistance to the PNOK of all deceased soldiers in the following categories—

• Active Duty military.
• USAR/ARNG enroute to/from/participating in Active Duty Training.
• Soldiers in AWOL status.
• Army retirees.
• Soldiers separated from the Army less than 120 days.

B-71.   The main objectives of casualty assistance are the following:

• Assist the PNOK during the period immediately following a casualty.
• Eliminate delay in settling claims and paying survivor benefits.
• Assist the PNOK in other personnel-related affairs.

B-72.   The Army has established Casualty Assistance Commands (CAC) at most major installations where the PNOK of deceased soldiers can get help. Department of the Army policy concerning casualty assistance is that the CAC will appoint a Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO) when a soldier is reported as deceased or missing. PNOK of retirees must request a CAO. While casualty assistance is provided to the PNOK, advice and guidance may be provided to other next of kin (NOK) if warranted by the situation, but a CAO need not be appointed.

B-73.   The CAO and CAC helps families cope with the loss of their soldier. Primarily the CAO (or CAC if a CAO has not been appointed) helps the PNOK in understanding the entitlements for a military funeral, applying for the various benefits due to the beneficiaries of the deceased and providing other assistance in regards to military benefits.

B-74.   Notification of the PNOK and secondary next of kin (SNOK) occurs as promptly as possible and in a timely, professional, dignified and understanding manner. In death and missing cases, a uniformed service representative personally perform the notification will always be in Class A uniform. Only officers, warrant officers and senior noncommissioned officers in grade sergeant first class through command sergeant major will perform the notification. In other than death and missing cases or in the case of retirees or separated soldiers, notification is normally by telephone.

There's no more effective way of creating bitter enemies of the Army than by falling to do everything we can possibly do in a time of bereavement, nor is there a more effective way of making friends for the Army than by showing we are personally interested in every casualty which occurs.

General of the Army George C. MarshallB-18

B-75.   More information is available in AR 600-8-1, Army Casualty Operations/Assistance/Insurance, DA Pam 608-4, A Guide for Survivors of Deceased Army Members, DA Pam 600-5, Handbook for Retiring Soldiers and Their Families, or contact your local casualty area command for assistance. You may also visit the PERSCOM web site at www.perscom.army.mil for detailed information on the casualty assistance program.