Is It a Good Idea to Waive Military Benefits to Increase FERS Benefits?
​
GovExec recently addressed the question of whether it is a good idea for federal employees with active duty military experience to permanently waive their military benefits to have the military time counted under FERS. The article caught the attention of our National Military Veterans Emphasis Program (MVEP) Chair Marcus Brooks who himself had 26 years of active duty service before coming to the federal government as a civilian. And, he noted that just a few weeks ago he was talking with someone about this very topic. So, it’s perfect timing to share the article with our members, many of whom might find themselves pondering this question.
Military Veterans Emphasis Program (MVEP) - “BIG Give
Back to Veterans Campaign”
​
The National Organization of Blacks In Government (BIG), through our Military Veterans Emphasis Program (MVEP), MVEP Chair, Mr. Marcus Brooks, is collecting items to support its “BIG Give Back To Veterans Campaign.” The goal is to collect essential items (see attachment) for men and women veterans. We need your help with this important campaign!
All donations, to include gift certificates/cards, and cash/check donations, received will be utilized to benefit veterans. The items will be donated to the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center Voluntary Services, at BIG’s 43rd Annual National Training Institute (NTI) during the week of August 15-18, 2022.
​
A variety of scholarships are available to veterans and their spouses and families. Visit the individual websites for more information on the various scholarships, complete eligibility requirements, and deadlines. Also check with your college or university to search for other available scholarships.
Blacks In Government (BIG) Military Veterans Emphasis Program (MVEP) National Vietnam War - Veterans Day
Vietnam War Veterans Day was first observed as a one-time occasion on March 29, 2012, when President Barack Obama issued a proclamation calling on “all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.” Using the same date originally chosen by President Obama (March 29th,), this date was chosen as an annual event in 2017 when President Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017.