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With Loyalty Day on May 1, Victory in Europe Day on May 8, Military Spouse Appreciation Day on May 12, Armed Forces Day on May 20 and Memorial Day on May 29, this is a big month for the military. Due to the number of days honoring the armed forces, in 1999 Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month, according to Military.com. These days of national unity offer an opportunity for everyone to honor, recognize, remember and appreciate all those who have served and continue to serve our country.

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  • Loyalty Day kicks off the month-long celebration as a day set aside for everyone to reaffirm their loyalty to our great nation and take a moment to reflect on the proud heritage of our unique American freedom. 
  • Victory in Europe Day commemorates the Allies acceptance of the German surrender to end World War II in Europe.
  • Military Spouse Appreciation Day honors the important role families play in supporting their spouses in the armed forces.
  • Armed Forces Day is when when citizens can show their appreciation and thanks to everyone serving in the U.S. military branches, including the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines and Navy.
  • Memorial Day, while traditionally the kick-off to summer for most people, is one of the most cherished days for remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by those men and women who gave everything for our country.

"Retailers, restaurants and recreational organizations are providing discounts and promotions."

Some of the great benefits during this month

As a way of celebrating National Military Appreciation Month, many retailers, restaurants and recreational organizations provide discounts and promotions for members of the armed forces and veterans.

Home Depot and Lowe's offers a 10 percent discount on all in-store purchases on Memorial Day.

Blue Star Museums, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense, the National Endowment of the Arts and Blue Star Families, offers free admission to military members starting Memorial Day and going through Labor Day.

Various hotels, such as Hilton, Red Roof Inn and Westgate Resorts also offer a 10 percent discount to all active, reserve or retired service members, offering a great incentive to hit the road and take in some much-needed relaxation.

Military families who want to take advantage of these hotel discounts, can take a trip and receive a discount at the following amusement parks and tourist sites:

  • California's Great America.
  • Carowinds in Charlotte, North Carolina.
  • The Cincinnati Zoo.
  • Colonial Williamsburg.
  • Kings Island.
  • Michigan's Adventure.
  • Valleyfair.

In addition to these national chains offering great perks for military members and their families, small businesses and local organizations all across the country are also doing their part with various discounts and promotions. From parades to concerts to special events, people everywhere will be showing their support for the brave men and women who keep our country safe. 

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While most people tend to think of adults when it comes to the armed forces, children and teenagers play an important role in the military family. From dealing with a deployed parent to moving from one base and school to another, military children face their own set of challenges that most kids their age never have to experience. To applaud the commitment and sacrifices made by the youngest members of military families, the Department of Defense Military Community and Family Policy (MC&FP) designated April as the Month of the Military Child.

Spotlight on the military child

Started by Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger in 1986, all the branches of the armed forces honor the Month of the Military Child in their own way. For instance, the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) celebrates these brave youths by:

  • Implementing strategies designed to prepare DoDEA students more thoroughly for college and career readiness.
  • Challenging students to embrace their full potential and excel academically, socially, physically and emotionally.
  • Creating the organizational capacity to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of its model, unified school system.

As noted by National PTA, since the 2001, about 2 million military children have seen one of their parents be deployed. Further, more than 900,000 youths have had one or both of their parents deployed multiple times. Currently, there are 1.2 million children around the world with a parent who's on an active duty.

Groups across the country have set up programs to help military children.Groups across the country have set up programs to help military children.

Supporting military children

Regularly switching home, communities and schools can place a stressor on military children that other kids don't always have to face. Compared to civilian children, children in a military family will move, on average, about three times more often throughout their youth, the PTA noted. All told, military children move on average 10 times, with some youths moving up to 36 times. 

From schools to sports to community programs, there are organizations and groups of all sorts that help children deal with some of the stressors arising from their unique experiences. For instance, the University of Southern California houses an entire department solely dedicated to researching and supporting military children in school. This is extremely helpful, as the PTA noted that it takes a school-wide effort to support military children during their transitions.

In March, the Washington Capitals hockey team invited more than 200 military members and their families to enjoy a night of ice skating at the Kettler Capitals IcePlex in Arlington, Virginia, according to the official blog of the Coast Guard workforce, All Hands. Several players of the team also came out to meet with the families.

Military youth face unique challenges.Military youth face unique challenges.

One way that families with active duty servicemembers can alleviate some of their children's stress that arises from the constant moving is by adequately preparing them for the transition. All Hands noted that being honest with the children about what is happening should be a top priority. Communicating with children helps reassure them about the move and makes it easier to adjust to the changes. Further, providing fun activities for the trip, whether it's a short plane ride or a cross-country drive, can help.

Another way that organizations and groups show their support is by offering scholarships for military children. From Fisher House, a nonprofit organization that helps servicemembers and their families, to the Corvias Foundation, a private, charitable group, military children have plenty of options to choose from to pursue scholarship opportunities.

While their childhood might be a bit different than their civilian counterparts, military youths enjoy the support and gratitude from everyone for their strength and perseverance during what can sometimes be tough times.  

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Communication and coordination are crucial following a natural disaster, major accident or other times of crisis. First responders must have the capabilities to effectively and easily relay orders, context and real-time reports on what's happening to quickly deal with the problem at hand. Unfortunately, there are currently more than 10,000 networks for voice communications, most of which do not interoperate, according to AT&T. This leads to major problems when, during an emergency, first responders are unable to, in fact, respond.

To solve this problem, the U.S. Department of Commerce recently contracted AT&T to build a special broadband network specifically for first responders to use during these times of crisis. This nationwide seamless, IP-based, high-speed mobile communication network gives first responders priority access to boost different groups' ability to communicate with others when responding to a crisis. With greater ability to communicate and coordinate, first responders can improve safety and more effectively respond to crises.

First responders need to have the capabilities to communicate and collaborate with each other, as well as other first responders, such as police officers or EMTs.First responders need to have the capabilities to communicate and coordinate with each other, as well as other first responders, such as police officers or EMTs.

Background on the network

The inception for this network arose from the response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, CNN reported. The 9/11 Commission discovered that emergency responders relied on different radio frequencies during the aftermath, which made communication and coordination efforts between the groups nearly impossible. In response to this, the Commission recommended that Congress establish a radio spectrum specifically for public safety and first responders.

Based on this recommendation, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), an independent group at the Commerce Department, will now partner with AT&T to build this crucial network. AT&T will invest $40 billion to build and operate the network over the next 25 years, while FirstNet will provide an additional $6.5 billion over the next five years.

"Today is a landmark day for public safety across the country and is a prime example of the incredible progress we can make through public-private partnerships," said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.

AT&T Chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson also hailed the project as a one-of-a-kind project that will greatly improve first responder safety.

"We are honored to work with FirstNet to build a network for America's police, firefighters and EMS that is second to none," said Stephenson. "This is an unprecedented public-private partnership investment in infrastructure that makes America a leader and public safety a national priority."

First responders need access to a nationwide broadband network.First responders need access to a nationwide broadband network.

Writing in PoliceMag, Dave George, president of Pryme Radio Products, said that it's not the technology that's important for first responders, it's the network. Network-based wireless communications will be a major driving force in the years to come, and first responders will be there with cutting-edge technology thanks to this new public-private partnership between AT&T and FirstNet.

Moving beyond the network

In addition to providing a nationwide network for first responders to communicate and collaborate, the partnership will also:

  • Keep first responders safe by improving rescue and recovery operations.
  • Expedite the development of an Internet of Things and Smart City solutions focused on public safety, i.e., using real-time weather data to forecast the potential for natural disasters, or using real-time traffic conditions to speed up emergency response times.
  • Develop advanced technological capabilities, such as drones and robots with sensors to capture real-time video or images of disasters.

Overall, the goal of this public-private partnership is to boost first responder safety and ensure they're equipped to manage crises and emergencies as quickly and efficiently as possible. First responders know the importance of using the right tools for the job, and with this new broadband network at their disposal, first responders will have what they need to get the job done. 

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ALEXANDRIA, VA—The Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA) and its affiliate, 5Star Life Insurance Company, announced today it has been selected by the National Guard Association of California (NGAC) as the provider of its State Sponsored Life Insurance program effective May 1, 2017. read more »

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From Sara Emma ​Edmonds, who served in the Civil War as a man to Army Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, the first female 4-star general, women veterans have made considerable contributions to the U.S through their service.

Comprising 10 percent of the armed services veteran population in the United States and projected to grow to 15 percent by 2030, women veterans experience some unique challenges and opportunities compared to male veterans, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

With more than 2 million women veterans there are many programs in place to provide an easier way for female veterans to transition back into civilian life and get started on their next chapter, whether that's going to school, starting a family or opening their own business. The National Woman's Veterans Summit serves as one such event where individuals can come together to learn about issues that affect women veterans, such as entrepreneurial training and opportunities. 

Women veterans with entrepreneurial dreams can take advantage of the many programs available.Women veterans with entrepreneurial dreams can take advantage of the many programs available.

The National Women Veterans Summit

The 2017 National Women Veterans Summit, originally scheduled for April but now moved to August, will celebrate the storied history and sacrifices made by women in the armed forces. The event, which takes place in Dallas, offers women veterans and their families a great opportunity to spark dialogues and collaboration among:

  • Private industry.
  • Nonprofit sector.
  • Federal government.
  • Innovators.
  • Researchers.
  • Caregivers.

This event marks the first national-level summit for women veterans since 2011 and will provide a platform to discuss the issues important to women veterans, on topics such as:

  • Employment.
  • Mental health.
  • Entrepreneurship.
  • Military sexual trauma.
  • Reproductive health.
  • Culture change.

While all of these are important women veterans issues, many attendees visit the summit for the chance to learn more about starting a new business or growing a current one.

From the VA to the SBA, entrepreneurial programs for women veterans abound.From the VA to the SBA, entrepreneurial programs for women veterans abound.

Entrepreneurial aspirations

One of the more popular aspects of the National Women Veterans Summit is the guidance and workshops for boosting entrepreneurship among women veterans. Women veterans own more than 380,000 small businesses, according to the VA. Not only are these owners seeking new networking opportunities, many entrepreneurs and prospective founders attend the summit for guidance on how to get their business ideas up and running.

To help women in their pursuit of following the American dream and starting their own business or growing a current one, there are many different programs and resources already available for female veterans.

One such program is the VA's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, which helps veterans navigate the federal procurement system and increase participation.

The U.S. Small Business Administration also has several programs and offers several grants for women veterans. Some of these grants include the Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship and the San Antonio Lift Fund, a seven-week entrepreneurship program. Late last year, the SBA and the VA partnered together to provide $300,000 in funding for women and veteran-owned businesses by granting up to six awards of at least $25,000. 

The Coalition for Veteran Owned Business serves entrepreneurial military veterans by connecting them with additional programs for education and training on commerce and supplier opportunities.

For those individuals who need a place to network, collaborate and exchange ideas, Women As Veteran Entrepreneurs provides a forum for small-business owners to connect with subcontracting and mentoring opportunities, strategic information, business teaming and more.

With a proud history in the military and many outreach programs available, women veterans have many promising entrepreneurial opportunities awaiting them when they finish their service to our country. 

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In addition to wanting to serve their country, many people join the armed forces as a launchpad for a college education. The GI Bill and other military-based programs provide assistance to smooth out the transition and help fund a higher education. Active duty servicemembers interested in attending college after discharge should consider military-friendly universities and schools.

How the army helps vets attend college

Thanks to the passing of the GI Bill, the armed forces offers one of the best routes for Americans to gain access to a higher education. There are many options for colleges all across the country for our men and women in uniform, as well as a growing number of online programs. Best of all, many universities are uniquely suited to help veterans or servicemen and women transition from active duty to civilian life through campus engagement groups, veterans clubs and other memberships.

The military is there to help servicemen and women obtain a college education in many different ways. The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides financial help for those eligible for:

  • Tuition and fee payments.
  • Monthly housing allowance.
  • Books and supplies stipend.
  • One-time rural benefit for certain veterans.

For the 2017 academic year (Aug. 1, 2017 through July 31, 2018), the Post-9/11 GI Bill covers all tuition and fee payments for an in-state public school or up to $22,805.34 per academic year for a private or foreign school. The Post-9/11 GI Bill also established the Yellow Ribbon Program, which allows colleges, universities and other degree-granting programs to voluntarily work with the VA to fund any costs that the bill doesn't cover.

With help from the GI Bill, veterans have more financial options for attending college.With help from the GI Bill, veterans have more financial options for attending college.

Top 10 best schools for vets

Active duty servicemembers researching schools for after discharge or current veterans who want to apply now should consider institutions that rank highly for being friendly to members of the military.

The Military Times released its Best for Vets: Colleges 2017, with its top 130 schools listed based on military enrollment, retention and graduation rates, as well as affordability, extracurriculars and Yellow Ribbon compliance. The Military Times listed the following as the top 10 schools:

  1. The University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
  2. Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey.
  3. Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York.
  4. Armstrong State University, Savannah, Georgia.
  5. D'Youville College, Buffalo, New York.
  6. Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado.
  7. Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia.
  8. South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota.
  9. University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska.
  10. The University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas.
Pursuing a college degree is one of the main reasons many people join the armed forces.Pursuing a college degree is one of the main reasons many people join the armed forces.

Best military colleges online

Unlike traditional students who attend college after graduating high school, servicemen and women enter college after their enlistment period. This means many military personnel already have a family and a household in place that needs support. With so many responsibilities and limited resources, pursuing a degree online can be a smart move.

U.S. News & World Report released its list of Best Online Bachelor's Programs for Veterans, ranking the offerings to obtain a degree in higher education using predominantly internet-based coursework. The list relied on factors such as reputation, faculty credentials, retention rates and graduate debt loads. The publication also included whether the program has a critical mass of students with military backgrounds and if the school designed the programs to make them veteran-focused, either participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program or charging in-state tuition which the GI Bill can cover.

 U.S. News & World Report's top five online bachelor's programs for veterans were:

  1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide, Daytona Beach, Florida.
  2. University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma.
  3. Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona.
  4. Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky.
  5. California University of Pennsylvania, California, Pennsylvania.

With so many options to choose from, military personnel should have no trouble finding the college or university that best suits their financial needs and helps them transition back into civilian life. 

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With a nearly 2.5 million Americans now veterans of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the need for programs and networks to help soldiers transition from military to civilian life is greater than ever.

According to a recent survey of veterans commissioned by The Washington Post and the Kaiser Family Foundation, 55 percent of respondents said they sometimes or often feel disconnected from civilian life after the end of active service.

While there are several ways for veterans to go about transitioning from military to civilian life – from social support groups to veteran empowerment organizations – one of the best options is focusing on fitness programs. Speaking with Homeland Magazine, long-time military fitness trainer, Tee Major, explained that newly minted veterans struggle with no longer being told what to do on a daily basis.

However, the structure provided by a regimented gym schedule can help ease the shift, in addition to providing the healthy and active lifestyle these former soldiers have been accustomed to living.

Maintaining a regular gym routine is a great way to help veterans transition from military to civilian life.Maintaining a regular gym routine is a great way to help veterans transition from military to civilian life.

Veteran gyms and health programs on the rise

In an effort to help bridge this re-integration, gyms and facilities across the country are providing special programs to help veterans transition from military to civilian life.

The Outpost Training Facility is one such special gym. Located in Greenville, South Carolina, the facility has partnered with non-profits to provide better workout opportunities geared specifically to veterans, WSPA.com reported. 

Launched by two veterans, Josh Formaneck and Matt Cassabon, the gym's aim is to not only encourage better health and fitness among veterans, but to also give these returning warriors a place to find camaraderie with their brothers and sisters in arms.

"This is a place where we can share those stories from our past with people that understand, that can relate and want to hear what we've been through," explained Formaneck.

While the Outpost Training Facility operates as a physical establishment, other programs exist online for veterans to use no matter where they're located.

In addition to his work as a military trainer, Tee Major created online specialty fitness programs to promote health and fitness among veterans. With guiding principles that incorporate the creeds and core values of the different military branches, fitness programs like these mirror the patterns and practices that are commonplace in the armed services.

Sometimes veterans must transition to civilian life following a major injury. Many gyms have launched programs aimed specifically at helping veterans who have suffered serious injuries. For instance, a Crossfit gym is Oregon is providing free membership for post-9/11 veterans who have a 30 percent disability or more, reported KTVL.

Veterans have been using their talents to become great health and fitness coaches.Veterans have been using their talents to become great health and fitness coaches.

Finding careers in fitness

With such strong demand for gyms and fitness programs aimed at veterans, many former service members are getting into the game to help their brothers and sisters at arms. The discipline learned and stamina built up while in the military lends itself well to the rigors of being a personal trainer. 

In an effort to assist veterans, the American Council on Exercise launched its Salute You Scholarship program, which helps honorably discharged military men and women in obtaining certification to become ACE Personal Trainers. With study materials, an exam registration voucher and one-on-one study assistance all provided free of charge, the American Council on Exericise's "Salute You" program has already helped more than 1,000 veterans achieve accreditation to begin their new careers in health and fitness. 

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First responders serving and protecting their communities are receiving a helping hand of their own thanks to new technology from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Developed at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., the POINTER system is a tracking technology that helps first responders combat the unreliability associated with current GPS devices.

POINTER, which stands for Precision Outdoor and Indoor Navigation and Tracking for Emergency Responders, could represent a "Holy Grail" capability for the men and women who brave dangerous environments during emergencies, according to Greg Price, first responder technologies division director at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

"To this day, the ability to track and locate first responders is a number one priority for disaster agencies across the country," Price said. "If the POINTER project continues along its current path of success, first responders will be safer in the future."

"POINTER could represent a 'Holy Grail' capability."

When GPS is life or death
First responders such as firefighters rely on GPS to navigate treacherous environments. Reliable GPS data can make all the difference between escaping a burning building or rescuing a civilian trapped under debris.

Xenophon Gikas, fire captain at the Los Angeles Fire Department and part of the DHS' First Responder Resource Group, recently set the scene for Newsweek, illustrating how even in-depth first responder training is no match for the harsh realities of the job.

"It's hot and it's loud [at a fire]," Gikas said. "People are screaming, saws are going off.… We have blowers that we turn on to blow heat and smoke. It's a crappy environment. It's the worst one we have. That problem of trying to find one of us who's trapped or down or lost – whoever figures that one out is going to have the Holy Grail in their hand."

Instead of relying on radio waves, which can ricochet off walls or fail to penetrate indoors, the POINTER system utilizes magnetoquasistatic fields. This class of electromagnetic field has shown high accuracy and reliability indoors, providing first responders with detailed information regarding individuals' location, elevation and orientation.

GPS can become unreliable when first responders require it most.GPS can become unreliable when first responders require it most.

Salvation the size of a cell phone
While POINTER is life-saving technology for first responders, it's also cumbersome in its current state. As highlighted by Newsweek, POINTER is approximately the size of a shoebox and weighs three pounds. Firefighters wear it like a backpack, with the field it generates being tracked by a separate device nearby.

Now plans are in motion to miniaturize this technology, replacing the backpack with a device the size of a cellular phone. It's hoped that in addition to being used by fire and police departments, the technology could be adopted by military personnel. There are also applications for POINTER to be used in space exploration.

"POINTER could be used in space robotics," said Darmindra Arumugam, the NASA researcher who led the technology's development. "It could be used for tracking robots in underground tunnels, caves or under ice. They need to be able to navigate themselves, and we don't have sensors today that would be able to track them. For us, this is a great opportunity to develop a technology for NASA and non-NASA uses."

The development of POINTER is in keeping with the DHS' renewed focus on new technologies for first responders. For example, the DHS selected 10 startup companies last year as part of its EMERGE 2016: Wearable Technology Accelerator Program. The program is intended to invigorate tech companies to create wearable tools that can replace the heavy and unwieldy equipment many first responders are forced to carry.

Field trials for POINTER are on the horizon, and following them, perhaps speedy adoption among first responders across the country.

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We are proud to announce our 70th anniversary!

We were created as a nonprofit organization in 1947 with the support of General of the Army, Dwight D. Eisenhower. Initially formed in the basement of the Pentagon to provide $10,000 of life insurance to active duty officers serving overseas, we are one of the oldest and largest associations of our kind. Over the years, we have changed our name a few times, moved offices, added new products to our portfolio, and expanded our membership eligibility to cover all military, DoD, federal employees, and first responders. We have also created our own insurance company, 5Star Life, to underwrite our member eligible products and to serve our country's civilian work force through the worksite market.

"From workplace to war zone, we stand behind our insured families…"

While we have grown considerably and come a long way since our founding, our core mission remains steadfast – serving those who serve this great nation. And we will never be too large to forget that we are here to serve with integrity by offering flexible, customized insurance solutions.

Because there are no limits to the sacrifices our members and policyholders may be called up on to make, we do not exclude any occupation, duty assignment, deployment, or hazard from our protection at any time. From workplace to war zone, we stand behind our insured families, ready to deliver on our promise to pay claims quickly and compassionately. We hope to pay a benefit to the families suffering loss in every claim instance and we lean forward to do just that. And unlike anyone else in our industry, we offer a no cost scholarship benefit to the survivors of those whose deaths occur as a result of combat, terrorism, or participation as a first responder in an emergency.

We have paid almost $2 billion in claims, served thousands of members, and helped countless families achieve financial security in time of need. Today, we are 430,000 members strong, financially sound, and strategically positioned to face the future and serve new generations of members.

Thank you to our members, employees, field representatives, board of directors, and senior leaders as we say Happy Birthday AFBA!

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Chairman & President’s Message

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We are proud to announce our 70th anniversary!

We were created as a nonprofit organization in 1947 with the support of General of the Army, Dwight D. Eisenhower. Initially formed in the basement of the Pentagon to provide $10,000 of life insurance to active duty officers serving overseas, we are one of the oldest and largest associations of our kind. Over the years, we have changed our name a few times, moved offices, added new products to our portfolio, and expanded our membership eligibility to cover all military, DoD, federal employees, and first responders. We also have our own insurance company, 5Star Life, to underwrite our member eligible products and to serve our country’s civilian workforce through the worksite market.

While we have grown considerably and come a long way since our founding, our core mission remains steadfast – serving those who serve this great nation. And we will never be too large to forget that we are here to serve with integrity by offering flexible, customized insurance solutions. Because there are no limits to the sacrifices our members and policyholders may be called upon to make, we do not exclude any occupation, duty assignment, deployment, or hazard from our protection at any time. From the workplace to a war zone, we stand behind our insured families, ready to deliver on our promise to pay claims quickly and compassionately. And unlike anyone else in our industry, we offer a no cost scholarship benefit to the survivors of those whose deaths occur as a result of combat, terrorism, or participation as a first responder in an emergency.

We have paid almost $2 billion in claims, served thousands of members, and helped countless families achieve financial security in their time of need. Today, we are 450,000 members strong, financially sound, and strategically positioned to remain relevant, serving new generations of members. Thank you to our members, employees, field representatives, board of directors, and senior leaders as we say Happy Birthday AFBA!

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General Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart, USAF (Ret.)
Chairman & President

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Vote for your Board of Directors

You may view the bios of all Board members by clicking here. We are grateful for their leadership and oversight and encourage all members to vote online. Simply login to the Member Portal and click the Vote button. We will announce the results at the annual members meeting.

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Annual Member Meeting

You are invited to attend AFBA’s Annual Members Meeting. Join us on Friday, the 23rd of June, at 10:00 AM for light refreshments, a short presentation and Q & A on the state of AFBA. The meeting will be held in the AFBA Building, 909 N. Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. To attend, call the RSVP hotline at 1-800-776-2322 ext. 2009 or email [email protected].

Get to Know 5Star Life

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Founded in 1996 as a wholly owned subsidiary, 5Star Life Insurance Company is AFBA’s principal underwriter for member insurance products. 5Star Life Insurance Company exists to further the mission of AFBA to serve those who serve this great nation. To achieve that goal, 5Star Life provides value to AFBA in two unique and distinct ways.

  • The primary business goal of 5Star Life is to write all the AFBA insurance policies including underwriting, issuance, administration of the business, and paying claims. This goal allows AFBA to offer members the best product, at the best price, with the best service. That is and always will be our number one goal.
  • Outside of the AFBA markets, 5Star Life is also a thriving provider in the worksite voluntary and group benefits markets with a strong portfolio of insurance products and benefits solutions. A successful entity in its own right, 5Star Life provides economic value and scale to the AFBA operations. We can apply and leverage existing product design, service capabilities, and in-house expertise from our commercial business to our AFBA markets and operations.

We are focused on delivering the best life insurance value to members, high-quality affordable life insurance coverage with unique features not easily found in the marketplace. At the same time, we’re committed to maintain a financially strong insurance company. We have made significant investment in the past few years to manage the business, improve our policy administration systems and implement a brand-new claims system among other things to ensure that in 5, 10 or 50 years, we’ll still be here to pay claims for our members and their families. .

 


AFBA is Proud to Welcome the
National Guard Association of
California  src=

We are proud to announce that the National Guard Association of California (NGAC) has selected AFBA and 5Star Life Insurance Company as the provider of its State Sponsored Life Insurance program effective May 1, 2017.

AFBA is the leading provider in the National Guard market with more than 140,000 active insureds representing over $14B of life insurance in force in 38 states and territories. Both AFBA and NGAC are strongly committed to promoting the common welfare of their members and recognize that the soldiers and airmen of the National Guard deserve the best life insurance program available and this partnership will ensure that.

This affiliation with NGAC underscores our unwavering commitment to serve the men and women serving this great nation. It is a great honor and responsibility that we do not take lightly.

According to NGAC President John N. Haramalis, “Both AFBA and NGAC share a common legacy and mission of promoting the welfare of their members, and they recognize that the soldiers and airmen of the National Guard deserve the best life insurance program available. Their product is the strongest and most beneficial to Guard members and their families. We look forward to this partnership and continued growth.”

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New Claims System to Better Serve You

We are pleased to share with you that we have achieved a significant milestone that enables us to enhance our service to our members: we launched a new claims processing system, Fineos.

Fineos is an industry leading claims management system that enhances the member experience through improved communication, automation, personalization, and proactive claim management. We are excited to have this new tool at our disposal to help deliver the best possible service to members and beneficiaries.

Life insurance is a promise, a promise that we will be here for you and your family when you need us. Paying claims efficiently and compassionately is the moment of truth when we deliver on that promise.

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Enhanced Member Portal

 src= Last October, we launched our updated Member Portal. This secure, online platform gives you 24/7 access to important policy information. In addition to improved layout and design, you will notice we have also added new functionality. Please note that if you have not logged in to our website in a while, for security reasons, you may have to register again.

Consolidated Account Access
Once you log in, you have access to all your active policies on a single, personalized screen. You can quickly set up a one-time online bill payment, set up recurring payments, manage your profile, and download policy related forms.

Mobile-Friendly Design
You now have full access to all of the site’s features from any device, including your desktop computer, smartphone, tablet or any other mobile device. The responsive design of the new portal presents all site features in a user-friendly format.


Keep Current

We want to stay in touch with you! It’s important to keep us informed whenever you change your address, telephone number, or email addresses.

Do we have the correct, most recent beneficiaries for your life insurance? It’s critical to ensure that we have the most current beneficiary designations for you on file so that you know that the true beneficiary receives your life insurance proceeds. Have you recently gotten married? Did you have a child? Did a family member have a name change? Please let us know! Call 1-800-776-2322 to have a new beneficiary form sent to you or download one from our website.


Save Time

Did you know that you have different ways to pay your bill and manage your account? Try our quick and easy payment options on our website or through our automated phone option. If you prefer to talk to a representative, Customer Service has recently expanded the staffing on our payments line. Please call 1-800-776-2322 and choose option 1 for Customer Service then remain on the line and wait for the next prompt. Press 1 to make a payment with a representative.

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AFBA’s Financial Planning Guide  src=

AFBA’s complimentary 2017 Financial Planning Guide (FPG) is a 100-page booklet available to members and their families upon request. This valuable resource includes information on:

  • Basic principles of financial planning
  • Military pay, allowances and retirement benefits
  • Social Security and survivor benefits
  • Veterans benefits
  • Federal civilian employee benefits

You can download the guide (in PDF form) or request to have a copy mailed to you by clicking here.

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Charles C. Blanton AFBA Family Survivor College Scholarship

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Members can ensure the future well-being of their families in the event of an untimely death with our Survivor Scholarship. It provides up to $10,000 per family, per year for a maximum benefit of $40,000 for undergraduate tuition and fees. The surviving spouse or children of members killed in combat, as a result of an act of terrorism, or First Responders at the scene of an incident are eligible.

Long-Term Care Insurance: Help Protect Your Financial Freedom

You can receive a free consultation from a long term care insurance specialist dedicated to serving AFBA members. A short conversation can help you determine if this planning is right for you.

AFBA chose LTCI Partners, LLC to provide members with this service. They have access to many leading companies to shop and compare benefits and help you own meaningful benefits that fit your needs and budget – including exclusive AFBA member pricing.

Call 1-855-581-6647 or click www.getltci.com/afba for more information.

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Special Discounts for AFBA Members from GEICO

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You could save even more on insurance from GEICO! With GEICO you’ll enjoy:

  • Savings for multi-car policies, good student, safety features, and more.
  • 24/7 support, online or by phone, for claims bill paying, policy changes, and more.
  • Great policy rates for renters, motorcycles, and much more.
  • Outstanding customer service

Get a free quote: https://www.geico.com/mil/afba or call 1-800-368-2734.

GEICO contracts with various membership entities and other organizations, but these entities do not underwrite the offered insurance products. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Customer satisfaction based on an independent study conducted by Alan Newman Research, 2016. Homeowners, renters and condo coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2017 GEICO. GEICO is the second-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States according to the 2015 A.M. Best market share report, published May 2016. Discount amount varies in some states. One group discount applicable per policy. Coverage is individual. In New York a premium reduction may be available. GEICO may not be involved in a formal relationship with each organization; however, you still may qualify for a special discount based on your membership, employment or affiliation with those organizations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, One GEICO Plaza, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2017. 

 

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PenFed Mortgages: Helping AFBA Members Do Better

AFBA is proud to continue our Unique partnership with PenFed Credit Union that provides AFBA members with access to PenFed’s industry-leading mortgage programs and rates.

Wheather you are in the market to purchase a new home, need an equity line of credit, or want to refinance your mortgage, PenFed’s mortgage lending programs will match your needs and budget.

Take a look at what PenFed offers and decide which program is right for you. Visit PenFed.org/AFBA  or call 1-800-247-5626 to learn more.

 

AFBA Members are Invited to Apply for Auto Loans from PenFedPenFed’s Auto Lending programs provide the flexibility and all the extras you seek as you try to do better with your finances:

  • New car financing available up to 110% of MSRP – including taxes, title and tags
  • Used car loans available up to 110% of NADA Avg. retail value
  • No down payment required
  • Convenient online application process
  • Various lending terms available

If you’re thinking about buying a car, why wait? Visit PenFed.org/AFBA

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Emergency Assistance Plus Provides a Crucial Safety Net

Any time you have an accident or sudden illness while traveling away from home Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+), offered through AFBA, provides a crucial safety net that helps pay for emergency medical transportation expenses your health or travel insurance generally will NOT cover. With more than 20 assistance benefits, EA+ steps in to provide Medical Evacuation, Medical Assistance, Travel Assistance, and Assistance for Companions.

We put together a package of essential support services. All of which are vital in an emergency and made available to you at a bargain price. This package is far below what you’d likely pay on your own so sign up today.

For more information, visit www.emergencyassistanceplus.com/afba or call toll free 1-855-352-3032.

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Convenient Health Screenings Offered to AFBA Members

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AFBA members receive a discount off of a package of four important preventive health screenings through our partnership with Life Line Screening. It is proactive and smart to take care of your cardiovascular health and stay healthy and active.

Life Line Screening data shows that seventy percent of people aged fifty-five and older have at least two risk factors for cardiovascular disease and may not even know it.

By special arrangement, our members can get four screenings for only $135, plus a FREE Osteoporosis test:

  • Carotid Artery/Stroke
  • Abdominal Aorta
  • Atrial Fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease

Other screenings are available as well at an additional cost, including:

  • HDL and LDL Cholesterol levels
  • Diabetes risk
  • Bone density as a risk for possible osteoporosis
  • Kidney and thyroid function, and more

Call 1-866-895-3365 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com/afba.

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TRICARE Supplement Insurance Plan: Helping to Meet the Needs of the Military Community

Are you a military retiree using TRICARE? If so, read on to find out why TRICARE supplement insurance is a smart choice. Although TRICARE offers comprehensive insurance coverage, it’s important to note that it does not cover every costly expense a military retiree or their family may face.

TRICARE holders who would like some peace of mind of being covered regardless of what type of health care costs they may incur should look no further than a TRICARE supplement plan. TRICARE supplement will help reduce out-of-pocket expenses that are left behind by TRICARE and as a result may help secure your family’s financial future.

TRICARE Supplement Candidates

TRICARE supplement insurance is especially useful to military retirees and their families who use TRICARE as their primary form of insurance coverage.

If a TRICARE holder suffers from a serious illness or accident, he or she is responsible for unexpected out-of-pocket expenses to pay for hospital stays, surgeries, specialists and more. A TRICARE Supplement policy can help pay for these costly, unforeseen out-of-pocket expenses.

Features of the AFBA TRICARE Supplement Plan

TRICARE prescription copayments are increasing. Fortunately, the reimbursement amount with an AFBA TRICARE supplement plan, also increases in order to eliminate the burden of higher medical expenses. Out-of-pocket, doctor and hospital cost shares can also be paid for or reduced, depending on the type of TRICARE you hold. When you choose a TRICARE supplement, you also have the flexibility of choosing any TRICARE authorized provider anywhere in the world.

Help Protect Your Financial Future and Enroll in the AFBA TRICARE Supplement Today

You can’t predict the future but you can prepare for it. By choosing an AFBA TRICARE supplement plan, you help ensure that you and your family will be protected financially in the event of any health issue that may come your way. To learn more about TRICARE supplement and to enroll, call 1-800-638-2610 or visit https://www.afba-tricare.com/.

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