WithTaxDay,April 15,quicklyapproaching, servicemembershaveoptions forhelpfiling their 2025 taxes,including assistancewith navigating changes to taxrules,such as thoseenactedas part oflastyear’sOne Big Beautiful BillAct. PageA6
NAVALSTATIONNORFOLK,Va. (March 16,2026)–Sailorsheave in mooring linesasthe Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyerUSS Gonzalez(DDG 66)departs from Naval Station Norfolk to beginoperations in supportofits scheduleddeployment.The ship’s departurecomesafter months of
The ship’sdeparturecomesafter months of training,maintenance,and certification events “The crew is readyand this ship brings significant combat capabilities to the fight,” emphasizedCapt.JohnBenfield,commodore
Gonzalez, stationed in Norfolk, Va,with acrewofapproximately300 Sailors, is a multi-missionguided-missiledestroyerwith air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, naval surfacefire support, andsurface warfare capability
“A truly incredible amount of training andenergywentintoensuringourcrewwas prepared forthisdeployment,”said Cmdr Michael Schenk,commanding officer,USS Gonzalez. “Additionally,the guidanceand
assistanceprovidedbySurfaceForceAtlantic, CarrierStrikeGroupsFourandTen,Surface Group Mid-Atlantic, Destroyer Squadron Twenty-Two,andtheMid-AtlanticRegional Maintenance Center exemplified the full team support behind this ship beingready foranychallengewemayface.Thankyouto our familiesand theNorfolk community for yourcontinuedsupportasweheadouttosea.
Gonzalez is the U.S. Navy’s 16th Arleigh Burke-classdestroyer.The ship wasnamed for Marine Sgt. Alfredo CantuGonzalez, a MedalofHonorrecipientintheVietnamWar ThekeelwaslaiddownonFeb.3,1994,atBath
Iron Works in Bath, Maine,and christened onFeb.18,1995 U.S. 2ndFleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime ready forces to fight acrossmultiple domainsinthe Atlantic andArctic in order toensureaccess,deteraggressionanddefend U.S.,allied,andpartnerinterests FormoreU.S.2ndFleetnewsandphotos, visitfacebook.com/US2ndFleet, https:// www.c2f.usff.navy.mil/, X-@US2ndFleet, and https://www.linkedin.com/company/ commander-u-s-2nd-fleet.
The ship’santicipated departurecomes after months of training, maintenance,and certification events as part of the George H. W.BushCarrierStrikeGroup
“The Ross crew is ready inall respects to deteraggression,protectfreedomoftheseas, and respond to anychallenge,”emphasized Capt.JohnBenfield,commodoreofDestroyer Squadron22.“Theyarepartofthereadiness engineofourgreatNavy,andtheyknowthat fortunefavorsvalor.”
Ross,stationed in Norfolk, Va,with a crew of approximately 300Sailors,isa multi-missionguided-missiledestroyerwith air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, naval surface firesupport,and surfacewarfare capability
“Thank youtoour families for all the continued support as we head outtosea Becauseofthem,theSailorsofUSSRosscan fullyembodyourshipmotto“FortuneFavors Valor”ineveryway,”saidCmdr.PiaM.Chapman,commandingofficer,USSRoss.“We’ve conductedextensivetraining,maintenance, andcertificationeventsaspartoftheGeorge H.W.BushCarrierStrikeGroup,andweare trainedandreadyfornationaltasking.”
Ross is namedfor Medal of Honor recipientandretiredNavyCaptainDonaldKirby
NAVALSTATION NORFOLK(March25, 2026)ArleighBurke-class guided-missile destroyerUSS Ross (DDG 71)departs from NavalStation Norfolk, March 25, to begin operations in supportofits scheduleddeployment.The ship’s departurecomesafter monthsoftraining, maintenance, and certification eventsaspartofthe George H. W. Bush Carrier StrikeGroup (U.S.NAVYPHOTO BYMASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST3RD CLASS GREGGORYFISHER)
Ross,recognizedforhisbraveryandrefusalto abandonhisdutyduringtheDecember1941 PearlHarborattacks.Theship’skeelwaslaid onApril10,1995,inPascagoula,Mississippi, andherchristeningwasheldoneyearlater U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in
response to thechanging global security environment,develops and employs maritime ready forces to fight across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic in order toensureaccess,deteraggressionanddefend U.S.,allied,andpartnerinterests
VIRGINIABEACH,Va.—Capt.Matthew K. Lewis relievedCapt. MartinN.Fentress, Jr asCommander,CarrierAirWing(CVW)7 inanairbornechangeofcommandceremony above the NavalAir Station Oceanaairfield andtheStrikerFighterSquadron(VFA)105 hangaronMarch19,2026
Fentressledninesubordinatecommands during his timeasCVW-7’s commander Rear Adm. Alexis T. Walker,Commander, CarrierStrikeGroup(CSG)10,presidedover theceremonyandRearAdm.ForrestYoung deliveredremarks
“Forthoseofuswhohavehadthepleasure to servewith Capt. Fentress,weknowthe simpletruth:hisuncompromisingintegrity his tireless work ethic,and relentlessdrive forhimselftohighstandards,”saidYoung Fentress is anativeofNorfolk, Virginia, graduated from Hampden-Sydney College with aBachelor of Arts inEconomics,prior tocommissioningintotheU.S.Navythrough theOfficerCandidateSchoolandbeingdesignated as aNaval Flight Officer.Heassumed major command of CVW-7—commonly called“TeamFreedom”-inSeptember2024 whereheledthemthroughtheOperational FleetReadinessProgram(OFRP).TheOFRP included aTailored Ship’sTraining Availability(TSTA)detachment,AirWingFallon (AWF),GroupSail(GRUSAIL),andCompositeTrainingUnitExercise(COMPTUEX),in addition to thenumerousAdvancedReadinessProgram’sforeachoftheairwing’stype/ model/series of aircraft,all playing arolein preparing Team Freedomfor itsupcoming deployment.
He expressedhis certaintyinthe readiness of Team Freedom going forwardand theimpacttheywillhaveontheworld.
“Yourstrengthisashieldfortheinnocent. Your presence is amessage to ouradversaries.Andyourlethality,ifcalledupon,willbe thedecisiveswordthatprotectsournation’s interests.Look around you. Youare Team Freedom. Youare ready to answer thecall,” saidFentress Lewis, thenew commanderofCVW-7,is anativeofCohasset, Massachusetts,graduated from the U.S. NavalAcademy in 2002 andearnedhis“WingsofGold”inKingsville, Texas,in2004
He alsoexpressed certainty in CVW-7’s readinessforitsupcomingdeploymentwith CSG-10.
“I’m confident whenIsay we areready forwhat’stocome,inwhateverAORwefind ourselvesoperatingin,”saidLewis Additionally,heemphasizedthe impor-
Capt. Martin FentressJr.,center,receivesanhonoraryChiefPetty Officervessel from the Chiefs’MessofCarrierAir Wing (CVW) 7aspartofa changeofcommand ceremonyaboard Naval Air StationOceana. Capt.MattLewis relievedFentressasthe commander of CVW-7. (U.S.NAVYPHOTOSBYMASSCOMMUNICATION SPECIALIST2ND CLASSJULIANNAJ.LYNCH)
tanceofthecontributionsofeachandevery service member,regardless of role,rank,or responsibility.
Acarrier airwing’s mission is to conduct carrier warfareoperations and assistinthe planning,control,coordination and integrationofair wing squadrons in support of carrierairwarfare.
Team Freedom’ssquadronsinclude the “Jolly Rogers”ofVFA-103,the “Rampag-
ers”ofVFA-83, the “Wildcats” of VFA-131, the“Gunslingers”ofVFA-105,the“Patriots” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ)140, the“SunKings” of Airborne Command and ControlSquadron(VAW)116,the“Nightdippers” of HelicopterSea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, the“Grandmasters”ofHelicopter Maritime StrikeSquadron (HSM) 46,and Detachment Oneofthe “MightyBison”of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM)40.
CSG-10iscurrentlycomposedofCVW-7, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USSMason (DDG87), multiple destroyers from Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22, and its flagship,the NimitzclassaircraftcarrierUSSGeorgeH.W.Bush (CVN77).
Mission: Lifesaver – Fitness as a foundation to readiness
ASailorgripstheedgeofastretcherasthe ship shifts beneath them, boots pounding across the deck while intercom updates cut throughthenoise Everymovementisdeliberate In these moments, outcomes depend notjustonmedicalknowledge,butonphysicalreadiness.Whenthecallcomes,thereis nopause,onlyexecution.
AcrosstheFleet,scenarioslikethisarenot hypothetical.Theyareexpected,inevitable For Naval Medical Forces Atlantic, physical fitness is not a personal goal It is a requirementthatdirectlyimpactsoperationalreadiness survivability andtheabilitytodeliver expeditionarymedicalcareincontestedand austereenvironments
Corpsmen are expected to move with speed, carry weight, and sustain performance under pressure. Whether operating aboardships,supportingMarinesinthefield, or responding during mass casualty events, physical conditioning directly affects how quicklyandeffectivelycarecanbedelivered.
“Maintaining a high level of physical fitness is vital for operational and medical readiness,”saidHospitalCorpsman1stClass MorganCritchfield,acommandfitnessleader (CFL) and general duty corpsman assigned toNavalMedicalForcesAtlantic(NMFL) “If you’re out of shape, you can’t perform well. You’remorelikelytogethurtornotbeafull memberoftheteamwhichputsthemission atrisk.
Thatgapinperformancehasconsequences beyond the individual. It affects timelines increases risk, and places additional strain onalreadylimitedresourcesinhigh-demand environments
“Physical fitness puts you in a position to beanassetinsteadofaliability,”saidHospital Corpsman 3rd Class Paul Cormier, an assistantCFLandgeneraldutycorpsmanassigned toNMFL.“Victorylovespreparation.Ifyou prepare yourself for the worst and you’re consistentwithit,youdon’thavetohopefor the best because the best outcome will be handedtoyou.”
Forexpeditionarymedicine preparationis nottheoretical.Itisbuiltthroughrepetition, conditioning, and consistency long before deployment Strength,endurance,andmobilityarenotseparatefrommedicalcapability. Theyarepartofit.
Consistenttrainingalsoreducestheriskof injuryandmedicaldisqualification.Physical readiness supports long-term deployability bystrengtheningthebodyagainstthecumulative demands of service Routine fitness assessments further reinforce this by identifyingnegativetrendsearly,allowinginterventionbeforereadinessisdegraded.
ABOVE: PORTSMOUTH, Va (Feb 27, 2026) Sailors assigned to Naval Medical Forces Atlantic (NMFL) row for cardio during command-sponsored physical training on board Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads - Portsmouth Annex, Feb. 27 2026 During the training Sailors conducted multiple exercises during a circuit style series of events NMFL leads readiness from the inside out—building physically ready Sailors so Navy Medicine can deliver medically ready forces that keep the fleet ready for the fight. RIGHT: Cmdr Samuel Woodson, assigned to NMFL pulls a weighted bag during command-sponsored physical training (U.S.NAVYPHOTOS BYMASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST2ND CLASS LEVI DECKER)
“You can have countless ideas about the physique you want or the goals you hope to achieveinyourtraining—butwithoutaction, they remain nothing more than ideas,” said Cormier.“Juststartandstayconsistent.There is no single starting point and no finish line Themoreyouoverthinkit,themoreitholds youback.”
Physicalreadinessalsosupportscognitive performanceunderstress Inhigh-pressure environments,fatiguecanslowreactiontime, reduceclarity,andimpactdecision-making Conditioning the body helps stabilize those effects allowing Sailors to think clearly and actdecisivelywhenitmattersmost.
“You’renotgoingtoperformyourjobeffectively if you’re not mentally and physically ready,”saidCritchfield “Itdoesn’thavetobe complicated.Buildsimplehabits,stayconsistent,andmakeitpartofyourroutinesoyou canshowupreadytodoyourjob.”
That expectation reflects a broader standard across Naval Medical Forces Atlantic. Readinessisnotsituational.Itiscontinuous It is built daily through disciplined training andreinforcedthroughleadership,accountability andculture.
PhilosopherSocratesoncewrote,“Noone has the right to be an amateur in the matter of physical training.” For today’s force, that principlealignsdirectlywithmissionrequirements Physicalpreparednessisnotoptional. It is tied to the ability to respond, to endure, and to deliver care when conditions are at theirworst.
AsNavalMedicalForcesAtlanticcontinues tosupportfleetandexpeditionaryoperations physical readiness remains a foundational componentofmissioncapability Theability tomove tolift,tothink,andtoactunderpressure determines not just individual performance, but the effectiveness of the entire team.
“Yourpersonalfitnessdirectlyaffectsthe
mission,” said Critchfield. “If you take care of yourself you’re taking care of your team andthejob.” Whenthemomentcomes,thereisnotime tobuildreadiness Itmustalreadybethere
EOD Mobile Unit 12 welcomes new Commander
By Lt Martin Carey
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit TWELVE (EODMU-12) held a change of command ceremonyatJointExpeditionaryBaseLittle Creek-FortStoryonMarch26,2026,where Cmdr Michael Grow relieved Cmdr Jack Damonascommandingofficer The ceremony marks a significant milestonefortheunit,whichplaysacriticalrole inthenation’sdefensebyclearingexplosive hazards enablingaccesstodeniedareas and buildingwarfightingreadiness Thechangeof command is a time-honored naval tradition thatrepresentstheformaltransferofauthorityandresponsibilityforacommand.
Damon, the outgoing commanding officer, expressed his deep pride in leading the menandwomenofEODMU-12 “Ingeneral, EODisasmallcommunitywheremostofus knoweachother,andIknewIwascomingto aunitwithmanycredibleteammatesIcould rely on. This tour required our team to lead through hardships. You never hesitated to take on the additional work, to break away fromstatusquo Youneverquitandyounever stoppedsolvingtheproblems.”Hecontinued, “CDR Mike Grow, you have had a positive impact on this command long before today. There is no one else I would prefer to turn overwith.
Bothcommandersdeliveredremarksthat echoedtheDepartmentoftheNavy’semphasisontheimportanceofitspeopleandbuildingamorelethalandreadyforce “Iamhumbledandexcitedfortheopportunity to lead this exceptional team,” said Grow “TheSailorsofEODMU-12areamong themosthighlyskilledanddedicatedinthe Navy, and I am committed to ensuring they have the resources and support they need tocontinuetoexcel.Together,wewillbuild upon the unit’s proud history and continue toenhanceourwarfightingreadinesstomeet anychallenge.” Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile
Unit12,establishedin2008,isasubordinate command of Explosive Ordnance Disposal GroupTWO. Navy EOD technicians are an elite force of warriors who perform a wide range of missions, including rendering safe all types ofordnance,fromconventionaltoimprovised
EODMU-12 has a distinguished history of supporting operations around the world, contributing to everything from mine
countermeasures to special operations missions Formoreinformation,visithttps://www necc.usff.navy.mil/eod/
Navy to commission submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798)
Courtesy Story NAVY.MIL
BOSTON TheNavywillcommissionthe 25thVirginia-classfast-attacksubmarine,the futureUSSMassachusetts(SSN798),during a10a.m.EDTceremonySaturday,March28, atBostonHarbor
The Honorable David Denton, General Counsel of the Navy, will deliver the ceremony’sprincipaladdress.Additionalspeakers are set to include Massachusetts Gov MauraHealey;Adm.WilliamHouston,director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program; the Honorable Seth Moulton, U.S. Representative from Massachusetts; and Kari Wilkinson,president,NewportNewsShipbuilding
The submarine’s sponsor is Sheryl Sandberg, co-founder of Sandberg Bernthal
VenturePartners Inkeepingwithlong-standingNavytradition,shewillgivethecrewthe orderto“manourshipandbringhertolife.” Withthehoistingofthecolorsandcommissionpennant,AdmiralHoustonwillformally placetheshipinactiveservice SSN 798 is the eighth vessel named for thestateofMassachusetts withthefirsttwo datingbacktoearly1790sasshipsoftheU.S RevenueCutterService,theprecursortothe CoastGuard.ThelastshipnamedMassachusettswasaSouthDakota-classfastbattleship thatcommissionedin1942andparticipated innearlyeverymajorPacificcampaignfrom 1943to1945 Massachusetts(BB59)received 11 battle stars for her World War II service Thebattleshipwasdecommissionedin1947 andisnowpreservedinFallRiver,Mass.,as a museum and memorial to those who gave
theirlivesinWorldWarII.
Massachusetts (SSN 798) is the seventh Block IV Virginia-class submarine built underateamingagreementbetweenGeneral Dynamics Electric Boat and HII-Newport News Shipbuilding The submarine was christenedattheNNSshipyardinNewport News Virginia onMay6,2023 Itisthe12th Virginia-classsubmarinedeliveredbyNNS.
As it joins the fleet, Massachusetts (SSN 798) brings significant warfighting capability,underscoringtheNation’sasymmetrical advantage at sea. Virginia-class fast attack submarines have enhanced stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that enable them to meettheNavy’smulti-missionrequirements
Each Virginia-class submarine is 7,800tonsand377feetinlengthandhasabeamof
34feet Itisdesignedwithareactorplantthat willnotrequirerefuelingduringtheplanned lifeoftheship reducinglifecyclecostswhile increasingunderwaytime ThecommissioningoftheUSSMassachusetts underscores the Navy’s commitment tobuildingAmerica’sGoldenFleet For250 years American naval power has projected strengthglobally Thatmissioncontinues andintensifies Weoperateforward24/7,365 daysayear Thisoperationaltempodemands continuous capability delivery, and the GoldenFleetisouranswer
The commissioning ceremony will be streamedliveat:https://www.dvidshub.net/ webcast/37343.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va Cmdr Mike Grow assumed command of
Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit TWELVE (EODMU-12) from Cmdr
Leaders say nuclear forces, space domain paramount to national security
By David Vergun PENTAGON NEWS
Protecting America’s space systems is essential for national security because so many military capabilities rely on them including precision navigation, global communications, missile warning and real-time intelligence, said Space Force
Gen. Stephen N. Whiting commander of U.S Space Command, who testified today in Washington before the Senate Armed ServicesCommittee
Space systems were critical to mission success in recent operations, including Midnight Hammer, Absolute Resolve and currentlyEpicFury,hesaid.
“Should an adversary degrade or destroy ourspacecapabilities,thejointforce’sability to fight as it is sized and designed would be immediatelyandmateriallyimpacted,”Whitingsaid,addingthatopponentsaremovingat analarmingpace developinganddeploying capabilitiestodenytheWarDepartmentthe useofspace
China’s space presence has grown exponentially, operating over 1,300 active satellites a 667% increase since 2015 including morethan510intelligence,surveillanceand reconnaissancesatellites
They are using these capabilities to integratemilitary,space-enabledeffectsandfielding weapons designed to outmaneuver and destroyU.S.satellites,hesaid.
Russiahascapabilitiesdesignedtodisrupt U.S. space assets “including the potential placement of a nuclear weapon [in] orbit thesinglegreatestthreattoourspacearchitecture,” Whiting said. “Armed conflict in spaceisnotinevitable,butshoulddeterrence fail, the integrated space power of our team willprovideadecisiveadvantage.”
The general listed his top funding prioritiesforfiscalyear2027 whichincludefielding integrated space fires, active protection of satellites, enhancing battlespace awareness, building an integrated command and controlsystem,andprovidingsufficientcyber
notseekingoutconfrontation,butdeterring strategicattackandunderpinningallDepartmentofWaroperationalplans,”theadmiral said. The challenge is to deter great power conflict and manage the complexities of deterring multiple nuclear competitors simultaneously, all while adapting to rapid technological change and advancements, Correllsaid.
Some of those challenges include cyber threats, counter-U.S. space capabilities, a contested electromagnetic spectrum novel enemy missile systems and supply chain issues
“AswebringtheB-21[Raider]bomber the Columbia-class submarines and the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile system online, we will ensure the credibility of our deterrencefordecadestocome,”hesaid.
Navy Adm. Richard A. Correll, commander of U.S. Strategic Command, testifies before the Senate Armed Services Committee in Washington, March 26 2026 (PHOTO CREDIT: DOWSCREENSHOT)
YORKTOWN,Va Asafighttonightforce, the Marine Corps must maintain constant readiness NothingembodiesMarineCorps readinessmorethanathree-shipAmphibious Ready Group / Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU)withanembarkedMarineAir Ground Task Force (MAGTF). Capable of a wide array of missions, a forward-deployed ARG/MEUreliesonitsaccessandplacement to provide a combatant commander with a multitude of options that span the spectrum of conflict. In order to sustain these forward-deployed capabilities self-sufficiency is vital to the readiness of an ARG/ MEU Marines at Marine Forces Command are seeking creative training solutions to sustain self-sufficiency at sea, reinforcing anARG/MEU’spersistentpresence
Recently,theUnitedStatesMarineCorps and Coast Guard celebrated a historical achievement as two Marines graduated the U.S. Coast Guard’s (USCG) Miniature and Micro-Miniature (2M) Electronic Repair CourseheldatCoastGuardTrainingCenter, Yorktown,Virginia.
U.S. Marine Corps Corporals Timothy Cowden, ground electronics transmission systems maintainer, Marine Corps Security ForceRegiment,andQuenlynShaver,ground electronicssystemsrepairer,2dAmphibious Assault Battalion, attended the U.S. Coast Guard’s advanced electronics repair course where they gained advanced expertise of electronicmaintenancetoextendequipment longevityatseaandreducerelianceonexternalrepairfacilities
“ImagineafuturewhereadeployedMEU hasaccesstoasharedinventoryofcommon repair components aboard ship,” said Chief WarrantOfficer2StevenBernstein,ground equipment and readiness manager, Marine Forces Command. “That’s the goal: a seamless,at-seasustainmentecosystem.”
For decades advanced electronics repair for an embarked MEU was confined to the Combat Logistics Battalion’s (CLB) maintenance shop, typically located on a single amphibious ship If a critical system failed on one of the other two ships in the ARG, gettingitrepairedwasasignificantlogistical challenge Marineswouldhavetotransport unserviceableequipmenttoanintermediate or depot-level facility for repair when small electroniccomponentsfail.
ThroughcompletionofthisrigoroustrainingbytheU.S.CoastGuard,Marinesreceived a Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) certification.TheNUWCcertificationisthe joint-servicestandardforelectronicsrepair
embodies Marine Corps readiness more than a three-ship Amphibious
/ Marine Expeditionary Unit (ARG/MEU) with an embarked Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF). Capable of a wide array of missions, a forward-deployed
Forces
reinforcing
FORCES NORTHERN COMMAND)
“It’s a night-and-day difference for a MEU,” said Bernstein. “Right now, if a key radiosystemorvehiclecomponentfails they mighthavetowaitweeksforareplacement. A MEU with a certified 2M technician can potentiallyresolvethatissueinhours.”
ThetwoMarinesarethefirsttoattendthe course,butleadershipintheelectronicmaintenance community looks forward to sendingmoreMarines Havingthisjoint-certified training Marinescanboardanyamphibious shipandsustainthereadinessofmissioncriticalequipment.AccordingtoBernstein,when weallspeakacommonlanguageofmaintenance,wecancreateatrulyintegratedmaintenancecapability therebymakingtheentire naval force more resilient. “Because of the certification, I was the first Marine authorized to integrate into the 2M lab aboard a naval ship and even assist them with their repairs,”saidCpl.Shaver.“Itwasn’tjustabout using their space; it was about being part of theirteam.Backatmyunit,thisskillsavesus weeks or months of waiting for depot-level support, but out here, it means we can keep themissiongoing.”
In addition to strengthening the Marine Corps’abilitytoadapt,innovate,andremain effectiveinanincreasinglytechnology-driven battlespace, having this training will likely reduceexpensesforrepairs “Whenyoulook at the Navy’s 2M program, which uses the same joint standard we’re advocating for, they’vedocumentedover$840millionincost avoidanceovera24-yearperiod, explained Bernstein. “That number represents thousandsofpiecesofgearthatwerefixedatthe sourceinsteadofbeingshippedaway.”
The independence brought through the completion of this course supports Marine CorpsForceDesignbyenhancingtheability toaccomplishmissionswithlimitedexternal dependence “This training creates technicianswhocansustaintheforce‘fromwithin’, rightatthetacticaledge,”statedBernstein.“It reducesourlogisticalsignatureandempowers a small, distributed unit to maintain its ownequipmentinacontestedenvironment. ThisisForceDesigninaction.”
The graduation of two Marines from the CoastGuard’s2MElectronicRepairCourse represents more than a historic first—it underscores the Marine Corps’ commitment to Force Design modernization. By developing structured, at-sea electronic repair capabilities through interservice training, the Marine Corps increases expeditionary sustainment, reduces reliance on externalsupport,andenhancesreadinessin contestedmaritimeenvironments Thismilestonedemonstrateshowintegratedpartnerships and technical self-sufficiency directly supportForceDesignobjectives bringingthe MarineCorpsclosertoafutureofdistributed, resilient,andlethalnavaloperations As a fight tonight force, the Marine Corps must maintain
Service members have options leading up to Tax Day
By C.Todd Lopez PENTAGON NEWS
WithTaxDay,April15,quicklyapproaching service members have options for help filing their 2025 taxes, including assistance withnavigatingchangestotaxrules,suchas those enacted as part of last year’s One Big BeautifulBillAct.
Firstoff saidSusanE.Mitchell,executive director of the Armed Forces Tax Council, service members can file their taxes late, if needed,duetodeploymentsorotherissues.
“Therearelong-standingtaxfilingextensionsthatapplyjusttoservicemembers,”she said “IftheyarestationedoutsidetheUnited StatesandPuertoRico,theygetanautomatic two-monthextensiontoJune15.”
Thatextensionmeansnotonlyfilingtwo months later but also paying any due taxes twomonthslater
Beyond that, Mitchell said, all service members nomatterwheretheyarestationed canaskforanadditionalextensiontoOct.15
However, that extension is only for filing any tax due still needs to be paid on time to avoidlatefilingpenalties
“And then of course, for anyone who’s deployed to a combat zone, the deadline for filingandpayingtaxesisgenerallyextended for the period of their service in the combat zone,plus180days,”shesaid.
Some of the changes service members mightencounterthisyearincludeanincrease inthestandarddeductionforsingle,married andheadofhouseholdfilersandanincrease inthecontributionlimitsfor401(k)plans
If family members work in the civilian economy, from 2025 through 2028, taxpayers may deduct tips and overtime pay. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act also changed the reportingthreshold,increasingitto$20,000 ingrosspaymentsand200ormoretransactions annually on payment apps for the sale ofgoodsandservices
If they’re able, service members can prepare their own taxes using resources exclusively from the Internal Revenue Service ButMitchellsaidMilitaryOneSource also provides special tax preparation software,MilTax,forservicemembers
“The great thing about the MilTax program,iftheydecidetodoitontheirown, is that the service members also have availabletothemtaxconsultantsbyphone24/7if theyhavequestionswhenthey’recompleting
theirtaxreturns,”shesaid
Also, on some installations, there are volunteerincometaxassistancesiteswhere servicememberscangetin-persontaxpreparationassistance Mitchellcautionedservicememberstobe onthelookoutforunethicaltaxpreparation services
“There are a lot of scams out there, she said.Scammersoftentargetpeoplebyimpersonating the IRS to try to get them to share personal information, by phone, text and email.
“It’s important to know that the IRS doesn’t initiate contact with taxpayers in theseways,”sheadded.
Mitchell recommends that if service membershavetheirtaxespreparedoffbase
andaredueataxrefund,theywaittoreceive thatrefundratherthantakearefundanticipationloanfromtheirtaxpreparer because thefeescanbehigh.
“Generally, the IRS aims to get a refund back to you within 20 days,” she said. “And ifservicememberscanjustwaitforthose20 days and not take that loan, they’ll get their entirerefundbackinsteadofhavingtopaya feeoutoftherefund.”
Also undertheOneBigBeautifulBillAct, starting July 5, parents of children under 18 with a Social Security number can open an investment account called a “Trump Account”intheirchild’sname
“The great thing about these accounts is thatparentsandemployers,andrelativesof the child, can contribute up to $5,000 per
year to the account until that child reaches theageof18,”shesaid Thegovernmentwill also deposit an initial $1,000 into accounts foreligiblenewborns
“Theseareassetsthatareallowedtogrow tax-free,althoughrecipientshavetopaytaxes onthegainswhenthemoneyiswithdrawn,” Mitchell said. “And after the child turns 18, the account is generally treated as a traditional [individual retirement account] and it’s subject to the same rules as other traditionalIRAs.”
The program covers children born from 2025 to 2028 For more information, visit trumpaccounts.gov.
shop conducting repairs on Marine Corps and Navy equipment within Navy maintenanceshops
Containing the chaos: Fort Belvoir’s active shooter exercise sharpens skills
By Paul Lara FORT BELVOIR PUBLIC AFFAIRS
AttheMissileDefenseAgency(MDA)on FortBelvoiraquietmorningwaspunctuated withsoundsofsimulatedgunfire becoming “thatday”thateveryteamplansfor,asphone calls flooded the Emergency CommunicationsCenterandMDAworkersfledthebuildinginalldirections
This —fortunately was choreographed chaosbythegarrison’sEmergencyManagement team, and a group of volunteers from TeamRubiconandCommunityEmergency Response Team (CERT). Every move was closely observed by subject matter experts from Installation Management Command (IMCOM),aspartofthegarrison’striennial full-scaleexercise
OncetheGiantVoicesystemblared“Exercise exercise exercise” across the sunny paradefield,garrisonemployeesallfocused on the most critical response to any such crisis: Contain the incident Shorten the duration Speedtherecovery FortBelvoirPoliceplayedtheleadrolein containing the incident. Police cars raced to the Missile Defense Agency, arriving just four minutes after ECC dispatched the call. Officersimmediatelyestablishedanincident
commandpostandrushedinsidetowardthe soundofgunfire,preparedtoapplydecisive lethalitytoneutralizethethreat.Anunusual aspect of this exercise was the involvement ofMDA,oneofthemanykeydefenseorganizationsheadquarteredonFortBelvoir First respondersrushingintoasecurefacilitylike thisrequiredthoroughplanningwithMDA’s security officer, garrison security and how tomanageaccessbyescortingfirstresponders amid chaos. As Giant Voice and garrison Public Affairs notionally announced an installation-wide lockdown, Fort Belvoir’s DirectorateofPlans,Training,Mobilization& Security(DPTMS),nowstandingupitsOperations Center pivoted to Microsoft Teams channelstounifycommunications,asmore than15GOCrepresentativesweresheltering inplaceintheirrespectiveoffices
After30minutesofsearchingthebuilding, police radioed the ECC that the threat was neutralized.JeromeDeniz,whocoordinated the Emergency Management aspects of the exercise noted that this training was evaluatednotonapass/failbasis,butonhowwell itfollowedwrittenplans.
“The success of an exercise like this isn’t measuredinwinsorlosses;it’smeasuredin lessonslearned,”Denizsaid.Hehadinvested muchofhisplanninginemulatingreal-world
chaosanduncertainty
By simulating a real-world crisis, Deniz hoped to test and validate the garrison’s emergencyresponseplans,ensuringthatfirst responderscanreactswiftlyandeffectivelyto neutralizethreatswhileensuringthesafety and security of Soldiers, their Families and Armycivilians akeyaspectofinstallation readiness
At its most fundamental level, an armed attackerexerciseisahigh-stressdrillinsmallunit tactics and immediate action Many of the skills required to respond to an active shooteraretheverysameskillsawarfighter needstodemonstratelethalityanddominate inacombatzone
At the garrison after action meeting, Jay Condrey, Director, IMCOM Installation Directorate- Sustainment (ID-S) urged the team to “Continue to put energy on those things we did well and integrate your mission partners at every opportunity,” Condreysaid “Workonthemethodological plantogetbettereveryday practicemakes permanent. Col.DavidStewart,FortBelvoirGarrison Commander, reinforced this perspective, highlightingtheconnectionbetweenrealistictrainingandthestrengthoftheresponse team
“In a crisis you sink to the level of your training,whichiswhywemakeitasrealistic aspossible WhatIwitnessedtodaywasthe strength of our ‘Team of Teams.’ This hard training builds trust and proves we have a disciplined,integratedforcereadytoprotect ourcommunity,”Stewartsaid. Denizconcurred,notingthathigh-stakes, high-stress activities reveal shortcomings thatacasualtabletopdiscussioncannotilluminate
“Our goal was to deliberately stress our installation’semergencyresponseandrecovery capabilities, and, in that, it was an absolutemissionsuccess,”Denizsaid.“Weputour systems ourprocesses andourpeopletothe testalongsideouron-andoff-postpartners The exercise provided us with invaluable informationonhowwecanbetterintegrate across all directorates and with our entire responsecommunity Wenowhaveabetter understandingofourstrengthsandafocused pathtogetevenbetter”
It is in the relentless pursuit of improvement, the analysis of what went wrong and theacknowledgmentofwhatcouldbedone better, that we bolster our readiness In the faceoftragedy,theonlyvictorythatmatters isthediligentworkofgettingbetter oneexerciseatatime
IMCOM observers and Fort Belvoir first responders huddle for a hot wash at the Missile Defense Agency, Feb. 26 following a chaotic but revealing armed attacker exercise. The exercise pressure-tested procedures throughout the garrison
worst day might occur. (PHOTO BYPAULLARA,FORTBELVOIR PUBLICAFFAIRS)
Denise, adopted 17-year-oldAmina
‘VIBRANT’DISPLAY: ONR, NIWC PACIFIC HOST VIRTUAL BRIDGE TRAINING EXERCISE
By Warren Duffie
OFFICE OF NAVAL RESEARCH
Armed with equipment like virtual-reality goggles and handheld controllers, the Sailorstestedtheirskillsguidingasimulated destroyerintovariousnavalports
Duringtheexercise,theycreatedmultiple challengingconditionssuchasbadweather and poor light, and designed hazards that included oil rigs, shoals, islands and other vessels
“Thislearningsystemexceededmyexpectations,” said one Sailor “As a visual learner who likes to see and touch an environment beforeheadingintoit,Ifeelthissystemgives that[ship’sbridge]experience.”
TheOfficeofNavalResearchGlobal(ONR Global) TechSolutions and Naval InformationWarfareCenter(NIWC)Pacificrecently hosted a virtual navigation training demonstration showcasing the Virtual Bridge and NauticalTrainer(VIBRaNT).
The event involved Sailors from Afloat TrainingGroupAtlanticinNorfolk,Virginia, andtheaircraftcarrierUSSTheodoreRoosevelt(CVN71),whichwaslocatedpiersideat NavalAirStationNorthIslandinSanDiego
California
Sailorsatbothlocationswereabletointeract and practice in a virtual setting, mirroringthebridgeofaguided-missiledestroyer Participantsexperiencedfirsthandhowthe TechSolutions-sponsoredVIBRaNTsystem improves the navigation and seamanship skillsofbridgewatchteams,allowingthemto practicerulesoftheroad,rehearsemissions and maintain proficiency without visiting a shore-basedtrainingcenter
“Demonstrating VIBRaNT with personnel separated by a continent but together in the same virtual environment showed thatteamsdispersedgeographicallycanstill cometogethervirtuallytotrainonthesame bridgeatthesametimetopracticetheirship handling and navigation,” said ONR Global TechSolutionsDirectorJasonPayne “Italso highlightedhowinstructorsdon’thavetobe inthesamelocation,sotheycanteachfrom anywhere.”
VIBRaNT is a portable self-contained training system. It employs commercially availableextended-realityhardware such aslaptops,headsets,handheldcontrollersand wireless routers and industry-developed software to create a realistic virtual bridge
Navy Bloodborne Infection Management Center:
Ensuring force readiness through bloodborne pathogen screening across the Fleet and Fleet Marine Force
By Desmond Martin NAVY AND MARINE CORPS FORCE
HEALTH PROTECTION COMMAND
TheNavyBloodborneInfectionManagement Center (NBIMC), a subordinate elementoftheNavyandMarineCorpsForce HealthProtectionCommand(NMCFHPC), manages the bloodborne pathogen screeningprogramfortheDepartmentoftheNavy (DoN), ensuring force-wide testing and managementofHIV,HepatitisB,andHepatitisC.
NBIMC evolved out of the U.S. military’s response to the HIV epidemic, when mandatory force-wide HIV testing was initiated, and specialized HIV clinics were stood-up to provide multidisciplinary care toservicemembers Priortoitsformalestablishment, NBIMC’s functions fell under the Navy’s central HIV Program, overseen by the Navy Environmental Health Center In 2013 NBIMC became a formal unit under the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health
Center(nowtheNMCFHPC),servingasan integrated HIV information management systemfortheDoN Today, NBIMC’s mission has expanded to include management of Hepatitis B and HepatitisC,inadditiontoHIV Theprogram markedly enhances the readiness of Navy andMarineCorpsforcesbydetectingthese infectionsearlyandsecuringrapidtreatment for impacted Sailors and Marines getting thembackinthefightquicklyandprotecting wartimebloodsupplies Throughoversightof testingdelivery reporting andcompliance as wellaspolicydevelopmentandcoordination acrosstheDoNandMilitaryHealthSystem, NBIMCsignificantlyimpactsthereadiness, assignability,anddeployabilityofSailorsand Marinesworldwide AsanexampleofNBIMC’simpact,inlate 2023 the command detected disruption to HIVscreeningofServicemembersassigned to commands located in areas of the United
environment.
“We can bring this onboard as a mechanism to have better access for training, increasingtheavailabilitytotrainandprovidingbettersituationalawareness,”saidNIWC PACAdvancedVisualizationsStrategyLead Amelia Kracinovich. “An event like this providesanexcellentopportunitytodiscuss theroleofimmersivetraininginmaintaining navalreadinessandlethality.”
VIBRaNT immerses naval warfighters in at-sea operational environments via virtual scenarios It offers an ideal way for bridge crews to maintain their proficiency inavirtualsettingwhentheshipisnotatsea or when they need to practice unfamiliar ship-driving scenarios The system also is usefulinevaluatinghowwarfightersperform instressfulsituations
Lt ShamaalFletcher,aSailorstationedat ElPasoMilitaryEntranceProcessingStation, firstformedtheideaofVIBRaNTtwoyears ago whilehewaspartofbridgewatchteams HewantedhisshipmatesandSailorsentering theNavytohavetheabilitytotrainwhere,and when,theyneededit.
While conducting online research, he foundtheONRGlobalTechSolutionswebsite
andsubmittedhisidea.TechSolutionssponsorsthedevelopmentofrapidprototypesolutions based on direct requests from Sailors andMarines,usuallywithin12months TechSolutionscontactedFletchershortly thereafter and agreed to help develop the VIBRaNTtool. Fletcher worked closely with TechSolutionsandNIWCPacifictodesignVIBRaNT, which is currently undergoing testing and demonstration.
According to Payne, the recent training demo was a success, where Sailors praised VIBRaNT’sdesignandeaseofuse
“Many of them asked if scenarios could be created for various naval ports worldwideaswellasdifferenttypesofvessels,not justdestroyers,”saidPayne “Theanswerto thatisyes.VIBRaNTtrulyrepresentsavaluableinvestmentinwarfightingcompetency through live, virtual and constructive training.”
LearnmoreabouthowONRGlobalTechSolutions turns Sailor ideas into new technology
Warren Duffie Jr is a contractor for ONR Corporate Strategic Communications
U.S. Navy Quartermaster 3rd Class Zinnia Bank participates in a virtual navigation demonstration using Virtual Bridge and Nautical Trainer (VIBRaNT) held in the pilot house of the
Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71),Jan. 8, 2026 Theodore Roosevelt the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 9, is currently pierside at Naval Air Station North Island in its homeport of San Diego (U.S.NAVYPHOTO
The ship’santicipated departurecomes after months of training,maintenance,and certification events as part of the George H. W.BushCarrierStrikeGroup
“The Donald Cook crew embodies their motto ‘FaithWithout Fear’,”emphasized Capt.JohnBenfield,commodoreofDestroyer Squadron22.“Theyaretrained,prepared,and readytodeploy.”
Donald Cook, stationedinMayport,Fla, with acrewofapproximately 300Sailors, is amulti-mission guided-missile destroyer with air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, navalsurfacefiresupport,andsurfacewarfare capability
“This deployment reflects months of relentlesstrainingandpreparationbyatruly exceptional crew,” said Cmdr.Sean Hanley, commanding officer of USSDonald Cook. “Weare deeply gratefultoour families and theMayportcommunityfortheircontinued supportasweheadouttosea.”
USSDonald Cook’skeel waslaidonJuly 9, 1996,atBath Iron WorksinBath, Maine. Theshipisthe25thDestroyeroftheArleigh Burkeclass.Shewaslaunchedandchristened
onMay3,1997.TheshipisnamedafterMarine ColonelDonald G. Cook, aPrisonerofWar duringtheVietnamWarandrecipientofthe MedalofHonor U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in responsetothechangingglobalsecurityenvironment, develops and employs maritime readyforces to fight Donald Cook multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arcticinorder toensureaccess,deteraggressionanddefend U.S.,allied,andpartnerinterests FormoreU.S.2nd Fleet news and photos, visit facebook.com/US2ndFleet, https:// www.c2f.usff.navy.mil/, X- @US2ndFleet, andhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/ commander-u-s-2nd-fleet.
INFECTION MANAGEMENT
from Page B1
StatesnotservedbyMilitaryTreatmentFacilitiesand clinics. As testingtransitionedtoa newcontractvendor, many collected blood specimensweresubmittedtothelaboratory without accurate and newly required electronic orders,resulting in sample rejection rates of nearly 25 percent. NBIMC rapidly identifiedthesystemicfailureandconvened partnersacrossthe Military Departments,
NAVALSTATION MAYPORT, Fla (March 25, 2026)Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyerUSS Donald Cook (DDG 75) departsNaval Station Mayporttobegin operations in support of itsscheduled deployment. (U.S.NAVYPHOTOS BYCHIEFMASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTCARLOS M.VAZQUEZ II)
Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family SupportCenters(FFSC) programs andservices are designedtohelp youmake the mostofyour military experience, andthey’re all available to youatnocost.
Defense Health Agency,and industry to investigatethefailureandrepairtheprocess NBIMC’s rapid action and coordination quicklyreducedspecimenrejectionratesto 1-2percent,preventedrepeatblooddrawsfor more than 1,700 Service members,and ultimately bolsteredthe readinessand mission ofthosecommands. Today, NBIMC continues to support the health and readiness of the almost600,000 active-dutyandreserveSailorsandMarines servingacrosstheglobe,andwillplayavital roleintheDoN’sabilitytoprojectpowerand protecttheUnitedStatesanditsinterestswell intothefuture.
TheNMCFHPCenterpriseplaysacritical role in protecting the health and readiness of Department of the Navy andDepartmentofWarforces.Throughexpeditionary platforms such as the ForwardDeployable PreventiveMedicineUnits,expertconsultationtocommandersandmedicalleaders,and advancedtestingandepidemiologiccapabilities,ourpersonnelproviderapid,flexible,and scalable health protection across the globe, ensuringoperational forces remain medically readyand mission capable —anytime, anywhere.
brated a significant milestone in the construction of the new Marine Bachelor Enlisted Quarters and Support Facility at Marine Barracks Washington annex in Washington D.C. with a toppingoutceremonyheldMarch25
Project stakeholders gathered to commemorate the placement of the final steel beam, marking the completionofthesuperstructure,along-standingconstructuretraditionsymbolizing progressandteamwork.
“As we celebrate this achievement, let’s recognize the skill and effort of every construction worker, architect, engineer and all other professionals involved,” said NAVFAC Washington Commanding Officer Capt Daniel Schmitt. “Your work will provide a comfortable and supportive home for ourMarinesforyearstocome”
The $86 million project is the flagshipfortheCommandantoftheMarine Corps’ new barracks initiative and will serve as the benchmark for new barracksbeingconstructedforMarines worldwide
NAVFAC Washington is overseeing the design and construction of the six-story,steel-framefacility,whichwill include 125 rooms for unaccompanied enlistedMarines aswellasadininghall, fitnesscenter,armoryandnoncommissionedofficers’club.NAVFACWashingtonisalsoproudlyservingasDesignerof RecordforArchitecture,InteriorDesign andFireProtectionwithWileyWilson providingotherengineeringservices
“This state-of-the-art facility will significantly enhance the quality of life and support mission readiness for Marines in the Washington D.C. area,” saidGrahamRuggie,NAVFACWashingtonArchitecturalBranchHead
NAVFAC Washington awarded the firm-fixed-price contract to Clark Construction and is scheduled to be completedinFebruary2028.
Commanding O
Capt. Daniel Schmitt signs the final steel beam before it is hoisted into place during the topping out ceremony for the new Marine Bachelor Enlisted Quarters and Support Facility at Marine Barracks Washington annex in Washington D.C held March 25. (PHOTO BYREGINA ADAMS,NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS COMMAND WASHINGTON)
NMRC advances bacteriophage therapy to phase 3 clinical trial
By Aleece Williams NAVAL MEDICAL RESEARCH COMMAND
SILVER SPRING, Md Naval Medical ResearchCommand(NMRC),inpartnership withArmataPharmaceuticals,hascompleted a phase 2 clinical trial on a Staphylococcus aureus(StaphA)bacteriophagetherapy.
NMRC and Armata combined efforts for thedevelopmentofabacteriophagetherapy designedtoprovideprotectionagainstMDR bacterial infections Following the successful completion of these trials, researchers anticipate it will arm warfighters with a readily available, faster acting treatment, as comparedtotraditionalantibiotics.
“Thiscollaborationacceleratesthedevelopment of innovative medical treatments withmilitaryapplicationsthatrequirecutting edge medical research,” explained Thomas Dunn, NMRC’s acting program manager for Naval Advanced Medical Development. “Burdensharingthedevelopmentofinnovativeantimicrobialsthatcanbeusedtominimizetheimpactofsuchinfections requires industrial partner capabilities (especially in biological manufacture) such as those providedbyArmataPharmaceuticals.” Phase3oftheclinicaltrialsisprojectedto last 3-4 years with the trial projected to be completedbeforeorduringfiscalyear2030
Providing warfighters with this alternative to traditional antibiotics is intended to minimize lost duty days and increase force readiness,byprovidingamoreeffective,faster-actingsolutiontoMDRbacteremiacaused by Staph A, including methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S.aureus(MRSA)strains
NMRCandWalterReedArmyInstituteof Researchmemberscontributedsharedefforts towardsbacteriophageresearchwhendevelopingthisbacteriophagetherapy.Throughout Phase 3, NMRC will provide technical oversightandcontinuecontributingfunding ThispartnershipallowsArmatatomaintainthelicensureofthetherapywhileNMRC,
SILVER SPRING, Md (March 18, 2026) The Daniel K. Inouye building at Forest Glen Annex, headquarters for Naval Medical Research Command (NMRC). NMRC, headquarters of Navy Medicine Research & Development, is engaged in a broad spectrum of activity from basic science in the laboratory to field studies in austere and remote areas of the world to investigations in operational environments. In support of Navy Marine Corps and joint U.S. warfighter health readiness and lethality, researchers study infectious diseases, biological warfare detection and defense, combat casualty care environmental health concerns, aerospace and undersea medicine, operational mission support and epidemiology. (U.S.NAVYPHOTO BYALEECEWILLIAMS/ RELEASED)
on behalf of the Defense Health Agency (DHA), assists with funding and research. NMRCalsofunctionsasthecharteredservice productlead,managingcosts,schedulesand performance “NMRC is the capability developer and determines the contracting strategy, or industry engagement approach, to provide the Department of War technical direction,
NMRC, headquarters of Navy Medicine Research & Development, is engaged in a broadspectrumofactivityfrombasicscience inthelaboratorytofieldstudiesinaustereand remote areas of the world to investigations in operational environments In support of
Navy,MarineCorpsandjointU.S.warfighter health, readiness and lethality, researchers studyinfectiousdiseases,biologicalwarfare detectionanddefense,combatcasualtycare, environmental health concerns aerospace andunderseamedicine,operationalmission supportandepidemiology
NAVFAC Washington Team gathered to celebrate the topping out ceremony, marking the significant milestone in the construction of the new Marine Bachelor Enlisted Quarters and Support Facility at Marine Barracks Washington annex in Washington D.C. From left to right: Ryan Tran, engineering technician, Lt Cmdr Kiera Cavalleri, ROICC, Becky Riley, PDC branch head, Graham Ruggie, architectural branch head, Capt. Daniel Schmitt, NAVFAC Washington commanding officer, Tony Dobson, construction manager and Gavin Bailey architectural designer (PHOTO BYREGINAADAMS,NAVALFACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS COMMANDWASHINGTON)
Navy’s newest destroyer arrives at Naval Station Norfolk ahead of commissioning
By Keith Goodsell NAVAL SURFACE FORCE ATLANTIC
The Navy’s newest destroyer, the future USSHarveyC.BarnumJr.,arrivedatitshome port,NavalStationNorfolk,Virginia,March 20 ahead of its commissioning ceremony scheduledforApril11.
The warship’s namesake, retired Marine Corps Col. Harvey Curtiss Barnum Jr a MedalofHonorrecipient,wasonthepierto welcometheshipanditscrew
“To be on the pier and welcome this incredible crew to their new home port is monumental,” Barnum said “This warship represents the enduring bond between the Marine Corps and the Navy, and I have the utmostconfidenceinthecrewtocarryonthe legacyofserviceandcouragethatdefinesour naval forces I look forward to seeing them ‘bringhertolife’andjointhefleet.
The destroyer is the first ship to bear Barnum’s name It honors his gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life beyond the callofdutyduringtheVietnamWar.
On Dec. 18, 1965, then-1st Lt Barnum assumedcommandofhiscompanyafterthe commander was mortally wounded. With twohelicoptersunderhiscontrol,hemoved fearlessly through deadly fire to lead air attacksagainsttheenemy’swell-entrenched positions while directing one platoon in a successfulcounterattackonthekeypositions.
Having cleared a small area, Barnum requested and directed the landing of two transport helicopters to evacuate the deceased and wounded. He then assisted in accomplishingthebattalion’sobjective Heis among the few living namesakes to witness hiswarship’scommissioning
“It is an honor to bring this warship to NorfolkandtobewelcomedbyCol.Barnum himself Hisheroismisthestandardwestrive to meet every day,” said Navy Cmdr BenjaminR.Cantu,theship’scommandingofficer “Thiscrewhastrainedrelentlesslytoprepare forthismoment Wearereadytojointhefleet andcarrythenameofatrueAmericanhero as we defend our nation’s interests around theglobe.”
The warship’s sponsor is Barnum’s wife MarthaHill,whohasmaintainedacloserelationshipwiththecrewsincethekeel-laying ceremony in 2021. In keeping with naval tradition, she will give the order during the commissioning to “man our ship and bring her to life.” At that command, the crew will hoist the commissioning pennant, and the USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr will officially becomeawarshipintheNavy’sfleet
The ship is designed to conduct a wide range of maritime operations, including antiair warfare, antisubmarine warfare and antisurface warfare in support of national security and global maritime stability Once commissioned,thewarshipwillbecapableof operatingindependentlyoraspartofacarrier strikegroup,surfaceactiongrouporanexpeditionarystrikegroup
Courtesy Story
NAVY.MIL
Funded in part by Navy investments provided in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), the advanced manufacturing company Hadrian officially opened a new facility in Cherokee, Alabama March 20th that will boost production of U.S. Navy nuclearsubmarines
The 2.2 million square foot site will host a highly-automated “factory of the future,” known as F4, which will mass produce componentsforVirginia-classattacksubmarines and Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines TheNavy’s$900millioninvest-
ment of OBBBA funds combine with $1.5 billion in private capital for a total investmentofmorethan$2.4billion.Accordingto Hadrian, up to 1,000 high-paying manufacturingjobsarebeingcreatedintheventure.
“BothchambersofCongressdeliveredthe generationalinvestmentrequiredtorebuild our shipbuilding capacity, bring those jobs back to Alabama and put American skilled laborers back at the center of American strength, said Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan. “I look forward to building on this progress together in the months ahead, because we are just getting started. This factoryisthefirstofthreefacilitiesdesigned toaddressthemostcriticalbottlenecksinthe
maritimeindustrialbase.”
Using advanced manufacturing techniques, workers at the new factory will be able to mass produce components that are needed to build Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines. A dedicated productionplantfocusedonthesecomponentsfrees up submarine shipyards in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Virginia to focus more resources on submarine module production, increasing capacity in the submarine industrialbase
“Wecallthisdistributedshipbuilding,and it’sakeytenetofourplantoachieverequired shipbuildingproductionrates,”saidMr Jason Potter, Performing the Duties of Assistant
Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development & Acquisition (ASN RDA) “These factoriesofthefuturemightbeseveralstates awayfromtheyardswheretheshipsareultimatelybuilt,butbytakingonthisworkthey reducebottlenecks,havingaprofoundeffect onthespeedofdelivery.” TheFactory4projectisestimatedtotake 18-24 months from initiation to full-rate production, including stand-up of automated production facilities, qualification
C.ROTT)
Quarterly board develops leaders, fosters friendly competition between surface warriors
By Staff Sgt. Elizabeth Bryson U.S. ARMY TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
FORT EUSTIS, Va
U.S. Army Reserve
Soldiers currently attached to the 841st Transportation Battalion and 842nd Transportation Battalion, 597th Transportation Brigade,U.S.ArmyTransportationCommand (ARTRANS), paused their demanding sustainmentmissionstocompeteintheQuarterlySoldierandNoncommissionedOfficer (NCO)Boardsatthe597th“RapidSupport” headquarters Boards like these challenge Soldiersandleaderstoreachtheirfullpotential,fosteringespritdecorpsandcamaraderie bypromotingfriendlycompetition,motivating troops, and rewarding excellence and hardwork.
Soldiers and NCOs, selected from their peers, showcased excellence in leadership, training, and readiness while highlighting broadening experiences, such as unique assignmentsandhighereducation.
Through rigorous testing and performance, participants demonstrated their commitment to the Army Values, the NCO Creed, and the Soldier Creed— and proved their ability to serve as mentors and role models who inspire continuous growth, education, and improvement among the
ranks
SeniorNCOsfromthe597thTransportation Brigade conducted the boards, includingBrigadeCommandSgt.Maj.NancySainz, Sgt.1stClassBruceFairley Sgt.Maj.Randall Gibson of the 842nd Transportation Battalion, and Sgt. Maj. Lena Breuer of the 841st TransportationBattalion.
Rapid Support leaders not only tested competitors on their Army knowledge but providedvaluablefeedbackandmentorship tohelpthembuildlastingcareersintheArmy andlogisticsfield.
After a challenging competition, Sainz presented the hard-fought Soldier of the Quarter award to Spec. Destiny Dobbs, a U.S. Army Reserve transportation specialist fromthe195thETOinTampa Florida,who currently serves with the 841st TransportationBattalioninCharleston,SouthCarolina. Dobbs,whoworksasacivilianveterinarian technician, said she joined the Army to improve her financial situation and further hereducation
Dobbs has achieved both goals, earning several Army certifications in the logistics fieldwhileworkingonherbachelor’sdegree inradiology
Dobbs explained that Reservists add unique value to the ARTRANS mission
becausetheircivilianeducationandcareers provide special skills and insight to the mission.
Top NCO competitor Sgt. Joseph Meisberger,195thETO,USAR,currentlyattached tothe841st“Gator”Battaliontransportation specialistandHAZMATNCOIC,earnedthe NCOoftheQuarteraward.
Meisberger, who is currently earning a degree in finance, shared his pride in being an NCO in the Army and emphasized the importance of both integrity and connectingwithSoldiers
“As NCOs it’s important to break bread with our Soldiers and get to know them, Meisberger said “We need to be approachable and know what’s going on with them, because at the end of the day… I’m the one they are going to turn to for advice and resources.”
Meisberger also highlighted the unique skills Reservists bring to the ARTRANS mission.
“Reservists have a great ability to multitask, hesaid.“Wehavecivilianjobsandhave the[adaptability]toregularlyswitchgearsto
“Working for ARTRANS has improved my overall readiness as a Reservist, Meisbergerexplained.“Workingontheportswith the841stgavemehands-onexperienceand allowedmetolearnspecializedskills.”
Breuer whose team produced both winningSoldiers,proudlyacceptedboththe SoldieroftheQuarterandNCOoftheQuarter streamers to add to her Gator Battalion guidon,congratulatingthewinningteamand their sponsor Sgt. 1st Class Eric Ryder for theirhardworkandachievements
Sainz praised all the Soldiers and NCOs presentfortheirdedicationtoexcellenceand their efforts to train for and travel to the eventwhilecontinuingtoexecutetheongoingARTRANSmissiontoprojectandsustain the force in support of large-scale combat operationsacrosstheglobe
The 597th Transportation Brigade team congratulatesallourRapidSupportQuarterly SoldierandNCOBoardcompetitors you’re proofofArmyreadinessinaction!
Soldiers from the 841st Transportation Battalion, 597th Transportation Brigade, U.S. Army Transportation Command (ARTRANS), pose outside the brigade headquarters building after
Eustis,
The 841st Gator team led by Sgt. Major Lena Breuer
LEFT:
NHHC announces 2026 Deck Log Poetry Contest
By Staff Sgt. Bryce Hodges NAVAL HISTORY AND HERITAGE COMMAND
Overthepast250years,theU.S.Navyhas maintained a global presence, building a legacyrootedinitscommitmenttopreservingfreedom,promotingstabilityanddefendingdemocraticvaluesworldwide Amongits manytraditions,onestandsoutforitscreativityandspirit:theNewYear’sDeckLogPoem.
This cherished Navy tradition goes back toatleast1926,whereayoungEnsignnamed EdwardVincentDockweiler,servingaboard the USS Idaho (BB-42), penned a 36 line, tongue-in-cheek poem in the ship’s log for thefirstwatchoftheNewYear endingwith theplayfulline:
Well… the Captain did see it. And instead ofreprimandinghim,heresponded:
“The Captain is glad to see that the old Navycustomofwritingupthefirstwatchof the year in rhyme is known to the younger members of the Service. The watch stands
aswritten.”
Every Jan. 1, the Officer of the Deck, or a designated crew member is authorized to recordtheday’sfirstlogentryinverse,offeringararedeparturefromstandardprocedure.
Deck logs serve as official records documenting a ship’s operations, including location,weatherandsignificantevents Typically written in a precise and formal style, these entries are essential for administrative and historical purposes The New Year’s Day poem,however,providesanopportunityfor Sailors to showcase creativity, humor and camaraderiewhilestillfulfillingtheirduties.
Over the years, the practice has evolved into a beloved Navy tradition, with ships acrossthefleetaddingtheirowndistinctive voices and styles Today, the Naval History andHeritageCommandhighlightsthemost imaginativesubmissionsthroughanannual contest, encouraging Sailors to transform routine log entries into memorable reflectionsoflifeatsea.
Even while deployed far from home the New Year’s Deck Log Poem offers Sailors
a meaningful way to celebrate the holiday, strengthen morale and share a moment of connectionwiththeirshipmates Tobeeligibleforthecompetition:
Entries must be submissions to the ship’s official deck log Entries must be written as thefirstentryonJanuary1,2026 Entriesmustbeunclassified.
All paygrades active and reserve are eligible Poems will be evaluated based on coherence, imagery, originality, and how effectively they capture the sailor’s experience If a submission is anonymous the author’s command will be recognized and receive theaward.The1stplacewinnerwillreceive a piece of historic USS Constitution copper Submissionswillonlybeacceptedbyemailat nhhc-decklogs@us.navy.mil.ScannedPDFs of the deck log entry are the preferred form ofdigitalsubmission.
For more information about the deck log completion, visit NHHC at https://www
For more information about the deck log completion, visit NHHC at www.history navy.mil.NHHC,locatedattheWashington Navy Yard, is responsible for the preservation,analysis anddisseminationofU.S.naval history and heritage It provides the knowledgefoundationfortheNavybymaintaining historicallyrelevantresourcesandproducts that reflect the Navy’s unique and enduring contributions through our nation’s history and supports the fleet by assisting with and deliveringprofessionalresearch,analysis,and interpretiveservices NHHCiscomposedof many activities including the Navy DepartmentLibrary,theNavyOperationalArchives, the Navy art and artifact collections, underwaterarcheology,Navyhistories,tenmuseums USSConstitutionrepairfacilityandthe historicshipNautilus
For more news from NHHC, visit http:// www.history.navy.mil
Learn how to get care at overseas military hospitals or clinics
Doyouneedtogetcareatamilitaryhospital or clinic overseas? How you get care depends on whether you live overseas or if you’rejustvisiting Thisarticleexplainshow togetcareatanoverseasmilitaryhospitalor clinicinbothsituations.
“Knowing your beneficiary status and health plan before you travel or move overseas helps you get the care you need,” said U.S. Navy Cmdr Gabrielle Crane, Chief of PatientExperience,DefenseHealthAgency “You should know your options so you can make informed health care choices whereveryouare. Ifyouliveormoveoverseas
1.TRANSFER YOUR ENROLLMENT
Do you have TRICARE Prime? You can transfer your enrollment to the https:// tricare-overseas.com/ when you move You haveafewoptionsfordoingthis: Call the TRICARE overseas contractor, http://www.tricare-overseas.com/ contact-us,whenyouarriveatyournewduty locationornewoverseasresidence,ifretired. SubmitaTRICAREPrimeEnrollmentand PCM Change Form to International SOS or aTRICAREServiceCenter Theenrollment transferiseffectivewhenInternationalSOS receivestheform.
Are you an active duty service member? You and your eligible family members can enrollwhenyouin-processatyournewduty location.
2. CHOOSE YOUR PLAN.
ADSMs: You’ll transfer your enrollment to TRICARE Prime Overseas or TRICARE PrimeRemoteOverseas. Command-sponsored active duty family members: You may enroll in TRICARE Prime Overseas or TRICARE Prime Remote Overseas Family members must be command-sponsored to use a TRICARE Primeoption,asdescribedintheTRICARE Overseas Program Handbook. If you have TRICARE Prime Overseas, you’ll get care from an primary care manager at a military hospital or clinic. You can also choose to enrollinTRICARESelectOverseas
Other TRICARE-eligible active duty familymembers:YoumayenrollinTRICARE Select Overseas You can only get care at a military hospital or clinic if there’s space available You’ll see civilian providers for mostcare.Familymembersmayalsochoose topurchaseotherhealthinsurance Retirees and their family members: You must use TRICARE Select Overseas or TRICARE For Life You can’t enroll in TRICAREPrimeOverseas Youcanonlyget care at military hospitals or clinics if space isavailable
3. GET CARE.
1. Check your information in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System
Make sure that your contact information is current and that it displays your overseas address
2. Findanearbymilitaryhospitalorclinic
To book an appointment at a military hospital or clinic, follow the steps below. If youhave: TRICAREPrimeOverseas:Calltomakean appointmentwithyourassignedPCMoruse theMHSGENESISPatientPortal.
TRICARE Select Overseas or TRICARE For Life: Call the military hospital or clinic tocheckforopenings Youcanonlygetcare atamilitaryhospitalorclinicifthere’sspace available In some cases you’ll need urgent care or specialty care that your military hospital or clinic doesn’t provide. You’ll need a referral from your military hospital or clinic’s PCM. This applies to you if you’re enrolled inTRICAREPrime Ifyouhave: TRICAREPrimeRemote TRICARESelect TRICAREForLife
Contactthehttps://www.tricare-overseas. com/contact-us to find a provider InternationalSOScanhelpyoufindaTRICARE-authorizedproviderinyourarea. If you have TRICARE Prime, you’ll get a notice from International SOS with the provider’s details once your referral processes. At this time, you can call https:// www.tricare-overseas.com/contact-usifyou needhelpbookinganappointmentorfinding adifferentprovider
COSTS
You usually don’t have out-of-pocket costs at military hospitals or clinics If you need to see a civilian provider, follow the rules of your health plan. You may need to payupfront.https://www.tricare-overseas com/beneficiaries/claims/how-to-file-atricare-overseas-claim with https://www tricare-overseas.com/forreimbursement.
PRESCRIPTIONS
You can use the military pharmacy to fill yourprescriptions Youcanalsogeta90-day supply sent to your APO or FPO address through TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery Homedeliveryisn’tavailablein: Germany Norway SaudiArabia Can’t use either of these options? You’ll need to get your medication from a retail pharmacyandhttps://www.tricare-overseas com/beneficiaries/claims/how-to-file-a-tricare-overseas-claimwithInternationalSOS forreimbursement.
IFYOU TRAVEL OVERSEAS Your TRICARE health plan stays active whenyoutraveloverseas You’reonlycovered forurgentandemergencycare OnlyADSMs cangetcoveredroutinecarewhiletraveling Makesuretogetroutinecarebeforeyouleave
MILITARY HOSPITAL OR CLINIC ACCESS WHEN TRAVELING ADSMs must try to get care at the nearest military hospital first. All others can only get care at a military hospital or clinic if there’s space available. Call https://www. tricare-overseas.com/contact-us for help finding a TRICARE-authorized civilian providernearyou.
EMERGENCY CARE
Go to the nearest emergency facility right away If you’re admitted to a hospital, call https://www.tricare-overseas.com/ contact-usoryourPCMwithin24hours
LEARN MORE
To learn more about your overseas militaryhospitalorclinic,searchforyourfacility on Find a Military Hospital or Clinic. Then, check your facility’s website It will include informationabout:
ROTA Spain (Jan. 3, 2026) Lt Mackenna Smith, a native of Los Angeles assigned to Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Rota serves as a registered nurse in the Multi-Service Ward Department providing inpatient medical care to a wide spectrum of patient populations in support of force health, readiness, and mission success. (U.S.NAVYPHOTO BYLIEUTENANTCOMMANDERALICIASACKS)
Nauticus celebrates Month of the Military Child with special admission offer
Press Release
NORFOLK,Va InhonoroftheMonthof theMilitaryChild,Nauticusisproudtorecognize and celebrate the resilience, strength, and sacrifices of military-connected youth withaspecialAprilpromotionpresentedby Chase Throughout the month of April, military familiesareinvitedtoexploreNauticusand the Battleship Wisconsin with an exclusive offer:onefreemilitarychildadmissionwith the purchase of a military adult ticket. This initiativeisdesignedtoprovidemeaningful, educationalexperiencesformilitaryfamilies while acknowledging the vital role military childrenplayinsupportingtheirfamiliesand communities.
LocatedintheheartofdowntownNorfolk, Nauticus offers an engaging blend of maritime discovery hands-on STEM learning
and naval history From interactive exhibits toself-guidedexplorationaboardoneofthe largest and last battleships ever built, families can experience a full day of connection, learning,andadventure.
“This offer is a small but meaningful way forustogivebacktothemilitaryfamilieswho are such an important part of our community,” said Rehn West Saunders, Deputy Director of External Affairs and AdvancementatNauticus “Weareespeciallyproudto recognizemilitarychildrenduringthismonth andprovideopportunitiesforthemtolearn, explore,andcreatelastingmemories.”
The Month of the Military Child is observednationallyeachApril,recognizing the more than 1.6 million military children whofaceuniquechallengesandexperiences aspartofmilitarylife
NauticusextendsitsgratitudetoChasefor presenting this offer and supporting oppor-
Virginia Championship
tunities for military families to engage with maritimehistoryandhands-ondiscovery “Chaseisproudtosupportmilitaryfamilies across Virginia—especially the children who show remarkable resilience as they navigate military life,” said Kevin Thomas RegionalDirectoratChase.“We’rehonored topartnerwithNauticustohelpcreatemore accessible, memorable family experiences this April and to recognize military-connected kids during the Month of the MilitaryChild.
The main event of Virginia Championship Wrestling’s (VCW) annual Hampton High School fundraiser on Saturday, March 14, 2026 ended in a no-contest brawl between Virginia Heavyweight ChampionRexLawlessandKenDixon.Asaresult VCW’seventon Saturday,April4,2026attheNorfolkMasonicTemplewillfeaturea LastManStandingrematchbetweenLawlessandDixonforthetitle TicketsareavailableonlineatSimpleTix.com.Doorsopenat6:30 p.m.withbelltimeat7:30p.m.TheNorfolkMasonicTempleislocated at7001GranbySt Norfolk,VA23505
LawlesshasdominatedVCWasVirginiaHeavyweightChampion since first winning it at Liberty Lottery in July 2025 However, his aforementioneddefenseagainstDixonwasthefirsttimehecouldnot pin his challenger, making Dixon arguably his toughest contender TheirLastManStandingmatchonApril4willonlyconcludewhen awrestlerisunabletorisetotheirfeetbeforeareferee’s10-count. Before Lawless won the Virginia Heavyweight Championship in themaineventofLibertyLottery2025 “GreekGod”Papadonwonthe event’s titular match to earn a championship match of his choosing foruptooneyear AttheNorfolkMasonicTempleonApril4,PapadonplanstousehischampionshipopportunitytochallengeNice& SmoothfortheVCWTagTeamChampionship
Neither Papadon nor his manager Mr Pantas have stated who Papadon’spartnerinthematchwillbe PapadonisaformerVirginia HeavyweightChampionandLibertyChampion,buthehasneverheld tag team gold in VCW. He has previously earned tag team victories with Tiberius Asante and Joseph Keys, and with rumors of Asante andhismanager TimLoulieslookingtowinachampionshipin2026, it’spossiblePapadon’smysterypartnerwillbeAsante
If Keys reunites with Papadon to challenge for the VCW Tag TeamChampionship thenhewillcompetetwiceinonenight Keys iscurrentlyscheduledtofaceLDJ.
LDJrecentlycameupunsuccessfulinaVCWLibertyChampionshipmatchagainstCommanderKing,whocheatedtoretainhistitle in a match that prevented LDJ from challenging King again. With LDJnolongerincontentionfortheLibertytitle helookstorefocus himselfinVCWwithhismatchagainstKeys SlammyDavisJr madehisVCWdebutonMarch14inacompetitivematchagainstformerVirginiaHeavyweightChampionDevantes Although he ultimately lost the match, he impressed VCW officials andearnedamatchonApril4againstMyronMalone Malone who defeatedIrvinLegendonMarch14,recentlyannouncedhisentryinto the2026LibertyLottery.MalonehopestocontinueearningmomentumpriortotheLibertyLotterywithawinoverDavisJr OnSaturday,Feb.7,JoiyaBlakedefeatedAdriannainaone-on-one match. Nahir Robles snuck into the ring after and blindsided Blake. Due to Robles’ attack, a match between Blake and Robles has been sanctionedforApril4.
Chill Out Expo happening this weekend in NJ, see movie and TV stars, music and wrestling icons and more, WWE Hall of Famer Road Dogg, shares wrestling stories
Interview By Yiorgo
If you have ever dreamed of talking to, taking pictures with and seeing stars from your childhood and the present, then THE placetobeisatChillOut,NewJersey’schilliest autograph expo, that is happening this weekend, April 2nd-4th, at the Hanover MarriottHotelinWhippany,NewJersey.A who’s who of the sports and entertainment worldwillbepresenttotalkto,dophotoopps andsomuchmore.
From Boy George to Paula Abdul, From BrookeShieldstoDebbieBoone,FromNew AgeOutlawstotheGodfatherDuoofGianni Russo and John Martino, from Heather ThomastoCatherineBach,fromTheFresh Prince of Bel Air Gang to the Million Dollar Man and sooooo many more. The list goes on and on and has to be seen to be believed. Go to https://www.chilloutnj.com/ for the completelist,times dates,pricesandsomuch more. With us today is World Wrestling Entertainment’s (WWE) superstar “Road Dogg JesseJameswhoserealnameisBrianJames A previously celebrated podcaster Brian is a world renowned WWE Hall of Famer, a memberofWWE’sfamousD-GenerationX and up until recently, the Senior Vice PresidentofLiveEventsCreative.
Billy Gunn will be at the Chill Out Expo in NewJersey Whatshouldfansexpectwhen theycometoseeyouandBillythisweekend?
BrianJames:Weloveseeingandinteractingwithourfans It’sbecauseofourfansthat wegottoliveandmakeourdreamscometrue of being professional wrestlers feeding our families, traveling and seeing the world, so thisisourwayofgivingbackandsayingthank you.Wealsolovehearingourfansstoriesof how wrestling or maybe even some of our matches helped them in overcoming obstacles in their lives or following their dreams andmakingthemcometrue Seeingthesmile ontheirfaces saysitall.Wearetrulyblessed.
BJ: Billy is really a big baby with a really soft heart. I get goosebumps just talking about him. He’s a Texan and a bull rider andabigbaddude He’s6’6”and285Lbsof solidmuscleandwhenhelooksandbrowsers down at you, you want to step away He has changed a lot. He is so much in a differentheadspacenowandfuntointeractwith. There was one time that we had a moment whereIwaslike,dude,youkeeptalkingtome thiswayandI’mgoingtofightyou.Youmay beatmeupbecauseyou’rebigandathleticbut I’m going to punch you in the face It was a changingpointbuthealsoletmeknowright then,“Ohman,Idon’tmeannothingbythat, that’showItalk.”
Y: That’s awesome One of my favorite episodes on A&E’s WWE’s Most Wanted Treasures was the one where you and Mick FolleyfoundtheJeep/tankthatwasusedat the Norfolk Scope, about the World Championship Wrestling (WCW) invasion angle That night, I was at the Hampton Coliseum for the then WWF show and all of a sudden they showed you guys on the Titantron and youwereattheScope Everyonewentcrazy with excitement. Can you share several memories?
BJ:Itwasdefinitelyagutsymaneuver We went there in a jeep/tank that had a canon
on it. We drove on the street, talking smack andoncewegottotheundergroundparking ramp, we went down there. If they opened the door I don’t know what would have happened.Iknewmybrotherswereinthere butIdidn’tknowonwhosesidetheywould fight on It was really a cool opportunity for us Andthenextweekortheweekafterthat,it wasthefirstweekthatwestartedwinningin theratingswaragainstWCW.ItwasaplethoraofthingssuchasMickFoleywinningthe WWFWorldTitleandWCWstoogingitoff ontheirchanneland500,000peopletunedin toseeMickwinthetitle Soitstartedthewave oftheWWF/WWEwinningtheratingswar.
Y:Talktousaboutthelogisticsofit.
BJ: We all got into a big van and the guy withthejeep/tankwasbehindus Wedrove fromtheHamptonColiseumtotheNorfolk Scope We parked out on the street, got the jeep of the trailer and we said let’s go We reallydidn’tknowwhatweweregoingtodo The driving down the ramp and beating on the door, that was totally last minute It was like, just go down there, just go down there, they’re closing the door The door started closing Ofcourseweshotitalittlelatersoit madeitlooklikeweweregoingdownthereso theyclosedthedooronus Butthetruthwas they started closing the door so we started drivingdownthere.Perceptionisreality Had that door open, I don’t know what would have happened. I knew they had Haku, the
toughest wrestler around so I was going to runfromhim,butsomeoftheothersIknew Icouldtake.
Y: Can you tell us about filming the segment for WWE’s Most Wanted Treasures in Hickory, North Carolina when you andMickFoleysawthejeep/tankusedinthe WCWinvasionangle?
BJ:YesitwasMickandIandtheproductionteamofcoursethatwentdownthere.It was actually at the guy’s house The funny story was that I got to his house two hours early I was supposed to be dropped off at thehotel,butIwasdroppedoffathishouse which had the military memorabilia and the jeep So I got to hang out on the guy’s front porch and take a nap until the people gotthere.Wehadareallygoodtimeandthe family that owns the jeep have been working with the WWE for a long time and we willbeworkingwiththeminthefuturewith thatsamejeep WeusedthejeepintheWWE RAWDX25thReunionepisodeinBrooklyn. ItookShawnMichaelsandKid(X-PacSean Whitman)toseethejeepthereandtheyused thatfootageinthisepisode Y:Howdideveryonereactwhenyouand they saw it for the first time after all these years?
BJ: When I first saw it, it was really awesometosee It’sinbettershapenowthan it was back then. Coming from my military background, it was really cool for me to see
it. We actually got to fire the cannon at the house Both Kid and Shawn loved seeing it You know Shawn (Michaels) was not there whenwefilmedtheinvasioninNorfolk.But Itwasreallycoolformetoshowittobothof them. Shawn comes from a military family andisanavidhunterandoutdoorsman.Itwas coolforustotalkaboutthemilitaryaspectof it IrememberthinkingwhenIsawit where and how were we sitting on this thing Now weareolderandbiggerandIdon’tknowhow wenegotiatedandsatonit. Asyousawontheepisode,wetriedtobuy itfromthefamily ColonelWilliehaspassed on and he left it all to his son John Warren We spent the day together and the amount of historic memorabilia full uniforms from someofthefirstmarineparatroopers,aJapanese machine gun, an incredible collection, justsomuchtolookat.Iactuallycouldhave stayedthereallday.Wetriedtobuythejeep from him. He wanted $300,000 for it and weonlyhadabudgetof$50,000 Insteadwe agreedtopayhimtobringhim,hisfamilyand thejeepinandusethemonasaneededbasis Y: For me, it was really cool seeing your NewAgeOutlawsChampionshipBeltinyour showcase What’syourfavoritemomentwith thatbelt?
BJ: That’s the title that the fans love the oldschooltag-title,allthewayfromthe80’s intotheAttitudeArea.It’stheactualtitlethat theHartFoundation,theLegionofDoom,all thoseguysandIwereblessedtohavecustody ofthattitleforabrieftime It’sthatbig beautiful WWF at that time tag team title I had it here at my house and they came to get it. Truthbetold,theytookitfrommyhouseand Idon’tthinkI’mgettingitback. The truth of it is I also got it by nefarious meanstoo Afriendofmineabscondedwith it from the WWE warehouse He is a WWE employee and was with the Archivist Ben Brown when it happened, so I don’t think we “stole” it, but it was in my office at Stanford,Connecticut.WhenIgotfired,Ibrought it home with me and had it on display here. Look, it was easy come easy go I enjoyed shootingthethingwithMickFoley Y: It was nice to see the segment about looking for, God rest her soul, China’s gear What are some fond memories of working withandbeingaroundChina?
BJ: She was a kindred spirit. She was tortured inside like me, but we weren’t old enough to realize what was going on at the time She was all about having a good time andhavingfun.Shewaslikeoneoftheboysin thesenseofbeingrighttherewithus,laughing and joking, having fun and being fun to havearound.
Y: Congratulations on your recent retirementfromyourWWEpositionastheSenior VicePresidentofLiveEventsCreative.Thank youforallyouryearsofentertainingthefans infrontandbehindthecamera.Howdiditall fall in place and you were originally offered thatposition?
BJ: Thank you for the congratulations It wasallanincrediblestorywithdivineinterventionforsure.Originally,Iwasreleasedin January2022andIhadninemonthsofseverancepaybecauseIwasafulltimeemployee for a decade Literally the month the severance pay was due to end, Paul (Levesque, ChiefContentOfficerforWWE)orHunteras mostpeopleknowhim,calledmeandasked meifIwantedtocomeback
(COURTESY OF CHILL OUT EXPO)
andthat’swhyIsayitwasdivineintervention. I do believe it was God looking out for me evenwhenIwasworriedandwasnotbeing faithful.Atthesametime,Iwasthinking,the right thing will happen. I was praying and believing Anditdidhappen,itwasnotwhat Iwasexpecting Huntercalledmewhenthe timewasrightandaskedmeifIcoulddothe job and I said, yea I’d love to He has always lookedoutformeandI’llalwayslookoutfor him.Andthat’sthewayitis
Y:Whatdidthejobentail?
BJ: It was very time consuming. It was not a difficult job, it was basically following creative on television and making sure the live events that we had more of back then matchedthatcreative.Ihadtocomeupwith some creative, like some angles for the live events,justputtingtogethercreativeandthe matchesandcomingupwiththefinish,soit’s allthecreativeoftheliveevents Everynow andthenIhadtostrayfromtheformulabut it’s really just following what creative they are doing on television and making sure the liveeventsreplicatedthat.Ihadasmallteam and we wrote or booked the live events that were not on television. Business is booming right now and I credit it to the three T’s: Time Talent and Team Time is the time that we are in now, the culture, the way the worldisgoing Thepeoplewanttobeentertained. I love this business I was working a lot in putting together these live events, but Iwasathomedoingit.Ihadabalanceinmy personalandworklife It’sablessingtohave hadthisopportunity
BJ:Yougetthebestofthebestfacingeach other with clean finishes and a clean show. I like to keep it around seven matches and at around 2 hours and 45 minutes There is nothing like sitting in the arena and feeling the palpable energy that is the fans and that the fans get from the athletes When you witness it live, you become a part of the WWEuniverseandyoufeeltheenergythat they exude. This to me is this generation’s Barnum and Bailey It’s an entertainment show,avarietyshow yougetwrestling,real-
from Page C1
On April 4, Hallstars have their second match since attacking the Golden Pinky Society when they compete against the team of Alex Divine and Nikita Divine’s commitment to honor and Nikita’s frequent discardingofrulesmakesthemaseeminglyoddpairing,buttheircombined experience and unpredictable styles couldmakethemdifficulttodefeat.
Commander King has reigned as VCWLibertyChampionfor16months Kinghastakenonanyandallchallengers for his title, including a successful defense on March 14 against Chris Slade.Kingrecentlyalludedtoentering the2026LibertyLotteryand“winning moregold.”
But before the Liberty Lottery, he defendshistitleonApril4againstPiero Tenorio Tenorio is a young wrestler looking for opportunities, and if King is overlooking him, Tenorio may seize themomentandcapturethetitle For more information, visit vcwprowrestling.com.
ity, comedy, brutality, we give you our all. SinceI’maskingyoutobringyourfamilyand spendyourhardearnedmoney,I’mgoingto writethebestshowIcanandtrytoleaveyou wanting more. It will definitely be worth it whenyoucomeseetheshow.
That SuperShow and all the other live eventSuperShowsthatweputon,meanswe havecombinedRAWtalentandSmackDown talent. On that day, those two brands come together, it is top notch, it is the top athletes inWWEandyoureallygetyourbangforyour buckwhenyoucometoacombinedliveevent show. It is also a time when you may see a RAWsuperstarwrestleaSmackdownsuperstar.Thosetypesofmatchesarenotasrareas youthinkbecauseIactuallylikedtheopportunitytodojustthat.Itgivesitanextraadvantagetogotoaliveeventbecauseyoumaysee thingsthatyoumayneverseeontelevision.
Y: When you had your podcast, “Oh You Didn’tKnow?Iwasafaithfulfanandlistener I actually find myself going back and relisteningtosomeofmymorefavoriteepisodes. Whathavebeensomeofyourhighlightsfrom doingyourpodcast?
BJ: When Ryan Katz and I were both releasedfromWWE,westartedourpodcast. Thehighlightsarethatthepodcastwasvery therapeutic for me It was a lot of laughs for me personally It was great for me and brought me joy and laughter and I hope the samewithourlisteningaudience Ilovedthe relationship that I have with both the first host Ryan Katz who now is working back with WWE and with the second host, The CasioKid.HeisConradThompson’sfriend and a morning disk jockey in Huntsville Alabama, and does stand up comedy too Casio is a great guy and so are the Deangelo brothersTomandMarkuswhowereproducersandhandlesocialmediaforthepodcast Ihadasmallteamthereandasmallteamat myWWEjobandforgingthoserelationships wasveryimportantforme
Y:Let’stalkaboutsomeimportantpeople inyourlife Let’sdoawordassociationwith a little explanation. What does Jeff Jarrett meantoyou?
BJ: Best friend Brother. I’ve always revered Jeff I’ve always looked up to Jeff as a smarter big brother and a smarter businessman.
Y:Hunter/PaulLevesque
BJ:Faithfulorloyal.WhenIwasreleased fromtheWWE,inthoseninemonthswhenI didn’thearfromhim,Ididn’ttalktohimand I was unemployed. I didn’t know where we stoodandIfeelhorribleforthatnowbecause hestoodatthesameplacethewholetime It wasmethatveeredawayfromhim.Henever hadinmindtonotbringmeback Hewaited fortherightpositiontodoso Thingshadto happenandIdidn’tneedtoknowaboutthem until I needed to know about them. In that periodoftimeofmenotknowing,Idoubted him and what he was willing to do for me I shouldnothavedoubtedeitherbecausewhen he was able he proved he was willing and here I am, back with the company. So loyal and faithful and I wish I could say the same aboutme
Y:ShawnMichaels
BJ:Transformation.AndIsaythatbecause man, what a transformation he has made in hislifefrom20yearsago,totoday.Heissomebody that I look up to, I respect his spiritual walk,hiscommitmenttolivingrightnow.It issoimpressivetomebecauseIknowwhere he’sbeenbecauseIhavebeentherewithhim. And now to be where he’s at, I guess I can onlykeeptrying
Y:Notonlyareyoutrying,youaresucceeding BJ:Iamspirituallyblessed.Iamsucceeding and I am doing alright. And you know what’s really crazy? Three of the guys from DX are now helping to run the company. Shawn is Senior Vice President of Talent DevelopmentCreative,IamSeniorVicePresident of Live Events Creative and Hunter is thebossasWWE’sChiefContentOfficer.
Y:X-Pac/Kid/SeanWaltman.
BJ: Eternal friend. Here’s a great example We have not seen each other in over two years We are going to Brooklyn for the DegenerationX25thAnniversary,I’mcheckinginatthehotel,IlookandIseeKidsitting atthebarinthehotellobby.Igothere,wehug, he’sdrinkingaDietCoke,Iputmybagsinmy roomthenwehaddinnertogether,talkingfor overtwohours MeandX-Pacaresosimilarto eachotherinjustabouteverything Sofrom JefftoBilly,toKid,ShawnandHunter,weare allpeasinapod.Ilovehavingtheminmylife
Y: What are you most proud of in your wrestlingcareer?
BJ: I’ve made a bit of a transformation of
my own. My favorite picture that I have on mywallanditwasbehindmewhenIdidmy podcast is of a match with Big Boss Man I thinkonRAWfortheHardcoreTitle Itwas justamatchandIcutapromothattalkedhim into putting the title on the line We had the match,MickFoleygotinvolved cheatedandI wonthematchandtheHardcoreTitle Inthe match,Ihadanoosearoundmyneck,blood comingoutofmymouth,IjustbeatBigBoss ManwhoIwatchedgrowingup,webecame friendsandofcoursenowheisnolongerwith us, so it’s my favorite picture, of me holding that Hardcore Title, with the noose around myneckandbloodcomingoutofmymouth. It looks like I’ve been through a war and I cameoutontop It was also a time when I was doubting myself Billy and I had just broken up as a teamandIhadtostandonmyowntwofeet. I was also in active addiction, a narcissist who had an inferiority complex. Imagine thatdichotomy.Iwanttoruletheworldbut Iwantnoneoftheresponsibility NowIwas scaredbecauseIhadtotrytosucceedonmy own.Allthattosay,thatwasamomentinmy careerthatmeansalottomepersonally Y:Canyoushareapinchme wowmoment ortwo?
BJ: Beating the Road Warriors for the WWF at the time tag team championships It was a big deal to me that those two guys did that for us Ours is a very respect driven gameandyougottagiveittogetit.Theseguys showingusthatrespect,doingthehonorsfor us, putting that title on us, the rocket on us basically,I’llneverforgetthat.
I grew up watching them hitting the ring on Georgia Championship Wrestling beatingthecrapoutofeverybody,theywerethe baddest dudes in the world and here I am, beatingthemonaPay-Per-ViewfortheWWF Titles,yesadefinitepinchmemoment There wasapinchmeyear,thathappenedallaround that and the fact that we are talking about it 25 years later is a testament to how impactfulallthatwas.
Yiorgo is an arts, entertainment and sports writer A stage, TV and movie actor, he is also a sports entertainer educator motivational speaker, writer, storyteller and columnist.
“Greek God”Papadon lifts Brandon Scott for a piledriver during a match on Saturday, March 14 2026 at Hampton High School in Hampton, Va (PHOTO BYJONATHAN MCLARTY/ FREELANCE)
Myron Malone (right) poses for a photo after incapacitating his opponent Irvin Legend on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Hampton High School in Hampton, Va (PHOTO BYJONATHAN MCLARTY/ FREELANCE)
Dixon dives onto wrestlers during a brawl with Virginia Heavyweight Champion Rex Lawless on Saturday,
MCLARTY/
Commander King stands tall over Chris Slade after a successful VCW Liberty Championship defense on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Hampton High School in Hampton, Va (PHOTO BYJONATHAN MCLARTY/ FREELANCE)
Brunch made easy
By Feature Impact
Gatheringfriendsandfamilydoesn’tneedtobefancy Withitsprimepositioningbetweenbreakfastandlunch, brunchisamorecasualandlighteralternativetothetypicaldinnerparty When charged with hosting a mid-day gathering, a little pre-planning can go a long way toward ensuring yourbrunchget-togetherisassimpleasitisscrumptious Getcreativewithdecor Whenpreppingyourtablescape, think outside the box. Opt for unexpected serving dishes such as tartlet tins and vases, and transfer syrups and jams from their everyday containers to glass bowls or creamers Fresh flowers and produce can add natural popsofcolortothetableandabowloffruitcanmakefor aneye-catchingcenterpiece Planavarietyofdishes Makesureyouhaveamixof bothsweetandsavorydishesonthemenuthatcanplease a wide variety of palates Earmarking some recipes that can be made ahead, like pastries and casseroles, can be a simplewaytoavoidwakingupextraearlytoprepare.Save themorningofyoureventfordishesthatarebestserved fresh, like this Herbed Spanish Omelet, which features potatoes; fresh, spring herbs; and red onions and packs protein,B-vitaminsandcancer-protectivephytochemicals Serveitbuffet-style. Setting your spread out on the counterandallowinggueststohelpthemselvesnotonly makesiteasierforthehosttomingle,butitallowsguests tocustomizetheirmealsastheywishandgivesthegathering a more casual vibe Try themed stations, such as a coffeeormimosabar,parfaitbarorbreadbar,inaddition to more traditional dishes to let guests take the customizationtothenextlevel.
Reprinted with permission from the American Institute for Cancer Research Servings: 4
1poundpotatoes,peeledanddicedorshredded
water
2tablespoonsextra-virginoliveoil
½cupdicedredonion
2clovesgarlic,minced
4largewholeeggs,lightlybeaten
2eggwhites,lightlybeaten
2tablespoonsfinelychoppedfreshparsley
2tablespoonsfinelychoppedfreshbasil
2tablespoonsfinelychoppedfreshchives
salt,totaste(optional)
freshherbsprigs,forgarnish(optional)
Placepotatoesinlargepan.Coverwithwater Bringto boil and cook, uncovered, 3 minutes Remove from heat. Coverandletstandabout10minutes oruntilpotatoesare tender Drainwell.
Indeep,10-inchnonstickskilletovermediumheat,heat oil. Add onion and garlic. Cook about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally Addpotatoesandcook5minutes. Combine whole eggs and egg whites Stir in parsley basilandchives Seasonwithsalt,totaste,ifdesired Pour mixtureoverpotatoesinhotskillet.Reduceheatandcook, uncovered, about 10 minutes, or until bottom of omelet isgolden.
Create little moments of happiness this spring with yummy potato recipes
By Feature Impact
SOURCE: THE LITTLE POTATO COMPANY
As the weather breaks and spring brings increased opportunitiesforfamiliestogetoutside,activities,adventuresandjam-packedcalendarsabound Allthosespecial momentsspentatthepark,thesportsfieldorinthebackyard may leave lasting memories, but they can also leave youfeelingshortontimeinthekitchen.
Bringalittlemomentofhappinesstobusyfamilymealtimes during the spring season with The Little Potato Company’s line of easy-to-prepare Little Potatoes. They comepre-washed,requirenopeelingandaresmallenough that they don’t need to be cut, allowing for less time in thekitchenandmorefamilytimearoundthetableasthe days get longer no extra spring cleaning required. For anaddedhelpingofconvenience,theirMicrowaveReady Little Potato Kits come with delicious seasoning packs; simplypopintothemicrowave,sprinkleontheincluded seasoningandenjoy.
Forafunafter-schoolorgame-nightsnack,theseCrispy Air Fryer Potato Nuggets pair perfectly with a variety of deliciousdips Theairfryercooksthepotatoesinminutes, creatingacrispysnackwithminimalprep nochopping orpeelingneeded.
Oryoucanmakeadelicioussidedishacinchwithpesto, whichaddsabright,flavorfultwisttoaclassicintheseBasil PestoMashedPotatoes Theypairperfectlywitheveryday family meals using Little Potatoes that require no choppingorpeelingthankstotheirnaturallythinskins,helping cut down on prep time while bringing fresh flavor to thedinnertable
Tohelpfuelfamilies’springvacationplansandeveryday meals,TheLittlePotatoCompanyisgivingyouachance to enter a sweepstakes through May 25 to win a $10,000 travelvoucherwithadditionalprizesincluding10grocery giftcardsvaluedat$1,000
Enter the sweepstakes at TheLittleSpringtimeSweeptakes.com,andfindmorewaystomakespringmeals abreezebyvisitingLittlePotatoes.com.
Once potatoes are cooked, strain and transfer to a mediummixingbowl.
Using a potato masher, smash potatoes with milk and buttermixturethenseasonwithsaltandpepper,totaste. Stirinpestomixture
Expecting a baby? Learn about TRICARE’s maternity care options
By TRICARE Communications
FALLSCHURCH,Va Pregnancycanbe
anexcitingtime Butit’salsoahighlypersonal experience Yourmaternitycarechoicescan make a meaningful difference throughout pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum recovery TRICARE covers a range of maternity careservicesandprovidertypes Thiscoverage gives expecting mothers options while ensuringaccesstocare.
“Havingaccesstodifferenttypesofproviders allows expectant mothers to choose the supportthatbestfitstheirneeds,”saidJeannine Pickrell, MS, RN, director, Population Health, TRICARE Health Plan, at the DefenseHealthAgency “TRICAREcoverage isdesignedtosupportsafe,informedchoices throughoutpregnancyandpostpartumcare.”
COVERAGE FOR MATERNITY CARE AND CHILDBIRTH
As detailed in the TRICARE Maternity CareBrochure(onlineathttps://tricare.mil/ Publications/Brochures/maternity_care), TRICAREcovers:
Your costs depend on your TRICARE plan Activedutyservicemembersandtheirfamily memberswithTRICAREPrimehavenocosts formaternityservices
HOWTO GET MATERNITY CARE
Your path to maternity care depends on whichTRICAREplanyouhave
IfyouhaveTRICAREPrime:
Startbycallingyourprimarycaremanager. Your PCM will help coordinate all your maternitycare.
Does your military hospital or clinic have maternity services? If so you’ll continue to getcarethere.
Ifmaternitycareisn’tavailableatyourmilitary hospital or clinic, your PCM will refer youtoacivilianprovider
IfyouhaveTRICAREPrimeRemote:
YourassignedPCMwilldirectyourcare.
You can see any TRICARE-authorized civilian provider You must get pre-authorization from your regional contractor Your PCM will help you with the pre-authorizationprocess
IfyouhaveTRICARESelect:
You can see any TRICARE-approved providerwithoutareferral.
If you see a network provider, you’ll pay lessoutofpocket They’llfileclaimsforyou.
Do you have TRICARE Prime Remote Overseas?YoushouldcontacttheTRICARE Overseas contractor International SOS for assistance
Do you have TRICARE Select Overseas? YoucanseealmostanyTRICARE-authorized provider You may need to pay upfront and fileforreimbursement.
DENTAL CARE DURING YOUR PREGNANCY
AreyouenrolledintheTRICAREDental Program? The TDP provides a third cleaningina12-monthperiodduringpregnancy. Interested in using this benefit? Let your dental provider know that you’re pregnant whenschedulingyourappointment.
CHILDBIRTH AND BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT DEMONSTRATION
The Childbirth and Breastfeeding Support Demonstration gives you access to more pregnancy and postnatal support. It covers services from specialized providers whose services aren’t otherwise covered by TRICARE.
TousetheCBSD:
YoumusthaveTRICAREPrime TRICARE Prime Remote, or TRICARE Select. (Note: You aren’t eligible if you have TRICARE For Life, the US Family Health Plan, or the Continued Health Care Benefit Program.) Doyouliveoverseas?Youmustenrollinthe demonstration.Itmaynotbeavailableinall overseaslocations Youneedtobeatleast20weekspregnant for childbirth support. You must be at least 27weekspregnantforbreastfeedingsupport. Youmustplantogivebirthoutsideamilitaryhospitalorclinic
This demonstration runs through Dec 31,2026 Formoreinformationvisithttps:// tricare.mil/Plans/SpecialPrograms/CBSD
COVERAGE FOR YOUR BABY YourbabygetstheirownTRICAREcoverageafterbirth Butyouneedtotakeactionto ensurecontinuouscoverage
Register your baby in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System within90daysintheU.S.or120daysoverseas ToregisterinDEERS,thesponsormustgo toaUniformedServicesIDcardoffice Bring yourbaby’sofficialbirthcertificateorFS-240 ConsularReportofBirthAbroad.
The process for DEERS registration and plan enrollment varies by your status and location. To learn more, check out Getting TRICARE for Your Child. You can also watch the newborn enrollment videos on TRICARE’sYouTubechannel.
Childbirth is also a TRICARE Qualifying Life Event. This means you have 90 days to switchyourfamily’sTRICAREhealthplan, if you want to make a change All family members are eligible to change their health planafteraQLE.
LEARN MORE AND GET SUPPORT
Pregnancy and maternity care decisions can feel overwhelming But understanding your TRICARE options can help you plan withconfidence
Tolearnmore,youcan:
Read the TRICARE Maternity Care Brochure
Visit Maternity Care to review maternity coverageanddemonstrationdetails
Contactyourregionalcontractorforhelp finding authorized providers. (Note: Visit Pregnancy Care to review coverage while livingoverseas.)
Talk with your provider early to discuss deliveryandsupportoptions
Takingtimetounderstandyourcoverage helps ensure access to the care and support you need throughout your pregnancy and postpartumjourney
Would you like the latest TRICARE news senttoyoubyemail?VisitTRICARESubscriptions to get benefit updates, news, and more.
Jennifer Tiffany, chief of Midwifery Womack Army Medical Center discusses heat safety with patient Kami Monroe during a routine prenatal care appointment at Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg, North Carolina,June 27, 2025 (PHOTO BYKEISHAFRITH)
