Military Education and Resource Guide 2015 Spring Edition

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*As reported by Military Times/Edge Magazine

Image Courtesy of the DoD.

We want you to make an informed decision about the university that’s right for you. For more about the graduation rate and median debt of students who completed each program, as well as other important information—visit www.APUS.edu/disclosure.

THE TOP CHOICE OF SERVICEMEMBERS.

WITH 65,000 MILITARY STUDENTS, THE WORD IS OUT — BUT WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED.

LEARN MORE AT WWW.AMUONLINE.COM/DS

People talk. And right now, they’re talking about AMU. Built upon student referrals, AMU is the global leader in education for the U.S. military. Since we offer more than 90 online degree programs, from Cybersecurity to Transportation and Logistics, you can do anything you set your mind to—whether in the military or transitioning out.

AMERICAN MILITARY UNIVERSITYwww.amuonline.com/DS

Admission Phone: 877-777-9081

Financial Aid Phone: 877-372-3535

Military Programs Email: [email protected]

ASSOCIATE DEGREES

Associate programs are designed for students who seek

a two-year degree as either their final degree in higher

education or the foundation for further study at the

bachelor’s level. An associate degree typically requires

61-64 semester hours (20 courses and 1-4 labs). Students

must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent to be

admitted to an associate program.

BACHELOR’S DEGREES

The bachelor’s degree program is also open to students

who possess a high school diploma or its equivalent. This

minimum 120-124 credit program is the standard “four-

year” undergraduate degree desired by most employers

and prepares the student for graduate study. All students

who enroll in the bachelor’s degree program must first

complete Coll100-Foundations of Online Learning which

helps to ensure they get the most out of their online

learning experience.

MASTER’S DEGREES

AMU accepts students for graduate-level study who

have earned a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an

accredited institution. To earn a master’s degree, students

must complete a minimum of 12 courses and take a final

comprehensive examination, thesis options, or capstone/

applied research project at the end of all course work.

American Military University offers more than 90 degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s level through its six distinct academic schools.

School of Arts and HumanitiesThe University is unique in offering a full range of online degrees in arts and humanities that are based on the great ideas, works, and thinkers that have defined civilization as embodied in the “great books” tradition. The curriculum addresses humankind’s fundamental topics through study of courses in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Coursework is designed to develop high-level research, analytical, and interpersonal skills and prepares students for a broad range of professional careers.

School of BusinessThe School of Business offers a flexible, dynamic, and interactive program to accommodate many types of learners. We integrate new technologies to keep the classroom interesting and up-to-date. Students are taught not only the concepts but also the “real world” application of the materials. The curriculum provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge for students seeking preparation or advancement in business and leadership roles in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. Programs dovetail with several university specialties so that students can specifically concentrate in areas of professional or personal interest—ranging from entrepreneurship and global business management to information technology management and homeland security resource allocation.

School of EducationGraduate programs in the School of Education are designed to meet the most rapid growing demands of the profession. Our certification programs are built to the high state and national content standards. We provide opportunities to practicing teachers to enhance their professional training in critical needs areas such as special education, elementary reading, ELL, instructional leadership and curriculum and instruction for elementary teachers.

School of Public Service and HealthThe School of Public Service and Health houses several of the university’s flagship programs; namely emergency and disaster management and criminal justice. It is also the home of up-and-coming programs in security management, legal studies, and public health. Our faculty combine top academic credentials with practical expertise. They include practicing attorneys, public health professionals, emergency managers, criminal justice professionals, and security managers--as well as international and national governmental and military consultants and practitioners.

School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and MathScience and technology professionals are vital to society’s continued innovation. Academic programs in this school help students cultivate the problem solving, creative, and technological skills necessary for advancements in their chosen field – whether it be pursuing innovations in environmental policy, space studies, or one of the many professions within the information technology field.

School of Security and Global StudiesThe programs taught in the School of Security and Global Studies truly embody our motto, “Educating Those Who Serve.” Students with majors in this school have an understanding of the world—appreciating differences in political, economic, and social cultures. Our faculty members are highly-credentialed and respected leaders in their fields, and many of them currently work in the U.S. government and in the U.S. intelligence community. Our graduates are employed in leadership positions at agencies ranging from the Departments of State, Defense, and Homeland Security to the intelligence services, as well as private businesses throughout the world.

AMU_DefenseStandard_0414.indd 1 4/29/14 4:01 PM

3Spring 2015 MERG

*As reported by Military Times/Edge Magazine

Image Courtesy of the DoD.

We want you to make an informed decision about the university that’s right for you. For more about the graduation rate and median debt of students who completed each program, as well as other important information—visit www.APUS.edu/disclosure.

THE TOP CHOICE OF SERVICEMEMBERS.

WITH 65,000 MILITARY STUDENTS, THE WORD IS OUT — BUT WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED.

LEARN MORE AT WWW.AMUONLINE.COM/DS

People talk. And right now, they’re talking about AMU. Built upon student referrals, AMU is the global leader in education for the U.S. military. Since we offer more than 90 online degree programs, from Cybersecurity to Transportation and Logistics, you can do anything you set your mind to—whether in the military or transitioning out.

AMERICAN MILITARY UNIVERSITYwww.amuonline.com/DS

Admission Phone: 877-777-9081

Financial Aid Phone: 877-372-3535

Military Programs Email: [email protected]

ASSOCIATE DEGREES

Associate programs are designed for students who seek

a two-year degree as either their final degree in higher

education or the foundation for further study at the

bachelor’s level. An associate degree typically requires

61-64 semester hours (20 courses and 1-4 labs). Students

must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent to be

admitted to an associate program.

BACHELOR’S DEGREES

The bachelor’s degree program is also open to students

who possess a high school diploma or its equivalent. This

minimum 120-124 credit program is the standard “four-

year” undergraduate degree desired by most employers

and prepares the student for graduate study. All students

who enroll in the bachelor’s degree program must first

complete Coll100-Foundations of Online Learning which

helps to ensure they get the most out of their online

learning experience.

MASTER’S DEGREES

AMU accepts students for graduate-level study who

have earned a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an

accredited institution. To earn a master’s degree, students

must complete a minimum of 12 courses and take a final

comprehensive examination, thesis options, or capstone/

applied research project at the end of all course work.

American Military University offers more than 90 degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s level through its six distinct academic schools.

School of Arts and HumanitiesThe University is unique in offering a full range of online degrees in arts and humanities that are based on the great ideas, works, and thinkers that have defined civilization as embodied in the “great books” tradition. The curriculum addresses humankind’s fundamental topics through study of courses in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Coursework is designed to develop high-level research, analytical, and interpersonal skills and prepares students for a broad range of professional careers.

School of BusinessThe School of Business offers a flexible, dynamic, and interactive program to accommodate many types of learners. We integrate new technologies to keep the classroom interesting and up-to-date. Students are taught not only the concepts but also the “real world” application of the materials. The curriculum provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge for students seeking preparation or advancement in business and leadership roles in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. Programs dovetail with several university specialties so that students can specifically concentrate in areas of professional or personal interest—ranging from entrepreneurship and global business management to information technology management and homeland security resource allocation.

School of EducationGraduate programs in the School of Education are designed to meet the most rapid growing demands of the profession. Our certification programs are built to the high state and national content standards. We provide opportunities to practicing teachers to enhance their professional training in critical needs areas such as special education, elementary reading, ELL, instructional leadership and curriculum and instruction for elementary teachers.

School of Public Service and HealthThe School of Public Service and Health houses several of the university’s flagship programs; namely emergency and disaster management and criminal justice. It is also the home of up-and-coming programs in security management, legal studies, and public health. Our faculty combine top academic credentials with practical expertise. They include practicing attorneys, public health professionals, emergency managers, criminal justice professionals, and security managers--as well as international and national governmental and military consultants and practitioners.

School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and MathScience and technology professionals are vital to society’s continued innovation. Academic programs in this school help students cultivate the problem solving, creative, and technological skills necessary for advancements in their chosen field – whether it be pursuing innovations in environmental policy, space studies, or one of the many professions within the information technology field.

School of Security and Global StudiesThe programs taught in the School of Security and Global Studies truly embody our motto, “Educating Those Who Serve.” Students with majors in this school have an understanding of the world—appreciating differences in political, economic, and social cultures. Our faculty members are highly-credentialed and respected leaders in their fields, and many of them currently work in the U.S. government and in the U.S. intelligence community. Our graduates are employed in leadership positions at agencies ranging from the Departments of State, Defense, and Homeland Security to the intelligence services, as well as private businesses throughout the world.

AMU_DefenseStandard_0414.indd 1 4/29/14 4:01 PM

4 MERG Spring 2015

MILITARY& VETERANS

TRAINS

From the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building, through 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and hundreds of other disasters natural or manmade, America has learned many lessons. One of the biggest, is that when it is time to respond, to save lives, no asset should be spared, whether it be civilian, government or military. Each has a unique set of skills and tools that can complement each other. Your military experience has taught you that for success to be achieved, those who take on the mission together must train together. When the unthinkable has happened, there is no time to “work out the kinks”. TEEX offers education and certification through state of the art training and facilities that will enable you to better serve the Nation and your community when you are needed most.

• Fire Officer

• Hazardous Materials

• Fire Instructor

• Fire Inspector

• Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting

• Telecommunications

• Driver Operator

for MILITARY“Good work soldier”…Your military service is complete. But your desire to serve, to make a difference…that will never go away. Finding a new career at a time when veterans are entering the workforce in historic numbers is a tough mission. Finding a career that uses your military skills, talents and determination that also satisfies your desire to serve, may seem impossible. TEEX is committed to supporting your new mission. We will help you utilize the GI Bill and other programs earned through your service, to attain the skills and certifications to get jobs, be successful and continue to make a difference.

• Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Technician Level 1

• Demining

• Heavy Equipment Operator for Ordnance Workers

• Basic Peace Officer

• Certified Safety and Health Official (CSHO) – Construction

• Certified Safety and Health Official (CSHO) – General Industry

• Recruit Fire Training Academy

for VETERANS

C15.7821.09

teex.org

5Spring 2015 MERG

MILITARY& VETERANS

TRAINS

From the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building, through 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and hundreds of other disasters natural or manmade, America has learned many lessons. One of the biggest, is that when it is time to respond, to save lives, no asset should be spared, whether it be civilian, government or military. Each has a unique set of skills and tools that can complement each other. Your military experience has taught you that for success to be achieved, those who take on the mission together must train together. When the unthinkable has happened, there is no time to “work out the kinks”. TEEX offers education and certification through state of the art training and facilities that will enable you to better serve the Nation and your community when you are needed most.

• Fire Officer

• Hazardous Materials

• Fire Instructor

• Fire Inspector

• Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting

• Telecommunications

• Driver Operator

for MILITARY“Good work soldier”…Your military service is complete. But your desire to serve, to make a difference…that will never go away. Finding a new career at a time when veterans are entering the workforce in historic numbers is a tough mission. Finding a career that uses your military skills, talents and determination that also satisfies your desire to serve, may seem impossible. TEEX is committed to supporting your new mission. We will help you utilize the GI Bill and other programs earned through your service, to attain the skills and certifications to get jobs, be successful and continue to make a difference.

• Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Technician Level 1

• Demining

• Heavy Equipment Operator for Ordnance Workers

• Basic Peace Officer

• Certified Safety and Health Official (CSHO) – Construction

• Certified Safety and Health Official (CSHO) – General Industry

• Recruit Fire Training Academy

for VETERANS

C15.7821.09

teex.org

6 MERG Spring 2015

Whether you’re looking to take classes on campus or online, Texas Tech University is here for you. We take great pride in the fact that we currently have nearly 2000 students who are veterans or family members of veterans. We also have more than 250 faculty & staff who have served. The number one priority at Texas Tech is you earning your degree. Thank you for your service and dedication to our country during its time of need. Be proud of who you are, be proud of what you do, and be proud of what you will continue to do in the future. From Here, It’s Possible!

We are serving those who have served.

green zone

milit

ary friendly area

of o

peration

mvp.ttu.edu

Look for this Green Zone symbol across campus to connect with advocates who have been trained to assist service members.

WWW.MVP.TTU.EDU

Texas Tech University is a proud recipient of the following awards:

Daniel AyalaClassification: Sophomore Major: Electrical EngineeringBranch: US Army Rank: E-6/SSG

After serving seven years in the U.S. Army, as bomb disposal, getting out and going back to school while raising a newborn was a nightmare. Thanks to the resources, like the Veterans Association of Texas Tech and the Military & Veterans Programs Office available at Texas Tech, I was able to have a smooth transition into the college setting. In return, I try to be an active member of those organizations that helped me transition to help other veterans and family members achieve their educational goals. I truly believe in our motto that “From here it’s possible” and I try to spread that message to others.

Maria E. FloresClassification: Junior Major: ManagementBranch: US Navy Ret. Rank: EM1

Since my time here at Texas Tech I have been able to appreciate what being in the military and serving my country really means. Working at the MVP office and being a student here at Texas Tech has allowed me to help others who have served the military finish their education and also help the dependents of veterans complete their life dream. I believe that being a Texas Tech student and working at the MVP office has helped me grow as a person and an American.

Student Highlights

facebook.com/TTUMVP

7Spring 2015 MERG

Whether you’re looking to take classes on campus or online, Texas Tech University is here for you. We take great pride in the fact that we currently have nearly 2000 students who are veterans or family members of veterans. We also have more than 250 faculty & staff who have served. The number one priority at Texas Tech is you earning your degree. Thank you for your service and dedication to our country during its time of need. Be proud of who you are, be proud of what you do, and be proud of what you will continue to do in the future. From Here, It’s Possible!

We are serving those who have served.

green zone

milit

ary friendly area

of o

peration

mvp.ttu.edu

Look for this Green Zone symbol across campus to connect with advocates who have been trained to assist service members.

WWW.MVP.TTU.EDU

Texas Tech University is a proud recipient of the following awards:

Daniel AyalaClassification: Sophomore Major: Electrical EngineeringBranch: US Army Rank: E-6/SSG

After serving seven years in the U.S. Army, as bomb disposal, getting out and going back to school while raising a newborn was a nightmare. Thanks to the resources, like the Veterans Association of Texas Tech and the Military & Veterans Programs Office available at Texas Tech, I was able to have a smooth transition into the college setting. In return, I try to be an active member of those organizations that helped me transition to help other veterans and family members achieve their educational goals. I truly believe in our motto that “From here it’s possible” and I try to spread that message to others.

Maria E. FloresClassification: Junior Major: ManagementBranch: US Navy Ret. Rank: EM1

Since my time here at Texas Tech I have been able to appreciate what being in the military and serving my country really means. Working at the MVP office and being a student here at Texas Tech has allowed me to help others who have served the military finish their education and also help the dependents of veterans complete their life dream. I believe that being a Texas Tech student and working at the MVP office has helped me grow as a person and an American.

Student Highlights

facebook.com/TTUMVP

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Secretary of Veterans AffairsRobert A. McDonald serves as the eighth Secretary of Veterans Affairs

Post-9/11 GI Bill: Payment rates

Meet the VA’s Under Secretary for BenefitsAllison A. Hickey is an Air Force veteran

VA benefits: How to maximize them

Post-9/11 GI Bill: The basics

Post-9/11 GI Bill: How to use it

Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty: The facts

Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve: The facts

Yellow Ribbon Program: How to use it

VA Work-Study Program: Earn while you learn

Fully Developed Claim: How to file

MILITARY EDUCATION RESOURCE GUIDE

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64

FRANCHISE GUIDE

LOUDER THAN WORDS

ON THE COVER

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56

62

64-81

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Ready to be your own boss?Check in with some veterans who jumped boots-first into franchising.

By Bryan Mitchell

Franchising: The basics

Franchise Financing: An SBA guide

Tactical Photo Gallery

Final Frame

Opening a franchise: What’s involved?

Franchising: The economic outlook

Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class

Justin Smelle

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Victor Glover greets his daughters at the Naval Air Facility Atsugi during the first part of the squadron’s homecoming celebration in Atsugi, Japan.

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By M. Todd Hunter

WASHINGTON – As the United States’ longest war winds

down, tens of thousands of American veterans are returning

home to a war-weary, yet grateful nation. Welcome home

ceremonies, yellow ribbons, and smiling families reunited

with their fathers, mothers, sons and daughters are staples

throughout military installations and communities across the

country. And while many returning troops continue serving

after coming home from their deployments, others will hang up

their boots to pursue additional life goals.

But reintegrating back into society can present numerous

challenges for these returning veterans, some of whom battle

various physical, mental, or emotional wounds as a result of

their military service.

Fortunately, numerous federal government policies and

programs exist to assist these service members with the tools

they need to move on from war. However, many of those policies

and programs fail to address the unique needs of a specifi c, yet

growing demographic of brave American veterans: Women.

Currently, women make up 20 percent of new recruits,

14.5 percent of the 1.4 million active-duty service members,

and 18 percent of the 850,000 reservists. Approximately

280,000 women have served in either Iraq or Afghanistan since

9/11. And, because of signifi cant U.S. military downsizing, it

is estimated that 11 percent of the veteran population will be

females by 2020.

“At a time when the number of women veterans is

growing to unprecedented levels, our country is simply not

doing enough to meet their health, social, and economic

needs,” said Joy J. Ilem, DAV’s deputy national legislative

director.

To highlight these shortcomings, DAV released

a report entitled Women Veterans: The Long Journey

Home, September 24. The landmark report is the most

comprehensive assessment conducted to date of the policies,

programs, and cultures across multiple federal agencies to see

how female veterans were treated upon returning home.

Women Veterans: The Long Journey Home paints a

compelling picture of the Departments of Veterans Affairs

(VA), Defense, Labor, and Housing and Urban Development

consistent failure to understand the differences in how men

and women are impacted by military service and deployments.

Such differences explored in the report include health

care, military sexual trauma, education, transition assistance,

employment, disability compensation, housing, and culture

change to name a few.

From this variety of issues, DAV identifi es and offers

27 key policy and programmatic change recommendations

ranging from the requirement that every VA medical center

hire a gynecologist, to creating gender-sensitive mental health

programs, to developing education and career guidance

programs for women veterans, and establishing female-only

transition support groups.

“DAV commissioned this report to shed light on the

unique challenges facing women as they transition out of

military service,” explained DAV Washington Headquarters

Executive Director Garry J. Augustine. “While the study shows

there are still large gaps to fi ll, it also establishes a clear path

forward for elected leaders, policymakers, and public and

private entities to ensure women veterans receive the benefi ts

and services they earned and deserve.”

It is now up to those elected leaders and policymakers to

follow the path set forth by DAV.

DAV STUDY HIGHLIGHTING WOMEN VETERANS’ ISSUES PAVES WAY FOR CHANGE

DAV.ORG/WomenVeterans

17Spring 2015 MERG

ROBERT A. MCDONALD

Secretary of

Veterans Affairs

MCDONALD WAS CONFIRMED BY THE US SENATE ON JULY 29, 2014.

As Under Secretary for Benefits, HiPrior to joining VA, Secretary McDonald was Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G). Under his leadership, P&G significantly recalibrated its

product portfolio; expanded its marketing footprint, adding nearly one billion people to its global customer base; and grew the firm’s organic sales by an

average of three percent per year. This growth was reflected in P&G’s stock price, which rose from $51.10 the day he became CEO to $81.64 on the day

his last quarterly results were announced—a 60 percent increase from 2009 to 2013.

During his tenure, P&G was widely recognized for its leader development prowess. In 2012, Chief Executive Magazine named

it the best company for developing leader talent. The Hay Group, a global management consulting firm, consistently

cited P&G in its top-tier listing of the Best Companies for Leadership Study. The company received recognition for

its environmental and social sustainability initiatives, including receipt of the Department of State’s Award

for Corporate Excellence for P&G’s operations in Pakistan and Nigeria. In addition, using the

company’s innovative water purification packets, P&G committed itself to the 2020 goal of “saving

one life every hour” by annually providing two billion liters of clean drinking water to

people in the world’s developing countries.

An Army veteran, Mr. McDonald served with the 82nd Airborne

Division; completed Jungle, Arctic, and Desert Warfare training; and earned the Ranger tab, the

Expert Infantryman Badge, and

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Senior Parachutist wings. Upon leaving military service, Captain McDonald was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.

Secretary McDonald graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in the top 2 percent of the Class of 1975. He served as the Brigade Adjutant for the Corps of Cadets and was recognized by The Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufacturing, and Commerce as the most distinguished graduate in academics, leadership, and physical education. He earned an MBA from the University of Utah in 1978.

The Secretary is personally committed to values-based leadership and to improving the lives of others. He and his wife, Diane, are the founders of the McDonald Cadet Leadership Conference at West Point—a biennial gathering that brings

together the best and brightest young minds from the best universities around the world and pairs them with senior business, NGO, and government leaders in a multi-day, interactive learning experience.

The recipient of numerous leadership awards and honorary degrees, in 2014, Secretary McDonald was awarded the Public Service Star by the President of the Republic of Singapore for his work in helping to shape Singapore’s development as an international hub for connecting global companies with Asian firms and enterprises.

Secretary McDonald and his wife are the parents of two grown children, Jennifer and Robert, and the proud grandparents of grandsons, Matthew and Michael.

President Barack Obama signs the Veterans’ Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act into law at Fort Belvoir, Va.

PHO

TO: E

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son

Secretary of Veterans Affairs

ROBERT A. MCDONALDcontinued

19Spring 2015 MERG

America’s 22 million veterans should get what they were promised. DAV helps

veterans of all ages and their families get the health, disability and financial

benefits they earned. And we connect them to vital services like claims

assistance, medical transportation and job resources. If you’re a veteran who

needs free help, or you’d like to help us keep the promise, visit DAV.org.

VETERANS FOUGHT FOR OUR WAY OF LIFE. IT’S OUR DUTY TO FIGHT FOR THEIRS.

President Barack Obama signs the Veterans’ Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act into law at Fort Belvoir, Va.

20 MERG Spring 2015

UNDER SECRETARY FOR BENEFITSAllison A. Hickey

Veterans Affairs

home loan guaranty, vocational rehabilitation and employment, and life insurance programs, and an annual budget of $76.3 billion.

Prior to her appointment, Hickey led Human Capital Management for the consulting company Accenture in their work for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency – supporting operational business processes for intelligence community organizations in the areas of customer relationship management, call center practices and 21st Century information technology systems. As the Director of the Air Force’s Future Total Force office at the Pentagon, she provided leadership and oversight for four divisions in the areas of strategic planning, mission development, public and congressional affairs and program and resource implementation for more than 140 new Air Force units. Hickey was responsible for shifting billions of dollars towards new capabilities across the Air Force portfolio and directing new organizational models for a world-wide 500,000 person organization including active duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units and personnel to create a common Air Force policy, mission, and culture – known in the

Department as the Total Force Perspective.

Prior to that assignment, Hickey served as the assistant deputy director of Strategic Planning, where she provided leadership and oversight for five divisions. She also served as chief of the Air Force Future Concepts and Transformation Division focused on the integration of technologies, organizations and concepts of operation to model for the Air Force of 2025.

Hickey is a 27-year Veteran of the Air Force having served on active duty, in the Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserve. Her Air Force career began in 1980 as a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy’s first class to include women. As a pilot and aircraft commander, she accumulated more than 1,500 hours of flight time in KC-10A, KC-135A, T-38 and T-37 aircraft. She is the daughter of retired Lt. Gen. William J. Hilsman, a Vietnam Army Veteran, and Jean Hilsman, who served as a director and past-president of the National Military Family Association and as the first Department of Defense Family Policy Office director.

Hickey is married to retired Col. Robert Hickey, a 30-year Veteran and former A-10 and C-130 pilot. She and her husband have three children.

Retired Brig. Gen. Allison A. Hickey assumed the duties of Under Secretary for Benefits at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on June 6, 2011.

As Under Secretary for Benefits, Hickey leads more than 20,000 employees in the delivery of a wide range of integrated programs of non-medical benefits and services to Veterans, their dependents and survivors. Through a nationwide network of 56 regional offices, special processing centers, and VBA Headquarters, she directs the administration of VA’s disability compensation, pension, education,

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Aviation Machinist’s Mate Airman John-Ray Dacara performs pre-flight checks on an F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadran (VFA) 41 aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74).

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HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR VA BENEFITSIf you’re new to VA, it can be overwhelming to sift

through all of the benefits and services offered and choose which ones are best for you and your family.

Here is a quick “how to” guide for VA benefits.

VA benefits can be split into two general categories – health care and non-medical benefits like compensation, education and home loans. If you served on active military service and were separated under any condition other than dishonorable, you may qualify for VA health care benefits. Post-9/11 Combat Veterans (OEF/OIF/OND) are eligible for five years of cost-free care for illness and injury related to service and one-time dental care.

The second category, non-medical VA benefits, is broken into six areas: Compensation, Education, Home Loans, Insurance, Pension & Fiduciary; and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment.

COMPENSATION VA’s disability claims process is currently undergoing a major transformation, including the creation of more than 40 new initiatives designed to decrease processing time and increase accuracy and service for service members, veterans, their families and survivors. VA is moving toward an electronic, rather than a paper-based, system and toward the goal of eliminating the veterans disability claims backlog and improving rating accuracy to 98% in 2015. The new Fully Developed Claims (FDC) program is now the fastest way to get your compensation or pension claim processed.

EDUCATIONMany service members choose to use VA’s education benefits shortly after leaving service or pass the benefits to family members. In addition to undergraduate and graduate degrees, the Post-9/11 GI Bill offers financial assistance for a variety of training programs, including: vocational/technical, on-the-job, flight and licensing/certification programs.

In addition to tuition and fees, veterans may qualify for a monthly housing allowance and book stipend. The Vet Success on Campus program on school campuses across the country helps connect veterans with other student veterans and a variety of VA services, including free tutoring. VA’s Veterans Retraining and Assistance Program (VRAP) offers 12 months of training to unemployed veterans 35 to 60 years old.

HOME LOANSAnother frequently used VA benefit is the guaranteed home loan and refinancing assistance. VA also offers special grants for disabled veterans to adapt and acquire housing suitable for their needs.

INSURANCEService Members and Veterans Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage recipients have two options available to them upon release from service: converting to the Veterans’ Group Life Insurance program or a permanent plan with one of the participating commercial insurance companies.

VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND EMPLOYMENTVA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program assists veterans with service-connected disabilities to prepare for, find, and keep suitable jobs. Benefits include vocational counseling, on the job training and apprenticeships.

More information on all of VA’s benefits and services can be found at www.va.gov.

Content provided by the VA.

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Lt. Cmdr. Troy Brown, executive officer of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4, greets his family on the flight line at Naval Base Ventura Country following his return to homeport.

24 MERG Spring 2015

THE POST-9/11 GI BILLThe Post-9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for

education and housing to individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service after Sept. 10, 2001, or

individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. You must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Here is some basic information on eligibility and other questions about the bill.

Am I eligible?

You may be eligible if you served at least 90 aggregate days on active duty after Sept. 10, 2001, or were honorably discharged from active duty for a service-connected disability after serving 30 continuous days following September 10, 2001.

Note: Children of a member of the Armed Forces who died in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001, may be eligible for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits under the Marine Gunnery John David Fry Scholarship Program.

What will I receive?

You may receive a percentage of the following payments:

--A Tuition and Fee payment that is paid to your school on your behalf.--A Books and Supplies Stipend of up to $1,000 per year. --A Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA)** that is equal to:

• The basic allowance for housing (BAH)payable for the zip code of your school to a military E-5 with dependents for students pursuing resident training.

• one-half the BAH national average for students training solely by distance learning.

• the national average BAH for students pursuing training at foreign schools.

**The MHA is not payable to individuals on active duty or those enrolled at half time or less.

How many months of assistance can I receive and how long am I eligible?

Generally, you may receive up to 36 months of entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. You will be eligible for benefits for 15 years from your last period of active duty of at least 90 consecutive days.

What kind of training can I take?

You can use the Post-9/11 GI Bill at colleges, universities, trade schools, and for on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and light schools. To see what programs are currently approved for VA benefits, go to www.gibill.va.gov.

You can use the Post-9/11 GI Bill for tutorial assistance, licensing (attorney license, cosmetology license, etc.) and certification tests (SAT, LSAT, etc.).

Note: If the program you are interested in isn’t on the GI Bill website, contact your State Approving Agency (list available on www.gibill.va.gov) to see if it can be approved.

Can I transfer my entitlement to my dependents?

You must be a member of the uniformed services to transfer your unused benefits to your spouse or dependent(s). Generally, you must agree to serve four more years when transferring benefits.

What Is the Yellow Ribbon program?

The Post-9/11 GI Bill can cover all in-state tuition and fees at public degree-granting schools, but may not cover all private degree-granting schools and out-of-state tuition. The Yellow Ribbon program provides additional support in those situations.

Institutions voluntarily enter into an agreement with VA to fund uncovered charges. VA matches each dollar of unmet charges the institution agrees to contribute, up to the total cost of the tuition and fees.


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27Spring 2015 MERG

28 MERG Spring 2015

POST-9/11 GI BILL:HOW TO USE IT

The Post-9/11 GI Bill, enacted in 2008, is the most extensive educational assistance program authorized since the original GI Bill was signed into

law in 1944. Just as the original GI Bill allowed veterans to take their educational opportunities and leverage them for breakthroughs in automation, business, medicine, science, transportation and technology, today’s Post-9/11 GI Bill provides veterans with the tools that will help them contribute to an economically strong, vibrant and resilient America.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill is a comprehensive education benefit, paying tuition and fees on behalf of veterans or eligible dependents directly to the schools in which they are enrolled. Eligible participants also receive a monthly housing allowance and up to $1,000 annually for books and supplies. GI Bill benefits are tiered based on the number of days served on active duty, giving activated National Guard and Reserve members the same benefits as those on active duty.

VA is committed to ensuring all service members, veterans, and family members eligible for the benefit receive a useful education without the burden of substantial student loan debt as they readjust to civilian life. As of July 9, 2013, VA has issued over $30 billion in Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit payments to approximately 992,000 individuals and their educational institutions.

Executive Order 13607 directs VA, the Department of Defense (DoD), and Department of Education, with help from the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), to develop and implement “Principles of Excellence” to strengthen oversight, enforcement and accountability within veteran and military educational benefit programs.

The Principles of Excellence are a set of guidelines with which institutions receiving federal funding agree to comply. The principles were designed to help ensure that students are given the right tools to assist them in making informed

decisions when choosing a school. The principles also seek to help protect veterans, service members, and their families from aggressive and deceptive marketing tactics.

Schools agreeing to comply with the principles will:

• Provide all military and veteran students with a personalized form covering the total cost of the educational program, pre-enrollment program costs, student debt estimates, and financial aid options.

• Provide an educational plan for all military and veteran students.

• Accommodate service members and reservists who are absent due to service requirements.

• Designate points of contact for academic and financial advising

• Ensure accreditation of all new programs prior to enrolling students.

Participating schools also agree to have tuition refund policies similar to schools receiving Title IV funding. This means that service members, reservists and family members who stop attending school due to service obligations will be entitled to a prorated tuition refund based upon the day the student stops attending.

To date, over 6,000 schools have agreed to adhere to the Principles of Excellence. VA has made it easy to identify participating schools by setting up a map on the GI Bill website to help find schools near you.

Additional tools for student veterans can be found at www.gibill.va.gov.


28 MERG Spring 2015


PHO

TO: Sgt. Valerie Eppler

Over 130 Marines from 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion and nine Marines from Marine Unmanned

Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 met with family, friends and coworkers upon their return to Camp Pendleton, Calif.

30 MERG Spring 2015

HOW TO USE YOURPOST-9/11 GI BILL BENEFITSApproved training under the Post-9/11 GI Bill

includes graduate and undergraduate degrees, vocational/technical training, on-the-job training,

flight training, correspondence training, licensing and national testing programs, entrepreneurship training, and tutorial assistance. All training programs must be approved for GI Bill benefits.

This benefit provides up to 36 months of education benefits, generally benefits are payable for 15 years following your release from active duty. The Post-9/11 GI Bill also offers some service members the opportunity to transfer their GI Bill to dependents.

Some of the benefits the Post-9/11 GI Bill will pay include:

--Full tuition and fees directly to the school for all public school in-state students. For those attending private or foreign schools tuition & fees are capped at the national maximum rate.

If you are attending a private Institution of Higher Learning in Arizona, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina or Texas you may be eligible for a higher tuition reimbursement rate.

For those attending a more expensive private school or a public school as a non-resident out-of-state student, a program exists which may help to reimburse the difference. This program is called the “Yellow Ribbon Program”.

--A monthly housing allowance (MHA).--An annual books & supplies stipend.--A one-time rural benefit payment.

As of Aug. 1, 2011, break (or interval pay) is no longer be payable under Post-9/11 GI Bill except during periods your school is closed as a result of an Executive Order of the President or an emergency (such as a natural disaster or strike). For example, if your Fall term ends on Dec. 15 and your Spring term begins Jan. 10, your January housing allowance will cover 15 days in December and your February housing allowance will cover 21 days in January.


30 MERG Spring 2015

(Right) U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Handling Airman Danielle M. Jones studies

for the upcoming advancement exam.


PHO

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POST-9/11 GI BILL PAYMENTRATES FOR 2014 ACADEMIC YEAR

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The Post-9/11 GI Bill program is comprised of multiple payments. All payments and maximum amounts listed on this page are applicable to individuals eligible for the full benefit (100% eligibility tier). If you are not eligible for the full benefit, the payment and maximum amounts listed will be prorated based on your eligibility percentage.

Under the Post-9/11 GI Bill you may receive a:

• Tuition & fee payment sent directly to the school• Monthly housing allowance sent to you• Books and supplies stipend sent to you• One-time rural benefit for certain veterans• Tuition and fee payments

Maximum Tuition & Fee Reimbursement per Academic Year

Type of School Maximum reimbursement

Public School All tuition & fee payments for an in-state student

Private or Foreign School Up to $19,198.31 per academic year national maximum (see next table for exceptions)

Tuition & Fee Reimbursements, Selected States

Maximum tuition & fee reimbursement per academic year for students attending a private IHLin selected states and have been enrolled in the same program since Jan. 4, 2011

State Maximum Charge per Credit Hour Maximum Total Fees per Term

Arizona $725.00 $15,000.00

Michigan $1,001.00 $19,374.50

New Hampshire $1,003.75 $5,197.00

New York $1,010.00 $12,293.00

Pennsylvania $934.00 $6,110.00

South Carolina $829.00 $2,798.00

Texas $1,549.00 $12,130.00

Note: If you are attending a public IHL as a non-resident student or a private IHL that is more expensive than the annual cap, you may be eligible for extra payment under the Yellow Ribbon program.

You may also be eligible to receive:

• monthly housing allowance sent to you• books and supplies stipend sent to you• one-time rural benefit for certain veterans

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Non-College Degree Granting Institutions

Actual net costs for in-state tuition & fees not to exceed $19,198.31 during the academic year. You may also be eligible to receive:

• a monthly housing allowance sent to you• a books and supplies stipend sent to you• a one-time rural benefit for certain veterans

Apprenticeship / OJT RatesApprenticeship and On-the-Job Training

Training Period Monthly rateFirst six months of training 100% of your applicable MHASecond six months of training 80% of your applicable MHAThird six months of training 60% of your applicable MHAFourth six months of training 40% of your applicable MHARemaining pursuit of training 20% of your applicable MHA

You may also be eligible to receive:

• a books and supplies stipend sent to you


34 MERG Spring 2015

FACTS ABOUT THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL ACTIVE DUTY (MGIB-AD)

The MGIB program provides up to 36 months of education benefits. This benefit may be used for degree and certificate programs, flight training,

apprenticeship/on-the-job training and correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances. Generally, benefits are payable for 10 years following your release from active duty. This program is also commonly known as Chapter 30.

$600 Buy-Up Program

Some service members may contribute up to an additional $600 to the GI Bill to receive increased monthly benefits. For an additional $600 contribution, you may receive up to $5,400 in additional GI Bill benefits. The additional contribution must be made while on active duty. For more information contact your personnel or payroll office.

Who is Eligible?

You may be an eligible veteran if you have an Honorable Discharge, AND you have a High School Diploma or GED or in some cases 12 hours of college credit, AND you meet the requirements of one of the categories below:

The Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible veterans for:

• College• Technical or vocational courses• Correspondence courses• Apprenticeship/job training• Flight training• High-tech training• Licensing & certification tests• Entrepreneurship training• Certain entrance examinations

CATEGORY I

• Entered active duty for the first time after June 30, 1985

• Had military pay reduced by $100 a month for first 12 months

• Continuously served for 3 years, OR 2 years if that is what you first enlisted for, OR 2 years if

you entered the Selected Reserve within a year of leaving active duty and served 4 years (“2 by 4” Program)

CATEGORY II

• Entered active duty before Jan. 1, 1977• Served at least 1 day between 10/19/84 and

6/30/85, and stayed on active duty through 6/30/88, (or 6/30/87 if you entered the Selected Reserve within 1 year of leaving active duty and served 4 years)

• On 12/31/89, you had entitlement left from Vietnam-Era GI Bill

CATEGORY III

• Not eligible for MGIB under Category I or II• On active duty on 9/30/90 AND separated

involuntarily after 2/2/91,• OR involuntarily separated on or after 11/30/93,• OR voluntarily separated under either the

Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI) or Special Separation Benefit (SSB) program

• Before separation, you had military pay reduced by $1200

CATEGORY IV

• On active duty on 10/9/96 AND you had money remaining in a VEAP account on that date AND you elected MGIB by 10/9/97

• OR entered full-time National Guard duty under title 32, USC, between 7/1/85, and 11/28/89 AND you elected MGIB during the period 10/9/96, through 7/8/97

• Had military pay reduced by $100 a month for 12 months or made a $1200 lump-sum contribution

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How Much Does VA Pay?

The monthly benefit paid to you is based on the type of training you take, length of your service, your category, and if DoD put extra money in your MGIB Fund (called “kickers”). You usually have 10 years to use your MGIB benefits, but the time limit can be less, in some cases, and longer under certain circumstances.

How Can I Apply?

You can apply by filling out VA Form 22-1990, Application for Education Benefits.

Beginning August 1, 2011, break (or interval pay) will no longer be payable under MGIB-AD except during periods your school is closed as a result of an Executive Order of the President or an emergency (such as a natural disaster or strike). For example, if your Fall term ends on Dec. 15 and your Spring term begins Jan. 10, your January housing allowance will cover 15 days in December and your February housing allowance will cover 21 days in January.


35Spring 2015 MERG

U.S. Navy Aviation Machinist’s Mate Airman Aida Roxas studies aviation warfare material.

PHO

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36 MERG Spring 2015

FACTS ABOUT THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL SELECTED RESERVE (MGIB-SR)

The MGIB-SR program may be available to you if you are a member of the Selected Reserve. The Selected Reserve includes the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve,

Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve and Coast Guard Reserve, and the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard.

You may use this education assistance program for degree programs, certificate or correspondence courses, cooperative training, independent study programs, apprenticeship/on-the-job training, and vocational flight training programs. Remedial, refresher and deficiency training are available under certain circumstances.

Eligibility for this program is determined by the Selected Reserve components. VA makes the payments for this program. You may be entitled to receive up to 36 months of education benefits. Your eligibility for the program normally ends on the day you leave the Selected Reserve.

One exception to this rule exists if you are mobilized (or recalled to active duty from your reserve status). In this case your eligibility may be extended for the amount of time you are mobilized PLUS four months. For example, if you are mobilized for 12 months your eligibility period is extended for 16 months (12 months active duty PLUS 4 months.) So even if you leave the reserves after mobilization, you may have additional eligibility to the MGIB-SR.

If your unit is deactivated during the period beginning on Oct. 1, 2007, through Sept. 30, 2014, or you are involuntarily separated for reasons other than misconduct, you will retain your original period of eligibility, which is 14 years from the date of your first six-year obligation with the selected reserves.

Eligibility

To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a six-year obligation to serve in the Selected Reserve signed after June 30, 1985. If you are an officer, you must have agreed to serve six years in addition to your original obligation. For some types of training, it is necessary to have a six-year

commitment that begins after September 30, 1990.• Complete your initial active duty for training (IADT).• Meet the requirement to receive a high school

diploma or equivalency certificate before completing IADT. You may not use 12 hours toward a college degree to meet this requirement.

• Remain in good standing while serving in an active Selected Reserve unit. You will also retain MGIB - SR eligibility if you were discharged from Selected Reserve service due to a disability that was not caused by misconduct. Your eligibility period may be extended if you are ordered to active duty.

How to Apply

Your unit will give you a DD Form 2384-1, Notice of Basic Eligibility, when you become eligible for the program. Your unit will also code your eligibility into the Department of Defense personnel system so that VA may verify your eligibility.

You should then make sure that your selected program is approved for VA training. If you are not clear on this point, VA will inform you and the school or company about the requirements.

Obtain and complete VA Form 22-1990, Application for Education Benefits. Send it to the VA regional office with jurisdiction over the State where you will train.If you have started training, take your application and your Notice of Basic Eligibility to your school or employer. Ask them to complete VA Form 22-1999, (not available online) Enrollment Certification, and send all the forms to VA.

Beginning August 1, 2011, break (or interval pay) will no longer be payable under MGIB-SR except during periods your school is closed as a result of an Executive Order of the President or an emergency (such as a

36 MERG Spring 2015

37Spring 2015 MERG

natural disaster or strike). For example, if your Fall term ends on Dec. 15 and your Spring term begins Jan. 10, your January housing allowance will cover 15 days in December and your February housing allowance will cover 21 days in January.

Numbers to Call

Call 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) Be advised this line only accepts calls from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. central time Monday - Friday and you may experience long hold times.

If you are overseas you can contact the VA via telephone during business hours, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time.

Students and School Certifying Officials calling from outside the United States may call the Buffalo Regional Office at 716-857-3196 or 716-857-3197. Once connected, the caller can immediately enter “option 1” to be placed in a special priority queue. This is not a toll-free number, but the caller will be routed to the next available Customer Service Representative for priority service.

This is for overseas customers only. All others should call the toll-free number or contact the VA via the website.


37Spring 2015 MERG

U.S. Navy Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Angela M. Roberts studies for an advancement exam aboard aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), in the Atlantic Ocean.

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38 MERG Spring 2015

THE YELLOW RIBBON PROGRAM AND HOW TO USE IT

The Post-9/11 GI Bill will pay you:

• all resident tuition & fees for a public school• the lower of the actual tuition & fees or the national

maximum per academic year for a private school• an exception to this exists for students enrolled

in private schools in Arizona, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina or Texas. In these cases the VA will pay the lower of the actual tuition & fees or the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition & fees.

Your actual tuition & fees costs may exceed these amounts if you are attending a private school or are attending a public school as a nonresident student. Institutions of higher learning (degree-granting Institutions) may elect to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program to make additional funds available for your education program without an additional charge to your GI Bill entitlement.

Institutions that voluntarily enter into a Yellow Ribbon Agreement with VA choose the amount of tuition and fees that will be contributed. VA will match that amount and issue payment directly to the institution.

Eligibility

Only veterans entitled to the maximum benefit rate (based on service requirements) or their designated transferees may receive this funding. Active-duty service members and their spouses are not eligible for this program (child transferees of active-duty service members may be eligible if the service member is qualified at the 100% rate).

Therefore, you may be eligible if:

• You served an aggregate period of active duty after Sept. 10, 2001, of at least 36 months;

• You were honorably discharged from active duty for a service-connected disability and you served 30 continuous days after Sept. 10, 2001;

• You are a dependent eligible for Transfer of Entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill based on a veteran’s service under the eligibility criteria listed above.

• To receive benefits under the Yellow Ribbon Program:• You must be eligible for the maximum benefit rate

under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.• You must not be on active duty or a spouse transferee

of an active-duty member.• Your school must agree to participate in the Yellow

Program.• Your school must have not offered Yellow Ribbon to

more than the maximum number of individuals stated in their participation agreement.

• Your school must certify your enrollment to VA, including Yellow Ribbon program information.


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40 MERG Spring 2015

EARN WHILE YOU LEARN:VA’S WORK-STUDY PROGRAM

40 MERG Spring 2015

VA’s work study program gives student-veterans the opportunity for hands-on work experience and a monthly part-time income while they are going

back to school as part of the Post-9/11 GI Bill or other VA education benefit program.

Through the VA-work study program, veterans who are three-quarter or full-time students in a college degree, vocational or professional program can “earn while they learn” with a VA work-study allowance. Students with service-connected disabilities of 30% or greater are given priority consideration in the program. Work-study students perform work related to the VA, including at education institutions, VA facilities, DOD facilities and state Veterans agencies.

As executive director of the Utah Department of Veterans Affairs, Terry Schow has hired and worked with dozens of student-veterans over the past 10 years. His work-study trainees have come from a variety of education institutions, including the University of Utah, Salt Lake City Community College, Weber State University and Utah Valley University; and have gone on to continue their service in the veterans community through careers in

the field including as public affairs officers for VA medical centers, with veterans service organizations including Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and at VA’s Salt Lake City Regional Office.

Through Terry’s work-study opportunity, student-veterans have the opportunity to learn all sides of the business while working with his staff – from direct outreach to veterans through planning and attending outreach events to answering calls and letters from veterans looking for more information on their VA and state veterans benefits. One recent work-study participant was hired full time for the state agency after he designed and launched a veterans database for the department.

Why does Terry utilize VA’s work-study program to help hire student-veterans? Because they understand the mission of his office in the Utah State Department of Veterans Affairs and are comfortable working on a team. “There’s camaraderie between veterans,” which make them a key asset to the team, he says.


A Wyoming Youth Challenge cadet works on computer applications classwork at Eastern Wyoming College in Torrington, Wyo.

PHO

TO: 1st Lt. C

hristian Venhuizen

41Spring 2015 MERG

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42 MERG Spring 2015

GET THE FASTEST CLAIM DECISION:HOW TO FILE A FULLY DEVELOPED CLAIM

The Fully Developed Claims (FDC) program is an optional new initiative that offers veterans, service members and survivors faster decisions from VA on

compensation, pension, and survivor benefit claims.

When veterans, service members and survivors submit all required records and documentation at the time they make their claim and certify that they have no further evidence, VA can review and process the claim more quickly. Here’s how:

Why submit a Fully Developed Claim (FDC)?

You get a faster decision because it saves VA time. When you file a claim, the law requires VA to make an exhaustive search on your behalf to obtain service records and other relevant evidence held by federal agencies and requires VA to ask at least twice for relevant evidence held by private parties, unless they are received on the first request. By submitting all your evidence with your FDC, identifying any relevant records held by federal agencies and verifying that you have no more evidence to submit, you shave a lot of the wait time off the process.

There is no risk in filing an FDC. If VA finds that there is a piece of relevant evidence you did not submit, but should have included (like private medical records), VA will obtain that evidence on your behalf and process your claim the traditional way.

What kind of records do you need to submit?

Military personnel and treatment records are vital to establishing your claim for compensation. Military personnel records can contain deployment orders, pay records, medals and certificates not reflected on the DD-214. Other federal records, like those from Social Security Administration (SSA), are often necessary too – they may contain medical evidence and sometimes even evidence as to the cause of a disability.

Non-federal records, like medical files from your private doctor, are also important to establishing a claim. These can tell VA the degree of your condition, if it has become

worse over time and general information needed for rating purposes.

How do I file an FCD?

Go on to the Internet and log on to your eBenefits account. Click Apply for Benefits and then Apply for Disability Compensation. eBenefits will guide you through the process. You can answer the questions and upload all your supporting evidence all at once, or you can start and save your claim online, collect your supporting evidence and log back in to finish applying.

Once you hit Save, you have one year to return to eBenefits, upload your evidence and click Submit. Don’t forget to save – in many cases VA may be able to pay benefits as early as the date you first save that application. Your Veterans Service Officer can also log into the Stakeholder Enterprise Portal – a VSO’s window into your eBenefits account – to look over your claim and give you advice before you press Submit.

Once you have collected all your supporting evidence, log back into eBenefits and upload all your documents. There is no limit to number of documents you can upload, but each file must be 5 megabytes or smaller (about 150 black-and-white pages at 300 dpi resolution). Once you verify that you have no more evidence, VA can start processing your claim right away. If you do submit more evidence after you submit the claim, VA will remove your claim from the FDC program and process it through our regular channels. For more tips on submitting your claim, click here.

The FDC program is the fastest way to get an accurate decision on your VA claim. By ensuring you submit all your evidence with your claim, you allow the VA to get you an accurate decision as quickly as possible.


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44 MERG Spring 2015

Nearing the end of my active duty service, my mind gravitated to confidently overtaking the civilian sector during my TAPS (Transition Assistance Program) class. TAPS is a program that helps Marines acclimate in to civilian life. Six months of looking for a job with no takers and 14 resume revisions, put me in my place.

However, through some keenly strategized interviews, I was eventually able to snag a security administrator position with the Booz Allen Hamilton consulting firm, keeping me in the field I know best: security. Through the years I worked in lonely SCIFs and later became a Contract Special Security Officer and

Facility Security Officer with Rincon Research Corporation. I had built a distinguished rapport in the northern Virginia and DC area. Though the jobs were excellent and I truly loved the security industry, I wanted to move back to my childhood home in southern Kentucky. However, SCIFs and agencies aren’t quite as prevalent in a small rural area, so I hatched the idea to start my own business.

As I drudged through school websites with business programs to utilize my Post 9/11 G.I. Bill, my mother one day brought to my attention Lockmasters Security Institute. My area didn’t have a local locksmith so the market was wide open for the venture. I can only assume the sound proofing material in my secured area functioned correctly, because no one from adjacent floors complained about hooting and celebrative OORAH’s coursing through my SCIF. My excitement and anxiety only intensified

after a phone call to the school’s director, Deanna DeBorde. She confirmed that my Post 9/11 G.I. Bill benefits were an approved

payment method for my tuition.

With a packed-to-capacity UHAUL truck and a 13 hour drive, my thoughts often tracked around the lingering question; “Can

this school really properly equip me with the skills I need for the locksmith trade?”

On October 24, 2011, my 28th birthday, I walked into the Professional Locksmithing class for the first time

with very little knowledge of locking systems, period. By the end of the 2 week course I was picking (or at least attempting) every lock I could get my hands on. I was instantly addicted and even more intrigued by the Lockmasters organization. It didn’t take long before I had taken almost every course in the catalog. Pro-lock, Pro-lock 2, Emergency Vehicle Opening, Safe Deposit, Safe Penetration, Access Control, Safe Lock Servicing, Safe Lock Manipulation, Tactical Entry, GSA Technician and Inspector

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45Spring 2015 MERG












Certification, X-09 Certification, S&G 2740 Certification… I was on a mission.

But HERE is the magic. I started passing out business cards to every business that would take one and essentially handed out over 500 business cards in a single week; and calls started coming in. First with lock outs and general rekeys for residences and businesses. I can still remember the first safe I manipulated was a Sentry straight tail piece almost identical to the one covered in class. My amazement was that I KNEW WHAT I WAS DOING! Most everything I got a call for, I had the direct knowledge. I was also invited to contact the instructors if I had a problem for advice while in the field. I had the skills and the resources I needed to not just do the job, but to excel in the market.

So from time to time new/prospective students will ask the question, “Can this school really properly equip me with the skills I need for the locksmith trade?” I can only smile when I respond to that question in an email knowing that they will see my signature block at the bottom.

Semper Fidelis,Brandon K. PowellOwner/Operator-The Leatherneck Locksmith

Content provided by LOCKMASTERS.

46 MERG Spring 2015

For more information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who complete the program and other important information, visit www.cda.edu.

In just 20 weeks, transition to an exciting, challenging, and well-paying career as a Commercial Diver/ Underwater Welder.

BUILD ON YOUR MILITARY SKILLS.

CDA TECHNICAL INSTITUTEPICK UP THE TORCH AT

CALL 8889742232 OR VISIT WWW.CDA.EDU

• Approved for Military Beneets

• Financial Aid available for those who qualify

• Learn to teach private and group lessons• Train dogs for therapy and special needs• Study canine behavior and psychology• Hands on training dogs and puppies• Help solve behavioral problems• Study AKC and UKC breeds• Become an AKC evaluator• Decoy and handler training • Personal protection dog training• How to start a dog training business

Jo-Thor’s Dog Trainers’ AcademyNear to Atlanta, GA

877-638-8399www.agooddog.com

[email protected]

47Spring 2015 MERG

48 MERG Spring 2015A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Equal Opportunity Institution.

DISCOVERyou

Programs of Study at CTC include:

BusinessAccountingBusiness Admin.ComputersLogistics/Supply ChainManagementMarketing

HealthBilling/CodingCentral SterileClinical LabEMT/ParamedicHealth Admin. Asst.Health Care Mgt.Health Info. Tech.Medical Asstg.Nurse Asst.Nursing Occupational TherapyPhysical Therapist Asst.RadiographySurgical Tech.

TechnicalAutomotive/DieselBiomedicalBldg/Facilities Maint.CosmetologyCriminal JusticeDesign/Media Prod.DraftingEarly ChildhoodEnvironmental Tech.Fire ScienceHorticultureHVACIndustrialInteriorsMotorcycle Svc.Truck drivingTV ProductionWelding

Questions? Visit our web page at

www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu/Enrollment/Veteran-student/

or email our Veteran Services Coordinator at

[email protected] or call 770-443-3612.

JOIN THE WORKFORCE SOONER!In two years or less, earn a degree, diploma, or certificate in one of 45 programs of study.

With a focus on workforce development and a commitment to relevant skills,

Chattahoochee Technical College provides students with classroom and hands-

on knowledge in the country’s leading technical, business, and healthcare fields.

Classes are available at eight campuses in Northwest Georgia, including Bartow,

Cherokee, Cobb, Paulding and Pickens counties. Many classes and programs are also

available online.

In addition to Veterans Administration benefits, students at Chattahoochee Technical

College may be eligible for additional financial aid options. Federal programs such

as Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

are both available to qualified individuals in any program. Georgia residents may

qualify for various state scholarship or grant programs, including HOPE, Strategic

Industries Workforce Development Grant (SIWDG) and others.

Discover your post-military career at Chattahoochee Technical College!

DISCOVER Your Post-Military Career at Chattahoochee Technical College!

49Spring 2015 MERG

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John

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A U.S. soldier assigned to 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) salutes his fellow soldiers while jumping out of a C-130 Hercules aircraft over a drop zone in Germany.

50 MERG Spring 2015

- Specialist Brandy PrettymanThe Grounds Guys Franchisee

The Dwyer Group® is a leader in HOME SERVICE FRANCHISING, and also the founder of VETFRAN®.• 7 nationally recognized brands serving residential and light commercial needs• Over 1,500 franchisees, many of which are veterans• Low cost of entry• Discounts offered to qualified veterans• Established systems for success

www.leadingtheserviceindustry.com

To learn more call

866-696-1504

The VetFran program with The Grounds Guys® is unparalleled. As a veteran, there are a lot of positions that don’t

exactly correlate to a skill in the outside world. So having a program that can help those veterans get back on their feet, find a business that’s right for them, and gives them the incentive to actually start their business is phenomenal.

FS-00186-MagAd-DefenseStandardREV3.indd 1 5/6/14 10:59 AM

51Spring 2015 MERG

- Specialist Brandy PrettymanThe Grounds Guys Franchisee

The Dwyer Group® is a leader in HOME SERVICE FRANCHISING, and also the founder of VETFRAN®.• 7 nationally recognized brands serving residential and light commercial needs• Over 1,500 franchisees, many of which are veterans• Low cost of entry• Discounts offered to qualified veterans• Established systems for success

www.leadingtheserviceindustry.com

To learn more call

866-696-1504

The VetFran program with The Grounds Guys® is unparalleled. As a veteran, there are a lot of positions that don’t

exactly correlate to a skill in the outside world. So having a program that can help those veterans get back on their feet, find a business that’s right for them, and gives them the incentive to actually start their business is phenomenal.

FS-00186-MagAd-DefenseStandardREV3.indd 1 5/6/14 10:59 AM

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A fter years of relocating on demand and deploying to some of the planet’s most inhospitable locales, many former military members want to take control of their post-military lives by launching a business, with all the inherent risks and rewards.

Opening a franchise – an established business that has independently operated locations – is one way to temper the risks of going it alone.

Franchises offer veterans a tried and true model for success backed by a robust support system, says Terry Hill, who manages the Veterans Franchise program for the Washington-based International Franchise Association. Fast food, shipping companies and business service operations are the most popular franchising opportunities.

“Included in the cost of purchasing a franchise are key items such as a tested business concept, training, brand recognition and the support of the parent company, which allows the new owner to focus on operations much more quickly since the start-up phase is already accomplished,” he says.

It’s difficult to quantify how many vets operate franchises, but VetFran has helped 1,500 veterans establish a franchise in roughly a decade. It can cost $20,000 or more to start a franchise, but Hill says nearly 400 franchises work with his organization to offer veteran discounts.

“The business format holds many similarities to military organizations, which require close adherence to a proven plan, teamwork and mission focus,” Hill says. “Veterans, having been exposed to a culture of discipline and training, adapt well to this structure.”

Economic challenges could be leading more veterans to consider franchises, but tightened lending standards could make it more difficult to raise the necessary capital, Hill says.

Part of VetFran’s appeal is its longstanding partnership with the Veterans Administration and the U.S. Small Business Administration, both excellent resources for those considering a franchise.

After 30 years and 30 days in an Air Force uniform and more than 4,000 combined hours in the F-15 and F-16, Steve Carey took a moment to survey

the landscape after his 2007 retirement. He had offers from defense contractors, but “nothing

that rang my bell,” he says. That’s when he turned his attention toward buying

a franchise, hoping to settle down in one location and create a legacy for his family. CertaPro Painters – a national operation with an established reputation and more than 300 outlets – caught his attention.

“I looked at restaurants and storefront operations, but this business is different in that I am out in the community interacting with homeowners and business owners,” he says. “I get to size them up while they size me up.”

His research also helped steer him toward the franchise.

“It’s not that I have a passion for painting, but I do have a passion for growing a business,” he says. “CertaPro had a corporate long-term strategy that focused on developing a national reputation as America’s No. 1 home painters, much like the Air Force’s long-term strategy to be the world’s most respected airpower.

Running a business, he said, requires leadership similar to commanding a fighter squadron. “It’s about dealing with people and issues every day.”

Hill says that type of detailed research is critical. “Although a veteran may be familiar with a certain

franchise such as a restaurant, it’s important to look beyond the tables filled with satisfied customers and get a deep understanding of the personal commitment and capital that owning such an establishment would require,” he says.

Carey’s Mobile, Ala.,-based outfit was recently named the most successful CertaPro in Alabama.

52 MERG Spring 2014

TIRED OF TAKING ORDERS?By Bryan Mitchell

Maybe it’s time to be your own boss

52 MERG Spring 2015

53Spring 2015 MERG©2014 Firehouse Subs

Join forces with one of the nation’s fastest

growing chains.Launch your American dream.

To own a franchise, visit FirehouseSubs.com/Franchising

or call 877.877.8330.

A STR ATEG IC IN IT I AT IVE OF THE INTERN AT ION AL FR ANCHISE ASSOCIAT ION S INCE 1991

FISU411474_Defense_Standard_MilitaryAd.indd 1 10/9/14 5:10 PM

54 MERG Spring 2015

Peter Turner served as a naval aviator for 20 years and was ready to keep flying following his retirement. But after taking a hard look at the

prospects for commercial pilots, Turner reconsidered. “My focus was transitioning to the airlines originally,

but that would have meant too much time away from home. With three teenagers coming up, that worried me, as did the omnipresent threat of a pink slip,” he says. “The worst part is that mergers, strikes or worse are beyond your control.”

Research, not love of donuts or piping-hot coffee, led him to Dunkin’ Donuts. He opened his first outlet in 2008 and soon expanded with three additional stores.

He says he researched the franchise and learned the company “has superb support in place with architects, construction, operating systems as well as a fiercely loyal following of customers.”

Turner said his skills honed as a military commander leading and managing subordinates have been crucial to his success.

“Take great care of your people and they will go the extra mile for you. With staffing, four aces beats seven average cards,” he says. “Operations are operations. It doesn’t matter whether you’re running a squadron or a string of restaurants.”

But being a savvy businessman doesn’t hurt either. Choosing the right location -- Raleigh, N.C. – helped, because the city escaped the worst of the recession. When the economy was weak he lowered prices to beat out the competition and expanded while interest rates, construction costs and real estate were all less expensive.

Besides his wife, Turner also teamed with a financial partner on his first store.

Hill says all franchises should look toward two other key partners: attorneys and accountants. “While that step will incur expenses, it’s much better to have professionals, who know franchising, provide guidance,” he says.

For Turner, the sky is once again the limit. He hoped to open 35 stores amid expansion nationwide by Dunkin’ Donuts and, hopefully, to one day own a seaplane.

Tom Mitchell was the accidental franchisee. After 24 years in the Army in which he

learned Chinese and taught at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Mitchell landed a teaching job in suburban Washington, D.C., and thought he would be teaching until his next retirement.

But after the family moved to Washington state and he was unable to land a teaching gig, Mitchell considered a franchise. His research led him to open a UPS Store.

“They give you the SOP, just like they do in the military,” he says. “You just do what people have done before. You can modify as you see fit over time, but at least you’ve got the playbook.”

Nearly any military veteran can appreciate the complexity of logistics.

“We provide a reliable product and what many people believe is not a reasonable price, but after doing some analyzing about what it takes to get a package there by 10:30 the next day, we offer a very fair price,” he says.

The biggest challenge has been adjusting to the civilian workforce.

“After so many years in the Army, it’s really a shock to work with people who don’t carry their weight and to deal with difficult customers,” he says. “But you learn. You learn to cut things off before they become trouble.”

Most parent organizations require an eight- to 10-year contract, and even the most seemingly fool-proof business could crash and burn in a shaky economy.

“During boom times, anybody can open a franchise and do well, but in (recessionary) times … you really have to do all your homework and be prepared to work incredibly hard to make it happen,” Carey says. “But there is still tremendous opportunity for those willing to take the risk and invest themselves in growing a business.”

FRANCHISING RESOURCESInternational Franchise Association: www.franchise.org

Small Business Administration:www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/start/buyafranchise/index.html

Entrepreneur magazine:www.entrepreneur.com/franchiseopportunities/index.html

Franchise Update Network:www.franchise-update.com

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For details: 888.461.3555 cometcleaners.com/franchise

aThe dry cleaning industry is $9 billion in the US alonea50+ year brand historyaLow initial investmentaExperienced technicians in plant construction & equipment installation

aEase of operationaCorporate site location evaluation aLargest family owned dry cleaning chain in the USAaContinues to survive tough economic timesaNo late nights, no Sundays

aComprehensive training and support aProven advertising guidelines aNo shrink or inventory spoilageaSBA Approved FranchiseaMinimal labor (average 12 employees) …aLow employee to gross sales ratio

Over the last century, dry cleaning methods gradually evolved resulting in cleaner, well-preserved garments for its clients. Due largely to the pioneering efforts of Jack Godfrey & Sons Inc. since the 1920’s, Comet Cleaners’ equipment efficiency and reliability have improved.

In the 21st century, Comet Cleaners shall remain a worldwide leader in the dry cleaning business with its revolutionary concepts of providing price, quality and convenience to its clients.

We invite you to consider the Comet Cleaners opportunity today!

COMET CLEANERS IS EXPANDINGBECOME A PART OF HISTORY!

“Comet Cleaners Franchise showed me how to take the discipline, leadership

training, and organizational skills that I learned in the Army and turn it into a successful business in the private sector.”

– Dan Schneider, Former U.S. Army AH-1 Cobra Pilot and Gulf War Veteran Comet Cleaners franchisee since 1994, Las Cruces, NM – 3 stores

“Skills I learned as a Marine help me as an entrepreneur. Listening to the leadership and advise of the Comet Cleaners franchise office has enabled me to grow and expand

into a multi-million dollar business.”

– Sgt Burt Fisher, USMC. Desert Storm Veteran. Comet franchisee since 1997, Midland, TX –4 stores


THE BASICS OF FRANCHISE BUSINESSES

Want to be your own boss, but not willing to take on the risk of starting your own business from scratch? Franchising can be a great alternative if you want to have some guidance in the start-up phase of the business.

What is Franchising?A franchise is a business model that involves one business owner licensing trademarks and methods to an independent entrepreneur. Sometimes, franchises are referred to as chains.

There are two primary forms of franchising:• Product/trade name franchising, in which the

franchisor owns the right to the name or trademark and sells that right to a franchisee.

• Business format franchising. The franchisor and franchisee have an ongoing relationship, and the franchisor often provides a full range of services, including site selection, training, product supply, marketing plans and even assistance in obtaining financing

Before Investing in a FranchiseBefore you decide to franchise, you need to do your research. You could lose a significant amount of money if you do not investigate a business carefully before you buy. By law, franchise sellers must disclose certain information about their business to potential buyers. Make sure you get all the information you need first before entering into this form of business.

To learn more about franchising opportunities, visit the Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Consumer Protection.

The decision to purchase a franchise involves many factors. To help you explore if franchising is right for you, consider the following questions:

• Do you know how much you can invest? • What are your abilities? • What are your goals?

Franchising StrategyYou need a strategy before investing in a franchise. Doing your homework about the franchise first will help you gain a solid understanding of what to expect as well as the risks that could be involved.

• Be a Detective

In addition to the routine investigation that should be conducted prior to any business purchase, you should be able to contact other franchisees before deciding to invest. You can obtain a Uniform Franchise Offering Circular (UFOC), which contains vital details about the franchise’s legal, financial, and personnel history, before you sign a contract.

• Know What You are Getting Into

Before entering into any contract as a franchisee, you should make sure that you would have the right to use the franchise name and trademark, receive training and management assistance from the franchisor, use the franchisor’s expertise in marketing, advertising, facility design, layouts, displays and fixtures and do business in an area protected from other competing franchisees.

• Watch Out for Possible Pitfalls

The contract between the two parties usually benefits the franchisor far more than the franchisee. The franchisee is generally subject to meeting sales quotas and is required to purchase equipment, supplies and inventory exclusively from the franchisor.

• Seek Professional Help The tax rules surrounding franchises are often complex, and an attorney, preferably a specialist in franchise law, should assist you to evaluate the franchise package and tax considerations. An accountant may be needed to determine the full costs of purchasing and operating the business as well as to assess the potential profit to the franchisee.

Get More InformationIf you are considering purchasing a franchise, FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection has a wide range of resources and guides to help you buy a franchise and avoid franchise taboos.

Content by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

57Spring 2015 MERG


OPENING A FRANCHISE:WHAT’S INVOLVED?

Some people who are interested in becoming owners of a franchise business enthusiastically bring up the fact that they’d like to open more than one franchise.

Let’s find out what’s involved.

Choosing and investigating a franchise First off, you have to choose, investigate and buy the right franchise. Once you do that, you can start thinking about opening your second one. So, let’s start at the beginning.

1. Do you thoroughly understand the franchise business model, including how and why it works so well?

2. Have you done a thorough self-evaluation to make sure that you’re suited for a franchise business?

3. Have you thoroughly investigated the franchise opportunities that you’ve chosen to look into?

4. Did you get proper legal advice before you signed your franchise agreement?

5. Did you obtain the right type of small business loan for your business?

Open for businessYou’ve had your grand opening. Local residents are starting to hear about your new business. More and more of them are checking your franchise out. Things are starting to feel good. Your cash register is ringing up sales. You want more of that.

After a few months of being in business – one that’s starting to look like a winner-- you may start visualizing what it would be like to have another franchise location up and running. But, what needs to happen to make it happen?

TimingHow will you know when it’s the right time? Ask these questions:

1. Is your current location making a profit?2. Can you use the state of your local commercial real

estate market to your advantage? Is it depressed? Are there good deals to be made with landlords who have empty space?

3. Do you have enough employees? Can one or two of them help you open another franchise location?

4. Will your local banker be on-board with you? Will you be able to secure another small business loan with favorable terms?

Where should you open it?If you’re going to open a second franchise location, it’s important to choose your physical location carefully.Not only will you have to make sure that the location you choose is a prime one, you’ll have to make sure that it’s in your territory. The franchise agreement you signed has very specific language with regards to territory. For example, you may have to stay within a certain ZIP code or maybe even a certain county. That’s why it’s important for you to go over your franchise agreement before you talk to a real estate broker or a landlord. That way you won’t be setting yourself up for disappointment if you find out about a hot potential location for your second franchise unit that turns out to be out of your territory. In other words, don’t put the cart before the horse.

Family supportIs your family going to be on board you on this? Will they be comfortable with the idea of taking on more risk?

Think about what went on with those close to you when you were choosing and investigating the franchise that you now own. Did you have to convince your family of your idea to become a franchise business owner? What about when the subject of money came up? How nervous were they?

It’s important for you to put yourself in their shoes. Just because you’re excited about the idea of getting another franchise unit open doesn’t mean that they are. Start discussing your ideas with them early on…not right before you’re applying for another business loan, or a week before you’re about to sign a 10-year lease on a new commercial space.

Having two successful franchise locations up and running can be great. They’ll enable you to get closer to your personal and professional goals. Just make sure that you have done the things necessary to set you up for success.

Reprinted from an SBA.gov Community Guest Blog post by Joel Libava

Scan for more information

The FactsCars and trucks are getting older and they need to be serviced. Shops need tools and equipment delivered to their door. Technicians don’t have the time to go tool shopping so make it your job to take the store to them! That is the mobile tool business.

Franchises are AvailableWe have franchise locations available almost everywhere in the United States. Your own personal ability and the time you put into the business will largely determine how well you do. Start a new career and be your own boss without the need to relocate.

DetailsFinancing is available, if you qualify, to put you into business. Own your own mobile tool business with a very competitive financial investment.

Tools & TechniquesWe offer a product line of more than 10,000 items targeted at the professional repair technician. We offer catalogs, online resources, and computerized business systems to help you manage your business. We also have our own in house end user financing program to help you sell high end tools, tool storage and shop equipment to qualified customers.

RequirementsWe are looking for independent sales people interested in controlling all aspects of their own business. This is a business opportunity that will require a substantial commitment of time and money to get started.

ExperienceAn automotive or mechanical background is not needed. Many of our dealers entered into business without specific knowledge of the industry. If you have the drive to be successful, want to own your own business and thrive on meeting your customers expectations, you have the basic building blocks to become a successful authorized Cornwell Tool Dealer.

Who is the Cornwell Quality Tool Company®?We are a stable, family and employee-owned business established in 1919.

Be Your Own Boss!Territories Available!

Rick BrownManassas, Virginia

Dan & Jessica ColumbusNashua, New Hampshire

Henry DeSalvoCypress, Texas

Mario & Gabriela MendezFontana, California

Terry KleinFayetteville, North Carolina

59Spring 2015 MERG

Scan for more information

The FactsCars and trucks are getting older and they need to be serviced. Shops need tools and equipment delivered to their door. Technicians don’t have the time to go tool shopping so make it your job to take the store to them! That is the mobile tool business.

Franchises are AvailableWe have franchise locations available almost everywhere in the United States. Your own personal ability and the time you put into the business will largely determine how well you do. Start a new career and be your own boss without the need to relocate.

DetailsFinancing is available, if you qualify, to put you into business. Own your own mobile tool business with a very competitive financial investment.

Tools & TechniquesWe offer a product line of more than 10,000 items targeted at the professional repair technician. We offer catalogs, online resources, and computerized business systems to help you manage your business. We also have our own in house end user financing program to help you sell high end tools, tool storage and shop equipment to qualified customers.

RequirementsWe are looking for independent sales people interested in controlling all aspects of their own business. This is a business opportunity that will require a substantial commitment of time and money to get started.

ExperienceAn automotive or mechanical background is not needed. Many of our dealers entered into business without specific knowledge of the industry. If you have the drive to be successful, want to own your own business and thrive on meeting your customers expectations, you have the basic building blocks to become a successful authorized Cornwell Tool Dealer.

Who is the Cornwell Quality Tool Company®?We are a stable, family and employee-owned business established in 1919.

Be Your Own Boss!Territories Available!

Rick BrownManassas, Virginia

Dan & Jessica ColumbusNashua, New Hampshire

Henry DeSalvoCypress, Texas

Mario & Gabriela MendezFontana, California

Terry KleinFayetteville, North Carolina


The Franchise Business Index (FBI), an index of the economic health of the franchising industry, rose 0.2 percent in September to 110.7, the International Franchise Association announced on Oct. 30.

Growth of the index slowed as the component measuring employment in franchise-intensive industries showed no monthly gain for the first time in over three years and the small business optimism index declined.

“Franchise businesses continue to create jobs and demonstrate that the franchise business model remains the best and most proven vehicle to quickly grow and scale a small business,” said IFA President & CEO Steve Caldeira.

“While we are pleased the index grew for the fifth consecutive month, we remain concerned about the overall rate of growth in both new business formation and job creation. We believe comprehensive tax reform that eases the burden on small business owners by lowering the effective tax rate is essential to strong job and wage growth for all Americans.”

The other four components of the FBI all made small positive contributions to the index. The unemployment rate declined slightly and the incidence of self-employment rose.

Retail sales in franchise-intensive sectors increased by 0.3 percent and the index of credit conditions ticked up. After incorporating revisions to last month’s data for individual components of the index, the August value of the FBI also showed slower growth – up 0.2 percent over the July value.

Designed to provide timelier tracking of the growing role of franchise businesses in the U.S. economy, the Franchise Business Index was developed by IHS Global Insight on behalf of the IFA Educational Foundation. The FBI combines indicators of growth in the industries where franchising is most prevalent and measures of the general economic environment for franchising.

“The franchise sector continues to exceed the modest pace of overall economic growth, as improvements in the housing market have had a positive impact on consumer spending,” said IHS Global Insight Senior Economist James Gillula, “and we do not expect higher mortgage rates to choke off the recovery.”

Courtesy of the International Franchising Association.

FRANCHISE ECONOMIC OUTLOOK:

Growth slows after three years of steady gains, but franchises continue adding jobs

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Hezekiah Morgan measures the distance for a flood light.

PHO

TO: Petty O

fficer 1st C

lass Chris Fahey

61Spring 2015 MERG


FINANCING YOUR FRANCHISE: An SBA Guide

Are you looking to buy a franchise, or do you currently own one? If so, you’re part of a growing population. The popularity of franchises over the last several decades has contributed to the massive growth of related jobs and new businesses. To help facilitate their development, the Small Business

Administration has created a franchise program to simplify their financing process.

What does it mean to be an SBA-approved franchise?

SBA-approved franchises are select business opportunities whose agreements have been accepted by the SBA. When it comes to securing an SBA-backed loan, those applying for an approved-franchise have it easier and quicker. Applicants for SBA-approved franchises benefit from a streamlined review process that expedites their loan application. Because the particular franchise is pre-approved, the loan review is less complex and focuses on specific aspects of that brand’s business plan.

Where can I find a list of SBA-approved franchises?

Through a partnership with SBA, the Franchise Registry provides a list of approved franchises*. This list allows you to search by name if you have a specific franchise in mind or by program/industry if you doing research in related franchise opportunities.

Should I be worried if my franchise is not on the SBA-approved list?

Franchises do not appear on the list for a variety of reasons. In some instances, the franchisor may decide not to have it listed. If this is the case, SBA and your commercial lender may need to review and evaluate more financial information when you seek SBA financial assistance, which may add more time to process the request. Being on or off the list is not an endorsement or indication of quality and profitability, so you should still thoroughly research for your potential franchise opportunity.

What else is needed by SBA and my bank if my franchise is on the SBA-approved franchise list?

Additional eligibility qualifications are required for applicants of financing for an SBA-approved franchise. These qualifications include items such as general eligibility, conflicts of interest, business plans, and use of proceeds. When you apply for an SBA-backed loan, you will still need to submit paperwork according to their application process. An SBA Loan Application Checklist can help you prepare all the necessary documentation. Common

documentation includes:

• Purpose of the loan• History of the business• Financial statements for three years (existing businesses)• Schedule of term debts (existing businesses)• Aging of accounts receivable and payable (existing businesses)• Projected opening-day balance sheet (new businesses)• Lease details• Amount of investment in the business by the owner(s)• Projections of income, expenses and cash flow• Signed personal financial statements• Personal résumé(s)

How do I proceed?

Whether or not your franchise is on the SBA-approved list, there are still steps should take to move your loan application process forward:

• Review process for SBA loans -Understanding the SBA process will help minimize the about of time the process will take. Being on top of what you need to submit and when can expedite everything.

• Pull together all necessary information and documents - More information will be needed to process the request. SBA will require less financial information if the franchise is on the SBA-approved list. There is common information and documentation that you will need to provide to SBA and your potential lender whether or not your franchise is on the SBA-approved list. Being on the SBA-approved franchises list will make the SBA approval portion move faster, but SBA has no control over the actual lenders.

• Find a lender- SBA provides a list of Preferred Lenders that are familiar with the SBA process. You are not required to use a preferred lender, but if you have the option it could be beneficial.

Throughout the process make sure that you are in contact with your franchisor and keep him or her updated.

Whether or not your franchise is on the SBA-approved list, it is important to research your financing options. An expedited process is available for those on the list, but this does not guarantee approval. Remember, items such as general eligibility, conflicts of interest, business plans, and use of proceeds affect your odds, regardless of whether your franchise is pre-approved.

Reprinted from SBA.gov

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Members of the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University salute Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, upon his arrival in College Station, Texas.

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PHO

TO: D

. Myles C

ullen

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An MH-53 Sea Stallion takes off from the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6).

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PHO

TO: Aviation Boatsw

ain’s Mate A

irman John K

elvin Chavez

68 MERG Spring 2015

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Zachery Johnson prepares to engage targets from a UH-1Y Venom helicopter during training over San Clemente Island, Calif.

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PHO

TO: Sgt. Jam

ean Berry

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Cadet 1st Class Josh Burres, 98th Flying Training Squadron Wings of Blue parachutist, flies the U.S. flag during an aerial demonstration for the opening ceremonies of the Air Force Wounded Warrior 2015 Trials on Nellis Air Force Base.

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PHO

TO: Senior A

irman Jordan C

astelan

72 MERG Spring 2015

Paratroopers move an artillery piece into firing position as paratroopers conduct a parachute assault on Malemute drop zone at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.

73Spring 2015 MERG

PHO

TO: Justin C

onnaher

74 MERG Spring 2015

Over 130 Marines from 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion and nine Marines from Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 met with family, friends and coworkers upon their return to Camp Pendleton, Calif.

75Spring 2015 MERG

PHO

TO: Sgt. Valerie Eppler

76 MERG Spring 2015

Spc. Dominic Suriano, left, and Army Pfc. Larry Spaulding, clean a 81 mm mortar tube after firing it on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska

77Spring 2015 MERG

PHO

TO: Justin C

onnaher

78 MERG Spring 2015

Sgt. 1st Class Michael Deblock with the Vermont Army National Guard Computer Network Defense Team discusses new ways to make the exercise more challenging for cyber defenders with a fellow Red Cell team member.

79Spring 2015 MERG

PHO

TO: Staff Sgt. K

elvin Green

80 MERG Spring 2015

Staff Sergeant Bryan Dalere, a pararescue jumper with the 103rd Rescue Squadron, 106th Rescue Wing exit a US Coast Guard HC-144 Ocean Sentry.

81Spring 2015 MERG

PHO

TO: Staff Sergeant C

hristopher S Muncy

82 MERG Spring 2015

Army Sgt. Stefan Leroy runs a 1,500 meter event during Army Trials at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas.

PHOTO: EJ Hersom

83Spring 2015 MERG

84 MERG Spring 2015

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Documents

Military Education and Resource Guide 2015 Spring Edition