Deckplate Discussions

In this episode we dive into an article reporting that thousands of sailors who did not meet Navy body composition standards will have free access to the popular weight-loss app Noom for a year as part of a pilot Fitness Enhancement Program. The Navy is funding this $466,560 initiative with excess congressional funds to explore resources that support sailor readiness. This pilot program will offer personalized diet plans, virtual c...

In this episode we dive into the reports of The Department of Defense allocating nearly $10 million to fund two studies investigating the therapeutic potential of MDMA for active-duty military personnel suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. One study, conducted at Walter Reed, will specifically examine MDMA's effect on psychological flexibility in soldiers with mild to moderate PTSD. This initiative marks the first time ac...

In this episode we dive into the Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's mandate for a review of military grooming and fitness standards, particularly changes since 2015. The focus includes reevaluating beard regulations, considering medical and other exemptions, amid discussions of potentially loosening restrictions. This directive also encompasses scrutinizing physical fitness and body composition standards, prompted partly by concerns ...

In this episode we dive into an article from Your Navy discusses the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for military members in 2025, highlighting a 5.4% average increase. BAH is a tax-free stipend based on location, rank, and dependents, intended to cover most housing costs. The piece explains how BAH rates are calculated annually, noting temporary increases in recent years and ongoing studies of the system. It also touches on the ...

in this episode we take a deep dive into the Military Times report stating that while all service members received a 4.5% pay raise in January 2025, junior enlisted personnel (E-4 and below) will see an additional 10% increase in their basic pay this spring due to recent congressional approval. This targeted raise aims to bring nearly all troops' annual pay above $30,000 and addresses the basic pay structure determined by rank and ...

In this episode we dive into an article "Kickstart Your Fitness Journey Today" which offers guidance to veterans beginning or improving their fitness. It stresses the importance of setting realistic, achievable goals using the SMART criteria, and finding enjoyable physical activities, possibly involving family. The article highlights leveraging community resources, such as VA programs and veteran organizations, to make fitness a so...

IN this discussion we dive into a bipartisan bill, the Precision Brain Health Research Act, has been reintroduced by Senators Moran and King. This legislation aims to study the long-term effects of low-level blast injuries on veterans' cognitive and emotional well-being. The proposed ten-year study, conducted by the VA in collaboration with the National Academies of Sciences, seeks to understand the link between these injuries and ...

In this episode we dive into the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) report on processing over one million disability claims faster than ever before in Fiscal Year 2025. Despite a 15.6% increase in claims compared to last year, this milestone was reached nearly two weeks sooner than in FY24. Over 60% of the processed claims were granted, resulting in $62 billion in compensation and pension benefit payments to Veterans and survivors...

In this episode we dive into a recent study by the Wounded Warrior Project that reveals a significant percentage of disabled veterans still face challenges securing full-time employment. The report, which surveyed nearly 19,000 veterans, indicates that about 40% are unemployed despite various initiatives aimed at improving their transition to civilian jobs. Mental health issues and the difficulty in translating military skills are ...

In this episode we dive into the news article reports on upcoming reductions in life insurance premiums for service members, veterans, and their families. The decreases, effective July 1, are attributed to the "sound financial standing" of the insurance programs. For active-duty military, Service Members' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) premiums will decrease, while Family SGLI premiums will drop by an average of 13%. Veterans Group Li...

These sources consist of comments posted on the VA News website in response to articles featuring VA Secretary Doug Collins addressing Veterans' benefits. Many commenters express distrust and skepticism towards Collins and the new administration, particularly regarding potential cuts to benefits and the involvement of Elon Musk's DOGE project. Veterans voice concerns about staffing shortages, delays in claims processing, and the...

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is investing millions in adaptive sports programs for veterans with disabilities. Ninety-one programs across the country will receive funding to support activities like adaptive sports, recreation, and equine therapy. These grants aim to improve veterans' physical and mental health, providing community and camaraderie. The organization, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), partners with the VA o...

The source presents a series of comments in response to a video address by VA Secretary Doug Collins regarding veterans' benefits. Many veterans express distrust and concern over potential benefit cuts and staff reductions, especially with the involvement of DOGE and President Trump's administration. Some commenters reference "Project 2025" and allege a plan to dismantle the VA and reduce benefits, while others defend the administr...

This government webpage offers resources for veterans seeking to use their GI Bill benefits for education and training. It highlights tools for finding approved schools, comparing benefits across institutions, and understanding programs like the Yellow Ribbon Program. The site provides access to resources, such as the GI Bill Comparison Tool and the WEAMS Institution Search tool, to aid veterans in making informed decisions. Guidan...

In this discussion we dive into the U.S. Veterans Magazine December 2024 article which provides an ultimate guide for disabled veterans, highlighting the best states to live in based on available benefits. It details specific advantages like property tax exemptions, free licenses, and housing grants offered by states such as Alaska, Florida, and Texas. The guide also lists popular veteran benefits available in different states and ...

In this discussion we dive into U.S. Veterans Magazine article on the funding opportunities for veteran-owned businesses. The article presents avenues such as the Second Service Foundation's Military Entrepreneur Challenge and the SBA's SDVOSB program. It also lists corporate and organizational grants, including the FedEx Entrepreneur Fund and the Stephen L. Tadlock Veteran Grant. A Texas-specific grant for women veterans and the F...

In this discussion we dive into the article from U.S. Veterans Magazine outlines key financial considerations for military personnel transitioning to civilian life. It emphasizes the importance of budgeting, saving, and understanding civilian compensation packages. The piece advises veterans to create spending plans, build savings through consistent habits, and maximize employer retirement plan matches. Debt management strategies, ...

Doug Collins, a post-9/11 veteran, has been confirmed as the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The Senate approved Collins in a bipartisan vote, recognizing his military service and experience counseling veterans. Collins, who previously served as a Republican congressman, has close ties to President Trump. His confirmation faced some opposition due to his views on abortion access. Senator Blumenthal urged Collins to protect veter...