LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. — Federal civilian employees and members of the uniform services now have the option of being taxed up front rather than during their retirement years-at a possible higher rate, with a Roth Thrift Savings Plan program, starting Oct. 1, 2012. TSP is a retirement savings plan, based on member contribution-meaning…

WASHINGTON — The Defense Department has revised from 22 to 14 the number of days hundreds of thousands of civilian employees could be furloughed this year because of the budget sequester, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced today. In addition, a senior Defense Department official speaking on background told reporters the start of the furloughs will…

WASHINGTON (AFNS)  — As tax season nears, Military OneSource and H&R Block have joined forces again to provide a free online tax preparation service for service members. During an interview with American Forces Press Service and the Pentagon Channel, Tony Jackson, a program analyst for the Military OneSource program office, detailed the services available for…

WASHINGTON – The Defense Manpower Data Center is making it easier for service members and their families to get and maintain identification cards. The center has launched its RAPIDS — Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System — self-service portal to allow service members and reservists with the Defense Department’s common access card, or CAC, to apply…

British Fusilier Derek Kinne recounts his time as a prisoner of war during the Korean War to Angel Thunder 13 participants at the Angel Thunder opening ceremony. During his two-and-a-half-year capture by the Chinese, Kinne made two unsuccessful attempts to escape from the prison camp, assaulted a Chinese guard and suffered from several severe injuries….

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) — The Air Force is seeking nominations for the 2013 National Public Service Award, Air Force Personnel Center officials announced today. The National Public Service Award recognizes individuals at all levels of public service who have agency-wide responsibility; exhibit the highest standards of excellence, dedication and accomplishment over a…

FORT MEADE, Md. (AFNS) — With the current military retirement system, Airmen must serve in the military for 20 years before reaping retirement benefits, unless they are medically retired before hitting that mark But what about Airmen who serve fewer than 20 years? What can they take away from their Air Force service beyond a…

LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. — Having good credit can be beneficial in many ways, and when used correctly it can be an important tool to help pay for college, a new vehicle, furniture or a home. According to Cory Carmichael, 56th Force Support Squadron Airman and Family Readiness Center community readiness specialist, credit is…