A Resource for the Soldiers and Families of the Army National Guard CITIZEN-SOLDIER ISSUE 2 // VOL 1 FIGHTING FIRE California National Guard Ignites Hope Amidst Historic Wildfires | Page 11 Army Total Force in Action National Guard and Active Duty Soldiers Fully Embrace the Total Force Policy in New Multicomponent Units | Page 29 Forever GI Bill New Expansions Mean More Benefits and Larger Payouts for Army National Guard Soldiers | Page 51 Save Time and Money While Earning Your Degree Soldiers in the Army National Guard can test to receive college credits for undergraduate and technical subjects through the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES). Credit-by-Exams, such as the College-Level College credit examinations are widely accepted by colleges and Examination Program (CLEP) and universities. By passing these examinations, Soldiers may earn DANTES Subject Standardized one-third or more of the credits required for a college degree. Tests (DSSTs), allow students to earn credits by testing knowledge gained through military classes, technical assignments or personal study, without attending class. These tests can help Soldiers to save money and earn degrees faster through bypassing months of classroom time. For more information, visit www.dantes.doded.mil, email the National Guard Support Center at
[email protected] or call 866-628-5999. AFTER THE STORM 5 A look back at the valiant efforts put forth by tens of thousands of National Guard members when the United States was rocked by some of the worst hurricanes ever faced by the Nation. CALIFORNIA’S DEADLY FIRESTORM 11 California National Guard stands strong when the most devastating wildfires on record scorch the State.