Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) in the U.S. Army

Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) in the U.S. Army

The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a vital component of the military compensation package provided to service members in the U.S. Army. Designed to offset the cost of housing for those who do not live in government-provided housing, BAH plays a crucial role in ensuring that soldiers and their families have access to suitable … Read more

Military Healthcare Administration

Military Healthcare Administration

Military Healthcare Administration involves managing military hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. It can be a career field for both officers and enlisted personnel, though the military offers different positions in this area depending on the branch. If you are interested in becoming a healthcare administrator, check out your service branch’s internal job postings for … Read more

Army SSD1 – A Prerequisite For Warrier Leader Course

Army SSD1 - A Prerequisite For Warrier Leader Course

As the world moves away from paper forms, more and more military paperwork is completed online. This includes the Structured Self Development Level 1, or SSD1, requirement for soldiers to attend Warrier Leader Course. SSD is a web-based military learning system that is an important part of the Noncommissioned Officer Education System. Its purpose is … Read more

Survivor Benefit Plans in the Army

Survivor Benefit Plans in the Army

As a military retiree, you have the option to continue coverage under the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). This program pays an annuity that is a percentage of your base pay after your death. The cost is deducted from your monthly retirement check by DFAS. It is important to keep your SBP election current. Ignoring it … Read more

Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) Score Chart

Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) Score Chart

The Army Combat Fitness Test is a six-event acrobatic test that evaluates a soldier’s strength, endurance, and agility. The test is now gender and age-neutral, and it is also more realistic, with events such as the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, and leg tuck. To pass the ACFT, you must meet specific requirements … Read more

Army Civil Affairs

Army Civil Affairs

Army civil affairs is a vital branch that addresses critical strategic and operational needs. However, the branch struggles to demonstrate its value and thereby gain priority from higher echelons for training and resources. The reason is that its output is difficult to measure. This may contribute to the relegation of the regiment to supporting roles … Read more

What is M855a1 Round?

What is M855a1 Round

The M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round is a non-lead ammunition cartridge designed to replace the outdated M855. The round uses a steel penetrator instead of a lead core and is encased in a copper jacket. The projectile is reportedly made using a reverse-drawn design that allows for more consistent accuracy. It also features a cannelure at … Read more

Army IgnitED – A Portal For Tuition Assistance

Army IgnitED - A Portal For Tuition Assistance

Army IgnitED is a portal for military-connected students and postsecondary institutions to use to manage tuition assistance (TA) funds. It replaced GoArmyEd and allows Soldiers to set up educational pathways for themselves and receive guidance on utilizing TA funding. These pathways can range from earning a college degree to credentialing opportunities. Army IgnitED also includes … Read more

The Army’s New AIM 2.0 Portal

The Army's New AIM 2.0 Portal

The Army is trying to improve its talent management process by introducing a new online assignment marketplace. Similar to the dating app Tinder, it matches officers with their desired assignments based on units’ needs. Using AIM 2.0 Portal effectively requires officers to market themselves properly. For example, they should tailor their AIM 2.0 resume to … Read more

How to Become an Air Force Pilot?

How to Become an Air Force Pilot

Air Force pilots are trained to fly military aircraft and handle complex military weapon systems. They are also trained in military strategies and go through mission planning sessions with teammates. The AF pays special attention to vision, requiring normal color vision and meeting refraction and astigmatism requirements. Those with allergies or asthma may not be … Read more

Military Email Access Policy Requirements

Military Email Access Policy Requirements

Email is a critical component of military operations. However, it can also be vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. As such, the DoD has developed rigorous email access policies to ensure that sensitive information is protected. Defense contractors must demonstrate compliance with these policies to work with the DoD. This includes completing cybersecurity awareness training, protecting federal … Read more

Air National Guard

Air National Guard

Joining the Air National Guard is a great way to serve your country and get benefits such as healthcare, tuition assistance, and more. To learn more about specific careers in the ANG, contact your local recruiter. ANG wings were gradually shifting their missions from large aircraft (airlift, tankers, and bombers) to fighters. They also grew … Read more

Who Are Green Berets?

Who Are Green Berets

The Green Berets are the Army’s elite counter-terrorists, foreign internal defense specialists, and reconnaissance troops. They serve around the world to secure America’s strategic interests. Though their missions are sometimes confused with Navy SEALS’ and Army Rangers’, Special Forces operate in a league of their own. They are “jacks-of-all-trades,” Anne Jacobsen writes in her book, … Read more

Army RPAC Locations

Army RPAC Locations

The Army Reserve began using RPACs in 2011 to centralize personnel services. These services include pay, promotions, transfers, and records updates. Previously, these tasks were handled by individual unit administrators. Despite some initial concerns, the new system seems to be working well. It allows the military technicians to be more available to the units they … Read more

What is the OCIE Army Record?

What is the OCIE Army Record

OCIE is the Army system used to keep track of individual gear issued by your central issuing facility (cif). The OACI record includes clothing, field equipment, and other supplies. It also contains information about each item, including its nomenclature and stock numbers. CRA teams are working to ensure that Airmen receive the OCIE they need … Read more

US Army Ranks

US Army Ranks

The United States Army has a strict hierarchy of ranks defining a soldier’s position and responsibilities. It consists of enlisted, warrant, and commissioned officer ranks. The rank structure ensures that soldiers know their responsibilities and have clear lines of authority when carrying out military missions. The ranks begin with the junior enlisted ranks, which are … Read more

Financial Disclosure Management

Financial Disclosure Management

What is Financial Disclosure Management? This article will discuss what this reporting requirement entails, who fills it out, and what it requires of companies. It will also explain what a company should do when the time comes to file its OGE 450. Regardless of your company’s size, you should understand the importance of Financial Disclosure … Read more

Volunteer Management Information System ( VMIS )

volunteer management information system vmis

The Volunteer Management Information System (VMIS) is a system that is used to track volunteer hours. The system was once included in AKO Online and is a vital tool for recording the hours you volunteer for an organization. Many nonprofits use it to track hours and promote volunteers. The VMIS is free and easy to … Read more

ATRRS Course Catalog

ATRRS Course Catalog

ATRRS course catalog is a system that helps soldiers find training classes and enroll in them. It also tracks course completion records. Its use is mandatory for Army personnel. To access ATRRS, users must log in using their Logon ID, Password, and Access Code. Then, they must select the Fiscal Year and School Code to … Read more

Veterans Organizations

Veterans Organizations

There are thousands of veterans organizations, associations, and nonprofit groups from which to choose. But which ones are right for you? In short, veterans organizations provide a variety of services to help vets. They offer support to members and their families and can serve as advocates with the Department of Veterans Affairs, helping with things … Read more

MyCAA

MyCAA

MyCAA is a great way to pay for professional courses that will help your career. Eligible military spouses can apply online through the Military One Source website using their Department of Defense Self-Service LogonDS Logon Registration information. The program allows spouses to pursue licenses, certificates, and associate degrees in portable careers. However, it does not … Read more

Military Appreciation Month

Military Appreciation Month

Military families are an important part of our nation, and military spouses’ hard work often goes unnoticed. With Military Spouse Appreciation Day on May 8, VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) on May 8 and Mother’s Day on May 10, there is no shortage of opportunities to uplift and honor military families this month. Each … Read more

How to Find Out How Someone Was Discharged From the Military?

How to Find Out How Someone Was Discharged From the Military

If you’re looking to find out how someone was discharged from the military, there are several ways to do it. One way is to request their DD 214 separation documents from the National Personnel Records Center. However, you will need certain information to get these records. This includes the veteran’s full name, service number; and … Read more

Verizon Military Discount

Verizon Military Discount

While many companies provide military discounts on products or services around Veterans Day, Verizon offers military-specific discounts year-round. The amount you save will depend on the plan you select and how many lines are included. Verizon also offers discounts on certain accessories. To be eligible for the discount, you must register online at Veterans Advantage … Read more

Military Retirement Calculator

Military Retirement Calculator

Military retirement is a significant milestone for individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving their country in the armed forces. As service members approach the end of their careers, one of the essential considerations is planning for retirement and ensuring financial stability after leaving active duty. A military retirement calculator is a valuable tool that helps … Read more

Department of Defense Information Network (DODIN)

Department of Defense Information Network

The DODIN connects military missions, operations, and weapons systems. It also attracts determined adversaries who aim to compromise its cyber terrain and steal data, degrade, discredit, or destroy information. The DODIN is a complex enterprise with 44 DOD component-constructed networks (DAOs). Each DAO requires unique skills to manage. The Department of Defense has a global … Read more

Army Family Programs

Army Family Programs

The military lifestyle can be demanding, not only for service members but also for their families. The Army, National Guard, and Army Reserve each have their own Family Program to support military families. These programs aim to provide resources, support, and assistance to family members of service members. This article will take a closer look … Read more

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA)

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is a combat support agency of the Department of Defense (DoD). It is responsible for providing information technology and communications support to the President, Vice President, Secretary of Defense, the military services, and other government agencies. DISA provides a range of services including network management, command and control, information … Read more

Army Casualty Assistance

Army Casualty Assistance

The loss of a loved one who was serving in the military can be a challenging and emotional experience. In such difficult times, the Army Casualty Assistance Program is there to provide assistance and support to the families of fallen soldiers. This guide will explain what the program is, how it works, and what services … Read more

Army JAG Corps

Army JAG Corps

The Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, also known as the Army JAG Corps, is a branch of the United States Army responsible for providing legal services to the Army and its soldiers. The JAG Corps consists of commissioned officers who are lawyers and are trained to provide legal advice and support to military commanders, soldiers, … Read more

Soldiers’ Deployment

Soldiers' Deployment

Deployment is a critical aspect of military service, and it can be a challenging experience for soldiers and their families. Whether you are a new member of the Army, advancing in the military, dealing with logistics, or facing health issues, there are many resources available to help you navigate the deployment process. In this guide, … Read more

Civilian Personnel Online (CPOL)

Civilian Personnel Online (CPOL)

Civilian Personnel Online (CPOL) is a comprehensive web-based system that serves as the primary source of information and services for Department of Army civilian employees. CPOL provides a wide range of HR-related services, including job postings, training and career development resources, and personnel information management. The system is designed to support civilian employees’ career development … Read more

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation (MWR) Program

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation (MWR) Program

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation (MWR) Program is a comprehensive program designed to enhance the quality of life for Coast Guard personnel and their families. The MWR Program provides various services and activities, including fitness centers, sports programs, libraries, movie theaters, outdoor recreation, arts and crafts, and special events. The … Read more

DOD MWR Libraries

DOD MWR Libraries

DOD MWR Libraries, also known as Department of Defense (DOD) Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Libraries, is a library network that provides educational, recreational, and informational resources to military personnel and their families. These libraries are operated by the DOD and are located on military installations worldwide, including Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps bases. … Read more

The Office of the Administrative Assistant (OAA)

The Office of the Administrative Assistant (OAA)

The Office of the Administrative Assistant (OAA) provides administrative support services to the Secretary of the Army, the Chief of Staff of the Army, and other senior Army leaders. The OAA is responsible for managing a broad range of functions, including financial management, human resources, facilities management, security and emergency management, information technology, protocol support, … Read more

Final Pay Calculator

Final Pay Calculator

The Final Pay Calculator is a tool used by military members to estimate their final pay when they separate or retire from the military. Final pay is the pay that a military member receives for their final month of service based on their rank and years of service. To use the Final Pay Calculator, follow … Read more

Milsuite 

Milsuite

Milsuite is a suite of online collaboration tools available to U.S. military members and other government agencies. It is designed to facilitate communication and collaboration among military professionals and to promote knowledge sharing and information exchange. Milsuite includes several different tools, including MilBook, MilWiki, and MilTube. To use Milsuite, you must have a valid military … Read more

U.S. Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFL)

U.S. Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFL)

The U.S. Armed Forces Legal Assistance (AFL) program provides free legal assistance to members of the U.S. military and their families. The program is designed to help military personnel and their families resolve legal issues resulting from their military service. The AFL program is administered by the Department of Defense, and it is staffed by … Read more

Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA)

Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA)

The Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA) is a specialized agency of the United States Air Force responsible for providing comprehensive weather information to support the Air Force, Army, and other Department of Defense (DoD) operations worldwide. The AFWA’s mission is to provide timely, accurate, and relevant weather information to support military operations, planning, and decision-making. … Read more

FMSWeb

FMSWeb Army is a web-based system that is used by the United States Army to manage and track its resources, personnel, and equipment. It is a component of the Army Force Management Support System (AFMSS) and is used by Army personnel worldwide. FMS Web Army is a centralized platform that provides a variety of capabilities … Read more

Army Readiness Assessment Program (ARAP)

Army Readiness Assessment Program (ARAP)

The Army Readiness Assessment Program (ARAP) is a tool designed to assess the overall Readiness of Army units. The program provides commanders with data and insights into the unit’s readiness status and identifies potential areas for improvement. ARAP is a web-based tool that allows commanders to track and monitor the Readiness of their units in … Read more

Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS)

Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS)

The Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) is a federal agency of the United States Department of Defense (DoD) that provides financial and accounting services for the military and civilian employees of the DoD. DFAS is responsible for managing the financial transactions and accounting records for the entire Department of Defense, including payroll processing, travel … Read more

My Military Health Records

My Military Health Records

My Military Health Records is an online portal that provides military personnel, veterans, and their families easy access to their medical records and other health information. The portal is part of the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Military Health System. It is designed to help users manage their healthcare more effectively. Through My Military Health Records, … Read more

Sustainable Range Program (SRP)

Sustainable Range Program (SRP)

The Sustainable Range Program (SRP) is a program developed by the U.S. Army to ensure that military training and testing activities are conducted in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. The program is designed to balance the need for military readiness with the need to protect the environment and natural resources. The SRP is focused … Read more

The Defense Travel System (DTS)

The Defense Travel System (DTS)

The Defense Travel System (DTS) is an online, automated system used by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to help military personnel and their families book and manage official travel. The system is designed to simplify the travel process and reduce paperwork, making it easier for travelers to book and manage their travel arrangements. With … Read more

Department of the Army

Department of the Army

The Department of the Army is one of the three military departments of the United States Department of Defense (DoD) and is responsible for the operations of the United States Army. It is headquartered at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and is led by the Secretary of the Army and the Chief of Staff of … Read more

Army Correspondence Course Program ACCP

Army Correspondence Course Program ACCP

The Army Correspondence Course Program (ACCP) is a self-paced, distance learning program designed to provide military personnel with job-related training and education. The program is managed by the Army Continuing Education System (ACES) and is available to all active-duty, reserve, and National Guard soldiers, as well as Department of Army civilian employees. The ACCP covers … Read more

The Most Used Military Forms & Documents

The Most Used Military Forms Documents

Army forms are official documents the United States Army uses to record and report information related to personnel, equipment, supplies, training, and other aspects of military operations. These forms are used to capture and document information that is critical for maintaining the readiness and effectiveness of the Army. Army forms are used to initiate and … Read more

Army Medical Department (AMEDD)

Army Medical Department (AMEDD)

The Army Medical Department (AMEDD) is the branch of the United States Army that provides medical services to soldiers and their families. AMEDD has been serving the Army since 1775 and is an integral part of the Army’s overall mission. AMEDD provides a wide range of medical services, including medical research, medical training, and medical … Read more

Army Publications

army publications

Are you wondering what Army Publications is all about? Read on. In this article, we’ll talk about the organization’s content and website. All other army-related content is included on our website: AKO Offline. Army Publications is a centrally managed organization for the Army’s publications and forms. It’s a great resource for anyone in the armed … Read more

Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP)

Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP)

The Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program is a comprehensive program designed to prevent and respond to incidents of sexual harassment and sexual assault in the military. It is implemented throughout the Department of Defense, including in the Army. The SHARP Program has a number of different components, including prevention, training, response, and reporting. … Read more

Army Training Network

Army Training Network

The Army Training Network’s (ATN) mission is to provide the Army’s trainers and educators with access to the latest training materials, resources, and best practices to help them deliver effective training programs that meet the needs of Army personnel across all career fields and specialties. The ATN aims to support the Army’s overall mission of … Read more

Army Training Courses

Army Training Courses

Army training courses are programs designed to teach soldiers specific skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties effectively. These courses cover a wide range of topics, from basic training for new recruits to advanced technical training for specialized jobs. The Army offers a variety of training courses, both in-person and online. In-person courses may … Read more

Army Learning Management System

army learning management system

Many army personnel look for flexibility when it comes to learning. They have thousands of tasks to complete in addition to training, and taking time to complete the learning material can be challenging. With an Army Learning Management System (ALMS), students can take lessons and lectures when they have the time. This flexibility also allows … Read more

DoD Automated Time Attendance and Production System

DoD Automated Time Attendance and Production System

The DoD Automated Time Attendance and Production System is an online system that allows DOD (Army, Air Force, USMC) civilian employees to input their time. It also helps them submit leave forms. ATAAPS is hosted by DISA as an Enterprise Service, and the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) serve as the software vendor. It … Read more

DOD Secure Access File Exchange (DOD SAFE)

DOD Secure Access File Exchange (DOD SAFE)

DoD Secure Access File Exchange, or DOD SAFE, is a web-based file transfer system that allows Department of Defense personnel to share large files. The service allowed Defense Department personnel and civilian employees to exchange information in a more secure environment than email. The original version of the service, called AMRDEC SAFE, was launched by … Read more

DoD Skillbridge

DoD Skillbridge

Skillbridge is a program that allows transitioning service members to train and learn with industry partners during their last 180 days of military service. This program enables service members to leverage their training, skills, and work ethic when seeking private-sector employment upon discharge from the military. It helps them gain a foothold in their new … Read more

USAREC – The United States Army Recruiting Command

USAREC The United States Army Recruiting Command scaled

USAREC stands for the United States Army Recruiting Command, which is responsible for recruiting soldiers for active and reserve duty in the United States. The Command is headquartered at Fort Knox, Ky., with eight directorates and 14 staff sections. Throughout the Command’s history, the mission of USAREC has been to recruit high-quality men and women … Read more

Army Distributed Learning Program

Army Distributed Learning Program

The Army Distributed Learning Program provides online capabilities in communities nationwide to support the training and readiness of Soldiers, leaders, and units. Dedicated to the Guard, the program delivers soldier and leader training content. You can check our other army-related essential topics on our website, AKO Offline. In FY 2007, the Army’s Training and Doctrine … Read more

Enterprise Military Housing

Enterprise Military Housing

Military branches have shifted upkeep and rent collection to private firms since the 1990s, allowing them to focus on training and combat. But a recent Reuters report found that the companies were ignoring dangerous mold and lead paint hazards in some of the houses they manage. And a government investigation is underway. The Department of … Read more