Gold Star survivors are part of Air Force family tree

By Tammy Cournoyer
AFPC Airman and Family Division

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas - The Air Force family tree has many branches and one branch, representing the services Gold Star families, has leaves that glow consistently with the rest.

Gold Star families are survivors of military service members who lost their lives during armed hostilities, including deployments in support of military operations against an enemy and/or during an international terrorist attack.

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Newborn Screenings: Protecting Children

By Yan Kennon, Public Affairs Senior Writer, Naval Hospital Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Newborn screenings identify conditions that can affect children's long-term health or survival. Each year, millions of babies in the U.S. are routinely screened for certain genetic, endocrine, and metabolic disorders, and are also tested for hearing loss and critical congenital heart defects, prior to discharge from a hospital or birthing center.

The screenings are a vital public health program that tests babies for congenital disorders that aren't outwardly visible.

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My Navy Portal (MNP) Now Includes a Low Bandwidth Version

From Sea Warrior Program (PEO EIS PMW 240)

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy announced today that this week's update to My Navy Portal (MNP) includes a low bandwidth version that can be accessed afloat, or ashore in areas with limited bandwidth. This latest updated version gives users the option to choose the low bandwidth upon login, or from any page within the portal. By removing all photos, graphics, and formatting found on the standard version, the low bandwidth option is designed to load faster, perform smoother, and enables users to quickly complete Navy career tasks within the portal.

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CNIC Encourages Sailors, Families to Prepare for Emergencies

From Navy Installations Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- September is National Emergency Preparedness Month. Commander, Navy Installations Command's (CNIC) Ready Navy Program educates Sailors and their families on how to be prepared when an emergency occurs. This year's overall theme is "Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can."

Each week in September will have a focused theme: Make a Plan for Yourself, Family and Friends; Plan to Help Your Neighbor and Community; Practice and Build Out Your Plans; and Get Involved! Be a Part of Something Larger.

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