The Department of Defense (DOD) has announced its recruiting and retention statistics for the active and reserve components for fiscal year 2008. DOD is calling this the strongest recruiting year they've had since fiscal year 2004.

President Bush signed two veterans’ bills into law last Friday, an omnibus benefits bill and a package of health-related legislation, according to an article in the Air Force Times.

The first bill increases the amount of the VA home loan guarantee program. It also improves the processing of disability claims, and requires the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) to use simple language when denying claims, or requesting more information to process claims. Additionally, it strengthens enforcement of employment and reemployment rights for reservists. It also allows service members deployed overseas for 90 days or longer or who make a permanent change-of-station move to cancel or suspend a cell phone contract without penalties or extra fees.

The other bill increases the mileage reimbursement rate for VA beneficiary travel to 28.5 center per mile, and makes it easier for veterans to receive emergency care in non-VA facilities. It also increases funding for programs to prevent homelessness for veterans.