OTSG DPA Weekly Sends April 21, 2020

What you need to know 1. The Army Surgeon General, LTG R. Scott Dingle, “TSG SENDS: COVID-19 and Army Medicine” messages from this week are included for your awareness. Please read!

• Published TSG Sends (April 14)• Published TSG Sends (April 15)• Published TSG Sends (April 16)

2. On April 20, the DOD extended the Stop Movement Order to reduce the spread of COVID-19, to protect U.S. personnel and preserve the operational readiness of our global force. The DOD has procedures in place to allow for the resumption of travel for several categories of travelers that were previously suspended but are extending the travel restrictions where necessary to June 30.

• Order (Click here)• PAG TP’s (Click here)• FAQ (Click here)

3. DOD COVID-19 Talking Points, Updated April 20. (Click Here)

4. DOD COVID-19 Media Fact Sheet – April 21. (Click Here)

5. Force Health Protection (Supplement 8) DOD Guidance for Protecting Personnel in Workplaces during the Response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic, April 13. (Click Here)

6. DVIDS Center for COVID PA Products: https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/COVID19

7. COVID-19 Information:• Army Medicine COVID-19 Hotline: 1-800-984-8523 or DSN 312-421-3700.• Army: https://www.army.mil/coronavirus/• APHC: https://phc.amedd.army.mil/topics/campaigns/covid19/• CDC Web Page: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html• DoD Web Page: https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus/• Health.mil Web Page: https://health.mil/News/In-the-Spotlight/Coronavirus• TRICARE Web Page: https://tricare.mil/coronavirus

Army Medicine Week in Review Articles: 1. These astronauts just returned to Earth to find a world now transformed by the coronavirus(April 17) https://www.cnn.com/2020/04/17/world/astronauts-return-earth-coronavirus-scn/index.html

OTSG DPA Weekly Sends April 21, 2020

2. NASA Astronauts Meir, Morgan, Crewmate Skripochka Return from Space Station (April 17)https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-astronauts-meir-morgan-crewmate-skripochka-return-from-space-station

3. COVID-19: Army Ramps Up Testing, Vaccine R&D (April 16)https://breakingdefense.com/2020/04/covid-19-army-forges-ahead-up-testing-vaccine-rd/

4. Pentagon allows service members to keep more leave time amid pandemic (April 16)https://www.stripes.com/news/us/pentagon-allows-service-members-to-keep-more-leave-time-amid-pandemic-1.626365

5. Soldiers Who Built Seattle Field Hospital Will Soon Get New Mission (April 16)https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/04/16/soldiers-who-built-seattle-field-hospital-will-soon-get-new-mission.html

6. Welcome Home! Army Doc Returns from International Space Stationhttps://www.dvidshub.net/news/367560/welcome-home-army-doc-returns-international-space-station

7. Managing stress and anxiety during coronavirus, (April 14)https://www.army.mil/article/234533

8. COVID-19 and its impact on healthcare in Europe (April 14)https://www.army.mil/article/234570

Resources: 1. OPSEC COVID-19 Critical Information (Click Here)

2. MEDCOM OTSG Critical Information List (CIL) (Click Here)

3. Teleworking Fact Sheet - APHC Ergonomics (Click Here)

Videos: 1. LTG Dingle 2020 Medical Specialist Corps Anniversary (April 15)https://www.dvidshub.net/video/747621/2020-medical-specialist-corps-anniversary

2. RHC-E Video on COVID-19 and substance abuse (April 17)https://www.dvidshub.net/video/747982/coronavirus-and-substance-abuse

3. RHC-E Video on Virtual Health Patient How-To (April 17)https://www.dvidshub.net/video/747998/virtual-health-patient-video

4. RHC-E Video on LRMC builds COVID-19 testing capabilities at Camp Bondsteel (April 17)https://www.facebook.com/LRMCofficialpage/videos/2646878938971232/

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OTSG DPA Weekly Sends April 21, 2020

5. RHC-E Video on Virtual Health “Bridging the Gap” (April 15)https://www.dvidshub.net/video/747343/bridging-gap

6. RHC-E Video on Virtual Health “Bridging the Gap” (April 13)https://www.dvidshub.net/video/747343/bridging-gap

MEDCOM Graphics: (Click Here)

Media Engagements / Events: 1. U.S. Army Press Conference on COVID-19 on April 16:https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2152667/army-leaders-provide-update-on-covid-19-response/

2. On April 15, the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army (VCSA), Gen. Martin, hosted the first COVID-19focused Military Service Organization/Veteran Service Organization (MSO/VSO) call. TheSurgeon General, Lt. Gen. Dingle, Chief of Army Reserves, Lt. Gen. Luckey, and Deputy Director ofthe Army National Guard, Maj. Gen. Johnson participated. Representatives from Army G-1 and G-9were also on the line to assist with questions on stop movement, PCS, housing, and quality oflife. Resounding themes echoed by leaders on the call was the priority of the health and safety ofour Soldiers, civilians, and families as well as how the National Guard, Reserve, and Active Dutycomponents of the Army have come together as one. A powerful quote from the VCSA thatresonated well with the audience was, “Despite physical distance, leaders are still leading.”

3. The U.S. Army hosted a media roundtable with Maj. Gen. Thomas Solhjem, Chief ArmyChaplain; Dr. James Helis, Director of Army Resiliency Directorate; Col. Dennis Sarmiento, chiefof the Army Surgeon General Behavioral Health Division; and Col. Steve Lewis, deputy director ofthe Army Quality of Life Task Force, on Army resiliency efforts in light of COVID-19 via ateleconference on April 14. No recording of the engagement is available.

Articles from the event: A. Telehealth, virtual counseling available to Soldiers (April 13)https://www.army.mil/article/234510?a

B. The COVID-19 pandemic could actually result in more accessible behavioral healthcare for soldiers and families (April 14) https://taskandpurpose.com/news/army-coronavirus-behavioral-health-care

Upcoming Events 1. Army will host a weekly COVID-19 press conference scheduled for Thursday, April 23, with thetime TBD. You can watch live at: https://www.defense.gov/Watch/Live-Events/

2. The Defense Health Agency (DHA) will host a MSO/VSO round table on Wednesday, April 22from 1300-1500 EDT. MG Crosland will represent OTSG.

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TSG Sends April 14, 2020

Army Medicine Family,

We are continuing to do our part to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19. In some of the more challenged areas such as the New York region, Boston, Dallas, and New Orleans, we are making the shift to integrate our capabilities into local hospitals. In the last couple of days, one of our Army Reserve Urban Augmentation Medical Task Forces began operating at the TCF Center in Detroit. In New York, we also have more than 400 medical professionals embedded in local NYC hospitals.

Sixty of our newly graduated Combat Medics are off to installations nationwide to be ready to serve and support mission requirements during this global pandemic. More and more of our Army Reserve medical assets are also entering the fight. We have nearly 2,000 Army Reserve personnel supporting the military's national response to COVID-19. In Florida, the National Guard also completed in-home COVID-19 testing of home-bound residents at two nursing and rehabilitation facilities. This pandemic really highlights the importance of Total Force readiness to meet the mission. All of us, regardless of component, must be ready at any time to answer the call of our Nation.

On the science front, we continue to work toward measures to prevent, detect, and treat the virus. Army Futures Command's U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command reports Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is testing multiple versions of a vaccine candidate. They are still looking at 12-18 months before a vaccine would be widely available, but, they're working hard on it.

Army Public Health Center and WRAIR are also leaning forward with regard to the potential behavioral health effects on the force from the COVID-19 crisis. Several commands will participate in a behavioral health assessment to help identify potential behavioral health effects to guide possible future treatment or support requirements. We acknowledge that there could be some long-term effects on our Soldiers and we want to get ahead of this.

Finally, last week, the Honorable David Norquist, Deputy Secretary of Defense, approved a 90-day pause on the transition of our MTFs to the DHA and the associated activities. This will allow the Military Health System to focus our collective efforts on the whole-of-government COVID-19 response. The pause will extend the Service Direct Support role to the DHA accordingly and also delay the transition of the next five Market offices (Tidewater, San Antonio, Colorado Springs, Puget Sound, and Hawaii). This decision will be assessed after 45 days to determine the way ahead and timeline.

Continue protecting yourselves and others by following the CDC guidelines for prevention. I need you to stay healthy in order to remain engaged in the fight. Wear face coverings in setting where social distancing is difficult to maintain, clean surfaces, and wash your hands. We're on an urban battlefield and the invisible enemy is on our door step. Be vigilant.

In addition to the helpful links I have included in other updates, I’ve included links below to articles about some of the great work you are doing or enabling. I encourage you to read them. Thank you for all that you do.

Army Medicine is Army Strong!

TSG 45

R. SCOTT DINGLE

LTG, USA The Surgeon General

Army Medicine Articles: 1. https://www.army.mil/article/2344732. https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2020/04/10/army-medical-teams-dispatched-to-four-states-with-more-planned/3. https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2145830/military-medicine-on-front-lines-of-covid-19-response4. https://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/New-medics-leave-Fort-Sam-in-battle-against-15194843.php5. https://www.stripes.com/news/us/military-to-send-more-troops-into-nyc-hospitals-to-aid-stressed-medical-personnel-1.625681

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TSG Sends April 15, 2020

Army Medicine Family,

It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of the passing of Mr. Anthony Brooks, a combat veteran, teammate, and Service Contracts Chief in our Business Office in San Antonio. Mr. Brooks was proceeded in death by his spouse on 12 April 2020. The family advised that he passed away yesterday afternoon. Anthony was a valued member of our team and he will be missed.

We will share information on the funeral or memorial service arrangements once released from Anthony's family.

We offer our sincere condolences and ask you to please keep Anthony and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Respectfully,

R. SCOTT DINGLELTG, USAThe Surgeon General

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TSG Sends April 16, 2020

Army Medicine Family,

I'd like to take a few moments to honor the Army Medical Specialist Corps as they celebrate their 73rd Anniversary on April 16. While we are unable to gather in person to celebrate this occasion, it is still important to pause and recognize the history and contributions of the Medical Specialist Corps to Army Medicine.

Despite being one of the smallest Corps in Army Medicine, they provide some of the most unique and impactful services to our Army, from clinical treatment to performance optimization. The Corps consist of four areas of concentration; occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistants, and dietitians.

Today, Medical Specialist Corps officers are deployed and demonstrating their inimitable skillsets and superior leadership abilities in support of COVID-19 response efforts.

Please join CSM Gragg and me as we salute the Army Medical Specialist Corps on their anniversary.

Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/747621/2020-medical-service-corps-anniversary

Army Medicine is Army Strong!

TSG 45

R. SCOTT DINGLELTG, USAThe Surgeon General

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SECRETARY OF DEFENSE 1000 DEFENSE PENTAGON

WASHINGTON, DC 20301 - 1000

APR 2 0 2020

MEMORA DUM FOR CHIEF MA AGEME T OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFE SE

SECRETAR1ES OF THE MILITARY DEPARTMENTS CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF UNDER SECRET ARIES OF DEFENSE CHIEF OF THE NATIO lAL GUARD BUREAU COMMANDERS OF THE COMBAT ANT COMMANDS GENERAL COUNSEL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE DIRECTOR OF COST ASSESSMENT AND PROGRAM

EVALUATION INSPECTOR GENERAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONAL TEST AND EVALUATION CHIEF INFORMATIO OFFICER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF

DEFENSE ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR LEGISLATIVE

AFFAIRS ASSIST A T TO THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR PUBLIC

AFFAIRS DIRECTOR OF NET ASSESSMENT DIRECTORS OF DEFE SE AGENCIES DIRECTORS OF DOD FIELD ACTIVITfES

SUBJECT: Modification and Reissuance of DoD Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019 -Travel Restrictions

References: (a) Secretary of Defense Memorandum, "Travel Restrictions for DoD Components in Response to Corona virus Disease 20 19," March 11, 2020 (hereby cancelled)

(b) Deputy Secretary of Defense Memorandum, "Stop Movement for all Domestic Travel for DoD Components in Response to Coronavirus Disease 20 19," March 13, 2020 (hereby cancelled)

(c) MOD I TO REVISTO 01 TO DOD RESPO SE TO CORONAVIRUS-20 19 EXORD, March 24, 2020 (hereby cance lled)

(d) Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Memorandum, "Modifications for Authorized Depa1tures and Ordered Departures Related to COVID-19," Apri l 3, 2020

(e) Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness Memorandum, "Force Health Protection Guidance (Supplement 4) -Department of Defense Guidance for Personnel Travel ing During the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak," March L I, 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVTD-19) continues to present significant risk to our fo rces as the DoD considers domestic and overseas personnel travel. These movements present

ill 1111 11 OS D003915-20/CM D004 731-20

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the threat of spreading COVID-19 within our ranks and communities. My p1i orities remain -protecting our Serv ice members, DoD civilians, and families; safeguarding our national security capabilities; and supporting the whole-of-nation response.

Effective immediately, this memorandum cancels references (a), (b), and (c) and reissues travel rest1iction guidance for DoD Components that will remain in effect until June 30, 2020.

Travel Restrictions

All DoD Service members will stop movement, both internationally and domestically, while thi s memorandum is in effect. All DoD civi lian personnel, and dependents of DoD Serv ice members and DoD civilian personnel, whose travel is Government-funded will stop movement, both internationally and domestica ll y, while this memorandum is in effect.

Except as provided below, this stop movement applies to all official travel, including temporary duty (TOY) travel; Government-funded leave travel; permanent duty travel, including Pern1anent Change of Station (PCS) travel; and travel related to Authorized and Ordered Departures issued by the Department of State. For DoD Service members, it also includes personal leave outside the local area and non-official travel outside the local area. DoD Components may onboard civilian employees within the local commuting area only, and civilian employees whose travel to the local commuting area is not government-funded.

Exemptions

The following circumstances are exempt from these travel restrictions:

a. Travel associated with unifom1ed personnel recruiting and accessions activities, to inc lude accessions, basic training, advanced individual training, and follow-on travel to the first duty station. The Mi li tary Depa11ments will notify me prior to reducing or suspending recruiting, accessions, basic training, or advanced individual training.

b. Travel by patients, as well as their authorized esco11s and attendants, for purposes of medical treatment. Travel by medica l providers for the purposes of medical treatment for DoD personnel and their families is also authorized.

c. Travel fo r Global Force Management (GFM) activities (defined as deployments/redeployments ordered in the GFM Allocation Plan and Combatant Command Assigned Force Demand tasking, including Service internal rotations to support, and TOY used to source ordered capabiliti es). Such travel to execute Operations, Activities, and Investments or Serv ice-related training will be coordinated between the Combatant Command, the Joint Staff, and the appropriate Military Depa1tment. A ll GFM-sched uled deployments/redeployments of U.S. Navy vessel and embarked units and per onnel is authorized, provided they are in-transit and have met the 14-day restriction of movement provided fo r under reference ( e ), and any applicable subsequent guidance.

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d. Travel by authorized travelers who depa1ted their pe1manent duty stat ion and are " awaiting transportation," and by authorized travelers who have already initiated travel (including intermediate stops). Such travelers are authorized to continue travel to their final destination on approved orders.

e. Trave l by authorized travelers whose TDY ends whi le this directive is in effect. Such travelers are authorized to return to the ir pe1111anent duty station.

f. Trave l authorized by the Commander, U.S. Transpo1t ation Command (USTRA 'SCOM), to continue execution of the Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise as required to project and su ta in the Joint Force globally. This includes forces (aircrews, vessel crews, and mission essential personnel) ordered on prepare­to-deploy orders alert status, air refueling, global patient movement, mortuary affairs support, in land surface, sea and air sustainment missions, suppo1t to other U .S. Agenc ies (as approved by me), and moves of personnel and equipment that suppo1t USTRANSCOM's global posture requirements.

g. Trave l by individuals pending retirement or separation.

h. Trave l by those under authority of a Chief of Mission and authorized by that Chief of Miss ion.

Waivers

As set forth be low, waivers to this directive may be granted in writing in cases where the travel is : ( 1) dete1mined to be mission-essential; (2) necessary for humanitarian reasons; or (3) wa1Tanted due to extreme hardship . These wai vers are to be executed on a case-by-case basis, must be determined to be in the best interest of the U.S. Government, and shall be coordinated between the gaining and los ing organizations. Mission-essential travel refers to work that must be perfonned to e nsure the continued operations of mission-essential functions, including positions that are deemed key and essential, as determined by the responsible DoD Component.

Approval authority for waivers belongs to:

a. The Combatant Commander if the individual is ass igned or allocated to a Combatant Command;

b. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff if the individual is assigned to the Joint Staff;

c. The Secretary of the Military Depa1tment concerned for personnel under his/her j uri sd i cti on;

d. The C hief of the ational Guard Bureau ( GB) for all personnel assigned, attached, or allocated to the NGB and, for travel using Federal funds, all travel by title 32 and title 5 personnel assigned throughout the National Guard; and

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e. The Chief Management Officer for personnel in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Defense Agencies, DoD Field Activities, and any other DoD entities not listed above.

This authority to approve waivers may be delegated in writing no lower than the first general or flag officer or member of the Senior Executive Service or equivalent in the traveler ' s chain of command or supervision. Delegations previously authorized under references (a) through (c) remain in effect unti l those delegations are rescinded or superseded. References in p1ior delegations to "member of the Senior Executive Service" are deemed to include equivalent personnel.

Additional Guidance

The restri ctions above give preeminence to the safety and security of our personnel, their famili es, and our communities. During this period of travel restriction, the Department will take several measures to enhance traveler safety, lessen the burden on DoD personnel and their famili es, and ensure con tinued operations. Each of your organizations, as applicable, will take immediate action to:

a. Clearly communicate the contents of this directive to those individuals affected by these travel rest1ictions;

b. Establish pre- and post-travel screening and reception procedures for all authorized travelers as provided in reference (e) and any applicable subsequent guidance, to include establishing a means of communication with all personnel throughout the pre­and post-travel screening and reception process and providing information regarding prescr ibed actions for their particular circumstances;

c. Use military- or DoD-contracted end-to-end travel using aircraft or other conveyance fo r DoD-sponsored travelers to the greatest extent practical;

d. Inform all travelers of their responsibil ity to contact their gaining organization in advance of travel and to keep the organization updated on their travel itinerary;

e. Document within travel orders the exemption or waiver under which the travel is authorized; and

f. When practicable within operational requirements, consider either in-place ass ignment extensions or the applicability of waivers for PCS moves for unifonned personnel with school-age dependents in order to minimize school year disruption and educati on costs.

The Depa11ment will maintain a continuous conditions-based assessment of the COVID-19 pandemic, to include the ab ility of Force Providers, Combatant Commands, and USTRA SCOM to meet travel restriction requirements; host nation policy considerations regarding DoD force deployments; and COVID- t 9-related infrastructure at f01w ard deployed

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locations. Based on this asse sment, I will rev iew this policy every 15 days to dete1m ine if travel can resume earlier than June 30, 2020. As we continue to monitor the rapidly evolving COYID-19 outbreak, thi s gu idance w ill be updated, as warranted, consistent with the priorities outli ned in the first paragraph of this memorandu m.

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TALKING POINTS TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS – “STOP MOVE”

A P R I L 2 0 , 2 0 2 0

• The department remains committed to the Secretary’s three priorities –protecting our force, DOD civilians & their families; safeguarding ournational security capabilities; & supporting the whole-of-nation response.

• The stop movement order is taken to aid in further prevention of thespread of COVID-19, to protect U.S. personnel and preserve theoperational readiness of our global force.

• The rapidly changing environment has created significant risks to servicemembers, as the DOD continues personnel movements and travel.

• KEY POINT: The Department now has procedures in place to allow forthe resumption of travel for several categories of travelers that werepreviously suspended; but we are not out of the woods yet and areextending the travel restrictions where necessary to June 30, 2020.

• The travel restrictions do not apply to the following categories of travel:o NEW: All Global Force Management (GFM) scheduled deployments

and redeployments.o EXPANDED: Authorized travelers who departed their Permanent Duty

Station and are “awaiting transportation” and have already initiatedtravel (including intermediate stops).

o EXPANDED: Travel by patients and medical providers for thepurposes of medical treatment for DoD personnel and their families.

o Authorized travelers whose TDY ends while this directive is in effect.o Individuals pending retirement or separation.o The Services will continue to recruit and assess new members of our

military. The Services are putting procedures in place to safelycontinue recruiting and training.

• Individuals may still be approved to travel for mission, humanitarian, orpersonal hardship reasons, as they have been since the travel restrictionswere imposed.

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FAQ – TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS (As of April 20, 2020.)

Q1. What is being done to ensure our service members are safe in their travels and keep them healthy? A1. The actions outlined in Secretary Esper’s April 20 memo are done to protect our personnel and their families. The Department will take several measures to enhance traveler safety, such as establishing pre- and post-travel screening and reception procedures and transitioning to military and DoD contracted aircraft. Additionally, DoD has instituted domestic and international official travel restrictions through June 30, 2020 (e.g., Permanent Change of Station and Temporary Duty) to safeguard our people. We encourage all DoD personnel and families to visit https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus/ for tips on staying healthy.

Q2. Why did DoD institute travel restrictions on its people? A2. In order to help limit COVID-19’s spread and its impact on the force, the Secretary of Defense has issued updated travel restrictions for both international and domestic travel.

Q3. Who do the travel restrictions apply to? A3. All DoD service members and civilians, and their family members will stop all official travel – such as Permanent Change of Station or Temporary Duty – through June 30, 2020. Exceptions may be given for compelling cases where the travel is: (1) determined to be mission essential; (2) necessary for humanitarian reasons; or (3) warranted due to extreme hardship.

Q4. When do the travel restrictions go into effect? A4. This is an amendment and extension of existing restrictions put in place in March 2020.

Q5. If somebody is already TDY or a family has departed for their CONUS PCS, what should they do? A5. Those who have already begun their travel may continue on to their final destination. Individuals whose TDY ends within stop movement period may return home. They should still be mindful of the health protection measures like social distancing and handwashing during their travels.

Q6. Does the travel restrictions affect those who must travel for medical treatment? A6. No. Travel for medical treatment is still allowed.

Q7. Can military members still take leave? A7. Service members may only take leave in the local area. This is being done to limit the spread of and potential exposure to COVID-19. Exceptions may be given for compelling

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cases where the travel is necessary for humanitarian reasons or warranted due to extreme hardship.

Q8. When the restrictions lift, will everyone begin moving? A8. DoD is working with the Services to determine prioritization to balance the needs to individual service members, families and maintain operational readiness. Additionally, Secretary Esper has specifically directed that PCS moves for uniformed personnel with school-age dependents should be prioritized to minimize school year disruption and education costs, or considered for in-place assignment extensions.

Q9. Will DoD designate specific locations that service members returning CONUS must travel to in order to be placed under the 14-day restriction of movement? A9. There is no designated location for returning personnel. Each service member will stay at home or other appropriate domicile coordinated with the parent command for 14 days, practice social distancing, and conduct self-monitoring. All required pre-travel screening will be adhered to in accordance with the Force Health Protection guidance supplement #4: https://media.defense.gov/2020/Mar/11/2002263241/-1/-1/1/FORCE-HEALTH-PROTECTION-GUIDANCE-SUPPLEMENT-4.PDF

Q10. What about individuals who have had their household goods picked up but haven’t departed their location? A10. Each situation is different. Individuals will need to contact their shipping office to determine if their household goods are still in the local area and whether or not they may have access to them. If their household goods are in transit to the new location they should contact their servicing personnel office to verify if their orders still authorize continuing on the previous move or if they need to be amended.

Q11. What about my POV? I have an upcoming appointment to drop my car off at the Vehicle Processing Center (VPC). What should I do? A11: If you are unsure if the stop movement order applies to you, contact your chain of command. If the stop movement order does not apply to your PCS—or your chain of command has approved an exception to the order—proceed to the VPC as planned.

Q12: I’ve already dropped my POV off, but my PCS has been delayed. Can I get my car back? A12: If you’re interested in retrieving your vehicle, contact the VPC immediately. VPCs are postured to assist customers with changing appointments, vehicle retrieval, and answering any other POV-related questions you have.

Q13. Is DoD planning to assist service members who have already terminated their leases in anticipation of a move within 30 days? A13. DoD will use all means available to assist service members who were impacted by COVID-19. Please contact your chain of command for assistance.

Q14. Will the military cover their temporary housing until they can travel? Can they put the charges on their government travel card?

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A14. DoD will use all means available to assist service members who were impacted by COVID-19. Approved reimbursable travel expenses are authorized to be placed on the government travel card. Please contact your chain of command for assistance.

Q15. What kind of help is out there for a service member and family delayed in his/her PCS? Q15. For service members: If a service member is ordered to temporarily return to the old PDS or to an alternate location, then the service member could be issued TDY orders and may be authorized standard travel and transportation allowances in accordance with Joint Travel Regulation (JTR), Chapter 2. If the service member is ordered to remain in place or to an alternate location to await transportation, then per diem may be authorized in accordance with JTR Chapter 5, Part A. If lodging in kind or meals in kind are provided, then per diem is not payable.

For dependents: If the service member’s dependents remain in place awaiting transportation, then per diem may be authorized in accordance with JTR Chapter 5, Part A. If dependents do not remain in place awaiting transportation, then per diem is not authorized. If the dependents are authorized to temporarily return to the old PDS or to an alternate location to await transportation, then the dependents may be authorized standard PCS allowances from the location where notified of the delay to the location named in the amended PCS order, in accordance with JTR, Chapter 5, Part A. If lodging in kind or meals in kind are provided, then per diem is not payable.

Q16. Is there a freeze on civilian hiring in the affected locations? A16. Yes, there is a freeze on hiring actions that involve PCS overseas. DoD Components may continue local hiring. In the United States, only candidates within the local commuting area may onboard because of DoD’s restriction on official domestic travel that lasts through 30 June. As stated in the travel restriction guidance, exceptions may be granted for compelling cases where the travel is: (1) determined to be mission essential; (2) necessary for humanitarian reasons; or (3) warranted due to extreme hardship.

Q17. Does this travel memo affect contractors traveling to and from those locations? A17. We advise contractors to check with their companies.

Q18. What does government-funded leave actually mean? A18. Government-funded leave is leave by a military member or DoD civilian employee whose leave involves Government-funded travel. One example is renewal agreement travel by civilian employees.

Q19. Can service members currently on leave in CONUS return overseas to a country they are stationed in? A19. Service members should contact their chain of command.

Q20. Can service members ETS and retire within the directive window? Q20. Individuals who separate or retire are exempt from the travel restrictions.

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Q21. Will Reserve service members who are deployed be permitted to redeploy CONUS upon completion of orders? A21.Yes, unless extended to meet mission requirements.

Q22. How does this affect your relationship with host nations? A22. We are working with partner nations in impacted regions to ensure the health and safety of our members as operations continue.

Q23. Who is the waiver authority for travel exceptions? A23. Approval authority for these exceptions belongs to the combatant commander for those assigned to combatant commands. The Chairman may approve exceptions for the Joint Staff. The Secretary of the Military Department concerned and the Chief Management Officer, in the case of Defense Field Activities and Field Agencies, retain the authority for all other individuals. They may delegate the authority to no lower than the first general officer, flag officer, or member of the Senior Executive Service in the traveler’s chain of command or supervision.

Q24. How does this affect service members who are about to deploy, are deployed, or are about to redeploy home? A24. In partnership with host nations, the Services and Combatant Commands will make decisions based on the circumstances of each deployment and the status of COVID-19’s spread. The intent is for the Department to continue to move forces as required to meet operational needs and our alliance commitments.

Q25. What should service members do if they are already on leave outside of the local area? A25. They should contact their supervisor to get instructions on how to proceed.

Q26. Do have to cancel their leave early? Q26. DoD employees should contact their supervisor.

Q27. Does the leave restriction apply to family members? A27. The leave restriction applies only to service members. However, we encourage family members to follow the local authorities and CDC guidance, which may advise limitations on travel.

Q28. If service members are TDY in the United States can they come back home? A28. Service members should contact their supervisors to get instructions specific to their circumstances.

Q29. Will this affect people waiting to go to Basic Military Training / Officer Training School? A29. The services will continue to recruit and assess new members of our military. The Services are putting procedures in place to safely continue recruiting and training.

COVID-19 TALKING POINTS (Updated April 21, 2020)

Priority Messaging DoD is providing military manpower and equipment – both capacity and capability – to

state and local authorities to help combat COVID-19, and is shifting its focus to otherpotential hotspots.

Protecting our people has remained a DoD priority from the start. We must take thoseprudent measures to limit COVID-19’s spread, while also ensuring our people aretrained and ready to defend the nation.

Supporting State and Local Authorities U.S. Northern Command, in support of FEMA, is leading the DoD response to COVID-

19 efforts in the continental United States.o DoD is aggressively pursuing a three-pronged effort in New York City through the

high end capability provided by the USNS Comfort, large capacity within the JavitsCenter, and augmentation of medical professionals directly to local hospitals.

o DoD is ensuring other hotspots around our country receive the support they need.

38,700+ National Guardsmen are supporting COVID-19 response at the direction oftheir governors. State priorities are focused on testing and screening, as well asproviding logistical support through warehousing and distribution of medical suppliesand food.

The Army Corps of Engineers in concert with federal, state and local partners arebringing their talents to bear to convert buildings in to temporary hospitals.o USACE is executing 49 FEMA Mission Assignments totaling $1.7 billion, with

15,000 personnel engaged and 1,812 deployed in support of COVID-19 responseoperations. USACE has assessed over 1,115 sites for possible use as AlternateCare Facilities (ACF) and is currently constructing 32 ACFs to add 15,800 beds tostates and cities with critical bed shortages, with another 6 facilities pendingcontract award for an additional 990 beds.

Supporting Our Partners DoD is supporting our Allies and Partners’ COVID-19 response activities by providing

critical medical equipment, transporting humanitarian cargo, and sharing the expertiseof our DoD Labs that are strategically located around the globe.o To date, DoD has provided approximately $2 million in humanitarian assistance to

34 partner nations through the provision of medical and personal protectiveequipment and the transportation of humanitarian cargo.

o DoD’s overseas laboratories continue to augment Allies’ and Partners’ COVID-19bio-surveillance activities.

Overseas Army and Navy research laboratories perform bio-surveillanceactivities in support of international partners globally. Through the DefenseHealth Agency’s labs, over $6.9M in COVID-19 bio-surveillance activities

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have been conducted in approximately 400 surveillance sites in over 30countries to limit disease spread and maintain readiness of militarymembers.

o DoD’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency has provided $1.1 million in laboratoryand diagnostic supplies to over 28 partner nations in Africa, Asia, Europe, andSouth America in support of COVID-19 response efforts.

Protecting our People DoD will continue to safeguard U.S. national interests and those of our allies and

partners throughout this crisis.

Commanders must balance mission requirements with force health protection.o The Secretary of Defense has given commanders the authorities they need to make

necessary decisions to protect their forces.o Commanders are empowered to take necessary precautions because the virus is

unique to every situation and every location.

We ask our people to take actions to protect themselves and those around them byemploying protective measures including practicing good hand washing, socialdistancing, and taking appropriate actions if feeling sick.

The Secretary of Defense has directed multiple efforts to mitigate the pandemic’simpact on our people and set the bar for precautions.o Directed wear of cloth masks for instances where social distancing is not possible.o Enacted a stop movement order.o Raised the HPCON level for all DoD installations.o Cancelled and/or modified exercises.o Maximized teleworking where possible.

Online resources:o www.coronavirus.govo www.cdc.gov/coronaviruso www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/Coronavirus/o www.militaryonesource.mil/coronavirus

DoD COVID-19 UPDATE A p r i l 2 1 , 2 0 2 0

DoD Response Timeline COVID-19 Response Imagery

Key Developments: 54,800+ DoD personnel supporting COVID relief U.S. Northern Command is responsible for

DoD’s active-duty operations in response toCOVID-19 with almost 15,000 peopledeployed, including nearly 4,200 medicalpersonnel, in support of response operations.o New York City – DoD continues pursuit

of the three-pronged effort in New YorkCity with the high end capability providedby the USNS Comfort, large capacity ofthe Javits Center, and medicalprofessionals augmenting local hospitals.Six Army Urban Augmentation MedicalTask Forces (UAMTF) currently supportthe Javits Center and local hospitals.

o DoD is ensuring other hotspots aroundour country are receiving the supportthey need.

New Jersey – One Army UAMTFis supporting the EdisonExposition Center, another is at Newark University Hospital, and a third inAtlantic City is expected to reach initial operational capability today.

Stamford, CT – The UAMTF at the Bennett Medical Center is treatingpatients.

Boston, MA – One UAMTF is operational at the Boston Convention andExposition Center. Another UAMTF is onboarding at Tewksbury Hospital andwill be fully operational this week.

Pennsylvania – One UAMTF is integrating in to the Temple UniversityAlternate Care Facility and is expected to fully operational today.

Detroit, MI – The UAMTF at the TCF Center is treating patients. Louisiana – The Navy Expeditionary Medical Facility detachment in New

Orleans at the Ernest M. Morial Convention Center is treating patients, aswell as providing support in Baton Rouge.

Georgia Army National Guardsman Spc. GaryPoppell, a motor transportation sergeant with theAugusta-based 1148th Transportation Company,unloads breakfast meals, April 20. Guardsmen areassisting Atlanta Public Sschools in the packagingand delivery of almost 47,000 school meals perweek during the COVID-19 response.

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National Guardo 38,700+ National Guardsmen are supporting COVID-19 response at the direction of

their governors. State priorities are focused on testing and screening, as well asproviding logistical support through warehousing and distribution of medicalsupplies and food.

The New York National Guard has more than 3,600 troops performing dutiesranging from answering public inquiry hotlines to helping New York Cityretrieve the remains of those who have died at home.

North Carolina National Guard liaison officers are embedded in stateemergency management offices assisting with medical surge planning andfood distribution missions.

The Arizona National Guard is delivering personal protective equipment anddonated food to the Navajo Nation.

The Washington National Guard has distributed more than 698,000 meals,and over 3 million pounds of food while supporting food bank operations.

The Georgia National Guard completed infection control missions in 483nursing homes, and medical support teams are helping with medical capacityin one nursing home and 20 hospitals across the state.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineerso USACE is executing 49 FEMA Mission Assignments totaling $1.7 billion, with

15,000 personnel engaged and 1,812 deployed in support of COVID-19 responseoperations. USACE has assessed over 1,115 sites for possible use as AlternateCare Facilities (ACFs) and is currently constructing 32 ACFs to add 15,800 beds tostates and cities with critical bed shortages, with another 6 facilities pendingcontract award for an additional 990 beds.

o The Miami Beach Convention Center ACF is finished: 5 miles of copper tubingoxygen lines; 50 miles of electrical cable; 100 miles of Cat-6 data cable; 450 beds,50 of which are ICU beds; pharmacy and clean supply storage; medical staff restarea, showers, and decontamination space. Transformation of a 1.4 million squarefoot convention center into an ACF will give Florida doctors and emergencymanagers flexibility in fighting COVID-19. It was all done in two weeks anddelivered to the state of Florida ahead of schedule.

DoD News Update to Travel Restrictions DoD Providing Leave Leniency Due to COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Hospital Ship USNS Comfort Admits New Jersey Patients DLA Distribution Susquehanna ships urgent COVID-19 supplies Florida Guard Aids COVID-19 Testing at Veterans Nursing Home Cyber Criminals Don't Brake for Pandemics DLA helps Army donate 1,300 cots to the Philippines’ COVID-19 response

DoD Cumulative Totals, 0500, April 21, 2020

Cumulative Cases

Cumulative Hospitalized

Cumulative Recovered

Cumulative Deaths

Military 3,496 (+58) 79 (+7) 990 (+131) 2

Civilian 902 (+18) 76 212 (+8) 10

Dependent 757 (+5) 32 201 (+12) 3

Contractor 420 (+7) 58 (+2) 80 7

Total 5,575 (+88) 245 (+9) 1,483 (+151) 22

Cases USA USAF USMC USN NGB DoD

Agencies

Military 841 (+22) 338 (+8) 253 (+3) 1,252 (+12) 682 (+10) 130 (+3)

Today’s Events

1115 Press Brief: USNORTHCOM Commander General Terrence O’Shaughnessy,U.S. Army North Commander Lieutenant General Laura Richardson

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1

HQDA COVID-19 Critical Information List

• Pre-decisional Army deliberations on potentialpolicies, plans, and activities related to the Army’s

response to COVID-19

• Number of Army personnel (Soldiers, Army Civilians,Contractors, Family members, Retirees) withCOVID-19 or in isolation, quarantine, or possiblyinfected

• Army vulnerabilities and gaps created by COVID-19

• Potential (pre-decisional) COVID-19 impacts toArmy training, operations, exercise, andmodernization efforts

• Pre-decisional Army capabilities potentially availableto support DSCA efforts to counter COVID-19,including but not limited to:

• Units, task organization, capacity/beds to provideinpatient and outpatient care

• Isolation, diagnosis, and treatment capacity• Critical shortages of sensitive medical items• Shortages of medical personnel by

AOC/MOS/ASI• Facilities for quarantine of personnel

(military/civilian) returning from overseas

HQDA COVID-19 OPSEC Mandatory Measures

• Move all work on the Army COVID-19 Campaign Plan to SIPRdue to the sensitive nature of the content

• Restrict pre-decisional COVID-19 deliberations to personnel witha need to know; non-disclosure agreements required for HQDA-level planning

• Never release internal planning documents to the public or media

• Only OSD/ASLs will release numbers of confirmed COVID-19cases that are aggregated at DoD/Service levels - do not releasenumbers of people in isolation, quarantine or possibly infected

• Ensure all messages intended for public audiences receives bothpublic affairs and OPSEC review prior to release

• Use Army-approved collaboration methods, applications, andportals; minimize sending documents by email

• Encrypt NIPR COVID-19 email communications; use onlygovernment email networks (e.g. outlook/OWA)

• Commands will submit reports on COVID-19 positive personnelon NIPR; HQDA will report aggregated confirmed case data onSIPR

• When teleworking, do not participate in COVID-19 planning withinhearing of family members; do not print COVID-19 planningproducts at home

• Monitor organizational and Soldier and family readiness groupexternal official presence social media accounts for OPSECconsiderations

Administrative Information

• The Army protects criticalinformation from unauthorizedrelease to adversaries

• Army personnel may discusscritical information with unifiedaction partners with a need toknow

• Authorized Commanders, theirrepresentatives, and public affairsofficials may release criticalinformation to the public when:

• The Commander determinesthere is a requirement torelease the information, and

• Public affairs guidanceauthorizes release

OPERATIONS SECURITY (OPSEC)

OPERATIONS SECURITY (OPSEC)

CO

VID

-19

CR

ITIC

AL

INFO

RM

ATIO

NC

OVID

-19 CR

ITICA

L INFO

RM

ATIONUNCLASSIFIED/FOUO

HQDA POC: Army COVID Campaign PlanStrategic Narrative OPT,usarmy.pentagon.hqda-dcs-g-3-5-7.list.damo-so-covid19-strategic-@mail.mil

This guidance applies specifically toHQDA – all ACOMs, ASCCs, and DRUs

are strongly encouraged to tailor thisguidance for their commands

Endorsed by 3-Star ArmySynchronization Meeting on 08 Apr 20 Back to top

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Approved for public release; distribution unlimited

COVID-19 TELEWORK ERGONOMIC TIPS

FACT SHEET NO. 88-027-0320

FACT SHEET

The measures taken to protect our community from exposure to COVID-19 have forced us to move from office-based workers to home-based workers. Within home offices, you may find yourselves in less than ideal computer work settings. We at the U.S. Army Public Health Center Ergonomics Branch want you to know that we have your backs, wrists, and necks. The resources provided below will help you to maintain good musculoskeletal health while working for many hours at your computer in your home-based work settings.

GENERAL TIPS:

• While the couch, bed, or easy chair may seem like a comfortable workstation option;using these for an extended time will result in non-neutral postures and potentialmusculoskeletal discomfort.

• There are some simple things you can do in your home without having to invest in newchairs and desks. For example, use a good, supportive chair if possible. If you don't havea good chair available, use a pillow as a seat cushion and/or a rolled up towel as lowback support.

• Try to incorporate the 90/90/90 rule. Hips, knees, and elbows at 90 degrees.• Kitchen tables can be too high for computer work; use a pillow to raise yourself up on

your chair.• Don't let your feet dangle; use something to support your feet if you are sitting on a high

countertop height stool.• If you have access to government-approved monitors, keyboards, and mice, use those

rather than relying solely on the laptop.• If you do have a separate government-approved monitor, the very top of the monitor

should be at the same height as your eyes and placed about arm's length away from you.• If you are on a phone or conference call, stand up! Use that time to change postures and

get the blood flowing.• Take microbreaks throughout the work day to stand up, walk around, and change

position.

OTHER RESOURCES:

• Your Work-from-Home Toolbox: https://www.humantech.com/your-work-from-home-toolbox/

• Ideas for non-traditional workstations: https://www.consumerreports.org/home-office/how-to-set-up-a-home-workstation-to-avoid-muscle-strain-headaches-sore-eyes/

• And to provide some levity in this stressful time:https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/17/business/work-from-home-setups-coronavirus-trnd/index.html

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