(This was sent to all IMAs and PIRRs 16 Apr 2024. If you did not receive it in your personal email, please log in to the vMPF and make sure you have a good personal email in that system.)

The RIO Buzz                                                                                             Vol 68

Are you in need of childcare while performing duty?  The Air Force Home Community Care program may be of interest to you.  Now, the Buzz:

ANNUAL TOUR ORDERS FOR THE CURRENT FY MUST BE REQUESTED NLT 31 MAY 2024
Each year IRs must submit their AT orders requests to the Orders Writing Cell (OWC) in myFSS no later than 31 May.  Any submissions after that date must have a late AT memo attached, which requires signatures from your AC CC (or unit O-6) and your detachment commander.  The memo template can be found HERE.  Rather than wait until after the deadline, submit your request ASAP to ensure funding is set aside for your AT, even if you’re not sure of the dates.  You can always request a modification later (even after 31 May) to change the dates. 
 
ISSUE WITH INCORRECT DEPENDENT INFO BEING FIXED
Some members have noticed dependent information not being correct on their CDB/SURFs.  This is a known issue with MilPDS and is being addressed.  While there is no published “get well” date, the Air Force is aware of the problem, knows the cause, and is working corrective actions.  Standby for more info!

COLD WEATHER INCENTIVE PAY – REGAF ONLY
Some of you may have heard of the new Cold Weather Location incentive pay that is now available.  Right now, it’s only available to RegAF.  If that changes, HQ RIO will send out an update.

MAKE SURE YOU’RE BOOKING LODGING CORRECTLY
If traveling to an installation where government quarters is privatized, such as the Privatization of Army Lodging (PAL) program, members must use lodging available under the Integrated Lodging Program (ILP) according to The Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) section 020303.  Members must use ILP lodging in the priority order below.
 
1.            Government quarters
2.            Privatized lodging, such as Privatized Army Lodging
3.            DoD Preferred commercial lodging
 
If government quarters or privatized lodging is not available, then members must use approved DoD Preferred lodging.  A traveler must book preferred commercial lodging through a government electronic travel system or the
contracted Travel Management Company (TMC). DoD Preferred lodging locations may be reviewed at the link HERE.
 
If you choose to stay at a lodging location other than what is authorized per the guidance above, reimbursement will be limited to the DoD Preferred rate.
 
v/r,
Col Nathan “N8” Day
HQ RIO Commander