Troop Talk
The following letter was sent by Brig. Gen. Reuben D. Jones, the Army adjutant general, who encourages all Soldiers and families to become informed and active participants in the selection of the elected officials who will lead our nation for the next four years and could have a significant impact on the military community:
“As the Army’s senior service voting representative, I strongly encourage you to participate and cast your vote in the 2008 general election. Voting is the essence of our democracy and one of our most fundamental Constitutional rights. Our elected officials have very important jobs; the good news is you have a voice in who is elected … if you vote.
“You can exercise your right to vote by completing the Federal Post Card Application Standard Form 76 or complying with the ballot request procedures enacted by the state in which you vote. The FPCA SF76, or other request, should be mailed or sent electronically as soon as possible. You should then receive your absentee ballot as requested.
“The Federal Voting Assistance Program has been working with the states to allow ballots to be submitted and received electronically. Check with your unit voting assistance officer for your state requirements.
“Mailing guidelines differ from state to state; therefore, we recommend you check your state’s guidelines by contacting your UVAO or by visiting the AVAP Web site at www.vote.army.mil. It is imperative you complete and send in your ballot immediately to ensure it is received by your hometown local election officials no later than your state’s deadline.
“If you are an overseas voter and have not received your regular absentee ballot 30 to 45 days prior to your state’s deadline, you should complete a Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot and send it to your local election official. If you later receive your absentee ballot, you should also complete and send it in for processing.
“The 2008 general election is quickly approaching, so don’t wait until the very last minute to register and or send in your absentee ballot.
“Be smart. Do your part. Vote.”
The Fort Bliss voting officer, Susan Dillard, is working with all unit voting representatives to make sure they have the materials needed to assist Soldiers with the voting process. A voting registration booth with all the forms and detailed information will be available at the Post Exchange food court from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 9, Sept. 6 and Oct. 4.
Maj. Gen. Howard B. Bromberg
Fort Bliss Commanding General