On the Radar: Government Shutdown, TRICARE & Military Updates

Tracking this week in military life, here's what's on the radar. Day 38. This is now the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. With Republicans and Democrats deadlocked on federal spending, the FAA is preparing to cut flights to manage delays in staffing shortages, while a federal program that helps low-income households pay their heating bills could run out of money this week. Regardless of the government shutdown, TRICARE Open Season is happening from November 10th to December 9th. This is the time to review plans, compare costs, and add benefits should you choose to. Log in, check DIRS, and update your plan before December 9th. Changes take effect on January 1st. The D.C. National Guard will remain in the nation's capital through February. Nearly 2,400 troops are supporting law enforcement and community projects under an August emergency order. Flags are flying at half-staff in honor of former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away this week at the age of 84. Cheney served as the 17th Secretary of Defense from 1989 to 1993 under President George H.W. Bush. Cheney said that his time at the Pentagon was the most rewarding period of his public service career. And over on Veteran Life, don't miss our preview of Marines, a Netflix docuseries that takes you inside the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit based in Okinawa, Japan. The four-part series drops on November 10th, which happens to be the Marine Corps' 250th birthday. That's your briefing. Be sure to follow my base guide and Veteran Life so you never miss what's on the radar.