MC Bill White Column on Military Deployment

Was real busy at the end of last week and really did nothing indoors over the weekend, so it was only last night that I saw Bill White's column following up on policies and plans related to military servicemen and women (read it here).

White points out that the plans of most municipalities and the military are roughly similar, but his point was in regard to having to switch plans, then switch back once they return.

My point, going back to the specific instance in Nazareth was due to timing (Koch left June 22 and was notified June 6 that he would not receive benefits, which was different from his prior deployment) and not having a policy.

The lack of a policy meant it was discussed on a case-by-case basis. I still think a policy is the best route to take and a good would demonstrate our thanks to these men and women who give so much for the benefit of everyone else.

For comparison's sake, Mary Jane Lahr has contacted a few area Police Departments and this is what she has forwarded to me:

• Bethlehem City - pays health insurance benefits
• Bethlehem Twp - pays health insurance plus pay differential if applicable (this was offered not asked so it may apply to others)
• Colonial Regional - no policy, but the chief said he'd encourage paying benefits
• Easton - pays health insurance benefits (from Joe Brown who is a fireman in Easton and previously posted on this site)
  

She also found out that Home Depot and PPL pay benefits and pay differential if applicable.

I did contact the NASD and was informed that "The district continues to pay the employee for 15 days after he or she reports for military service...Benefits continue until the end of the month in which the last day of pay falls."

I'd suggest the pay health insurance, pay differential, and a five day paid pre-deployment leave to be with family and friends and not have to worry about work would be a good start and much appreciated.

What do you think?