Troop Reimbursement Program Launched

The Defense Department has issued a directive allowing service members to be reimbursed “for privately purchased protective, safety or health equipment” that they bought between Sept. 10, 2001, and Aug. 1, 2004. During that period, because of shortages of interceptor armor, the services issued body armor only to those most in need of it. Some members bought their own. The reimbursement applies to members who were deployed for operations Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom. Reimbursement of up to $1,100 for any one piece of equipment will be based on the purchase price plus shipping. Receipts are not needed. Those requesting reimbursement must turn in their privately purchased gear. The list of reimbursable items includes the complete outer tactical vest or equivalent commercial ballistic vests and components, the Kevlar helmet, ballistic eye protection and hydration systems.