Any postal members, who are Vietnam veterans, should look into the possibility of their qualifying for the new Agent Orange presumptive diseases that the VA announced on 13 Oct 09.

OptimusPrime

Das some interesting shit.....

All qualifying MH's are protected from lay-off through Nov. 2011......Article 6

Excess is by JUNIORITY!~

Maybe?

no

yes

Hmm?

?

⋆

This is Prime , why are you all directing your angry at the choosen one? save your energy for the deceptamangers that you all have to go to war with on a regular basic. Your time is near D day will arrive and a great number of you will not survive these great changes that will very soon sweept over the Postal Service changeing it forever, your Onions power is now being stripped and they can know longer protect you from the deceptamangers that will soon rock your worlds, all the Onion dues you have payed has been waisted away by use less Nacional directors , you have know power to strike ,your only changeing of surival now is to beg for your jobs, I am Prime and I warned you all before and you did not lissen ,are work is now done on your planit , you must fight the Deceptaclowns on your on ,good luck to you all I AM PRIME ,AUTOBOTS TRANSFORM AND ROLL OUT ,THE PANTIES IS OVER!

anyone here who knows someone to ask fo advice on filing an MSPB appeal as a preference vet?

noticed the rulings haven't been especially favorable toward postal workers recently. would appreciate any info.

0251 MOS

If the PO cuts our wages, how would this affect Veteran's Preference? Would this be considered a RIF action?

That is the smoking gun we have been trying to find.

Wasn't there a MSPB decision barring the PO from giving a vet's job to a contractor if they, management, doesn't have another job for the vet?

If you think stationed in Germany in the '90 as the journey to hell then you don't even know what hell looked like.

You are fools , this is prime how could you dare speak of those who have made the journey to hell so that you all can sit around some postal facaility killing time, the postal service is full of civilian bums who have never worked a hard day in there lives you must be kidding me , you cant compare a Vet to some civilian maggot who has never worked a hard day in their life, you are funny you must be a deceptacon.

1. American Born Men who never served
2. American Born Women who never served
3. American Born Men and Women who never served and have a disability

Vets are low on the list, but Asian Naturalized citizens are the best workers and complain the least out of all the above. American born just seem to have this sense of entitlement that is driving the post office and the country into the ground.

Maybe it is because so many of the veterans are all the time whining about something. It has nothing to do with serving your country. You have a job, if you want to keep it, then start doing your share, instead of just saying, they can't touch me beacause I'm a vet. If the place goes under, being a vet isn't going to make one bit of difference. Vets should be teated fairly, but that doen't mean you never do anything.

This is Prime , you have to all realize that management does not like

preference Veterans like us all , we are the ones who they know its harder

to get rid of, so they come after us even harder , so that makes us a

bigger target, its a sad day when you are singled out for serving your

Country.

They all are deceptacons , this is yet another example of those who do not

respect those of us who have served are Country, and it is normally

management. The Union needs to make a stand for those of us who served are

Country,Management gives Veterans the most problems , more than any other

employee group and its time for APWU to do what its paid to do!

This is some information to all you Vets out here. If you want to do some bitch'in. Well then why not direct it someplace useful. Like down here in San Diego maintenance management has a bug up its' collective ass towards having stickers on postal issued tool boxes. You may not think to much of this.... but for many of the maintenance employees here it is a big deal. Since many of them are veterans from all the services. What has happened is that maintenance management decided that "all" stickers and decals had to be removed from the maintenance tool boxes. Well, when asked about Postal, Military, and about the US Flag that was on many of them. It was told to them that those also had to be removed.

So I now ask all of you out here... Since we work for USPS in the United States.... How many of you would find the Postal logo, Military symbols, or the US Flag offensive? Well, I can name a few individuals in the maintenance management below that find it offensive that work at MLS P&DC in San Diego. Since they are the individuals in management who are pushing on this.

1. Charles Sweet
2. Lee Miller
3. Gary Hill
4. David Decker
5. Jamie Tan

STFU

You are incorrect Deceptacon , the Union will not represent Disabled Veterans in MSPB , because the fact is only an Disabled Veteran has prefrence in this forum. That same Disabled Veteran pays Union dues as a member just because that Disabled Veterans invokes his right to an MSPB should not mean the Union will not represent him. If this is the case Deceptacon why would a Prefernce Eligible Disabled Veteran waste his money being part of the union when as an fact most Disabled Veterans always invoke there MSPB rights when they are facing Termination , Proposed Removal , Discpline , and ETC . The fact is Deceptacon Most Prefernce Eligible Veterans Invoke there MSPB rights 90% of the time and dont even use the Union.

Wougle the mspb deals with federal issues.If you have a situation that goes that far it is out of the APWUs hands.The MSPB will fight for you against the PO.APWU only deals with issues it agreed upon with the PO or issues that do not voilate your federal rights.After all the APWU is not a lawfirm.

Do you all know that if you are a hired as an Prefernce Elgible Disabled Veteran that your very own APWU will not represent you in an MSPB, that means folks that if you are an active paying memebers of the APWU and you invoke your Preference rights that you have earned for fighting for this Country the APWU will not represent you, if you dont believe it ask them. This is the most horrible act of injustice I have ever seen against a Disabled Veteran , if bad enough that you have to deal with management now this is just disgusting . Think about that before you become a member of APWU, you better off keeping them Union dues for a rainy day attorney stash , because in you are Disabled Vet and file an MSPB you are on your own , what do you all think about them apples?

Hey, I got a copy of the book written by the chief steward of Royal Oak at their PO shooting in 91. It is called "The Tainted Eagle" 'The Truth Behind the Tragedy'. by Charlie Withers.
Pretty bizarre. So far it starts out, that on the morning of the shootings, management was making a big deal about people keeping the noise down. On his way, with another steward to write up grievances on managers who had been making racial slurs, two individuals were sent home. One two loud, one for whistling "It's beginning to look like Christmas". Then the gunshots started going off. Management that had been investigated in Indianapolis by Congress for bad behavior had been sent to Royal Oak, and had created a bad environment. The union knew, but failed to pass this on. National even tried to get him to do nothing about the fact that management was highly aware of the threats by the employee/gunman, and their request for protection never came, yet they failed to warn employee's. National failed protocol in warning the Chief steward, that the employee who went over the edge, had lost his arbitration, so that there was no warning for employees. The harassment towards the angry employee had escalated after he had filed an EEO complaint. Skipping through the book, there are some pretty bizarre incidents of harassment, such as a mgr, knowing he was terminated, went so far to call Tom McCelvane's home, and when she got a busy signal, used an operator to interrupt his call, saying it was an emergency, and actually ordering him to report to work. Guess he didn't have call-waiting back then. Doctoring of his tape-recorder which an expert examined, destroying documents, all managers involved, and some that weren't even there all were given indefinite stress leave, while traumatized employees got nothing. Even when a shot steward's attorney sued the local union, NALC wrote letter they would not aid the local financially. Lot's of page of documents included in the book, to include Committee On Post Office and Civil Service U.S. House of Reprentatives (didn't know we had one) that managements harrassement "drove a man to kill" and lack of the USPS providing security. To me it's alot of postal terms that the public might not understand, but thought it would be a good read for employees, managers, and their "families" to see just how the USPS works and the early signs to possibly keep this type of horror from happening ever again. There seems to be a pattern, such as we all know about the remove promote the bad ones. A local Target had the book, but not sure all Targets. A link CWITHERS58@yahoo.com Bookstores Xlibris.com or by phone at 1-888-795-4274 ext. 7876, Barnesandnoble.com , Borders.com

           UNITED STATES EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION
                          ATLANTA REGIONAL OFFICE

If you are a disabled veteran who applied for a position with the United States Postal Service (USPS), your rights may be affected by a case pending before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

READ THIS NOTICE CAREFULLYWH AT IS THIS CASE ABOUT?

Clarence Hill, a disabled veteran who applied for a job with USPS in Statesboro, Georgia, claims that USPS violated the Rehabilitation Act when it asked him to bring copies of his medical records to an employment interview before being offered a job. In particular, he claims that until USPS offered him a job it was not allowed to ask for any medical records, other than the Veterans Administration certification that he was a disabled veteran entitled to preference.

On September 20, 2007, an administrative judge (AJ) for the EEOC decided that Hill’s complaint could proceed as a class action, which means that Hill’s claim will be decided together with claims of other disabled veterans who were asked to bring medical records to an interview before being offered employment. Hill has been designated as the “agent of the class” and will, together with his lawyers, represent the interests of other class members in this case. The case is captioned Clarence Hill v. John E. Potter, Postmaster General U.S. Postal Service, EEOC Case No. 110-A4-0031X; Agency Case No. 4H-310-0091-04.

The EEOC certified the class in Hill as being comprised of disabled veteran applicants nationwide, seeking disabled veterans’ preference, who, between March 19, 2004 and the present, were asked by USPS to bring medical documentation, in excess of that required to verify their entitlement to the preference, to an interview before an offer of employment was made.

You are receiving this Notice because USPS records indicate that you are a disabled veteran who applied for a position with USPS and may be eligible to participate in this case. This Notice is intended to tell you about the complaint and how your rights may be affected by this case.

There has been no determination whether USPS has done anything unlawful.

HOW DOES THIS CASE AFFECT YOU?

You are a potential member of the class if:
•
You are disabled within the meaning of the Rehabilitation Act;
•
You applied for a position with USPS and sought a disabled veterans’ preference;
•
Before being offering a job, USPS asked you to produce medical records, beyond that required to verify your entitlement to the veterans’ preference; and
•
The request for medical records was made by USPS on or after March 19, 2004.
2
If you are a potential member of the class, you do not need to do anything now to remain a part of this case.

If the AJ rules that USPS discriminated against members of the class, you will be notified and given the chance to seek any and all remedies provided by law. You do not need to do anything now to preserve your right to make a claim later.

If Hill and USPS wish to settle this case without a hearing, you will be notified and given the opportunity to review the terms of the settlement, and object or challenge the settlement.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS
For additional information about this case, you may contact the Class Counsels, listed below, or you may visit http://www.hill-usps.com and contact Class Counsels through that web page, or by calling toll free ________________.
Sam G. Nicholson, Esq.
Nicholson Revell LLP
4137 Columbia Road
Augusta, GA 30907

James W. Allen, Esq.
2916 Professional Parkway
Augusta, GA 30907

Joseph M. Sellers, Esq.
Daniel Tenny, Esq.
Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll PLLC
1100 New York Avenue, NW
Suite 500, West Tower
Washington, DC 20005

REPRISAL
Please note that the law prohibits discrimination, retaliation, threats, interference, intimidation and/or coercion against individuals who participate, testify, assist, and/or are involved in the presentation or processing of this class complaint.

D.A.V.

(1) are the health issues service connected?

(2) did you request FMLA for the service connected disabilities?

(3) did you request FMLA for any of you non service connected disabilities?

  I am a Disabled Veteran I have missed work due to multiple health problems and am being written up.I have doctors notes but it doesn't seem to matter what should I do?

veterans preference is a level of protection, not an absolute. There a differnet levels, 5 point, 10 point and categories within the 10 point.

In the past the Postal Service has stated that the situation is not a Reduction In Force and so has claimed that it does not have to honor Vets Preference. Usually the USPS is sued and loses and has to re-instate (with back pay)the employee(s) covered by the lawsuit. This is not good as you are put out on the streets waiting for a paycheck while the lawsuit winds its way through the process.

As a practical matter, if you are a veteran and the postal service seems to be intending to let you go, go talk to a Veterans Service Representative about your situation. The Veterans Administration has taken on the USPS in the past over violations of Veterans Preference.

Different judges and arbitrators have also vented about how the USPS has tried to evade the application of Vets Preference by mis-stating the nature of the personnel action in order to circumvent the federal law.

if you are a veterans preference can they make you leave in rif work or are you the last one to leave noveterans leave first

So if I read this correctly, not all veterans are safe from a RIF or am I mis-reading it? thanks!

If you bought your time back you will have 9 yrs If you didn't then you will only have 5 yrs so buy it back now! if you havent. It only cost 3% of you total earned salary in the military, I spent just shy of 10 and mine was only a little of $3000 so do it now

So what happens if a Vet has 4 years service time and only 5 years with the post office? Does it count as 9 years or are we under 6 years and can be RIF?

Found this on Veterans' Preference in RIF situtations
-------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------

5 U.S.C. 1302

Veterans' Preference in Reduction in Force

Veterans have advantages over nonveterans in a reduction in force (RIF). Also, special provisions apply in determining whether retired military members receive preference in RIF and whether their military service is counted. This chapter deals with RIF in the competitive service; some, but not all, of the provisions apply in the excepted service.



------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------

Eligibility for Veterans' Preference in RIF

Determinations of Veterans' preference eligibility are made in accordance with the information under Preference in Appointments in Chapter 2, except that a retired member of a uniformed service must meet an additional condition to be considered a preference eligible for RIF purposes. This condition differs depending on the rank at which the individual retired from the uniformed service. Uniformed service as defined in 5 United States Code (U.S.C.) 2101 means the Armed Forces, the commissioned corps of the Public Health Service, and the commissioned corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Retirees below the rank of major (or equivalent) get preference if:

Retirement from the uniformed service is based on disability that either resulted from injury or disease received in the line of duty as a direct result of armed conflict, or was caused by an instrumentality of war and was incurred in the line of duty during a period of war as defined in section 101(11) of title 38, U. S. C. "Period of war" includes World War II, the Korean conflict, Vietnam era, the Persian Gulf War, or the period beginning on the date of any future declaration of war by the Congress and ending on the date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or concurrent resolution of the Congress; or
The employee's retired pay from a uniformed service is not based on 20 or more years of full-time active service, regardless of when performed but not including periods of active duty for training; or
The employee has been continuously employed in a position covered by the 5 U.S.C. chapter 35 since November 30, 1964, without a break in service of more than 30 days.
Retirees at or above the rank of major (or equivalent) get preference if they are disabled veterans as defined in 5 U.S.C. 2108(2) (includes XP, CP, and CPS) and also meet one of the criteria above for a person retired below the rank of major.

A preference eligible who at age 60 becomes eligible as a reservist for retired pay under 10 U.S.C. chapter 1223 (previously chapter 67) and who retires at or above the rank of major (or equivalent) is considered a preference eligible for RIF purposes at age 60 only if he or she is a disabled veteran as defined in 5 U.S.C. 2108(2) (includes categories XP, CP, and CPS). Receipt of retired pay under chapter 1223 meets the requirement that retired pay not be based on 20 or more years of full-time active service. Eligibility for retired reservist pay occurs at age 60; up to that time a reservist is not considered a retired member of a uniformed service and, if otherwise eligible, is a preference eligible for reduction in force purposes.



------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------

5 U.S.C. 3501, 3502; 5 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 351.501

RIF Retention Standing

Employees are ranked on retention registers for competitive levels (groups of similar jobs) based on four factors: tenure, Veterans' preference, length of service, and performance.

First they are placed in Tenure Group I, II, or III, depending on their type of appointment. Within each group, they are placed in a subgroup based on their veteran status:

Subgroup AD includes each preference eligible who has a compensable service-connected disability of 30 percent or more.
Subgroup A includes all other preference eligibles not in Subgroup AD, including employees with derived preference (see Chapter 2).
Subgroup B includes all employees not eligible for Veterans' preference.
Within each subgroup, employees are ranked in descending order by the length of their creditable Federal civilian and military service, augmented by additional service according to the level of their performance ratings.

When a position in a competitive level is abolished, the employee affected (released from the competitive level) is the one who stands the lowest on the retention register. Because veterans are listed ahead of nonveterans within each tenure group, they are the last to be affected by a RIF action.

Employees are not subject to a reduction in force while they are serving in the uniformed services. After return from active duty, they are protected from RIF action. If they served for more than 180 days, they may not be separated by RIF for 1 year after their return. If they served for more than 30 but less than 181 days, they may not be separated by RIF for 6 months.



------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------

5 U.S.C. 3502; 5 CFR 351.404(a), 351.606(a), and Subpart E

Assignment Rights (Bump and Retreat)

When an employee in Tenure Group I or II with a minimally successful performance rating is released from a competitive level within the competitive area where the RIF takes place, he or she is entitled under certain circumstances to displace another employee with lower retention standing. The superior standing of preference eligibles gives then an advantage in being retained over other employees. These displacement actions apply to the competitive service although an agency may, at its discretion, adopt similar provisions for its excepted employees.

Bumping

An employee may bump in the same competitive area to a position no more than three grades (or grade intervals) lower than the position from which the employee is released that is held by an employee in a lower group or subgroup.

Retreating

An employee may retreat in the same competitive area to a position held by another employee with lower retention standing in the same tenure group and subgroup that is essentially identical to one previously held by the retreating employee and is no more than three grades (or grade intervals) lower than the position from which the employee is released.

A preference eligible with a compensable service-connected disability of 30 percent or more may retreat to a position up to five grades (or grade intervals) lower.

An employee with an unacceptable performance rating has no right to bump or retreat.

An employee with a performance rating of minimally successful may retreat only to positions held by an employee with the same or lower rating.



------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------

Qualifications

In reviewing the qualifications of a preference eligible to determine assignment rights in a RIF, the agency must waive requirements as described under Physical Qualifications in Chapter 2. If the veteran involved has a 30 percent or more compensable disability, special procedures apply as described under Disqualification of 30 Percent or more Disabled Veterans in Chapter 2. OPM must approve the sufficiency of the agency's reasons to medically disqualify a 30 percent or more compensably disabled veteran for assignment to another position in a RIF.



------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------

5 U.S.C. 3502, 3504; 5 CFR Part 351, Subpart G, and Part 339

Appeal of RIF Actions

An employee who has been furloughed, separated, or demoted by RIF action has the right to appeal the action to the Merit Systems Protection Board except when a negotiated procedure must be used. Assignment to a position at the employee's same grade or representative rate is not appealable. Appeals must be filed during the period beginning on the day after the effective date of the RIF action and ending 30 days after the effective date. Time limits for filing a grievance under a negotiated procedure are contained in the negotiated agreement.



------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------

How about you two exchange phone numbers and have a bitch fest. Let's keep this site dedicated to Veterans issues.

Your ball must be sweating profusely or else you wouldn't be wasting your time in this pissing contest,right? Ain't it worth your ball's sweat?

bwaaahaaahaaa!

My button not pushed, just tired of a no load puss nut spreding his crap on all the blogs.

You must really need a real life outside of a being postal blue ass hole. Go back to your knee pads and maybe, if your good enough you can be a 204B by the end of the year.

To me its just full helping you make an ass out of youself and your knowing that I helped.

I've go plenty of time, but time would be better spent in you finding some place to leave you shit and spread you worthless shit, thus allowing us to bet back to business that effects our jobs and our lively hood.

Or do you care?

Are you for real? With credential like that and you let your button easily pushed?

bwaaahaaahaaa!

Mr Yeast Infection, thank you. You have made my point for me, as I knew you would.

The point you made is exactly the one that you were set up for and fell for it. Sorry, but its the only way this Veteran, knows how to shut the likes of a no life, no load puss nutt like you, who wants to be a "boil" on everyones butt, by showing them just how he's consumed in is own abilities and his own importantance, to shut the f**k up.

In other words, Hey Dummy, you are raining on your own parade and too damn stupid to know it. No One Even Cares about you.

If you know what my blog address is, then, you know where I come from and you crap doesn't matter.

I just like help making someone, like you, a complete ass out themselves and then letting them know that I was successful in doing so. (NCO Academy 101 - 1965)

173d
68-70

And to the rest of you redlegs, grunts, Docs, gunners, huey drivers(Ds), can't forget the early B drives either, and even the REMFs ouy there, WELCOME HOME.

I feel sorry for any veteran who comes here looking for information. They won't find much.

Looks like your ball ain't sweating today,to come here and engage in the pissing contest?

Thank you Mister Yeast Infection, I knew that you would rise to the occasion, and reveal you true IQ and your exact level of wisdom.

I may be an Mother F**ker as you called me, guess I was born that way, but you Mister Yeast Infection, are truly a self made Mother F**ker.

.

Here's something for your sweaty ball,(You read it right,ain't got a pair)

If you were worth more the sweat of my balls, it would be worth the effort, but you're not.

Make me...

Steve Yeast -

I hope you suffer from a real oral yeast infection, and busted knee caps for favoring management.

Take your shit, well your lies and get the hell off this blog.

You are simply lying about your powers on the site, please just go back to packing management's fudge.

Term of service (TOS):

Your messages will be deleted and your IP will be blocked if you violate one or more of the followings:

1/Your messages must be postal related,I don't care if it was your co-workers or your neighbors go postal.
2/You must be a Democrat and bashing GOP is an alternative for # 1.
3/You must be pro union and caling for bail-out is also OK for # 1.
4/You must never disagreed nor challenged the veracity of Ms. Know-it-all aka LOL aka Beanny(the crying)Baby's messages.Because if she came crying to me one more time,I will shut this #@#$&*% board down just like I did to other.
5/If your moniker has anything to do with Muslim,it's an automatic deletion regardless of other rules.Call me bigotry all you wanted,I own this site,I make rule.The Jap is next.

Your host,

Steve (the NAZI) Yeast.

Veteran Preference information link
from OPM


http://www.opm.gov/veterans/html/vetguide.asp

Well here in Cleveland I know of at least 7 employees in Management who have recieved letters stating the date of termination of employment. That being said, the pecking order for vet pref is as follows.5%- A.K.A "5 pointer". Then 10 point noncompesable. 10 point- 30% or less, then 30% or more. 10 point Purple Heart. and Congressional Medal Of Honor recipients. Are at the top.30 % or more vets will the ones turning ou the lights so to speak. Meaning they will be the last to go. These vets have super senority, for available jobs providing they posses the skill set.

I don't believe that anyone is loosing their jobs anytime in the near future if at all.

There are far too many things that have to be accomplished before a RIF or layoffs.

And if not, those who are laid off, would be entitled up to nearly $755,000.00 in layoff or RIF money. It depends on you length and level of service.

Thats right, there is and always has been provisons in place that effects federal employees just like it does civil service employees.

Since postal management has no management skills or people skills, they rule under the rule of "fear".

And you Vets should know that rule, the same one when you were in basic training.

My NCO Academy in '67 was far worse that basic, but there was no fear factor involved.

When you haven't got the skills, you can only manage with the policy of fear.

Before layoffs or RIFs, the courts will get involved and that could take years.

My Opinion.

Veterans Preference does not stop after the hiring process. If you get excessed involuntarily from your position, you have to be placed in the same level position. You can be placed into a lower level job, but you will have to accept this change. You will be paid the same, just working in a different position. For example: Vet Pref clerk gets excessed from his job. The PO could offer him a mail handler level 4 position. The Vet can waive his preference and become a mail handler. While doing this lower level work, he will still get paid his level 6 clerk pay. He still keeps his vet pref.

For Vet Pref, I believe it is only used for entrance into the post office. Once your an employee, it isn't really used anymore. I could be wrong about this, and I welcome any other opinions about it. For the 6 year thing, it depends on what union your in as to what protections you have.

Can anyone tell me how vet pref works if you have been with the PO for less than 6 years? How about disabled vets? Are those with less than 6 years subject to a RIF if one were to happen? Any help would be appreciated.

veteran is not used for promotion. but if you feel your denied a promotion or beign hired for no-veterans you do have apeal rights under USERRA and VOEA. But you must meet timelimit set by VOEA and USERRA do not have a timelimit. You must link the denial of promotion, etc to your status as a veteran.

Edited by author 11-13-2008 05:35 PM
/m461 Here is a link that will describe veterans preference in federal hiring. Did not see anything about the 60% disability for automatic hiring. I am sure there are others which may describe it in more detail.

http://federaljobs.net/veterans.htm#VETERANS%20PREFERENCE_1

Like I said, the ELM and current hiring practices require the Veteran preference in hiring. There are basicly 3 levels of Veterans Preference, 5 point, 10 point and disability more than 60%.

I have heard that when it comes to the hiring, lets say, all are 5 point, the one with the higher disability rating is the one that is hired. Just like the 10 point is hired over the 5 point. 60% or higher are automaticly hired.

Its as if there are actually two registers, one for non Vets and one for Vets only. I have been told, that Affirmative Action Hiring puts females disable veterans at the top of the list and a minority disabled veteran female at the top of that list.

I'm not sure on one point, and that is people who fall under ADA also have a hiring preference, and ADA folks maybe ahead of Veteran hiring. I have never been able to find anyone who will answer a question about ADA hiring over Veterans Preference.

Just my opinion

thank you for answering, Union Member. maybe I didn't make it clear, though, the position is not being filled with a person already employeed. this is a PMR position being filled by applicants off the street so to speak (not from a postal roster). one of the applicants is a vet. the others are not. the postmaster doing the hiring says they have to choose the vet over the others. we have gotten different answers as outlined below.

There is not yes or no to the veteran preference issue. Arbitrators have been split on this issue for years and will continue to do so until it is decided in the court.

The postal service says that veteran preference is for employment, at the time of hiring. This is stated in the ELM and in the employment practices that have withstood regional arbitrations, MSPBs, EEOs and NLRB rulings.

Unions, all of them, says that veteran preference continues to follow the veteran thought out their employment when dealing with a mail handler in mail handler craft assignment as does all other unions for their crafts. There are as many arbitrations sustained on this as denied.

In the situtation you are are refering to, my answer to question would be no, since, a craft employee is applying for, the key words, a "management postion", and that craft employee has already been hired and excerised their veterans preference for the craft they were hired for or transfered into. Not for a management assignment outside of a craft.

As a long time steward, I would not, repeat, not file a grievance, since there is no harm or violation of the mail handlers National Agreement.

I know that there are some that will disagree with me on this; however, I urge them to show me the facts rather than just simply disagree with me.

I always have time to learn.

Just my opinion.

does veteran's preference factor in if someone is applying for postmaster relief?

I have heard both yes and no.

the no .... says there is no test, therefore no test SCORE to add preference points to.

the yes .... says a veteran is a veteran and therefore gets preference

who is right?

(yes... there were other people who applied for the job.

Release No. 10-16-08
Oct. 31, 2008
New law allows veterans' salutes during anthem
WASHINGTON (AFRNS) -- Veterans and active-duty military not in uniform can now render the military-style hand salute during the playing of the national anthem, thanks to changes in federal law that took effect this month.
"The military salute is a unique gesture of respect that marks those who have served in our nation's armed forces," said Dr. James B. Peake, secretary of Veterans Affairs. "This provision allows the application of that honor in all events involving our nation's flag."
The new provision improves upon a little known change in federal law last year that authorized veterans to render the military-style hand salute during the raising, lowering or passing of the flag, but it did not address salutes during the national anthem. Last year's provision also applied to service members while not in uniform.
Traditionally, members of the nation's veterans service organizations have rendered the hand-salute during the national anthem and at events involving the national flag while wearing their organization's official head-gear.
The most recent change, authorizing hand-salutes during the national anthem by veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel, was sponsored by Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, an Army veteran. It was included in the Defense Authorization Act of 2009, which President Bush signed Oct. 14.
The earlier provision authorizing hand-salutes for veterans and out-of-uniform service members during the raising, lowering or passing of the flag, was contained in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008, which took effect Jan. 28, 2008. (Courtesy of VA News)

just though i would let you folks know that the postal service has just finally made a determination on the staffing requirements on the FSS...

it will be assigned to the mail handler craft except for one and only one clerk positon...

way to go Hegarty, keeping mail handler jobs, your union at work for you, including you bottom feeding scum sucking scabs.....................

Epicon 66

"Reverse Discrimination"

If it applies go for it, postal management will go wild, it works as well under the proper situations.

If you can get a hiring history for the period of time you have been turned down and match faces with names and if male or female.

I have only used it four times in nearly 30 years and three were settled and the fourth is pending.

Its hard for management to defend because of federal hiring practices, especially if you are a Veteran on top of it.

To date managements on defense has been that the veteran preference only applies to the orginal hiring, but that is easily torn apart especailly when the Union formally request that policy in writting.

I might add that if management fails to provide the information you need, the Union has the right to formally request it for the purpose of the EEO.

Time to BT for 8 hours, then request Steward time, one of our recent ASP grads has screwed the overtime up again by using PTFs and Casuals in lieu of the ODL, looks like free money for a few mail handlers on the ODL. This fool is a real piece of work, and thinks our contract is identical to the clerks word for word.

I have 18 Step Ones filed against her for Officials Discussion, not the content, but the purpose of the Discussion in the first place. When I requested documentation from her to support her Discussions, she made me a copy of Section 650 of the ELM and even highlighted the paragraph that gave her that authority. You need to check out the heading of Section 650 and who it applies to. You'll crack up on the one.

That sounds great

Epicon 66

Have a similar case here in my office.

The individual filed an EEO against the Maintenance Manager and at the REDRESS, the Maintenance Manager, Plt Manager and the HR guy from District went as far as to say that the individual was not on the register and had never been on the register. At that point, acting on behalf of the individual and not as a Union Steward, recommended that the REDRESS end and the next step started. We had the individuals letter showing his test scores and his Veteran Preference of 10 points, more than 30% disabled, with the dates emcompassing the current register. Not to mention proof of where the Maintenance Mgr and the Plt Manager had received and sign for copies of the letter. I never give anything to management unless they sign a receipt for it.

Two additional things then took place, grievances were file, one on behalf of the individual, and another class action for discrimination against Veterans and a second EEO popped up filed against the District HR member who was at the REDRESS and the District Manager of HR for discrimination against Veteran and reverse discrimination because of another individual that was hired after the first EEO was filed.

Management has asked the Union to hold the grievance at Step Two and at the REDRESS meeting of the second EEO, management asked the moderator and the individual to reschedule the REDRESS to allow management the time of consider their options.

Everyone at the meeting, including the Chief Steward for the Union, me included as the individual's representative, and the individual signed off for 30 additional day. After the meeting the moderator told us that the reverse discrimination charge has them chasing their tails especially since it deals with a Veteran who is disable more than 30%.

Forgot to mention that management has acknowledged that there are two residual vacancies that have existed for more than 12 months.

I have no doubts that he will get the job, and no doubts management will screw with him everytime they can once he does.

Will post what happens as soon something is determined, and if it goes over 30 days, will continue the Step Two to Step Three, amending it to include failure by management to meet at Step Two.
  
Just simply love helping them (management) make an ass out of themselves, its almost a full-time job anymore.

i put in my request to transfer to custodial years ago i initially scored a 100% on the custodial entrance exam thats when he denied the pref status to me. since then i've taken all the maintenance exams went to the review board where "suprise" the same HR manager told me he was very impressed with my extensive certification, then gave me an "ineligible" rating on all the exams and still refuses to transfer me to custodial even tho numerous other non vets both junior and senior have been allowed to switch.

egark we all know vet pref is federal law but here in buffalo vet pref was denied to over 1000 vets after the law changed back in 1997. (myself included) the HR manager then stated that he made a mistake in denying the status but by postal reg. he didnt have to correct his mistake errr the worthless piece of crap committed a crime that he should be in prison for but 10 years later he still is the HR manager still screwing vets. oh i did fight and got my status but im still being discriminated against for being a war vet as they refuse to allow me access to the maintenance craft because my 12 years of military service was in electronics and they dont want me to become a tech.

disablevet- you are right the APWU president here in Buffalo (frankyboy)has told his stewards that he is "opposed to vet pref" as i guess it takes away jobs from nepotistic family members in management or something. we vets should all die in combat protecting their jobs and not return looking for jobs that their family members could have because the chickenshits werent men enough to fight for our freedom or way of life.

Disablevet /m448 -- veteran's preference is not in the contract, it is federal law.

If the union had there way, veteran's preference would be out of the contract.

No help what so ever from the Union. President Franky boy is a management puppet

Outstanding!

Union member- i'm currently in a EEO dispute that is dealing with discrimination and has just been reviewed by an inpartial investigator and a copy of the ROI was just sent to my attorney for review.

RE/Epicon 66 Veterans - PTSD cannot be use legally to refuse a request for becoming a 204B or any job bidding or assignement.

Outside of a disparate treatment grievance the employee should jump in to an EEO for disparate treatment and especially discrimination against a veteran.

The EEO should be filed against the stupidvisor and his supervisor. The employee being hired by the postal service in the first place will counter the PTSD attitude of the stupidvisor, since he was cleared by medical authority not be of a harmful nature to himself or other employees or postal equipment and able to work for the postal service.

That is a condition of employment thus the disparate treatment grievance and EEO for discrimination against a veteran.

Besides, in what state has this stupidvisor been Board Certified to Practice as a health care provider and render a decision on the employees physical or mental health.

Its a win-win grievance and a double win-win EEO. Once either or both is won, it creates a super paper trail in case the stupidvisor wants to be stupid again.

Normally, I would stay out of someone's business in becoming a 204B, but he is a Veteran as many of us are and it is his choice to make right or wrong.

The Short awnser is yes you have some protection. However, as 20% gives you some protection from displacement from non- disabled vets... It does not give you any from the class of vets who are classified as 30% OR MORE vets. the magic number for maximum protection from RIFS is 30%

were you hired with veterans preference?

Edited by author 10-01-2008 11:45 PM
I'M A MAIL HANDLER WITH A 20% DISABILITY. I'VE ONLY BEEN WITH THE POSTAL SERVICE FOR 2 YEARS, SO I'M NOT PROTECTED YET. IS THERE ANY PROTECTION FROM A LAYOFF FOR VETERANS. IF SO WHERE CAN I FIND THAT INFORMATION

You are so very right.

The damn shame of it is, that a lot of the stupidvisors who give Veterans the most grief are Veterans themselves.

How many other Veterans feel that the PO Management has or is treating Vets unfairly?

The is no problem using you private health care for a VA rated disability.

In fact most times it is better care on an as need basis. Besides, private health care, when use to file for an increase in disability rating carrys a lot weight, all the VA does is review and concur.

Go to "http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/bookc.html" and you can find the disability rating codes. Each code is broken down to a % of disability rating.

All the private health care doctor needs to do is to write a letter telling of your condition, and use the exact wording from the VA rating codes for the % that effects you.


In applying for an increase you need to have the "exact wording for that %". Private health care can do this better than the VA does.

I carried 30% for 27 yrs, after 8 surgeries in that 27 years I applied for an increase. Was turned down for 4 years because of this or that. A very knowledgeable person put me on the the VA rating codes.

I found my rating, showed my doctor, he wrote a new letter adding the exact wording, to a letter he had written once a year for 4 years and bammmm, I was called into a formal review board, and awarded 60%. Best part is, that 10 months after I received the 60% I was called back for a physical, and 6 weeks later, the VA awarded me 100% even though I never ask for it. I was happy with the 60%. I'm sure as hell not going to give the 100% back.

Hope this helps everyone.

DV /m435 I have never been to a VA doctor or hospital other than my initial interview when I received my VA hospital card. If you have private insurance, I see no reason why you cannot see your personal physician for care of a VA rated problem. I would suggest you go to this link to get more information. These people are very smart on dealing with VA questions. Good Luck.

http://vets.yuku.com/bvetbenefits

Retired, my private physician is offering me different options to help relieve the pain. The VA just wants to medicate me. I just don't want the VA saying you cant go this route.

DisabledVet /m432 Any reason that you are not able to see your private physician? I am a DV and have used my private physician for the past 26+ years.

  You are right, at the Cincinnati M.P.O. our transportation manager hates Veterans.He told a guy that just got back from a tour in Iraq he could not be a 204b because he had post tramatic stress.But yet he will give a guy a special job assignment that got a D.U.I.without question.

I have a 30% rating and I was wondering if I can see my private physician for care?

430, if you wife needs help in her care, maybe the VA will cover the expense of a care taker.

 I am a D.A.V. and was injured on the job I had shoulder surgery and management,used all my fmla for an on the job injury.Now my wife is home bound due to her Military disabilities and i can't be there to help because of this.

former military 73cp 6yr7m city carrir 18 yrs resigned 2004 work in ministry applied reinstatement 2007 po brough back as a rural carrier no carrier ststus what can i do

this started back in 1997 when the gulf war was designated as vet pref. here at buffalo- Vet Pref was denied to over 1000 gulf war vets (myself included) it took me awhile to get my Pref status but its been over 10 years and they still refuse to allow me to switch over to Custodian/Maintence even thou i've taken all the exams and have 13 years of Electronics.

the PO is against hiring Veterans due to the fact that as they downsize they dont want to have to deal with such annoyances as Vet Pref. staus or battle VA.

When it came to me getting hired, I was further along than you are now in the hiring process. I had received information regarding an open ET position. After some intial paperwork, I was given a "bona fide job offer". During the "getting a physical phase" is when they were trying to not hire me and attempted to pass me over. I had done my homework and outwitted them.
 I found another link you will find quite informative if you haven't already read it.

http://www.chicagopostalworker.com/Subject...Emp%20Placement.pdf

 It is the EL-312 Employment and Placement Manual. You said you already read through the ELM manual. As you found, it has a chapter that discusses hiring practices. This manual, EL-312 is specifically just for that purpose. Unfortunately, it also deals with the practices that need to be met during the hiring phase. Your in different waters since you haven't been contacted about any positions. The best path you may need to take could very well be what you had stated earlier. I also stumbled on to this link

http://www.opm.gov/disability/PeopleWithDisabilities.asp

It deals with EEO stuff about hiring discrimination. It seems to deal mainly with OPM type jobs and doesn't say much, but it might be helpful.

and By the way RapidET in one of your posts u stated "and had pointed out some facts regarding their "illegal" hiring practices in the same letter, the matter was dropped and I was hired within 2 weeks." i was wondering who exactly did you send this letter to? i would much rather simply wrie a letter to the right person and get a job than go threw the hassle of getting other agencies involved. and quite frankly i dont want to wait another two years to figure it out and get a job. i would love to cut and paste a letter with the regulations they didnt follow and get a job in two weeks. u luck guy. =)

Edited by author 08-04-2008 07:47 PM
thanks rapidET for your reply. i have read the postal manuals and am pretty positive i have a case. I was kinda hopeing i didnt have to go about it this way to get a job. Generally makeing people do things that are potentially going to be your boss, is probably not a good idea. my time is running out so this will be my last ditch effort to find employment with the post office. i just think it sucks that ive waited two and a half years patiently, and now i have to use tactics like the oig and congressional investigations to get things rolling. from what ive learned the post office tries like hell not to hire vets and disabled vets and then every ten years or so someone like me gets pissed and files like im about to and then a bunch of vets get hired miraculously. I understand it from both side. they dont want to let thier current employees go, so they slide the clerks into the custodial jobs. but when u hire an 18 year old kid(someone that hasnt taken the exam therefore cant be on the hiring registry for that job) off the street before a vet(someone that has taken the exam and been on the waiting list) thats just too much.

if u work as a casual for more than 90 days u have the right to apply to full time positions just like any other full time postal worker. the reason i want this is because all the clerks jobs are being down sized and so instead of letting them go they are letting the clerks take the veterans "protected" custodians jobs. unfortunetly the union is mostly clerks so there is no way to win that battle. so really i just need to get my foot in the door. im a good mechanic. was an aircraft mechanic for the navy for 6 years. id like to move up in the maintenance craft.

/m416 Do you really want to be a casual? That's not a career employee, no benefits, no retirement.

PostalWannabe, no one has answered your question yet, so I'll try to. From what I can gather from your post, you are not a postal employee yet and you are trying to get hired as a Vet Pref of 30% or more disability. Go to this link http://www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/manuals/elm/h...002.html#vnameref_1

Be careful to read all of section 3. From what I understand, you have a legitimate case of them not using the proper procedures. Based on what you have written, what your doing may be exactly what needs to be done. Each case of the USPS not doing their jobs correctly is handled differently. So what works on one problem, may not work on another. I hope this helps.

Check out the ELM section 512 for annual leave information.

If your drawing a retirement check based on your military time, then it has no effect on your postal time. What I mean to say is, if you had say 5 years in the military, you could go through some steps to make that count toward your postal retirement. The amount of annual leave you get would also be affected. You would qualify for more leave sooner.
 After you retire from the military, essentially, your starting over. You hire into the postal system and start working on your next retirement. Your previous military years have little effect since your already drawing a retirement check for you service.
 When I say little effect, you can "put in" for some specific events during your military service that can be applied toward getting more annual leave sooner.

I'm a retired veteran with 20 years. I was wonder does my 20 years count for years in the postal service towards retirement? I'm not getting that on my PS Form 8028. Could someone put me in the right direction? Thanks.

Hi everyone,
I am a 40% DAV (so ten point vet). i scored a 96+ on the custodian entry test. i have been on the hiring registery for two and a half years. my extention for being on the registry is about to run out. today a friend of mine tells me they hired a new casual custodian to the post office that is an 18 year old kid never serverd the military and is not disabled. so i filed a freedom of information act request to see their records on who they have hired in the last 2 1/2 years as well as a privacy act request for my personal records. i plan to file an eeo and move on from there. i maybe a 40% disabled vet but in reality im a 27 year old that has been working custruction full time and going to college full time for the last 2 years. i really want to finish my federal retirement. does anyone know what steps i should take to get these people to follow the federal laws about hiring vets. as i read the regs in the 312 they have to send me a letter if i get passed over. i dont know how an 18 year old could score over 106 without haveing a ten point preference. anyway im pissed and tired of waiting to continue my career. Any advice would be helpful. anyone who has been threw this and won would be extremely helpfull. thanks in advance!

actually, you can transfer a score, but the register for the office you want to work for is completly empty. i suggest getting hired where you can and then e-reassign until you get where you want to be

Bozo, u are a Bozo...No u cannot transfer scores to different cities/districts, your test score is only good for the district u tested in...also, BMC is Bulk Mail Center...imagine if you will a huge warehouse full of mail and machines....and regarding test 473 the Post Office isnt hiring Career Carriers for a few years if even they decide to hire at all in the future, havent u heard about T.E.s, Early Outs and Excessing?
Dude get on the ball...also, at the post office, u dont wanna work as a Carrier....TRUST ME...any job is ok but Carrier...Phewwwww, SOMEBODY BETTER TELL HIM !!!!!

I have a question that I cant seem to find an answer for from the local postmaster. I have taken the po exam 473 in 4 different cities, all of which are 100 miles from were I actually live, once I get my all my scores, can I transfer the highest test score I get to were I reside at, to that post office and be on their register. And also I took a test that was only going to be establishing a register for a bulk mail center, and I have no idea what that is, or what are the working conditions there, can someone please help me out, thanks in advance for your knowledge.

Coast Guard (Navy Wannabe), man we tell u on every forum u post on and as u can see u are not getting any positive feedback....DONOT get your hopes up high and donot please donot bank on making a career out of being a Mail-man..oh im sorry, Letter Carrier...the post office really does suck...imagine Bootcamp, total control by a bunch of idiots in management (wannabe drill sgts) for your 30 year career...if the Post Office doesnt contract your job out and if your body doesnt fall apart...dude, if u want a postal career pursue another Craft (job)...anything besides carrying mail...im a Carrier transferring over to Maintenence..im telling u like so many others from experience and our blood, sweat, and tears...THIS JOB AINT WHAT PEOPLE THINK IT IS....IT BLOWS !!!!!

how long so you have to stay in one area of the country, before transferring to another post office?

always retake the test because the higher score will be your new score.

hello,

I was wondering what are my chances if I scored 80 on a recent postal exam in Portland, Oregon of actually being hired, do I need to re-take the test again? Scheduled to take the test in seattle soon, please let me know thanks

I resigned from federal employment in December 2004 because management was too flimsy and counter-productive. I want to return since learning my formr stupidvisor has been terminated. I do not want to go back to the same station; is it possible to be reinstated at another station for my skills and experience?

Have you called your local bar assoc.? usually there are very few lawyers who deal in postal EEo. Check him out with your local union office first before you hire him. Hope this helps


< replied-to message removed by QT >

I am new to this site. I filed an EEO and need to find a good lawyer to handle my case. Any suggestions? I am in Mississippi and need a lawyer asap. Thanks

katie?

Edited by author 04-29-2008 11:17 AM
you wouldn't be the first one to drive it everyday. btw, the woman who resurrected the VetRepComm from dormant came from your facility

i wish i could transfer there drb

Edited by author 04-29-2008 02:32 AM
wages are the same nationwide. but ot varies from facility to facility. I've heard anecdotal evidence of carriers and mhs both working a lot or none, depending on where. would you rather work outside, in the elements, basically on your own, or inside, in an almost factory-type environment? do you want to work days (carriers), or 2nd or 3rd shift (mhs)? want sundays off? (carriers don't work sundays except for few newbies doing collections and delivering express mail)

as far as vet treatment goes, I don't know how prevalent epicon's description is; you'd have to hear from others, esp where you're looking to work. I know vet's aren't treated as such where I am. we even have a vets rep committee to help vets with vet-specific problems. and we have an honor guard and rifle squad for ceremonies on Memorial Day and Veterans' Day, which mgmt supports

good luck

Edited by author 04-28-2008 04:06 PM
thanks to all vets for responding to my questions. can anyone out there give me any insight for the Portland, Oregon mail processing plant, and which job is best to work for overtime? I am wondering if I should take a city carrier position or a mail handler job, and what are the hourly wages, do they differ btwn cities? Do vets really get treated like dirt, in every post office or just looked down upon, from reading the many posts here, I am not sure if I really want to work in this hostile enviroment. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Nepovisors run the place- put in charge by their family members in upper management. Vets are blackballed and treated like unwanted diseases (thanks for protecting your country) and told "your lucky to have a F-cking job" because they had some 1 else in mind most likely another family member that they quickly would elevate to nepovisor or stupidvisor. If you think you can advance in their nepotistic world keep dreaming, they're already plotting how to eliminate you from service as you would earn to much of their money

and the vets that "run" the place are the workers. bosses are all twenty-somethings who, after seeing what the work was like, decided that standing around watching was much better

/m391 I'll assume you served during the first Gulf War 1990-1992.All people who served during that time period are 5 point vets.They change the requirements for each war or conflict.You can only get 10 points if you are getting a disability.

I was curious about the Coast Guard eligibiliy for Vet Pref and I found the info in the link on my previous posting. After you go to that link, look at paragraph 771.1, which is on page 256 of 305 pages.

Here is a link to help you determine your Vet Pref status regarding points.

http://www.chicagopostalworker.com/Subject...Emp%20Placement.pdf

 Pay particular attention to Section 48. It sounds like you would be a 5 pointer based on what you wrote.

 As a 5 point Vet Pref, you would take the exam. You must score at least 70 points to pass. Whatever score at or above 70 you get, they then add 5 points to the total. Your name is placed on the register with everyone else according to your score (with the 5 points added).

hello,
first of all thanks to all vets that provide other vets with info that they need to know for joining the post office, I just recently took the test in Portland, Oregon, my question is am I a 5 or 10 point vet? I put in my 20 and retired, but I have no disability, but I get a retirement check from the govt, but is not a VA penision check, so I guess I get only 5 points correct? My next question is there a separate list just for us vets or a combined list with all the other people that took the test, and I did claim my vets pref, from what I read here, I always thought that the vets ran the post office because so many joined and made it into upper management? Any comments or suggestion would be very much appreciated, how soon would I get called?

They do not have access to your Medical Records from the VA. furthermore the VA will not release any information about you other than your Status ie. discharge and Rating. If they do get your records the P.O is in violation of Federal law.
if you are going for your medical exam give as little information as possible. If you are deemed not hireable by the postal service, Call your congressman/woman. they are also bound by law to help you. Thats how I got hired. hope this Helps

I'm guessing that depends on whether you claim disability (10 pts) or not

First of all thank you so very, very much for you help. Next thing is do you know a quick way, to get your medical records from Veteran's Affairs. And do you know if the post office has are right to request you medical records so they can look at them? Or is it just a process to get the job?

Here are a couple links to get you started. The first is for EL-312 Employment and Placement Handbook. Don't let the "handbook" part fool you, its a pdf file that is 305 pages long.

http://www.chicagopostalworker.com/Subject...Emp%20Placement.pdf

 The second is EL-307, Reasonable Accommodations. Its another pdf file. It will seem a lot of the information is the same, but some parts are different.

http://www.chicagopostalworker.com/Subject...0Accommodations.pdf


 I got these links form the www.chicagopostalworker.com website. It has a lot of good links for publications. You should take some time and read these pubs that I gave you links to. When I hird on, I went directly into the maintenance department, but as far as I can tell, these are postal wide publications that cover everyone.

Oh, by the way I am applying for city carrier. If that helps any.

And do you have to send your medical records to them when they ask you for it?

So where in the world do I find this information at? Because for some reason, I think I am going to have some very, very serious problems. Do you have a site I can go to, or can you email me that information. Please. Thanks for the help by the way.

Where do I find this information at?



       
---------------------------------
Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. < replied-to message removed by QT >

Remember that if you have to go a route similar to mine, for every correspondonce you write, always quote the pub and paragraph number for each point. This will help to keep then from saying, "thats just not true". It would also probalby help you by letting them know you've done your homework and are prepared to fight for the job. If your successful and get hired, you'll find there are alot of rules and publications, but a lot of personnel don't know what they are. And either the hiring personnel don't know what they are or they try to act dumb to see if you'll just go away quietly.

Here is a short stroy that turned into a long one.

Like epicon66 was saying, they will try to stop you from hiring on. When I was being hired, I had to do the medical exam that your getting ready to do. I was rated at 30% by the VA. The doctor checked me out and told me she was required to make a medical assessment of whether I could do the job I was being hired for for at least 6 months with no expectations of problems from my VA ratings. The doctor stated in her report that I currently showed no symptoms or abnormalities to prevent me from being hired, but since I was rated at 30%, there was no way to be sure.
 The post office hiring official took that info and tried to deny hiring me, by simply stating that I was not fit to work at the post office. I had already expected that and had read up on the procedures the post office must take to deny a vet pref with 30% or more rating. The post office didn't follow precise procedures, by not following the proper timeline for my appeals. I also requested a "reasonable accommadation" for my ratings with specific requests to overcome what might be considered a disability. I didn't really need them, since I was asking for reasonable accommadations for things that would not interfere with my performance. I don't have diabetes, but it would be like me asking for permission to bring a hypodermic to work with insulin to overcome that disability. Not that I'm downplaying diabetes. So I played that card. The reasonable accomadation request has to go to district level personnel instead of the hiring official. The hiring official has to give a very good reason for not hiring a 30% or more rated vet. Since I had requested the reasonable accommadation, there was no good reason for not hiring given, and had pointed out some facts regarding their "illegal" hiring practices in the same letter, the matter was dropped and I was hired within 2 weeks.
 Not every story will go this way, but this one is mine. Read up on the hiring practices and pay particular attention to hiring vets, hiring timelines for denial, and reasonable accommadation requests.

they will try to say you are unfit for service but fight them

Also, will this medical check up stop me from getting the job at all? I get 60%. Don't know what to expect. It has me nervous. What do I need to say to them?

What should I expect during the post office medical examaniton. And why do they want to send a copy of your rateing from Veterans Affair. Can this stop me from getting a job? Is this the last step?

C'mon fellow Vet we are just bustin your B_lls a little humor never hurt anyone- much. besides if you do ever get hired you'll find out what the rest of us have about working at the Post Office errr as a cotton picker on potters plantation- Vets are blackballed, family members run the PO and if you had any up in HR then you wouldnt even be having this conversation. But good luck.

thanks to steve martin for for his advice, since I am a tough skin person, the people that responded saying that I cant add, well I had a tough monday morning, just seeking some advice from some vets and I get a bozo response for not adding my numbers up, well that just goes to show you that this web sites sucks.....

besides not being able to add which is a strike against you (unless you want to be a nepovisor) you are a vet which the postal service is trying to eliminate from service so as downsizing continues they dont have to deal with the "Burden" of dealing with rules pertaining to vets.

/m372 Congratulations! You have already failed the math test.LMAO

Not true you want to score as high as possible because if anyone scores higher than you they will be hired first. If you score 77points with your military service points, you will be placed at the top of the 77 scores providing another vet with 10 points doesn't bump you

< replied-to message removed by QT >

hello - I am about to take the test and I will get the vets 5 point preference, my question is: If I score say 72 plus my 5 points gives me a score of 78 am I am then place on the list with the others or is their a whole separate list just for vets? And from my understanding of this, they must exhaust the list for veterans first before hiring regular people, is that correct? So if I just passed the postal exam, it really doesn't matter what score I get, I will get hired first before the other people correct? Any advise on this would be helpful, thanks so much.

YOU are right frank isnt a Vet and has stated to his stewards that he feels there should be no Vet Pref status and all employees should be treated equal. He is corrupt and in the back pocket of management, im sure he got paid off well for burying that grievance dealing with the 1000 Vets who were unlawfully denied their Vet Pref status by HR. Initially he told the HR manager that what he did was illegal now after he buried that grievance he recently stated that he feels it was just a small error by management denying the Vets their Pref status.

For intell and anyone else, from the horse's mouth:
http://www.opm.gov/veterans/html/vetsinfo.asp#Word
OPM has other links as do some of the other US agencies.
Many states have veterans outreach pages that summarize
benefits of veterans preference eligibles.
For epicon66: Frank has always been down on preference
eligibles...funny thing too, him not being a veteran of
anything. Also funny in that one of our National APWU officers
is a strong advocate of veterans rights...Cliff Guffy from
Oklahoma.
The big problem with preference is the Union most of the time
doesn't know anything about a preference vet's problems UNLESS
he get's HIRED, and in Buffalo,NY, they do their best to keep
DISABLED vet's out, even when you can DO THE JOB. Their medical
officer, a female management minion, postulates on most disabled
vets that they will someday have an on the job problem because of
their injury, and they don't get hired. We recently had a case of
a vet who they wouldn't hire for a carrier vacancy because of his
injury in the service, even though the military stated he was fit
to serve....BIG STINK AND NEWSPAPER PUBLICITY, PLUS TV COVERAGE
LOCALLY FORCED AN ABOUT FACE AND REEVALUATION, AND HE WAS HIRED.
nuff said.

Edited by author 03-26-2008 04:58 AM
Aren't we involved in 2 wars- how many Vet returning from these wars? but the Vet workforce numbers are steady decreasing at a major rate. Are Vets really as stupid as the PO is attempting to claim? I scored 100% on a Vet Pref only exam but was unlawfully denied Pref status and eliminated from the job- How many others was this done to throughout the U.S. I was told it was done to over a 1000 here in Buffalo by our head HR manager (errr add dick to the head part as his first name really is richard)- for his role in doing this to the Vets!!!. Last name rhymes with DUMBASS without the B - Alledgedly but for real.

2002 workforce- 751,980
2002 Vets- 223,796
2006 workforce- 695,890
2006 Vets- 179,348
 so total workforce jobs lost= 56,000 of those Vet jobs lost=45,000 The postal service claims that its the Vets who at fault for not getting hired when in fact it is their unlawful hiring practices that are keeping the Vets out.

go to the site map on the left side of the Postal reporter lead page and see the rapid decrease in Veterans under the Veterans rights section this is why the PO unlawfully denies Vet Pref status to Vets and Blackballs us out of Maintenance positions.

Yes thats true like 2 years ago they sent me an excess letter but then cancelled- why would a Vet waive preference your next waive would be goodbye as your getting the boot out the door.

True you can be excessed but only after non pref. eligibles have been excessed

Excessing: As a Veteran with Preference, you can be excessed from your job and even your installation, but you have to be placed into the same level pay. You may waive your Preference to be place into a Lower level job.

I was a SSG in the Army, Bncoc honor grad, have over 900 hours of correspondence courses, extensive commendations and certifications on my job competency including 5 consect. commendables on division command inspections. scored 94 and 95 on last 2 SDT exams. but after going before the PO review board for 2 1/2 hours and told how very impressed they were with my extensive qualifications i received an "ineligible" and told they didnt have to tell me my exam scores or why i received the ineligible rating or why they wont let me transfer.

Thanks for the conversation and "intell"

I did electronics for the 12 years active duty but even though ive taken the tech exams and have been on the "switch over to custodial" list for a few years they refuse to transfer me over, theyve only allowed non vets to switch over- my belief is they hope to do to cust/maint what they did to the Postal police once all vets are gone. Time to get going - got to go "get on the Clock"

So you are a non- compensible 10 point vet

The union went upstairs and had it corrected on paper designating me as a Vet Pref Eligible. I was denied any Vet status along with over a 1000 others(as told to the APWU pres and myself by HR) as far as i know im the only 1 here in Buffalo that got hired- i was active duty from 1984-1996.

how did they "give" you the status when the union is not incontrol of ratings and tests? where you a 10 point vet when you were hired?

The union later "gave" me the status after i agreed to write up the supervisor directly responsible for the injury i had to have surgery for, since they were after him for other things.

if the grieveance is beyond StepII he is correct. if its not you can file an appeal. If not you can wait until the grieveance is settles you have 30 or 60 days from the settlement to appeal.

I filed the grievance showing they denied the status from me after i scored 100% on an exam that you have to be Vet Pref for but HR claimed that since he was hiring me as a clerk PO regs state he didnt have to give me the status. The APWU Pres said it could take years to settle -I went out for surgery and like 2 weeks after i was out they finalized errr buried it giving me 5 months back senority(only) i didnt find out about it til i came back to work like 6 months later. A lawyer told me since i signed on for the grievance i was bound by their finalization.

But you have direct recouse..... if you have the grieveance number you can file a labor charge against the union and he will have to awnser to the NLRB. Union presidents are not above reproach

When your APWU president isnt a vet and makes statements that he is against Vet Pref Eligibles because they have certain rights over a non vet employee and buries a grievance showing the PO unlawfully denied Vet Pref status to over 1000 Gulf War Vets you realize he's as corrupt as management for denying the status to the vets for the sole purpose of keeping the Vets out of the PO so they can downsize the workforce at will without repercussions from VA or MSPB..

That is true only if you were on the ground in country. Or were in direct support. A Vet is a Vet. but there are several factors that can preclude you from preference. According to the law unless you were on the ground or in support OR you have an expiditionary medal. you are a 5-point Vet

A Vet is a Vet but War time Vets errr Vet Pref. Eligibles such as Vietnam or the Gulf (90-92)are designated as such by the President for certain time frames of the War- that would make the difference along with certain rights/protections.

Thanks

As a 5 point veteran you are a preferance eligible but you dont have super seniority. you do have some linited recourse through MSPB. But to be honest, until you get a rating of at least 10%, 30% or more is preferable. you very welll may be excessed. Remember if you are excessed file a stepI grievance. and file a MSPB appeal under adverse personel action. hope this helps.

All that is still in process?

I normally do not respond to STUPID people. You seem to want to jump in where you do not belong. Sure your mother always told you if you can not say anything nice then just keep your mouth shut. I did not step on you and your problems so if you can not help then just fly off somewhere else. Never heard or saw anything that said a veteran is not a veteran War time or not. This site is about helping other veterans not about giving them further grief, we had enough while serving and trying to get help for serving our country.

BigSurge,

do you have a VA rating at all even 0% ?

Stop trying to freeload off of the Goverment,if you have a bad back that means you cant carry mail= BA_BYE....try pulling that crap at UPS and see what happens to you..BTW if you were claiming a ""bad back"' in 2001 what war were you in?

Right now since 2001 I am fighting with the VA. I was not informed about keeping a copy of my medicial records at my discharge. I had went on sick call serval times concerning my back. At this time they can not find my complete medicial records. All they have sent me is that last form you have to fill out at discharge. We are in the appeal stage and awaiting word. This has been a very stressful process and contining to pray that a light will be at the end of the tunnel.

first question are you a compensible veteran?

Any veterans on limited/light duty going through the postal service excessing? Would like to hear how it is going and what is going on? What rights do the veterans have and etc.

I'm willing to take the test almost anywhere but the problem is USPS only offers the rural carrier test on a (every 3 or 4 months)regular basis. The mega exam that I took is only offered once a year. I am hoping that several people scored in the 70's so I could at least be interviewed and have a chance at a job.

take the test again when offered and WHERE offered. how for would you be willing to commute?

I took the mega exam in Tallahassee, Fl and scored a low 76.3%. Does that mean I scored too low to receive a letter for interview?? I'm thinking maybe just give up and realize I won't be interviewed with a score in the 70's. Any thoughts??

It means you are not the person they had in mind for the job whether you scored higher on the exam or not.

I received an Ineligible rating. Don't understand. What does this mean? I am already on as a rural carrier but did not want this position I wanted the electronic tech position. Did this affect this?

Thanks for the reply Epicon. I think the manager's attitude must have been over my vet preference, that's the only thing I can think of. He was nitpicking my application trying to find any little thing to take issue with. I told him when he looks at my record as a casual over the past 3 years, he will notice I have a good record (never taken an unauthorized day off, etc.) After that I asked him if he's a vet, he said no. So I wouldn't be surprised if he has the same line of thinking as the other management you mentioned (i.e against vet preference, etc).

Oh well, if they pass me over it's not the end of the world, I'm also eyeing a state job. But I will still file a complaint or inquiry with the APWU or whomever I have to, just to point out this unfair treatment of vets.

if they dont hire you go to VA see what you can get from them on this matter.

Edited by author 03-03-2008 04:50 AM
Ted im a vet pref also the postal service here denied me vet pref status when hiring me saying that this was legal since they in fact did hire me although not for the job i wanted. after fighting for my status i finally was "given" it after i agreed to write a statement against a supervisor for negligence. since being hired (10 years ago) ive learned that the postal management is against pref eligibles because they have to afford and abide by certain rules which they dont want to during such times as excessing etc. it is my belief that due to nepotism running the postal service they have screwed vets over since the law changed in 1996 making gulf war vets pref eligible. I filed a grievence about this after the union president and i were told by human resources that they denied pref to over 1000 gulf war vets during 1997- 2000. Instead of letting this grievence go national the union pres and human resources buried the grievence when i went out for surgery and never notified me but on the bright side they back dated my senority 5 months- errr 5 months of senority at the bottom left me still at the bottom of the senority list but im sure the corrupt union president got paid off well.

Edited by author 03-02-2008 08:14 PM
I'm a disabled vet w/ preference. I've been working as a casual for the past 3 years steady. I took the 473 exam last year and was called to an interview last week for sales/distribution clerk position. During the interview, the station manager was a real @sshole. Not sure why, I was nothing but kind from the moment they called me into the interview room (after keeping me waiting 45 minutes past my appointment time without even acknowledging that I was there). Not sure where his bad attitude came from but I managed to hold my tongue during the interview, even when he asked me an "illegal" interview question (if I'm married/have a family) I still went along with it.

So here are my questions:

1) I doubt that I will get this position, but how long should I wait to hear anything from them before giving up and looking for something else? As I said it's been a week...actually almost 2 weeks now. At the end of the interview one of the guys sent me for a drug test and that was it, I wasn't really given the chance to ask any questions about the process from there.

2) Since I have vet preference, and in fact I know that I am first on the register in my city, if I don't get this position will my name go back on the register in its original place?

Thanks for any info. and good luck to everyone who is testing/interviewing!

Here is an interesting video on youtube.com on how not to run a union meeting. It is from the APWU Local 197 July 2007 meeting. Look how the President does not let the members do a motion when he does not like it. Here is the link for the video:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=PvRU7g64vo4

Or you can do a search for apwu197

RodW /m326 DPerkins has provided excellent information. Another thing to consider, both cities that you speak of, Jax and Tampa, have a very high number of military retirees and veterans. So their hiring registers could be top heavy with others with veterans preference. Unless there is a high turnover of postal employees, you may be waiting a long time. If there was another area that you could be interested in, that would not have so many veterans and retirees, your chances should improve. Maybe HR can aim you in the right directtion.

Edited by author 02-22-2008 03:37 AM
RodW:
Career craft employees (i.e., clerks, mailhandlers, carriers, etc.) must be hired from a "register of eligibles." This is a list of applicants who have taken the postal exam. The list is in score order sequence augumented by veterans preference, except that disabled veterans (who have a passing raw score of 70) are placed at the top of the list ahead of all other applicants.

When you take the postal exam, you identify the jobs you wish to be considered for as well as (normally) 3 offices you wish to work at. When a career vacancy occur, a register is pulled based on the job and office with the vacancy. If it is a job and office you selected, then your name will be on the register. A selection is made from one of the top three scores and a preference eligible cannot be passed over to select a non-preference eligible (without a suitable reason). Scores are normally valid for two years, but an extra year can be requested after you have been on the register for 1 and 1/2 years.

You need to find out who handles exams for Jacksonville and Tampa and check your status (this function may now be at the HR shared service center in Greensboro). They can tell you what jobs and offices you chose and if you are still "live" on any registers.

Being a casual is a good move (with one caveat) and your assumption is correct that the better Christmas casuals are kept after the Christmas season. The only drawback is if your work performance/attendance deteriorates they could give you bad evaluations (or even release you). Then, that information could be used to passover you for a career job.

GOOD LUCK
Retired HR-Guy "Duck Soup"

Edited by author 02-22-2008 01:40 AM
how many gulf war vet. pref eligibles (1990-1992), not just regular vets- there is a difference- were hired after 1997 when the law was changed. i was hired in 1998 but was denied vets pref. along with over 1000 others here in buff. management and the union buried the grievence i filed about this while i was out having surgery. Their both corrupt.

/323 That's right. After you become a career employee your Veterans Preference is no longer any good for job selection.

Edited by author 02-16-2008 09:44 PM
My question is, “can someone give me guidance and or direction on becoming a career employee”? I am a US Army veteran with a 30% service connected disability rating. I am interested in a CAREER position within the postal service. I was offered a casual clerk position in St. Petersburg, Florida in September of 07’ which I accepted. This was after I had taken the postal service career exam (battery 473) in Jacksonville, FL. in 2006 and again in Tampa, FL. in 2007. In each instance I scored in the 90’s which includes my veterans’ preference points. I was recently transferred to the Tampa, FL. P&DC with 4 other casuals whom the postal service did not let go after the holiday season. It is rumored that the good casual employees are kept, while all others are released until the next holiday season. This speaks to the fact that I must at least be a decent employee and able to do the job despite my disability. I feel I have done all the things required to become a career employee, yet nothing has happened. Can someone here direct me to a point of contact who may be able to help me to get my foot in the door? I will accept any position offered to me with the exception of a driving job. Due to my military injuries I am blind in my right eye which placed a restriction on my driver’s license and hinders me from employment in driving positions. Any guidance, advice and or assistance will be greatly appreciated.
rod.wilson@yahoo.com

God bless

Edited by author 02-16-2008 06:41 AM
I took the tech exams then went to the review board- they said they were very impressed with all my training that i had more than they see come through then i promptly received an ineligible rating. It seems they are attempting to keep pref elig out of the cust/maint craft. as you wrote Legal? Fair?????

66- I can feel your pain. I only scored a 98 on the exam and with my 10 disability points I had a 108 point total. While in HR the supervisor gave me the scoop. They had never hired custodians off the street. start as craft and apply. Some converted as soon as they completed probation. Legal? Fair?????

Edited by author 02-13-2008 07:25 AM
By the way i was "given" my vet pref status by the union in 2000 after i wrote a statement against a supervisor for the union and they used it against him. prior to this both the union and management keep telling me that since i was hired as a clerk they didnt have to give me the status- which i felt was a right given for service during the war by the president not for human resources to pick and choose.

I was active duty (SSG) U.S. Army from 1984-1996 including the gulf war, after getting out i was hired by the postal service in 1997 but was denied Vet. pref. status after i scored 100% on the custodial exam and instead hired as a clerk. 2004 i filed a grievance after Human resources told the APWU president and i that they denied the pref to over a 1000 gulf war vet pref eligibles (they said it was by mistake but i feel it was purposely done to keep the vet pref status personnel out). The grievance was finalized (buried) after i went out for elbow surgery with only a 5 month senority back date for me. I wanted to get switched to custodian and go for technician as i did electionics for the 12 years i was in the service. I retook all the tech and cust. exams and still wont be allowed to switch over even though numerous others (non vet prefs)have been switched- my feeling and a few others feel it maybe because the Postal service wants to do to the cust. and techs as they did with the postal police and eliminate the career jobs. Any others with this situation?

To All,
As many veterans know, whenever they file an EEO Complaint regarding a matter that could also be under the jurisdiction of the Merit Systems Protection Board (constructive suspension of more than 14-days, removal or constructive removal, etc) the Postal Service has been forcing these individuals into the M.S.P.B. arena, whether they want to go there or not. Once before the Board, they find that the Postal Service is arguing that the Board doesn’t have jurisdiction (even though they forced the employee into the M.S.P.B. arena), and the employee finds they have to argue that the Board has jurisdiction (even though they didn’t want to go to the Board in the first place). If the full Board finds that they don’t have jurisdiction, the employee then has to appeal that decision to the OFO (even though the Board doesn’t usually advise employees that they have the right to appeal to OFO), asking that the case be “un-mixed”, placed under the jurisdiction of the EEOC, and remanded to the EEOC’s District Office for a hearing.
How much time has been wasted by the employee, the agency, and the Board just force the employee into a circular path to the EEOC?
Recently I was contacted by an attorney for NEEOISO who told me that he AGREED WITH ME (regarding a similar argument made recently to OFO in one of my cases). He too thought it a waste of time and resources and seemed to want to change how these circumstances have been handled (after all, the Postal Service wants to try to save money too). He asked me to provide him with the name(s), location(s), and contact information regarding any employees who are in similar circumstances.
So I am requesting that all of you put the word out that we are looking for preference eligible employees who have filed EEO complaints, but contrary to their choice of process, have been essentially forced to appeal to the M.S.P.B. Please have them contact me at –
J.R. Pritchett
postalemployeeadvocate@juno.com

Can someone explain the delivery time for express on observed holidays. Is this the same as every other day?

  had to take a new job due to on the job injuries and military injuries,I have had to go on antidepressants,and blood pressure meds due to taking this job.But yet they will deny me a custodial job

and he will be making new friends in jail. they will be lining up when they find out what you are in for!!!!!

Johnny#5 that was DUMB. There is so much software in use by govt and private industry that flags keywords no one can get away with porn for long. I hope you have aa lawyer and a job prospect. Good luck

Postal advocate I have a question for you.

I'm a preferenced veteran supervisor removed for viewing pornography on computers. The OIG investigated on Mar 22, 2007 in which I confessed to everything because it was true and I had no representation because I knew nothing about NAPS. After the investigation I was told I couldn't talk to anyone about the case. After speaking with the Postmaster, He took me into her office because he stated that I couldn't be charged criminally for anything and it becaomes an admin action. The Postmaster asked me did I do what was on her paper and I stated yes. She then asked me if I wanted to resign or I will be forced to take 2 weeks LWOP. I took the 2 weeks and when it was up asked to return to work but was denied and placed on admin lve for about 2 1/2 mths before being interviewed by her because another supervisor and a manager who sent us both sexually explicit material was interviewed by OIG also. Supervisor was placed on emergency lve and manager was placed on admin lve by his boss. Now we are 1 week away from MSPB and after the judge stated that I may have a case concerning the LWOP as being discipline, the lawyer asked for the paperwork of the leave which had already given him. After reviewing the lve I noticed that it began a day later instead of the day I had my badge and keys taken and walked out of the building. I take this as being a 15 day suspension which I stated to the lawyer I received no MSPB rights. The next day a manager from the P.O. came out to deliver me a check for that time I was LWOPed. Can you tell me why they want to give this money back 1 week before the board hearing? I have confessed to everything and NAPS wouldn't help my case but I no that my Douglas factor rights have been violated. Thanks for your help.

crazy , apply for disibility with po and dav.

 I am thinking of disability retirement for my postal injury,i am 60% d.a.v. can i get unemployability from the v.a. too

Hello, nice site :)

Glenn; how do you know you got a 78? Sounds like you got a letter stating your score, which is proof you took the test???????

Crazy/309
If you are a preference eligible veteran management must provide you with work within your medical restrictions, as long as you are ready, willing, and able to work, and your doctor says that you can work with restrictions. If you have been in a forced leave or in a LWOP status for more than 14-days, you should file a “constructive suspension” appeal and/or an “enforced leave” appeal with the Merit Systems Protection Board. You can go to their web site at www.mspb.gov and fill out the appeal form. You are protected by the Veterans’ Preference Act in this regard. You can also raise disability discrimination as an affirmative defense.
Amy/310 said - “Contact your Union rep only they can help at this point” is absolute Bullsh*t. Very few union officers are sufficiently prepared or knowledgeable about veteran’s rights. She may have meant well but the advice is far off the mark. If you would like more information, you can contact me at postalemployeeadvocate@juno.com.

Contact your Union rep only they can help at this point.

  I am a D.A.V. and am injured and cannot go back to my job,I have been denied other jobs at the P.O. because of my injury now I here I am on the reassessment list what should I do?

53db81f775b00c9848af5a626cace987

This was posted by a rural carrier on another site but I have an idea it will be helpful to many:

PAYROLL QUESTIONS


Have you ever gotten a Letter of Demand that makes absolutely no sense to you
 or to your manager? Have you ever had $95 deducted from your check with no explanation?
Have you ever wondered what is happening with your paycheck?



With the downsizing of the Finance Department in the Districts, it is often
difficult for a rural carrier or a manager to get answers to important questions about our pay.
Dont fret; there is now a National number you can call directly to iron out the payroll problems
your local managers are unwilling or unable to fix.



The Accounting Help Desk is ready to help you with payroll questions. There
 is even a toll-free telephone number: 1-866-974-2733.
  You will need your I.D. Number and your USPS PIN Number.



Your I.D. number is on the right side at the top of your earnings statement
(pay stub). It is an 8 digit number. The Postal Service is no longer using
Social Security numbers for I.D. numbers.



Your USPS PIN number is the same one you use to access PostalEASE. If you have
 forgotten your PIN number, or if you never got one, dial 1-877-477-3273.
 Your PIN number will be mailed to you.

I have a question to all you Carrier Vets out there. As a PTF Carrier on probation and a paid union member, how can the Union protect me if my Supervisor is hellbent on firing me for being slow?

Amy

Re: Low Morale Carrier - Sorry I couldn't have been of more help & I apoloize for referring you to HR. When we used to have Data Site employees thats where I went to find out about getting paid for a settlement we had coming, but that was several years ago. They knew everything, this one woman that worked there would keep bugging management until they submitted the paper work so she could process the request and get a pay date. I guess its up to the union now, I hope they're trust worthy.

I took the exam in either 2000 is there any way i can get my results?? i need them for another job. I only got a 78 so i was never selected but i need proof that i took the exam for the Post Office.

/m302 Thanks for the advice Top TTO, i called the number, they told me to call my Union.....

Mandy/298 The Postal Advocate Employee is giving you good advice, now if I might add my two cents. File an EEO NOW!!! While you are waiting for the package to arrive in the mail get an attorney. They're expensive but their fees are included in your award when you win, so you'll get your money back. Thats what I did, because when you file an EEO the PO will turn the case over to staff attorney if a settlement can't be reached at the Redress Hearing and you'll want to push this case past the Redress hearing and have it heard by a judge. Don't miss any filing deadlines. Good Luck, based on what you say I think you've got a real good chance, keep us posted.

Low Morale Carrier Call the HR department at1-877-477-3273 option 5.

I am a 10 percent disabled vet
and I won a Grievence through the B-Team on 8/22/07, now management has to add up all the hours in question to come to the amount that i am to be paid (back pay), i was fired on my 81st day of probation for not making dois times, too slow is what management said and I fought it for 2 months and got my job back before it went to the MSPB because i was never actually fired,never got anything in writing, told to surrender my badge and escorted from the building by my supe and manager (who is now our postmaster)and all they did was just remove me from the station senority rolls although technically and according to the Districts records i was still employed, never terminated so now i will be paid wages in leu of EVERY PTF at the station for those 2 months.

My question is how long does it take after the B-Team awards a greivence does it take for the greivant to be payed and how will i be payed, a separate check or will it be apart of my payroll check? There was no date specified in the letter of award and most people are telling me usually within 30 days i should see it.

The union on the other hand is telling me "we must give them reasonable time to add up all the hours and calculate all the monies you are to be paid", so then i ask what is a reasonable amount of time and then my union prez starts the old broken record routine. To date it will be one month from the date i won on September 22.

Any info is appreciated.

Mandy/298
Generally, in order to fall under the jurisdiction of the Merit Systems Protection Board you must have been in the same position for a least one year. To determine whether there are any exceptions to this rule I recommend that you go to the Board’s web site at www.mspb.gov and research cases that are similar. Keyword “probationary period” and it will show a list of cases that you can read through.
From a different angle your husband may want to consider filing an EEO complaint. (Keep in mind that he only has 45-days from the date he was let go to contact a Postal Service EEO Counselor. The number to contact is 888-336-8777.) He should consult with the local Mail Handler union to find out if other employees have been let go during their probation, and if so, how often does it occur. How is your husband different from the employees that were retained during their probationary period? Is your husband different with respect to his race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, or disability? Perhaps management was aware that he had an impairment so didn’t want to keep him. Were the other employees who were let go during their probation also similarly endowed with some impairment? Or perhaps there’s a pattern of letting go older workers during their probation, etc.
If nothing else, an EEO complaint might at least afford your husband another shot at a probationary period. Writing a letter to your Congressperson about the situation couldn’t hurt either.

I just left this message on www.21cpw.com in the General Union Business. I do not know how long it will stay up on this website. So I am also posting it here

festusw@yahoo.com
San Diego Local 197
Member only
- Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 10:51:10 (PDT)

I would like to apologize to Frank and Randy for the actions of a few individuals in our local. Because, of an idividual actions who attacked my posting. My original posting was removed. About 1 week ago, I posted here the below written message. I was only just asking for information from other Union members so I could see if I was correct in my understanding of this article that was written in our local newsletter.


Hello Everyone,

I am a member of San Diego Local 197. Two days ago, I just recieved my my Local's Newsletter "the Potpourri". Inside this issue beginning with the cover page were the normal items that I had seen in earlier issues. But beginning on page 10 of this issue I began to get disturbed while reading on article by Chief Shop Steward Will Tagart. The reason I was getting disturbed was this Chief Shop Steward was attacking fellow Union Members. One Union member he was attacking was the former Vice President of our Local 197 who had resigned do to disagreeing with our current Local President. The other member the Chief Shop Steward is attacking in the article is the current Asst. Clerk Craft Director Tammy Yorsch. This verbal attack goes on for three pages and is then followed by twenty one pages of documents that the Chief Shop Steward says supports his accusations.

I have taken the time to scan the complete issue of our Local's newsletter into JPEG's. I am willing to send this to anyone who would care to see what is currently being pushed onto the members of this local. If someone out there can look this over for I believe that there is something fundementally wrong with what has happened. Please let me know if I am right concerning this? If so what can either I or someone at National do about this abuse?

Thank you,

Marion Williams


So Randy and Frank keep up the good work on this website for I have gotten good information from it in the past and look forward to reviewing it later.

Thank you,

Marion F. Williams

Edited by author 09-18-2007 08:22 PM
My husband was fired from the post office last week with only three days to go before his 90 day probation period was up and he has a 10 point veterans peference and was in a mail handlers position. He was asked to stay and work overtime to get whatever type of mail out and he did. When he did all he could with that mail he left. The person who was working with him was supposed to weigh the mail and did not and walked out and left it sitting there. My husband got the blame for this even though he doesn't know how to weigh the mail. Also they said that he didn't show up for work on time several days. Thats true thats because his tour super said not to pay atten. to the scheuled that he should come in 2 hours later and we get a phone call form the next tour super wanting to know why he was late. My question is finally sorry is there something we can do to get his job back because of the 10 point preference and what rules are they to follow to fire a vet in probation..... I think I am putting this message in the right spot if not sorry about that....

Edited by author 08-30-2007 11:00 AM
ALL POSTERS (WITH SPECIAL ATTENTION TO "TOP TTO" & "SAD MOM":
  
"Top TTO" makes a good point about folks updating the Board. I would add that many asking for advice provide such "sketchy" info that's its hard to give them useful input. (Now, I admit my posts are probably too long, and I should ask more questions before trying to help.)

Feedback, though, is important so we can all learn what's helpful and what's not. For example, a message like "I followed DUCK SOUP's advise and, not only didn't it work, they also fired me!!" could be helpful to others. (Of course, I would respond: "Hey, I just provided info in response to your post. It was always your ultimate choice how to proceed. However, I do feel badly when a vet gets fired, so I'm sending you an original early 70s 'SORRY 'BOUT THAT' tab.")

Anyway, I read the article "Top TTO" gave us the "heads up" on. As I understand it, it would eliminate a vet's right to a hearing and an MSPB Judge could just "summarily dismiss" his case. As "Top TTO" indicated, that wouldn't be a good development. I plan to write my reps and voice my concerns. (I put the link to the article below, as well as links to all the congressmen and senators.)

In conclusion, I'm also against contracting out the postal motor vehicle service (MVS) jobs for a number of reasons. In my experience, our drivers (i.e., postal drivers - I'm a retiree) did a better job than contractors. Also, this move is just another attack on the middle class (lower paid workers with no benefits). Postal jobs are viewed as pretty good jobs (wage and benefit-wise), but a lot depends on where you live. I noticed "Top TTO" is in California, so he's earning his dough - I don't mind whatever potion of the cost of my stamps he ends up with - so I'll add some concerns about this type of contracting out when I write my reps.

In closing, "SAD MOM", WHERE ARE YOU? WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH YOUR SON?...DID HE TRY TO TRANSFER?...DID HE RESIGN?...WAS HE FIRED?...IS HE FIGHTING THE EVIL SUPERVISORS?...LET US KNOW, WE'RE ROOTING FOR HIM!

http://www.govexec.com/dailyfed/0307/032307m1.htm

http://www.house.gov/house/MemberWWW_by_State.shtml

http://www.senate.gov/

Duck Soup - I am not a lawyer either. I' ve been put through the mill too, but not to your extent. I 've filed an EEO against the PO and was able to settle my case without going to the MSPB, I was lucky that time. I was thinking about "Sad Mom's," case and I was beginning to wonder if she was getting the whole truth from her son? She hasn't updated us, so who knows. Your suggestion of filing an EEO is a better avenue of approach though, he could get a redress hearing a lot quicker that way and it wouldn't matter if he is still on probation and he could have an attorney present too.

  Regarding my court case. It is actually a class action suit being brought by the union against the PO. The PO has wanted to privitize transportation for several years, but, there is a regulation prohibiting them from taking a veterans job and giving it directly to a contractor. There are so many veterans in the PO that management decided not to test the waters, then Bush became President and now his appointees chair the board. So the PO tried a test case, "The Haranots," decision, I think I misspelled it though, anyway, the PO won the test case and now they are going full bore on contracting out jobs. The test case involved clerks, but the PO has changed focus to transportation and maintenance. We, the mvs craft in pasadena ca. have already been excessed out of the facility and our jobs have been handed over to HCR's. Our local president told us that the union was going to by pass the MSPB & the whole veterans issue and take the case to federal court on some other grounds, what I don't know, stay tuned.

Regarding your last question, the MSPB wants to change the rules on how it decides cases. They want the authority to decide cases on a summary judgment basis. You can search for the article on the GOVEXEC.com website, dated March 23, 2007, "Merit board seeks summary judgement powers," by Jenny Mandel. Her email address is jmanded@govexec.com. I wouldn't grant this board any more power than they already have, I don't trust them. I hope its not too late, so much time as passed since the article was published, we were excessed in April, I work two jobs, there was just so much going on suddenly its August. Thanks for wanting to help, keep me posted.

hi, there,
I am not a new immigrant, and I want to apply a city carrier job.
I live in New York city.
I took 473-c exam, my score is 82. however, i got a rejection letter said that I don't have a good driving record, so i am not eligible for this job.
the story is that I have a car for 2 years, the car and insurance is under my name, last june, my girl friend borrowed my car, and she hit another car. I wasn't in the car, that was not my accident.

I feel very innocent for this rejection reason. is it possible to argue it? where can i get my detail driving record? how to fight for this rejection?
thank you in advanced

Duck Soup - Check back Saturday, I'll have time to go into more detail then.

As I’m writing this, the History Channel is airing a program that attempts to debunk the 9/11 truth movement, i.e. that 9/11 was an inside job. Never in my life have I been so blatantly subjected to overt propaganda. I encourage everyone who knows that 9/11 could not have happened according to the official story to write to the History Channel to voice your disgust and objection. You should also write to the sponsors of this mythical program including: VISA, Intel, Sam Adams Beer, Royal Bank of Scotland, Circuit City, Saturn car company, Dish Network, ACT Mouthwash, Pamprin Max, Citi Bank, Progressive Insurance, Fidelity Investments, Viagra, Nextel, FedEx, & Conoco-Phillips. Don’t believe the government (ever) and let the sponsors know how offended you are at being subjected to this unapologetic propaganda.

In response to Top TTO's post # 291, I wasn't neccessarily suggesting that "Sad Mom's" son file with MSPB. I was just trying to list all of the options that I could think of to possibly fight a removal during probation. Note that I said that he could "maybe even file with MSPB" and that "I thought I saw an interesting case on that recently, but that's pretty much a new development."

In short, I could only think of two legal recourses for "Sad Mom's" son: EEO and possibly MSPB . I notice that you suggest going straight to federal court (and using MSPB as a last resort). However, what federal law could "Sad Mom's" son say the Postal Service viloated by removing him during probation?

On the other hand (with regard to MSBP), a veteran can make a claim under USERRA that he was discriminated against based on his military service, which would allow him to complain to the DOL, and then (if nothing came of the DOL complaint)to file with MSPB. If MSPB didn't rule in his favor, he could then appeal that ruling to federal court. However, again, I don't think he can go straight to federal court without exhausting his remedy under DOL, losing his initial MSPB complaint, then losing his appeal to the full MSPB Board.

Of course, I'm no lawyer, so one would need to check it out. However, I did represent myself once in a case against postal management. I first complainted to DOL, who agreed with my position. However, postal management still wouldn't budge so I filed with MSBP. Initially, the MSPB Administrative Judge ruled against me. However, I appealed his ruling to the full MSPB Board and it ruled in my favor. Management couldn't get the MSPB to change its mind, so they threatened to appeal to federal court. I told 'em that was fine with me. However, they knew their position was a "loser", so they didn't appeal and instead settled the case with me.

With regard to the MSPB, I view them a little more favorably than you, "Top TTO." However, I would agree that - at the initial level - the MSPB Administrative Judges seem to have a bias in favor of management. However, I believe the full MSPB Board gives vets a pretty fair shake and calls it like the law says. Moreover, in recent years, there have been more wins by vets than in the past. (Funny how the law gets adhered to when we are at war.)

Again, "Top TTO," what law could "Sad Mom's" son say was broken? Also, what is the case you are pursuing through federal court? And, last - "yes," I would definitely want to know more about any plans the Board has to change its procedures. I certainly agree with you that we should fight any changes that negatively impact veterans' rights. Give me the specifics, I'm sure willing to contact my representatives to try and stop any such deviltry that may be afoot. And, thank you "Top TTO" for the "heads up."

Edited by author 08-18-2007 01:52 AM
In response to Duck Soups post #289 where he suggests that Sad Mom might want to have her son file an appeal with the MSPB, I recommend that they use the MSPB as a last resort. The board composed of, "Bush appointees," and a majority of the decisions have gone against the individual veteran. The score was getting so lopsided that we decided not to use that avenue to pursue our case. Instead we are going straight to federal court. Once the word got out that the board was against the individual the case load started dropping. When the board realized this they decided to throw the veterans a bone or two and decided a few cases in our favor. Too late, we already got a read on 'em. The board is also planning to make some changes in the way they decide cases, I hope it is not to late to ask the Senate to disapprove and reject these changes. Want to know more?

Edited by author 08-14-2007 07:23 AM
Another thing folks may want to think about is whether they really want to work for the Post Office at all. I retired recently with over 30 years of service. For the first 15 or so years, I thought it was - all and all - a great job. However, the organization began to change (around the Runyon era) and each year seemed a little worse than the year before. I was under CSRS so I stayed on to retirement.

I used to try to help friends & relatives get a postal job (e.g., tell them about the exam dates, study guides, vets preference rules, etc.). You know, kind of like the advice you see on this Board. But, honestly, now I first warn them that I wouldn't want any of my kids to work for the Post Office. (Then, if they still want to pursue it, I help them.)

Example: A story on the Main Page ("Worker complaints up at post office in Virginia") quotes a vet who quit as stating the following:

"I told a supervisor before I left that in a year in Iraq, I was treated with more respect and dignity than when I was at the post office."

BOTTOM LINE: Do what's best for you, but remember -- if you make a deal with with the Devil -- you gotta work for the Devil!

"Sad Mom", I hope I didn't leave you with the impression that they have to retain your son for at least 90 days (so that he can be evaluated throughout that whole period). They could terminate him anytime from Day 1 through Day 89 and he couldn't appeal through the union.

He could still file an EEO, and maybe even file with MSPB. (I think I saw an interesting case on that recently, but that's pretty much a new development.)

Again, good luck to your son and keep us advised.

"Sad Mom" Donna McKierkan said her PTF son has been asked to resign after only 4 weeks on the job.

"Sad Mom", your son's boss should be using a PS Form 1750, Probationary Period Evaluation during his first 90 days. The first day on the job, the boss should tell him the expectations. Those expectations should be recorded on the form and the boss and your son both sign it (or initial it, I forget which). Then he should be rated at 30 days, 60 days, and 80 days on his performance, again using the same form.

Each evaluation, he would be required to initial the form - which means only that he was evaluated, not that he agreed with the evaluation. Then at 90 days, they make a decision (based on the documentation on the form) whether to retain him or let him go. IMPORTANT NOTE: They should also give your son a copy of the form each time.

Question: Are they using this form with your son?

I'm not sure that I agree with TOP TTO about having a union rep present. In fact, I'm not even sure if he can request one. Unless there has been a change , a new empployee can't be represented by the union until he completes his probationary period. (Plus, the "Big-Bad-Boss-Man" usually senses a so-called "bad worker" around, anytime one requests a union steward.)

While they might be bluffing, since they've asked him to resign, it sounds like it may be beyond the bluff stage. However, Ole' Postal Boss-Man sometimes does like to make sure those early evaluations are low. Keeps the boys in line and makes 'em know they've got to strive harder or they will be terminated!

My advice: Have your son check and see if there is a clerk, mailhandler, or even custodian position open. He could be transferred to one of those positions and it's easier to make the grade there. When I worked in Personnel, I would do that occasionally and it usually worked out pretty well. (The Carrier Bosses seemed to always want someone who could step in and do the same job as an experienced carrier. However, there is definitely a learning curve. Why, even old DUCK SOUP struggled when he transferred to the carrier craft. Then, about a year later, he looked back and laughed because those same all routes had become such a breeze!)

NOW "SAD MOM", MY ADVICE ISN'T FREE - OLD DUCK SOUP COULDN'T HAVE GOTTEN OLD, FAT AND NOW RETIRED FROM THE POSTAL SERVICE WITHOUT LEARNING ALL ITS "INS AND OUTS." IN FACT, OLD DUCK SOUP HAS MANY SCARS FROM HIS QUEST TO FIND OUT "HOW IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE DONE" AND "HOW IT WAS REALLY DONE." BUT ONCE HE HAD THAT KNOWLEDGE - IF THERE WAS ANY DIFFERENCE IN THE TWO - THEN DUCK SOUP HAD THE "EDGE" HE NEEDED.

So "Sad Mom", you must pay for my advise by agreeing NEVER EVER TO POST IN ALL CAPS AGAIN - EXCEPT MAYBE A LITTLE FOR EMPHASIS ONLY. Old DUCK SOUP's eyes are weak from years of scrutinizing the postal regs, etc., so help him out, PLEASE.

And good luck to your son. Let us know how things work out.

Edited by author 08-13-2007 11:12 PM
I agree with TOP TTO. Although the USPS has its share of "hard-noses," it seems unlikely that you would be screened out due to only one no-fault accident during your prior 14 years of employment. I would guess that they didn't perceive you as a "good worker." (No offense intended - sometimes their definition of a "good worker" would not agree with yours or mine.)

Off the top of my head, since they say only your safety record is the issue, I would suggest a polite reply, sort of like: "Thanks for the response to my request for reinstatement. However, I do have a concern about being denied reinstatement due to my safety record. As I recall, I only had one accident during my 14 years of previous employment. And that accident was determined not to be my fault. Perhaps there is some type of mix-up and my records are incorrect. Would you please check to ensure that the decision was made on my safety record and let me know? (Give 'em your name, SSN, dates of employment, etc. and sign off.)

Then the ball is in their court. If they confirm that they looked at the correct record (and still use that as the sole justification for not reinstating you), then I'd follow TOP TTO's advise and ask to see the records.

Top TTO said to use the Freedom of Information Act to gain access to your OPF. However, you'll want to use the Privacy Act, and you'll want to look at all the records they have pertaining to you. The OPF usually contains no information at all about an employee's safety record. However, any record they maintain that is only about you is something you have a right to see. That means you can see the "originals" at the office that maintains the records - not just request that copies be mailed to you. If you review them in person, you'll know everything they have "on record" about you and can get copies of just the ones that you really need.

Of course, if you do the above, they will probably be even more determined not to reinstate you. The USPS wants people to do what they are told, when they are told, and not to make WAVES. They certainly don't want anybody who thinks for themselves or who might appear as equally - or God forbid - more intelligent than anyone above them. Such a person is definitely NOT a "good worker" in their eyes.

Nonetheless, if it's only this one no-fault accident preventing your reinstatement, and they have reinstated others who had an accident in the past, you may be able to - as they say - "kick up a fuss." However, about the only way would be through an EEO complaint. If you felt (for example) that they were actually denying you reinstatement because of a prohibited factor (i.e., based on race, age, sex, etc.) instead of due to your safety record. Then, if there was someone who they reinstated (who had an accident in their prior employment) and that person was of a different race, age, sex, etc., than you, then you might have a fighting chance in EEO.

Also, keep in mind that reinstatement is pretty much all up to management - unlike the initial hiring process. So, maybe your best bet of all at this juncture is to take the test again and get back on the register. (Plus, you could always request reinstatement later and try the above. If I'm not mistaken, a non-veteran can be reinstated unless they have been off the rolls for 5 or more years, but there is no time limit for a vet. Note: Anyone out there who knows for sure, speak up!)

Follow the link below if you want to access the Postal Service's own regulations on how to gain access to your records. Also, please reply back to the Board and let us know what all is contained in the letter they sent you. (That would be interesting to know and might generate some other strategies for you to consider.)

IN CONCLUSION, THINK IT ALL THROUGH, DO YOUR RESEARCH, AND THEN MAKE YOUR OWN DECISION HOW YOU WILL PROCEED. AND - WHEN YOU DO - SHARE THE FINAL OUTCOME BACK ON THIS BOARD. IT COULD HELP SOMEONE ELSE!

http://www.usps.com/foia/foiarpsr.htm

There must be an ulterior motive for them to deny you based on what your saying. There must be something else in your file, you could file a freedom of information request to see your OPF. But the secret reason could be in your old supervisors, "notes." The contract defines "notes" as a supervisors personal file that they keep on each employee in their office. These so called notes were an issue in my EEO case. According to the contract these notes are not to be shared or left for following supervisors when your supervisor transfers or retires, they are suppose to be destroyed. I doubt that management follows this rule. Since you're a veteran you could take your case to the MSPB, but we haven't had much success with them lately. Another option is to apply for a non-driving position, like custodian or distribution clerk and see if they still deny you.

I was denied by HR. They sent a letter stating that they reviewed my personel,attendance and safety records and "due to my saefty record" they would not reinstate me. I had 1 accident that was not my fault during the 14 years. I wrote to the HR for s.e and central florida as well as sent letters to about 50 local post offices but the local offices all referred me back to HR. I even wrote to the post master general in washington but he said to contact the local HR because he is not involved in the area hiring processes. <shaking head in frustration> my only option is to try and sue for reinstatement if they are denying me due to a single no-fault incident. After 14 years of loyalty you'd think they'd give some extra consideration.

Edited by author 08-09-2007 10:56 PM
2go postal- Who denied you, was it your old supervisor? If so call the HR department at 1-877-477-3273 start with option 5. Don't mention that previous attempt, start with a fresh approach and see what they say. Let me know what happens.

Hi everyone, very interesting site. I have a question....i was a postal employee for 14 yrs in orlando fl. I resigned to take care of my dad and run the family business in '03 when he had heart surgery. When i applied for reinstatement they refused due to my "safety record" which had 1 accident in 14 years with no work time missed because of it. Do i have any legal options to get my job back ? Can i sue ? Anyone have any florida lawyers that specialize in this ? Any help would be appreciated.

Hello! great idea of color of this siyte!

--I am assuming your son is a veteran and veterans have extra job protections. Call human resources at -1-877-477-3273 option 5 and see if they can help. In the mean time he should have a union rep. present any time he talks to management. They might just be bluffing, trying to get him to quit for some other reason. If they don't put the threat in writing thats what they're trying to do.

MY SON WAS JUST ASKED TO RESIGN TODAY FROM PFT CARRIER HE HAS ONLY BEEN ON THE JOB 4 WEEKS WITH HIS ROUTE CHANGED MANY TIMES AND GIVEN MORE AND MORE MAIL. THEY SAID HE WAS NOT FAST ENOUGH.HE NEVER GOT TO LEARN A ROUTE OR HAVE ENOUGH TIME FOR THE EXPERENCE .THEY SAID RESIGN AND APPLY AGAIN OR GET FIRED AND NOT APPLY AGAIN. HE IS A VERY HARD WORKER AND HE REALLY NEEDED THIS JOB .THEY TOLD HIM IN THE BEGINNING HE WAS DOING GREAT THEN BOOM !NOW HE HAS NO JOB NO INSURANCE AS HE QUITE HIS PREVOUS JOB CAN THEY DO THIS ? VERY SAD MOM

Thanks for the info DUCK SOUP but i feel like an idiot for not understanding how to read the pay scale chart..........

"I HATE MY JOB" is transferring from PTF Carrier over to Maintenence and had several questions.

1) Generally speaking, the maintenance craft is perceived as less stressful than the city carrier craft.

2] Assuming you are accepting a voluntary change to a lower-graded position, your current salary should be moved to the lower grade. (Note: Since you are a PTF carrier, use the yearly salary that you would make if you were converted to a regular city carrier. Remember, a PTF's hourly rate is higher than a regular's hourly rate due to the holiday pay factor. And, you need to use yearly salaries to determine where you should be slotted.)

If your current salary (yearly pay if you were a regular) falls between
two steps in the lower grade maintenance position, the salary is set at the higher of the two steps. The salary may not be set below the minimum or above the maximum of the lower grade.

Creditable service in your PTF Carrier position should be maintained toward your next step increase as a maintenance employee, with the following exceptions:

(a) If your salary is increased by at least one most prevalent step in the former grade, a new step waiting period begins on the effective date of the reduction in grade.

(b) If the waiting period time already served equals or exceeds that required to advance to the next step following the reduction in grade, you should be advanced one additional step and a new step waiting period begins on the effective date of the reduction in grade.

So actually, you shouldn't see a real reduction in pay, unless your current salary (salary if you were a regular carrier) is above the maximum of the lower grade. If your current salary is above the maximum of the lower grade, then you should be placed at the maximum of the lower grade (i.e., you should be "topped out" in the maintenance position).

I believe the above is how your pay should be handled, but I suggest you verify for yourself. You'll need the applicable pay charts for the city carrier craft and maintenance crafts. Then look at the postal regulations found at the link below. Use those regulations, in conjunction with your current salary (as if you were a regular) and the salary chart for the lower grade maintenance position, and you should be able to determine exactly where you will be slotted.

http://www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/manuals/elm/h...mc4/elm420_002.html

Don wrote: "I am retired from the US Navy and plan to start with the USPS. Is it true that I would begin employment with 30 days vacation?"

No, you would not begin employment with 30 days of vacation per year. Assuming you are being hired for a career position, your amount of vacation time (i.e., hours of annual leave) will be based on two factors:

1) Whether you are being hired as a full-time employee (i.e., a "regular") or as a part-time flexible employee (i.e., a "PTF").

2) Whether you have prior federal civilian or military service.

Keep in mind that the typical career employee begins as a PTF and becomes regular as vacancies occur. (Sometimes employees are hired as regulars, but that is unlikely for most positions.) While a PTF, an employee is not guaranteed 40 hours of work per week. The hours actually worked will depend on the needs of the employing office, and those needs could vary. In short, PTFs could average less or more than 40 hours per week. However, the employing office should be able to tell a new PTF how many hours they anticipate that he will work.

A PTF earns annual leave each pay period based on the number of hours he works. A regular is "fronted" his annual leave at the beginning of the leave year. Whether a PTF or a regular, the amount of annual leave earned is the same, providing the PTF works 40 hours per week and both employees have the same number of years of credible service. (A PTF working less than 40 hours per week earns annual leave on a pro rata basis.)

Credible service for earning annual leave (for both PTFs and regulars) includes any previous federal or military service. However, a military retiree does not receive full credit unless he meets one of the following three requirements:

1) Retirement was based on disability resulting from injury or disease received in the line of duty as a direct result of armed conflict.

(2) Retirement was based on disability caused by an instrumentality of war and incurred in the line of duty during a period of war defined in 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) 101 and 301.

(3) On November 30, 1964, the employee was employed in a civilian office to which the Annual and Sick Leave Act of 1951 applied and continues to be employed in a civilian capacity without a break in civilian service of more than 30 days.

Nonetheless, a military retiree can qualify for partial credit based on the following:

(1) Service for determining an employee's leave category is restricted to the actual length of time in active service in the armed forces during any war or in any nonwartime campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge was authorized.

(2) Service in a nonwartime campaign or expedition does not entitle the military retiree to credit for the duration of the campaign or expedition but only for the period of service in the campaign or expedition.

A regular employee accrues annual leave (based on his years of credible service) as follows:

Less than 3 years of credible service: 4 hours for each full biweekly pay period; i.e., 104 hours (13 days) per 26-period leave year.

3 years but less than 15 years of credible service: 6 hours for each full biweekly pay period plus 4 hours in last full pay period in calendar year; i.e., 160 hours (20 days) per 26-period leave year.
 
15 years or more of credible service: 8 hours for each full biweekly pay period; i.e., 208 hours (26 days) per 26-period leave year.
 
A PTF accrues the same amounts of annual leave as shown above if he works 40 hours a week. (Otherwise his accrual rate is pro-rated based on the actual number of hours worked per week.) The only difference in a regular and a PTF (who works 40 hours a week) is that the regular is "fronted" his annual leave at the beginning of the year and the PTF "earns as he goes." However, the accrual rate is actually the same if both the regular and the PTF work 40 hours per week.

For example, assume a PTF and a regular are hired at the beginning of the leave year. (Also, assume the PTF will work at least 40 hours per week.) Neither one has any prior federal civilian or military service. The new regular would have 104 hours of annual leave available on his first pay stub. The PTF would have 4 hours of annual leave available on his first pay stub. (Actually, I think the annual leave may not display until after the 90 day probation period is completed, but that's beside the point for this illustration.)

Now assume that neither employee uses any annual leave during that first year of employment. The PTF's annual leave balance would increase by 4 hours each pay period. The regular's annual leave balance would remain the same. At the end of 26 pay periods, both employees would have an annual leave balance of 104 hours. (Remember, we are assuming that neither uses any annual leave in their first year of employment.) In short, even though the regular's leave was "fronted," the actual accrual rate would be the same.

In fact, if the regular used all of his "fronted" 104 hours of annual leave and quit after working 13 pay periods (i.e., only half of the year), he would have 52 hours of pay deducted from his final check. Although "fronted" 104 hours of annual leave, he would have only accrued 52 hours of that 104 at the time he quit. (At that same point in time, the PTF--if he had used no annual leave--would have an annual leave balance of 52 hours.)

So, as shown above, you are joining an organization with a lot of bureaucracy and rules. Things that seem simple are often quite complex. And, often you will not get good answers to your questions, even from the so-called "experts" who should be advising you. I suggest that you become your own "expert" by reading the appropriate postal manuals and other publications. That's what I did and it saved me lots of time, aggravation and money through the years.

Again, there are lots of experienced postal employees who will give you well-meaning advice that will sound true on the surface. But, they are as likely to be wrong as they are to be correct. Check out everything yourself, even if the advice is from me, Duck Soup - who is generally regarded as all-knowing about postal personnel policies!!!

If you cut and paste the below URL in your browser, it will link you to the official postal regulations on annual leave. Those regulations will tell you how much leave you should accrue based on your circumstances. I suggest you figure out what you will accrue prior to your orientation training session. Then, when annual leave is covered, you can ask your instructor what you will accrue. If it doesn't agree with your assessment, you will at least be prepared to ask the appropriate questions.

Since you are a military retiree, you probably have periods of service in campaigns or expeditions that may place you in a higher leave-earning category. However, all of your credible service must be entered properly in the computer for you to receive the appropriate credit. Such service may not be properly credited on your DD-214 (or overlooked by personnel). And sometimes a veteran needs to supply additional documentation so that Personnel has justification for placing them in a higher leave category. After your accrual rate is determined, I also suggest you watch your pay stubs to make sure that you are being credited the correct amount. GOOD LUCK!

http://www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/manuals/elm/h...002.html#vnameref_6

I am retired from the US Navy and plan to start with the USPS. Is it true that I would begin employment with 30 days vacation?

Don

I am a PTF Carrier that will be transfering over to Maintenence...i hate being a Carrier, mainly because of the b.s. management dishes out daily, a toothless union, and a job that seems to be getting worse every year (most of the behind the scenes crap i find out off the internet because the union doesnt tell us nadda)....my question is, most maintenence people aswell as management tell me that maintenence is way better than being a carrier, a big plus is that its less..wayyyyy less stress than being a carrier but that i'll take a pay cut because its a lower grade...i was told i'd be placed in between and i make $19 an hour now and that maintenence is $14 an hour to start, so my hourly rate will be placed inbetween..say $16-$17 an hour to start and id automatically be a regular....ok, long story short since the HR lady really wasnt sure, does anyone have an idea of how much i will be making going from a PTF Carrier at $19 an hour down in grade to Maintenence...and is the stress level of the job virtually non-existant as people tell me? I did my time in the Army and im sick of coming to work as a Carrier six days a week having to fight with management, constantly document harassment and b.s. and file meaningless EEO after EEO and Greivences only to have nothing done and constantly get harassed daily by a gaggle of idiots....

Alfred wrote: "I resigned from the post office last year and have been denied reinstatement. I don't know why and am wondering what I can do. I am 10pt vet.
Thanks for any help."



I resigned in March 1990 and was reinstated in February 2004. I'm also a 10 point Veteran which had no bearing on the reinstatement. I also had never used a day of sick leave or missed a day of work in my previous 5 years before resigning in 1990. Sounds like some information missing here.

Alfred: It's hard to answer your question without more information. However, reinstatement is a different process from initial hiring. Your 10 points aren't applicable for reinstatement, so one option is to take the entrance examination again and get back on the hiring register where your 10 points would count. Also, you may want to ask the person who denied your reinstatement for some feedback. Sometimes they will will tell you. Normally, an individual who has resigned has a good chance to return if he/she was perceived as a "good worker." To postal management that usually means someone who was productive, seldom (if ever) missed worked, didn't have on the job accidents and didn't cause "problems" for management. How were you perceived by your supervisors regarding the above?

I resigned from the post office last year and have been denied reinstatement. I don't know why and am wondering what I can do. I am 10pt vet.
Thanks for any help.

At last...
*

Hej!
Check this out!
*

I work as an electronics tech. at Phila P&DC. I've worked for the post office for 20 years and I have 11 years military. I am rated 30% from the VA. I have recently filed for increased disability from the VA. I have knee and foot problems both service connected. the problem is that the pain in my feet and knees has increased to the point where I am contemplating disability retirement from the post office. I have had 3 surgeries feet/knees in the last 3 years. I missed significant time for these problems but otherwise have a good attendance record. I have minimal sick leave. My question is will I be approved for disability retirement even though I make it to work on a fairly regular basis? Also once I applied could the post office stop me from coming to work while my claim is being processed? I can't afford to be without a paycheck? I am tacking pain killers that are perscribed to me by the VA. I understand that I am not supposed to be working while using this medication. Any thoughts or guidance would be appreciated. Thanks

Edited by author 05-28-2007 10:13 AM
samuel: the question really is "can you repetitively bend, twist, kneel, squat, turn, lift 80 pds", and do it safely? the trays go in strange positions, i.e., away from your body. odd shaped parcels. and all this REPETITIVELY. i am weighing in as an injured clerk after 25 years. it is more difficult than you think. best to you..
Brad: i know john king on the injured on duty board has info you seek. i'm pretty sure.

why do you need to bend for an hour??



************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.

Edited by author 05-25-2007 09:35 AM
I was denied a rural carrier job because my doctor said that he was not sure if i could bend for more than an hour. I know that i can, however i was denied the job. How do i prove my capability for that job before it is to late.

Brad- the FERS disability will not have any effect on your VA disability. You said YOU were attempting to get your VA rating raised. Most vet orgs can do a better job as they know what needs said and how to state it. I've found the DAV worked best for all the vets I know.

 I'm currently filing for a FERS Disability Retirement after working 21 years with The Postal Service, and 3 years military time, which I bought back, making 24+ years goverment service.
 How does a disability retirement affect my V.A. disability benefits if at all?
 My V.A disability is part of the medical reasons for applying for FERS Disability retirement.
 I have 20% total,
 I've requested that my 10% V.A disability on my back be increased.
 I've had the same percentage since 1977.
 Who do I contact?
 Any information will be greatly appreciated....

    Thanks
     Brad Larmee

Hey 10bear, If you just want to get your foot back in the door and don’t really care about how you do it apply for a custodians job. The PO is running an ad in the local newspaper out here looking for veterans to fill custodian vacancies. There are no PTF’s in the custodian craft so you would get your career status back and one year after that you can bid on something else. You could also try asking your question on the, “The Ask a Question,” site on the left hand side of the front page, that’s a popular bulletin board.

WHAT HELP CAN YOU GIVE A POSTAL VETERAN WITH REINSTATEMENT ELIGIBLE THAT RESIGNED FROM THE POSTAL SERVICE AND NOW WANTS TO RETURN TO THE POSTAL SERVICE IN JOB THAT MIGHT BE AVAILABLE.

BigSurge /m258 I am sure you have some posters on this site that have expertise in acquiring medical records from the military, but if you do not get the info you require try this site, there are many knowledgeable veterans posting there. http://p203.ezboard.com/bvetbenefits

I have a question concerning military medicial records? Is there an time limit on them keeping your records? How about getting your complete records sick calls slips, any lab work but they send you just part of your records. I have been trying to get an complete copy but still getting the run around, yes I have a claim in and in my records it will show I went, I followed doctors orders but the problem was never taken serious. Trying to prove it is one thing but what you do not know they take it and use againist veterans.

We got our letters of reassignment this week and the MVS craft in Pasadena, Ca. will be history as of April 27, 2007.
An HCR from San Diego got the contract. As anybody heard of an outfit called Sanchez Trucking or Transport

Edited by author 04-12-2007 03:07 AM
Madman, Go to the, "Injured on duty," forum further up on this list.

  I am a disabled veteran and cannot perform my regular job.I applied to become a custodian and was denied due to a on the job injury.I was not written up nor was i considered at fault.what can i do and are there any organizations that could help?

Thanks Top TTO. It can't hurt to ask for more information. God Bless You......

Ice Queen: If you were in Los Angeles, Ca, I know a good attorney, because it sounds like that is what this person needs. Especially since this individual as already been removed an attorney is advisable, because the PO will be represented by attorney if you peruse this matter, I have been there.
   Try to find any double standard applied to another individual with the same problem that they did not remove; it worked for us many times. You might want to try a, “Request for Information,” of vehicles accidents in your office in the past two years to see what you can find.

Top TTO: I and the V.P. are representing another individual. This person is not a veteran and is no longer working. Holland, MI is the place.
The first accident was last July. This person did improve. But, our station likes to give discipline, not help.

Ice Queen; What does your union rep say? Are you already working on a last chance agreement? If you have already served the fourteen day suspension I don’t think they can punish you a second time for the same offense, especially if it was signed off on by both parties. Don’t have anymore meetings with management without a witness present. What city are you in? You are a veteran right?

Need everyone's help immediately:
Case: Letter of Revoking of Driving Privileges then, a Letter of Removal for May 5th.

Had a rollaway/runaway last August which was reduced to 14 working suspension.

Any help is appreciated if at all.

Thanks in advance.

Can someone help me out? I am being involuntary reassigned within the USPS. I am a Vet Preference Eligible employee. I understand they have to place me in the same level job, but this may require me to move outside of the facility I am working in. There are lower level positions available, but they are requiring me to sign a document waiving my right to the Merit System protection Board. By waiving my Prefernce rights to the sam level into a lower level. Will this effect me for any future Veteran's Preference rights?

Veterans denied VA violation of 1722a claim

Lets assume you are at the VA picking up your prescription. You and the veteran in line in front of you are prescribed the exact same identical prescription of 30 pills. Both supplies carry a copay of $8. Right? But, your prescription requires that you split your supply. You now have a two month supply (15 pills 1/2 pill per day). This $8 supply now increases in copay cost to $16, for the exact pill medication and supply that costs $8. But let's assume that veteran in front of you, having still the same prescription, his supply for a 30-day supply is instead 90 pills. Copay remains at $8 for this 30-day 90 pill supply.

Hope this explains, how the veteran is overcharged by the VA, and just got screwed again by the BVA.

What all veterans have known as fact, is that veterans continue to lose benefits. This is just another example.
=
Criteria & Analysis by the Board of Veterans Appeals.
To briefly understand my claim, “. ...The appellant contends that the standard copayment is excessive in light of the pill splitting.” No where in my claim did I mention the word ‘standard.’ To determine what then is the standard 30 day supply one must compare 2 supplies. The VA apparently has two(2) standard supplies. A 30 day supply of 30-60-90 pills. Copayment cost $8. Then a second standard 30 day supply of 15 pills, $8 copay. Two distinct standards. A standard in cost, but no.... standard in supply.
=
The BVA cites my argument, 38 U.S.C.A. Sec. 1722a “Copayment for medications. Paragraph (2) The Secretary may not require a veteran to pay an amount in excess of the cost to the Secretary for medication as described in paragraph (1).”
=
“(a)(1) Subject to paragraph (2), The Secretary shall require a veteran to pay the United States $8 for each 30-day supply of medication furnished such veteran under this chapter on an outpatient treatment of a non-service connected disability or condition. If the amount supplied is less than a 30-day supply, the amount of the charge may not be reduced. “
=
"In addition, the board notes that the references to the cost of medication contained in USCA 1722a clearly pertains to VA's cost in dispensing the medication, not the cost to the appellant." 1722a, Copayment For Medication, clearly, makes no mention the VA's cost of dispensing medication. It mentions only the veterans' copayment obligation. The "cost in dispensing the medication" is not the argument. It is the cost in overcharges to the veteran.
=
To me it is quite simple. “The Secretary may not require a veteran to pay amount in excess of the cost to the Secretary for medication as described in paragraph (1).” If one supply can be a standard 60, or 90 pill 30 day supply with a copay of $8, how can a 30 day supply of 15 pills at a copay of $8 be standard supply? Therefore, an "excess of the cost" does indeed exist.
=
If given to an eight grade grammar school class this arithmetic problem of the two supplies to find the excess of the cost, what would be their answer? They too, would find that an excess of the cost does exist, “..for medication as described in paragraph (1)”
=
“(b) The Secretary, pursuant to regulations which the Secretary shall prescribe may-...(1) increase the copayment amount in effect under subsection (a);..” "Pursuant to regulations" means according to law, which the Secretary shall follow accordingly, and prescribe. What is being said, judging by the ruling, tscrew the veteran. These are the VA standards, screw the veteran!
=
Citing..“Under 38 C.F.R. Sec. 17.110 Copayments for medications.
(b) Copayments. (1) Unless exempted under paragraph (c) of this section, a veteran is obligated to pay VA a copayment for each 30-day or less supply of medication provided by the VA on an outpatient basis (other than medication administered during treatment).” If ‘administered during treatment’ meant hospitalization, that’s not what it says, or should have been worded. But it did not. It is not ambiguous in the context in which it is presented. Citing, ‘on an outpatient basis, other than medication administered during treatment’ The meaning is quite clear. A patient receiving 60, or 90 day outpatient supply is clearly a treatment of a condition, such as a heart condition, diabetes, etc.
=
BVA mentions, “Thus, it is clear that the VA’s cost of filling the appellant’s 30-day prescription exceeds the $8 copayment under 38 C.F.R. Sec. 17.110.” Again the argument clearly is not the VA cost as noted in the Federal Register 12/6/2001. When determining the medication copay cost, VA factored in everything, except the cost of the medication.
=
BVA denial in part, "...adherence in the face of overwhelming evidence in support of the result in a particular case: such adherence would result in unnecessarily imposing additional burdens on the VA with no benefit flowing to the claimant." Never mind the burden of overcharges to well over 1.1 million veterans whose prescriptions call for pill splitting.
=
It is clear, that with the national budget concerns, of how the BVA came up with this denial. But we can't help that. There are many things in life we do not like, but ignoring a veterans' cause, or the law is not an option. Who lost? Having sat in the lobby of my VA hospital and observed those that passed by, it's not hard to see, there are many who could use any help they can get, as well over 1.1 million other veterans.

As of last week the P.O. could not find any HCR’s to take the Pasadena and Glendale PVS routes, on Friday March 16th they suddenly have four bidders. I guess we will learn our fate soon. One of them is supposedly a newby looking to get his foot in the door. I heard from an inside source it’s a pretty big foot. Most of the HCR’s around here make just enough to get bye, I don’t think Big Foot knows what they’re getting in to? Cc. Motor Vehicle & Vets

Hey Knight 3: I don’t think just putting a gas and brake pedal on the right side is enough is it? What about the steering wheel? Auto driving schools have a brake pedal device that connects from the left side to the right side that is about the only cheap way I know of. It sounds like your situation is not worth it for only one day a week; I am guessing you are a contract letter carrier, right? You can also find used postal vehicles on ebay by using the link on the liteblue web site.

Can anyone help me w/ info on how to convert my vehicle to a rhd or atleast put a brake and gas on passenger side. I only work 1 day a week so I can't afford to buy a different vehicle nor can I afford those exspensive $1700 conversion kits.

Not on paper anyway.

No.

Does a Vet get pref. over a regular postal person in promotion to Supv. ?

nosinglespeed,
You may want to post that question on this site.....http://www.quicktopic.com/37/H/g5XbPDcfrGvBN to try and get an answer. It is a lot more active.

Anyone familiar with RIF Rules? Can a Non Prefernce Postal Employee be placed into a job before a Preference employee?

Re: Getting it raw: What kind of probation are you on? Are you a new hire? If so just hang in there because veterans have special rights in the P.O. They might be trying to make you quit. Just keep coming into work as long as your name is on the schedule.

   document everything thaat happens keep names times,use your resources such as e.a.p. e.e.o. are you a D.A.V.? if so go to the V.A. and ask for counceling trust me you want it on your record

Wondering what rights I have while I'm on probation. I have a supervisor who has repeatedly told me I'm doing great and then gives me an unsat, even got an unsat for being 1 clock tick off from lunch. I feel like I am being picked on when I am ask to do a task I'm told to do it one way and all others are told to do it differently. What the heck do I do?

Update to my Board of Veterans Appeals claim submitted Dec. 29, 2005.

My claim effecting VA prescription over-charges for split pill supplies of well over 1.1 million veterans' remains on the docket as originally scheduled. Illinois Senator Richard Durbin made an appeal on my behalf to advance my case on the docket, because of the “general application” nature of my claim, effecting millions of veterans’. However, the requirement to advance relies on the precise language, “general application effecting other claims’. Because my claim may perhaps be the only claim, the BVA would not budge. Never mind the over-charges for those millions of veterans. For them, and me, these over-charges will continue. During my call to them, I was told the Board is presently working on claims submitted in March 2005.

Don,
What does that mean?
 They offer the test last wed of every month?

I just found out , after many many phone calls, that the last Wednesday of every month they hold a hiring session for eligible vets at the main office. I'll be there next Wednesday!!�A;�A;�A;----- Original Message ----�A;From: QuickTopic daily digest <qtopic+23-9n5m4kr6XVba7@quicktopic.com>�A;To: dmac73000@yahoo.com�A;Sent: Wednesday, January 17, 2007 12:10:53 AM�A;Subject: Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles�A;�A;�A;--QT-------------------------------------------------------------�A; Messages for the topic "Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles" for 01-16-2007.�A; Reply by email or visit�A; http://www.quicktopic.com/23/H/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A; �A;--------------------------------------------------------------- -�A;�A;From: Don Time: 08:39 AM�A;Where do I find current openings? The USPS website only lists�A;RCAS.�A;�A;Don�A;�A;�A;----- Original Message�A;----�A;From: QuickTopic daily digest �A;To:�A;dmac73000@yahoo.com�A;Sent: Tuesday, January 16, 2007 12:09:30�A;AM�A;Subject: Postal Veterans/ Preference�A;Eligibles�A;�A;�A;--QT------------------------------------�A;-------------------------�A; Messages for the topic�A;"Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles" for 01-15-2007.�A; �A;Reply by email or visit�A; �A;http://www.quicktopic.com/23/H/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A; �A;�A;-----------------------------------------------------------�A;---- -�A;�A;From: City Carrier Time: 11:28 PM�A;Don't�A;take RCA unless you just want to get your feet in�A;the�A;door.Always look to move to city carrier or clerk,even�A;Part Time�A;Flexible.�A;RCA has no benefits and is only�A;guaranteed 1 day per week.PTF�A;carriers can pull in big $$$�A;with OT and can go to other offices�A;for time along with full�A;benefits.�A;The way the clerk contract went recently,it looks�A;like the USPS�A;will be hiring alot more casuals.�A;Try and�A;get in now as a casual(no test needed),and you will have�A;a�A;leg up on the competition come interveiw time.�A;�A;I was a�A;10%,got in as a casual with low pay but knew about the�A;USPS�A;come hiring time.�A;Good�A;luck�A;-------------------------------------------------------�A;-----�A;______________________________________________________�A;___________�A;To unsubscribe:�A;http://www.quicktopic.com/23/X/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A;Start your own�A;topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com�A;|QT�A;�A..._______________�A;_____ ___________________�A;The fish are biting. �A;Get more�A;visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search�A;Marketing.�A;http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/arp/spons...----------�A;From: David Time: 09:53 AM�A;Don,�A;Like i said, my office said they rarely post opening because�A;they usually just use the veterans who take the test. So many�A;apply (veterans can apply to take any exam at any one�A;time-providing they are 10% disabled or withing time frame of�A;getting out). Go apply for the exam. They will not post an�A;opening because they will just hire off the pre-existing�A;register.�A;�A;David�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;From: Arkansas PM Time: 01:57 PM�A;I have a question about the Military buy back. I was on active�A;duty from May 1976 - September 1980. If I buy back my military�A;time it will add 2% for each year to my retirement. My question�A;is; is there some place that I can determine how much the buy�A;back is and how much it will add (actual dollar amount) to my�A;retirement so I can decide if it is worth the cost? I don't�A;want to come up with the buy back money only to learn that I�A;will have to live to be 105 to recupe the money.�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;From: City Carrier Time: 06:50 PM�A;Where do I find current openings? ---Do some leg work.Go to�A;every post office you would be willing to work at.Ask for a�A;casual or TRC positions,both are non-carreer lower paying�A;positions but will get you in the door and ready for later.�A;Remember though,if you go in there and mess around you can be�A;let go immediately.Go make an impression and you are a lock when�A;your interveiw comes.�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;_________________________________________________________________�A;To unsubscribe: http://www.quicktopic.com/23/X/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A;Start your own topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com |QT�A;�A;�A; �A;________________________________________________________________ ___________________�A;Have a burning question? �A;Go to www.Answers.yahoo.com and get answers from real people who know.

Edited by author 01-17-2007 12:13 AM
Ar PM - try this
http://www.quantos.com/faq.jsp?group=fbmilitary#2

Where do I find current openings? ---Do some leg work.Go to every post office you would be willing to work at.Ask for a casual or TRC positions,both are non-carreer lower paying positions but will get you in the door and ready for later.
Remember though,if you go in there and mess around you can be let go immediately.Go make an impression and you are a lock when your interveiw comes.

I have a question about the Military buy back. I was on active duty from May 1976 - September 1980. If I buy back my military time it will add 2% for each year to my retirement. My question is; is there some place that I can determine how much the buy back is and how much it will add (actual dollar amount) to my retirement so I can decide if it is worth the cost? I don't want to come up with the buy back money only to learn that I will have to live to be 105 to recupe the money.

Don,
Like i said, my office said they rarely post opening because they usually just use the veterans who take the test. So many apply (veterans can apply to take any exam at any one time-providing they are 10% disabled or withing time frame of getting out). Go apply for the exam. They will not post an opening because they will just hire off the pre-existing register.

David

Where do I find current openings? The USPS website only lists RCAS.�A;�A;Don�A;�A;�A;----- Original Message ----�A;From: QuickTopic daily digest <qtopic+23-9n5m4kr6XVba7@quicktopic.com>�A;To: dmac73000@yahoo.com�A;Sent: Tuesday, January 16, 2007 12:09:30 AM�A;Subject: Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles�A;�A;�A;--QT-------------------------------------------------------------�A; Messages for the topic "Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles" for 01-15-2007.�A; Reply by email or visit�A; http://www.quicktopic.com/23/H/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A; �A;--------------------------------------------------------------- -�A;�A;From: City Carrier Time: 11:28 PM�A;Don't take RCA unless you just want to get your feet in the�A;door.Always look to move to city carrier or clerk,even Part Time�A;Flexible.�A;RCA has no benefits and is only guaranteed 1 day per week.PTF�A;carriers can pull in big $$$ with OT and can go to other offices�A;for time along with full benefits.�A;The way the clerk contract went recently,it looks like the USPS�A;will be hiring alot more casuals.�A;Try and get in now as a casual(no test needed),and you will have�A;a leg up on the competition come interveiw time.�A;�A;I was a 10%,got in as a casual with low pay but knew about the�A;USPS come hiring time.�A;Good luck�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;_________________________________________________________________�A;To unsubscribe: http://www.quicktopic.com/23/X/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A;Start your own topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com |QT�A;�A;�A; �A;________________________________________________________________ ___________________�A;The fish are biting. �A;Get more visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search Marketing.�A;http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/arp/sponsoredsearch_v2.php

Don't take RCA unless you just want to get your feet in the door.Always look to move to city carrier or clerk,even Part Time Flexible.
RCA has no benefits and is only guaranteed 1 day per week.PTF carriers can pull in big $$$ with OT and can go to other offices for time along with full benefits.
The way the clerk contract went recently,it looks like the USPS will be hiring alot more casuals.
Try and get in now as a casual(no test needed),and you will have a leg up on the competition come interveiw time.

I was a 10%,got in as a casual with low pay but knew about the USPS come hiring time.
Good luck

Don,

Thanks for the info. The numbers I gave you are for you to call and schedule to take the 473 exam (hurry up and schedule because I think that they may offer the exam to vets only twice in a year-my office does this-I am scheduled for March). This exam is rarely given and when I signed up to take it with my office they said that they rarely give it to the public because of all the vets that take it (they have so many vets who apply to take the exam that they said they have no need to open it up to the public). The 473 will allow you to get several positions including the part time flexible city carrier. This position pays benefits and I believe you will get more hours, depending on your office. Keep me posted on how things go for you. I am curious if it is hard, how many hours you get, do you have to remeber routes by memory? Any info. you provide will be greatly appreciated. Wish me luck in getting a letter. I took the 460 on November 14th and have not got a letter yet. Wish me luck and keep me posted! Oh, by the way, 10 points is the maximum a veteran can get. I too am 10 points.

David

I scored a 76 on the test (it was tough!) and I recieved 10pt vet status giving me 86. I think I did screw up though in the veteran status. there was three catagories; veteran, disabled vet, and veteran(other) which is if you are a Purple Heart recipient or receive a VA pention, which I do. I don't know what that catagory entitles me to. I took the test on Dec 13 and received a letter from the branch office last week for RCA. What will those numbers you gave me do for me? Will they offer me a permanent position?�A;�A;Don�A;�A;�A;----- Original Message ----�A;From: QuickTopic daily digest <qtopic+23-9n5m4kr6XVba7@quicktopic.com>�A;To: dmac73000@yahoo.com�A;Sent: Sunday, January 14, 2007 12:16:51 AM�A;Subject: Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles�A;�A;�A;--QT-------------------------------------------------------------�A; Messages for the topic "Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles" for 01-13-2007.�A; Reply by email or visit�A; http://www.quicktopic.com/23/H/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A; �A;--------------------------------------------------------------- -�A;�A;From: Don Time: 12:52 AM�A;It took 3 weeks to get a call in letter. I'm in Reading PA. I�A;would like to be a city�A;carrier.�A;�A;Don�A;�A;�A;----- Original Message�A;----�A;From: QuickTopic daily digest �A;To:�A;dmac73000@yahoo.com�A;Sent: Saturday, January 13, 2007�A;12:09:59 AM�A;Subject: Postal Veterans/ Preference�A;Eligibles�A;�A;�A;--QT------------------------------------�A;-------------------------�A; Messages for the topic�A;"Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles" for 01-12-2007.�A; �A;Reply by email or visit�A; �A;http://www.quicktopic.com/23/H/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A; �A;�A;-----------------------------------------------------------�A;---- -�A;�A;From: David Time: 09:18 AM�A;Don,�A;Yes�A;you can request to take any or all postal exams at any�A;one�A;time if you are a veteran who is 10 percent or mpore�A;disabled.�A;Not sure if you found the number to call to do�A;this but if you�A;didn't, I can give it to you. Just let me�A;know where you are at.�A;I just requested to take the 473 in�A;my�A;are.�A;-------------------------------------------------------�A;-----�A;From: David Time: 09:19 AM�A;Dmac,�A;How long�A;did it take from your test date to receive a call in�A;letter?�A;What state are you�A;in?�A;--------------------------------------------------------�A;----�A;_______________________________________________________�A;__________�A;To unsubscribe:�A;http://www.quicktopic.com/23/X/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A;Start your own�A;topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com�A;|QT�A;�A..._______________�A;_____ ___________________�A;Want to start your own�A;business?�A;Learn how on Yahoo! Small�A;Business.�A;http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/r-index�A...----------�A;From: David Time: 06:38 AM�A;Don, I am not sure what district Reading PA falls under but here�A;are the numbers you need to call to schedule an exam using your�A;disability status (1 of these districts should be yours, if not�A;let me know): Harrisburg (District office) 717 257 2173,�A;Lancaster (district Office) 717 390 7468, Philidelphia (District�A;Office). Are you a RCA? Also, you say it took 3 weeks from your�A;TEST DATE to get a call in letter?�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;From: David Time: 11:15 AM�A;Don,�A;I'm sorry I see you and Dmac are the same people. Also, can you�A;tell me what you scored (total points). �A;�A;David�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;_________________________________________________________________�A;To unsubscribe: http://www.quicktopic.com/23/X/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A;Start your own topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com |QT�A;�A;�A; �A;________________________________________________________________ ___________________�A;The fish are biting. �A;Get more visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search Marketing.�A;http://searchmarketing.yahoo.com/arp/sponsoredsearch_v2.php

Don,
I'm sorry I see you and Dmac are the same people. Also, can you tell me what you scored (total points).

David

Edited by author 01-13-2007 07:40 AM
Don, I am not sure what district Reading PA falls under but here are the numbers you need to call to schedule an exam using your disability status (1 of these districts should be yours, if not let me know): Harrisburg (District office) 717 257 2173, Lancaster (district Office) 717 390 7468, Philidelphia (District Office). Are you a RCA? Also, you say it took 3 weeks from your TEST DATE to get a call in letter?

It took 3 weeks to get a call in letter. I'm in Reading PA. I would like to be a city carrier.�A;�A;Don�A;�A;�A;----- Original Message ----�A;From: QuickTopic daily digest <qtopic+23-9n5m4kr6XVba7@quicktopic.com>�A;To: dmac73000@yahoo.com�A;Sent: Saturday, January 13, 2007 12:09:59 AM�A;Subject: Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles�A;�A;�A;--QT-------------------------------------------------------------�A; Messages for the topic "Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles" for 01-12-2007.�A; Reply by email or visit�A; http://www.quicktopic.com/23/H/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A; �A;--------------------------------------------------------------- -�A;�A;From: David Time: 09:18 AM�A;Don,�A;Yes you can request to take any or all postal exams at any one�A;time if you are a veteran who is 10 percent or mpore disabled.�A;Not sure if you found the number to call to do this but if you�A;didn't, I can give it to you. Just let me know where you are at.�A;I just requested to take the 473 in my are.�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;From: David Time: 09:19 AM�A;Dmac,�A;How long did it take from your test date to receive a call in�A;letter? What state are you in?�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;_________________________________________________________________�A;To unsubscribe: http://www.quicktopic.com/23/X/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A;Start your own topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com |QT�A;�A;�A; �A;________________________________________________________________ ___________________�A;Want to start your own business?�A;Learn how on Yahoo! Small Business.�A;http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/r-index

Dmac,
How long did it take from your test date to receive a call in letter? What state are you in?

Don,
Yes you can request to take any or all postal exams at any one time if you are a veteran who is 10 percent or mpore disabled. Not sure if you found the number to call to do this but if you didn't, I can give it to you. Just let me know where you are at. I just requested to take the 473 in my are.

No

I finally got called for RCA. They say I have to hold the position for one year before I can bid for a regular F/T position. My question is that I am a veteran with 30% VA disability, Can I use that to boost my chances of getting a F/T position?

Don

I am currently employed with USPS as a Level 5 Full Time Clerk. I have Veteran's Preference due to a 30% combat related injury. I understand I can be Excessed, but can I be placed into a lower level job such as a level 4 mail handler position?

Here is a veteran with a great story that all postal employees should read. Great reviews by postal people.

http://deepinsideliteblue.com/

Darron Eldridge if you have a rating for 20 years or more it can not be lowered or taken away for any reason except death.

i get a non-sevvice connect pension and i work three day this year. Can my pension be stopped.

smokey - that is strange as after 35 years at 10% the DAV in Cleve took me to 20%, then 40% in less than 18 months. All I did was ask if I qualified for VA prescriptions and they got the ball rolling.

   Do not use the D.A.V. they suck at Disability claims the Cleveland office is horrible.

USAF retiree here with eight years as a clerk in USPS. Disabled Iraq war USA veteran son hired on. Required to work 84 hours a week as PTF, misses work for PTSD while still on probation. Has abdominal pain rushed to VA hospital and diagnosed as having stage 4 colon cancer at age 23. Misses more work while in hospital and taking chemo. Kept from returning to work for six days by management and when finally allowed promptly fired. Union hands tied due to contract. VA, DAV, Congressman unable to unable to get his job back. We work for some pieces of work here in the USPS. At least they didn't work him 12 hours on Christmas and then fire him. Lost medical insurance so its back to the VA's tender mercy. Wants to work, able to work but not allowed. No justice.

postboy - I suggest representation by the DAV to open a claim with the VA. Unless you have a military disability (even a 0 % rating) it will be difficult to get a VA pension, but help is not unheard of.The DAV will be your best source of accurate info. As for the test for vets someone asked- any one receiving compensation from the military or VA can ask to take the test one time and be on the next scheduled exam in the area. Recently discharged vets have a much shorter time limit, 90 days I believe- but verify that through the DAV also.

Don /m209 Keep your msg legible. Clean up all the extraneous symbols.

You can only get a VA pension if the injury was military service connected.�A;�A;�A;----- Original Message ----�A;From: QuickTopic daily digest <qtopic+23-9n5m4kr6XVba7@quicktopic.com>�A;To: dmac73000@yahoo.com�A;Sent: Friday, December 1, 2006 12:11:54 AM�A;Subject: Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles�A;�A;�A;--QT-------------------------------------------------------------�A; Messages for the topic "Postal Veterans/ Preference Eligibles" for 11-30-2006.�A; Reply by email or visit�A; http://www.quicktopic.com/23/H/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A; �A;--------------------------------------------------------------- -�A;�A;From: postboy Time: 12:45 PM�A;I have been put on permanent restrictions at work due to my�A;injuries sustained at work. I cant carry mail anymore so they�A;will try to place me in a peramanent job within my restrictions�A;or send me to vocational rehab program. If I opt to take�A;disability retirement instead and Im a veteran is there some�A;kind of pension or something I can get from VA to go along with�A;my disability retirement payments?�A;------------------------------------------------------------�A;_________________________________________________________________�A;To unsubscribe: http://www.quicktopic.com/23/X/9n5m4kr6XVba7�A;Start your own topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com |QT�A;�A;�A; �A;________________________________________________________________ ___________________�A;Want to start your own business?�A;Learn how on Yahoo! Small Business.�A;http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/r-index

I have been put on permanent restrictions at work due to my injuries sustained at work. I cant carry mail anymore so they will try to place me in a peramanent job within my restrictions or send me to vocational rehab program. If I opt to take disability retirement instead and Im a veteran is there some kind of pension or something I can get from VA to go along with my disability retirement payments?

Don /m205 Message /m180 addresses some of your question. See if you can get the HR phone number in your area.

You have to take it within a certain length of time after you are out of the service, like 6 months, a year, something like that, sorry I cant' remember the specific length of time.

Is it true that the USPS gives exams to vets only sometimes and not open to the general public? I am retired US Navy with a 30% VA disability rating. I want to be a mail carrier.

Don

The MSPB consists of a three-member panel of President Bush appointees. You can click on the Veterans Rights link on the front page of this site. Look on the left side under the, “Site Features,” column. When you get there, you can research the board’s recent decisions and decide for yourself. Because I don’t know the details of your case, I would go to arbitration with your union rep and an attorney. Attorneys are expensive but your job is worth it.

MSPB or arbitration? I'm a preference eligible that has received a letter of removal. I've been reading online that MSPB has a 20% to 25% chance of success for the employee. That doesn't sound good. Arbitration has a 35% to 50% chance of success depending on the arbitrator. In my case the evidence leans mostly in my favor but I'm not sure how that will play out in MSPB. I've heard that AJ's tend to be pro agency. Anyone have any experience which one is better?

  I am a D.A.V. and am on light duty due to an on the job injury,I can perform most jobs at the Post Office without restrictions.I was recently turned down by maintenence for a Custodial job because of an I.O.D.and am worried about being put out of the Postal Service on the new O.W.C.P.rules any adive would be great.

"Post - To" company is reputable international leader in the sphere of finance and digital marketing due to an expansion in the market place is seeking a official representative agent in your region.

As part of the corporate operations team you will be:
- Building relationships of administrative contacts with existing and new corporate
clients.
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- Making basic financial reports
To be part of this progressive company you will have

- Basic skills of business communication
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- Basic skills as an Internet user
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If you would like to know more of this job and try to work with us
please send us an email to:
vacancy@post-to.us with your contact information.

Does any veteran service orginzations help with job issues at the Post Office for Disabled Vets?

Naive

My son in law is a Marine recruiter. Leave your name and address, always looking for good people to represent their country. If you dont want to be in harms way, be a Medic. I was.

BigSurge /m197 Try this link. http://p203.ezboard.com/bvetbenefits

Many of the veterans at this site have worked with the VA system, they are very knowledgeble with the workings of the VA. Go to this site and state your questions and I feel someone will point you on the right path to get things resolved. Hope this helps.

I must say it hurts the way veteran are treated. I am fighting because of lack of communcation. Alot of veterans do not know about filling an case if hurt in the military. They do not know they can go back if still in pain. The government just does not want to help us, we have too many on the streets with no help or a home. We will have even more coming back home still with no help. They are coming home sick and in need of some help but our dear President is just taking care of himself and the others sitting on enough money that there kids and grandkids will be taken care of. What about our kids we served but no justice, nothing but a paper to help get a house. Sorry just had to vent, because some other soldier told me to just fill it out but did not tell me the correct thing to do. How many more will have to suffer go through just to get the help needed.

YouThinkImNaive /m191 -- "one has to wonder, though, about the lack of limitations on the salary and compensation to corporate executives in companies that receive multi-million dollar tax breaks each year. I wonder who really believes that this money trickles down to the middle and lower economic classes, and why they don't see that the compensation these executives receive must be controlled if the government of the people is to give them financial aid...there must be a strict contract, not a wink and a handshake. I guess that's part of being a republican/conservative, believing in myths like that."

I don't know if you are naive, but I know that you are NOT a republican/conservative if you believe in government control on salaries.

Edited by author 07-31-2006 07:12 PM
Naive, if you are of age, you can always join the service and get your vets preference. Wait till the war is over, then join. Heck, it's easy to serve then. In fact, its so easy, according to you, that you shouldn't even be considered a vet!! Hurry, before they close this obvious loophole! I agree! It's a piece of cake! It didn't bother me at all to work 16 hours a day, 7 days a week at sea. Working on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier, which is considered one of the ten most dangerous jobs...well, no big deal right? (They did a special on the discovery channel, history channel, or A & E, I don't recall which, and working on the flight deck was among the top 10. Heck we got hazardous duty pay for it, something like $54 a month back then. You know, big bucks to risk your life!!) Spending Christmas of 1979 off the coast of Iran and other holidays away from my family was a piece of cake!! NO SACRIFICE whatsoever!! After all, like you say, I wasn't in the direct line of fire! The fact that I have serious hearing damage in both of my ears from sleeping right underneath the flightdeck, and being exposed to the loudest noise you can't even imagine, well, now that I think about it, your right, I'm not a real vet!! Thank you for setting me straight!

oh, by the way. I'm not sure why you are complaining about a vet who was not in the line of fire getting a preference over you. They DON'T get a preference over you! That's right, only vets who served during certain periods when there was a conflict, war, whatever, are entitled to having an extra 5 points tacked onto their score. Or, if they were involved in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized, such as El Salvador, Lebanon, Granada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia, and Haiti. I have two Navy Expeditionary medals, so that qualifies me for the 5 points. I also have two Humanitarian Service medals, etc. I get an extra 5 points due to my disability in hearing and I cracked my jaw working on the flight deck. I almost lost my life that night. I believe an extra 10 points on a civil service test is NOT too much for my country to do for me. Go to this website here http://www.opm.gov/veterans/html/vetsinfo.asp#Word Scroll down to: Who Is Entitled To Veterans’ Preference In Employment? You'll see exactly what I'm talking about.

To YouThinkImNaive,

Steady guy... Get back to the VA and get your meds.

Naive -- So, you were a Casual and your term ended. What does that have to do with Veterans? Casuals do not automatically convert to Career employees and the time you can work as a Casual is limited. Again, what does this have to do with Veterans? If you think you were denied equal opportunity, file an EEO. Also, you fail to explain what makes you "someone more qualified". Also, if you're 35 or younger, it's not too late for you to become a Veteran. You won't get to live with your parents but you will have roommates (about 40 in the old-style barracks). A single solution to all your problems. Think about it.

That's all they get, is a few points added on to their test score. That's it. Doesn't seem like too much to do for them.

I believe that the government should take care of the veterans who served its interest, but I do not believe that the reward should come in the form of job preference over someone more qualified--rather, it should come in the form of monetary reward. None of us who did not serve, for whatever reason, should be penalized because of the poor decisions US administrations have made in choosing to make unnecessary war and having too many military personnel that aren't paid well enough. Many veterans are probably aware of the lack of care and reward that has been the case for more than a few veterans. Some are screaming for help at the top of their lungs while their "brothers and sisters" in arms say nothing because they think they should have to take the pain, the abuse, or risk seeming unpatriotic. Why do we doubt, for a second, that it is the government, who collectively by negligence or by malice is the one who has been unpatriotic in its behavior toward veterans? The veterans in my family have not voiced to me any complaints, but sadly I have not heard of any struggles on their part for their fellow "brothers and sisters."

I am glad that I had the opportunity to work for the postal service, but I can say that in my area, casual employment does not pay a living wage unless one lives with one's parents, five roommates, or receive some other benefits checks that make up the difference.

I am willing to pay extra taxes if I knew that every cent would go to providing more pecuniary compensation to former military who fought in battle and fought with good conscience matching my own. However, I do not see how those who were *not* in the line of fire (but still considered veterans) should be given special treatment over any other equivalent civilian employee.

I am not willing to give up my job or my proper opportunity for employment just because the government is slacking off and needs a kick in the ass. There must be full and complete compensation for vets, yes. But there must be a limit to it, a set amount that makes things right, without putting other people back on the street, essentially.

As a side note: one has to wonder, though, about the lack of limitations on the salary and compensation to corporate executives in companies that receive multi-million dollar tax breaks each year. I wonder who really believes that this money trickles down to the middle and lower economic classes, and why they don't see that the compensation these executives receive must be controlled if the government of the people is to give them financial aid...there must be a strict contract, not a wink and a handshake. I guess that's part of being a republican/conservative, believing in myths like that. Somehow they believe that if you're not making money, you obviously didn't deserve to be making it, and if you are making it you must deserve to be making it, unless proven otherwise. They must believe, though perhaps not admit to it, that what I call a sensible person would call "exploitation" or "cheating," "They" would simply call "good business sense" and/or "good business strategy."

Have any of you submitted a letter to the State Senator, Diane Feinstien yet? I hear a lot of talking and complaining about what you've gone through at the hands of the USPS and it's administration. I know how you feel ,I've gone through a lot abuse also since filing an EEO. You have to be willing to go an extra mile and bring this to the attention to the general public. Keeping these problems among ourselves will not help us in the long run. And you know what? The USPS is completely satisfied with us keeping this info amongst ourselves. Yes, I've talked about Steve Millard and the adverse actions the USPS has taken to him, but he's not the only one. Again I say there are hundreds of us. I've written a letter to State Senator Diane Feinstein, and I told her about my case as well as Steve Millard. I wish you all could do the same. No Fear Here!

I know Steve Millard he is a good man. We are close to a congressional investigation. Lets keep giving letters through lowe@kfwb.cbs.com

Am looking for anyone who might have info relating to PTSD (sexual assault) through the VA. I have had my claim denied and need help.
kaylie_ecker@yahoo.com

THE MANAGEMENT at the U.S.POSTAL SERVICE are ABOVE THE LAW. They've
been abusing their authority for years. They abuse and deny employees due process of the law. MANANAGEMENT breaks the law without having to face any kind of disciplinary action which encourages them to continue their abuse, intimidation, wreckless negligence, and illegal practices. I encourage all Postal employees to get together and seek assistance from our Senator Diane Feinstein, Chairperson for the Postal Senate Subcommittee, or other Senators
to address the ongoing abuses.

Edited by author 07-02-2006 04:26 PM
7//2/2006 Chicago Tribune. Drug Already in Pipline VA Aide Says. Jon Yates Staff reporter.

Harold Lavie completed chemotherapy for prostate cancer May 26....getting the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in North Chicago to approve his prescription for Casodex, a popular cancer drug he had used with success in the past...languished in VA red tape for weeks....he went to his local Walmart, intent on paying for the medicine...he was told the drugs cost $440.00 for 30 pills...They're wonderful at the VA usually, but this has been a fiasco...he called the pharmacy every day to see if the drug has been approved....Every day, they say it's not. The Problem Solver [Chgo Tribune] called the VA spokesperson after getting Llevie's e-mail. The next morning, Levie's doctor called him and said the medicine had been approved.

He got a call from a VA representative after the Casodex was approved...promised to..try to avoid similar problem in the future. Some days, he said, when he called the VA looking for help, no one answered the phone.

Hello,

I am doing a research paper about veteran administration. I already have information on its history, mission, objectives, values, types of services, and its eligibility criteria.

The problem is I still do not have the following information and I do not have any idea 'bout 'em. Please help me.

a. Length of service periods

b. credentials of service providers

c. consumer population served

d. applicable federal legislation impacting service provision.

I would appreciate any information that you will share with this categories. Thank you so much! :-)

CAP America, I agree this is our chance to bring everything done in the dark to light. its the people/Supervisors with authority that abuse, and make the USPS an awful place to work. lets work together to get Ten thousand names and stop the cycle. Also send a copy to Senator Diane Feinstein, One Post Street, San Francisco CA 94104

I agree with tired of abuse, it's a election year people, write or call those people we elect, 10,00 or 20.00 e-mails, letters or calls believe me will be heard. take your story ( we all have one ) to them and lowe@kfwb.cbs.com

Alimony award of disability question settled.

It has been indicated that Michigan 19th District Circuit Court Judge James M. Batzer has, because of the United States Supreme Court veterans' disability benefits, child support ruling in Rose v. Rose, he was re-thinking his Murphy v. Murphy court order (1/4/06) “..concluding that it could not consider the Veterans’ Administration (VA) [disability] benefits of the defendant”. While doing research, discovered something that was right there all the time, specifically 38 USC 5301. Contrary to the conclusion reached in Rose v. Rose by the U.S. Supreme Court (1987) in the question of congressional intent. Here are just three references to Congress' intent, as determined by the United States Supreme Court in arguing Rose v. Rose.

(1.) (d) Provisions of the Child Support Enforcement Act, which provide that moneys payable by the Government to any individual are subject to child support enforcement proceedings (42 U.S.C. 659(a)), but which specifically exclude VA disability benefits, do not establish a congressional intent to exempt such benefits from legal process. "....

(2.) On the rare occasion when state family law has come into conflict with a federal statute, this Court has limited review under the Supremacy Clause to a determination whether Congress has `positively required by direct enactment' that state law be pre-empted.

(3.)we conclude that Congress would surely have been more explicit had it intended the Administrator's apportionment power to displace a state court's power to enforce an order of child support.

The State of Tennessee in following up on the United States Supreme Court's Rose v. Rose ruling, the following 2 paragraphs of veterans' benefits references are 'notes based on decisions', having been included in Tennessee Title 36, Domestic Relations. To clarify the understanding of veterans benefits decisions in divorce actions, according to the ruling in Rose v. Rose.

44. - Veterans' Benefits.
There is no indication that congress intended the veterans' administration to make child support determinations contrary to the determinations of state courts. The interest in uniform administration of veterans' benefits focuses, instead, on the technical interpretations of the statutes granting entitlements, particularly on the definitions and degrees of recognized disabilities and the application of the graduated benefits schedules. Rose v. Rose, 481 U.S. 619, 107 S. Ct. 2029, 95 L. Ed. 2d 599 (1987).

An exception to the federal prohibition against attachment, levy, or seizure of veterans' benefits would not undermine the federal purpose in providing these benefits. Therefore,...we conclude 3101(a) [5307]does not extend to protect a veteran's disability benefits from seizure where the veteran invokes that provision to avoid an otherwise valid order of child support. Rose v. Rose, 481 U.S. 619, 107 S. Ct. 2029, 95 L. Ed. 2d 599 (1987).

Some Code references (internet) mentioned in the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, as well as other Code references were indicated incorrectly, perhaps purposely, due to typo, or confusion. I have bracketed the correct Code number. For example, from Rose v. Rose, (c) State-court jurisdiction is not pre-empted by 38 U.S.C. 3101(a) [5301], which provides that veterans' benefits payments made to, or on account of, a beneficiary, shall not be liable to attachment, levy, or seizure. 38 USC 3101 refers to CHAPTER 31--TRAINING AND REHABILITATION FOR VETERANS WITH SERVICE- CONNECTED DISABILITIES Sec. 3101. Definitions.,

Section 5301 is explicit, as to Congress' intent, and does appear to protect veterans' disability benefits. "Nonassignability and exempt status of benefits (a) Payments of benefits due or to become due under any law administered by the Secretary shall not be assignable except to the extent specifically authorized by law, and such payments made to, or on account of, a beneficiary shall be exempt from taxation, shall be exempt from the claim of creditors, and shall not be liable to attachment, levy, or seizure by or under any legal or equitable process whatever, either before or after receipt by the beneficiary. The preceding sentence shall not apply to claims of the United States arising under such laws nor..."

Under 38 USC 5301 Congress indicates that the Supremacy Clause does indeed apply. By reference to the paragraph, sentence, and reading of, "The preceding sentence shall not apply to claims of the United States..." If benefits that are not assignable, shall be exempt, from seizure, etc., shall not apply to claims of the United States under such laws, who's claims, other than the United States are they referring to?

Yes, 5301 says the United States can claim owed taxes, and debts from the veteran, this is the exception. But Congress had written this as law for someone other than the United States, explaining, except for the United States, this law applies. And the question is, applies to who? Clearly, the States, and anybody else. 5301 refers to State actions that are not authorized by Congress, This... was the intent of Congress!

This is something which has been argued by veterans' all along. But in nearly every case it has been ruled against. Why? Because the paragraph can be deceiving. In a quick reading of the paragraph, it is glanced over, focusing mainly on non-assignability, exempt, etc. To be used by veterans’ in court to fight over. Nothing else was needed. Except... the last sentence! Because of the United States Supreme Court's ruling hinged on the reference of the "intent of Congress" in Rose V. Rose, finally, the U.S. Supreme Court has made clear to state courts this intent. That payments, administered by the Secretary to the veteran shall not be assignable, except to the extent specifically authorized by law, are exempt from attachment, or seizure, under any legal or equitable process. This is no longer an argument veterans have to fight over.

In Rose v. Rose, the Supreme Court, relying on United States statutes, used words, such as, “we are not persuaded”. Tennessee's statutes suggesting "there is no indication.." In other words an opinion... left open to interpretation. But nothing to “indicate unequivocally” that a veteran's disability benefits are not provided solely for that veteran's support....until now. As you see, 5301 provides the criteria, and the proof that Congress had specifically provided that veterans' disability compensation is exempt.

When the U.S. Supreme Court argued Rose v. Rose, they got it wrong. How wrong? 5301 was not even mentioned in Rose v. Rose, and strangely left out of the brief for the United States in the Amicus Curiae supporting appellant. However, it doesn't make any difference, as 5301 is, and has been the intent of Congress. Tennessee, in arguing, conveniently left out 5301. Which included, "The preceding sentence shall not apply to claims of the United States..." The only thing that can be done in future cases is to bring up, and argue strongly, and correctly 5301, and against the Supreme Court's and Tennessee' version of Rose v. Rose. We must remind those with whom we argue, it was the United States Supreme Court... in Rose v. Rose that brought up "the intent of Congress". 38 USC 5301 is the law of the land, therefore... the intent of Congress.

Does the court look at these laws independently, or rather argue on the basis of what both sides give them? The answer,.... it's unbelievable, and inconceivable how 38 USC 5301 was not even thought of, or considered by the United States Supreme Court. From the book, "The Brethren" Inside the Supreme Court, by Bob Woodward, Scott Armstrong. These are references to the research work done by the U.S. Supreme Court law clerks, "...basis for yet another draft, and he quickly sent his senior and most trusted law clerk back to work."......"he assigned a law clerk to prepare a detailed research memorandum on the pertinent law"....."his research indicated that they had the power to set forth any remedy they desired necessary".."had his clerk's massive research memorandum printed and presented." I ask, why was 38 USC 5301 ignored, left out? Veterans' can only speculate as to the many reasons.

1986 U.S. Supreme Court majority opinion, which holds true today, concluded using the words of Justice Brandeis, commenting on the presumption of stability in statutory interpretation..."Stare decisis is usually wise policy, because in most matters it is more important that the applicable rule of law be settled than that it be settled right." Charlie Wayne Rose a Vietnam veteran, blind in one eye, a triple amputee, unfortunately, and sadly, lost this case, because, "..it is more important that the applicable rule of law be settled than that it be settled right."

Court of Appeals of the State of Oregon. 2/10/05. Karen M. Landis v. James E. Landis. DR 0203154,A123666. "In McCarty v. McCarty...the United States Supreme Court held that military retirement pay was not divisible according to state community property laws, because such division would harm a clear and substantial federal interest in securing veterans' financial secutiry. Recognizing the adverse implications of the decision for many veterans' spouses, the Court wrote, "Congress may well decide, as it has in the Civil Service and Foreign Service contexts, that more protection should be afforded a former spouse of a retired service member. This decision, however, is for Congress alone."

Now, we have the ammunition, to fight these state judges and their awarding of veterans' disability compensation as part of any divorce decree. This is now every veterans’ argument. We did not bring up “intent“. The United States Supreme Court in arguing Rose v. Rose, looking for the "intent of Congress" brought it up. Finally explaining definitively for veterans’ once and for all, what was missing. They gave it to us. 38 USC 5301,...it was there all the time. And all the time the U.S. Supreme Court claiming, "we are not persuaded", and Tennessee suggesting "there is no indication".

Hey everybody...check out the forum EEO issues message 358. We have an opportunity to get a congressional investigation into the abuse of postal employees. E-mail your story of abuse to lowe@kfwb.cbs.com. I mailed mine. It can be anonymous if you like. Let's send them 10 thousand letters of abuse.

i retired from the AF 11 months agao. I wasnever informed that I could take the postal exam in the first 6 months without one even being scheduled. My question is, Is there a loophole that will allow me to take the exam now? I don't think I could squeak by the carrier physical, as I am 40% disabled for knees and back.. I would be perfectly happy with a maintenace, messenger or even janitorial position. Any help, especially if you could quate a regulation. Thanks in advance for your help.

 Any disabled veteran who has received a call in notice from the USPS and has submitted their medical records at the interview or before. This is a direct violation of the ADA. Any disabled veteran who has received a call in notice since 1992 should contact one of our attorneys James Allen at jallen@neceallen.com or 706-650-7002 to join in the class. Any veteran who knows a veteran who has applied with the USPS please pass the word along. Thank You.

35 Years and Retired - things have changed concerning medical programs at the VA IF you qualify. I know 2 guys that are cancer survivors due to the VA after private docs gave up and another that had 5 good years after the private sector gave him 3 months. Agent Orange was what brought it on. Check the DAV website and see the news on dibetes-- AO causes it too. I have my private sector doctors and find the VA doctors very keen on sending me to specialists on many things! If I had to choose between the two-- the VA would win.

35 Years and Retired -- Speaking of Postmaster qualifications, you make the cut since you clearly can't read. The article and my comments refer to the STATE EMPLOYMENT OFFICE, NOT the VA. FYI: Since you're retired and have the time, watching Sesame Street regularly would be a great starting point in your quest for literacy.

Sitting on your ass asking questions and ignoring answers while being a complete asshole must have gotten you a Postmaster's position. The last place I would visit for employment or medical help would be the VA.

It looks like things haven't changed much in the last 35 years. When I got out and went to the unemployment office they asked me what I thought I could do for employment. I told them about the training (electronics, communications equipment) I had received and the experience I had in repairing electronic equipment. The butt-monkey doing the interview listened and then said, "That's nice, but what can you DO?" "Well", I said, "I can sit on my ass all day asking questions and ignoring the answers while being a complete asshole. Do you have any job openings here?". I'm still waiting to hear from them. I moved on and found a job without their "help".

3/26/2006 CHICAGO SUN-TIMES SPECIAL REPORT
STATE OF SHAME By Cheryl l. Reed
WHERE ARE ALL THE JOBS? "Recruiting ads touting the job training benefits of a stint in the military are proving to be overly optimistic as returning veterans across the country find jobs commensurate with their experience less than plentiful. In Illinois, the prospects are even more bleak....In Illinois, which gets $6.5 billion a year from the federal government to help veterans find work, 34 percent of unemployed vets who sought help from the Illinois Department of Employment Security found jobs last year, according to the U.S. Labor department, which ranks Illinois as the worst state in the nation for getting jobs for vets....Indiana ranked near the top for helping vets jobs....From the Front Line to the Unemployment Line."

I encourage all veterans, if it’s possible, to get involved in these illegal veterans’ disability compensation alimony award cases in your state. As in the Michigan (and Georgia) case, there are laws on the books in every state, as I have found out, that could possibly turn these abusive, and illegal awards around. Your job would be to find them, via the internet search. You will be surprised by what you may find. State laws that support the veteran, and run contrary to a judges ruling. Keep in mind, using a veterans disability compensation in alimony awards is illegal. Title 38 USC 5301, Chapter 53. Nonassignability and exempt status of benefits.

All you have to do is research the internet. Yes, it may seem like a lot of work, but remember why you are doing it. The United States government is not protecting veterans’ in state courts. We have to do it. You can do it! There may, and there's a good bet, there will always be just that one state law, statute, or legal reference, that you will find, and this is all you need to turn around a contempt order against you, or another veteran, and doing possible jail time. But, once you have found this one law, it's state statute, legal reference, write the judge, then publicize your finding by including his name, and the law, on the internet.

With your help, veterans can win these phony, illegal state veterans disability compensation alimony awards by abusive state court judges. It's your turn to fight back!

35 years and retired - agreed, but thed doctors should be able to weed some of those out. Anyone with a rating for 20 or more years cannot have it reduced or eliminated. More & more vets, without congess allocating enough funds. All in All, those receiving care in many places are receiving a much higher quality of care.

The cut backs started in about 2002, or 2003. It started with the GI Bill for Vietnam Era Vets with cutting the educational assistance if you don't use it within 10 years. The system has been abused by vets whose disability claims for a "bad back" from picking up cigarette butts at Camp Swampy has drained the coffers. Many needy and deserving vets suffer while deadbeats and leeches suck the system dry.

Grady Fitzgerald - No long $7, scripts are now $8. Also, all vets are catagorized. Those in the lowest catagories are out of luck for any care or help.

free if the illness/injury is service connected.

So this basically amounts to free medical insurance for veterans? I always thought the care had something to do with problems associated with military service. Just didn't know, thanks.

Veterans with service connected disabilities get free medical for that injury/illness. Veterans with health issues that are not service connected can go to the VA. However, there is a means test and if you have medical coverage they bill your provider and you have a co-pay. Currently the co-pay is $15.00 per visit and $7 for generic prescriptions.

I admit I don't understand eligibility for VA health care. Were all of these people wounded or injured on duty?

The proposed cuts in veterans health care benefits in 2008 is typical of most Republican administrations. When there is a war to fight they are quick to wrap the flag around our vets and send them off to battle then when it comes time to provide health care to the wounded. They are quick to through them under the train. Have we learned anything?

Dayum shame

Veterans May Face Health Care Cuts in 2008

At least tens of thousands of veterans with non-critical medical issues could suffer delayed or even denied care in coming years to enable President Bush to meet his promise of cutting the deficit in half _ if the White House is serious about its proposed budget. After an increase for next year, the Bush budget would turn current trends on their head. Even though the cost of providing medical care to veterans has been growing by leaps and bounds, White House budget documents assume a cutback in 2008 and further cuts thereafter.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/conte.../27/AR2006022700976