What is Navy Tuition Assistance (TA)?
Navy TA is a program that pays for tuition costs for voluntary, off-duty education courses pursued by active-duty Sailors to help advance their civilian education.
What is the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)?
TSP is a retirement savings and investment plan for federal employees and military members, similar to a 401(k).
When was VFA‑115 established?
October 10, 1942
What does CMEO stand for?
Command Managed Equal Opportunity
What is the purpose of the Command Financial Specialist (CFS) Program?
The CFS Program is designed to provide financial education, training, and counseling to Sailors at the command level. It promotes financial readiness and helps Sailors make informed decisions about personal finances.
What education levels does TA support?
Associate’s
Bachelor’s
Master’s degrees
Who is eligible for the TSP in the Navy?
All active duty and Reserve Sailors are eligible. Enrollment is automatic for BRS (Blended Retirement System).
What was the squadron originally designed as?
VT-11 (Torpedo Squadron 11)
What is the goal of the CMEO program?
To ensure that all Sailors and civilians work in an environment free of unlawful discrimination and harassment and to foster equal opportunity and mission readiness.
Who can serve as a CFS?
E-6 and above personnel in good standing (no NJPs or performance issues), recommended by their commanding officer, can serve as a CFS. They must complete the required CFS training course.
How do Sailors apply for Tuition Assistance?
Through the MyNavy Education Portal at https://myeducation.navy.mil:
Complete required training
Submit an education plan from an accredited institution
Request TA funding at least 14 days before the course start date
How do Sailors under the Blended Retirement System (BRS) use TSP?
Automatic 1% government contribution (whether you contribute or not)
Matching up to an additional 4% if you contribute at least 5%
Fully vested in matching funds after 2 years of service
Who originally designed the squadron's insignia?
Walt Disney
What types of behaviors fall under CMEO concerns?
Discrimination
Harassment (including sexual harassment)
Hazing
Bullying
Retaliation or reprisal for reporting incidents
What instruction governs the CFS Program?
OPNAVINST 1740.5D (or most recent version) outlines the policies and procedures for the Navy’s Personal Financial Management (PFM) Program, including CFS responsibilities.
Who is eligible for Navy TA?
Active-duty enlisted and officer Sailors who have:
Completed two years of active duty (waivers may apply in some cases)
No pending disciplinary actions
Passed the most recent physical fitness assessment (PFA)
Have no adverse NJP/court-martial in the last 6 months
Satisfied Navy COOL/education program prerequisites
What’s the difference between Traditional and Roth TSP?
Traditional TSP: Contributions are pre-tax; you pay taxes when you withdraw in retirement.
Roth TSP: Contributions are after-tax; withdrawals are tax-free if qualified.
In which conflicts has the squadron served?
WWII
Korean War
Vietnam War
Operation Desert Storm
Global War on Terrorism Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom
How can Sailors file a complaint under CMEO?
They can submit a formal or informal Equal Opportunity (EO) complaint through their chain of command, directly to the CMEO manager.
How many CFSs should a command have?
Commands should maintain at least one CFS per 75 personnel, though more may be assigned based on command needs or deployment cycles.
What is the difference between TA and Navy COOL?
TA funds academic degrees
Navy COOL (Credentialing Opportunities On-Line) funds professional certifications and licenses related to Navy ratings, collateral duties, or civilian careers
What investment options are available in TSP?
G Fund: Government securities
F Fund: Fixed income
C Fund: Common stocks (S&P 500)
S Fund: Small/mid-cap stocks
I Fund: International stocks
L Funds: Lifecycle funds based on your retirement date
What aircraft has VFA‑115 flown over its history?
TBF/TBM Avenger (WWII)
Douglas Skyraider (late 1940s–1950s)
F9F Panther, F4D Skyray, F-4 Phantom II, A-6 Intruder
F/A‑18C Hornet (1996–2001)
F/A‑18E Super Hornet (2001–2024)
How often must commands conduct a DEOCS survey?
Within 90 days of assuming command
At a minimum, annually
Are CFSs allowed to provide legal or investment advice?
No. CFSs may offer education on financial topics but must not provide legal advice, investment recommendations, or act as financial planners.