Honoring Federal Milestones: The Career Service Award

January 9, 2026

The Career Service Award, administered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), is a prestigious way to recognize federal employees who have reached benchmarks of 5 to 50 years of service. Unlike performance-based awards, these certificates celebrate the enduring commitment of a career in public service.

To match the significance of these milestones, each certificate is designed with high-end features:

  • Quality Stock: Printed on heavy, off-white paper.
  • Custom Sizes: Available in 8 x 10″ or 8.5 x 11″ formats.
  • The Great Seal: Features a stunning, metallic, embossed Great Seal of the United States in Bronze, Silver, or Gold.

Why Recognition Matters

  • Symbolic Impact: Commemorates decades of achievement and dedication to the nation.
  • Employee Morale: Provides a tangible sense of pride and professional validation.

Honoring your team with these elegant awards ensures their years of hard work become a cherished memory.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

1 Comment | Office of Personnel Management | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Preserving the Past – Center of Military History Publications

September 26, 2025

The United States Army has a long and storied history, filled with pivotal battles, technological advancements, and the personal stories of soldiers who served. Documenting this rich legacy is the mission of the Center of Military History (CMH), the U.S. Army’s authority on historical research and documentation. CMH ensures that the Army’s history is preserved and accessible for military professionals and the public.

More Than Just Books

CMH’s work extends far beyond its publications. The Center is responsible for administering the Army’s field history operations worldwide and managing its expansive network of museums, both stateside and abroad. This commitment to firsthand historical operations and physical preservation informs the authenticity and depth of every publication it produces.

Essential Resources for Every Enthusiast

CMH produces publications for worldwide distribution, each providing a unique look into the Army’s past. These resources are indispensable guides for historians, researchers, and anyone interested in American military history. Browse the CMH collection here.

CMH’s publications include:

  • Books and Monographs: Comprehensive studies on specific campaigns, units, and military topics.
  • Pamphlets: Concise and informative booklets on various subjects, from the history of Army branches to tactical overviews.
  • CD-ROMs: Historical data and documents compiled into a convenient digital format.
  • Historical Map Posters: Detailed maps visually depict key campaigns and military operations.
  • Professional Bulletin Army History: An official bulletin that features articles, news, and book reviews on military history.

By documenting and distributing this history, CMH provides an invaluable service, ensuring that the sacrifices and achievements of the U.S. Army are never forgotten. Exploring their publications is an excellent way to deepen your understanding of the service members who have shaped the nation.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Center of Military History, Department of Defense, Military History, U.S. Army, Vietnam | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

The Air Force celebrates 78 years of keeping America’s skies safe

September 17, 2025

The U.S. Air Force celebrates its birthday on September 18, commemorating the day in 1947 when the National Security Act established the Air Force as an independent military branch. This act solidified the Air Force’s role in national defense, with a core mission of global vigilance, reach, and power.

To help honor the history of airpower and recognize the dedication of the airmen and women who ensure the nation’s security and global aerial supremacy, go one step further by learning more about air safety from the Mobility Forum publication.

The Mobility Forum is the Air Force publication for the Air Mobility Command (AMC). It stresses the importance of safety through articles based on firsthand personnel experiences. The magazine shares knowledge and best practices by providing a platform to check out stories and insights in support of the Air Force’s continuous improvement, innovation, and risk management.

With informative content, not regulatory, it offers valuable, real-world context on topics ranging from flight safety and maintenance to leadership and training. These experiences and lessons learned from the field to develop a professional, well-informed, and adaptable force are of value to anyone engaged in flight and properly concerned with safety as Air Priority # One.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Department of Defense, U.S. Air Force | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Constitution Week: A Celebration of American Democracy

September 15, 2025

Constitution Week, celebrated annually from September 17 to September 23, commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. This week-long observance also includes Citizenship Day on September 17, and it serves as an opportunity to reflect on the core principles and ideals that form the bedrock of American democracy.

A great resource for learning more is The Constitution of the United States and The Declaration of Independence (Pocket Edition). Available from the U.S. Government Bookstore, this official publication is a compact and convenient way to carry a reminder of the foundational documents that outline our nation’s government, define its structure, and detail the processes for ratification and amendment.

Why is Constitution Week Important?

The primary goals of Constitution Week are to:

  • Educate: Raise awareness about the U.S. Constitution and its vital role in shaping American society.
  • Promote Civic Engagement: Encourage citizens to get involved in the democratic process and understand their rights and responsibilities.
  • Celebrate American Values: Honor the principles of liberty, justice, and equality that are enshrined in the Constitution.

How to Celebrate Constitution Week

There are many ways to participate and honor this important week:

  • Educational Activities: Schools and community groups often host debates, mock trials, and historical reenactments.
  • Community Events: Look for local flag-raising ceremonies, parades, or picnics.
  • Online Resources: Explore the many online resources that provide information on the Constitution’s history and significance.

By celebrating Constitution Week, we can help ensure that the principles and values of our nation’s founding document are cherished and protected for future generations.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

4 Comments | Civics and Citizenship, Congress, U.S. History | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

A Foundational Guide to America’s Mineral Wealth

September 12, 2025

Understanding the nation’s mineral resources is more important than ever. From the push for clean energy to securing national defense, the availability of critical minerals directly impacts our economic and national security. The publication, Critical Mineral Resources of the United States, is an essential guide to this topic.

Critical Mineral Resources of the United States is an authoritative book that provides a comprehensive, data-rich look at the nation’s mineral wealth. The publication gives policymakers, researchers, and students the foundational knowledge they need by exploring:

  • The distribution and geology of key minerals across the United States.
  • The economic importance and supply chain of critical mineral resources.
  • The history of mineral resource development and policy implications.

This publication offers an evident and invaluable resource in an era of shifting global dynamics and increasing demand. It’s an essential tool for anyone seeking to understand the resources that drive our modern world.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Your Guide to Education Publications

August 27, 2025

Whether you’re a teacher, a student, a parent, or a school administrator, the world of education is constantly evolving. Staying on top of best practices, new research, and critical resources is key to success. From enhancing the classroom environment to planning for college, our diverse collection of education publications has you covered.

For Educators and a Healthy Learning Environment

Effective teaching and a healthy school environment go hand in hand. The English Teaching Forum is a fantastic resource for English language teachers outside the United States, offering practical articles, ideas, and materials to help improve their craft.

For those focused on the school building, the Sensible Guide for Healthier School Renovations provides crucial environmental health considerations for any school-renovation project. Pair this with the Sensible Steps to Healthier School Environments, which outlines cost-effective measures to protect the health of students and staff. These two guides provide practical, actionable advice for creating a safe and healthy place to learn and teach.

For Students and Parents: Planning for College

Navigating the path to higher education can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We have several essential publications to help make the journey clearer.

My Future, My Way: First Steps Toward College is a great starting point for students, helping them think about their goals and what they want from their education.

The College Preparation Checklist is an easy-to-use resource outlining all the key steps students must take, from test prep to application deadlines.

Finally, a key piece of the puzzle is understanding how to pay for everything. Funding Your Education: The Guide to Federal Student Aid is an invaluable resource that demystifies finding and applying for federal financial assistance.

These publications, available as accessible eBooks, provide the knowledge and tools students need to prepare for their future confidently.

From professional development for teachers to financial aid guidance for students, these publications offer a wealth of information for every step of the educational journey. Find the resources you need to learn, grow, and succeed.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Department of Education, Family, Teachers and teaching | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Navigate with the Stars: The New Nautical Almanac for 2026

August 19, 2025

In an age of GPS and electronic charts, the time-honored skill of celestial navigation remains an essential art for mariners. It requires precision, knowledge, and a reliable guide. That guide is the Nautical Almanac, a critical resource that continues to serve as the standard for marine navigation. The new Nautical Almanac for 2026 is now available, providing the essential data needed for celestial navigation.

The Nautical Almanac is a powerful tool. It’s an annual treasure trove of astronomical information, published jointly by the U.S. Naval Observatory and the U.K. Hydrographic Office. This indispensable guide includes Celestial Body Positions: Accurate data for the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars. Rise and Set Times: Precise calculations for sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset. Ephemeris Data: Detailed information on planetary and lunar positions. Together, these provide everything you need to plot your position on the open sea, ensuring you can always navigate confidently and precisely.

Beyond the Open Sea

While primarily a resource for navigators, the Nautical Almanac’s applications extend far beyond the maritime world. Amateur astronomers can use it to plan observations, track celestial events, and deepen their understanding of the night sky. Even for those with a casual interest in astronomy, the Almanac offers a fascinating look into the detailed movements of the cosmos. Whether on the water or under the stars, the Nautical Almanac connects you to the timeless art and science of finding your way.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From the US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Naval Observatory, U.S. Navy | Tagged: , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrate National Aviation Day with these Essential Reads!

August 13, 2025

August 19th is National Aviation Day, a great time to celebrate the history and the future of flight! Whether you’re a seasoned pilot, an aviation enthusiast, or simply curious about the wonders of aircraft, the U.S. Government Bookstore has a wealth of publications to suit your passion. Take to the skies with these fascinating and informative titles:

Soar Through History:

  • First Flight: The Wright Brothers and the Invention of the Airplane: Relive the groundbreaking journey of Wilbur and Orville Wright, the pioneers who dared to dream of flight. This captivating book delves into their tireless efforts, ingenious designs, and the historic moment that changed the world forever. It is a must-read for understanding the very foundations of aviation!

Essential Knowledge for Every Aviator:

  • FAA Safety Briefing: Stay informed and enhance your aviation safety knowledge with this crucial Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) periodical. Packed with articles, insights, and best practices, it covers various topics vital for pilots, mechanics, and aviation professionals. Keep your skills sharp and your flights safe with the latest information.
  • Plane Sense, General Aviation Information: This comprehensive guide provides foundational knowledge for general aviation pilots. Plane Sense is an invaluable resource for student pilots and those looking to refresh their understanding of basic aviation principles, covering topics from aerodynamics and aircraft systems to flight operations and regulations.

Delving Deeper into Flight:

  • Advanced Avionics Handbook: While technology advances rapidly, the fundamental principles of avionics remain crucial. This handbook explores advanced aircraft electronic systems, providing insights into navigation, communication, and flight control technologies. It is a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities within the cockpit.
  • Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge: A cornerstone of pilot training, this handbook provides a wealth of information essential for obtaining a pilot certificate. From the principles of flight and aerodynamics to weather theory and regulations, this comprehensive guide lays the groundwork for safe and knowledgeable piloting.

These publications from the U.S. Government Bookstore offer a journey through aviation history and provide the fundamental understanding of safe and successful flying. Visit the bookstore today and let your passion for aviation take flight!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Aviation, Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Adminstration (FAA) | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

August 7, 2025

In observance of National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), we are highlighting the importance of routine vaccinations to safeguard our communities. The month emphasizes the importance of vaccination for everyone, regardless of age, as a key part of public health. Vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious diseases.

During NIAM, you can:

  • Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about your vaccination status.
  • Get vaccinated against preventable diseases.
  • Volunteer to help with local immunization events.

Travel with Your Health Passport

Vaccination is also critical for international travel. “Before you see the world,” a great first step is to get the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis, approved by the World Health Organization and available from the U.S. Government Bookstore. Also known as the “Yellow Card,” this document is often required for entry into countries with specific health risks.

This certificate, with text in both English and French, serves as your health passport. To make it valid, you must first visit a healthcare provider for any vaccinations required for your destination. Your doctor will list the vaccinations on the form, sign it, and date it. Every traveler must keep their Yellow Card with them while traveling as proof of vaccination. With this vital document, you’re ready to plan your next venture of a lifetime.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Consumers, Family, health, Health care, NIH, Travel and Tourism | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

The New U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook 2025 is Here!

July 31, 2025

Big news for maritime safety! The new U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook (IMH) 2025 is now available. This updated guide builds on the firm foundation of previous versions, especially the 2014 handbook, to boost the Coast Guard’s incident response capabilities and strengthen partnerships.

Why a New Handbook?

The maritime world is constantly changing. From complex cyber threats to the need for better teamwork with national and international partners, the demands on the Coast Guard’s incident management system are more dynamic than ever. The 2025 IMH tackles these modern challenges head-on, adding the latest National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) best practices.

It is designed to assist Coast Guard personnel in using the ICS during response operations. The IMH is intended to be an easy reference job aid for responders. It is not a policy document, but rather guidance for response personnel. During the development of the IMH, it was recognized that eighty percent of all response operations share common principles, procedures, and processes. The other twenty percent of response operations are unique to the type of incident, such as a search and rescue case or an oil spill. The handbook is laid out so that the generic information applicable to all responses is presented up-front. 

Updates and Highlights of the 2025 IMH:

  • Alignment with Updated NIMS Doctrine: This document incorporates the latest changes to ensure standardized response protocols across federal, state, and local partners.
  • Enhanced Response Strategies for Severe Weather: Provides comprehensive guidelines for severe weather events and Presidentially Declared Disasters to improve preparedness and operational effectiveness.
  • Cyber Incident Response Integration: Includes updated protocols for managing cyber-related events, emphasizing cybersecurity measures for protecting critical infrastructure.
  • Utilization of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS): This section highlights the role of UAS in improving situational awareness, data collection, and response efficiency.
  • Focus on Responder Resilience: This approach emphasizes critical incident stress management (CISM) and responder resilience, offering resources to support personnel’s mental health and well-being.

The U.S. Coast Guard Incident Management Handbook 2025 shows the service’s commitment to readiness and excellence. It’s a proactive step to adapt to a changing operational environment and ensure the safety and security of our waterways. Understanding and using this new handbook will be vital for all responders and maritime professionals.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

Leave a Comment » | Department of Defense, Emergency Response, U.S. Coast Guard | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

Celebrating 60 Years of Medicare and Medicaid

July 29, 2025

On July 30, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Social Security Act Amendments, establishing Medicare and Medicaid. Tomorrow, these vital programs will mark their 60th anniversary, a testament to their enduring role as the cornerstone of affordable healthcare for Americans over 65 and for low-income families.

Understanding and completing the necessary documentation to qualify for these crucial benefits is essential. The U.S. Government Publishing Office (GPO) online bookstore offers the Health Insurance Claim Forms (CMS-1500) to assist with this. This is the standard health insurance claim form from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

The CMS-1500 form is the standard claim form developed by the National Uniform Claim Committee (NUCC). Non-institutional medical providers or suppliers use it to bill Medicare carriers and durable medical equipment regional carriers (DMERCs) when a provider qualifies for a waiver from the Administrative Simplification Compliance Act (ASCA) requirement for electronic claim submission. It’s also used to bill some Medicaid state agencies. For more information, visit the CMS website at cms.gov.

Taking a few moments to manage these important federal benefits can provide peace of mind and ensure that your medical and financial needs are in order.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).

 

Leave a Comment » | aging, Department of Health & Human Services, Health care | Tagged: , , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Trudy Hawkins

USDA Guides to the American Southwest: Exploring Flora and Ecosystems

July 22, 2025

Keep your ecosystem knowledge fresh with these newly updated United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) publications.

Plant Associations of AZ and NM, Ed. 4, Vol. 1 – Forests & Plant Associations of AZ and NM, Ed. 4, Vol. 2 – Woodlands. This two-volume publication set describes the known plant associations for forests and woodlands in Arizona and New Mexico. These ecosystems are naturally complex and diverse, making them difficult to thoroughly understand or to predict changes resulting from management actions or inactions. Classifying various types of forests and woodlands allows us to make general statements about observations from one site and apply that knowledge to similar sites.

These USDA guides provide the following helpful information for understanding and managing the unique forest and woodland ecosystems of the American Southwest:

  • Invaluable guides to Arizona & New Mexico’s diverse forest and woodland ecosystems.
  • Systematically classify plant associations, offering a foundational understanding of vegetation patterns, species composition, and environmental factors.
  • Aid professionals in making informed decisions on reforestation and land-use impacts.
  • Provide a structured approach to learning Southwest flora, including identification keys and species descriptions.
  • Indispensable for research, conservation planning, and habitat assessment, fostering appreciation for the region’s botanical richness.

USDA publications serve as authoritative references that bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical application. They empower individuals to understand better, protect, and manage the irreplaceable forest and woodland resources of Arizona and New Mexico, ensuring their health and vitality for future generations.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Visit our Retail Store: To buy or order a copy of any print editions from this collection at GPO’s retail bookstore at 710 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20401, open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Federal holidays, Call (202) 512-0132 for information or to arrange in-store pick-up(s).

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication and Information Sales program office.

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