The United States Army has declared Monday through July 5 as Armed Forces Voters Week and Overseas Citizens Voters Week.
Absentee voters are encouraged to register to vote in their state of legal residence, and to request absentee ballots for all elections. The General Election is Tuesday, Nov. 6, with primary elections now in full swing. Eligible local voters are encouraged to register and vote in all local elections.
The majority of Soldiers and their eligible family members, by being stationed somewhere other than their state of legal residence, must vote by absentee ballot in order to participate in elections. Registration is required in most states in order to receive absentee ballots for elections.
It is recommended that absentee voters register each year and any time they have a change of address.
For all eligible active duty members of the Uniformed Services and their eligible family members (U.S. citizen, 18 years old), the Federal Post Card Application can be used to register to vote while simultaneously requesting absentee ballots. It is also used to submit a change of address to your local election official.
The Federal Voting Assistance Program makes it easy. You may go online at www.fvap.gov and select your state of legal residence, which will normally match what is on your leave and earnings statement, and then select to fill out the FPCA. All state specific information and requirements are provided.
Your Installation Voting Assistance Office is also here to provide information and assistance in exercising your right to vote.
The office is located in Dillard Hall, Building 470, Room 2226. The hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The phone number is 573.596.0741 and the e-mail address is usarmy.leonardwood.usag.mbx.voting-assistance@mail.mil. Remember, your vote is your voice.
