 A re-enlistment bonus initiative was announced for qualifying FY18 Marines. We learn more about the blended retirement system and the first Marine to lead the International Space Station prepares to launch, this week on The Core Report. Manpower and Reserve Affairs announced a re-enlistment bonus initiative for FY18 Marines. All Marines currently eligible for a bonus will receive an additional $10,000 kicker on top of their bonus if they re-up before September 30th, 2017. For Marines who elect to perform a special duty assignment by the end of the year, a $20,000 kicker is available in addition to their primary MOS bonus. More kicker initiative bonuses are available. Speak to your career planner or check Maradmin 35017 for more. Marines have the option to opt in or opt out of the new blended retirement system. The new system has many changes, including matched thrift savings contributions up to 5%. The blended retirement system is mandatory for all service members who join after January 2018. The opt-in election period for the blended retirement system begins January 1st, 2018 and ends on December 31st, 2018. The first Marine to command the International Space Station is launching into space this week. Retired Marine Colonel Randolph Breznik will launch into orbit from Kazakhstan. Breznik entered the corps in May 1989 and eventually became an FAA-18 test pilot. He also flew multiple combat missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Breznik joined NASA in 2004 and is a veteran of the STS-129 spaceflight. He will now return to the International Space Station on July 28th, 2017 as a part of Expeditions 52 and 53. Follow him on social media at Astro Comrade. That's all for this week on The Corps Report.