5 FRA Requests Base Access Policy From CNO

24 Convention 101

M AY 2 0 0 8F R A T e s T i F i e s B e F o R e H o u s e A n d s e n AT e V e T e R A n s C o M M i T T e e s 8

BransonSite of the 2008 FRA /LA FRA Conventions

If you or a loved one has been

diagnosed with, or died from,

asbestos-related lung cancer

or mesothelioma, we may be

able to help you get monetary

compensation from the

asbestos manufacturers.

Please contact the law firm of:

Bergman & Frockt

614 First Avenue, Fourth Floor

Seattle, WA 98104

Toll Free: (888) 647-6007

www.bergmanlegal.com

No charge for initial consultation.

Please ask for Emily Murray.

MESOTHELIOMA

1

FRA

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Ay MAy 2008

If you or a loved one has been

diagnosed with, or died from,

asbestos-related lung cancer

or mesothelioma, we may be

able to help you get monetary

compensation from the

asbestos manufacturers.

Please contact the law firm of:

Bergman & Frockt

614 First Avenue, Fourth Floor

Seattle, WA 98104

Toll Free: (888) 647-6007

www.bergmanlegal.com

No charge for initial consultation.

Please ask for Emily Murray.

MESOTHELIOMA

6

8

May 2008

Volume 87 Number 5

Featured16 BRAnson

It’s the site of FRA and LA FRA 2008 National Conventions — and with so much to see and do, you will want to go early and stay late!

Departments 2 CommuniCATions

Reach out and touch someone

5 nEd PERsPECTivEFRA Requests Base Access Policy From CNO

6 sHiPmATE FoRum

8 on & oFF CAPiToL HiLLFRA Testifies Before House and Senate Veterans Committees

14 mEmBERsHiP mATTERsRecruiting and outreach

24 ConvEnTion 101A handy primer on attending FRA’s National Convention

28 nEws FRom THE BRAnCHEs

32 REunions

33 TAPs

35 Looking FoR…

36 LA FRA nEws

on THE CovERWhen you think of Branson, you may think of the amazing variety of shows – but don’t forget the absolute beauty of the area! This beautiful view of Table Rock Lake is but a sample of the breathtak-ing vistas of the region.

FRA is A CongREssionALLy CHARTEREd, non-PRoFiT oRgAnizATion AdvoCATing FoR CuRREnT And FoRmER EnLisTEd mEmBERs oF THE u.s. nAvy, mARinE CoRPs And CoAsT guARd on CAPiToL HiLL. FoR moRE inFoRmATion on THE BEnEFiTs oF mEmBERsHiP, PLEAsE visiT www.FRA.oRg oR CALL 800-FRA-1924.

LoyALTy, PRoTECTion And sERviCE

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CommuniCATions

NatioNal officers/Board of directors

Nat’l President Lawrence J. Boudreaux, Hangtown Branch 275

Nat’l Vice President Donald Mucheck, Charleston Branch 50

Nat’l executive dir. Joseph L. Barnes, Navy Dept. Branch 181

finance officer Paul Rigby

Junior PNP Jerry L. Sweeney, Navy Dept. Branch 181

regioNal PresideNts

New england William J. Waite, Pinetree Branch 156

Northeast James E. Brown, Staten Island Branch 226

east coast Claire Haynes Purdy, Annapolis Branch 24

southeast Roger E. Mitchell, Gasparilla Branch 188

North central Marty J. Posekany, Wolverine Branch 298

south central Melvin R. Harper, Mountain Home Branch 251

southwest Harry N. Lyons, Green Valley Branch 77

West coast Lee M. Hollowell, Jr., Lake Shasta Branch 281

Northwest Robert E. Gilmore, Whidbey Island Branch 97

Nat’l. Parliamentarian PNP J.C. Jim Eblen, San Diego Branch 9

Nat’l chaplain Patrick H. LeClaire, Silver Dollar Branch 192

actiVe duty adVisory couNcil

Master chief Petty officer of the Navy Joe Campa

sergeant Major of the Marine corps Carlton Kent

Master chief Petty officer of the coast guard Charles Bowen

reserVe adVisory couNcil

force Master chief of the Naval reserve David Pennington

usMc reserve force sergeant Major Jimmy D. Cummings

Master chief Petty officer of the coast guard reserve force

Jeffrey Smith

fra today MagaziNe

Publisher FRA

Managing editor Eileen Murphy

contributing editor Lauren Armstrong

design and art direction

FIREBRAND, Alexandria, VA www.firebrandstudios.com

design director Scott Rodgerson

Production Manager Sandy Jones

fra today (ISSN 0028-1409) IS PuBLISHED MoNtHLy By FRA, 125 N. WESt St., ALExANDRIA, VA 22314-2754. A MEMBER’S SuBSCRIPtIoN IS CoVERED By tHE MEMBER’S ANNuAL DuES. PERIoDICALS PoStAGE PAID At ALExANDRIA, VA AND ADDItIoNAL oFFICES. PuBLICAtIoN oF NoN-SPoNSoRED ADVERtISING IN frA toDAy DoES Not CoNStItutE AN ENDoRSEMENt By tHE FRA oR ItS REPRESENtAtIVES. PostMaster: seNd address chaNges to: MeMBer serVices, fra, 125 N. West st., alexaNdria, Va 22314-2754. frA toDAy IS PuBLISHED IN tHE INtEREStS oF ALL CuRRENt AND FoRMER ENLIStED PERSoNNEL oF tHE u.S. NAVy, MARINE CoRPS, AND CoASt GuARD. ELIGIBLE NoN-MEMBERS ARE Not ENtItLED to SuBSCRIPtIoN RAtES. EStABLISHED 1 NoVEMBER 1923. tItLE REGIStERED WItH u.S. PAtENt oFFICE.

FRA ADMINIStRAtIVE HEADquARtERS: 125 N. WESt St., ALExANDRIA, VA 22314-2754 PHoNE: 703-683-1400, 800-FRA-1924 • FAx: 703-549-6610 • E-MAIL: FRAtoDAy@FRA.oRG

W W W . F R A . o R G

VoLuME 87 NuMBER 5

Eileen Murphy is the Director of Marketing and Communications and serves as the Managing Editor of frA today. Please contact her at eileen@fra.org.

Eileen Murphy

Reach Out and Touch SomeoneAT&T usEd ThE slogAn “Reach out and touch someone” in the early 1980s to encourage people to make long distance phone calls to keep in touch with friends and family. Maintaining communication is very important for membership organizations as well. FRA HQ believes the more engaged members are, the more they will appreciate the value of membership and will continue to renew. In an effort to help members keep in touch, FRA provides many free communications services.

it’s your CallEach month, FRA HQ staff host a free teleconference as a member service. Please mark your calendar for the second Wednesday of each month at 1200 (EDT), and dial 1-877-746-9514. Enter code 1924 to participate in the call, 1400 to listen only. Topics vary month-to-month, and often relate to the feature article in FRA Today.

These calls are a great way for members to get information, commu-nicate with each other and share ideas. As an example, on 9 April Force Master Chief of the Naval Reserve Dave Pennington, USMC Reserve Affairs Sergeant Major Joseph Davenport, and Master Chief Petty Officer of the USCG Reserve Jeff Smith were the guest speakers. They discussed the Role of Reserve Forces as an adjunct to the FRA Today feature article. Topics addressed during the call included the transition from a strategic to an operational Reserve, the need for travel reim-bursements for Reservists (many of whom pay more for travel expenses than they earn during active duty assignments), the cost of participat-ing in the TRICARE Reserve Select program, the future of the Navy and Coast Guard’s PS ratings, and the need to raise awareness of FRA’s advocacy efforts among active duty and Reserve personnel. Callers also had an opportunity to ask questions and share perspectives.

Mark your calendar for the upcoming “Your Voice” Teleconferences: 14 May 2008: An Overview of Branson, Mo. 11 June 2008: FRA Marketing Initiatives 9 July 2008: Preserving Oral Histories/Veterans History Project

A Quick updateAnother great (and free!) way to keep informed is NewsBytes, FRA’s free weekly legislative and Association news e-mail update. If you have access to e-mail and are not receiving NewsBytes, please send an e-mail with your name, membership number or address (so we can be sure to mark the correct record) to newsbytes@fra.org with “Subscribe” in the subject line.

If you do not have access to e-mail but would like to hear NewsBytes by phone, please call 1-800-FRA-1924 and dial extension 112. NewsBytes by phone is updated each Friday afternoon.

The Fifth C?

Is it possible that the mind of a scientistcan create more beauty and romancethan Mother Nature? The laboratories

at DiamondAura were created with onemission in mind: Create brilliant cut jewelrythat allows everyone to experience more clarity, more scintillation and larger caratweights than they have ever experienced. So,we’ve taken 2.5 carats of our scientifically-grown DiamondAuras and set them in themost classic setting—the result is our moststunning, fiery, faceted design yet! In purelyscientific measurement terms, the refractoryindex of the DiamondAura is very high, andthe color dispersion is actually superior tomined diamonds.

Perfection from the laboratory.We named our brilliant cut stonesDiamondAura, because, “they dazzle just like natural diamonds but without

the outrageous cost.” We will not bore youwith the incredible details of the scientificprocess, but will only say that it involves the use of rare minerals heated to an incredibly high temperature of over 5000˚F.This can only be accomplished inside somevery modern and expensive laboratoryequipment. After several additional steps,scientists finally created a clear faultless marvel that looks even better than the vastmajority of mined diamonds. According tothe book Jewelry and Gems–the BuyingGuide, the technique used in DiamondAuraoffers, “The best diamond simulation to date,and even some jewelers have mistaken thesestones for mined diamonds.”

The 4 C’s. Our DiamondAura 3-StoneClassique Ring retains every jeweler’s specification: color, clarity, cut, and caratweight. The transparent color and clarity of DiamondAura emulate the most perfect

diamonds—D Flawless, and both are so hard they will cut glass. The brilliant cutmaximizes the fire and radiance of the stoneso that the light disperses into an exquisiterainbow of colors.

Rock solid guarantee. This .925 sterlingsilver ring is prong-set with a 1.5 caratDiamondAura round brilliant in the center,showcased between two DiamondAuraround brilliants of .48 carats each. Adding to your 4 C’s, we will include theDiamondAura stud earrings for FREE! Trythe DiamondAura 3-Stone Classique Ringfor 30 days. If for any reason you are notsatisfied with your purchase, simply returnit to us for a full refund of the purchaseprice and keep the stud earrings as our gift.

“The color and clarity of

DiamondAura rivals that of a

flawless D-colored diamond”.

—Steven Rozensky

Noted jewelry expert

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Not Available in StoresDiamondAura 3-Stone Classique Ring(2.5 c.t.w) • $145 + S&H

FREE stud earrings with purchase ofClassique Ring—a $59.95 value!Available in ring sizes 5-9

Place one of your own rings on top ofone of the circle diagrams. Your ringsize is the circle that matches the insidediameter of your ring. If your ring fallsbetween sizes, order the next larger size.

COMPARE FOR YOURSELF AT 2.5 CARATS

Mined Flawless DiamondAuraDiamond Compares to:

Hardness Cuts Glass Cuts Glass

Cut (58 facets) Brilliant Brilliant

Color “D” Colorless “D” Colorless

Clarity “IF” “F” Faultless

Dispersion/Fire 0.044 0.066

2.5 c.t.w. ring $60,000+ $145

Cut, Color, Carat, Clarity…Chemistry?

Receive these scintillating

DiamondAura Classique

sterling silver stud

earrings FREE!Read details below.

Call to order toll-free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

1-888-201-7095Promotional Code DAR241-01Please mention this code when you call.

The Fifth C?

Is it possible that the mind of a scientistcan create more beauty and romancethan Mother Nature? The laboratories

at DiamondAura were created with onemission in mind: Create brilliant cut jewelrythat allows everyone to experience more clarity, more scintillation and larger caratweights than they have ever experienced. So,we’ve taken 2.5 carats of our scientifically-grown DiamondAuras and set them in themost classic setting—the result is our moststunning, fiery, faceted design yet! In purelyscientific measurement terms, the refractoryindex of the DiamondAura is very high, andthe color dispersion is actually superior tomined diamonds.

Perfection from the laboratory.We named our brilliant cut stonesDiamondAura, because, “they dazzle just like natural diamonds but without

the outrageous cost.” We will not bore youwith the incredible details of the scientificprocess, but will only say that it involves the use of rare minerals heated to an incredibly high temperature of over 5000˚F.This can only be accomplished inside somevery modern and expensive laboratoryequipment. After several additional steps,scientists finally created a clear faultless marvel that looks even better than the vastmajority of mined diamonds. According tothe book Jewelry and Gems–the BuyingGuide, the technique used in DiamondAuraoffers, “The best diamond simulation to date,and even some jewelers have mistaken thesestones for mined diamonds.”

The 4 C’s. Our DiamondAura 3-StoneClassique Ring retains every jeweler’s specification: color, clarity, cut, and caratweight. The transparent color and clarity of DiamondAura emulate the most perfect

diamonds—D Flawless, and both are so hard they will cut glass. The brilliant cutmaximizes the fire and radiance of the stoneso that the light disperses into an exquisiterainbow of colors.

Rock solid guarantee. This .925 sterlingsilver ring is prong-set with a 1.5 caratDiamondAura round brilliant in the center,showcased between two DiamondAuraround brilliants of .48 carats each. Adding to your 4 C’s, we will include theDiamondAura stud earrings for FREE! Trythe DiamondAura 3-Stone Classique Ringfor 30 days. If for any reason you are notsatisfied with your purchase, simply returnit to us for a full refund of the purchaseprice and keep the stud earrings as our gift.

“The color and clarity of

DiamondAura rivals that of a

flawless D-colored diamond”.

—Steven Rozensky

Noted jewelry expert

14101 Southcross Drive W.,Dept. DAR241-01, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337www.stauer.com

Not Available in StoresDiamondAura 3-Stone Classique Ring(2.5 c.t.w) • $145 + S&H

FREE stud earrings with purchase ofClassique Ring—a $59.95 value!Available in ring sizes 5-9

Place one of your own rings on top ofone of the circle diagrams. Your ringsize is the circle that matches the insidediameter of your ring. If your ring fallsbetween sizes, order the next larger size.

COMPARE FOR YOURSELF AT 2.5 CARATS

Mined Flawless DiamondAuraDiamond Compares to:

Hardness Cuts Glass Cuts Glass

Cut (58 facets) Brilliant Brilliant

Color “D” Colorless “D” Colorless

Clarity “IF” “F” Faultless

Dispersion/Fire 0.044 0.066

2.5 c.t.w. ring $60,000+ $145

Cut, Color, Carat, Clarity…Chemistry?

Receive these scintillating

DiamondAura Classique

sterling silver stud

earrings FREE!Read details below.

Call to order toll-free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

1-888-201-7095Promotional Code DAR241-01Please mention this code when you call.

.

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Base Access

nEd PERsPECTivE

.

Joe Barnes

Joe Barnes is FRA’s National Executive Director and Chairman of the National Committee on Legislative Service. A member of Navy Department Branch 181, he is also an advisor to the National Committees on Budget and Finance and Membership and Retention.

FRA shipMATEs who wish to partici-pate in Navy or Marine Corps events or staff information tables during base celebrations or observances of-ten hit a brick wall when they try to gain access to a military installation. This is not only frustrating; it also re-stricts awareness of the Association and limits opportunities to dissemi-nate information about our advocacy, scholarships and other programs asso-ciated with our mission. In a nutshell, it negatively impacts shipmates’ ability to interact with active, Reserve or re-tired personnel.

Nothing is simple and as with most government/military issues, there are broad ethics and public affairs policies that are referenced when base access or event participation requests are re-ceived. It is important to note that these are subject to interpretation by local authorities and the scope of these regulations extends well beyond activ-ities by tax-exempt military and veter-ans organizations like FRA. They also impact requests by commercial, con-tract firms and the extensive defense industry. And it’s easy for JAG per-sonnel to simply say “no” to requests without the benefit of service-specific guidance clarifying what is or is not acceptable for professional military associations (PMAs).

To address this, FRA invited the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) to co-sign a let-ter to Admiral Gary Roughead, USN, Chief of Naval Operations, asking the Navy to establish a policy for dealing with PMAs. Citing both organizations’ concerns, the letter stated,

“It is our experience that uncertainty, usually at the base-commander level, about the missions and programs of national military and veterans’ organi-zations often results in confusion when

a base commander is presented with a PMA’s request to participate in Navy and/or Marine Corps events. As a re-sult, requests to participate in service-specific celebrations, to set up and staff information tables, or to interact with service personnel on other occasions are sometimes denied by local judge advocates who are unfamiliar with the requesting organization’s purpose.”

Citing a recent example, the letter referenced FRA’s request to participate in the 2007 Fleet Week celebration in New York City by then-RVPNE James Brown and Shipmates from Staten Island Branch 226. These shipmate sought permission to set up an infor-mation table at the Staten Island Pier to support the Fleet Week program and increase awareness of the FRA. Despite the fact that three of our fellow mili-tary and veterans organizations were authorized to participate, FRA was in-accurately characterized as a “private organization” and permission was de-nied without discussion or debate.

This was reported to the Navy, but no response has been received. Undeterred, Branch 226 plans to again request permission to participate in Fleet Week events this summer.

Both FRA and MOAA are non-profit, tax-exempt (under §501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code) military/veterans organizations that effectively represent the concerns of their members on Capitol Hill and before the Executive Branch, sponsor essay contests, provide scholarships, fund assistance programs, offer coun-seling, and provide other important non-commercial member services to active-duty, active-status, Reserve, and retired members of the Navy and Marine Corps.

The U.S. Air Force has a policy in place clarifying appropriate PMA sup-port and both FRA and MOAA believe the establishment of a similar Navy policy is warranted. Such a policy would clarify what a base commander or other leader is permitted to do, while also appropriately addressing impor-tant ethical and security concerns.

I had the privilege of delivering the jointly signed letter to Adm. Roughead during a recent meeting with him, and he assured me that he would look into this important issue.

Look for updates on this in fu-ture NED Perspective columns. And finally, I would like to publicly ac-knowledge the great support on this initiative from MOAA President VADM Norbert Ryan, USN (Ret.) and members of his staff.

Nothing is simple and as

with most government/

military issues, there are

broad ethics and public

affairs policies that are

referenced when base

access or event participa-

tion requests are received.

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PTsd TreatmentThe title [of your March 2008 feature article, “Mend Shattered Souls”] im-plied spiritual significance, which at-tracted my coworkers and me. I don’t know to what extent the therapies rec-ommended achieve that.

I realize you are only reporting on what has been done, but how does the military select which treatments for whom? Why are better, less expensive techniques not being put in place?

For instance, the surgeon general for the National Guard is an acupuncture detoxification specialist. Acupuncture in the ear has the highest, quickest researched rate for trau-ma. Why is FRA not asking veterans’ families to lobby for prompt (combat zone) treatment, as well as [asking] the VA to have this as standard treatment worldwide?

Lois Lewandowski, CC, CADS, QTP, CPRP

From FRA: Your proposals certainly have merit, but are beyond the scope of FRA’s expertise and legislative agenda. Your letter has been forwarded to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Free medical Care for LifeDuane Buck (February 2008, Shipmate Forum) asked why, despite a federal lawsuit ruling that those who entered the military prior to 7 December 1956 were entitled to free medical care, he is still paying Medicare Part B premiums.

Is Shipmate Buck missing some-thing or is this another SNAFU by our government? Will those affected be given their rightful rebate on Medicare Part B premiums previously paid? And when?

David Chigos

From FRA: In 2002, a federal appeals court asked Congress to use its legal authority to eliminate Medicare Part B pay-ments for military retirees who entered service prior to 1956. However, Congress has yet to enact legislation rectifying the problem. FRA strongly supports legislation introduced by Rep. Chris Van Hollen (Md.), the “Keep Our Promise to Americas Military Retirees Act” (H.R. 1222) and the “Keeping Faith with the Greatest Generation Military Retirees Act” (H.R. 1223), that would provide the lifetime healthcare benefits promised to these career service members. Visit The Action Center at www.fra.org to express your support for these measures.

Preventing identity TheftWhen I open my wallet, one of the first things revealed through the plastic cardholders is my government-issued Navy Retired identification card, which has my Social Security number on its face. Opposite to that is my govern-ment-issue Medicare card with my Social Security number even more prominently emblazoned on its face. Both are revealed to any would-be ID thief.

I have, over the past five years, requested those numbers be placed on the back of both cards for obvious reasons. The issuers either don’t know how to make the change, can’t or won’t.

Ronald Baptista

From FRA: The Pentagon recently announced plans to re-place full Social Security numbers on military ID cards with the last four digits, which is a common practice in the civilian sector. New cards for service members and their family mem-bers will be issued as old cards expire. Military retirees will be able to replace their ID cards in 2009 or 2010.

military salute when not in uniform[I am curious about] the status of the legislative action, H.R. 3380, concerning the amendment to Title 4, United States Code, to prescribe that a member of the Armed Forces and veterans out of uniform may render the military salute dur-ing hoisting, lowering or passing of the flag.

This proposed legislation is important. We are not civil-ians. In my opinion, civilians should hold their hand over their hearts during the hoisting, lowering or passing of the flag. Veterans have earned the right to render a proper mili-tary hand salute when out of uniform.

I would like for you to assure me that action [will be] taken to get this legislation out of committee and into the law books. If we allow this legislation to founder it will be a disgrace. This legislation should also be a part of the “Legislative Action Center” of the FRA website.

ETCS/SS Bobby Broderick

From FRA: The National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2008 (Public Law 110-181) was signed by the President on 28 January 2008 and included a section (Section 594) ad-dressing this issue. According to the law, “all persons pres-ent in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and veterans who are present but not in uniform may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their head-dress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries present should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the moment the flag passes.”

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John Davis

FRA Testifies Before House and Senate Veterans Committees

From L to R Rep. John Boozman (Ark.), Rep. Vern Buchanan (Fla.), House Ranking Member Rep. Steve Buyer (Ind.), Senate ranking Member Senator Richard Burr (N.C.), Senate Chairman Senator Daniel Akaka (Hawaii), House Chairman Rep. Bob Filner (Calif.), and Rep. Tim Walz (Minn.)

FRA’s nATionAl ExEcuTivE diREcToR (NED) Joe Barnes testified before a joint hearing of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees in early April, voicing FRA’s concerns about the Administration’s proposed FY 2009 budget for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Barnes cited FRA’s belief that proposed funding levels are not adequate to meet increasing demands on VA programs. Ongoing operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and an aging veteran population threaten to overwhelm VA medical fa-cilities, and despite an unprecedented increase in the FY 2008 VA budget, the backlog of pending claims for disabil-ity benefits has not been reduced. While the White House proposes an increase over FY 2008 funding, its FY 2009 VA budget falls $3.2 billion short of Independent Budget recommendations made by a group of veterans’ service or-ganizations and endorsed by FRA.

FRA urged the committees to expand oversight to en-sure the wounded warrior reforms included in the FY 2008 Defense Authorization are effectively implemented. “These reforms are still a work in progress,” said Barnes, “and con-gressional oversight is critical to ensure success.” These reforms include a joint DoD/VA office to ensure implemen-tation of the electronic health care record; developing com-prehensive policies regarding traumatic brain injury (TBI), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), other mental health conditions plus military eye injuries; and creating centers of excellence focused on these conditions. Additionally FRA advocates a standard disability rating system (for both DoD and VA) that accounts for all medical conditions.

Barnes also expressed the Association’s strong opposi-tion to proposals for tiered health care enrollment fees for veterans in Priority Groups 7 and 8, and recommendations to nearly double prescription drug co-payments from $8 to $15 for a 30-day supply. These increases are identical to those proposed last year, and similar to proposals by the Administration for the past several years.

Additionally, FRA voiced its support for the “Total Force Montgomery GI Bill,” a measure that would inte-grate active and Reserve Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) pro-grams under VA (Title 38) authority. As the nation’s active duty, Guard and Reserve components are effectively being integrated under the Total Force concept, FRA believes educational benefits should be re-structured accordingly.

In response to the President’s proposal to expand MGIB eligibility to military family members, FRA high-lighted the importance of providing Veterans Education Assistance Program (VEAP) era, senior enlisted person-nel an additional opportunity to enroll in the more gener-ous MGIB program, as is proposed in “The Montgomery GI Bill Enhancement Act” (H.R. 4130), sponsored by

Representative Tim Walberg (Mich.). While FRA sup-ports the opportunity for family members to use a long-serving career service member’s MGIB benefits, there are thousands of senior enlisted personnel who entered mili-tary service during the VEAP era who do not qualify for MGIB benefits. FRA also recommends additional funding to increase MGIB benefits so they more realistically reflect the cost of a four-year college education.

FRA also expressed its support for the “Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act” (S.22), sponsored by Senator James Webb (Va.), and its House companion bill (H.R. 2702), introduced by Rep. Bobby Scott (Va.). Both bills propose offering service members who’ve served since 11 September 2001 improved educational benefits similar to those provided to World War II-era veterans. FRA be-lieves this bill is a step in the right direction, but suggests reforming and simplifying the current MGIB program rather than adding an entirely new MGIB program to an already-confusing system of education benefits.

FRA also continues its advocacy for full concurrent re-ceipt for all disabled veterans; disability benefits for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange as they patrolled the waters off Viet Nam; authorizing Medicare reimbursements to the VA for covered beneficiaries’ care in VA facilities; and reform of the Uniform Services Former Spouse Protection Act (USFSPA). The Association also asked committee members to be mindful of difficulties facing wounded war-riors as they prepare to vote in the Presidential election.

NED Joe Barnes testi-fies before the joint hearing of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees

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First volume of Tenth QRmC Released The Department of Defense (DoD) recently released the first report from the Tenth Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation (QRMC) which assesses the effectiveness of military pay and benefits in recruiting and retaining a high-quality military force. Every four years, DoD conducts a complete review of compensation for service members.

The report contends there is no remaining pay gap between military and civilian salaries, proposes some overdue reform of BAH, and urges the replacement of the Regular Military Compensation (RMC) formula—currently based on base pay, BAH, the subsistence allowance and federal tax advantage from non-taxable allowances. A new, more expansive formula would be known as Military Annual Compensation (MAC) and would include RMC items plus state tax advantages and the value of health care and retirement benefits to define service members’ compensation package.

Reacting to the report, NED Barnes said, “There are some good recommendations in the study, particularly with regard to BAH reform and recruiting and retention special and incentive pays. However, the strong emphasis on replacing the Regular Military Compensation (RMC) formula with a broader Military Annual Compensation (MAC) measurement to include more tax advantages and comparable costs of health care and retirement benefits will likely have minimal impact on retention decisions. Money talks and compensation must be commensurate with the unique requirements demanded of those in uniform who serve our Nation. I don’t ever recall hearing anyone consider reenlistment based on the potential tax advantage of their continued service.”

FRA also believes there is a remaining 3.4-percent pay gap between military and civilian pay levels, and has been working to close that pay gap by securing additional an-nual active duty pay increases that are at least 0.5 percent above the Employment Cost Index (ECI) along with targeted increases for mid-career and senior enlisted personnel.

The QRMC also recommends reducing the gap between “with” and “without de-pendent” BAH rates. Language addressing this disparity is included in the Fy 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, setting “without dependents” BAH to a minimum of 75 percent of the “with dependent” rate.

This is the first volume of the study dealing with cash compensation. The second volume, which addresses non-cash and deferred compensa-tion, will be published later in 2008. The Tenth QRMC report is available at: www.defenselink.mil/prhome/docs/Tenth_QRMC_Feb2008_Vol%20I.pdf .

Bringing your voice to Capitol HillFRA’s Board of Directors and Regional Vice Presidents “stormed Capitol Hill” in late April, meeting with their elected officials and key staff to promote the Association’s legislative agenda. Details will be available in the June issue of FRA Today.

streamlining military votingMembers of FRA’s Legislative Team (DLP John Davis and ADLP Ed Dockery) met with representatives from the Pew Charitable Trusts at FRA NHQ to discuss streamlining vot-ing procedures for active duty military, especially those serving overseas. The Association supports the introduction of legislation that will improve military voter participation in federal elections and expedite the military mail processing of overseas ballots.

FRA’s concerns were included in the congressional testimony submitted to the House Armed Services’ Personal Subcommittee and presented before a joint hearing of the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees. The statements also addressed FRA’s other 2008 legislative priorities.

Housing Foreclosure Bill includes sCRA improvements Legislation (H.R. 3221) sponsored by Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (Calif.) includes improvements to the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). A Senate-approved amendment to the measure, sponsored by Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Senator Christopher Dodd (Conn.) and Ranking Member Senator Richard Shelby (Ala.), will extend the time a lender must wait before starting the foreclosure process (from 90 days to 9 months after active duty or when Reservists return from deployment over-seas) and provides returning service members one-year relief from increases in mortgage interest rates. The bill re-quires DoD to create a counseling pro-gram to ensure veterans, Reservists, and active duty personnel can access assis-tance if facing financial difficulties. The bill also changes the formula that will in-crease the VA loan guarantee amount, so that veterans have additional homeown-ership opportunities. These amendment provisions sunset in January of 2011.

The final report of the Commission on the National Guard and Reserve, released in February 2008, found that the transi-tion from military to civilian life extends well beyond the current timeline provided in the SCRA (90 days) and forces many service members to focus their attention on imminent foreclosure instead of any mental or physical health concerns they may have.

The SCRA, enacted in 2003, provides protections to service members who have difficulty meeting their personal fi-nancial and legal obligations because of their military service. Service members on long-term deployments, or Reservists called to extended active duty, should not have to worry about their families being evicted from their homes without sufficient legal protections, paying on a leased car or apartment that they can’t use, or civil legal proceedings they can’t attend because of their deployment.

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TRiCARE issuEs

savings from TRiCARE Fee increase ExaggeratedWitnesses at a recent House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee hearing clarified that the savings expected to result from raising TRICARE fees and pharmacy co-pays are based on the assumption that many current and future TRICARE beneficiaries will drop the military benefit and switch to alternative health insurance offered by second-career employers. DoD analysts believe many military retirees will choose to retain TRICARE coverage, even if the proposed increases are implemented. Members of the subcommittee again expressed opposition to the proposed fee hikes and pledged to find money in the DoD budget to replace the alleged savings built into the FY 2009 budget. The recently-passed House Budget resolution also opposes the TRICARE fee increases, but does not add funding to replace the assumed savings.

FRA believes military retirees have earned TRICARE benefits through their service, including many years of arduous and dangerous duty, low wages, and long periods of separation from home and family. FRA continues to oppose drastic TRICARE fee increases and supports the “Military Retirees Health Care Protection Act” (H.R. 579) and “The Military Care Protection Act” (S. 604). Members are urged to visit the Action Center to encourage their elected officials to be co-sponsors of these legislative proposals.

Recipients nearing Age 65 must Take steps to Remain Eligible for TRiCARETRICARE beneficiaries who are turning 65 and are eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A must enroll in Medicare Part B to remain eligible for TRICARE benefits.

Exceptions include when the sponsor is on active duty, the beneficiary is enrolled in the U.S. Family Health Plan, or the beneficiary is enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select. Visit www.tricare.mil/mybenefit/home/overview/Eligibility/WhoIsEligible/MedicareBeneficiaries to learn more.

To avoid a delay in receiving Medicare benefits and to ensure timely reporting of that information to the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS), beneficiaries should apply for Medicare benefits three to four months before turn-ing 65. Prompt enrollment allows beneficiaries to avoid the Medicare Part B sur-charge for late enrollment (10 percent for each 12-month period they are eligible but not enrolled in Part B).

To sign up for Medicare Part B, call the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office.

FRA, TmC oppose Cuts to medicare Reimbursement Rates FRA and other Military Coalition (TMC) organizations signed a letter to all members of Congress, asking for a halt of the 10.6-percent reduction in the Medicare and military TRICARE reimbursement rates set to occur on 1 July 2008 and opposing the addition-al 5.4-percent cut planned for January 2009. The letter, which was included in packets distributed on Capitol Hill by members of the American Medical Association (which also supports the halt in reimbursement cuts), is avail-able at FRA’s website (www.fra.org).

TRICARE reimbursements are tied to those set for Medicare and many pro-viders do not accept new Medicare and TRICARE patients because of reduced reimbursements. Although a recent TRICARE survey shows that more civilian providers are participat-ing, physicians’ hesitancy to accept new TRICARE patients remains a seri-ous healthcare concern for Medicare-eligible and military beneficiaries in certain areas of the country. Along with other TMC organizations, FRA is working to ensure there are enough doctors willing to see TRICARE and TRICARE-for-Life patients.

Due in part to strong pressure from constituents and beneficiary organiza-tions, Congress has halted scheduled cuts in Medicare reimbursements, in-cluding enactment of FRA-supported legislation (H.R. 3162) in late 2007 that provided a temporary fix, which expires on 1 July 2008.

ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL continued on page 12

FRA Today is preparing a feature article about the plat-forms of the contending presidential candidates and we want your input.

Among the varying concerns facing our nation, which is the most important to you? What question would YOU ask the candidates?

Please send your questions to Lauren@fra.org and include “Presidential Questions” in the subject line. Or mail your questions to FRA National Headquarters, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, Attn: Lauren Armstrong.

Ask the Future President

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Sea Stories: Reminiscences ofa Navy Radioman 1952-1977

http://www.authorhouse.com/BookStore/ItemDetail-bookid-47286.aspx

425 pp. Also available fromAmazon.com and the usual outlets

Veterans’ affairs Veterans’ affairs Veterans’ affairs Veterans’ affairs Veterans’ affairs Veterans’ affairs Veterans’ affairs

wounded warriors Polled on Care They ReceiveZogby International polled 435 service members wounded in Iraq or Afghanistan who are members of Warrior Transition Units (WTUs) and receiving care in military treatment facili-ties or through TRICARE. In their responses, 77 percent said they believe the military is do-ing all it can to meet their health care needs. Fifty-eight percent said that since they began receiving medical treatment their trust and confidence in the system has increased, and a majority of them said their expectations for recovery have increased since they returned from their deployment.

The telephone poll of these severely wounded personnel was conducted on 27 February 2008, and details are available at http://www.zogby.com/news/ReadNews.dbm?ID=1463.

TBi Legislation moves ForwardThe Senate has approved “The Reauthorization of the Traumatic Brain Injury Act” (S. 793), spon-sored by Senator Orin Hatch (Utah). The House Energy and Commerce Committee approved the House companion bill (HR 1418), sponsored by Rep. Bill Pascrell (N.J.), which authorizes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide state grants for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) to enter treatment and rehabilitation programs. The law expired in 2005, but appropriators have continued to fund the program. The measure would also require the CDC to monitor brain injury incidents and create a reporting system to track the condition. The CDC also would study treatment techniques, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) would be directed to conduct basic research to improve treatment. Furthermore, the bill would authorize a study on improving access to care for veterans with TBI.

An overriding FRA priority is ensuring that wounded troops, particularly those with TBI, are cared for by a grateful nation.

Patrick dunne designated vA’s Acting Benefits ChiefPatrick W. Dunne, a retired Navy rear admiral and a senior official within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), was recently designated by President Bush to serve as the Department’s Acting Under Secretary for Benefits. In this capacity, he will be responsible for a $52 billion budget that provides compensation and pensions to nearly 4 million veterans and survivors, along with administering the Montgomery GI Bill educational program, VA’s home loan guaranties, and other veterans’ benefits.

A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Dunne spent 33 years on active duty. Since August 2006, he has served as VA’s Assistant Secretary for Policy and Planning. Dunne replaces retired Navy Vice Admiral Daniel L. Cooper, who left VA on 1 April after six years managing the Department’s benefits programs. A search commission is in the process of identifying candidates for Cooper’s permanent replacement.

vA mobile Pharmacies for disasters

To support veterans and their families dur-

ing major emergencies, especially natural

disasters, the Department of Veterans

Affairs (VA) has begun to deploy mobile

pharmacies that will provide vital medi-

cine when patients are unable to fill their

prescriptions. VA will also open up the fa-

cilities to help communities during major

disasters and other emergencies. Each VA

mobile pharmacy is housed in a 40-foot-

long solid steel trailer built to withstand

winds in a Category 3 storm. The units

include a satellite connection with VA’s

Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy

system, a computerized, automated state-

of-the-art mail-out pharmacy that can pro-

cess more than 1,000 prescriptions hourly.

VA recognized the need for mobile phar-

macies in 2005 after hurricanes Katrina

and Rita severely damaged VA medical

centers along the Gulf Coast. To ensure

rapid response to a wide range of emer-

gencies, VA’s mobile pharmacies will be

strategically placed across the nation.

Your Mission n Your Voice

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more Education Benefits Coming for multiple-Tour ReservistsSome Reservists serving on active duty will see a significant increase in their education benefits due to a provi-sion in the Fy 2008 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Reservists who accumulate three years of active duty service, regardless of breaks, may be eligible for the maximum pay-ment under the Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP). Previously, Reservists had to serve two continuous years on active duty to receive the highest payment. The new eligibility rules are retroactive to 1 October 2007. The top payment under REAP is currently $880.80 per month. This provision also expands the period of eligibility for certain Reservists who complete their service obligation be-fore separating from the Reserves.

Reservists meeting these criteria are now eligible to use education ben-efits for a period of ten years follow-ing discharge. Beginning on 1 October 2008, REAP and MGIB-Selected Reserve participants who pursue non-degree programs lasting less than two years may also be eligible to receive accelerated payments.

For more information on changes to VA’s GI Bill benefits, go to www.GIBILL.va.gov or contact VA directly at 1-888-GIBILL1 (or 1-888-442-4551).

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the FRA Legislative team is Joe Barnes, National Executive Director, John Davis, Director of Legislative Programs, Bob Washington, Health Care Advisor and outreach Manager, Chris Slawinski, National Veterans Service officer and Ed Dockery, Assistant Director of Legislative Programs.

new deployment support and Reintegration officeThe DoD announced the creation of the Deployment Support and Reintegration Office within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs. Mandated by the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, it is intended to provide support and outreach services to Reserve Component service members, their families and com-munities throughout the deployment cycle. This program places particular emphasis on preparing service members and their families for the stresses associated with separation and deployment, and highlighting resources available to assist them. The focus shifts to reconnecting service members with families and communities for successful reintegration following deployment.

Reintegration program capabilities are already being tested in 15 states. DoD plans to expand this program beyond the pilot phase to all 54 states and territories. The Deployment Support and Reintegration Office can be reached at 1-866-504-7092.

FRA and PvE Focus on Education BenefitsFRA is working in conjunction with the Partnership for Veterans

Education (PVE) to improve education benefits for active duty personnel and family members, Reservists, and veterans. The organizations are also working to improve education benefits for survivors of disabled veterans, personnel who died of a service-connected disability or service members killed on active duty. The group also supports establishing an open enrollment period for active duty personnel who did not enroll in the Veterans Education Assistance Program (VEAP) or the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) program.

FRA’s Director of Legislative Programs (DLP) John Davis participated in a PVE strategy meeting recently to discuss proposed improvements to the current MGIB, including support for the “Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act” (S. 22, H.R. 2702, see page 8) which would eliminate the $1,200 enrollment fee and provide benefits to cover the cost of a four-year, full-time college education for military person-nel who serve 36 months or more on active duty. The program would pay the equiva-lent of tuition at an in-state university, provide a monthly stipend averaging $1,000 a month that would be linked to military housing allowances (BAH), provide a stipend for books, and could be accessed up to 15 years after service.

The Pentagon and the VA have expressed concern about the bill’s estimated $2.5 billion cost in the first year alone, the potential negative impact of improved benefits on retention, and implementation difficulties.

FRA supports improvements to impact AidFRA supports “The Fair Funding for Schools Act” (H.R. 4540), recently introduced by Hawaii Representative Mazie K. Hirono, that would enhance the formula for determin-ing the amount of Impact Aid schools receive. The proposal would authorize the use of more current data rather than calculating Impact Aid payments based on the previous year’s military student population.

The Association wants to ensure that the Department of Education has adequate funding for local school districts educating military children and that the DoD budget includes sufficient supplemental funds to provide support for highly impacted school districts.

EduCATion

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Recruiting and OutreachREcRuiTing And ouTREAch ARE a per-fect pair when it comes to membership development. Conducting outreach means participating in events that are significant to the military and civil-ian communities. Events such as Navy Fleet Week, Coast Guard Day, Marine Corp Marathons, as well as ceremo-nies to honor past and present mili-tary personnel, such as Memorial and Veterans Day, are great opportunities for FRA members and branches to get involved. During these events, FRA members can participate in organiz-ing events, provide assistance to other organizers or simply set up informa-tion tables. Any type of involvement allows shipmates to showcase their commitment to our core principle of Service, and provides an opening to discuss our programs, goals and ob-jectives. These are wonderful ways to raise awareness of the FRA and the many benefits of being a member, and can often lead to recruiting or reinstat-ing fellow shipmates.

26 May is Memorial Day, which will be observed in communities around the country with numerous activities to honor our fallen heroes, wounded warriors and veterans. There will be wreaths presented at Arlington National Cemetery and the Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., as well as parades, speeches, and social functions around the nation. Check your local community calendar and consider ways your branch can participate to make these events even more meaningful.

Many branches have found enor-mous success using outreach activities to recruit new members. During the last recruiting year (which began on 1 April 2007 and ended on 31 March 2008), Branch 46 in Honolulu, Hawaii, recruited more than 100 members. Branch 99 (Virginia Beach, Va.), Branch

103 (Yokosuka, Japan) and Branch 269 (Goose Creek, S.C.) successfully added 50 or more new or reinstated members to their rosters. Branch 24 (Annapolis, Md.), Branch 29 (Bremerton, Wash.), Branch 40 (Chesapeake, Va.), Branch 60 (Norfolk, Va.), Branch 61 (Chula Vista, Calif.), Branch 70 (Poway, Calif.); Branch 91 (Jacksonville, Fla.), Branch 94 (Corpus Christi, Texas), Branch 276 (Omaha, Neb.) and Branch 290 (Mayport, Fla.) recruited or reinstated 20 or more members.

These branches shared their se-crets for successful recruiting, which included involvement in a variety of local outreach events. They participat-ed in retiree seminars or Transitional Assistance Programs (TAP); sent let-ters, called or visited current members to discuss their membership status; participated in senior leadership meetings; and sponsored Sailor of the Quarter/Year awards programs. Some branches instituted a 2-for-1 program, where the branch and member shared to cost of annual dues. Other branches sponsored activities and social func-tions for current, former and prospec-tive members and their families such as picnics, bowling leagues and golf tournaments. Some developed youth programs to include sponsorship of ball teams and derby racing. Individual branch members volunteered at mili-tary Retiree Activity Offices (RAO), hospitals or other facilities and were able to distribute FRA literature and talk about their experiences as an FRA member. These are just a few ways that recruiting efforts are enhanced through outreach programs and activities.

The 2007-2008 recruiting year ended on 31 March 2008, and on 1 April the names of all shipmates who recruited or reinstated an FRA mem-ber during the year were tossed into

a basket. Ten winners were chosen at random from participants in the Operation FRA ’07–’08 recruitment program. Walter C. Dillard of Branch 101, Joseph W. Moran of Branch 94 and Robert L. French of Branch 126 won cash prizes for their recruiting efforts. William E. Craig of Branch 60, Michael P. Norman of Branch 46, James W. Scarbro of Branch 40, James W. Gillis of Branch 367, Charles J. Starratt of Branch 20, James T. Duffy of Branch 24, and Paul A. Thompson of Branch 99 were each awarded a complementary five-year extension on their FRA membership.

The new recruiting year began on 1 April 2008 and continues through 31 March 2009. The #1 FRA Recruiter program is your opportunity to earn award pins and win prizes for recruit-ing new or reinstating former mem-bers. A new pin (see opposite page) will be awarded to shipmates who re-cruit or reinstate three (3) members.

Outreach and recruiting go hand in hand. Make it work for your branch.

mEmBERsHiP mATTERs

Penny Collins

penny collins is a member of FRA Branch 24 in Annapolis, Md. and can be reached at penny@fra.org.

Rod Kennedy, Member Services Representative, and Penny Collins,

Director of Membership Development, select winners in the Operation FRA

membership program.

Being number 1 has its rewards.

Membership is open to all Former, Retired and Active sea service Usn, UsMC, UsCG enlisted personnel. i certify that i fulfill the eligibility requirements and want to join fra. annual dues include a subscription to FRA Today magazine.

name: _______________________________________________________________ rate/rank: ____________________________________

address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ street Lot/space City state Zip Code

Date of Birth: _______________________ social security no.: ___________________________ Phone: ( ) ____________________

service: ___________ status: ____________ Membership Preference: Branch no. _______ nearest to Home Member-at-Large

Previous fra Member: no Yes (if yes, previous Member no.: _____________________________________________________)

spouses name: ____________________________ Your e-mail address: _____________________________________________________

applicant’s signature: ______________________________________________________________ Date: ___________________________

Payment Options: MC Visa Discover ae Check-enclosed

Credit Card no. _________________________________________________________________

exp. Date: ______________________________________________________________________

Join FRA: Membership Application

125 n. West streetalexandria, Va 22314-2754

Phone: 703-683-1400toll-free: 1-800-fra-1924www.fra.org

RecRuited bY:

name: ______________________________________________

Member no: ____________________ Branch no.: _______

Dues: 1 Yr $25.00 2 Yrs $40.00 3 Yrs $71.25 5 Yrs $112.50

To qualify for FRA’s ‘08–‘09 Membership Award Program:

1. Recruit three new or reinstated members and receive the “#1 FRA

Recruiter ‘08–‘09” lapel pin along with one entry in the FRA ‘08–‘09 prize

drawing for each Shipmate you recruit. (Note: You receive an entry in the drawing for

each new or reinstated member, i.e., sign up 15, you get 15 entries in the drawing and one pin.)

2. Submit the completed applications to: FRA, 125 N. West Street,

Alexandria, Virginia 22314-2754. Remember to include payment with

application and your full name and membership number.

Special OfferfOr

New MeMberS

$40 for 2 years

Become FRA’s #1 Recruiter by recruiting

three new members and receive a pin.

Qualify for valuable prizes with each

Shipmate you recruit.

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Horsing Around For a fun-filled evening of action-packed entertainment, visit Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show. The eve-ning performance includes the Carriage Room Opening Act (which begins 50 minutes before the main event), a four-course dinner, and of course, the thrilling main show. Dramatic sound and lighting, pyrotechnics and other spectacular special effects set the stage for stunt riders and performers to showcase the real stars of the shows—the Stampede’s magnificent Palomino and quarter horses. Visitors are also welcome to tour the open-air stables before the show.

Shows begin at 5:30 nightly, with an addi-tional 8:00 pm show on Saturdays. Tickets are available for $48.54 or $54.12 (for pre-ferred seating). The arena is fully accessible to guests with special needs.

For more information, visit www.dixiestampede.com.

Tap Your Toes, Stir Your Spirit In its ninth season in Branson, Spirit of the Dance is the international smash hit from Ireland. Winner of nine Global Awards, including “Best Choreography” and “Best International Production,” this thrilling stage performance features show-stopping Irish dance, passionate rhythms, and amazing demonstrations of raw en-ergy and strength. The world champion dancers of the Irish International Dance Company create thunderous cadence with their skillful precision and, coupled with dazzling costumes and breathtaking choreography, also receive thunderous ap-plause from the audience.

Shows are scheduled for the following times and dates during Convention Week:

Sunday, 21 September at 3:00 pm

Wednesday, 24 September at 8:00 pm

Friday, 26 September at 10:00 am

Saturday, 27 September at 8:00 pm

Sunday, 28 September at 3:00 pm

Tickets are available online at www.bransonvarietytheater.com/spiritdance.asp or by calling 1-888-462-7267.

S how-stopping ShowsIt’s non-stop entertainment in Branson. The city boasts a vast array of live entertainment, including stand-up comedy, musical variety shows, magicians, impressionists and show-boat cruises. Country music dominates, but there’s a rhythm and style for every taste – bluegrass, gospel, Elvis tributes, and star performers from the 1950s and 1960s.

Visit www.branson.com and click the “Shows” tab to find one that suits your taste!

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19Laugh your “Yak-off”Twice-named Branson’s Comedian of the Year, Yakov Smirnoff delivers huge laughs in his fast-paced show that celebrates the spirit of life. The Russian-born comedian draws humor from his self-proclaimed jour-ney from “Red to Redneck” and his show reflects his unique insights on love, family, and life in the U.S. His patriotic show fea-tures Lady Liberty, as well as an outrageous band of pirates and an authentic Russian dance troupe. Internationally known for his hilarious television, film and stage appear-ances, Yakov also writes the “Happily Ever Laughter” column for AARP’s magazine, highlighting the importance of compassion and laughter in relationships.

Shows during Convention Week are sched-uled at 3:00 pm on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (21, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 September) with an additional 9:30 am show on Thursday, 25 September. Ticket prices are $35 for preferred seating (Rows 1 – 7, center sec-tion) for all ages. All other seats are $32 for adults, $9.95 for children ages 6 – 12, and free for children 5 and under. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.

Visit www.yakov.com for more information or to purchase tickets online.

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The Hollister Grape and Fall FestivalFounded in 1904, Hollister’s forefathers sought to create an English village that would attract visitors from around the world. That dream is reality now as each year the Hollister Grape and Fall Festival provides activities, entertainment and crafts for a full day of family fun. Live musicians, costumed mascots and street entertainers amuse visitors as they celebrate their Ozark heritage and the harvest season. This year’s festival takes place on Saturday, 27 September, just a couple miles south of Branson.

From the Saddle of an Iron SteedFreedom, independence and adventure await you on the open roads that wind through the Ozarks. Enjoy it all from the seat of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, avail-able from EagleRiders Motorcycle Rental, USA. For approximately $115-$135 per day (rates vary based on length and type of rental), riders receive an orientation session, safety equipment (including helmets), and unlimited mileage on a late-model Harley. Riders are responsible for fuel costs, must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid motorcycle class driver’s license.

For more information, visit www.eaglerider.com or call 1-888-900-9901.

Angler’s ParadiseIf you like fishing, this is the place for you. Located just six miles southwest of Branson, the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery is an angler’s dream. The hatchery produces more than a million catchable trout each year, many of which are released into nearby Lake Taneycomo, which allows year-round fishing. Visitors can tour the 211-acre hatchery, watch a brief video on trout production, observe hundreds of thousands of trout, hike a network of nature trails and see a variety of wildlife. Other than fishing permits and stamps, all other activities at the facility are free.

For more information, visit mdc.mo.gov/areas/hatchery/shepherd or call the Visitor Center at 417-334-4865.

ocal Color

Branson is the perfect place to experience the beauty of the Ozarks, renowned for it wealth of caves and natural springs. Table Rock Lake and State Park are only a few miles from Branson, offering boat and personal watercraft rentals, parasailing experiences, and excursions on a 48-foot catamaran. Henning State Forest, located a short distance west of Branson, is a hiker’s paradise with many self-guided trails and an observation tower that offers unparalleled views of the Ozarks. Spend some quality time with Nature while you’re in Branson.

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Gigantic TitanicRelive the last hours of Titanic’s fateful maiden voyage at the Titanic Museum, the world’s largest museum attraction. The two-story museum is a half-scale replica of the original ship and features 90-min-ute, self-guided tours that give guests the sense of being a passenger on the 1912 luxury liner. Interactive exhibits and more than 400 personal and private artifacts al-low visitors to touch the frozen surface of an “iceberg,” explore first class state-rooms and third class cabins, send SOS signals from the ship’s wireless room, and come to know some of Titanic’s passen-gers and crew in a very personal way.

The museum is open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, with tours beginning every 15 min-utes. Admission is $18.82 for adults, $9.99 for children (ages 5-12). Family packages (two adults and up to four children under age 18) are available for $49.28.

Advance ticket purchase and other details are available at www.titanicbranson.com.

All Aboard!Billed as Branson’s most classic attrac-tion, the Branson Scenic Railway offers a 40-mile excursion through the Ozark foothills. You’ll begin your journey at the Branson Depot, a classic piece of Americana that’s nearly 100 years old and features railroad memorabilia of all sorts. Travelers can relax in either a domed car with expansive windows or coach seating aboard vintage train cars from the 1940s and 1950s as they hear stories about the history of the railroad and the surrounding communities. The train departs at 9:00 am, 11:30 am and 2:00 pm, Mondays through Saturdays. The cost is $22.50 for adults and $13.50 for children 12 and under.

For an extra special treat, guests can ex-perience a four-course candlelight dinner and enjoy the luxurious traveling style of long ago. The Dinner Train is available on Saturdays only at 5:00 pm, and the cost is $50.50 per person.

Visit www.bransontrain.com or call 417-334-6110 for more information.

Honoring VeteransThe captivating stories of the men and women who defended our liberties during the 20th century are immortal-ized in Branson’s Veterans Memorial Museum. The museum’s ten great halls house sculptures, murals, historical arti-facts, memorabilia honoring all branches of service, and the museum’s hallmark – the world’s largest war memorial bronze sculpture. Weighing 15 tons and stretch-ing 70 feet in length, the sculpture depicts 50 life-size men, each modeled after a combat soldier from each of the 50 states, storming a beach. This incredible collec-tion of wartime exhibits covers the heights and depths of human experience.

Open 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, the museum’s ad-mission costs are $13.50 for adults, $12.50 for veterans, $10 for teens (ages 13-17), and $5 for children (ages 5-10). A discount is available for groups of 15 or more.

For more information, visit www.veteransmemorialbranson.com or call 417-336-2300.

lasts from the PastFounded in 1903, Branson’s history is rich with Ozark Mountain culture. The town was settled by farmers who came from the mountains of the Carolinas, Tennessee and Kentucky. They were descendents of farmers from Scotland, England and Ireland, and brought their ancient heritage with them. The area began to find economic success as a vacation destination in the early 1900s, initially drawing visitors who were attracted by the local lake and scenic countryside. The addition of a lighted Adoration Scene in December of 1949 drew thousands of additional guests and put Branson on its way to being the city it is today. Branson has worked hard to successfully blend industry and tourism, and now welcomes more than 100,000 visitors a day to their small town in the Ozarks.

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ome HungryWhen visitors are ready to take a break and re-energize, they’ll find plenty of options in Branson. Offering every-thing from buffets and fast food to fine dining with gourmet fare, Branson has a restaurant experience for every palate. Rumor has it that Branson has more buffet restaurants per visitor than any other U.S. city. Many local restaurants offer discount coupons online at www.sunny dayguide.com/branson/br_coupons.php, and the site also features discounts at many of the area’s attractions, so check it out before you head to convention.

Visit www.fra81st.org to learn more about the conven-tion hotel, schedule, and special events.

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Pre-Convention Board Meeting (sometimes referred to as the “Pre-Board”)Although the convention officially begins with the joint opening ceremonies (see below), the National Board of Directors (NBOD) meets the day prior to discuss old busi-ness, perhaps hear special presentations, and prepare for upcoming Convention business sessions. Although all shipmates are welcome to observe the meeting, only NBOD members are permitted to speak during the gath-ering. When all business has been conducted, the floor is opened for all shipmates who wish to make comments under “the good of the order.”

RegistrationWhile every member of the FRA is welcome at con-vention, only accredited delegates have the privilege of speaking from the floor or voting on Association resolu-tions. To be a convention delegate, shipmates must be a member of an FRA branch and register at convention. (FRA Members-at-Large are not eligible to be delegates.) Shipmates who are planning to attend convention should contact their branch secretary and ask to be included in the branch’s list of prospective delegates.

Registration is a simple process, made even easier and faster if shipmates have their membership cards with them. The registration tables are usually open early in the week and an hour prior to the first business ses-sion of each day and again for two or three hours in the early afternoon. (Specific hours will be posted at convention.) When you register, you will receive a del-egate kit, which is a book containing all officers’ and committee reports, resolutions to be considered by committees and delegates during the convention, and a section where delegates can track the voting strength of each branch. Voting strength is very important if the need arises for a roll-call vote (see “Business Sessions” below). Delegate kits are useful reference materials as

the convention progresses, and are only available at the registration tables.

Delegates will also receive a convention program (which outlines the schedule of events for the week), a con-vention journal (that includes welcoming wishes and messages of support from shipmates, ladies, branches and units, as well as advertisers who support the con-vention), a nametag, and usually some discount coupons and other goodies when they register.

Joint Opening CeremoniesThe official kickoff of convention is the joint FRA and LA FRA Opening Ceremonies. The convention is called to order and honored guests are escorted into the hall to the sound of syncopated clapping, a long-standing FRA tradition that originated with shipmates clapping on the off-beat to a specific melody played to herald guests’ ar-rival. Following the introduction of the guests, the colors are presented, and the National Chaplain offers an open-ing prayer, during which shipmates remove their caps and place them on their left shoulder. (Caps are removed in this manner as a sign of reverence during all prayers and also when the Bible is opened and closed at the be-ginning and end of each business session.) The National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance are followed by re-marks from our keynote speaker. A Two-Bell Ceremony is also a part of the ceremonies, during which departed shipmates are honored. The Two-Bell ritual is unique to FRA and is outlined in the Association’s Rituals and By-Laws. Opening Ceremonies conclude with greetings and announcements from FRA’s National Executive Director and the FRA and LA FRA National Presidents.

Attendees usually dress as they might for church or din-ner at a nice restaurant, wearing coat and tie/business attire for this event. PNPs often wear red jackets and LA FRA members traditionally wear white to the Opening Ceremonies.

Whether you’re a convention newcomer or a seasoned delegate, there

are some traditions and protocols about the FRA National Conventions that

are unique to our organization. To the uninitiated, our conventions might

seem…well…a little unconventional. If you’re new to the whole convention

scene, don’t hesitate to find a more experienced shipmate to assist you.

As a starter, here are some tips for navigating Convention Week...

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A Note for Active Duty/Reserve PersonnelService dress, service khaki or tropical blues are appropri-ate for all FRA Convention events, with the exception of the Installation and Banquet/Ball. Dinner or dress uniforms are suggested for the Installation, Banquet and Ball.

Welcome Aboard PartyAs its name implies, this is a social event to welcome all the shipmates and ladies to convention, and it’s a great opportunity to renew old friendships and make new ones. Beverages are available and light snacks are also usually served. Music and dancing are also featured high-lights of the evening.

Business SessionsFRA is one of the most democratic organizations of its kind, with convention delegates determining the future of the Association. Prior to convention, branches, standing national committees and the National Board of Directors may submit proposals, called resolutions, for new ini-tiatives and changes to the Association’s governing documents which determine policy. These resolutions are referred to the appropriate national committees for consideration. At convention, committees meet to dis-cuss these resolutions (see “Committee Meetings” below) and the chairmen report their committees’ rec-ommendations and rationale to the delegates during a subsequent business session. The delegates then vote to approve or reject recommendations on resolutions. Committee chairmen also present their annual reports to delegates during the business sessions.

Robert’s Rules of Order are used as the parliamentary guideline for the business sessions, with motions being presented and seconded, followed by discussion and a vote. Registered delegates may make motions and sec-onds from the floor, and all delegates are authorized to cast a “yea” or “nay” in voice votes. If a clear major-ity cannot be determined by a voice vote, the National President may request a roll-call vote.

In the event of a roll-call vote, a representative from each branch will stand at the floor microphone and cast his/her branch’s vote on the issue at hand. The size of the branch determines the number of votes that may be cast. This voting strength is determined by the number of branch shipmates in good standing at the time of the vote.

Many shipmates choose business clothes (suits or coat and tie) for these sessions, while others elect to wear business casual attire, such as FRA polo shirts, a sweater or collared shirt.

Committee MeetingsOver the course of Convention Week, members of convention standing and special committees will meet to discuss the resolutions that have been referred to them. The Americanism-Patriotism; Budget and Finance; Constitution, Bylaws and Resolutions; Employees’ Pension; FRA Building; Honorary Membership and Certificate of Merit; Hospitals, Welfare and Rehabilitation; Membership and Retention; Public Relations; and Youth Activities Committees (as well as special committees ap-pointed by the National President) will hold meetings in smaller rooms throughout the convention hotel. (Specific locations will be noted in the convention program.) These meetings are open to all shipmates. Guests are asked to sign in, but do not traditionally participate in the discus-sion. They are observers only; however the committee chairman may recognize a visitor’s question or ask for an opinion from a guest.

Special LuncheonsDuring the course of Convention Week, there are a num-ber of luncheons for specific groups. For example, there is usually an FRA and separate LA FRA luncheon for Past National Presidents, Past Regional Presidents, and sitting Regional Presidents and Vice-Presidents. These events are for those particular groups only and will be designated as “closed” in the Convention Program. Other luncheons, like the LA FRA National President’s Luncheon, are open to convention delegates. Reservations and payment for these events are required in advance. Click the “Meals” tab at www.fra81st.org to make your reservations for these events, as well as the Banquet and Ball. (You will be asked to print a form and submit payment by mail.)

WorkshopsThroughout Convention Week, there will be a series of workshops available to convention attendees. These seminars are usually held in the early morning (and of-ten include a continental breakfast), at midday (including a light lunch), or later in the afternoon. The workshops cover a variety of topics including presentations by TRICARE contractors, nutritionists, financial advisors, representatives from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA), and members of the NHQ staff.

Installation of OfficersOn the last evening of convention, the newly elected FRA and LA FRA national officers are installed and take their respective oaths of office. The event is rich in tradition and includes a “capping” ceremony, during which a new officer receives his/her cap. Regional Presidents receive gray caps, while the National President receives a red cap. (Past National Presidents are often referred to as “the Red Hats.”) All shipmates and ladies are invited to attend the formal ceremony and no reservations are required.

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Banquet and BallImmediately following the installation ceremony, shipmates, ladies and guests are invited to attend the annual banquet and ball. Reservations and payment are required in advance for this event, which is a formal dinner and dance.

The attire for the installation and banquet and ball is formal/semi-formal. National officers traditionally wear tuxedos, but suit and tie is appropriate for other shipmates. Ladies often wear cocktail dresses or gowns.

Post-Convention Board Meeting(sometimes referred to as the “Post-Board”): The last event of Convention Week is the post-convention meeting of the NBOD. Although not officially part of convention, this meeting is the first opportunity for the newly-installed national officers to meet and conduct business. As with the pre-convention meeting, all shipmates are welcome to attend, and will be given an opportu-nity to speak under the good of the order at the end of the meeting.

Other Helpful Hints:

Veterans History ProjectAt this year’s convention, representatives from the Veterans History Project (VHP) will be available to record oral statements from some of our shipmates about their military experiences. The VHP is conducted under the auspices of the Library of Congress in an effort to preserve first-hand histories from American war veterans. Shipmates interested in telling their stories should contact Convention Vice Chairman PRPNC Dave Combs upon arrival at convention.

Hospitality RoomBranches and Units 364, 316, and 161 are hosting this year’s convention and Hospitality Room – a casual environment to share food, fellowship and fun. Beer, wine and liquor are available. The Hospitality Room is often the site of fund-raising raffles and is open to all shipmates and ladies.

Reserve EarlyThis year’s convention is being held in Branson, Missouri, a well-established tourist destination that welcomes more than 100,000 visitors per day. FRA and LA FRA members are eligible for a discounted rate of $79 per night (dou-ble occupancy) at the Radisson hotel, but availability is limited. Shipmates and ladies are encouraged to make their reservations early by calling 417-335-5767 or 888-566-5290. Be sure to let the reservation desk know you are with the FRA or LA FRA.

In addition to hotel reservations, convention delegates are also encouraged to reserve early for the banquet or any special luncheons. Meal reservations may be made online by clicking the “Meals” tab at www.fra81st.org. (You will be asked to print the form and submit payment by mail.) Shipmates and ladies without Internet access may contact Convention Secretary PRPNC Norm Combs at 816-847-6562.

Don’t miss a thingConvention newsletters and other convention details are available at www.fra81st.org.

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nEws FRom THE BRAnCHEs

BRAnCH 6 BALTimoRE, md.

Front Row: shipmates Albert dilworth, william Johnson; Back row: President Joe shrader, Horace smith, william wienhold, spencer Errickson, Clarence Logan and nancy maksin.not shown are s/ms Frederick Conti and James Haskins.

BRAnCH 1 PHiLAdELPHiA, PA.

Cutting the cake for his 91st birthday is shipmate george H. smith (center) with Branch 1 President Bill Reese (left) and shipmate usCg Captain Ted Harrup (right) at usCg sector delaware Bay, Philadelphia PA, 4 February 2008.

BRAnCH 115 ALLEnTown, PA.

L-R: Co-Chairman of the Americanism Patriotism Committee sm Charles Fry, gabriele Augustine [Honorable mention 12th grade], Chairman Americanism Patriotism Committee sm Paul E. geissinger Jr., stephanie Augustine [2nd place winner 7th grade].

BRAnCH 59 CHEyEnnE, wy.

Branch 59 presented two Essay Contest winners with 1st place checks and certificates. L-R: Casey mckee (7th gr.), his mother Jody, Americanism Chairman mike Archer, unit 59 Bod member Luane Hastings (grand-mother of noel udell), noell udell (8th gr.), her mother susan, and grandfather shipmate Larry Hastings.

BRAnCH 8 vALLEJo, CALiF.

Past Regional President west Coast gary Blackburn along with Branch 8 secretary Bob mattson and Branch 8 President Art Corbett present 50 year pin, 50 year certificate and life membership card to shipmate Charles F. Royer. L-R: Branch 8 secretary Bob mattson, PRPwC gary Blackburn, shipmate Charles Royer and Branch 8 President Art Corbett.

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nEws FRom THE BRAnCHEs

To submit a photo for News From the Branches, please e-mail a photo as an attachment in jpeg format to FRAtoday@fra.org or mail a high-quality photograph to frA today, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Please include a brief description of the photograph and include the names of those pictured. Laser prints and scanned copies of photographs cannot be accepted.

BRAnCH 136 minnEAPoLis, minn.

Branch President Thomas dooley presents shipmate david kain with his 40-year membership certificate and pin.

BRAnCH 117 oRLAndo, FLA.

The branch installed a flag pole at the newly commissioned veteran’s Park in orlando, Fla.

BRAnCH 281 nEw oRLEAns, LA.

mike Braden, george Thomas, and Russ Bennetts in the veteran’s day Parade passing in review.

BRAnCH 371 BATon RougE, LA.

Branch President Jay Johnson introduces Branch officers and members to the Fund Raising facility that has generated much needed funds to the Branch and unit and an added benefit of recruiting new mem-bers. L-R: are Rob Cobb, James window, Leon Perkins, President Jay Johnson, mike galik, martin dalton, Tommy Bourgeois and PRPsC Jerry Pugh.

BRAnCH 146 JoHnsonviLLE, PEnn.

L-R: Branch vP Ray Leary, Pres. dick Leary, RPnE Jim Brown, secretary dave Carver, during the RPs recent visit to a branch meeting.

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uss James miller (dd 535) 7–11 October 2008, Baltimore, MD. Contact Roy Klock, 842 Beach St., Reading, PA 19605, 610-929-8343.

CAsu-12 29–1 October 2008, Charleston, SC. Contact Ms. Mary Behrick, 120 Willowbend Ln., Summerville, SC 29485.

diesel Fast Attack submarines Association 2–5 September 2008, Fort Worth, TX. Contact Dan Craw, 8607 46th Ave. Cir. W., Bradenton, FL 34210, 941-761-2234, dcraw1@tampabay.rr.com.

Headquarters marine Corps Association 21–24 October 2008, Quantico, VA. Contact John Wheeler, 770-961-8356.

nAs Twin Cities 23–23 August 2008, Minneapolis, MN. Contact Jack Iverson, 4928 142nd Path, Apple Valley, MN 55124, thetarjei@charter.net.

nAvFAC Eleuthera 7–8 November 2008, Pigeon Forge, TN. Contact Charles Sitzlar, 194 CR 369, Water Valley, MS 38965, 662-234-7843.

newport dealeys 25–28 September 2008, Nashville, Tenn. Contact Marc Arsenault, 98 Oxbow Rd, Charlton, MA 01507-1544, 508-248-5072, marc-a@charter.net.

old Antarctic Explorers Association 5–7 November 2008, Pensacola Beach, FL. Contact Les Liptak, 5220 Choctaw Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32507, 850-492-1666, lcliptak@cox.net.

PB4y-2 PRivATEERs of PATRon vP-28, vPHL-8 & vPB-108, 1945 thru 1952 23–25 September 2008, Las Vegas, NV. Contact Jim Miller, 11411 Sunnyslope Dr., Kansas City, MO 64134, 816-761-8724, Patronvp28@aol.com.

PBy, All sqdn’s and Tenders 1–5 October 2008, Denver, CO. Contact Al Skinner, 8391 Globe Run Rd., Petersburg, PA 16669-3644, 814-667-2380, abpondside@aol.com.

uss Becuna (ss-319) 10–12 October 2008, Philadelphia, PA. Contact Kenn “Ski” Szablewski, P.O. Box 361, Voluntown, CT 06384, 860-376-5238, Becuna319@juno.com.

uss Black (dd-666) 23–26 September 2008, St. Louis, MO. Contact Gerald “Jerry” Johnston, 1010 Market St., Suite 1740, St. Louis, MO 63101-2052, 314-259-7848, gerald.johnston@ngc.com.

uss Braine (dd-630) 14–19 November 2008, Pensacola, FL. Contact Jim Rountree, P.O. Box 457, Stockton Springs, ME 04981, 207-470-7438, dd630@yahoo.com.

uss Caliente (Ao-53) 9–12 October 2008, San Antonio, TX. Contact Bob Howard, 2674 Buena Vista Ave., Walnut Creek, CA 94597, 925-939-3662, rhoward328@aol.com.

uss Consolation (AH-15) 1–5 October 2008, Colorado Sprngs, CO. Contact Lou Johnson, 3705 Hayes Manor Lane, Olney, MD 20832, 301-774-6746, Ljohn43493@aol.com.

uss davis (dd-937) 16–19 October 2008, No. Myrtle Beach, SC. Contact Peter Lennon, 5 Skyline Drive, Plainville, CT 06062-2612, 860-747-8761, ptlii37@aol.com.

uss diablo (ss-479) 1–5 October 2008, Gatlinburg, TN. Contact Robert V. “Johnny” Johnson, 321-255-3181, johnsonb@brevard.net.

uss Enoree (Ao/TAo-69) 2–6 October 2008, Kansas City, MO. Contact Floyd A. Carriker, 714-534-3025.

uss Fletcher (dd/ddE-445, dd-992) 24–27 September 2008, Cincinnati, OH. Contact Norb Bender, 419-628-2974, jnorb@ussfletcher.org.

uss greenwich Bay (AvP-41) 2–5 October 2008, Virginia Beach, VA. Contact Martin Brown, 910-582-3791, AVP-41@Comcast.net.

uss guadalcanal (LPH-7) 17–19 October 2008, Virginia Beach, VA. Contact Lois Jencks, Ocoee, FL, 407-654-1125, ljencks@cfl.rr.com.

uss Hamul (Ak-30/Ad-20) 16–20 September 2008, Baton Rouge, LA. Contact Garry Grimes, 763-537-7592, garryagrimes@comcast.net.

uss Joseph strauss (ddg-16) 18–21 September 2008, Tucson, AZ. Contact Mike Flood, 520-586-0256, mflood@powerc.net.

uss kretchmer (dE/dER-329) 24–28 September 2008, Orlando, FL. Contact Bob Doyle, 6330 W. Patterson, Chicago, IL 60634, 773-736-0955.

uss L.y. spear (As-36) 16–19 October 2008, Herndon, VA. Contact Bill Barnard, 9638 Fox Hunt Cir. N., Douglasville, GA 30135, 404-374-5687, Bilz52@hotmail.com.

uss mAHAn AssoCiATion (dd-364/dLg-11/ddg-42/ddg-72) 24–28 September 2008, Corpus Christi, TX. Contact Jim Storey, 7108 FM 305, Grandview, TX 76050, 817-517-5776, jrs5546@yahoo.com.

uss Piedmont (Ad-17) 1–5 October 2008, Oklahoma City, OK. Contact C. Ken Werth, P.O. Box 398, Markesan, WI 53946-0398, 920-398-2510.

uss Plymouth Rock (Lsd-29) 18–21 September 2008, St. Louis. Contact David Dortch, 870-236-3725, tazrhondave@yahoo.com.

uss PoLLuX (Aks-2 & Aks-4) 8–12 October 2008, Covington, Ky. Contact Glen Broxson, 4518 Peaden Rd., Pace, FL 32571, 850-994-0416, glenbroxson@aol.com.

uss Prarie (Ad-15) 28–1 October 2008, Saratoga Springs, Ny. Contact Mary Pelton, 613 Little Canada Rd., Central Square, Ny 13036, 315-676-3280, mpelton613@alltel.net.

uss Pursuit (Am-108/Ags-17) 9–12 November 2008, Branson, MO. Contact John Schulz, 951-682-1743, jcsgunner@aol.com.

REunions

REuNIONS continued on page 35

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In Memoriam TAPs

Abbott, James Issac, HMC MALAdams, James R., MSGT 089Addis, John T., SPCM 105Allard, Jake, BM1 260Anderson, Ronald R., ADCS 068

Banks, Robert E., AOC 049Bernard, Joseph A., ET1(SS) 163Betis, Ben, MSC 004Blankenship, Carlton, MS1 186Bohus, Arthur G., RMCS 057Borrajo, Richard, AEC 146Bowden, James B., BMCM MALBowen, Edwin E., Jr., POC USN MALBrigham, Arthur L., ATC 022Broussard, Grady J., TMC 291Bryant, William J., PO1 USN 057Buche, Ernest A., AEC MAL

Cafolla, Rocco E., SSGT 175Calhoun, Henry E., Sr., HMC MALCassidy, James R., HMC 201Caton, Edwin C., HMC 003Caylor, Aaron M., Jr., EOH2 071Clement, Jerry E., ETC 089Comparetta, John M., AZC 346Conaway, Paul R., AG1 091Cornett, Billy D., yNCM 050Couch, Charles W., CM1 052Cranford, Leon B., LT USN MALCrews, H., ADRC MAL

Darnold, Wendell G., RMC 020Davis, Glenn A., ADRC 010Dealy, Albert W., SMC 313De Clairville, Henry W., OMC MALDe Shong, Paul W., MM1 020Desjardins, Edmund J., CSC 099Dewhirst, George R., SKC MALDixon, Harold U., SC2 MALDorsett, Roy J., Jr., MSGT 091Doughty, Roy L., ABHC MALDuncan, Eugene, CPO USN MALDunn, Frank W., HMC MAL

Eno, Joseph E., GySGT 043Everoski, Wallace F., SKC 126

Ferrero, Steven J., HTC 221Fisher, Jackson, DT1 327Flatbush, Walter F., yNC 267Foster, Roy E., BMCM 094Freeland, Charles L., Jr., yN2 234

Gable, Charles H., ADRC MALGellerson, James D., POCS USN MALGlass, William W., LT USN 182Goldsberry, Rollin L., Sr., HMCS 136Gordon, Lawrence R., AOC 358Graf, Charles F., AD1 124

Grau, Walter S., LTJG USN 006Green, Frank L., MSGT 380

Haas, Charlie, SGTMAJ 022Hames, James W., PO1 USN 136Hart, Keith, LCDR USN 182Hartoon, Robert L., GMM1 060Hatcher, Robert E., CWO2 USN MALHayden, Henry C., AO1 055Hesting, Paul A., HTC 161Higgins, Brian J., ICC MALHoffman, Charles W., ADCS 022Horgan, James, AMHC 334Howard, Haskel E., USN RET 110Howard, Herbert Duane, HM1 136Howell, Roy, BM1 022Huckins, William J., ABHC 057

Jackson, Billy F., ADC 096

Kaapana, George L., Jr., SKC 046Kaufman, Arnold, yNC 024Kerr, Robert H., CPO USN 008Kesler, James T., BMC 105Kirkland, Clarence K., ADC MALKlabe, Chester William, EM2 MALKoons, Donald C., PTC 101Koyle, Myron, CDR USN 324Kraiker, Fred W., PO1 USN 001

Lawter, Zeb V., SK1 MALLay, Clarence W., GMCS 015Lewis, Milton F., TMC 219Lowery, William H., STC 050Lunde, Henry M., yNCM 070

Mackey, Robert L., yNC 085Maninga, Frederick W., HTC 138Mannion, William, SK2 017Maramba, Bernardino, SD3 247Marks, William, HM1 120Matheson, Floyd W., FTC 120Matthews, Billie J., CWO4 USN 094Matthews, William W., ADRC 091McConnell, Charles A., ENC 012McCroskey, Allen G., AEC MALMcCullough, Edward W., ETRC 307McDill, Kellis D., RM1 MALMcDonald, William R., MAJ USMC 200McGinty, William B., LCDR USN 024McKenzie, Charles, DCC MALMcKillip, David, AE1 MALMcNeal, James L., ENC MALMcRae, Elbert W., SH1 280Medcalf, Gene G., HM1 057Meredith, Lynden R., CPO USN 274Miller, Forrest W., RMC MALMiller, James C., MAJ USMC 061Moloney, Martin T., GMC 018Moore, William, PO1 USN MALMoore, William K., AWCM 091Mortenson, Lawrence E., SCPO USN 136Mulligan, George H., HTCS MAL

Napier, Lionel, BM1 MALNelson, Malcolm A., CSC MALNeunsinger, John N., SGTMAJ 050Nicholls, Stanley K., LCDR USN 046

Oldfield, Orville R., ENC 256Olsen, Arthur R., EN1 MALOlson, Joseph H., ADRC 326Osborne, Claude A., SKC MALOtto, Roger E., CSC 008

Patrie, Frank N., QMC(SS) 022Peak, James E., SK1 327

Phelan, William J., EMP 124Phelps, James C., CAPT USN 162Piro, Michael R., UT1 MALPokas, Chris, QMC 060Powers, Richard A., AOC 096Preston, John L., LT USN MALPungello, Joseph, GySGT MALPurdy, James W., FTC 296

Radford, Charles H., BM1 361Randall, Jerome W., ATC 163Reed, Thadus M., HMC 021Reeser, Harold, ADRC MALReid, James J., CPO USN 027Reynolds, Wayne, AE3 172Rider, Fred W., Jr., HT1 047Rodgers, Donald J., QM1 147Rodriguez, Pablo, CPO USN 091Rose, Charles F., SCPO USNR 310Rowback, John E., AECS 091Rubeis, Enzo, BTCS 108

Sabettini, Anthony, HMC 099Samuels, Thomas H., ADRC MALSaunders, Sheldon, MSCM 289Schattle, Herbert P., POCS USN 049Schock, Harold H., AMSC 042Schultz, Robert U., CPO USN MALScrapchansky, M. G., Jr., TM1 020Sequin, Albert J., DC1 099Smith, Patrick, RMC MALSmith, Roland E., Sr., GMC MALSmith, Tedd R., AEC 234Spivey, Hubert M., BMC 046Stanton, James F., QMC MALStefanko, Andy, PO1 USN MALSterry, Jabez W., ENCS(SS) MALStevens, Charles G., POCM USN 358Stewart, Tommy A., GMGC 163Stiles, Harry D., BM1 MALSwartout, William J., CTOC 027

Taylor, William F., MMC MALThomas, Kenneth E., SKC MALThompson, Donald R., CAPT USN 162Tinney, Patrick, AME1 MALTrieber, Louis, AME1 MALTrojan, Lawrence E., CPO USN 163

Vann, Purser I., EMC MALVavra, Adam L., ADC MALViegelmann, Oscar, ICC 091Vincent, Theodore, ADR2 022

Wade, John E., ADCS 099Wahlberg, Robert M., EMCM(SS) 317Waites, Ronald E., BMC 070Waldron, Clifford T., CSC 126Walker, Theodore J., Sr., SGTMAJ 208Wall, Larry, PO2 USN MALWamsley, Eugene A., MS1 028Webb, Charles R., CPO USN 102Wenner, William H., BM1 317Williams, Delmar, MLC MALWise, George W., DKCS 099Wolf, Raymond J., ADCS 156Woodard, James A., GySGT 029

yoder, Robert M., PNC 142

Zabielski, Alexander J., ENC 366Zarate, Rafael, SD3 247 Zummo, Cosmo G., TDCS MAL

Names in red indicate 50 year continuous members. J indicate a Past National officer.

nAmE BRAnCH nAmE BRAnCH

nAmE BRAnCH

http://www.getmaxoderm.com

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uss Richard E. kraus 4–8 May 2008, Philadelphia, PA. Contact Bob Simon, 856-933-9483, simon-dd849@erols.com.

uss Robinson (dd-562) 11–14 September 2008, Boston, MA. Contact Arthur W. Bowne, P.O. Box 3682, Galveston, TX 77552, 409-935-2253, ajbowne@comcast.net.

uss sierra (Ad-18) 2–5 October 2008, Portsmouth, VA. Contact Dan Romando, 8 Tisdale Road, Whiting, NJ 08759, 732-849-4657, drom1111@aol.com.

uss silverstein (dE-534) 20–23 October 2008, Mt. Pleasant, SC. Contact C. E. Johnson, 1304 Bald Mt. Cove, Hiawassee, GA 30456, 706-896-4901.

uss Taconic (AgC-17) 2–6 October 2008, Washington, DC. Contact Chuck Tiemeyer, 14238 Spanish Wells Dr., Hudson, FL 34667, 727-869-1977, Ctmyer@welotv.net.

uss Takelma (ATF-113) 11–15 September 2008, Branson, MO. Contact Jimmy Ballard, 24 South 3rd St., Paris, AR 72855, 479-438-0262, rray45@msn.com.

uss Terrell County (LsT-1157) 2–4 October 2008, Branson, MO. Contact George O’Connell, 7138 Little River Tpke., #1000, Annandale, VA 22003, 571-247-6962, groconnell@lst1157.com.

uss Theodore Roosevelt (ssBn-600) 5–8 June 2008, Jacksonville, FL. Contact Norman Hebert, 352-669-4444, nor5man@aol.com.

uss Ticonderoga (CvA-14, CvA, Cg-47, Cv) 14–18 May 2008, Atlantic City, NJ. Contact Vic Godfrey, 609-294-0955, vicg636@verizon.net.

uss wasp (Cv/CvA/Cvs-18) 28–3 October 2008, Branson, MO. Contact Richard G. Vanover, 6584 Bunting Road, Orchard Park, Ny 14127-3635, 716-649-9053.

uss westchester County (LsT-1167) 9–12 October 2008, Sacramento, CA. Contact Nick Brumley, 916-381-2658.

uss white Plains (AFs-4) 18–21 June 2008, San Diego, CA. Contact Steve Edmison, PO Box 233, Roy, UT 84067, 801-985-3665, afs-4@comcast.net.

uss wilkes-Barre (CL-103) 9–12 October 2008, Washington, DC. Contact Bob Didonno, 283 Spruce Brook Road, Berlin, CT 06037, 860-690-9215, VntgGuitar@aol.com.

vP Association (vP-92, 911, 912, 913, 914, 915, all years) 20 September 2008, Bedford, MA. Contact William Hanigan, 781-585- 4950, haniganwilliam@aol.com.

Looking FoR …

Anyone who served at nAs kenitra (1960-1962) Contact James Jacobs, jacobs55@sbcglobal.net or 760-745-1853.

PCC Roger d. salmons (Ret.) (wife utae) Last known address working as a civilian at Ship Repair Facility; Box 8; FPO Seattle 98762 (yokosuka, Japan) in 1978-1981. I was stationed at Fleet Mail Center, FPO Seattle 98760 (yokohama, Japan) during this period. Please contact PC1 Patrick F. Huston (Ret.), 455 Wimpole Lane SW; Palm Bay, FL 32908-3374, 321-984-2293, phuston001@cfl.rr.com.

Any medical personnel working the nsA danang Hospital on 6 August 1969 Please contact gordonr@blomand.net.

members of Company 445 at great Lakes (1958) I lost my yearbook right after leaving boot camp. Would like to hear from others in that company and possibly borrow year book for a short period to reminisce and share with grandchil-dren. Please contact Phil Landry (for-mer ET1(SS) and CWO4), USNR (Ret.), at betzlandry@netscape.com.

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of msg Larry zenn Last known to be serving with 4th Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, CA. Contact Roger E. La Pointe, Sr., 2126 Trenton Rd., Clarksville, TN 37040-6631, relcll@aol.com.

AEC dale manners Last known station was NARTWO, Glenview, IL.Ak2 Bobby Hess Ak2 Last known station was Naples, Italy. Please contact Roy Fore at roynchris4@wmconnect.com.

Anyone with information about Thomas Anthony deCroti (wife Florence Curtis deCroti) He was my grandfather and I am hop-ing to learn more about his life. I have a photo of him wearing a khaki uniform on the deck of the USNS H.F. Hodges. If you know of him or other crewmem-bers from this ship, please contact Ramona DeCroti, 11 Moonlight Terrace, Montpelier, Vermont 05602, ramona.decroti@state.vt.us.

Anyone from Company 56-418, nTC san diego, 1956 Our company commander was GMC Klinefelter. Contact ABF1 Charles J. Flenniken (Ret.) at 865-691-7614 or unclegrantv@aol.com.

Ak1 Raymond medley Last known address was Barbers Point in the 1980s. Contact AKC Harold Miller at Navchief7@hotmail.com

these notices are published on a space available basis. Notices must be submitted in writing. E-mail fratoday@fra.org or mail your request to: FRA, Looking for…, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA, 22314.

Members can post reunions online at www.fra.org, submit to reunions@fra.org or mail to: FRA Reunions, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

REuNIONS continued from page 32

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LA FRA nEws

message from the national President

ThE AuxiliARy yEAR is half over and we have been actively engaged in our work, even though we had some very wicked months of bad weather. Our members are continuing to take that extra step in all their volunteer activities. The Veteran’s Affair and military hospitals and their patients are being well served. Various youth organizations benefit from our caring and experience. The elderly, home-bound and those in assisted living have visitations, home baked goodies, also care packages. The members are informing and encouraging fellow members and others to get involved in the issues before our Congress and to be an informed voter on Election Day. If this sounds like a recruiting advertisement, unasham-edly, it is. If you are not a member, please join; if you are a member, who has become inactive, please come back. We need your help. For all of you who are out there working in our “trenches,” we appreciate you and keep up the good work.

All of the above leads to: It is once again time for nominations and elections. We cannot have an Auxiliary without some of you stepping forward as volunteers in the capacity of Unit officers. The paperwork has to get done. If we all do our part, the job is easy. Just say “Yes!”

Pilgrimage to the Mast of the Maine and Tomb of the Unknowns is a very memorable event each year. A glorious sight: Our members lined up in white, with flags (Ensigns and Unit banners), unfurled, to pay homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. A big thank you to all who attended and helped make this service unforgettable.

As most of you are aware, I chose our Welfare and Rehabilitation program as the National President’s Project for 2007–2008. We have been fortunate this year, thus far, we have not had a national disaster, but there are life-changing disasters in individual lives that we need to address. That is what this fund is all about: members helping members in their time of greatest need. Please find it in your heart to be generous, so this fund can grow and help meet the needs of today as well as tomorrow.

Gail DolowayNational President

Fran hoadley is the editor of LA frA News and the frA today Liaison.

Southeast Regional Midyear(L to R): Lucy Freeman, Mary Kullawinski,

Nancy Hunter, PRPSE Jean Burke, pre-senting check to NP Gail Doloway for the

National Welfare/Rehabilitation Fund from Unit 290, Mayport, Fla.

Initiation of Members of Unit 89 Atlanta, Ga.

Members in the above picture had led or participated in initiation services but had

never been officially initiated them-selves. (L to R): Elvira McClain, Helen

Chambers, Mary Daube, Unit President Reta Fitton, National President Gail

Doloway, Sandra Sims, Unit Secretary Judy Garrison, and Ercel Blair.

NP Gail Doloway presenting 35-year pin to PNP Betty Pounds at Unit 147’s

February Meeting.

Unit 126 Meeting (L to R): PNP Pat Garwood Unit 91,

PNP Virginia Wilson Unit 126, Unit 91 President Helen Blair, JrPNP Sandra

Robbins Unit 91, PNP Kay Lancaster Unit 91.

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member servicesFra125 N. West streetalexaNdria, va 22314-2754