Silicon Valley Chapter Military Ofcers Association of America
Volume XVII Issue 3The
CDR Kyle Thomas, USN United States Naval Reservists The chapter’s March luncheon speaker Social Hour: 11:00 AM will be CDR Kyle Thomas, USN, Commanding Officer of the Navy Operational Luncheon: 11:45 AM Support Center (NOSC), 995 E Mission Street, Luncheon is $30.00 San Jose. He will provide an illustrated See Back Page for Reservations presentation about the organization and its Form and Directions personnel, including the importance of America’s Navy, the NOSC mission, a CALENDAR OF EVENTS description of the force, advancements in 5 Mar Board Meeting 10:30 AM technology, and worldwide deployments. CDR 19 Mar Luncheon 11:00 AM Thomas is highly experienced, having already 2 Apr Board Meeting 10:30 AM commanded a Navy Operational Support 16 Apr Luncheon 11:00 AM cont'd pg 3 PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE Hi All, I think we had a good speaker at our February meeting. Because the presentation was going to be about Vietnam, I invited the members of Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 201 to join us. We had 14 of them accept the invitation. The good news is that we received three new members from this group. We always know what the next presentation is going to be. If you belong to a group that would enjoy it, invite them to lunch. They do not have to be eligible to join, but that OFFICERS, BOARD, AND CHAIRS PRESIDENT:CAPT John Hassenplug, USN would be a bonus. 650-224-7638 1st VP: Vacant 2nd VP: Vacant Speaking of membership, we should all be recruiting for new Secretary: COL Warren Enos Interim AUS 408-245-2217 members. The Board has several vacancies that need to be filled. We Treasurer: CDR Carl Honaker USN 408-599-8532 Past President: Cpt Charles McDougald USA are without a 1st or 2nd Vice President, and the Secretary would like to 415-722-1009 take a break as he has had the job for many years. DIRECTORS & COMMITTEE CHAIRS CALMOAA CAPT Gil Borgardt USN 650-342-1270 We had several cadets from the Santa Clara ROTC unit at lunch. Chaplain Col Don Bradley USAF 650-592-0915 It was nice seeing and meeting the next generation of warriors. We Chapter Outreach CWO5 Robert Landgraf USMC 408-323-8838 Commissary/Exchange Advisory support both the Santa Clara and San Jose ROTC units with a total of vacant Friends-in-Need (FIN) Program four $1,000.00 scholarships for a total of $4,000.00. We are currently Col Don Bradley USAF 650-592-0915 Navy League Liaison LCDR Tom Winant USN 650-678-7120 short, approximately $1,000.00 for this year’s round of scholarships. I Membership/Recruitment CAPT John Hassenplug, USN 650-224-7638 know many people donate near the end of the year, but we need a Personal Affairs CAPT Robert French USN 650-549-8896 Programs donation now for this vital program. If you have the ability to donate CAPT Paul Barrish USN 408-356-7531 ROTC now, please send your donation to the PO Box or bring it to the lunch CWO4 Patrick Clark USA 831-402-8548 Surviving Spouse Liason vacant meeting. Scholarship Capt Gio Picazo USAF 669-258-5057 Hopefully by the time you get this, you have voted. Voting is Travel (Space-A Advisory) vacant Veteran Affairs one of the rights that we have fought for, as military members. It makes LtCol Neil Miles USAF 408-929-1142 Web Master no difference which party you vote for, the important point is that we LtCol Mike Sampognaro USAF 408-779-7389 Sergeant at Arms vacant have the right to vote. We need to exercise that right in every election, Strategic Planning Capt David Down ARNG 408-202-9360 big or small. Legislation LtCol Neil Miles USAF 408-929-1142 See you at the March lunch meeting. The Chapter Board meets at the Moffett Field Museum, Moffett Federal Airfield, the first NEVER STOP SERVING Thursday of the month at 10:30am. DIRECTORS EMERITUS John CAPT Lloyd McBeth USN 408-241-3514 RETIREE ACTIVITIES OFFICE (RAO) Travis 707-424-3904 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS www.travisaf.mil tab Programs tab RAO LT Gerald F. Arnold, USN -- Ret Bulletin Editor LtCol. Mike Sampognaro, USAF 1LT Earl L. Frazier, USAF -- Ret [email protected] 408-779-7389 CAPT John Mascali, USNR -- Ret 1LT Dennis S. Whittaker, USA In Memorium Mayetta Behringer see pg 11 May 20, 1918 - Jan. 13, 2020 Janet Ely Sept 14, 1941 - Dec 26, 2019 ` - 2 - MARCH LUNCHEON cont'd range of operations from peace to war. To that end, Center (NOSC) in the Midwest. its active component staff is dedicated to provide What is a Navy Operational Support Center? the best possible administrative, medical, In short, it’s the Navy Reserve Center. NOSC San instructional and logistical support to the assigned Jose provides administrative, training, and medical Navy reservists. Every effort is made to ensure that assistance to approximately 300 Selected Reserve reservists are ready for mobilization and are able to Sailors serving with about a dozen augmented units integrate with active duty forces throughout the from the Bay Area to Monterey, utilizing a small but globe. In return Sailors are, likewise, dedicated to dedicated full-time staff. While many people may be maintaining their ability to mobilize on a moment's familiar with the term “Selected Reservists” or notice, and to provide fully integrated operational SELRES, a better way to describe these individuals support to their active duty commands year round. is “Citizen Sailors.” That’s because these men and CDR Thomas is a native of Shreveport, LA women – who are doctors, nurses, police, and a 2001 graduate from Northwestern State firefighters, teachers, students, stay-at-home parents, University of Louisiana where he earned a and a multitude of other careers in their civilian lives Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. He has – are simultaneously Navy Sailors, Chiefs and experience with Naval Operational Support Center Officers. Orlando; he was assigned to command Navy The command's primary mission is to provide Reserve Forces Command (NRFC) in New strategic depth and deliver operational capabilities to Orleans; he was assigned to NOSC Peoria, IL as the Navy and Marine Corps team and Joint forces Commanding Officer. He attended the Naval War from peace to war. The NOSC ensures Navy College where he earned a Masters of Art (MA) Reservists maintain a high state of mobilization Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. readiness for rapid deployment if called upon while He is a Certified Defense Financial Manager. also providing routine support contributions to Fleet ______missions around the globe. The NOSC is responsible SOURCE: NOSC San Jose for the mobilization and demobilization process for both individual augmentees and unit deployments and supports the families of those Reserve Sailors deployed in support of military operations worldwide.
Members at February Lunch
NOSC San Jose NOSC San Jose exists to support the fleet. It provides mission-capable units and individuals to the February Speaker Navy and Marine Corps team throughout the full - 3 - FEBRUARY SPEAKER REPORT VIETNAM Lieutenant Ostenberg’s rule was that the platoon he Vietnam War infantry basic load for one leader was 1st in and last out. Tspecific platoon included rucks filled with 3 days food (2Cs and 1 LRP ration), a pair of dry socks and powder, 3 bandoliers of 5.56 ammo, 4-6 30-round clips, heat tabs, poncho with baby blanket, plus rope or cord. Each soldier carried at least 2+ belts of M60 ammo and 1 block of C4 that was not for that soldier’s use. There were no steel helmets, sleeping bags, or flak vests. The troops went to work by Huey helicopter, dodged mountain terrain to a sometimes “hot” landing zone (LZ), made a careful search, and often engaged a determined enemy.
Making a run for it
On one mission the platoon captured a Vietnamese cache of weapons and ammunition including rocket-propelled grenades, small arms ammunition, mortar rounds, and satchel charges. Soldiers even came across a captured U.S. 60mm mortar with plenty of ammunition plus canteens and other equipment. There was humor displayed on the battlefield as well including this cartoon from Stars and Stripes. “It’s my C.O., you tell him how close you are!”*#
Armed to the teeth The chapter’s February luncheon speaker was Major General Robert B. Ostenberg, USA (RET), who in 1971 commanded a platoon with the 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry. “In my case, I carried a light load, not much more than a spare pair of socks. We did not walk trails or move in a straight direction for very long, so we made our own trails. It was dangerous, and we had a close call, displaying an image of a bullet wound fired by a sniper. With the coming of Typhoon Hester, it was necessary to construct the Vietnam infantry hooch —using ponchos—and live six days on three days of food supplies, but there was plenty of fresh- water.” Just before the Huey choppers arrived for Good for a chuckle extraction, the platoon would fire a 360 degree General Ostenberg said his Cavalry platoon was “Mad Minute,” then load up for home base. Then literally the last American troops out of Chu
cont'd pg 5 - 4 - Lai. Seen here is an M552 Sheridan Tank which A native of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, General fired many varied rounds (Rifled 152mm main gun) Ostenberg began his career as an enlisted soldier, which included a laser guided Schillelagh Missile earning a college degree, completing Officers and a Flachette Round. His platoon had 3 tanks, 6 Candidate School, and following the Vietnam M113 armored personnel carriers (no personnel War moved to the Army Reserve where he served inside except the driver), 1 mortar track. All tracks in every leadership position from platoon leader had a .50 caliber machine gun and the 6 personnel to division level command. His awards and carriers had 2 M60 machine guns. Inside the tracks decorations include the Bronze Star with “V” was just ammunition, some personal items, and food. device (with Oak Leaf Cluster), the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantry Badge, and the Parachutist Badge. ______SOURCE: Luncheon Speaker
USNORTHCOM REPORT nited States Northern Command U(USNORTHCOM) is one of eleven unified combatant commands of the U.S. military. The command is tasked with providing military support for non-military authorities in the U.S., and protecting the territory and national interests of the United States within the continental United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, The M552 Sheridan tank Bahamas, and the air, land and sea approaches to The platoon was ordered to Black Hawk Hill these areas. It is the U.S. military command near Da Nang and next to Marble Mountain. Lt. which, if applicable, would be the primary Rob, now a 1st lieutenant, had a personal jeep defender against an invasion of the U.S. assigned; the area was great for patrolling; there was a local village “with some wonderful Vietnamese people,” there were demonstrations of the locals fishing using hand grenades, quickly obtaining enough fish to feed everyone for days; there were images of armored vehicles “swimming", as well as weapons systems such as the quad-50 machine gun and M-16 with starlight scope; and always present was the infamous Bamboo Pit Viper.
Peterson AFB, Colorado Springs, CO The chapter’s February luncheon speaker was Major General Robert B. Ostenberg, USA (RET), who provided an illustrated presentation of his Vietnam War experiences as a young U.S. Army lieutenant as well as a July 2005 to October
cont'd pg 6 - 5 - 2008 tour of duty as Director, Reserve Forces, Bear H (Tupolov-95) bomber was intercepted off with additional duty as one of five Domestic the coast of Alaska, the U.S. offered the crew a Attack Assessors, at North American Aerospace place to refuel if they would just disclose when they Defense Command (NORAD) and United States were coming, but no deal. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. His intent in part and indirectly was to suggest ways in which the military might assist local authorities should there be a catastrophic event in the San Francisco Bay Area. The commander of NORAD AND USNORTHCOM is a dual-hatted U.S. four star general officer. The chain of command from Commander or N/NC is very short to the President and Prime Minister. When MG Ostenberg was on Russian bombers under U.S. escort duty from 2005-2008 Admiral Tim Keating USN and General Renuart, USAF, were present. “As a There are two major USNORTHCOM Combat Attack Assessor, after the Commander missions—Homeland Defense and Civil Support. and Deputy Commander US, I was one person The organization conducts operations to deter, away from briefing and then executing the prevent, and defeat threats and aggression aimed at POTUS plan. The four assessors were validated the United States, its territories, and interests within every 30 days.” the assigned area of responsibility and, as directed by the President or Secretary of Defense provides military assistance to non-military authorities including consequence management operations. The image below depicts President Bush and Secretary of Homeland Security, Michael Chertoff, visiting the N/NC following Katrina and during Rita.
NORAD missions include Aerospace Warning (Process, assess and disseminate intelligence and information related to manmade objects in the aerospace domain); Aerospace Control; and Maritime Warning (Process, assess, and disseminate intel/info related to maritime President Bush at upper right areas and international waterways & the maritime MG Ostenberg said that contrary to some approaches to the U.S. and Canada; at one point a cont'd pg 7
- 6 - believers this is not a USNORTHCOM mission. VIETNAM WAR COMMEMORATON PIN Major General Ostenberg is a graduate of cross the Nation, Americans united to Principia College and graduated in 1969 with a Athank and honor Vietnam veterans and BA degree in economics, and later began his their families for their service and sacrifice. This military career as an enlisted soldier. His military was the main focus of The United States of education includes Airborne School, Jungle America Vietnam War Commemoration—a Operations, Armor Officer Basic and Advanced national 50th anniversary commemoration, Courses, the U.S. Army Command and General authorized by Congress, established under the Staff College, and the U.S. Army War College. Secretary of Defense, and launched by President In July 2005 through 2008 when he retired, he was Barack Obama in 2012. the Director, Reserve Forces, at North American The February luncheon speaker Major Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and the General Robert B. Ostenberg, USA (RET) United States Northern Command presented a special Vietnam War (USNORTHCOM), Peterson Air Force Base, Commemoration lapel pin to luncheon attendees Colorado. who served on active duty during the period ______November 1,1955 to May 15,1975, regardless of SOURCE: Luncheon Speaker location.
More than 50 chapter members and guests attended the luncheon, including 13 members of Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 201; 5 of those members are also MOAA Silicon Valley Chapter members. In addition, there were 3 VVA members also SVC members who did not attend the luncheon. It was a delight to introduce these Veterans at the luncheon and take time to honor them for their Vietnam War service. These and a couple dozen SVC members and guests lined up after the luncheon to accept a lapel pin. Now and Always VVA 201 attendees include Gerald We’ll be There. Arnold, a U.S. Navy LT assigned to a Naval H construction battalion at Da Nang who was involved in building and maintaining roads, airfields and hospitals; Walter Carroll, U.S. Air
90228 Force MSgt assigned to USAF Communications 1-800-247-2192 • www.moaainsurance.com Command units stationed in Udorn and Korat, Thailand 1973, recipient of the Meritorious cont'd pg 9 - 7 - The San Jose State University Jewish Studies Program, the Burdick Military History Project, College of Social Sciences, History Department and Veteran Students Organization; The California State Guard Military Museum Command; Hillel of Silicon Valley and the Jewish War Veterans present "Uncommon Valor: Jewish-American Medal of Honor Heroes" A Day to Honor and Study Military Service Free and Open to the Public Sunday, March 8th 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Tower Hall San Jose State University One Washington Square, San Jose
11:00 AM: Introductory Remarks Dr. Robert Katz, Exhibit Organizer Major General Jay M. Coggan, Commanding General California State Guard 2020 Jewish Studies Levinson Memorial Lecture Judge Quentin L. Kopp “American Jews and Military Service” Morris Dailey Auditorium, Tower Hall 1:00 PM: Video: "True Honor: Jewish War Heroes" Courtesy of the Jewish War Veterans 1:30-5:00 PM: 2020 Burdick Military History Symposium: Jewish Military History Morris Dailey Auditorium, Tower Hall Moderated by Dr. Jonathan Roth, Professor of History, San Jose State University "Zionists in the Red Army during the Russian Civil War" Ignat Ayzenberg, Coordinator of Jewish Studies, San Jose State University “The Boys of Camp Ritchie: From refugees to instruments of justice” Lieutenant-Colonel Erik Brun, California State Guard Military Museum Command "Jewish Military Chaplains: An American Tale" Dr. Ronit Stahl, Assistant Professor, Department of History, U.C. Berkeley
For more information contact Dr. Jonathan Roth at [email protected]
- 8 - Service Medal; Richard Francis, a Navy LT, VVA Chapter 201 SVCMOAA members who was a P-3/Orion aircraft command pilot who were absent at the luncheon included LCDR during Operation Market Time missions over the Francis McVey, USN, P-3/Orion Mission Gulf of Tonkin 1970-71; and Michael Commander during Operation Market Time Frangadakis, CMSgt 129th Spt Gp, CANG—he missions over the Gulf of Tonkin 1970-71; CAPT was a SP5 Medical Technician assigned to the U. Keith Ott, USN (RET), SVC chapter Past S. Army Medical Brigade (Medical Civil Action Treasurer; and, LtCol Jack Wells, USMC, a Patrol), Pho Bai-Nha Trang 1968-69. Forward Artillery Observer, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Da Nang, Vietnam 1968-1969. It was clear chapter members and guests in attendance at the February luncheon were Vietnam Veteran-focused and took time to honor their service, valor and sacrifice, and their families. ______SOURCE: VVA Chapter 201 MAJOR RENOVATION TO THE BILTMORE IN 2020 t will be business as usual for January Iand February 2020. Earl Frazier served with the USAF; On March 2nd, the renovation will start Wayne Heimsoth was a SP4 assigned to the U.S. with the Hops Bar & Grill and Napa Valley Room Army 8th Infantry Division, Bad Kreuznach, space. This space will be converted to staff offices, Germany; Rose Herrera, United Veterans storage, and our new fitness center. Council Vice President/former San Jose Vice On May 11th they will start the lobby and Mayor, was a USAF Sergeant assigned to 18th Atrium. There will be a major renovation with lots Tactical Fighter Wing, 313 Air Division, Kadena of demolition, as they are increasing the ceiling Air Base Okinawa 1973-74; Dennis Whittaker, height in the front desk area by demolishing the a U.S. Army Ranger 1LT assigned to 196th Light second floor. When it is done, the Atrium area will Infantry Brigade, 23rd Infantry Division, Chu be our restaurant for bar/dinner. We can still host Lai, Vietnam 1971—a recipient of the Bronze your luncheons during this time, but you would be Star and Purple Heart. in the meeting space at the back of the hotel, and VVA Chapter 201 members who are you would need to access it through the back of the members of SVC MOAA include John hotel since the lobby would be torn up. This should Hassenplug, chapter President; MG Kent be completed by October 20th. Hillhouse, USA (RET), 11th Armored Cavalry On September 22nd 2020, they will start on Regiment in the Iron Triangle, Vietnam, 1967-68 the meeting space, and won’t be done until —2 Silver Stars, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart; December 2nd. So we would not be able to Bob Kadlec, Captain, USAF, XO of the Strategic accommodate your October or November luncheon. Air Command 376 SW, Okinawa, supporting While all of this is going on they will be reconnaissance flights over Vietnam 1973-75, renovating our guest rooms in shifts. MSM, JSCM & AFCM; CWO5 Bob Landgraf, So, when it is all said and done, we will be USMC, Chair, SVC Military Outreach reopening as the Delta Hotel by Marriott. It is going Committee; Chuck McDougald, CPT, USA to be a messy, painful year, but when it is all said Immediate SVC Past President. and done it will be worth it. It should be beautiful. - 9 - CDR KYLE THOMAS COMMMANDS counterpart in the other services. Custom has NOSC established that this ceremony be formal and he Navy Operational Support Center San impressive. It is designed to strengthen that TJose conducted its Change of Command respect for authority which is vital to any military ceremony Saturday, June 1, 2019, on the Moffett organization. The parading of hands at quarters Field parade grounds, amid a sea of officers and and public reading of orders stems from those days sailors in white uniforms. CDR Peter DiCaro, when movement of mail and persons was a very USN was relieved by CDR Kyle Thomas, USN. slow process. This procedure was designed to ensure that only duly authorized officers held command and that all aboard were aware of its authenticity.
Navy Operational Support Center San Jose has been the home of local Naval Reservists CDR KyleThomas accepts command since its construction in 1948. The original command was called Naval and Marine Corps The heart of the ceremony is the formal Reserve Center (NMCRC) and was part of a reading of orders and the relieving officer stating, large-scale building campaign to provide “I relieve you, sir!” This simple procedure is adequate training facilities for reservists duplicated hundreds of times daily throughout the following WWII. In 1999, Naval Reserve Center navies of the world as each watch officer passes Santa Clara relocated from Moffett Field to responsibility to his or her relief in the conduct of integrate with and form Naval Air Reserve each ship’s routine. Center San Jose. In 2003 the name changed to CDR Thomas is a native of Shreveport, LA Naval Reserve Center (NRC) San Jose and then and a 2001 graduate from Northwestern State again in 2006 to Navy Operational Support University of Louisiana where he earned a Center (NAVOPSPTCEN) San Jose. Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. He has NAVOPSPTCEN) San Jose along with 12 experience with Naval Operational Support Center augment units located throughout the Bay Area Orlando; he was assigned to command Navy from Lathrop to Monterey has over 300 Navy Reserve Forces Command (NRFC) in New drilling reservists. It continues to prepare Orleans; he was assigned to NOSC Peoria, IL as qualified personnel for mobilization. Commanding Officer. He attended the Naval War The Change of Command ceremony College where he earned a Masters of Art (MA) witnessed is not prescribed specifically by U.S. Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. Navy regulations but rather is an honored product He is a Certified Defense Financial Manager. of the rich heritage of naval tradition. It is a I am a United States Sailor. I will support custom wholly naval without an equivalent cont'd pg 11 - 10 - and defend the Constitution of the United States of everywhere they went, including a flight down to America and I will obey the orders of those Chile in 1963 with their four children. She flew appointed over me. I represent the fighting spirit in Powder Puff Derbies and International Air of the Navy and those who have gone before me to Races all over the country. During this time, she defend freedom and democracy around the world. raised their family of four. Linda, Susan, Kim, I proudly serve my country’s Navy combat team and Scott grew up in a two-pilot household, two with honor, courage, and commitment. I am of them inheriting the "flying gene". While in committed to excellence and the fair treatment of California in 1961, she was the only woman to all. fly in an F9F Navy jet and break the sound ______barrier. During their years in Chile, she flew all SOURCE: NOSC San Jose over South America and was usually the first female pilot to land at their airports. After Bill's Mayetta Behringer retirement, they traveled to China in 1988 and Germany in 1993, enjoying the culture and researching their family history. In 2001, Mayetta visited Spain with an ElderHostel tour for 20 days. She loved the museums, culture and wine. When Bill retired from the Navy in 1969, they spent a year in Michigan so he could finish his degree at the University of Michigan. In 1970, the family relocated to San Jose, California. Mayetta then became a full-time flight instructor, a Squadron Commander in the Civil Air Patrol and she joined the Santa Clara Mayetta Behringer May 20, 1918 - Jan. 13, 2020 Valley chapter of 99s. As an active member of San Jose the 99s, she edited the local newsletter for 27 years, until the age of 96. She flew to visit PILOT, ARTIST, WIFE, MOTHER, family, she flew for charity, and she acted as a GRANDMOTHER mentor for high school students interested in Mayetta was devoted to her family, her flying, until the age of 94. During her time flying, and her church. She earned her pilot's license flying, she was awarded the 99s Pilot of the Year in 1946, after graduating from the University of in 1981 and 1987, was inducted into the Forest of Wisconsin. She then married her college sweetheart, Friendship in 1994, honored by the FAA with the John Wiedeman. Johnny died the year she earned Wright Brothers Master Pilot award for over 50 her pilot's license, so she immersed herself in flying years of safe flying in 2006, and honored with a and joined the 99s, an international organization of commendation from the city of San Jose in 2018. women pilots. A fellow member of the 99s She had accumulated over 10,000 hours of flying convinced her to move to California, where she met time. William Behringer, a Navy fighter pilot, whom she Mayetta joined the First Congregational married on December 3, 1949. He passed away in Church of San Jose when she and Bill settled 1996 after 47 years of marriage. there in 1970. An active member of the church, Mayetta and Bill moved frequently during she served on the Women's Fellowship his career, living in California, New Jersey, Texas, committee and worked in the front office weekly Chile, Washington DC and Michigan. She flew until she was 94. She volunteered with the - 11 - cont'd pg 12 church for several events and encouraged SCHOLARSHIP FUNDING others to do the same. Another organization SHORTFALL dear to Mayetta was Books Aloud, where she ne hundred year-old Tuskegee Airman volunteered for many years, recording books OCharles McGee was honored by President for visually impaired individuals. Donald Trump February 4th during the State of the A side interest of Mayetta's was art – Union Address, after an honorary promotion earlier mostly painting, but also sketching. Her in the day to Brigadier General, U.S. Air Force. hallways were lined with her oils, sketches, and During the speech, McGee’s great-grandson Iain pastels, and she even painted some trees Lanphier, who wants to join the new U.S. Space directly on the walls of her houses, Japanese Force, received a special mention by the president. style. She loved painting flowers and But will this young man have the financial resources landscapes, but also experimented with various one day to enter a university and obtain a Science, other stills. Her family and friends are Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) fortunate to have her paintings on their walls or related degree, a likely requirement for an now and she even sold some, a number of officer’s commission and Space Force assignment? years ago. Mayetta is survived by her four children – Linda (Tony) Lanzer, of Illinois; Susan (Royal) Moore, of Arizona; Kim (Dave) Dahmen, of California; and Scott (Janet) Behringer, of Colorado. In addition, she is survived by nine grandchildren - Robin, Follow the leader Andrea, Drew, Heather, Evan, Amber, Garrett, Silicon Valley Chapter leaders are in the Kyle and Stephanie and nine great- process leading to the award of four (4) $1,000 grandchildren - Danylo, Steffan, Yuri, Luka, university scholarships at the April luncheon Maksym, Nathan, Taras, Joshua and Nora. meeting; however, the scholarship fund is still short The family will host a celebration of the needed funds. A timely donation to the life on a later date. Donations in her name may scholarship fund represents an opportunity to help a be made to Books Aloud, at www.booksaloud. highly promising second or third year ROTC cadet; org/donate.html or to the Amelia Earhart although there is not a large amount of money Memorial Scholarship Fund, at www.ninety- involved, this kind of encouragement is powerful nines.org/donation.htm and results in an increased probability of finishing the program and graduating, receiving a commission, and serving the country with honor and distinction. It’s conventional wisdom that education is crucial, that scholarships are a huge part of paying for higher education, and that donating to scholarship programs is important. Even a small amount of money is a motivator, a signal that Silicon Valley Chapter members care and are investing in the young person’s future; that graduation and a degree really pays off with an opportunity to serve the country - 12 - as a commissioned officer. These are times when SENATE BILL 3110 ADVANCES tuition and board-and-room costs are going up enator Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced fand it can be very hard to get through university SJanuary 31st that the bill he introduced, programs with tangible success. S.3110, Identifying Barriers & Best Practices Act, A Harvard Business School and has been passed out of committee unanimously by University of British Columbia joint study found the Veterans’ Affairs Committee. The legislation, that spending as little as $5 on someone else led originating in the Bay Area by Reserve Organization to demonstrable increases in happiness. “In other of America (ROA) Chapter #63 and direct support words,” study contributor and Professor Michael of Silicon Valley Chapter leaders, and moved I. Norton said, “people needn’t be wealthy and forward by Ro Khanna (D- CA 17), is designed to donate hundreds of thousands of dollars to charity help service members receive proper benefits. to experience the benefits of prosocial spending; According to Senator Tillis, “This legislation small changes—a few dollars reallocated from directs the GAO to conduct a 3 year study of oneself to another—can make a difference.” disability and pension benefits that were provided to Multiply this with other givers in a community veterans who served in special missions, such as and you potentially have a variety of health pilots and divers, and those who served in the Guard benefits including increases in happiness and and Reserve Components. The multi-year study altruism. would examine disability and pension data from The College Board’s annual studies 2008 to 2018 in order to identify whether any underscore these individual and collective barriers exist specifically for these veterans. benefits with fascinating statistics. Four year Additionally, the study requests recommendations college graduates pay on average 78% more in for overcoming those barriers for veterans, if such taxes each year than high school graduates, thanks barriers are identified.” to their higher earnings and greater workforce Currently Guardsmen and reservists report participation. College grads are also reported to that service-connected injuries are sometimes not be healthier due to smoking less, exercising more properly documented by medical staff due to the and having lower obesity rates, “These nature of their service and the tempo of the work differences not only affect the lifestyles and life required to be conducted during that shortened time expectancies of individuals, the reports suggest, of service. Consequently, they experience difficulty but also reduce medical costs for society as a in obtaining disability benefits. The goal of this whole. study is to ensure that all disabled veterans have So, a scholarship, even a modest amount access to and are receiving correct services, and that of money, benefits the individual in many ways, no parties are unfairly disadvantaged when and benefits our society. The more this chapter attempting to access these benefits invests in local university students the more “I am proud that this bill which would advantages we’ll reap in the future. A donation of reaffirm our commitment to our nation’s veterans even a small amount of money can make a real was passed unanimously by the VA committee,” difference when the money goes to the Senator Tillis said. “I have been working closely scholarship fund. Ultimately that small with my colleagues on a bipartisan basis to build investment could mean that the gift changes a support for this important issue, and I will continue student’s life and the community in innumerable to work to see that this bill is passed by the Senate.” ways—and that, as a donor, is priceless. ______SOURCE: News Release SOURCE: Board of Directors
- 13 - FRIENDS IN NEED and its ROTC program. He was stationed on haplain (Col) Don Bradley, USAF-Ret, has active duty with the Air Force at Pope Air Force Cvolunteered for the position Chair, Friends Base, Fayetteville, North Carolina, adjacent to the in Need, with the appointment effective February Army’s Fort Bragg and later served with the Air 4, 2020. He succeeds CDR Al Mouns, USN National Guard (ANG) 129th Rescue Wing at (RET), who continues busy with a variety of other Moffett Field. assignments. We are delighted to welcome Chaplain As the chapter’s chaplain Don provides (Col) Don Bradley, USAF-Ret, as the chapter’s spiritual advice and counsel but is generally seen at new Chair, Friends In Need, which represents a board meetings and monthly luncheons offering significant additional duty to what he has been the invocation and benediction. He is Roman doing for Silicon Valley Chapter for some time. Catholic and not an ordained minister; however, he Don’s contact information is listed on page 2 of is active in the faith and has served as a quasi- The Bulletin. chaplain with the Knights Templar organization. ______He comes from a very diverse background. SOURCE: Biography As Chair, Friends in Need, Don will be available to provide assistance to members in challenging times. By tradition, in case of serious illness or death he will express the chapter’s sympathy to the next-of-kin and offer assistance as needed. Essentially, Don will assemble and coordinate the efforts of a number of individuals and community organizations which in the past proved useful to the membership. The focus internally would be the Personal Affairs Committee members which have experience dealing with military requirements and accessing benefits; externally, professionals in different fields and with a variety of skills are available. Don earned the Ph.D degree from the University of Michigan and for many years served as a clinical psychologist as well as a business planning and organizational development consultant. You can be sure he is empathetic and able to handle situations of great stress and sadness, and is comfortable being involved in some of the most intimate moments of a person’s life. He is highly capable providing emotional support and stability in times of both happiness and grief. Don’s objective is to assemble a team of specialists qualified to assist our members in time of need. Chaplain Bradley was born in Long Beach and attended the University of Southern California
- 14 - ROTC COMMISSIONING CEREMONY will bear truth faith and allegiance to the same; ater this spring San Jose State University that I take this obligation freely, without any L and Santa Clara University will conduct mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and its graduation ceremonies bringing significant joy that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties and satisfaction to many of its students. At the of the office on which I am about to enter. So same time the Air Force and Army ROTC help me God.” detachments will hold commissioning ceremonies Friends and family are invited to celebrate for those cadets who have completed the program. the commissioning of the recent graduates. The There will be opportunities for chapter ceremony often begins with the singing of the members to present MOAA certificates and U.S. Air Force and Army song followed by the medals to cadets at earlier annual award events as National Anthem. Then a guest speaker, usually a well as represent the chapter at the later retired officer, gives words of advice and commissioning ceremonies, helping to “pin on the encouragement to the soon-to-be officers. Finally bars.” These very impressive activities take place cadets take the oath to their country, sealing their in late May or early June. admittance into the Officer Corps of the United Cadets are told, “At the end of your time States Military. In accordance with tradition, in ROTC you will have the honor of being family members or friends, yet in many cases the commissioned into the Air Force or the Army, a SVC MOAA representative, pin the 2nd pivotal point in the new officer’s career. During lieutenant’s rank onto the shoulders of the new the ceremony, you will be required to cite the officers. Oath of the Commissioned Officer. The oath has existed since the times of the Continental Army, but was changed a number of times. Finally in 1959 the oath received its current form. Reciting the oath is a rite of passage. It swears your allegiance to the Constitution of this great nation, not to any person or government entity. It’s what makes our country unique, that we put allegiance in a piece of paper that represents the democratic republic ideals that this nation was founded upon. These ceremonies are held in a very pleasant venue on the university campus on a day and at a time when most interested persons might attend. Following the award presentation ceremony there generally is an event featuring the new young officers and ROTC cadre, distinguished guests, family and friends, and of course the ritual cake-cutting and refreshments. Event planners almost guarantee a delightful and memorable time. Chapter members who would be willing to represent the chapter at these kinds of events “I ____, do solemnly swear that I will support are encouraged to contact any chapter leader and defend the Constitution of the United States listed on page 2 of The Bulletin. against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I ______SOURCE: ROTC Detachments - 15 - A LIFE WITH PURPOSE director, or committee chair or member, can be a arry and Donna Ulrich escaped from great platform for serving others and having a lot of LSilicon Valley and discovered the North fun doing it. There’s real profit, personal satisfaction, Coast of California at just the right time. working with others to carry out the purposes of the They’ve had the same Post Office box in organization: (1) camaraderie and friendly good- Trinidad since 1971 and have been freelance fellowship; (2) supporting national MOAA’s photographers for as long. They have written legislative agenda; (3) providing useful services to several books including Beyond the Golden the local military and general communities; (4) and Gate: California’s North Coast; Big Sur to Big stimulating a love for America. Basin: California’s Central Coast; California A recent Wall Street Journal article The Coast; and three volumes of Wildflower books. Virtuous Midlife Crisis, about how people are By publishing and distributing images of some changing their ideas about mid-life reinventions, of the most beautiful places along the West prompted a number of reader responses telling of Coast, they likely brought joy to many people. career changes, finding purpose by serving others, and learning to feel grateful for what they have. George Raymond of St. Augustine, Florida wrote, “The exact instant you realize that you have less time in front of you than you do behind you is the moment the crisis begins. I think this is a healthy thing. I have a few friends who retired, rolled up in a ball and are just waiting to die. Sad to see that but it’s not my problem. My bucket list is still long, and growing. Cape Horn is next.” And Bill Enfield of Sacramento wrote, “At Beyond the Golden Gate 50, I refocused on living a life of purpose—make the Are you experiencing a mid-life or late- world at least a little better for other people because life crisis, defined as a transition of identity and you are alive. Once you look you may find self-confidence that can occur in middle-aged surprising and fulfilling acts are available all around. individuals, typically 45–65 years old, or even Last week I acted as a go-between for a library in later? The phenomenon is described as a Maine and someone who is in prison who is trying to psychological crisis brought about by events trace his ancestry. It all adds up to a feeling you that highlight a person's growing age, inevitable have a reason to continue to be here.” mortality, and possibly shortcomings of Silicon Valley Chapter offers opportunities accomplishments in life. for active participation and serving others. In part people who live a life of purpose According to the WSJ report, “Some age 40 and 50- make a meaningful difference in someone somethings are skipping the stereotypical sports car else’s life. They do things for others without and Vegas weekend and pushing headlong into expectation of personal gain, serve as fitness and mindfulness instead, yet there are a few exemplary role models, and gain as much who said they’d still take the sports car.” Members satisfaction witnessing the success of others as who would like to become part of the chapter’s witnessing their own. As the old proverb says, governance team should contact any board member “A candle loses nothing by lighting another listed on page 2 of The Bulletin. candle.” ______Active participation in Silicon Valley SOURCE; Board of Directors Chapter, particularly service as an officer, - 16 - Surviving Spouse Corner lives of each of the grandchildren, also written by a WRITING YOUR LIFE STORY member of the family. Plus, space would be By Micki Costello provided to include family pictures. ften as we enter the “winter of life” there Instructions and a deadline were sent out to Ois a greater interest in ancestry and each of the family members. All the stories were finding the “roots” of your family tree. collated and then put together into a hardcover book, copies of which were distributed at a family reunion. Though the project took several years to complete, everyone in our rather large family agreed the effort was well worth the time invested. It is indeed a gift to be treasured today and handed down to subsequent generations. ______SOURCE: MOAA Surviving Spouse Advisory Committee Options abound with available ways to do this. In addition to DNA testing there are workbooks that contain space for recording musings, drawings, favorite things, places one has been, or dreams of things done or waiting to happen. And with technology it is even easier to provide a record of a family’s history—and do it earlier in life. Members of my family decided to create a written history of our grandparents’ branch of the family tree as a way to honor their remarkable lives and preserve the story for future generations.
The project was divided into sections: The first would be about our grandparents’ lives. The second section about the lives of each of their eight children, written by a member of that family, including childhood memories, relationships, the various places they lived, military service, significant events, and the like. The third section an overview of the individual - 17 - WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF DEATH
- 18 - HONOR FLIGHT attractions often visited by Honor Flight groups t was a festive gathering at the San include the American History Museum; the U.S. I Francisco International Airport departure Navy Yard/USN Museum; Arlington National gate as about two dozen mostly World War II Cemetery; the Women’s War Service Memorial; veterans prepared to board an Honor Flight and the Lincoln, Korean War and Vietnam War enjoy a visit to the nation’s capital and its Memorials; the Navy Memorial; the Air Force monuments. It’s a wonderful way to recognize and Memorial, the USMC Memorial, and the Caisson honor these very special individuals, those who Barn. gave so much for their country. Keith notes, “We saw quite a few The chapter’s Col Keith Giles, USAF-Ret, monuments, attended a changing of the guard at was invited to participate in an October 20-22, the Grave of the Unknown Soldier, and visited the 2016 Honor Flight from San Francisco to buildings where the caissons and horses were that Washington, D.C. The trip was arranged by the are used in military burials.” The group flew back Bay Area Honor Flight Foundation which makes to the Bay Area on October 22nd. possible visits by American veterans to those It was not unusual for veterans of the memorials dedicated to honor their services and Vietnam War to arrive home at the San Francisco sacrifices. Foundation personnel would like to International Airport, perhaps even recovering transport every single eligible Bay Area veteran from injuries, only to be met by an angry mob of willing and able to get on a plane or a bus and people shouting nasty comments, spitting, and visit their memorial. calling them killers. But other Americans, After an early October orientation meeting, including family and friends holding signs of Keith’s Virgin America flight, now a part of welcome and waving flags, are different. It isn’t Alaska Airlines, departed for the east coast. It isn’t unusual for hundreds of cheering people to unusual for these flights to be met by a police welcome the Honor Flight and Veterans home to escort with sirens, to clear the traffic and let the San Francisco International Airport, proving to be bus full of important elderly men take them to the a very emotional experience. Hilton Crystal City Hotel. The group was off the next day to visit the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Service, Sacrifice, Unity, and Victory. Through stone architecture and bronze sculptures, the World War II Memorial recognizes the ways
Keith Giles, a chapter member and leader for decades and past long-time editor and publisher of The Bulletin, over the years has told of his WWII exploits and travels in the Middle East, Africa, WWII Memorial, Washington, D.C and Europe, as well as his passion for long- Americans served, honors those who fell, and distance cycling. recognizes the victory they achieved to restore ______freedom and end tyranny around the globe. Other SOURCE: Col Keith Giles, USAF-Ret
- 19 - STRATTON WESTPAC 2019 2019 Donations he Great White Fleet was the popular Adams Kachulis T nickname for the powerful United States Barrish Kilmer Navy battleships, with hulls painted a stark white, Bender Landgraf which completed a journey around the globe from Borgardt McBeth December 16, 1907 to February 22, 1909 by order Bradley McDougald of United States President Theodore Roosevelt. Its Branscomb McKee mission was to make friendly courtesy visits to Brekinridge Miles numerous countries while displaying new U.S. Buffin Moorhatch naval power to the world. In mid-2019 the U.S. Concannon Mouns Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) departed Coast Guard Island Alameda for the Western Currey Nulk Pacific Ocean on a very similar mission, returning Del Chiaro Okada safely to California in November. Dunwoody Ott Enos Pogue Fife Piontek Fonda Salas Gaines Schaefer Giles Smith Hadley Thode Hannum Thomas
Hassenplug Wells USCGC Stratton underway to Pearl Harbor Honaker Whitten The Council’s Thursday, January 9th, early $5,774.61 evening meeting speaker was CAPT Bob Little, USCG the Stratton’s Commanding Officer. He provided an extensive illustrated presentation, dozens of images, of the ship’s Western Pacific deployment. The scheme of maneuver included Pearl Harbor, Fiji, Talisman Sabre 2019, CARAT Indonesia, Bakamla, MTA Malaysia, India, MSRT, UN Sanctions, MTA Philippines, IUU Fisheries, Kirabati, and the return to Alameda. This Navy League of the United States Santa Clara Valley Council speaker report is part of a series to be presented in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration between local armed forces and related professional association members. The 418 feet, National Security Cutter had a mission to support USINDOPACOM under the tactical control of Commander U.S. Seventh Fleet. The crew was to (1) engage in professional exchanges and capacity-building with partner nations and patrol and conduct operations as cont'd pg 21 - 20 - directed; (2) strengthen U.S. and partner nations’ small boat familiarization; U.N. Security Council relationships; (3) enhance partner nations’ maritime Resolution events were boat operations in close capabilities; (4) improve regional maritime contact with a very large China coast guard vessel, governance and security; (5) and exercise operations of the high tech SCAN EAGLE drone in interoperability with DoD. the Yellow Sea, as well as manned flight operations; maritime training activities in the Philippines included a reception aboard Stratton, a medical and engineering symposium, and photo ops with several vessels including USS Germantown. The Stratton’s crew became involved in a big way with illegal, unregulated, or unreported (IUU) fisheries enforcement, with a local young woman assisting with often times difficult communications, and the need to board vessels to find out what was going on often dangerous. Having crossed the International Date Line There were joint exercises with the police- operated RKS Teanoai (301), a Pacific class patrol The Fiji country engagement included a boat provided to Kiribati by Australia as part of the reception with Fijian dignitaries, a press conference, Pacific Patrol Boat Program. There were high seas a community relations event with elementary school at the time and apparently it was too difficult to get children, including a session reading to the children; people aboard. Exercise Talisman 2019 in July involved a PHOTOEX with 15 foreign and U.S. military elements with ship handling and aircraft operations in focus, with one special event the landing of a Stratton helicopter aboard the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) ship Canberra; Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia There was an extensive and spirited question included an arrival ceremony in Surabaya, a and answer (Q&A) and discussion session Women’s Leadership Symposium, sharing of following the presentation with topics ranging from resources with Indonesia, and a sports day volleyball details about drone technology, the marital status of match. young women officers (reportedly happily married) The Bakalma stop included PHOTOEX with aboard Stratton, plus use of identification friend or the Indonesian Coast Guard, a Baklama admiral foe (IFF), a radar-based identification designed for visit, ship tours with Baklama, and classroom command and control and used on both ships and visit/board/search/seizure (VBSS) training; maritime aircraft. training activity Malaysa was much the same The Navy League has grown into the featuring a photo exchange, reception, and a repeat foremost citizens’ organization to serve, support of the leadership symposium and VBSS training; and stand with all the Sea Services – the U.S. Navy, there was a warm welcome by India which focused U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S.-flag on an exchange of ship tours, an orphanage ship Merchant Marine. Those interested in participation tour, and a search and rescue symposium. with the Santa Clara Valley Council should contact There were some activities involving LCDR Tom Winant, USN (RET) in Los Altos, Advanced Interdiction Team Maritime Security telephone (650) 678-7120. Response Team West which primarily involved ______- 21 - SOURCE: CAPT Bob Little, USCG ID CARD RENEWAL SVC WEBSITES If you need to renew your Military ID there is a ur Chapter website is www.siliconvalleymoaa. new Office located across the street from the O Navy Lodge. org, a shorter link is www.svcmoaa.org. You can 685 Vernon Ave also get to it from the national MOAA site: Put Mountain View, CA 94043 the cursor over Chapters and select Chapter Commercial: (650) 526-9891 Locator, CA, then Silicon Valley Chapter. From there you may link over to our primary website above. Our home page has links for The Bulletin and eBulletin. B
TRICARE FOR LIFE SERVICE For assistance, contact the Wisconsin Physicians Service www.tricare4u.com 866-773-0404 You can make an appointment Online with Members can report the death of a retiree the RAPIDS Appointment Scheduler through the Retire Activity Office (RAO). The https://rapids-appointments.dmdc.osd. phone number is at Travis 707-424-3904 mil/appointment/building.aspx? You can also notify a MOAA member’s BuildingId=408&AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1 death to: MOAA, Attn: MSC, 201 N Washington St, Alexandria, VA 22314-2539. Or: Call 1-800-234-6622 Or: E-mail: [email protected]. Notify SVC- MOAA by phoning the Membership Chair– see listing on page 2 of The Bulletin. FREE Membership While members 90 years of age and older are not required to pay annual dues, donations to one of the chapter funds (Scholarship, SVC, USO, PAWS, Blue Star Moms, KnowAVet ) are always needed and much appreciated The FBI's website to report a Cyber Incident may be helpful to some. https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx
Don't upset me! I'm running out of places to hide the bodies.
- 22 - Membership Application and Renewal Form ( Revised 4/19 ) Please complete form fully Silicon Valley Chapter Military Officers Association of America Mail to: SVC-MOAA P.O. Box 2 Moffett Federal Airfield, CA 94035 Date______Annual Dues: $30.00 (Surviving Spouse - New member - Those over 90 - Dues are not charged, donations gratefully accepted) Enroll Me As: New Member____Renewing Member____Emeritus( over 90yrs)__Surv Spouse___ Donation to SVC Fund $______Donation to Scholarship Fund $______Donation to PAWS $______Donation to USO $______Donation to KnowAVet $____ Donation to South Bay Blue Star Moms $______(All Donations are Tax Deductible) Total: $______Make checks payable to SVC-MOAA and mail to above address. Status: Active___Reserve____ Guard___Retired____Former Officer___ If you are a new chapter member, please advise us how you learned about this chapter. ______Name:______/______/___/______/______Last First MI Rank Service Your Date of Birth______Spouse’s Name______Address:______/______Number Street (P.O. Box, etc.) Apt/Suite City______State______Zip______/______5 Digit 4 Digit Phone(____)______E-mail______SVC Dues are due 1 January and are separate from National MOAA Dues. SVC Dues support the Bulletin and Administrative functions. Luncheons are self-supporting.
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H n Missin o h t u o S g n i o Deadline to reach SVC no later than 13later Mar. reach than to SVCno Deadline y w please call If you have If notsentin your reservation bythe form SVCMOAA H Times: Social Hour 11:00 AM, Luncheon 11:45 11:00AMHour Luncheon Times:Social AM, n o Nowyou can make reservations online: www.svcmoaa.org h t r o N g n i o G SVC MOAA, PO Box 2 Moffett Federal Airfield, CA 94035-0002 FederalAirfield, Box2Moffett PO SVCMOAA, Buffet - Two - entrees hot with vegetables. andBuffet breads Tea. and Desserts. Wine, Coffee rolls. Assorted Exit at Montague/San Tomas, then Montague, then Right on Laurelwood. on Right Tomas, Montague, at Montague/San then then Exit : 1 0 Nowyou can make reservations online: www.svcmoaa.org MENU: PAYMENT: YOUR IN INCLUDED ARE WHO OF PERSONS NAMES Telephone: ______RESERVE IN THE NAMERESERVETHE OF: IN Mail to: to: Mail Makechecks payableto: A TOTAL of $______of TOTAL A including adonation $______of (circlefor one) Scholarship, PAWS, SouthKnowAVet BayBlueUSO, Moms, Star orSVCFund Pleasereserve ______places thefor 1 ------CutHere------Cut Here------DIRECTIONS: LOCATION – BILTMORE HOTEL -- 2151-- RD,SANTA CLARA, CALAURELWOOD HOTEL –BILTMORE LOCATION Moffett Field,CA94035 Moffett P.O. Box2 P.O. Military Officers AssociationMilitary Officers America of SiliconValley Chapter the of