DOD NEEDS FUNDING FOR BULLETS AND BENEFITS 8 MAY 2014
Arlington National Cemetery
4 FRA NHQ Renovation Set for Summer 2014
13 FRA Takes Members’ Concerns to Capitol Hill, Presents Pinnacle Award
14 History of the FRA: 1950–1959 EXCLUSIVE AT-COST OFFER
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Volume 93 Number 5 1 Featured FRA TODAY
18 ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY: MAY 2014 PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE As Arlington National Cemetery marks its 150th anniversary, the nation’s premier military cem- etery remains a hallowed national shrine and is a place to honor, remember and explore. Departments 2 COMMUNICATIONS 18
4 FROM THE FANTAIL FRA NHQ Renovation Set for Summer 2014 4
6 SHIPMATE FORUM
8 ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL DoD Needs Funding for Bullets and Benefits
14 HISTORY & HERITAGE The History of FRA: 1950–1959
16 MEMBERSHIP MATTERS Setting and Meeting Membership Goals
26 CHANGE OF WATCH
28 REUNIONS 14
30 NEW FRA LIFE MEMBERS
32 TAPS
34 NEWS FROM THE BRANCHES
36 NEWS FROM THE AUXILIARY OF THE FRA Message from East Coast Regional President Toni O’Neill
LOYALTY, PROTECTION AND SERVICE ON THE COVER FRA IS A CONGRESSIONALLY CHARTERED, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION Precision and order are integral parts of military ADVOCATING FOR CURRENT AND FORMER ENLISTED MEMBERS OF THE life … and they are also part of the tribute paid to U.S. NAVY, MARINE CORPS AND COAST GUARD ON CAPITOL HILL. FOR service members in death. Headstones at Arlington MORE INFORMATION ON THE BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP, PLEASE VISIT National Cemetery are precisely aligned, creating WWW.FRA.ORG OR CALL 800-FRA-1924. vistas of uniformity from every perspective. COMMUNICATIONS
2 NATIONAL OFFICERS/BOARD OF DIRECTORS National President Virgil P. Courneya, High Sierra Branch 274 National Vice President John Ippert, Pearl Harbor-Honolulu Branch 46 MAY 2014 MAY National Executive Dir. Thomas J. Snee, Navy Yard Branch 181 Finance Officer Stephen Cox Investing in the Future Lauren Armstrong Junior PNP Mark A. Kilgore, Pensacola Branch 22 National Parliamentarian PNP F. Donald Mucheck, Low Country FRA TODAY THIS MONTH’S FEATURE STORY highlights Arlington National Cemetery Branch 269 and its unwavering commitment to honor those who serve our coun- National Chaplain Dana Wallace, Annapolis Branch 24 try. The nation’s most prominent military cemetery is celebrating 150 REGIONAL PRESIDENTS years of respect and remembrance, and is dedicated to perpetuating that legacy well into the future though updated processes and new Northeast / New England James E. Brown, Staten Island Branch 226 East Coast James Campbell, Chesapeake Branch 40 technologies. Southeast Frederick A. Hill, Mayport Branch 290 Our Spring fundraising campaign is going strong and we hope ev- North Central Rick L. Wangen, Rough Rider Branch 273 ery shipmate is enjoying his/her personalized mailing labels — perfect South Central Russell N. Miller, Capital Area Branch 201 for showing your FRA pride when sending cards, letters or even pay- Southwest Michael F. Fulton, Imperial Beach Branch 289 West Coast Peter J. McNamara, High Sierra Branch 274 ing bills by mail. Each and every donation is greatly appreciated and is Northwest Daniel E. Holloway, Gem State Branch 382 making a difference for the future of the FRA. More than eighty-five
cents of every dollar goes directly to member services and programs, ACTIVE DUTY ADVISORY COUNCIL which makes your donation a great investment in the Association! Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Michael Stevens FRA is also investing in the future by making capital improvements Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Micheal Barrett to your National Headquarters (NHQ). NHQ staff is working to purge Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt unneeded files and materials in preparation for consolidating our oper- ations during and after the construction process. These improvements RESERVE ADVISORY COUNCIL are truly an investment in FRA’s future. Not only will this renovation Force Master Chief of the Navy Reserve Clarence “CJ” Mitchell update the Association’s most valuable capital asset, it will also generate USMC Reserve Force Sergeant Major Anthony Spadaro Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve Force rental income from the vacated office space on the third floor. See NED Mark Allen Snee’s “From the Fantail” column on page 4 for more details. Infrastructure and equipment are essential to FRA’s important FRA TODAY MAGAZINE work, but it’s the shipmates who keep things moving. We often remind Publisher FRA lawmakers that the best ships and weapons are useless without quali- National Executive Director Thomas J. Snee Communications Director Lauren Armstrong fied and well-trained personnel to operate them and FRA is no dif- Managing Editor William Kohudic ferent. This month’s Membership Matters column (page 16) discusses Contributing Photographer Paul Gunther the merits of setting and meeting recruiting and retention goals. Please Design and Art Direction take a moment to consider the four questions posed there. Recruiting FIREBRAND, Alexandria, VA www.firebrandstudios.com Scott Rodgerson new members, retaining current shipmates, being an active and posi- Design Director Production Manager Sandy Jones tive presence in your community and participating in our grassroots
lobbying efforts are the very foundation of investing in FRA’s future. FRA TODAY (ISSN 1935-7192) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY FRA, 125 N. WEST ST., ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314-2754. A MEMBER’S SUBSCRIPTION IS COVERED BY THE MEMBER’S There are many facets to planning for the future and we’ll be carry- ANNUAL DUES. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT ALEXANDRIA, VA AND ADDITIONAL OFFICES. PUBLICATION OF NON-SPONSORED ADVERTISING IN FRA TODAY DOES NOT ing this investment theme into next month’s issue of FRA Today, too. CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT BY THE FRA OR ITS REPRESENTATIVES. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: MEMBER SERVICES, FRA, 125 N. WEST ST., ALEXANDRIA, No matter how old you are or how secure your financial footing, it pays VA 22314-2754. FRA TODAY IS PUBLISHED IN THE INTERESTS OF ALL CURRENT AND to plan ahead. We look forward to sharing a wealth (no pun intended) FORMER ENLISTED PERSONNEL OF THE U.S. NAVY, MARINE CORPS, AND COAST GUARD. ELIGIBLE NON-MEMBERS ARE NOT ENTITLED TO SUBSCRIPTION RATES. ESTABLISHED of information on fiscal preparedness contributed by USAA, FRA’s pre- 1 NOVEMBER 1923. TITLE REGISTERED WITH U.S. PATENT OFFICE. ferred financial services provider. FRA ADMINISTRATIVE HEADQUARTERS: 125 N. WEST ST., ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314-2754 • PHONE: 703-683-1400, 800-FRA-1924 • FAX: 703-549-6610 • E-MAIL: [email protected] • WWW.FRA.ORG
VOLUME 93 NUMBER 5
Lauren Armstrong is FRA’s Director of Communications and serves as the Managing Editor of FRA Today. Please contact her at [email protected]. '" &$'"%&%%$#&#&$%%& $% %% ' %&
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This year, your NHQ is poised Retiree Councils and receptions for to streamline its operations into two award recipients, such as Sailors of the floors of the building and thoroughly Year and Recruiters of the Year. The FRA photo by Chris Slawinski modernize the facility. The museum, second floor will be remodeled to ac- NP Virgil Courneya takes the first ceremonial swings of the sledgehammer to mark the conference room, and mailroom will commodate NHQ staff workspaces. beginning of the capital improvements to occupy the first floor, while the major- FRA’s National Headquarters. ity of the staff will occupy office space on the second floor. Consolidation of operations in this way will allow the third floor to be remodeled for leasing, turning it into a new source of revenue for the Association. No interruption or reduction in quality of member services will occur during the renovation. Our magazine and other member benefits, and most importantly, the work we do on your behalf on Capitol Hill, will proceed as usual. Our commitment to our ship- mates is, except for reading about the renovation in these pages, that you will never know anything unusual is going on at NHQ. Last month, we promised regular updates on the progress of this proj- ect. The ceremonial first swing at the old walls was taken in mid-April by NP Virgil Courneya (pictured in his hard hat at right). The remainder of the demolition and construction work will commence in mid-June and is scheduled to be complete by the end of the summer. Also shown here are the floor plans for the first and second floor renovations. The mail and copy room will remain on the first level, though reduced in size as we no lon- ger need to produce large volumes of printed material at the office. The rest of the first floor will be transformed from its current utilitarian state into 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 5 1 1 3 3 5 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 7 7 7 4 4 4 4 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 1 1 3 3 8 8 8 8 7 7 7 7 13 10 ⁄8 10 ⁄8 13 3 10 ⁄16 10 ⁄16 3 10 ⁄4 10 ⁄4 1 1 10 ⁄2 10 ⁄2 AV N AILABLE Honor the 70th Anniversary of the Battle IN OT ST ORES that Turned the Tide for Freedom Measures An Impressive 15 Inches W Shown much smaller than actual size of 15 inches wide x 13¾ inches tall ide ✭ Large-scale commemorative canvas plaque features unique tributes to the Battle of Normandy: Only 7,000 available; don’t wait to order yours! dramatic artwork, 3 sculpted medallions of Allied he D-Day Commemorative Tribute Plaque comes with a Commanders, and an engraved historical narrative 365-day money-back guarantee, and very strong demand is T Price ✭ Archival quality double matting, presented under expected. This edition is limited to only 7,000 worldwide, so act J a clear glassCHOOSE cover in a handsomeLONG mahogany-toned OR SQUARE now COUPON to acquire yours in FR fourOM interest-free LA YERSinstallments of $24.99 frame each, for a total issue price of $99.95*. Send no money now. Logo & AND DELETE YELLOW BOX Address ✭ Features the acclaimed artistry of James Griffin Just complete and mail the Reservation Application today to J salute the spirit and bravery of those who gave so much on the ✭ Includes a hand-numbered Certificate of day that changed history. Job Code Authenticity www.bradfordexchange.com/dday ©2013 BGE 01-14981-001-BIS J RESERVATION APPLICATION SEND NO MONEY NOW Mrs. Mr. Ms. Tracking Name (Please Print Clearly) Code J Address 9345 Milwaukee Avenue · Niles, IL 60714-1393 City Yellow Snipe YES. Please reserve the D-Day Commemorative Tribute Plaque State Zip J for me as described in this announcement. 01-14981-001-E27941 Limit: one per order. Please Respond Promptly Shipping *Plus $14.99 shipping and service. Limited-edition presentation restricted to 7,000. Please allow 4-8 weeks after Service initial payment for shipment. Sales subject to product availability and order acceptance. J 1 1 10 ⁄2 10 ⁄2 3 3 10 ⁄4 13 13 10 ⁄4 10 ⁄16 7 7 10 ⁄16 10 ⁄8 10 ⁄8 01_B_I_V = Live Area: 7 x 10, 7x10 Magazine Master, 1 Page, Installment, Vertical updated 3/2011 4 4 4 4 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 8 8 1 3 1 3 8 7 8 7 8 8 8 8 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 8 ⁄ 8 8 8 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 1 3 5 7 5 3 1 7 8 8 7 7 7 8 8 7 01_14981_001_BIS.indd 1 6/21/13 10:36 AM SHIPMATE FORUM 6 Atomic Veterans between the radium treatments and these illnesses. At this I enjoyed your article on Atomic moment, nothing is being done. Veterans; however, I dispute your com- I would certainly appreciate the involvement of the FRA MAY 2014 MAY ment on page 26 concerning Military with this ongoing problem. Occupational Exposure. The comment Chic Sale “exposure is limited and usually safe, FRA TODAY the level of exposure is closely moni- FRA Response: Although only mentioned briefly in our re- tored,” has not been true in the history cent feature article (on page 20 of the March 2014 issue), the of the storage and deployment of nucle- VA recognizes that service members who underwent “naso- ar weapons in the US Navy. pharyngeal radium irradiation treatments” were exposed to I served on active duty from 1960 to 1991 as a nucle- potentially unhealthy levels of radiation. As a result of these ar weaponsman. Since retiring in 1991, I have attempt- treatments, you are eligible to a free, comprehensive health ed to bring to the attention of the VA that Navy Nuclear registry exam at the VA. This does not constitute a disability Weaponsmen have probably been exposed to radiation at as claims examination, nor does it guarantee disability compen- high, if not higher, levels than those recognized as “Atomic sation, but it will provide you with the opportunity to meet Veterans.” Many have suffered with cancers I believe may with a health care professional who will discuss potential have been caused by their service. treatments and follow-up care. I have also written a book (published in 2007) that details Your and your brethren’s military service is sincerely ap- my US Navy career and a detailed account of the Navy nu- preciated, but there’s no doubt that many have paid a tremen- clear weapons program: “Brotherhood of Doom: Memoirs dous price. All shipmates are encouraged to file a claim for VA of a Navy Nuclear Weaponsman.” More can be read about disability benefits if they feel their health concerns are related my book at: http://jimlittlebooks.com/. I welcome com- to their military service. ments from others who may have had similar experiences. Jim Little SBP the Second Time Around Thank you for your great article regarding Atomic Veterans. On page 6 of the March 2014 issue of There is, however, a glaring omission, one of which you may FRA Today, the answer regarding SBP not be aware. refunds was not quite as complete as it During the 1950s and early 1960s, approximately 850– could have been. 900 volunteers for submarine duty were directly exposed I took out SBP the first year it was to radium. A volunteer for the submarine service had to offered, naming my wife Virginia as the withstand a certain pressure in a test tank, which simulated beneficiary. Sadly, Virginia died in 2011 an escape from a submarine. Most volunteers passed easily, after 68 wonderful years of marriage. I while others had a degree of difficulty equalizing the pres- was not sure what happened concern- sure. Those who did not at first pass the test were treated ing my SBP, but I just wondered and did nothing. Then a with radium at the Naval Medical Experimental Laboratory miracle happened and I found myself in love with another in New London, Conn. The treatment consisted of inserting wonderful woman. When I contacted the SBP representa- long stainless steel rods, tipped with radium, up the nasal tives, I discovered that my SBP benefit could be applied to passages into the sinuses. The purpose was to “burn out” my new spouse. And, since I had made the maximum num- a small membrane that was not permitting the pressure to ber of payments, there is no longer a reduction from my equalize. The treatment was successful for many volunteers retired pay. I believe there is a time limit on how long you and they subsequently served in submarines. There were, have to be married before a second spouse can be covered. however, those of us on whom the treatment was not suc- Bruce Williams cessful. I can recall having these treatments two or three times. Later, I was transferred to the surface forces. FRA Response: Thank you for bringing this clarification to I thought nothing more about the radium treatments our attention. You are absolutely correct. A second spouse can until the mid-1990s, when I was contacted by a person rep- be named as an SBP beneficiary after one year of marriage. resenting the “Submarine Survivors Group.” It seems that Congratulations on finding love a second time! many who received these treatments were developing either Submissions Send Shipmate Forum letters to Editor, FRA Today, 125 N. West St. brain tumors, thyroid cancer and/or had a significant loss Alexandria, VA 22314. E-mail submissions may be sent to [email protected]. Please of teeth. I am probably lucky. So far, I do not have a brain include “Shipmate Forum” in the subject line. FRA reserves the right to select and edit tumor or thyroid cancer, but I have lost most of my teeth. letters for publication. Letters published in Shipmate Forum reflect the opinions and As with Agent Orange, the Navy and the Department of views of FRA members. They do not necessarily reflect the official position of FRA as Veterans Affairs deny any wrongdoing or any connection a whole. FRA is not responsible for the accuracy of letter content. GOLD &SILVERRESERVE Offi cial United States Special Arrangements Can Government Gold Be Made for Gold Released Today At Cost Orders Over $50,000 GOATCLOSDT COI EN AGRELEALESE AMERICANS OWN GOLD FOR ONLY $137! 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Or while supplies last B6HI:G86G9K>H66B:M9>H8DK:G8=:8@76C@L>G:68= Prices may be more or less based on current market conditions. The markets for coins are unregulated. Prices can rise or fall and carry some risks. The company is not affi liated with the U.S. Government and the U.S. Mint. Past performance of the coin or the market cannot predict future performance. Special at-cost offer is strictly limited to only one lifetime purchase of 10 at-cost coins (regardless of price paid) per household, plus shipping and insurance ($15-$35). Price not valid for precious metals dealers. All calls recorded for quality assurance. © 2014 United States Gold & Silver Reserve VAULT CODE: FRA14137 ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL 8 MAY 2014 MAY DoD Needs Funding for Bullets and Benefits John Davis FRA TODAY FRA WAS SUCCESSFUL IN repealing legislation that would readiness and national security at risk. Sequestration was limit Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs) to one per- intended to be so restrictive and punitive that Congress cent for retirees and for active duty and Reserve personnel and the Administration would be forced to work together who joined the military before January 1, 2014, but win- to find reasonable alternatives. Unfortunately, Congress ning this battle doesn’t mean we’ve won the war. Congress and the White House have been consumed with partisan is considering a variety of initiatives that threaten to com- bickering and have been unable to come to a long-term promise military pay and benefit programs. The threats agreement on the budget without sequestration cuts. aren’t new, but they are very real and include proposals Unless current law is changed, DoD will have to slash to implement TRICARE fee increases, cap military pay, an additional $54 billion in FY 2016 and another $269 reduce housing allowances and eliminate subsidies for billion over the following five fiscal years. Secretary of stateside commissaries. Defense Chuck Hagel has warned that future sequestra- The root of these proposals is the automatic bud- tion budget cuts will create a “hollow force.” FRA agrees get cuts (a.k.a. sequestration) mandated by the Budget and believes the military needs adequate funding for both Control Act (BCA) of 2011. Provisions of the BCA un- “bullets and benefits.” Every shipmate is strongly urged fairly burden the Department of Defense (DoD) with half use the Action Center at www.fra.org to ask their legisla- of the overall budget cuts, even though DoD makes up tors to demonstrate decisive leadership and work to ex- only 17 percent of the federal budget. These cuts go be- clude DoD from future sequestration cuts. yond threats to pay and benefits; they also put military Commissary Funding Legislation Introduced In House and Senate The Department of Defense (DoD) are going after something that saves a veterans and/or military family mem- has proposed a gradual elimination young Lance Corporal (E-3) $4,500 a bers. Closing stateside stores would of funding for stateside commissaries y e ar.” create an unintended consequence of as a cost-saving measure and FRA is Profits generated from stateside contributing to the ongoing problem supporting the “Military Commissary commissary sales are used to offset of unemployed veterans. Sustainment Act” (S. 2017/H.R. 4017), the operating costs at overseas loca- FRA’s National Board of Directors a measure that delays these fund- tions where they are needed most, so addressed this issue when they ing cuts until 2016. The Association cutting funding for stateside commis- “stormed” the Hill in April. Members echoes Sergeant Major of the Marine saries would negatively impact those are strongly urged to use the FRA Corps Micheal Barrett’s comments overseas. Additionally, the Defense Action Center to ask their legislators during a recent Capitol Hill hearing: “I Commissary Agency employs 100,000 to support this bill at action.fra.org. personally think it’s ridiculous that we people, 62 percent of whom are FRA Testifies Before Senate Defense Panel FRA recently spoke before the pay caps, continued sequestration cuts Acting Under Secretary for Defense Senate Armed Services Personnel and other budget reductions that im- Personnel and Readiness; and Jonathan Subcommittee, sharing concerns of pact active duty personnel and mili- Woodson, Assistant Secretary for its members and those represented by tary retirees. The TMC testimony also Defense Health Affairs) spoke to the The Military Coalition (TMC). John expressed opposition to the proposed subcommittee in favor of the cuts Davis, FRA’s director of Legislative TRICARE fee increases and cuts to proposed in the Pentagon budget. Programs and co-chairman of the funding for stateside commissaries. The Senate Armed Services Personnel TMC, represented enlisted organiza- Another panel (which includ- Subcommittee is scheduled to mark tions as one of four panelists. He ad- ed Robert Hale, Under Secretary of up its portion of the FY 2015 Defense dressed the Coalition’s opposition to Defense (Comptroller); Jessica Wright, Authorization bill by May 21, 2014. ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL 9 VETERANS AND RETIREE ISSUES FRA TODAY FRA National President Addresses Veterans’ Concerns VA Disability Claims Backlog FRA National President (NP) Virgil Shrinking Courneya recently testified before a The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is MAY 2014 joint hearing of the House and Senate boasting that the disability claims backlog Veterans’ Affairs Committees, asking has been reduced to less than 350,000 out- Congress to continue its work to reduce standing claims. The backlog—the number of the large backlog of disability claims at disability claims pending for more than 125 the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) days—dropped below the 350,000 mark in (see at right), expand presumption for March for the first time since February 2011. “Blue Water” veterans who were exposed It signifies a decrease of more than a quarter- to Agent Orange herbicide while serving million cases in the past year, a pace that VA off the coast of Vietnam, and authorize officials believe they can maintain to zero out two-year funding for the full VA budget to FRA photo by Chris Slawinski the backlog by the end of 2015. avoid the agency having to stop providing In recent testimony before a joint hearing benefits and adjudicating disability claims during a government shutdown. of the House and Senate Veterans Affairs NP Courneya thanked Sen. Bernie Sanders (Vt.) and Rep. Jeff Miller (Fla.), respective chairmen Committees (see at left), FRA NP Virgil of the Senate and House Committees, for their efforts to repeal the one-percent cost-of-living- Courneya expressed cautious optimism adjustment (COLA) for military retirees, including their sponsorship of legislation (S. 1982 and about the dwindling backlog of claims, H.R. 3789, respectively). Sanders’ legislation also contained numerous FRA-supported provi- but also warned that there may be a surge sions to improve veterans’ benefits. Courneya cited other issues addressed in the Association’s of claims as a large number of U.S. service full statement, including full concurrent receipt of military retired pay and veterans disability members withdraw from Afghanistan at compensation for all disabled military retirees, expanded suicide prevention programs, vet- the end of 2014. A surge of this size could eran’s status for Reserve Component personnel with 20 or more years of service, and reform of reverse the recent progress in reducing the the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA). backlog. Members can read FRA’s written testimony at www.fra.org/testimony. VA Under Secretary for Benefits Allison Additionally, members of the FRA’s Legislative Team regularly meet with Personnel Hickey called the dwindling backlog figure Subcommittee staff from the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, staff from the a significant step ahead. Officials aren’t cel- Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee and staff from the Military Compensation and ebrating the end of the backlog yet, but they Retirement Modernization Commission. These off-the-record meetings are opportunities to are confident they have put in place new provide the Association’s legislative agenda and priorities to key staff members on Capitol Hill. technology and processing systems to ensure a similar backlog fiasco won’t happen again. Another Doc Fix Extension Approved FRA supports legislation (H.R. 2189), spon- sored by Rep. Jeff Miller (Fla.), that would The Senate approved (64-35) the “Protecting Access to Medicare Act” (H.R. 4302) in late create a commission to evaluate the backlog March. The measure, sponsored by Rep. Joseph R. Pitts (Penn.), would prevent a 24-percent cut of disability claims at the VA. The bill also di- in reimbursement rates paid to doctors seeing Medicare and TRICARE patients. The House had rects the Joint Services Record Center to do earlier approved the “SGR Repeal and Medicare Provider Payment Modernization Act” (H.R. a comprehensive search to determine which 4015), sponsored by Rep. Michael Burgess (Texas), which would provide a more permanent ships’ crews serving off the coast of Vietnam solution by repealing the antiquated Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) and replacing it with a are eligible (under current law) for presump- fair, stable, simplified system of physician payments for Medicare and TRICARE programs. In the tive exposure to Agent Orange herbicide. This end, another temporary one-year extension was approved after lawmakers in both chambers would help with the Agent Orange-related failed to find a solution to the recurrent problem of how to pay for the permanent “doc fix,” claims made by Vietnam veterans or by which is estimated to cost $138 billion over 10 years. surviving family members of deceased vet- Quickly signed into law (P.L. 113-93) by President Obama, the latest temporary fix will expire erans. The legislation has passed the House on April 1, 2015. FRA supports a permanent resolution of the statutory funding formula for and is pending before the Senate Veterans Medicare and TRICARE physician reimbursement rates to ensure that TRICARE and Medicare Affairs Committee. Members are urged to patients have access to quality health care services. The “Doc Fix” issue is listed on the FRA use the Action Center (action.fra.org) to Action Center (action.fra.org) and was one of several issues discussed with legislators and their ask their Senators to support this important staff when members of FRA’s National Board of Directors (NBOD) met with their legislators in legislation. early April. ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL 10 VETERANS AND RETIREE ISSUES Social Security Speed Up of DoD-VA Seamless Transition Update MAY 2014 MAY Disabled Veterans Claims The 2014 National Defense Authorization Act The Social Security Administration (SSA) re- (NDAA) mandates that DoD and VA must have a cently announced it will streamline its review system in place by Oct. 1, 2016, that will allow FRA TODAY of disability claims for veterans, reducing by the departments to seamlessly share electronic weeks the process by which it determines health care data. This provision was in response benefits. The agency says it will expedite to departments’ aborted efforts to jointly develop claims for former service members who al- an integrated Electronic Health Record (EHR) sys- Photo by Syda Productions/Shutterstock ready have been deemed fully disabled by tem, which were derailed due to cost and schedule the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), elimi- challenges. Instead, the two agencies decided to pursue separate efforts to modernize or re- nating much of the bureaucratic “red tape” place their existing systems. However, according to a new Government Accountability Office requiring veterans to wait to get a decision (GAO) report (GAO-14-302), the VA and DoD “have not substantiated their claims that the about their eligibility for Social Security ben- current approach will be less expensive and more timely than the single-system approach.” The efits, sometimes for years. This change would report also notes that neither department has provided a joint strategic plan that explains lines add disabled veterans to the list of high- of responsibility, time schedule, how to eliminate management barriers, and how much the priority groups—including service members project will cost. FRA has long supported efforts to ensure adequate funding for DoD and VA wounded in combat — that are put at the health care resource sharing in delivering seamless, cost effective, quality services to personnel head of the line for review. wounded in combat and other veterans and their families. “It’s a very good result for Veterans’ Use of Post-9/11 GI Bill Increasing veterans who Information released from the VA indicates that the number of veterans taking advantage obviously made of the Post-9/11 GI Bill program is increasing. This FRA-supported legislation was enacted a tremendous into law in 2008 and, since it took effect in 2009, the number of veterans using the benefit commitment to has increased by 67 percent. In real numbers, veterans using the benefit have increased from their country,” 564,487 students in 2009 to 945,052 in 2012 — the last year data was available. said Rep. John Sarbanes (Md.), The Post-9/11 GI Bill extended education benefits to service members who have been on active who has pushed duty 90 days or more since September 10, 2001, or who were discharged with a service-related Social Security online disability for the quicker disability after 30 days. It provides up to 36 months of education benefits, generally payable for application. review. “They’re 15 years following release from active duty. A provision of the legislation also allows veterans returning from overseas conflicts and they’ve and service members to transfer unused benefits to their children or spouses, but about 79 suffered injuries that make it impossible for percent of the benefits are being used by the veterans or service members themselves, accord- them to have gainful employment.” ing to VA data. It’s not clear exactly how many people The VA has recently created several tools designed to make it easier for veterans to pursue would be affected by the policy, but the SSA higher education. Some schools have been accused of using deceptive tactics to boost veteran estimates it could be tens of thousands of enrollment and a new online complaint system, launched in January, allows student veterans veterans over time. Fully disabled veterans to detail problems they have experienced trying to access benefits at certain universities. The accounted for about 10 percent of all veter- online “GI Bill Comparison Tool” allows veterans to easily compare ways they can use their ans who received disability benefits from the benefits at different universities. VA in 2012, the last year for which data are FRA is supporting pending legislation, the House-passed “GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act” (H.R. available. 357), that would require schools eligible for GI Bill education benefits to give veterans in-state Under the new policy, applicants who have tuition rates even though they may not be residents of the states where the schools are lo- been deemed 100-percent disabled by the cated. Because of the nature of military service, veterans often have a difficult time establishing VA are to be put on a “fast track” at virtually residency for purposes of obtaining in-state tuition rates. Those who defended this nation did every step of the SSA’s process. The change not just defend the citizens of their home states, but the citizens of all 50 states. As such, the won’t make it any more likely that veterans educational benefits they receive from the taxpayers should reflect that fact. will receive benefits, officials say, just that Members are urged to use the Action Center to ask their senators to support this legislation at: they’ll get a decision more quickly. http://action.fra.org/action-center. For more information on this issue go to: Members wanting more information about the Post 9/11 GI Bill can go to: http://www.ssa.gov/veterans/#ht=1. http://department-of-veterans-affairs.github.io/gi-bill-comparison-tool. CNW-03_7.75x10_Layout 1 5:35 PM Page 1 How to Tell Time Like a Man Our digital-analog hybrid has two sides... tough and tougher. Get it now for an unbelievable $59! our watch shouldn’t cost more than your car. It should look and feel like a power Ytool and not a piece of bling. Wearing it shouldn’t make you think twice about swinging a hammer or changing a tire. A real man’s time- piece needs to be ready for anything. 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Instead, VA will ganizations in co-sponsoring the 17th annual automatically match income information obtained from the Internal Revenue Service and Social FRA TODAY House Reserve Component Caucus Breakfast Security Administration. on Capitol Hill. Reps. Duncan Hunter (Calif.) “Eliminating the requirement for annual income reporting makes our health care benefits and Tim Walz (Minn.) co-chair the bipartisan easier for veterans to obtain,” said VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki. “This change will reduce the caucus and attendees included caucus mem- burden on veterans, improve customer service and make it much easier for veterans to keep bers, officials from the Office of the Secretary their health care eligibility up-to-date.” of Defense (OSD), senior enlisted leaders of Some veterans applying for enrollment for the first time are still required to submit income the Reserve Component and members of key information. There is no change in VA’s long-standing policy to provide no-cost care to indigent military associations, including FRA. veterans, veterans with catastrophic medical conditions, veterans with a disability rating of 50 The keynote speaker was Christine Fox, Acting percent or higher, or for conditions that are officially rated as “service-connected.” Deputy Secretary of Defense. She thanked VA encourages veterans to continue to use the health benefits renewal form to report changes Guard and Reserve members and their fami- in their personal information, such as address, phone numbers, dependents, next of kin, income lies for the sacrifices they have made in de- and health insurance. fending the nation. She told the caucus that the proposed DoD budget request is $115 For more information, visit www.va.gov/healthbenefits/cost or call VA toll-free at 1-877-222- billion above mandated sequestration fund- VETS (8387). ing levels for the next five years. She said the days of a Reserve Component being a strate- USO Exec Goes to VA gic reserve are gone, and that the Reserves The Senate recently confirmed Sloan Gibson to be the deputy sec- will remain a unified part of the total force. retary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Gibson comes to the VA after more than five years as the president and CEO Senate Approves Sexual Assault of the United Service Organizations (USO), a nonprofit entity that Legislation provides morale, welfare and recreation-type services to uniformed The Senate recently passed the “Victims military personnel. Protection Act” (S. 1917) that reforms how During his confirmation hearing, he told Senate Veterans’ Affairs the military handles sexual assault cases. Committee members his priorities would include the ongoing ef- Before the bill was approved, there was vig- fort to reduce and eliminate the longstanding backlog of disability orous and extensive debate between two USO Flickr account from Picture claims. He said he also will work to find common ground with the Sloan Gibson of the Senate’s legislators, Senators Kristin Defense Department on a new strategy for a joint electronic health Gillibrand from New York and the bill’s spon- records system. sor, Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill. The Gibson also spent 20 years in the banking industry, retiring from AmSouth Bancorporation in measure would prohibit military commanders 2004. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and earned both Airborne from overturning jury convictions on sexual and Ranger qualifications, and served in the infantry in the Army. Gibson earned a Masters in assault; eliminate the statute of limitations Economics from the University of Missouri in Kansas City and a Masters in Public Administration for military rapes; and provide victims their from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. own independent counsel in sex crime cases. The bill would also require civilian review if FRA looks forward to working with the new deputy secretary on issues of mutual concern. a commanding officer decides not to pros- ecute a sexual assault case. The bill now goes PTSD Program Locator to the House for further consideration, and The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has established an online “PTSD Program Locator” to members can use the FRA Action Center at assist veterans in finding a specialized assistance program in their geographic area. To locate http://action.fra.org/action-center/ to weigh nearby specialized Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) programs by state or program type, in on the measure. go to: http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/ptsd_flsh.asp. ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL 13 FRA Takes Members’ Concerns to Capitol Hill, Presents Pinnacle Award FRA TODAY MEMBERS OF FRA’S BOARD of directors took shipmates’ concerns directly to Capitol Hill on Thursday, April 10. MAY 2014 In one-on-one meetings with their respective elected officials and staff, FRA leaders called for adequate fund- ing for Department of Defense (DoD) healthcare programs to preserve the TRICARE benefit, Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) reforms and many other issues that directly affect the quality of life of FRA shipmates and all current and former enlisted sea services personnel. During the visits, FRA represen- tatives provided background infor- mation and described how proposed budget cuts and changes to military benefit programs directly affect them, their shipmates and their families. Board members asked lawmakers to exclude the Defense Department from further sequestration cuts, preserve the commissary benefit, eliminate re- strictions that prevent “Blue Water” veterans from receiving disability ben- efits for exposure to Agent Orange, se- cure two-year advance funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), reduce the backlog of unresolved VA disability claims and more. FRA members and other con- cerned citizens from around the country participated virtually in the FRA photos by Paul Gunther Hill event via the Association’s online Clockwise from top: NP Virgil Courneya presents the Pinnacle Award to Rep. Joe Wilson (S.C.), along with NED Tom Snee; NP Virgil Courneya and FRA LA NP Carolyn Whitaker with Action Center (action.fra.org), where Rep. Wilson; Rep. Wilson speaks at the 2014 Pinnacle Award Reception. users sent thousands of pre-written letters on FRA’s top legislative pri- orities to lawmakers. These messages from constituents strengthen FRA’s for FRA-supported legislation to assist commissaries and impose higher fees voice on Capitol Hill and help advance those currently serving in the armed on TRICARE beneficiaries. “These the Association’s legislative agenda, forces, as well as those who served in budget cuts are primarily directed at which is also available at the online the past. FRA’s highest honor is pre- the Department of Defense and I’m Action Center. sented to a member of Congress whose working to reverse what I call ‘Defense FRA also presented its prestigious service and leadership epitomize the sequestration.’ I’ll keep trying and ap- Pinnacle Award to Representative Joe Association’s three cardinal principles preciate FRA’s help.” Wilson of South Carolina, who repre- of Loyalty, Protection and Service. sents the state’s Second Congressional Wilson thanked FRA for “making a District and chairs the House Armed difference” for military personnel and The FRA Legislative team is Tom Snee, National Services Subcommittee on Military their families. “Our military is under Executive Director; John Davis, Director of Legislative Personnel. Wilson was selected for this assault,” said Wilson, after referenc- Programs; and Chris Slawinski, National Veterans honor because of his strong advocacy ing efforts to cut funding for military Service Officer. HISTORY & HERITAGE 14 MAY 2014 MAY The History of FRA FRA TODAY 1950-1959 FRA first proposes legislation to provide a survivor benefit program as part of the military retirement 1 1950 system. The Association successfully defeats efforts to increase commissary prices by 18 to 20 percent. 1 1952 Vice President Richard M. Nixon is the keynote speaker at Photo courtesy of Defense Commissary Agency Historian. 2 1954 FRA’s National Convention in San Diego, California. 2 FRA has one of its most successful years, opening 22 new branches and increasing membership by nearly 1955 6,000 shipmates. FRA sponsors the Mrs. U.S. Navy Contest to honor the contributions of Navy wives to their husbands’ careers. 3 Beverly Jean Ellis (member of LA FRA Unit 60 and 1956 wife of Shipmate Alfred Ellis) was selected from more than 1,500 other Navy wives to win a 1956 Oldsmobile, $2,000 in cash and a tour of the United States. Legislation is enacted that expands Social Security to 1957 include active duty military personnel. 3 FRA-proposed legislation authorizes two additional senior 1958 enlisted pay grades (E-8 and E-9) to enhance retention. George L. Carlin, FRA’s founding father, joins the staff of 1959 the Supreme Commander. Photo appeared in November 1956 issue of All Hands. Perfect Choice HD™ is simple to use, hard to see and easy to afford… The invention of the year is great news for your ears. ver the years, digital has been designed to have an electronic technology easily accessible battery, but NEW Ohas made the way it is small and lightweight we live easier, safer and enough to hide behind your Now with more more convenient. In many ear… only you’ll know you power and clarity! cases, it’s even made many have it on. It’s comfortable products more affordable… and won’t make you feel like (remember how much the you have something stuck first VCR’s used to cost?). in your ear. 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He be- herself or his/her branch the four fol- lieves recruiting new members to fill Branch 46 — Honolulu, Hawaii lowing questions: leadership positions is vital to any or- Branch 293 — Elizabeth City, N.C. • Have you recruited or sponsored ganization, and FRA and its branches Branch 186 — Hernando, Fla. any new or reinstated members? are no exception. Branch 307 — Gulfport, Miss. • What have you done to engage and Shipmate Nabors appreciates the Branch 229 — Newburgh, N.Y. retain current shipmates? FRA leaders and mentors he’s met Branch 104 — Puyallup, Wash. • Have you helped raise awareness of during his tenure as a shipmate. It Branch 226 — Staten Island, N.Y. FRA’s important work in your local was a “no-brainer” when PNP “John” community? Johnson asked Ryan to join and he was Branch 183 — Interlachen, Fla. • Have you contacted your elected glad to accept the invitation. When Branch 258 — Erie, Pa. officials to express your views re- Ryan received a birthday card from Branch 137 — Minden, Nev. garding threats to military pay, the branch president, it included the Branch 197 — Modesto, Calif. benefits and quality of life pro- date and location of the next branch Branch 287 — Livermore, Calif. grams for active duty and reserve meeting. He appreciated the personal Branch 364 — Houston, Texas personnel, retirees and veterans? contact and made a point to attend. If you answered “yes” to these “Many younger members should Branch 310 — Silverdale, Wash. questions you’re well on your way to really invest in their futures,” says Branch 214 — Schenectady, N.Y. strengthening FRA’s membership base Nabors, “by joining the FRA and be- Branch 021 — Fort Collins, Colo. and positioning our organization for coming an active member.” He sug- Branch 292 — Leehigh Acres, Fla. future growth. gests that involvement can come in Branch 294 — Crossville, Tenn. These questions will be a recurring the form of volunteering for branch Branch 154 — Baguio City, theme during the new Membership or community projects or serving in Philippines Year that began on April 1, 2014. For leadership positions. These types of the next 12 months, each shipmate initiatives not only cultivate a sense Branch 13 — Atlantic City, N.J. and branch is encouraged to set goals of camaraderie and unify the group Branch 118 — Cape Coral, Fla. for recruiting and retention, and de- as they work toward a common goal, Branch 113 — Stockton, Calif. velop strategies that will enable them they also help raise public awareness Branch 247 — Dagupan City, to answer a resounding YES to these about the FRA. Philippines questions. If each branch could in- Thirty-five branches ended the Branch 257 — Portsmouth, Va. crease its membership by just three Membership Year (on March 31, 2014) Branch 222 — Slidell, La. percent, it would make a tremendous with positive recruiting and retention difference in our efforts to stabilize numbers. FRA congratulates those Branch 217 — Winston-Salem, N.C. our organization. Branch Membership branches, which will be recognized Branch 72 — Mall River, Mass and Retention chairmen and commit- at FRA’s 87th Convention in Corpus Branch 63 — Lewiston, Idaho tees should plan strategies to meet this Christi, Texas, (October 15 –19, 2014) Branch 204 — Rocky Mount, N.C. growth goal, as well as ways to stay for their efforts. Branch 098 — Shreveport, La. connected with current members and Increasing membership through Branch 328 — Roseburg, Ore. improve retention. active recruiting and retention efforts Shipmate Ryan Nabors (Branch must be everyone’s goal! Branch 369 — Cumberland, Md. 104, Puyallup, Wash.) suggests that Branch 123 — Morganton, N.C. recruiting efforts should include ef- Branch 36 — Cavite City, forts to engage the next generation of Penny Collins is FRA’s Director of Membership Philippines FRA members. Nabors is one of the Development and a member of FRA Branch 24 in Branch 111 — Batangas, Philippines younger members in his branch and Annapolis, Md. She can be reached at [email protected]. HEL5 -04_7.75x10_Layout 1 3:35 PM Page 1 Meet the Beauty in the Beast Discover this spectacular 6½-carat green treasure from Mount St. Helens! or almost a hundred years it lay dormant. Silently building strength. At F 10,000 feet high, it was truly a sleeping giant. Until May 18, 1980, when the beast awoke with violent force and revealed its greatest secret. Mount St. Helens erupted, sending up a 80,000-foot column of ash and smoke. From that chaos, something beautiful emerged… our spectacular Helenite Necklace. 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HEL599-04, Stauer Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com Stauer Client Smart Luxuries—Surprising Prices ™ 18 FRA TODAY MAY 2014 Aerial photo by J.D. Leipold/www.army.mil. Funeral photo by David Kay/Shutterstock A our countryhasplayedinworldhistory.” learn aboutournation’s richhistory, aswell as therole Administration. “ANC isalsoaplace where visitors can plains ReneaYates, DeputySuperintendent for Cemetery to ournationandtheworld,alsotheirfamilies,” ex- veterans whorest here andrecognize their contributions “Arlington National Cemetery is aplace to honor the veterans andfamilymembers. 400,000 than more for place resting final the and shrine the Department of the Army, it is anational and military Arlington National Cemetery cemetery in thecountry. Managedby etery andthesecondlargest national is America’s premier military cem- rlington NationalCemetery(ANC) dpe gado, ere Washington George grandson, adopted Washington’s George by Commissioned military visited most cemetery. and recognized historic beginning of ournation’s most as “ArlingtonHouse,”thestructure isthe Known one. last the after minutes 30 until tribute of position this in remains and day each of service funeral first the before utes min- 30 half-staff to lowered is there flies that flag The gates. the through come they when see visitors things first the of one is rises above Arlington National Cemetery The majestic Greekrevivalstructurethat Origins PAST 19 FRA TODAY MAY 2014 Photo titled “General Irvin McDowell and staff, Arlington House, 1862“ Photo titled “General Irvin McDowell and staff, the Library of Congress. from constructed in the rose garden and became the grave for 2,111 casualties from mul- Battle the including battles, War Civil tiple of Bull Run — one of the first monuments to Civil War dead erected under orders. Meigs’ - - - seceded from the Union. Lee, who was by then a major general for the mili Virginia and safety wife’s his for feared forces, tary encouraged her to quietly secure personal and historic valuables, and move to a safer locale. Federal troops took up positions around pay to failed Lee Mrs. when and Arlington property taxes on the estate in person, it was confiscated by the federal government and purchased by a tax commissioner for “government use, for war, military, chari table and educational purposes.” Arlington National Cemetery tablished was by es- Brig. C. Gen. Meigs, Montgomery General the and commander Army son at of Arlington House. In June the of Quartermaster 1864, - garri Meigs recommended that approximately 200 acres of the estate be used as a mili tary cemetery. A stone burial vault was - Parke Custis, the mansion was intended to be a living memorial to our nation’s first president. The home, which also as served a repository for portraits, personal pa- pers and a variety of memorabilia, was the other residence for Custis Washington and his wife from 1802 until their deaths in 1857 and 1853 (respectively). are both buried (They on the property and their original graves can be found in Section 13 ANC.) of In 1831, Custis’ only child, Mary Anna, married Robert E. Lee, who would later play a significant role in Civil our nation’s Under War. the terms of her father’s will, Mary was allowed to live House following in Arlington her father’s death Robert and would serve as estate executor of and the custodian of property. the The 1,100-acre Lees House lived until at 1861, Arlington when Virginia rati fied an alliance with the Confederacy and Arlington National Cemetery National Arlington 20 Since then, ANC has become the final resting 110,000 interactions were logged in the place for hundreds of thousands of American first two years. veterans, as well as U. S. presidents, mem- “2010 identified opportunities for MAY 2014 MAY bers of the Supreme Court and other notable improvement in all facets of our opera- figures. It is truly a sacred place to “Honor, tions,” explains Deputy Superintendent Remember and Explore.” for Cemetery Operations Jack Lechner FRA TODAY Jr. “We have a fantastic team of person- Opportunities for nel and we’re leveraging everything from Army technology to the watchful eye of Improvement Congress and the Inspector General to improve every possible system. We’ve www.arlingtoncemetery.mil. Photo from This hallowed place came under fire in implemented training systems, policies 2010, when the Army Inspector General and processes to affect improvements. all the time, says Lechner, so all ANC staff identified significant management and We’ve established performance standards members receive resilience training. “It operational issues related to the cemetery. and train all ANC personnel to meet them. helps them understand and be aware of But in the past four years, tremendous coping mechanisms related to working in strides have been made in improving “For example, the caretakers who open an environment of grief.” ANC’s administration and operation. and close the graves and maintain the grounds go through OSHA [Occupational Employees who work at the Customer The new leadership team put in place in Safety and Health Administration] train- Service Center field up to 400 interactions 2010 immediately began making substan- ing, as well as an industry-standard heavy a day, many of which are the first contact tial changes, which included transitioning equipment operators’ course. Our funeral a family member or visitor may have with the cemetery from using typewriters and representatives who escort the families ANC. 3x5 cards for maintaining records to us- throughout the funeral process, supervisors ing technology to become a fully digital “We count every phone call, fax, e-mail or and all staff who interact with the public go organization. The Army conducted a full feedback message from our website as an through grief training,” Lechner continues. review of every gravesite and interment ‘interaction,’” explains Yates. “Whether “They need to be able to empathize with record, digitized all the interment files and someone wants to start the process to in- grieving families and be able to share that created a single, verifiable and authorita- ter their loved one or they simply want to empathy in person and by phone.” tive database for all those laid to rest in know what hours the cemetery is open, the cemetery. Finally, a Customer Service But it’s not just family members who need they all represent a need for service. And Center was established, where more than support. It’s difficult to work around death our staff is committed to providing that service in the most effective, positive and respectful way possible.” And the inquiries run the gamut, says Eligibility Yates. “We get a wide variety of questions, ranging from questions about the protocols As a general rule, military personnel who have served in the active duty military for attending funeral services here, the and been honorably discharged are eligible for interment at ANC. The veteran’s process for laying a wreath at the Tomb of surviving spouse and minor children are also eligible to be interred with the ser- the Unknown Soldier, logistical informa- vice member in the same grave or niche. The requirements, however, vary for tion about parking and tours, to questions those wishing in-ground burial versus inurnment in a niche wall or columbarium. about notable people buried here.” In-ground burial is available for active duty service members (except those ANC is also leveraging the Army’s serving for training purposes only), retired service members (who are entitled contracting officer training to support to military retired pay), former prisoners of war and those who’ve been awarded its information technology, call center, the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Service Medal, ground maintenance and other contracts. Silver Star or Purple Heart. Both casketed and cremated remains may be buried “We have $6.2 million in ground mainte- at ANC. nance and horticulture contracts alone,” elaborates Lechner. “In addition to the Above-ground inurnment (cremated remains placed in a niche or columbarium) folks who do the mowing and mainte- is available to those eligible for in-ground burial, as well as former service nance, we also have three tree/turf/shrub members who served on active duty (for other than training) whose last service and plant experts on our staff. They not terminated honorably, and members of the Reserves and National Guard who only understand the technical aspects of die while on active duty for training or full-time service. the work, they are also well versed in the This is not an exhaustive list. More information is available online at technicalities of contract management.” www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/FuneralInformation/EstablishServices.aspx or by “We have a world-class staff here,” adds calling 877-907-8585. It is important to note that eligibility must be established Yates, proudly, “and that’s as it should be.” at the time of need and proof of service is required. 21 only allows us to work more efficiently throughout the cemetery also means snow and effectively, it also allows us to help removal in the winter. FRA TODAY visitors and family members find their way through the cemetery,” says Yates. “Our operations don’t stop when the PRESENT federal government closes for inclem- ent weather,” Lechner continues. “When MA Y 2014 Transformation is Maintaining High a family has had to wait months to bury their loved one and all the relatives are SOP Today Standards gathered, often from out of town, it just Numerous procedures and processes have wouldn’t be right to tell them we’ve got to “The transformation that began in 2010 is been implemented to improve every facet postpone the service until the weather im- now our standard operating procedure,” of cemetery operations, including ground proves. We recently held 22 services on a explains Melissa Bohan, public affairs maintenance and the interment process. day when the government was closed due specialist for ANC. And attention to de- to snow. The soldiers that guard the Tomb tail is the hallmark of all operations at the From first contact through the final inter- of the Unknown Soldier and our staff are cemetery. ment, ANC now has the strictest chain of on duty, regardless of the conditions.” custody requirements of any national cem- Technology has played a significant role in etery, according to Lechner. “We maintain Heavy equipment is required to do much ANC’s improvements and has allowed the positive control and know where the re- of the earth-moving and maintenance cemetery to expand its service to the 3.1 mains are at all times. We are also able to work at ANC, which often creates addi- million family members and others who electronically track the full lifecycle of a tional work for the groundskeepers. ANC visit the cemetery annually. Geospatial and gravesite: assignment, opening, closing, now minimizes damage to the grounds global positioning system (GPS) technolo- backfill and tamping. After 30 days, we with the use of “turf-friendly equipment” gies now allow cemetery employees to go back and ensure the grave isn’t sinking that has a lighter footprint and large inflat- map each burial plot to within a three-inch and is up to standards. It’s a very compre- able tires. Mini-excavators have tracks that GPS accuracy and link each gravesite with hensive system.” don’t tear up the turf and make it easier for the interment database. This allows staff to crews to rake up the grass behind them, synchronize burial operations in real time ANC encompasses 624 developed acres leaving the grounds looking as pristine as and deconflict burials with public ceremo- and the groundskeeping staff is respon- possible. Additionally, many of the main- nies, repairs and necessary infrastructure sible for all the turf, the shrubs and floral tenance vehicles are electric or hybrids, and landscaping work. displays throughout the cemetery. They so they’re eco-friendly and also quiet — a are also responsible for the care and main- “We have up to five services per hour and critical attribute when working amid so tenance of some 8,500 trees, of which it’s critical to deconflict those services, as many solemn ceremonies. there are 300 species. (See page 24 to well as making sure our field operators aren’t learn more about ANC’s designation as a “We’ve also made a big move toward excavating a grave or mowing the grass near national arboretum.) being more environmentally friendly,” an ongoing funeral service. We want each continues Lechner. “We protect our water- family to feel like they are the only family “Our maintenance requirements vary by sheds by using an oil/water separator that being served at that moment. That’s the most season,” describes Lechner. “During the prevents petroleum products from getting important thing. And, although technology growing season, one of our most obvi- into our groundwater. And we’ve installed has helped some, much of this work still ous responsibilities is keeping the grass grating to catch soil that might otherwise requires old fashioned brain power. For ex- mowed. The entire cemetery is mowed at wash into our storm sewers. ” ample, some burial sites are already dictated least once a week, but some areas — like by a previous family member’s burial,” says around the Memorial Amphitheater, JFK’s ANC strives to achieve diversity in its Yates. grave and Arlington House — are mowed tree and landscape plantings, using earth- twice a week. And of course, we’re always friendly practices that include using In the past, ANC maintained a series of working to make sure the areas are free ornamental grasses and other plants that paper maps. If a change was made on of debris and that tracks from our main- require less water and fertilizer. one set, but not transferred to another, it tenance vehicles are kept to a minimum. caused confusion. The digitization of all Care and cleaning of the Tomb of the “We’ve got a wonderful ecosystem here burial records and the development of the Unknown Soldier and other more public at ANC that attracts wildlife and pollina- cemetery’s Geospatial Information System areas take place after hours, but the day- tors, such as butterflies and birds,” adds (GIS) now allow the staff to work from a to-day maintenance must be carefully Lechner. “We’re also using more native single digital map and a single database. scheduled to avoid interference with fu- plants and working to eradicate invasive When changes are made, they’re visible to neral services.” plants, too.” the entire staff in real time. During the non-growing season, ANC “Our database now feeds GIS, facilitates workers perform maintenance on the the inter-service scheduling of funerals cemetery’s infrastructure, facilities and and a variety of other features that not equipment. Managing 19 miles of roads 22 the site for a pilot program to collect and Graves and preserve some of the unique artifacts and Headstones tributes left for these warriors. MAY 2014 MAY “Opening and closing graves is obviously a “A trend began in 2009 where loved ones large part of the daily operations at ANC,” would leave mementos, particularly in adds Lechner. “We take the extra step Section 60. Often there were photos of the FRA TODAY of sifting the removed earth before it is deceased, which really gave a face to those returned to cover the casket. It is then hand- who died, as well as teddy bears, hand- tamped to preclude sinking and settling of crafted items and other personal tributes the grave. We have a system in place that to the fallen,” explains Yates. “As a result, requires each grave to be inspected seven we’ve had to establish some policies about days after the burial, and then again after such things. For example, photos cannot 30 days, to ensure it is level.” be affixed or attached to the headstones and other mementos can’t interfere with The majority of headstones at ANC are is- www.arlingtoncemetery.mil. Photo from maintenance or become unsightly. We’ve sued by the Department of Veterans Affairs also established a pilot project to collect (VA) as a benefit of military service. Since “We also strive to make sure the stones are those tributes that have historic, artistic or 1948, private monuments are limited to clean and kept in good condition,” says intrinsic value. On the second and fourth only 13 sections of the cemetery and there Lechner. “Sometimes headstones, particu- Friday of each month, remembrances from are very specific guidelines regarding size. larly those in the shade, start looking dirty Section 60 are collected and cataloged by “Requests for burial in these areas often because mold begins to grow on them. ANC historians. We currently have more stem from a desire to be near a loved one We used to use bleach to clean them, but than 27,000 items and we hope to use the — a parent or child, or classmate,” ex- that created a chalky finish and was really collection as a teaching tool in the future.” plains Yates. “We have some families who hard on the stones. Now we use a special have contributed generations of service product that not only kills the mold, it also and they often wish to be buried in close helps preserve the stone’s finish. The prod- proximity to one another.” uct reactivates every time it rains and lasts up to three years.” The VA-issued headstones weigh 240 pounds and measure 42 inches tall, of which FUTURE 18 inches is placed below ground level. Mementos and Throughout the year, ANC groundskeepers Treasures raise and realign stones that have sunk or ANC at 150 are out of alignment with adjacent stones. ANC personnel are also responsible ANC marks its 150th anniversary If the engraving on a stone deteriorates to for ensuring the cemetery is free from next month and there are a number of the point that it is unreadable, a footstone is litter and debris. Flowers and other re- events planned to honor the past and added (at the base of the grave) to identify membrances left at gravesites can only position the cemetery for its future. the veteran who’s laid to rest there. remain there so long. Yates explains that Visit www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Events/ ANC’s floral policy authorizes fresh ANC150Events.aspx for a complete list of Families used to have to wait up to five flowers during the growing season and all anniversary events. months for a headstone to be placed, but artificial ones and wreaths are authorized thanks to new technology, that wait time during colder weather, and will eventually Among the many improvements made is now down to 60 days or less. An on- be removed from the sites. Unsafe items in recent years is the development of line tool allows the family to choose how — glass, tobacco, alcohol, ammunition the ANC Explorer application for smart they want the headstone to look. There are and the like — are prohibited and are re- phones and tablets, which allows family 13 lines available for inscription, five of moved immediately. members and the public to easily explore which are mandatory. The remaining eight ANC and its rich history. ANC Explorer lines can include conflicts in which the Personal remembrances aren’t new, but users can locate a specific gravesite, gener- veteran participated, awards and medals there was an increase in these types of ate front-and-back photos of the headstone earned, or even a term of endearment, such items being left for those killed in more or monument, and receive walking di- as “devoted father.” As a result, accuracy recent conflicts. This is particularly evi- rections to the location. Those using the has improved, the error rate has decreased dent in ANC’s Section 60, where many mobile app can track their path to the site and the overall timetable has been short- of the service members killed in Iraq and as they move through the cemetery. ened. When a headstone is placed, photos Afghanistan are interred. Although less “As part of Arlington’s 150th anniversary are taken and uploaded to the cemetery’s than 10 percent of the section is currently commemoration, we will be releasing an application, ANC Explorer, that night, the final resting place for those killed in ac- updated version of our app, ANC Explorer so family members can see it as soon as tion during Operations Enduring Freedom 2.0. It will allow users to download possible. and Iraqi Freedom, Section 60 has become PSE273-05_7.75x10_Layout 1 4/1/14 11:02 AM Page 1 JUST RELEASED: 20 14 SIL VER ! Actual size is 40.6 mm Millions Demand America’s Purest Silver Dollar. Shouldn’t You? 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NOTE: GovMint.com® is a private distributor of worldwide government coin and currency issues and privately issued licensed collectibles and is not affiliated with the United States government. Facts and figures deemed accurate as of January 2014. ©2014 GovMint.com. 24 prepared guided tours, such as sites off The Millennium Project was born in the Custis and Crook Walks and areas near the late 1990s when Congress realized the interpretive tour bus stops. Users will that Arlington National Cemetery was MAY 2014 MAY also be able to create customized tours near capacity. Since then, several expan- and save content to their mobile devices,” sion designs have been considered to explains Bohan, who says the website and incorporate the area’s natural beauty and app aren’t just for visitors to the cemetery. historic nature, while expanding ANC in FRA TODAY “For relatives who live far from D.C. and an environmentally friendly manner. The can’t visit ANC in person, this technology final Millennium Project design includes allows them to visit us virtually.” the restoration of a previously degraded stream; preserving the entire project site as The app is available on the cemetery’s a “green space,” serving as one of the few website, on kiosks located at the cem- areas in Arlington County that will remain etery, and through Google Play and the indefinitely vegetated with a mix of natural Apple App store. To learn more, visit open areas and forested areas; implement- www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/ancexplorer. ing a multi-year invasive species control U.S. Army photo by J.D. Leipold ANC’s website (www.arlingtoncemetery. plan to improve the existing conditions of mil) will also be new and improved in time the property; and making improvements to for the 150th anniversary. It will feature a stormwater management. Construction on “Honor — Remember cleaner layout and design, simplified navi- the project began in early 2014 and, when gation and quick links to highly visited complete in 2016, it will add more than — Explore” 27,000 burial and niche spaces for first in- sections of the site, like funeral informa- Working at Arlington National Cemetery terments and inurnments. tion and exploring the cemetery. is a unique privilege and provides a great deal of personal satisfaction. To commemorate its 150th anniversary, “Because of its location on our overall site, ANC’s historic landscape has also been the Millennium expansion will allow us to “It’s truly an honor and privilege to serve established as the Arlington National disperse our operations, which is a critical here,” says Lechner. “It’s wonderful to Cemetery Memorial Arboretum. Like the element in making sure services and oper- see the sense of passion and pride dem- cemetery itself, the Arboretum serves as a ations don’t overlap,” explains Yates. “We onstrated by the staff. Every employee living memorial to those who have served expect the Millennium Project to meet our respects this national shrine and takes our nation and connects visitors to the rich interment needs through 2026.” great pride in his or her work. tapestry of the cemetery’s living history and natural beauty. The Southern Expansion Project will uti- “I genuinely look forward to coming to lize the 37 acres formerly occupied by the work every day, knowing I’ll have the op- Some of the 300 species of trees liv- Navy Annex. Planning and design efforts portunity to help families,” he continues. ing on the ANC grounds date back more for this property are expected to begin later “It’s gratifying to be able to solve problems than 200 years and 297 of the trees have this year and, according to Yates, the proj- for a family, no matter how minor they been labeled for visitors. Information ect “is really a blank slate right now, but might seem to me. It means a great deal on these labels and their locations is we anticipate this expansion will meet our to know we’ve satisfied a family at a very available at www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/ interment needs through the mid-2050s.” difficult time in their lives. They’ve turned VisitorInformation/Grounds.aspx. over their loved one for us to care for. We Columbia Pike, a major traffic thorough- become their caretakers for the rest of time.” fare, runs directly through the property, Expanding to Meet and efforts to reroute that traffic flow “It’s gratifying to be able to support and will require negotiations and agreement provide a safe place for families to mourn, Future Needs among a variety of agencies. “We’re cur- and also celebrate the military service of Two major expansions are planned for rently working with the Commonwealth their loved ones. ANC is a place where ANC, which are expected to provide of Virginia and Arlington County, the the nation honors the lives given for our enough additional interment space to meet Pentagon and other stakeholders to make freedom,” adds Yates, with sincerity. the cemetery’s needs for the next 35 years the area conducive to our needs. We’re also “We provide ceremonies that speak when or more. sensitive to the access requirements related words simply cannot.” to the Air Force and Pentagon Memorials, The first is the Millennium Project, a 27- and the potential for an Arlington County acre parcel of undeveloped land secured Heritage and Freedman’s Village Museum from Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, the at some point in the future,” where fugitive Lauren Armstrong is the National Park Service, and existing ANC and liberated slaves lived during and after Contributing Editor and Member land. the Civil War. of the FRA Auxiliary. 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FRA also welcomes and looks forward to working with MCPOCG Steven Cantrell and MCPOCGRF Eric Johnson, who will relieve Leavitt and Allen this month. FRA TODAY An Honor to Serve Opportunities By MCPOCG Michael Leavitt By MCPOCGRF Mark H. Allen It has truly been an My fellow FRA ship- honor to serve the mates; before us we men and women of find unique opportu- the United States nities to take care of Coast Guard and our families, achieve their families as the our missions, and eleventh Master leave things better for Chief Petty Officer those who follow. To of the Coast Guard do so, we must over- (MCPOCG). Working come obstacles. We with Admiral Bob must engage, collabo- Papp, Vice Admiral rate, and focus. John Currier and I am grateful to all other senior leaders military and veteran within the Coast Guard has been a very rewarding experi- service organizations, especially those like FRA who make ence. I have also had the privilege of working with lead- up The Military Coalition. Your mission of taking care of ership within the White House, Congress, Department of our troops and their families is both noble and just. You Homeland Security and Department of Defense, as well as work with Congress to overcome budget obstacles and take other government and non-government organizations, on advantage of opportunities to improve the lives of those issues impacting our Coast Guardsmen and their families. who serve. The future of organizations such as yours will Almost four years ago, the Coast Guard Commandant, depend on overcoming obstacles such as membership. Like Admiral Bob Papp, told us the Coast Guard would face your efforts on Capitol Hill, building membership will re- significant challenges and uncertainties, and that has cer- quire being open to new and sometimes radical ideas. It tainly been true. Admiral Papp laid out a course for our will require dialoguing with young service members in the way ahead, focusing primarily on building well-trained, manners they engage with each other. Organizations that equipped and proficient crews and enhancing the quality of succeed will be those which first seek to understand before life for Coast Guardsmen and their families. seeking to be understood. Despite constant challenges, Coast Guardsmen accom- I wish to thank current and former Sailors and Marines plished so much during this watch. We continued to fo- for engaging your Coast Guard shipmates in your train- cus on training our people, ensuring they are proficient in ing, operations, and care for troops and families. We Coast craft and leadership. We continued to recapitalize our cut- Guardsmen could not achieve our missions, especially in ter fleet, aviation assets, and small boats. We significantly today’s budget environment, without your help. Your col- enhanced our Child Care and Ombudsman programs, and laboration has facilitated our success despite the obstacle of created personnel resource tools like CG SUPRT to better budget challenges. We Coasties have seized opportunities to meet the needs of Coast Guard families. We improved our become more proficient through joint Reserve mobilization housing program, determined how much we need, where exercises. We have saved resources by operating jointly with we need it and how we can better manage it, and so much you in places such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, and Cuba. more. Our troops and families have benefitted during deployments We also experienced record high retention, which result- from joint support such as the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration ed in slow recruiting and advancements, and long A-School Program and Military OneSource. waits for some of our Coast Guardsmen. To help alleviate this We Coasties, both Active Component and Reserve continued on page 29 continued on page 29 SFP174-02_7.75x10_Layout 1 4/1/14 11:05 AM Page 1 Limited Mintage Striking... WORLD’S FIRST The 2014 $100 SILVER PROOF Collectible Mirrored proof Larger Franklin Liberty Bell, quill pen Minted in one Troy ounce Actual size is 6” x 2 ½” 2014 date background portrait & July 4th date of .999% fine silver GovMint.com Announces the Limited Mintage ADVANCE STRIKE DISCOUNT Striking of an Extraordinary Silver Proof The price for the 2014 $100 Silver Proof will be set at $129 —the Newest United States $100 Bill Struck in per proof. Pure Silver Bullion. 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Prices and availability subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a predictor of future performance. NOTE: GovMint.com® is a private distributor of world- wide government coin and currency issues and privately issued licensed collectibles and is not affiliated with the United States government. Facts and figures deemed accurate as of November 2013. ©2014 GovMint.com. Visit our web site at www.GovMint.com REUNIONS 28 American Association of Navy Hospital USS Current Corpsmen (AAoNHC) September 11–14, 2014, Branson, MO. September 25–28, 2014, Warwick, RI. Contact Jerry Spickler, 317-996-2759, Contact Charles Kraut, 817-229-5194, MAY 2014 MAY [email protected] [email protected] USS England (CG/DLG-22) Naval Air Station Atlanta (Chamblee October 9–11, 2014, Mobile, AL. and Marietta): Contact Mal D.e. Hayden, 13058 Kiwi FRA TODAY May 19–20, 2014, Dillard, GA. Lane, Garden Grove, CA 92844, 562- Contact Al Nordin, 678-581-9594, 254-5802, [email protected] [email protected] USS English (DD-696) Navy Lithographers Association September 11–14, 2014, Albany, NY. September 17–20, 2014, Glen Burnie, Contact Ed Condon, 1902 N Gordon MD. Contact John Belrose, 540-785- St., Plant City, FL 33563, 419-625- 8250, [email protected] 5066, [email protected] USS Hollister (DD-788) US Navy Band Alumni Association USS Everett F. Larson (DD/DDR-830) September 24–28, 2014, Davenport, August 3–4, 2014, Washington, DC. September 18–22, 2014, San IA. Contact Ed Gundersen, 2176 Contact Don Stratton, MUCM (Ret.), 3 Francisco, CA. Contact Clyde Bingham, County Highway 107, Amsterdam, NY Cambridge Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, 28 Via Mesa, San Jose, CA 95139- 12010, 518-842-7126, gunder788@ 717-533-2501, [email protected] 1146, 408-360-8816. verizon.net USS Alabama (BB-60) USS Finch (DE-328/WDE-428/ USS Ingersoll (DD-652/990) April 9–12, 2015, Mobile, AL. Contact DER-328) September 5–7, 2014, Houston, TX. Bill Tunnell, PO Box 65, Mobile, AL October 5–8, 2014, Reno, NV. Contact Dennis Harris, 6581 CR108, 36601-0065, 251-433-2703, btunnell@ Contact Robert G. Cragg, PO Box 353, Iola, TX 77861, 979-676-0612, ussalabama.com Emigrant, MT 59027, 847-658-2676, [email protected] [email protected] USS Arnold J. Isbell (DD-869) USS Joseph Strauss (DDG-16) September 26–29, 2014, St Louis, MO. USS Fiske (DD/DDR-842) September 4–7, 2014, San Francisco, Contact Barry Dahiberg, 11267 Red September 24–26, 2015, Gettysburg, CA. Contact Jim Hansen, 719-488- Bud Trl, Berrien Springs, MN 49103, PA. Contact Jeff Davis, PO Box 3214, 4443, [email protected] 708-203-1445, [email protected] Gettysburg, PA 17325, 717-752-2842, [email protected] USS Leyte (CV-32) USS Beale (DD/DDE-471) October 8–12, 2014, Mobile, AL. September 15–17, 2014, Branson, USS Forrestal (CVA/CV/AVT 59) Contact Le Grande Van Wagenen, 43 MO. Contact Bill Brings, 8826 Thoreau September 23–27, 2014, Branson, MO. Frederick Pl, Parlin, NJ 08859, 732- Pl Hudson, FL 34667, 727-868-4453, Contact Jim Brussell, PO Box 225, Ft 727-5993, [email protected] [email protected] Loramie, OH 45845, 935-295-2863, [email protected] USS Little Rock (CL-4/CLG-4/CG-4) USS Bexar (APA-237)/USS Pickaway July 9–13, 2014, Norfolk, VA. Contact (APA-222) USS Frontier (AD-25) Ray Cutter, 631-286-2923, raycutter1@ September 18–21, 2014, Pensacola, September 15–18, 2014, Portland, aol.com FL. Contact Steve Malloy, 1542 10th ME. Contact Smitty, 732-251-1773, St., Bremerton, WA 98337, 360-373- [email protected] USS NITRO (AE-2/AE-23) 1093, [email protected] June 19–22, 2014, Norfolk, VA. Contact USS Guam (LPH 9) Jim Timmons, S37 W27575 Windsong USS Casimir Pulaski (SSBN-633) September 14–20, 2014, San Angelo, Ridge, Waukesha, WI 53189, 262-547- October 8–11, 2014, N. Charleston, TX. Contact Russell Williams, 10330 3726, [email protected] SC. Contact Bill Roup, PO Box 815, Twin Lakes Ln, San Angelo, TX 76904, Ladson SC 29456, 843-553-9895, 325-656-0093, [email protected] USS Observation Island (EAG-154) [email protected] January 21–23, 2015, Cocoa Beach, USS Higbee (DD/DDR-806) FL. Contact Dave Campbell, 415 E USS Charles F. Adams (DDG-2) September 17–21, 2014, Denver, CO. Drahner, Oxford, MI 48371, 248-464- April 19–24, 2015, Branson, MO. Contact Gil “Rod” Rodello, 829 S. 43rd 1597, [email protected] Contact Richard Harmon, 386-235- St. Springfield, OR 97478, 541-747- 8723, [email protected] 1408, [email protected] USS Oklahoma City Association’s Annual Naval Reunion USS Cowell (DD-547) USS Holder (DD/DDE 819 and DE 401) September 23–28, 2014, Warwick, RI. October 6–9, 2014, Jacksonville, FL. September 21–25, 2014, Chattanooga, Contact John F. Baker, 620-399-3999. Contact Vincent Kraus, 248 Johnston TN. Contact James De Barrios, 831- Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32211, 904-721- 458-9062, ussholder_dde819@ continued on page 29 8009, [email protected] hotmail.com REUNIONS 29 USS Proteus (AS-19) USS Thomas Jefferson (SSBN/ USS Von Steuben (SSBN-632) October 20–23, 2014, Charleston, SC. SSN-618) September 25–28, 2014, Newport FRA TODAY Contact Paul Castle, 619-237-1314, September 21–24, 2014, Mount News, VA. Contact Rick Wise, 111 [email protected] Pleasant, SC. Contact Jim Beauchamp, Pinewood Drive, Summerville, 962 Ewell Rd. Virginia Beach, VA SC 29483, 843-875-5559, USS Remora (SS-487) MAY 2014 23455, 757-464-6198, [email protected] September 4-6, 2014, San Francisco, [email protected] CA. Contact Phillip R. Schwartze, 31103 VAP-61/VAP-62 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite D-2260, San USS Trumpetfish (SS-425) October 22–25, 2014, Pensacola, FL. Juan Capistrano, CA 92675, 949-300- October 22–27, 2014, North Charleston, Contact Donna Sims, 660-259-4546 8619, [email protected] SC. Contact Terry Trump, 404 Pinehurst or 573-345-3105, donna.sims.1969@ Ave., Summerville, SC 29483, 843-873- gmail.com USS Rupertus (DD-851) 9563, [email protected] October 14-16, 2014, New Orleans, VP-28 Hawaiian Warriors LA. Contact Pete Spoonhower, 54512 USS Truxtun (DLG(N)/CG(N)-35) October 7–11, 2014, St Augustine, Seeley Ln, Center, MO 63436-2330, October 9–12, 2014, Jacksonville, FL. FL. Contact Michael Chalut, 6401 573-267-3510, pspoonhower@ Contact Charles Bethea/Dave Holland, Jack Wright Island Rd., St Augustine, gmail.com TRUXTUN Association, 3605 Sweet Bay FL 32092, 904-607-6063, chalut@ Drive, Pace, FL 32571-8001, 856-795- bellsouth.net USS Sea Cat (SS-399) 0720, [email protected] September 22–26, 2014, Branson, MO. VR-22 25th Annual Reunion Contact Edwin Hymer, 515-981-3006, USS Twining (DD-540) October 1–5, 2014, Virginia Beach, [email protected] September 15–19, 2014, San Diego, VA. Contact Gene Shonkwiler, 1801 CA. Contact Joe Ed Jones, 7500 Columbia Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33881- USS Seadragon (SSN-584) Swinford Place, Charlotte, NC 28270, 2723, 863-969-3850, geneshonkwiler@ September 3–5, 2014, San Francisco, 704-807-0716, [email protected] gmail.com CA. Contact Jerry Gruenhagen, [email protected] USS Voge (DE/FF-1047) October 8–12, 2014, Norfolk, VA. Contact Tom Anderson, PO Box 406, Members can post reunions online at www.fra.org, Carlisle, AR 72024, 501-259-1369, submit to [email protected] or mail to: FRA Reunions, [email protected] 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314. AN HONOR TO SERVE continued from page 26 OPPORTUNITIES continued from page 26 problem, we implemented the Career Retention Screening Component, must expand our engagement and collabora- Panel and reinstituted a High-Year Tenure program using a tion to seize and create opportunities to take care of our slightly different approach from lessons learned in the ‘90s. families, achieve our missions, and leave things better for These programs and others are helping us better manage those who follow. As Revolutionary War era statesman the flow of our workforce. Patrick Henry expressed in 1799, “United we stand, divided In the future, the Coast Guard will continue to face chal- we fall.” Together we will continue to overcome obstacles lenges, but that’s nothing new in our 223-year history. When while focusing on opportunities such as the continuum of times become challenging, it is vitally important that we con- service concept, the blurring of the separation between the tinue to strive for mission excellence and continue to balance Active and Reserve Components. We have proven during our people’s needs. It is our people’s resiliency, commitment the last several years that we can work together to achieve to the mission and positive attitude that makes us who we historically high mobilization readiness even with fewer re- are, Coast Guardsmen. sources. As Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Our country sees us every day, saving lives, setting Mike Leavitt succinctly notes in this issue of FRA Today, buoys, conducting law enforcement missions, meeting hu- “Despite constant challenges, Coast Guardsmen accom- manitarian service needs, responding to natural disasters plished so much.” like Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, and responding to man- Finally, as Colleen and I stand relieved by Master Chief made disasters like Deepwater Horizon. That’s what we do: Eric Johnson and his wife Valerie, we reflect on how grateful we prevent and respond to our nation’s needs. That is our we are: grateful for your support and perseverance, and grate- legacy and that is a legacy that I am very proud to be a part ful for the opportunity to serve alongside countless dedicated of. Thank you for your continued support. It has been an shipmates in the FRA, the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast honor and privilege to serve with you. Guard, and your families for the past 37 years. And while our Semper Paratus. status has changed, rest assured our interest in and support of your efforts will not wane. NEW FRA LIFE MEMBERS 30 CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING shipmates who chose to become Life Members during the first quarter of 2014. If you’d like to become a Life Member, call 1-800-FRA-1924 and speak with one of our Member Services representatives. MAY 2014 MAY January Francis Gorman 061 George L Johnson 175 Marion Dubrin 281 Ralph R Bulmer MAL FRA TODAY Sandra Lillo Jolly 132 James D. Cates 126 David Hyde 015 Andrew E Horvath 027 John W Weise 050 Dennis R Higerd MAL Donald A May MAL Merril W Cronce 210 Darrell F McKinley, Jr. 293 Robert E Hoffman MAL Nicholas A Zingaro 285 John W Monroe 006 Stanley Svensen 289 Charles Gates MAL Howard F Heid 070 Ernest C. Woods 275 August G Foreman, Jr. 049 Ray E Rexford, Jr. 026 Leonard J Kruski MAL George D Bess MAL Richard P Hall MAL Harry Brogan MAL Robert A Grogan 047 Scott A Declemente 024 Santiago Y Cobar MAL Marvin E Miller MAL David L Hancock 161 Jerry W Stewart 181 Charles W Owens 091 Ken A. Stephenson 061 Thomas Kalus 046 Joseph R Cudmore 011 Kenneth E McKenzie MAL Kenneth Tate MAL Gary D. Sanders 161 Blackledge E Harper 208 Everett S Wallace 278 Dana W Roach 147 James E Derocher 156 Frederick G. Siler 057 Samantha Slightom 281 Floyd G Hunt 214 E L Cardenis 061 Ben F. Ignacio 099 Robert H Wilson 090 Robert W King, Jr. 014 February Dan Bauer 289 George Sanchez 203 Roger L Hall MAL William S Huebner 248 John M Orkish 175 David Neiman MAL Leonard G Gray 047 Mackey B. Adams MAL Gary D Wright 063 John E Cirullo MAL Byron D Bradley 053 Stephen F Versaggi 210 Darrell E. Severns 046 Frank J Masanz 371 Peter J Beckley MAL Charles D Wetzel MAL Steve Smith 090 Edward Delagarza, Jr. MAL Dan Becker 175 William A Ball MAL George W Sprinkles 327 John L. Raiter 145 Gary Phillips MAL William A Durboraw MAL Robert F Mandaglio, Jr. MAL John W Best MAL James E Ashworth, Jr. MAL Florencio R. Aguilar 154 Robert E Stanley 094 Nemecio Romero 043 Robert E Hammell 210 Richard Lovitt MAL Robert F Zipp 238 Alfred W Baumann, Sr. MAL Laurie A Bailey 269 Dennis Brayton MAL Paul A Yackey MAL Thomas B. Blizard, Jr. 269 Gilbert D. De La Pena 249 Michael E Kandik MAL Raymond J Torrez 087 Richard Vian 163 William E Blevins 089 Richard K Spore MAL Wallace F Goss 022 Michael J. Paridon 103 William K Miller 290 Thomas F Eichler 293 Michael Andrew David Foster 024 Francis R Roberts 126 James Hindel 254 Gallegos, Sr. MAL Bruce A Bigler MAL Edmond L. Melton 249 Larry L Pugh MAL John Thomas 029 Joseph J Pierce 307 March William E Billman Jr MAL Lemuel P Becker 053 Victor A White 024 Richard H Malone, Jr. 043 Richard A. Fitzpatrick MAL Steve S Dudley 166 Gerard Kosciuk 090 Daniel L. Stripes MAL James D Roper MAL Tommy R James MAL James V Guadagnolo 208 Phillip W Marable 084 Paul F Fullbright 201 Gerald E Dubois 042 Stephanie L. Smith 024 Terry Randolph 136 Willard Ventro 024 Albert A Dewald 141 Charles L Blanchard 175 Crisanto B Pagtakhan 010 Phil Bettisworth 162 Kenneth E Studt 093 Harvey E Clayton 055 Mark Dernovsek 222 Walter J Simmons 162 George R Smith MAL Charles V Long 124 James V Harper, II 313 Charles J Millard 141 Randall Fornecker MAL Thomas George Goldader 029 Judy Pickell 061 John T Dube 156 Earl T Lamb, Jr. 020 Michael W. McCarthy 367 Gary W. Poplin 011 Guy W Wilcox 365 Robert W Welch, Sr. MAL James T. Brady 212 Robert E Griffith MAL Frank B Kennedy, III 024 Joseph Joseph 289 Gerald D Jeffers 099 Roland L Thomas 059 Vincent B Tamulaites 289 Richard D Carkhuff 334 James R Bennett 290 Leslie P Leblanc, Jr. MAL Burl Lyons 268 John A Stanko MAL Maynard M Howard MAL Duane Mullen MAL Charles D Decourley 032 Michael Castro 103 Joseph Van Pamel 256 Robert H Bakker MAL Clyde E Baker 261 Charles A Walter 166 D P Scroggins 086 Michael Gookin MAL Richard A Newton MAL Kenneth B Finlay MAL Herbert P Martello, Jr. 162 Kenneth E Walling 104 Robert A Parham MAL Sheldon Y McClaflin 046 1-800-MILITARY (1-800-645-4827) AUTO + HOME + RENTERS + MOTORCYCLE + BOAT Homeowners, renters, and boat coverages are written through non-affi liated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency Inc. Motorcycle coverage is underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states or in all GEICO companies. 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These companies are subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.GEICO, Washington, DC 20076. © 2010 GEICO TAPS In Memoriam 32 NAME BRANCH NAME BRANCH Atkinson, Walter I, ABF1, USN 376 Hendelman, Irwin V, AMSC, USN 299 MAY 2014 MAY Ault, Gene E, HMC, USN 309 Hicks, James (Bob) R, ADRC, USN 026 Hinkle, Robert F, MUC, USN 289 Babcock, John, SKC, USN 161 Holdren, Franklin D, BTCM, USN 194 Badejo, George R, BMC, USN MAL Huff, Robert E, ADC, USN MAL FRA TODAY Baeder, Robert, CDR, USN 024 Barham, Macon, PC1, USN 204 Jenkins, Charles R, STSC, USN 023 Barrett, James T, USN MAL Joyner, James, EMC, USCG 276 Barrett, Ronald R, ADR1, USN MAL Barton, Frank A, CTC, USN 175 Kenney, John M, RM1, USN MAL Benedetto, Victor, ADRC, USN 022 Keyser, Ronald H, GYSGT, USMC 338 Benson, Frederick R, CTRCM, USN 067 Kinnison, William J, PNC, USN MAL NAME BRANCH Bertrand, Horace A, MAJ, USMC 208 Kirchner, A G, ATC, USN 274 Rowell, Thomas W, CTTC, USN MAL Bober, John T, LT, USN 011 Knudson, Jack, DT1, USN MAL Bodenstab, Orin R, MM1, USN MAL Kretz, Terry C, RMCM, USN 166 Saylor, Samuel L, GMCS, USN MAL Bohm, Gerald P, AMSC, USN 147 Seidel, Francis P, AEC, USN 011 Bond, George J, AD1, USN 089 Lacuesta, Candido C, CS2, USN 074 Shumaker, Floyd E, DKCS, USN MAL Bradshaw, Robert F, LCDR (LDO), Lahay, Gerald O, ADJC, USN 001 Sirios, Sotero S, EMCS(SS), USN MAL USN 070 Lauderdale, Leslie L, HMCM, USN 264 Skiffen, Ronald G, AD3, USN MAL Brooner, Otis E, CPO, USN MAL Lee, Royal D, BMCS, USN 281 Smith, William W, ADJC, USN 307 Buckingham, Bruce A, SKC, USN 008 Lemesevski, Alexander, CPO, USN 124 Smith, Carl R, AKC, USN 089 Burtscher, Johnnie D, MAJ, USMC 141 Littlejohn, Fred W, CPO, USN 166 Spoerer, John E, GYSGT, USMC 208 Byrd, Johnnie L, POCS, USN 194 Louth, Thomas J, ADJC, USN MAL Stelting, Art, SGT, USMC 245 Lynch, David E, MRCS, USN MAL Stokas, James, CMC, USN MAL Corcoran, William M, ATCS, USN MAL Stuart, William E, BM3, USN 175 Couch, Myrl L, SMC, USN 099 Madsen, Roy, ADC, USN MAL Swayne, Robert E, CDR, USN 014 Cowen, Donald M, ETC, USN 060 Martinez, Claudio R, MMC, USN 077 Mason, Norman L, RM3, USN MAL Tefelski, Arthur, ETCM, USN MAL Dake, William R, AMH1, USN 177 McAfee, Gifford S, AFCM, USN 089 Tornquist, Wendell E, ENC, USN 281 Dudderar, John W, BM1, USN 006 McDonald, Benjamin, MSC(SS), USN 269 Wasem, Fredrick J, RMCM, USN 024 Ellis, Donald W, TM1(SS), USN 117 McKinlay, Brent H, AE1, USN MAL Webb, Lyman W, EOC, USN 382 Ewer, Kenneth, MMC, USN MAL McNally, Robert E, BMC, USN 071 West, C H, MSGT, USMC 043 Morey, William, YNC, USN MAL Wheeler, Duane R, AMCS, USN 068 Faherty, Francis X, LCDR, USN MAL Wilks, Herman R, ADRC, USN 126 Fillmore, Robert E, ADRC, USN 005 Odey, David F, YN1, USN 163 Wilson, Frank L, ENC, USN 047 Fohey, William L, ABEC, USN 290 Ordway, Harold F, SKC, USN MAL Winkley, Willard R, BTC, USN 053 Freemer, Raymond J, FTCS, USN MAL Owen, Tommie J, LT, USN 022 Friederich, Edward J, LT, USN 267 Fulkerson, Clyde M, ETC, USN 046 Palmer, Lionel W, SGTMAJ, USMC 041 Patterson, William F, BT1, USN 282 Names in red indicate 50 year continuous members. Geiken, Roger W, PNC, USN 145 Pike, Otis G, HON Member, USN 226 Gilbert, Othello, RMCM, USN MAL Publicover, Edward A, GYSGT, Glenn, Clifford, USN 046 USMC MAL Goodale, Kenneth V, HMC, USN 067 Grealish, James V, RADM, USNR 048 Rand, Ramon L, TMCS, USN MAL Rasmussen, W R, ADC, USN 136 Haley, Allan T, ENC, USN 067 Rice, James J, BMC, USN MAL Harcus, James D, GMG2, USN MAL Robinson, William, BM1, USN MAL Hardy, Harold J, SD2, USN 018 Rogers, Leonard, RMC, USN 020 Hedlund, William H, ADRC, USN 011 Rowe, Kenneth G, PN1, USN 061 Celebrate90 YEARS OF FRA Sponsor three new members and receive the 90th Anniversary Pin! To qualify for FRA’s 2014 –2015 Membership Award Program: 1. Sponsor three new, reinstated or rejoined members and receive the collector’s edition “FRA 90th Anniversary” lapel pin. 2. For each new, reinstated or rejoined member you sponsor, you’ll receive an entry in the FRA prize drawing. The more you sponsor, the more entries you earn. 3. Sponsor 32 new members and qualify for an FRA award. 4. Submit completed applications to: FRA, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314 -2754. Remember to include pay- ment and your full name and membership number in the “Sponsored by” section of the application. PRIZES 1st prize winner: Five year membership or cash equivalent: $135 2nd prize winner: Three year membership or cash equivalent: $85.50 3rd prize winner: Two year membership or cash equivalent: $57.00 4th –10th prize winner: One year membership or cash equivalent: $30.00 Qualify for valuable prizes with Artist’s rendering of 90th Anniversary Pin. Actual pin design may vary and is smaller than shown. each Shipmate you sponsor! Join FRA: Membership Application SPONSORED BY: Membership is open to all current or former enlisted members of the Navy, Marine Corps Name:______or Coast Guard. I certify that I fulfill the eligibility requirements and want to join FRA. Member No:______Branch No.:______Annual dues include a subscription to FRA Today magazine. 125 N. West Street Alexandria, VA 22314-2754 Name:______Rate/Rank:______Phone: 703-683-1400 Toll-Free: 1-800-FRA-1924 Address:______www.fra.org Street Lot/Space City State Zip Code Date of Birth:______SSN (optional):______Phone: ( )______ SPECIAL Service:______Status:______Membership Preference: Branch No.______Nearest to Home Member-at-Large OFFER FOR Previous FRA Member: No Yes (If yes, previous Member No.:______) *NEW MEMBERS $48 for 2 years Spouse’s Name:______Your E-mail Address:______Applicant’s Signature:______Date:______ DUES: PAYMENT OPTIONS: 1 Yr. $30.00 MC Visa Discover AMEX Check-enclosed 2 Yrs. $48.00 First time members 2 Yrs. $57.00 Renewing or reinstating* FRA members Credit Card No.______3 Yrs. $85.50 5 Yrs. $135.00 Exp. Date:______NEWS FROM THE BRANCHES 34 BRANCH 338 NASHUA, N.H. and MAY 2014 MAY BRANCH 22 PENSACOLA, FLA. FRA National President Virgil Courneya (far right) and Penny Collins, director of Membership FRA TODAY Development (far left), visited the Washington, D.C., Armed Forces Retirement Home to present longevity pins and certificates to two loyal shipmates. Shipmate Donald Kirouac (Branch 338) celebrated 60 years of continuous FRA membership, while Helen Sadowski (Branch 22) marked her 40th anniversary with the Association. Congratulations, shipmates! BRANCH 94 CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS FRA Branch and Unit 94 teamed with Corpus Christi Navy League to ensure E-6 examinees had breakfast, coffee & juice prior to and after their examination. Pictured (L to R) are PRPSC Don Larson, Branch Vice-President Wayne Bortner, Unit President Pauline Wampler, Sandra Tice, Auxiliary PNP Gini Larson, and the NAS Corpus Christi FCPOA. BRANCH 104 PAYALLUP, WASH. BRANCH 72 FALL RIVER, MASS. Shipmates gather prior to participating in Branch President Edward Bailey Sr. proudly the Auburn Regional Veterans Day Parade. accepts his five-year membership pin from his wife, Sarah. Shipmate Ed served 16 years in the Marine Corps Record Battalion and is currently in his third term as Branch president. BRANCH 182 BETHESDA, MD. Branch President Keith Kaider congratulates Shipmate William “Bill” Harmon on his 60 years of continuous FRA membership! NEWS FROM THE BRANCHES 35 FRA TODAY MAY 2014 BRANCH 14 MILWAUKEE, WISC PRPNC Leon Zalewski (left) and BRANCH 293 ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. Shipmate Robert Reilly participated in an Honor Flight to Washington, DC. Branch Recruiting and Retention Chairman Franklin Gates congratulates AMT1 Tiffany Vansicklen on her selection as USCG Air Station Elizabeth City Enlisted Person of the Quarter. Approximately 100 active-duty Coast Guard members were in attendance at the event, where Vansicklen received a Certificate of Recognition and one-year membership in the FRA. BRANCH 296 AUBURN, CALIF. Branch President “Mac” McKown (right) presents a 40-year Continuous Membership pin and certificate to Branch Vice President “Red” Maurath. BRANCH MAL KERRVILLE, TEXAS FRA congratulates Shipmate Robert “Bud” Tagge on his 65 years of continuous FRA membership. Shipmate Bud thanked FRA for this honor, saying, “Over the years, FRA has always fought for my benefits … with positive results in our favor. Who could ask for more of any organization?” To submit a photo for News From the Branches, please e-mail a BRANCH 217 WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. photo as an attachment in jpeg format to [email protected] or mail a high-quality photograph to FRA Today, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, Shipmate Robert Fulmer presents a $1,000 dona- VA 22314. Please include a brief description of the photograph and tion from the branch to the recently opened Zachary include the names of those pictured. Laser prints and scanned copies & Elizabeth Fisher House at Camp Lejeune, N.C. of photographs cannot be accepted. NEWS FROM THE AUXILIARY OF THE FRA 36 Message from the East Coast Regional President BY THE TIME YOU read this we will almost be through the administrative year. We MAY 2014 MAY completed our East Coast Region Mid-Year Meeting in late March, and a won- derful one it was. The social time was just wonderful. The Welcome Aboard event included a wonderful showcase of Pacific Rim dancing by two young daughters FRA TODAY of a Branch 4 member. They did a really outstanding job, as did our karaoke sing- ers. The banquet was even more special with a fashion show by the Philippine Nurses Association, showcasing how gown styles evolved as the culture changed. The units of the East Coast have been providing many services in their com- ANTOINETTE “TONI” O’NEILL munities. Several attend to various services for seniors, such as shopping, trans- East Coast Regional President portation, meals, and companionship. Many units also provide meals and gifts at the holidays. Members also spend time at veterans’ hospitals and homes, pro- viding both supplies and support. Often it is the time spent that makes such a difference in the lives of those who have defended our freedoms. I am proud of all members of the Region for all that you do to help, not only our own, but also the larger community. We have had both promise and disappointment across our Region with re- spect to membership. The promise is the new generation of young people join- ing our ranks. One of our newest members, Katrina Pappa of Unit 259, received an essay award from PRPEC Joe Palmer. I had the privilege of meeting her and two other young and enthusiastic members, who represent a promising future for our organization. The disappointing aspect comes with the loss of members due to non-payment and the sorrow for those that have gone on. During our Mid-Year Meeting we held a workshop for developing Mentor Programs within our units. I believe that a strong Mentor Program will contribute greatly to re- tention by focusing on our new members to let them know that we value them and their input. Across the Auxiliary, we honor our Sea Service men and women by partici- pating in numerous Memorial Day and Veterans Day commemorations and pa- rades. Our signature commemoration is the National Pilgrimage at Arlington National Cemetery in April. It is a very moving ceremony — paying our respects to those who died for our freedoms. It was a treat to see so many members at- tending this important event. Unit 259, Fayetteville, N.C. FRA PRPEC Joe Palmer congratulates Essay Contest winner Katrina Pappa, who is also a new Auxiliary member. Unit 259, Fayetteville, N.C. Unit 299, Wilmington, N.C. Unit President Linda Campbell initiates Katrina Pappa, Ashley Dittmar, Unit members pose with RPEC Toni O’Neill and RVPEC Teresa Smith. and Lee Pappa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±QRIHH:HGRQRWVXHWKH86RU1DY\3ULQFLSDORI¿FH)RUW:RUWK7; PERIODICAL POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: MEMBER SERVICES FRA 125 N. WEST STREET ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314-2754