JUNE 2020

FORGOTTEN BATTLES OF ATTU & KISKA

INSIDE: 9 On & Off the Hill 26 Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 37 Education Foundation $175,000 IN GOLD COULD BE WORTH OVER ONE MILLION DOLLARS

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©2020 U.S. Money Reserve. *$263.80/oz. (10/27/00) to $1,703.35/oz. (04/29/20). 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. Prices may be more or less based on current market conditions. All calls recorded for quality assurance. Coins enlarged to show detail. Offer void where prohibited. Offer valid while supplies last.

Lead Gen Million Elite_8.125x10.5_FRA36.indd 1 4/29/20 2:38 PM $175,000 IN GOLD COULD BE WORTH Contents OVER ONE MILLION DOLLARS June 2020 Volume 99 Number 6 id you know that if you would have taken $175,000 of your money and bought Dphysical gold in 2000, you would now have over $1 million at today’s gold prices?* That’s an incredible increase of over 525%, outperforming the Nasdaq, Dow, and S&P 500. Many analysts believe that the long-term gold bull run has only just begun and predict its current price to rise—even DOUBLE—in the future. That’s why we believe now is the time to diversify your money with physical gold before prices move to new highs. growth 525% Cover: The Aleutian island of Kiska at sunrise, partially shrouded by clouds, in 1943. Photo courtesy of the Naval History and Heritage Command. Above: Soldiers unloading LCVP and LCM type on the beach at Massacre Bay, Attu, on May 12, 1943. The boats are from USS HEYWOOD (APA-6). Official U.S. Navy photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives. Features “Don’t play games with your money.” The Forgotten Battles of Attu and Kiska: 1943’s Bloody —Chuck Woolery Fight to Retake Japanese-Occupied American Soil USMR customer & paid spokesperson 18 The invasions were part of the combined campaign known in Japan as the Midway- Aleutian Plan. The Aleutian prong of the strategy was intended to divide the American Unlock the secret to wealth protection with Navy among two fronts. YOUR FREE GOLD INFORMATION KIT Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum: The Nation Shuts Down and a Beloved Destination Adjusts U.S. Money Reserve proudly announces As the only gold company led by 26 The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum features three ships berthed in the our release of the ultimate 2020 Gold a former U.S. Mint Director, we harbor, a collection of aircraft from WWII to the modern day and the “Vietnam Information Kit—and it’s yours know trust is our most valuable Experience,” an exhibit re-creating base conditions during that war. absolutely FREE. Plus! Call right now asset. With over 525,000 clients to also receive two exclusive BONUS served, we have a track record A Message to All Veterans reports: 25 Reasons to Own Gold AND of trustworthy and ethical The annual Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime the 2020 Global Gold Forecast. That’s business practices, including Museum was canceled this year. Branch 269’s Stoney Bates, who served as a Marine over 85 pages of insider information an A+ RATING from the 32 during the Vietnam War, was scheduled to be the featured speaker at the event and shares his speech with FRAtoday. you won’t fi nd anywhere else with no Better Business Bureau and CALL NOW purchase required. This essential an average 4.8 out of 5 customer resource answers the most commonly satisfaction rating. Learn more LOYALTY, Departments asked questions about gold ownership, about how we’re dedicated to FREE PROTECTION GOLD KIT AND SERVICE shows how gold can protect and grow your long-term success by calling 2 Communications 42 TAPS your money, and gives you access to U.S. Money Reserve now! As Seen On: The FRA is a congressionally 4 From the Fantail 45 Looking For/Reunions special offers you won’t fi nd anywhere else. chartered, nonprofit organization 6 Shipmate Forum 47 Auxiliary of the FRA News advocating on 9 On & Off Capitol Hill Message from LA FRA National Capitol Hill for President Bea Parco current and former Legislative Updates 48 Finance Matters Call America’s Gold Authority® now! enlisted members 37 FRA Education Foundation of the U.S. Navy, Five Ways to Help Protect Your Marine Corps and 39 Membership Matters VAULT CODE: FRA36 1-855-837-5868 Coast Guard. Family from Fraud 40 Shipmate News ©2020 U.S. Money Reserve. *$263.80/oz. (10/27/00) to $1,703.35/oz. (04/29/20). 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. Prices may be more or less based on current market conditions. All calls recorded for quality assurance. Coins enlarged to show detail. Offer void where prohibited. Offer valid while supplies last. FRAtoday /// June 2020 1

Lead Gen Million Elite_8.125x10.5_FRA36.indd 1 4/29/20 2:38 PM COMMUNICATIONS

National Officers/Board Of Directors National President Donna M. Jansky, North Shore Branch 31 National Vice President Michael “Mick” Fulton, Imperial Beach Branch 289 COVID-19 Sheds Light on Telehealth National Executive Dir. Christopher J. Slawinski, Navy Department Branch 181 Junior PNP Robert , Navy Department Branch 181 National Parliamentarian PNP George P. Hyland, Groton Branch 20 he recent stay-at-home rule due to the COVID-19 virus National Chaplain Paul R. Gunther, Triangle Branch 182 has changed health care forever. One of the solutions that has been used for years, just not by all health care service Regional Presidents providers, is telehealth. Don’t bother looking up this word because Northeast/New England Abe Zino, Buffalo Branch 23 T East Coast Sha'ron D. Martin, Beach Branch 166 it is not found in Merriam-Webster Online — yet. But I’ll bet Southeast Laurie A. Bailey, Low Country Branch 269 you it will be introduced in the very near future. North Central Donald A. Watkins Jr., Omaha-Council Bluffs Branch 276 Telehealth has been used by almost all primary care providers South Central Emmett H. Smith Jr., Shreveport Bossier Branch 98 Southwest John F. Quesnel Jr., Imperial Beach Branch 289 to avoid crowded waiting rooms filled with patients potentially West Coast William S. Matthews, Modesto Branch 197 infected with COVID-19. Its use crosses most health service Northwest William H. Hall, Gem State Branch 382 disciplines, including dentistry, counseling, physical therapy, home health, and many others. Active Duty Advisory Council My wife and I had some medical appointments made at the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Russell Smith beginning of the year and we were contacted by the caregivers Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Troy E. Black Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Jason M. Vanderhaden asking us to call in at the arranged times instead of coming into their offices. We are fortunate that these appointments were just Reserve Advisory Council for our routine annual check ups and lab work. Force Master Chief of the Navy Reserve Christopher D. Kotz Telehealth may improve some of the most challenging Sergeant Major of Marine Forces Reserve Patrick Kimble problems of our current health care system, such as access to care Force Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve George M. Williamson and the cost-effective delivery of advice and prescriptions. Just imagine not having to drive to the doctor’s office and wait your turn for some routine annual questions before going to the lab for FRAtoday Magazine blood work. Wouldn’t it be nice to just go to the lab? The monthly membership publication of the Fleet Reserve Association Publisher Fleet Reserve Association One of the more interesting aspects of telehealth is that it National Executive Director Christopher J. Slawinski increases access to health care for remote patients. Patients Editor-in-Chief William D. Stevenson diagnosed and treated earlier often have improved outcomes and Editor Elise M. Howard less costly treatments. Patients with telehealth supported Intensive Contributing Writer Ann Norvell Gray Design and Art Direction FRA Staff Care Units (often called eICUs) have substantially reduced Advertising Sales: GLM Communications 212-929-1300 mortality rates, reduced complications, and reduced hospital [email protected]

stays. The national average for readmission to hospitals within 30 FRAtoday (ISSN 1935-7192) is published monthly by the FRA, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA. days following a heart failure episode is 20 percent. Telehealth 22314-2754. A member’s subscription is covered by the member’s annual dues. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, Virginia, and additional offices. Publication of nonsponsored monitoring reduced that level to less than 4 percent. Telehealth advertising in FRAtoday does not constitute an endorsement by the FRA or its representatives. Postmaster: Send address changes to Member Services, FRA, 125 N. West St., support to ICUs is reducing mortality rates by 15 to 30 percent Alexandria, VA 22314-2754. FRAtoday is published in the interests of all current and substantially reducing complications and length of stay. So and former enlisted personnel of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Eligible nonmembers are entitled to subscription rates of $45. Established Nov. 1, 1923. telehealth not only reduces health care costs, but it also improves Title registered with the U.S. Patent Office. patient care and comfort. FRA Administrative Headquarters Telehealth also helps the environment by reducing patients’ 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2754 travel, which reduces their carbon footprint. Telehealth improves Telephone: 703-683-1400, 800-FRA-1924 work life for employees who can now interact with their doctor Fax: 703-549-6610 • Email: [email protected] • www.fra.org from anywhere they can get a cell signal. Volume 99 Number 6 Yes, the pandemic forced us all into the world of telehealth while staying inside, but I do think the outcome of this solution is Find us on Facebook: www.fra.org/fb better for everyone. FRA Follow us on Twitter: In Loyalty, Protection and Service, www.twitter.com/FRAHQ William D. Stevenson, Editor-in-Chief Source: Telehealth Resource Center Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/FRA_HQ 2 FRAtoday /// June 2020 As Seen On TV! HearClear GOTM Rechargeable Digital Hearing Aid Technology Only $199!* (*Each when you buy a pair)

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Working Through the New Normal

o, how are you doing?” This has become Social distancing has become the new the opening phrase for most of us in practice. This has led to branches postponing any conversation. While this question or even canceling their in-person meetings. was“S typically an acceptable conversation starter, it Other branches are utilizing both old and has more meaning now that we are living through new technology to meet virtually. Software this critical time in our lives. programs and platforms like Zoom, Skype and Ensuring the health and safety of our family, Microsoft Teams have brought FRA members Chris Slawinski friends and Shipmates has been the primary focus together in virtual meeting spaces using their NED of the FRA since the COVID-19 pandemic home computers, tablets or cellphones. Some began. Based on our membership demographics, branches have used one of the many free services most of us are in the middle of the “higher risk” available online to set up conference calls for their category for the severity of the disease. Taking meetings. additional caution can lessen your potential for This technology has also permitted members being exposed and exposing others. who have not attended meetings in some time — Here at the FRA National Headquarters, due to the travel distance, their health or their age we have established a work-at-home policy, — to be present and engaged in branch activities. where staff members are performing their Recently, the National Football League made everyday functions, but in the safety of their the decision to hold their annual league-wide homes. Members have not experienced much draft virtually. Commissioner Roger Goodell of a lag in services and staff members have been announced the team selections from the comfort communicating via email, telephone or instant of his basement. He even called on the fans who message applications. Staff impressions have been were logged into a league website to provide positive, but we all miss the daily interaction. the traditional “boos” prior to announcing the Branch leadership also has found ways to ensure selections. the word of the association gets out to their fellow The one thing I think this epidemic has shown Shipmates in a variety of ways. us is the importance of staying in contact with Recently, I spoke to a Shipmate who called those we care about. Reaching out by telephone, to ask about another issue. I asked how he and email or the internet, we all know a lot more about the members of his branch were coping with the how we are as a community. local stay-in-place orders. He stated that several Everyone’s hope is to get things back to normal of the members of his branch split up the roster soon, but after the weeks of seclusion, mask- and started a “call tree” to reach out to all the wearing, hand-washing and social distancing, other members and check on their safety. Many what is normal? Caring for our family, friends and Shipmates were grateful for the call and were Shipmates should always be paramount in our surprised by hearing from their branch for the first daily activities. Remember to treat others the way time in years! you want to be treated. Another Shipmate mentioned to me that his Take care of yourselves, wash your hands and branch was aware of a Shipmate from another branch check on your neighbors. This is the best way to who had not been heard from for a while. When they face the new normal. FRA reached out to his family, they could not find out his In Loyalty, Protection and Service, status, so they called the local Adult Social Services Chris Slawinski Office to request a welfare check. The 97-year-old Chris is the FRA’s national executive director and can be contacted at [email protected]. Shipmate was safe and sound at home.

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Open Membership Into the FRA Burial at Sea Veterans of all stripes should be permitted to join any U.S. The letter by Cdr. Williams about Burial at Sea with the Military Organization with FULL MEMBERSHIP. We all porpoises surrounding the casket may have made the hair on fought together, salute the same flag and we all love the same the Commander’s neck stand, but it brought tears to my eyes country. as it appeared to be a God-sent welcoming committee for our The growth in membership would stimulate any and all departed Shipmate. organizations when meeting MIGHT become a problem due A Shipmate of mine knew he was dying of cancer and to distance! Army and Air Force relatives and friends could asked me to help his widow with the paperwork. He also join the FRA too! wanted his ashes spread over water. After the second day, WTC Charles E. Orvis, USN (Ret.) when his ashes were available, his widow, a friend of mine and Member FRA Branch 382 I took him out in his boat that was moored at the marina, to the break water. The weather was overcast with heavy cloud Senior Enlisted Academy cover. As his wife was about to toss his ashes over the side, I That was a very interesting article by FRA National Executive stopped her because the bag could wash up on shore and be Director Slawinski in the February 2020 issue of FRAtoday. identified. When we opened the bag the clouds parted, the The only “problem” I found with it, (in spite of the sun shined through and the rough water calmed — making accolades the NED lauded on the current academy), is that it a perfect day for a “sailor to go back to sea.” Does our God nowhere was any credit given to the CPO Academy that watch over us? I think so. preceded the SEA. The CPO Academy was conducted under Very Respectfully, the auspices of the Navy’s Chief of Education and Training, L.J. “SKI” Vsetecka, now a Life Member of Branch 248, former or CNET, at NATTU Pensacola in the early 1960’s. Life member, Branch 30 The CPO Academy produced countless “Blue Chip” Chief Petty Officers who then set the example of performance for Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo Navy Chiefs. The article Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo brought back I do believe that credit should be given where it is due; the memories for those, like myself, who lived through World CPO Academy set the standard for the pilot project of the War II. However, there was a discrepancy that I would like to Senior Enlisted Academy that later evolved. point out. Three airmen did not die by firing squad, they were, Yours in Loyalty, Protection and Service, in fact, beheaded. The war has long been over but atrocities Mike Goldman, TDC (Ret.) Branch 70, Poway, Calif. such as the beheading are forgiven but certainly not forgotten. We are occasionally reminded by some who consider the The Immigrant Experience in the U.S. Navy being wrong with the A-Bomb at Nagasaki I am responding to your Immigrant Experience article in the and Hiroshima, so please let your readers know that the April issue of FRAtoday. The correct way to spell the name other side committed some very barbaric acts that cannot be of that South American country is C-O-L-O-M-B-I-A, and written off as a “firing squad.” the proper adjective is Colombian. Other than that, it was a Thank you, F. E. Hopton, RMCS. USN (Ret.) very interesting article. Yours in LPS, Nice Remembrance of the Doolittle Raid! Louis A Richards, MMC, USN (Ret.) RPCV A few corrections, IJN RYUHO was under conversion to an from a tender, not construction. FRAtoday author and editor: Thank you for bringing this There was one bomb hit that ricocheted off the drydock misspelling to my attention! One of the downsides of editing into the RYUHOs hull. The three airmen did not face a firing your own writing is that you can easily overlook your own squad, they were executed. https://www.globalsecurity.org/ misspelling habits (and apparently “Colombia” is one of mine!). military/world/japan/ryuho-cvl.htm I sincerely apologize for any offense I may have caused to readers Aloha, Bruce Dewald of Colombian nationality or heritage. Every country deserves the Letters published in Shipmate Forum reflect the opinions and views of respect of being spelled correctly, and I appreciate you giving us the individual FRA members. They do not reflect the position of the FRA. The opportunity to make this correction. FRA is not responsible for the accuracy of letter content. Submit letters to FRAtoday, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314 or to [email protected]

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for stability © 2020 fi rst STREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. 84514 FLEET RESERVE ASSOCIATION 2020-2021 AMERICANISM ESSAY CONTEST The Bill of Rights and me.

Eligibility: Students, grades 7 through 12 Deadline: December 1, 2020 Requirements: 350 words or less about “The Bill of Rights and me.” Website: www.fra.org/essay

For information about the contest, contact: Grand Prize $5,000 School Counselor: ______

FRA Essay Chairman: ______18 National FRA Branch: ______Awards and Regional / Telephone: ______Local Prizes ON OFF & Newscapitol & Notes from the Fleet Reserve Association’s hill Legislative Team

Light at the End of the Tunnel As this issue of FRAtoday goes to press, We hope that as you receive this issue, COVID-19 has forced most of us either many of you Shipmates can at least see light into enforced or self-imposed . at the end of the tunnel regarding the re- Virginia, Maryland and Washington D.C. opening of the American economy. Congress have implemented stay-at-home orders should be back in session and working on that is requiring most people to work from passing the National Defense Authorization home. Most of the FRA headquarter staff are Act (NDAA-H.R.6395), 12 appropriations bills John Davis working from home. and other high priority legislation. Director Legislative Programs Beware of COVID-19 Testing Scams Targeting TRICARE Beneficiaries The Defense Health Agency recently issued Other risk factors include: a warning that while medical professionals • If you’ve come into contact with in the United States and also overseas someone known to have COVID-19. are working hard to combat the novel • If you’ve recently traveled to a CDC- coronavirus, some people are trying to use confirmed infected region. this as an opportunity to take advantage of The people involved in the COVID-19 others. If you receive a telephone call from testing scams are looking to steal personal someone offering to send you a COVID-19 information from beneficiaries. This could testing kit, you could be the target of a include your social security, credit card or scam. According to the Centers for Disease bank account numbers. Don’t provide them Control and Prevention, your medical the opportunity to do it. Anyone receiving care provider is the only person who can a call about COVID-19 testing, should determine if you need testing. Be sure you submit a fraud report online to the DHA talk to your physician if you are experiencing Program Integrity Office at: www.tricare. COVID-19 symptoms, including: mil/ContactUs/ReportFraudAbuse. For more • A fever. information about TRICARE and COVID-19, • A cough. visit: www.tricare.mil/coronavirus. For the • Shortness of breath. latest news on COVID-19, go to www.cdc.gov and www.fema.gov.

NewsBytes is the FRA’s weekly legislative update. If you would like to subscribe, please email: [email protected]. Include your name and contact information in the body of the email. If you are a member of the FRA or LA FRA, please include your member number.

FRAtoday /// June 2020 9 ON OFF & capitolYour Mission, hill Your Voice

FRA Supports Pharmacy Home Delivery Co-pay Waiver in the Next Stimulus Bill Some TRICARE As FRAtoday goes to press, the FRA exposure. There is no co-pay to fill Beneficiaries Will is working to include a TRICARE prescriptions in-person at the MTF Get a Refund Pharmacy Home Delivery co-pay pharmacy, but many beneficiaries The Defense Health Agency has waiver in the next stimulus bill. This pay between $10 and $60 for each announced that many TRICARE will be the fourth stimulus aimed at medication filled through TRICARE’s Prime, TRICARE Select, and US reducing the economic and financial mail-order pharmacy service. This Family Health Plan beneficiaries impact of COVID-19. co-payment structure creates a will receive notification that they Pharmacies at military treatment strong incentive for patients to may be eligible for refunds if facilities are often crowded with visit an MTF pharmacy, potentially they have paid more than $2,400 beneficiaries, which include exposing themselves, their families, out of their own pockets toward retirees, active duty service active duty service members their medical care in 2018, 2019 members and their families, as and military health personnel, to or 2020. This issue only affects well as the pharmacy staff. With COVID-19. This exposure could be those TRICARE-eligible households patients coming to pharmacies avoided by eliminating co-payments who exceeded or came close to for prescription refills amid for TRICARE’s mail-order pharmacy exceeding their catastrophic cap in the COVID-19 pandemic, MTF during the public health emergency. 2018, 2019 or 2020. pharmacies are becoming even As FRAtoday goes to press, there In 2018, the DHA directed that busier and more crowded than are ongoing negotiations with the annual fee paid by retirees no usual. This is exactly the opposite of provisions in the next stimulus bill. longer counted toward their yearly effective social distancing. Once there is agreement, the bill out-of-pocket maximum. However, Earlier, the FRA and several other will move very quickly. Members last summer that decision was organizations dispatched a letter to are urged to use the FRA Action reversed and applied retroactively key lawmakers (the chairmen and Center located on the website to 2018 and 2019, resulting in ranking members of the Senate and (www.fra.org) to ask their legislators refunds for those who exceeded House Armed Services committees) to support putting a provision in their catastrophic cap in 2018, requesting an immediate waiver of the next stimulus bill that would 2019, or 2020, or those who would co-payments for TRICARE mail-order temporarily waive TRICARE mail- have exceeded it if their annual prescriptions for the remainder of order pharmacy co-pays. This would fee had been included in their out- the COVID-19 national emergency to help ensure beneficiaries are not of-pocket cost calculations, which protect service members, retirees, exposed to COVID-19 and do not could total up to $3,600 for most their families and vital medical staff. experience unexpected costs for retirees. The association is also working to medications. Retirees who are eligible include a pharmacy co-pay waiver The FRA will also work to put should be getting refund provision in the FY2021 Defense these provisions in the FY2021 notification letters from TRICARE’s authorization bill. Defense Authorization bills. contractors — Health Net Federal The pharmacy co-pay structure If you would like to switch to Services in the West Region and strongly incentivizes beneficiaries to home delivery, go to: https:// Humana Military in the East. The fill prescriptions in-person at MTF tricare.mil/CoveredServices/ reimbursements can be applied as pharmacies, rather than through BenefitUpdates/ an account credit toward future mail-order options that would Archives/03_31_2020_military_ enrollment fees or retirees can reduce the risk of novel coronavirus pharmacy_changes_covid19. request a cash refund.

10 FRAtoday /// June 2020 OWN THE MOST IMPORTANT COIN OF CHRISTIAN HISTORY 1,600-Year-Old Coin From the First Christian Emperor

onstantine the Great was the world’s first Christian Emperor. CBut he didn’t start out that way... Ruling from A.D. 307 to 337, Constantine began as many of his reign as a worshiper of Sol Invictus, “The Unconquerable Sun.” But after a vision of the Cross led to his victory at the legendary Battle of the Milvian Bridge, and later to him being crowned sole Emperor of the Roman Empire, Constantine shifted his beliefs. Approximately 20 mm Believing that Sol Invictus and Christ From “Sun God” to were one and the same, Constantine Most coins that survive that long appear “Son of God” flat and worn out—but not these coins! legalized Christianity, allowing it to We recently located a cache of these flourish. He merged the worship of Sol 1,600-year-old coins, each featuring Invictus and Christ, creating religious Each piece has been individually Sol Invictus on its obverse. This was authenticated and certified by practices still observed by modern-day a savvy move by Constantine, who Christians. And he authorized the striking Numismatic Guaranty Corporation was converting the Roman Empire to (NGC) as incredible About Uncirculated of this Nummus coin—the first true coin Christianity with a merging of religions. of a Christian Empire, and thus the most (AU) condition—almost as good as new! important coin of Christian history. It wasn’t until A.D. 692 that an image of Reserve Your Coin Today! Christ appeared on circulating coinage— Order now and you can claim the first a full 355 years after this coin was struck. coin of Christianity—struck under Two Religions Become One As Constantine used the image of Sol To help convert the Romans, the rule of the world’s first Christian Invictus to spread the Christian gospel, Emperor—for less than $100! Constantine associated Sol Invictus this is truly the first coin of Jesus Christ! with Christ: But you’ll have to move quickly—only 4 On December 25th, the Romans A Legend More Than 65 of these 1,600-year-old coins of honored Sol with a winter solstice 1,680 Years in the Making Constantine the Great are available feast. Under Constantine, this For nearly seventeen centuries, these certified in AU condition. became a celebration of Christ stunning coins have survived earthquakes, (Christmas). floods, and the rise and fall of empires. Hold 1,600-year-old Christian history in 4 In A.D. 321, Constantine declared your hands. Call now! “Sun Day” as a day to rest and Coin of Constantine, the First Christian worship Sol Invictus. Upon Emperor $99.95 + s/h converting, Constantine kept Sunday as the new Christian day of rest FREE SHIPPING on 2 or More! (instead of Saturday). Limited time only. Product total over $149 before taxes (if any). Standard domestic shipping only. 4 Constantine merged the celebration Not valid on previous purchases. of Christ’s resurrection with that of Call today toll-free for fastest service the vernal equinox, moving Easter to the Sunday after the first full moon 1-888-517-8599 of the equinox. Offer Code BCC213-01 Deluxe Coin Holder Please mention this code when you call.

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34 Reps. Demand SecDef Helps Military Pentagon Deploys Work-at-Home Strategy Families Impacted by Stop Movement Order to Limit Exposure for Employees Thirty-four U.S. representatives have dispatched a letter to The Pentagon workforce has shifted to a “maximum Secretary of Defense Mark Esper urging the Department of telework” status to limit the spread of COVID-19. Defense to provide more direction and support to help service “We are creating a much more robust, enhanced members and military families who have been financially teleworking capability,” Defense Department Chief impacted by the Pentagon’s 60-day “stop movement” orders. Information Officer Dana Deasy recently told reporters “While the stop-movement order was noble and necessary, at the Pentagon. “What we’ve done is put a multiplier this unprecedented action left thousands of military families in effect into the quantity, types of services, etc. There will extreme financial distress,” the letter stated. be some permanency to what we have here, specifically Two “stop movement” orders were issued in March by the more on the network side. We will also have created a Defense Secretary in response to the spreading coronavirus base of teleworking equipment that we will be able to, outbreak. They barred all DOD travel, including military moves in some cases, reuse for other purposes. But yes, there and redeployments. The travel restrictions have impacted will be an enhanced teleworking capability that will be thousands of service members and their families around the sustained at the end of COVID-19.” world. The inability to follow through with their change of The Navy’s Outlook Web Access service went from station, separation or retirement moving plans has made many 10,000 to 80,000 users within a week and very soon pay for two residences, repurchase necessities and, in some there will be 300,000. The Marines went from a remote cases, miss out on civilian job opportunities. Some military work capacity of 70,000 to more than 105,000 in just a families have found themselves in extreme financial distress. The couple of weeks. letter urges the DOD to provide the necessary assistance and However, the Government Accountability Office claims resources to the thousands of military families under extreme the Defense Department has failed to adequately protect financial distress as a result of the “stop movement”order. its computer and information systems from common and In the letter, members wrote, “We strongly urge you to pervasive cybersecurity threats. A recent GAO report show the same level of swift action you did in issuing the Stop indicates that cybersecurity initiatives at the Department Movement Order to exercise every measure within your authority of Defense are incomplete — or their status is unknown to provide the Services with the guidance and resources needed because no one is in charge of reporting on progress. to ensure care and support to every military member and family adversely affected by this order.” The letter was signed by: U.S. Reps. Debra Haaland (N.M.), James P. McGovern (Mass.), Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.), Matt Gaetz The DOD Mandates Mask-Wearing on Base (Fla.), Jackie Speier (Calif.), Cheri Bustos (Ill.), Denny Heck As FRAtoday goes to press, the Pentagon has tightened its (Wash.), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (Va.), Madeleine Dean (Pa.), Tulsi policy on face masks to help stop the spread of COVID-19, Gabbard (), Gilbert R. Cisneros Jr. (Calif.), Veronica issuing new guidance that requires all military and civilian Escobar (Texas), Jason Crow (Colo.), William Lacy Clay (Mo.), personnel, along with family members, contractors and Doug Lamborn (Colo.), Elaine G. Luria (Va.), Terri Sewell (Ala.), guests, to wear a cloth face covering if they are unable Anthony Brindisi (N.Y.), Ruben Gallego (Ariz.), Michael Waltz to stay at least 6 feet away from others while on military (Fla.), Joe Wilson (S.C.), Tony Cardenas (Calif.), Anthony G. Brown installations. This does not apply to a service member’s (Md.), Stephen F. Lynch (Mass.), Vicki Hartzler (Mo.), Lauren home on a military base. Defense Secretary Mark Esper Underwood (Ill.), Julia Brownley (Calif.), Seth Moulton (Mass.), has said this policy is designed to bring the Pentagon Mike Levin (Calif.), Jamie Raskin (Md.), Salud Carbajal (Calif.), in compliance with the Centers for Disease Control William R. Keating (Mass.), Colin Allred (Texas) and Eleanor and Prevention’s recommendations on preventing the Holmes Norton (District of Columbia). transmission of COVID-19.

12 FRAtoday /// June 2020 Finally… a better mobility solution than Scooters or Power Chairs. The Zoomer‘s versatile design and 1-touch joystick operation brings mobility and independence to those who need it most.

Sturdy & If you have mobility issues, or know someone who does, Lightweight then you’ve experienced the difficulties faced by millions of Joystick Control Frame Americans. Once simple tasks like getting from the bedroom (adaptable left or right) to the kitchen can become a time-consuming and potentially dangerous ordeal. You may have tried to solve the problem Comfortable with a power chair or a scooter but neither is ideal. Power Seating chairs are bulky and look like a medical device. Scooters are either unstable or hard to maneuver. Now, there’s a better alternative… the Zoomer. After just one trip around your home in the Zoomer, you’ll marvel at how easy it is to navigate. It is designed to maneuver in tight spaces like doorways, between furniture, and around corners. It can go over thresholds and works great on any kind of floor or carpet. It’s not bulky or cumbersome, so it can roll right up to a table or desk- there’s no need to transfer Powerful Battery/ to a chair. Its sturdy yet lightweight aluminum frame makes Dual Motors Swivel Away it durable and comfortable. It’s dual motors power it at up to Footrest 3.7 miles per hour and its automatic electromagnetic brakes 12” stop on a dime. The rechargeable battery powers it for up to 8 miles on a single charge. Plus, it’s exclusive foldable Folds to 12” in seconds Who can drive a Zoomer? – everyone! design enables you to transport it easily and even store it in The secret to the Zoomer is its simple steering system. a closet or under a bed when it’s not in use. You operate it with a simple-to-use joystick, giving you Why spend another day letting mobility issues hamper your precision maneuverability and the ability to navigate lifestyle? Call now and find out how you can have your very tight spaces easily with a 25” turning radius. It is own Zoomer. designed to let you pull right up to a table or desk. You no longer have to move to another chair to work or eat at your table

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Ready to get your own Zoomer? We’d love to talk to you. Call now toll free and order one today! 1-888-861-2156 Please mention code 112941 when ordering. The Zoomer Chair is a personal electric vehicle and is not a medical device nor a wheelchair. Zoomer is not intended for medical purposes to provide mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position. It is not covered by Medicare nor Medicaid. © 2020 fi rst STREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. 85019 ON OFF & capitolYour Mission, hill Your Voice VA and IRS Working to Get COVID-19 Payments to Veterans Acting SecNav Resigns Over Reaction to The recently enacted Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Carrier Captain Being Relieved Act (CARES - H.R.748, P. L.116-136) allows the Department of Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas B. Moldly has Veterans Affairs to work directly with the Internal Revenue Service resigned after the backlash he received relieving the and U.S. Treasury Department to ensure delivery of Economic Impact captain of the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT, Brett Cozier, Payments to veterans and survivors who receive VA Compensation only a day after he told the press he would not take such and Pension benefit payments. This will be done without the action. Moldly addressed the ship’s crew and expressed his beneficiary doing additional paperwork or IRS filings. anger over Crozier’s letter warning that sailors would die This law authorizes the Treasury Department to automatically if they weren’t swiftly evacuated from the virus-infected issue EIPs to recipients of non-taxable VA benefits who did not file aircraft carrier. The acting secretary of the Navy said the annual income tax returns for 2018 or 2019. VA and the IRS have been captain was “too naive or too stupid to be a commanding collaborating since the passage of the act on March 27 to ensure officer of a ship like this.” After Moldly addressed the veterans receive their EIPs. crew, Rep. Adam Smith (Wash.), chairman of the House “Many have expressed concern that veterans and their Armed Services Committee, called for Moldly’s dismissal. beneficiaries would be overlooked during the distribution of Economic Secretary of Defense Mark Esper released a letter Impact Payments from the CARES Act simply because they don’t explaining Moldly’s resignation and appointing current file an annual tax return,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “This Army Undersecretary Jim McPherson as acting Secretary collaboration will ensure our veterans receive CARES Act payments of the Navy. without any additional action or paperwork required.” Jim McPherson is a retired Admiral with a distinguished For VA beneficiaries who filed a Form 1040 for 2018 or 2019, those 26 year naval career, serving ashore, afloat and overseas payments will also be automatic. No further action is needed. They during his time in uniform. Esper wrote, “Jim will serve can track the status of their payments using the “Get My Payment” as acting Secretary of the Navy until a permanent Navy tool on IRS.gov. For non-tax filing VA beneficiaries, please note their Secretary is confirmed.” information will be loaded on this tool within the next few weeks. Esper’s letter noted that he briefed President Trump on For VA beneficiaries who didn’t file a tax return in 2018 or 2019 Moldly’s resignation and that the chief of naval operations, and have a dependent, there is a special step they need to take, Adm. Michael M. Gilday, launched an investigation and the sooner the better. They should use the “Non-Filer: Enter regarding the U.S.S. THEODORE ROOSEVELT, which is Payment Info Here” tool on IRS.gov. By quickly taking steps to presently underway. “Any further action regarding the enter information on the IRS website about themselves and their former commanding officer, Captain Crozier, will wait until qualifying children, they can receive $500 per dependent child in that investigation is completed,” he wrote. As FRAtoday addition to their $1,200 individual payment. The VA reports that goes to press, the report has not been released. many non-tax-filing beneficiaries have already begun using the IRS Economic Impact Payment portal at: www.freefilefillableforms. Student Veteran Housing Bill Enacted com/#/fd/EconomicImpactPayment to provide the necessary data President Trump signed into law (P.L.116-128) legislation, to the IRS to receive their EIP. There will be no interruption to sponsored by Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman payments being processed by using the IRS portal, and veterans Jerry Moran (Kan.). This bill will make sure student veterans with internet access are encouraged to continue providing impacted by COVID-19-related school closures will not get their information and track their EIP through the IRS portal. For those monthly housing stipends reduced. Since many classes are who do not have access or choose not to use the IRS portal, their switching to online instruction, the VA had determined those EIP will be processed without further action on their part. students should receive the “Exclusively Online Training” housing While no date for distribution has been set at this time, the VA rate, which is significantly less than the rate for in-person class is securely sharing necessary beneficiary data with the Treasury, attendance. Moran quickly stepped in to make sure student to begin the issuance of EIPs. For more information on CARES veterans using distance learning due to the outbreak would not Act Economic Impact Payments, visit www.irs.gov/newsroom/ be affected. The bipartisan, bicameral bill quickly passed the economic-impact-payments-what-you-need-to-know. House and Senate before being signed into law by the president.

14 FRAtoday /// June 2020 You’ve traveled long and far… LEAVE A LEGACY of Loyalty, Protection and Service

Your involvement in the Fleet Reserve Association demonstrates extraordinary commitment to improving the quality of life for your shipmates and their families. Please consider joining other shipmates who’ve chosen to leave a legacy of Loyalty, Protection and Service by remembering FRA or the FRA Education Foundation in your will, living trust or estate plan.

Create a lasting tribute and perpetuate your commitment to the guiding principles of our organization.

To learn more, contact FRA National Headquarters at 1-800-672-1924 or 703-683-1400, or via email at [email protected] ON OFF & capitol hill

HVAC Chairman and Ranking Member Ask VA to Postpone Changes to Claims Process House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mark Takano pandemic. Therefore, we urge the department to consider (Calif.) and Ranking Member Dr. Phil Roe (Tenn.) sent a postponing any change to the 48-hour review period until after bipartisan letter to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie, VA, VSOs and Congress are able to have a more thorough calling on the VA to postpone their planned elimination of the discussion about this policy change.” 48-hour review period in the disability claims process and work “VSOs as well as other representatives and agents, provide with veterans service organizations to consider alternatives to a veterans and their loved ones with invaluable assistance while complete elimination of this review. Six major VSOs had already navigating the Department’s disability claims process,” Takano expressed their concern over the decision in a letter to Wilkie, and Roe wrote. “The 48-hour review period provides a brief stating that the “VA made this decision without consulting opportunity for VSOs to review rating decisions for errors or with VSO partners about the impact this change would have on technical corrections before the decisions are finalized, thereby veterans” in addition to changing rules “amidst the chaos of the quickly and efficiently improving the accuracy of claims and COVID-19 crisis.” reducing the need for appeals. VSOs believe that elimination of Takano and Roe wrote: “Our country is facing an this review period could result in delayed benefits for veterans unprecedented emergency in light of the current COVID-l9 and an increase in appeals or other formal corrective action.”

Many Veterans to get Letter from VA on Medical Cost Reimbursement Certain veterans who were denied reimbursement for non- veterans who seek non-department medical care violates department emergency medical care will be getting a letter existing federal law. They ordered VA officials to re-examine from the Department of Veterans Affairs informing them that more than 72,000 rejected claims and update their rules, they will be reimbursed for their emergency room expenses if arguing the VA has a responsibility to cover the costs of they were not covered by private insurance. unexpected medical visits. This case (Wolfie v. Wilkie) was first On Sept. 9, 2019, the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans reported in the Sept. 20, 2019, issue of NewsBytes. Claims ruled (18-6091) that the VA’s current regulation for The case centers on veterans whose unpaid emergency room expenses were denied by VA officials under existing policies. The plaintiffs’ both had part of their bills paid for by other insurance but were left with several thousand dollars in personal costs. VA officials argued in court that they did not need to handle the unpaid balance because the veterans were primarily covered under other insurance plans. The court ruled that policy violated both existing law and past legal precedent. The ruling invalidated all VA decisions denying reimbursement for deductibles and co-insurance costs not covered for emergency visits at non-VA facilities. VA officials have estimated that full compliance with the court order could cost between $1.8 billion and $6.5 billion. Reimbursements may be issued for cases decided by the VA as far back as 2016. The letters come as many veterans are facing new debts related to work interruptions and other financial problems due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. However, processing of the claims is likely to take several months and may be stalled further by ongoing legal appeals. FRA

16 FRAtoday /// June 2020 B:8.5” T:8.25” S:7.75” B:10.75” T:10.5” S:10” I SERVED FOR Honor

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The 8-inch/55-mm guns of Turret 3 on the USS SALT LAKE CITY (CA-25). Notice the heat scale on the tubes from extensive firing during the action at Dutch Harbor in the in March of 1943. If you look closely, you can see snow flakes falling. Photo courtesy of the Naval History and Heritage Command.

18 FRAtoday /// June 2020 FEATURE The Forgotten Battles of Attu & Kiska 1943’s Bloody Fights to Retake Japanese-Occupied American Soil. By Mike Moran

rom June 6-7, 1942 — just months after the attack on Pearl Harbor — a naval task force of the Japanese 5th Fleet seized the remote American islands of Attu and Kiska, 1,700 miles southwest of Anchorage, , in Fthe Aleutian Islands. Led by two Imperial aircraft carriers and escorted by heavy and light , , , seaplane tenders and support vessels, the Japanese operation quickly overwhelmed the Alaskan Sea Frontier forces, which consisted of two antiquated destroyers, three Coast Guard cutters, a gunboat and several converted fishing boats. Japan immediately began to consolidate its position on Attu, establishing fortifications, constructing an airfield, and camouflaging barracks and supply positions. Japanese forces also began supplying troops to hold their strategic positions on both islands. They would be the only U.S. soil Japan would claim during the war in the Pacific. The invasions were part of the combined campaign known in Japan as the Midway-Aleutian Plan. The Aleutian prong of the strategy was intended to divide the American Navy among two fronts. The primary objective of the campaign

FRAtoday /// June 2020 19 FEATURE

The USS PENNSYLVANIA (BB-38) fires its 14-inch main battery guns at Japanese installations in the Holtz Bay area of Attu on May 11, 1943. Photo courtesy of the Naval History and Heritage Command.

was Midway, which Japan intended to capture while ambitious Central Pacific push and rendered their destroying the remaining American Pacific Fleet. success in the Northern Pacific strategically irrelevant. What Japan’s intentions were for the Aleutian On the American homefront, Midway also campaign after the capture of Midway remains garnered most of the newspapers’ attention, providing unclear. The Aleutians were poorly defended outposts a much-needed boost to morale. Still, on the that presented a clear route for an invasion of Alaska, interior pages and in smaller typeset, The Associated Canada and America. The islands also served as Press reported the Japanese consolidation of their key observation posts in the strategic defense of the positions on the two U.S. islands. Stories carried Japanese homeland and gave Japan control of the announcements from Japanese Imperial headquarters sea-lanes across the Northern Pacific. Adm. Isoroku that the island of Attu was henceforth to be known as Yamamoto’s simultaneous operation at Midway was Atsuta and Kiska as Narukami. intended to secure control of the Central Pacific. Taking Attu Back The Forgotten Battle In June 1942, U.S. forces in the Pacific were in no The Aleutians’ combat is today overshadowed by the position to launch an immediate counteroffensive. On far larger conflict that took place at Midway, in no the heels of the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor small part due to the fact that the Battle of Midway and the string of Japanese successes across the Pacific represented one of the most stunning American theater, the U.S. took months to leverage its industrial victories in the history of naval warfare. The capacity to establish, reorganize and modernize its decimation of the Japanese fleet both ended Japan’s forces.

20 FRAtoday /// June 2020 FEATURE

The USS HEYWOOD (APA-6) hoists out LCVPs, off Attu on the first day of the invasion on May 11, 1943. Note binnacle mounted in front of the ship’s open bridge, in the lower left center. Official U.S. Navy photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives.

Ultimately the decision to retake Attu was driven destroyers, three vintage , and by the estimation that it would take less time and the carrier USS NASSAU (CVE-16). fewer resources — resources desperately needed in the Central Pacific — to confront the enemy forces than Conditions on Attu it would to and eventually starve them out. While the U.S. prepared their forces in early 1943, Public sentiment about American soil being held by Japanese intelligence suspected that America had belligerent forces was also a factor. plans to assault Attu as early as June, when the Rear Adm. Francis W. Rockwell gathered joint weather would be most favorable. Col. Yasuyo Army-Navy planning staff in late January 1943 to Yamazaki arrived by submarine on April 19, 1943, to develop plans for the assault. Adm. Kinkaid was assume command of the garrison. placed in overall command with Rockwell leading the While Yamazaki benefitted from seasoned amphibious forces. commissioned and non-commissioned officers, he Maj. Gen. Albert W. Brown led the 7th Infantry found that many of his front-line troops were older Division, the ground troops charged with taking the men and raw recruits. He knew he would have to island. Based in Fort Ord in Monterey, California, fight with the forces he had on hand, as he would be the “California Division” had been activated in cut off from personnel replacements and resupply as 1940 and trained extensively for desert warfare in U.S. naval forces arrived. North Africa. These forces would be transported by But Yamazaki also understood that his greatest four Navy attack transports and brought ashore by advantage was the knowledge his men had gained Higgins boats. The convoy would be supported by 15 while occupying Attu’s inhospitable environment

FRAtoday /// June 2020 21 FEATURE

Troops in landing boats alongside the USS HEYWOOD (APA-6) off Attu, Aleutian Islands, May 11th, 1943. U.S. Navy photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives.

for nearly a year. Attu was a barren 20- by 35- uninsulated leather boots and dry-climate field mile volcanic island featuring precipitous conical jackets, many troops assumed their immediate mountains reaching 3,000 feet above the shore destination to be Hawaii. and covered in ash and cinder. The lowlands were U.S. intelligence had incorrectly estimated Japanese dominated by a spongy muskeg comprised of water- forces at just 500 with no coastal defense and few saturated mosses and dead vegetation as deep as anti-aircraft guns. In reality, nearly 2,400 well- 3 feet. The muskeg rendered wheeled and tracked supplied Japanese troops awaited the Americans vehicles inoperable and made walking difficult. on Attu. Planning was also conducted with U.S. Occasional bogs — with visually undetectable water Geological Survey maps that only provided terrain trapped just under the surface — were frequently information 1,000 yards inland from the shores. Army responsible for the loss of men who fell through. historians, writing later in “The Western Hemisphere: Furthermore, the island received 40-50 inches Guarding the United States and Its Outposts,” noted of rainfall per year with fewer than 10 clear days that “Seldom had operations been planned with less annually. Sea and air navigation were constantly at knowledge of what the troops would have to face.” risk of sudden gales resembling enormous waterfalls that swept down from the mountains. While fog was Making Landfall Under Unexpected predominant even when rain was not falling, transient Conditions microclimates crossed the island unpredictably, In preparation for the troop landings, the 11th Army producing patches of good visibility with dense fog Air Force had dropped 155 tons of bombs on Kiska only a few miles distant. and another 95 tons on Attu during the first 10 days The Japanese forces were acclimated to these of May 1943. The U.S. assault force arrived offshore conditions, and held the high ground with facilities on May 7, only to delay the assault by four days due they had months to construct. The Japanese also to unexpectedly high winds and high surf. During the benefitted from interior supply lines connected by delay, the USS MACDONOUGH (DD- trails and powered . 351) and the minelayer USS SICARD (DM-20) The American forces that loaded the westbound collided in a dense fog and were forced to withdraw ships from California in late April 1943 had a 3-1 to Amchitka, Alaska. The MACDONOUGH had advantage over the Japanese forces, as well as air been tasked with fire control for naval gunfire, and the superiority and overwhelming naval and artillery SICARD was to have provided support for landing support. But these advantages were hampered by craft. poor intelligence and key failures in provisioning On May 11, Higgins boats were finally lowered, the troops. Departing temperate California in their and the first wave of the assault forces were

22 FRAtoday /// June 2020 FEATURE

Soldiers unload landing craft on the beach at Massacre Bay, Attu, on May 13, 1943. The LCVPs in the foreground are from the USS ZEILIN (APA-3) and USS HEYWOOD (APA-6). Official U.S. Navy photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives. transferred to their landing craft at 8:40 a.m. Yamazaki had positioned only a small number of However, sudden fog kept the troops circling skirmishers on the beaches to harass U.S. troops and offshore, cramped in the overcrowded boats, until report on landing positions and numbers. Yamazaki mid-afternoon, when a break in the fog allowed the primarily positioned his men at the narrow heads boats to finally land ashore. of valleys in concealed places that took advantage To their surprise, the U.S. troops who swarmed of low-hanging fog. By drawing his opponent up the beaches encountered little initial resistance from the narrowing valleys, Yamazaki could concentrate the Japanese. fire from concealed machine guns, rifles and “We had been in boats all day long waiting to grenade launchers on exposed U.S. troops moving come to the island,” Pvt. Raymond Baun of the 3rd steeply uphill. While U.S. forces would struggle Battalion, 17th Infantry Division recalled in “The to even identify the enemy at the edge of the fog Capture of Attu: A World War II Battle as Told by ceiling, Japanese forces would have a clear view of the Men Who Fought There.” “Then we landed in advancing Americans and had sited their mortars fog as thick as mashed potatoes, expecting a wild on the few shallow depressions that offered the only dash across the beach with bullets flying, and there cover. weren’t any.” Yamazaki’s use of the terrain also greatly reduced The Higgins boats returned to deliver the second the numerical advantage of U.S. troops, who had wave by approximately 9 p.m., bringing U.S. forces to leave their supply and support infrastructure ashore up to 2,000 men, all commanded by Col. on the beaches because the muskeg prevented Edward D. Earle. The Higgins boats continued to vehicles from moving any appreciable distance shuttle men and artillery ashore throughout the inland. This meant two men had to be dedicated night, although visibility was so poor that one boat to supply every soldier directly engaged beyond the dropped its bow ramp 1,000 feet offshore and sank reach of mechanized support, and four men were with all hands. required to carry each wounded soldier’s stretcher Rather than overcommit his comparatively over increasing distances back to the hospitals on smaller force in defense of the extensive shoreline, the shore. As progress inland continued, it could

FRAtoday /// June 2020 23 FEATURE

From an advanced command post on , a detail of soldiers carry back a wounded comrade. Note the rough terrain. Japanese snipers generally kept just above the fog line. Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress.

take up to two days to get a wounded soldier from With his men starving, almost out of ammunition the front line back to the rear. Wet conditions also and surrounded on four sides, Yamazaki organized damaged radio equipment, forcing more troops to be his entire force for a suicidal nighttime charge on an repurposed as communications runners. American supply base. While Japanese forces had What had been estimated to be a three-day assault conducted mass charges in other battles, this was the ultimately dragged on for more than three weeks, first banzai attack by a full garrison. with the weather and terrain proving to be as big The surprise attack overwhelmed an inexperienced a factor in mission success as any tactic employed U.S. unit deployed forward while they were in the by either force. By May 14, U.S. battleships had midst of an early breakfast at 3 a.m. U.S. commissioned expended all high explosive rounds available, and and non-commissioned officers from a rear-echelon artillery ashore was proving ineffective against well- engineer company formed a defensive line out of the concealed Japanese positions. retreating infantry and broke the wave of the attack. By dawn, the Japanese assault was reduced to isolated The Turning Point bands of resistance. All but 28 of the 700 Japanese U.S. forces ultimately turned the battle with a soldiers died by American fire or their own hand in the surprise flank attack that originated from a separate early hours of May 29. Over the 19 days of battle, 549 landing on the northeast portion of the island, where soldiers of the 7th Division had been killed, 1,148 had Yamazaki had considered a landing impossible and been wounded, and 2,100 had suffered non-combat had therefore failed to establish outposts. injuries and diseases. The Japanese had lost more than By May 17, the amphibious assault had yielded to 2,351 men, including Yamazaki, who was found with mountain warfare as U.S. forces began to seize the only a sword in his hand. high ground. But progress had come at a great cost. More than 11,000 U.S. troops were now ashore, but Retaking Kiska the 7th Infantry was reporting 1,100 casualties, with Following the unexpected challenges of the Battle 500 of those due to exposure alone. Japanese forces of Attu, American forces approached Kiska more had also suffered extensive casualties, defending cautiously. They took over two months to plan the positions with their lives and resolutely refusing assault, resupply and call upon Canadian allies for surrender on an individual level. assistance. All the while, they maintained a naval blockade around the island, bombed it intensively and The Final Banzai Charge fired upon it with shipboard explosives. On Aug. 15, By May 29, three weeks after the American assault 1943, 34,000 American and Canadian forces finally began, Yamazaki’s forces had been reduced to 700. made landfall on Kiska, ready to face an even larger

24 FRAtoday /// June 2020 FEATURE

Troops march past the white crosses of an Attu cemetery on the bleak Aleutian Island, where soldiers prepare to fire a volley shot in honor of their fallen comrades. In the background, the rolling fog presses downward, emphasizing the solemnity of the occasion. Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress. force than they had confronted on Attu. The Legacies of Attu and Kiska But the beaches were empty, and this time, it Despite the relative lack of attention to the Aleutian wasn’t because the Japanese fighters were waiting in front then and now, the stories of Attu and Kiska are the mountains for a clear shot. Thousands of soldiers important on both a historical and human level. The anxiously combed the island for 8 days in the shifting bloody hand-to-hand fighting on the stark landscape fog, resulting in 28 friendly fire casualties. An additional during the final day of the Battle of Attu was second 70 men were lost when the destroyer USS ABNER only to Iwo Jima in the highest percentage of READ (DD-526) struck a mine in the harbor. But for American casualties during the war. The Battle of Attu all the treacherous searching, only the scorched remains also reinforced the American victory at Midway and of abandoned supplies and the occasional booby trap made it clear that Japan would from that point on be testified to the Japanese occupation of the island. fighting a defensive war. What had become of the more than 5,000 Japanese While the U.S. forces had made many mistakes in soldiers who had occupied the island for the past the planning and execution of both operations, vital year? On the afternoon of July 28, the Allied vessels lessons in intelligence gathering, troop provisioning surrounding Kiska had seen a cluster of radar blips, and the new tactic of amphibious assault were taken to which they had guessed to be a Japanese evacuation the highest levels of military leadership. fleet. Ships left their blockade positions in pursuit of The invasion of the island of Kiska, although the enemy vessels, which were never found. In the an embarrassment to U.S. military leadership, meantime, the real Japanese fleet arrived at Kiska demonstrated the risks inherent in all military Harbor and all 5,183 men boarded the eight ships in operations — even without an enemy to fight. For the under an hour. The fleet slipped away into the thick front-line soldiers and Marines who had survived the fog of the evening just as silently as it had appeared, gruesome fights on Attu, the grim takeaway they all leaving the returning Allied forces to blockade and had was that the only way to defeat the Japanese in bomb an empty island for nearly three weeks. battle would be to kill them all. FRA

FRAtoday /// June 2020 25 FEATURE PATRIOTS POINT NAVAL & MARITIME MUSEUM The Nation Shuts Down and a Beloved Destination Adjusts By Ann Norvell Gray

The USS YORKTOWN (CV-10) is the centerpiece of the museum. The Essex-class carrier and National Historic Landmark is berthed at the tip of the point. Photo courtesy of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

26 FRAtoday /// June 2020 FEATURE

atriots Point lies where two rivers empty into the Navy and was assigned to the USS YORKTOWN Charleston Harbor, across the water to the east as a fighter pilot. Three years ago, the museum from the historic district of Charleston, South surprised him by presenting a bench dedicated to him PATRIOTS POINT PCarolina. The harbor has been an engine of the state’s on the hangar deck, right in front of the F-6F Hellcat prosperity since its Colonial days. With its five public that is much like the ones he flew in the 1940s. The terminals and its value as a historic and recreational museum’s website reports that “guests are known to area, Charleston Harbor remains a vital part of the gather [at “Bill’s Bench”], sometimes two and three state’s economy. rows deep, to listen to his stories, and they are always NAVAL & MARITIME The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum and amazed at his memories and his humble valor." its 63-acre park occupy the majority of the point. Its As this issue goes to press, the museum, along central features are three venerable ships with WWII with most of the nation, is closed in response to the and Cold War pedigrees berthed in the harbor; a COVID-19 outbreak. There is a link in the sidebar MUSEUM collection of aircraft from WWII to the modern to the brief but encouraging film on their Facebook day, both on board and ashore; and the “Vietnam page about their decision to close. Meanwhile, the Experience,” an exhibit re-creating base conditions staff has responded with renewed energy wherever it during that war. The entire collection is designed for is possible to do so. interaction and education, which makes it particularly intriguing to its younger visitors. The Fighting Lady Most of the dedicated volunteers are The centerpiece of the museum is the USS veterans themselves, with deep and YORKTOWN (CV-10), the Essex-class carrier and personal knowledge of the meaning of National Historic Landmark berthed at the tip of the service and sacrifice. Bill Watkinson is point. The ship was under construction in 1942 when a dedicated volunteer who is in his 90s the USS YORKTOWN (CV-5) was sunk in the Battle now. During World War II, he served in of Midway. Renamed after that fallen vessel and

FRAtoday /// June 2020 27 FEATURE

The USS YORKTOWN deckplates at sunset. Opposite page: The USS LAFFEY (DD-724) and the USS CLAMAGORE (SS-343). Photos courtesy of the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

commissioned in 1943, it served throughout the war became heroes and courage was an everyday occurrence. in the Pacific theatre of operations. The ship’s ferocity Today, she leaves visitors with a greater appreciation for, throughout those campaigns earned it the nickname and understanding of, the sacrifices of those who came “Fighting Lady.” before them.” It was modernized and returned to service in Korea The COVID-19 shutdown has proved to have a silver and Vietnam, and was the recovery ship for the lining for this beloved and heavily visited landmark. capsule and crew of the Apollo 8 mission. In 1975, it While the ship has been closed to the public, five carefully took its place as a museum ship at Patriots Point. The spaced maintenance and custodial crews have been YORKTOWN is also home to the Congressional Medal working full shifts to repaint it, as well as to spruce up of Honor Society and houses the Medal of Honor wayfinding indicators, repair or replace worn-out fixtures Museum, which pays tribute in a tangible way to all like stair treads and handrails, update information along Americans who have earned this badge of courage since the tour routes, and do the kind of nooks-and-crannies its first presentation during the American Civil War. cleaning that would be impossible among the thousands On April 14, 2003, the museum observed of visitors who populate the ship nearly every day of YORKTOWN’s 70th anniversary with a full day of the year. The absence of the public enables the use of celebration on board. That day, Patriots Point’s then materials that require protective gear and keeps running Executive Director Mac Burdette said: “For 70 years, feet and curious fingers out of wet paint. When guidelines the USS YORKTOWN has left an indelible mark on from the state of South Carolina and the judgment of the all those who walk her decks. She turned boys into museum leadership make reopening possible, the ship will men during times of war and peace. Ordinary citizens be at its absolute best from stem to stern.

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The Ship That Would Not Die the Korean conflict. Modernized in the ‘60s, it was The destroyer USS LAFFEY (DD-724) joined the retired in 1975, and came to Patriots Point in 1981. Patriots Point fleet in 1981, and was designated a The ceremony that had been scheduled for April National Historic Landmark five years later. It saw 16 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the its first action in 1944 on D-Day, bombarding gun attack on LAFFEY was a casualty of emplacements and dispersing U-boat formations the COVID-19 closure. Instead, a video posted to support and protect the Normandy invasion on the museum’s Facebook page has replaced the forces. LAFFEY is most often remembered for its anniversary events. The film recounts the story of experience in the Battle of Okinawa, in which the that day with footage of the chaos, mourns the ship survived the most ferocious kamikaze attack loss of the 32 crew members who perished and of WWII in the Pacific, remaining afloat despite appreciates the scope of the damage to “The Ship sustaining catastrophic damage and the wounding or That Would Not Die.” loss of a third of its crew. There is some irony in this, Although not sponsored by the museum, Jessica because the previous November its crew had reacted Cribbs’ 30-minute film “Laffey Men” may interest to a parachute floating in the water and rescued a those who want to hear first-hand accounts of that grievously wounded Japanese pilot shot down in an fateful day 75 years ago. Cribbs’ grandfather was earlier battle. a survivor of the attack, and her film honoring his Repaired, honored and returned to service, service combines riveting footage of that day with LAFFEY was in attendance at the atomic bomb the recollections of five survivors of the battle. The test on Bikini Atoll and went on to see service in film can be found on YouTube.

FRAtoday /// June 2020 29 FEATURE

Right: During the COVID-19 shutdown, workers take advantage of the time by cleaning and making repairs. Below: When the museum reopens, visitors can walk the deckplates of the USS YORKTOWN and see the various aircraft. Photos courtesy of the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

The USS CLAMAGORE (SS-343) made to save appropriate pieces to create a memorial to the The third veteran craft in the museum’s collection is the ship at the museum, remove all environmentally damaging USS CLAMAGORE (SS-343), a Balao-class submarine materials on board, and sink the vessel off the coast to produced near the end of WWII, and the only GUPPY serve as a reef. However, the cost to restore CLAMAGORE III submarine preserved in the United States. Most — quoted by the Patriots Point Development Authority, Shipmates will know that “GUPPY” is an acronym, the state agency responsible for the museum — was not for the tiny aquarium fish, but for the Greater rejected as inflated by the USS CLAMAGORE (SS-343) Underwater Propulsion Program that updated the sub in Restoration and Maintenance Association, or CRAMA, a the late ‘40s. CLAMAGORE was again updated in 1963 nonprofit submariners’ group established to save the ship and served during the Cold War until it was retired in that happens to meet at the FRA Goose Creek branch 1975. CLAMAGORE, too, joined the Patriots Point fleet http://ussclamagore.org. The governor of South Carolina in 1981. then rejected the budget item to sink it, but the state As many Shipmates will know, controversy has legislature overrode his veto by a wide margin, maintaining clouded the future of this aging vessel for the last year. Its that the reef plan was fiscally more responsible than deteriorating condition is in need of a solution. Due to restoration. CRAMA filed a lawsuit last April to have the the high cost of restoring the submarine, the decision was CLAMAGORE dry-docked at a local submarine museum,

30 FRAtoday /// June 2020 FEATURE

Several aircraft are on display inside the YORKTOWN. Photos courtesy of the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

but a judge dismissed the suit in March of this year. However, the opposition persists, and disagreement remains about whether to salvage the severely decayed National Historic Landmark to keep it afloat, or prepare it for a new kind of underwater life far offshore. Patriots Point Naval & Supporting Schools Virtually Maritime Museum Meanwhile, with the museum and park closed to the public, its 40 Patriots Point Road education outreach ­— which ordinarily includes numerous Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 onboard activities developed for every grade level in concert with 843-884-2727 local schools — continues. During the closure, their existing virtual communication efforts have ramped up, with additional Hours (After Reopening): resources and videos added to the website. The Patriots Point 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily education department stays in touch with public school teachers (Last ticket sales: 5:00 p.m.) to continue their “blended learning” programs and to support the Check website for holiday hours. schools’ virtual instruction where they can. Parking: $5 With some combination of luck and care, it won’t be long before Patriots Point’s gates are reopened so student groups can resume Admission to park, museum, ships, flight simulations and overnight stays, families can roam and learn, and aircraft: veterans can come to receive and pay respects, and Charleston Adults: $24 Harbor can come alive again. FRA Veterans/First Responders (ID required): $21 Active Duty/Retired Military (ID required): $19 Internet Resources: Seniors (62+): $19 www.patriotspoint.org/ www.facebook.com/PatriotsPoint.org/ Children (6-11): $16 www.facebook.com/watch/?v=575629139710653 Children younger than 6: Free http://artsandsciences.sc.edu/sciaa/mrd/charlestonharbor

FRAtoday /// June 2020 31 FEATURE A veteran stands near the USS YORKTOWN berthed at Patriots Point. Photo courtesy of the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

32 FRAtoday /// June 2020 FEATURE

A Message to All Vietnam War Veterans By Stoney Bates, Branch 269

n the 1960s, our country issued a call to to become a member of America’s elite military arms, as it had many times since 1775. Its forces deploying to the war in Vietnam. You young men and women had never failed to made friends; shared hardships; had good times, heedI that call. Since Bunker Hill, circumstances fun times, and some bad times; and developed occurred to test our nation’s young in the art of a manifest camaraderie, often still lingering. war-fighting as an obligation of duty to their Indeed, you formed a brotherhood, easily country. From the Revolutionary War through recognized by veterans of those earlier wars and the war in Korea, America’s best stepped forward those younger veterans of our most recent wars, almost in unison. some still being prosecuted. Most all of you put During the war in Vietnam, you were the ones your life on hold while you served your country who answered that call. In spite of others in in time of war, and you completed your tour of our bifurcated nation who fled the confines of duty with honor. the United States, dodged the draft or feigned After your honorable service, you returned any number of mental or physical maladies to home to a nation largely divided. Many of you avoid military service, you answered that call were asked to doff your uniform and wear civvies — you responded. In spite of friends, relatives for your trip home within the United States of and even parents pleading with you to avoid America. There were no parades; no cheering military service — you responded. Regardless crowds greeted your arrival through airports, or of the pardoned deserters and draft dodgers, other ports of entry. Some of you had difficulty and regardless of the well-connected members adjusting to being home again, while others more of our society receiving special treatment and readily did adjust. Some hid their service time exceptional consideration, you either accepted and could only confess it to other veterans, often your draft notice, or you volunteered — you through military service organizations, which at responded. In that vein, you were no different first, sadly failed the Vietnam veteran community. from your fathers and grandfathers who served in You were treated differently than other war World War II and the Korean War. You trained veterans, creating visible and invisible scars just

FRAtoday /// June 2020 33 FEATURE

Vietnam veterans meet each year at Patriots Point for the Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony, which takes place on March 29, the day U.S. troops left Vietnam. These images are from the 2019 event, courtesy of the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

from being a Vietnam War veteran. By contrast, when you came home from Newscaster Tom Brokaw, on assignment to Vietnam, you re-entered an indifferent nation; cover a Normandy D-Day ceremony, became sometimes it became disrespectful, even hostile. so enamored with the stories of those who The simmering rejection of the war-fighting landed in France to begin the liberation of evolved into the rejection of the war-fighter. I Europe that he completed a book and coined was fortunate to have returned from Vietnam the phrase “America’s Greatest Generation.” It surrounded by fellow veterans still on active was published in 1998. His description of that duty. I remained in the cocoon of military life, generation was on target. However, those men whereas most of those I served with in the and a few women who marched to the sound war zone immediately re-entered civilian life of the gun did so with a supportive nation, a different person — in a seemingly different a supportive Congress, indeed, a national country. support for the men and women of the Greatest As the fog of war has lifted, history reveals Generation. It was contagiously affecting an that the youth of America who responded to entire American population. And, upon their the nation’s call during the war in Vietnam, are, return, the supportive “welcome home” was a in every respect, by any measure, cut from the deafening and defining, loud and clear message. same cloth as the World War II and Korean From every fiber of this great nation came a War veterans; indeed, you lay claim as equals to well-deserved “thank you” for what they had Tom Brokaw’s identified Greatest Generation. accomplished. You accomplished this feat while facing

34 FRAtoday /// June 2020 rejection for entering the armed country’s call and served with honor, forces — chastised for fighting a war and on March 29, 1973, the last of our Congress had first supported, our troops left Vietnam. Yet, in one and then rejected — and facing of the war’s most profound tragedies, many other obstacles just for being a many of these men and women came Vietnam War veteran. That Congress, home to be shunned or neglected — supported by many citizens of this to face treatment unbefitting their nation, cut support for that war in courage and a welcome unworthy of Vietnam — and cut the pride of those their example. We must never let this who fought it. happen again” Yet, time has proven Vietnam Three years ago, the president made veterans to be as noble in thought, Vietnam War Veterans Recognition word and deed as all American war Day of March 29, a national holiday. veterans ensue to be, and deserve a Stand tall. You are also America’s legacy equal to that of the Greatest Greatest Generation. Welcome home Generation. Your obstacles were far Vietnam War veterans! FRA greater than any one of them could have ever imagined. Retired Marine Corps Maj. Ralph “Stoney” Bates, is a Vietnam War veteran and a volunteer at Patri- Times have changed. A presidential ots Point. Shipmate Bates is also an FRA member proclamation reads, in part: of the Low Country Branch 269 in Goose Creek, “Our veterans answered our South Carolina.

FRAtoday /// June 2020 35 Visit www.fra.org/foundation for the 2021 scholarship applications and rules.

Who needs money for college?

FRA’s Education Foundation awards approximately $90,000 in scholarship funds each year to recipients based on financial need, academic standing, character and leadership qualities. Our scholarship program is open to anyone who has an affiliation with the USN, USMC or USCG, through their own service or that of a spouse, parent or grandparent.

To learn more about the FRA Education Foundation and our scholarships, visit www.fra.org/foundation where you will find descriptions of each scholarship program, lists of past winners and, starting in September of each year, applications for the current year’s programs. We encourage all eligible scholars to apply for our scholarships and to share information about them with others.

Questions? E-mail us at [email protected] or call 703-683-1400.

125 N. West Street Educating our service members, Alexandria, VA 22314 veterans and their families. EDUCATION FOUNDATION 800-FRA-1924 • 703-683-1400 [email protected] EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Importance of Planning Ahead

indsight is great! If we knew then what times — we are all in this together. we know now, we would do some things I wrote about the importance of planning differently, which may significantly change ahead in a past column following the updating of importantH outcomes in our lives. Patty’s and my wills and associated documents. The current COVID-19 crisis brings this to mind I also referenced the importance of including and could serve as a motivator to ensure that our specific guidance to estate executors to disperse affairs are in order and that our wishes are clearly assets as instructed — to perhaps include legacy Joe Barnes stated in our wills and associated documents. Who contributions to religious, charitable or educational could have imagined a terrible pandemic that organizations important to you. Once our wills were would so significantly impact the health of older updated, it was reassuring to have them done and Shipmates and others with certain underlying health know that our wishes will be memorialized when we conditions? Unfortunately, some of these folks depart this world. have unexpectedly become very sick and ended up Planning ahead is also important to students hospitalized alone during their final days. planning to go to college. And figuring out how to Virginia House of Delegates Rep. Dan Helmer pay tuition, buy books and cover other fees is a key The recently wrote to us about the challenges his priority. Those who are FRA Shipmates or related to scholarship constituents are facing and how we’ll move forward current or former members of the FRA qualify for recipients from here. He referenced the dangers and fears a majority of the foundation’s annual scholarships. he experienced when going “outside the gate” of It’s not too soon to be looking ahead to the 2021- will be a forward operating base during his Army service 2022 academic year and becoming familiar with listed in the in Iraq and Afghanistan. He compared this to the scholarship application requirements. Applications September uneasiness associated with going outside today for for next year’s cycle will be posted on the FRA’s issue of food and essential products and services. website at fra.org/foundation. FRAtoday. Many of us remember the challenges we faced during our time in service and are concerned A Salute to the Foundation Team about the situation aboard the USS THEODORE The 2020-2021 Education Foundation scholarship ROOSEVELT, more than 1,100 crew members cycle has nearly completed and I’d like to recognize have tested positive for the virus. We can imagine the following for their efforts and commitment to the uneasiness of sailors who must continue to serve the foundation and its mission: in close quarters on the ROOSEVELT and other BOD PNP Larry Boudreaux, secretary; PFO vessels. With that said, we know they will figure it Steve Cox, treasurer; PNP Gary Blackburn; out and do what is necessary. Shipmate Richard Ruiz; Alicia Landis, scholarship The point I am trying to make is that things coordinator; our advisors, NED Chris Slawinski, can change quickly, and it is good to plan ahead PNED Tom Snee, Honorary Shipmate Jim and consider life’s “what ifs.” To do this, we can Webb and PRPWC Joe Nash; and our volunteer perhaps put aside money in a rainy day fund (our application members Harry Kantrovich, Lauren son-in-law is working for 25 percent of his pay), Armstrong and Marilyn Smith. keep prescriptions filled and renewals current, and It is also important to recognize and express have some household items on hand (especially appreciation to our corporate donors, the 2019 paper goods and Lysol products) along with items FRA National Convention Committee, the FRA in the pantry and freezer if it is necessary to rely on branches, individual Shipmates and others for their grocery delivery services, which in our area take at support of scholarships awarded this year. FRA least a week for processing. As we’ve heard many NEDE Joe Barnes is president of the FRA Education Foundation.

FRAtoday /// June 2020 37 Calling All Hands Loyalty-Protection-Service

We need your help to strengthen your organization. Are you proud of your service? Are you proud of your affiliation with FRA? Step up and become an FRA Ambassador and earn recruiting awards!

Membership Recruiting Awards – Any member of the FRA or Auxiliary who sponsors or recruits: • 1 active duty enlisted member of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard will receive a Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard pin respectively. • 1 new active duty shipmate from each branch of services will qualify for The National President’s Membership Club. • 3 new or reinstated shipmates will receive the Recruiting and Retention 2020-2021 pin award. • 5 new or reinstated shipmates in one membership year will receive the Recruit Five Moving Forward pin and a one-year extension of his/her existing membership (valued at $40). If the sponsor is a Life Member, a $40 membership gift certificate can be given to any current or new shipmate the recipient desires. • 10 new or reinstated shipmates shall be presented with a Gold Lapel Button emblem of the Association, a Gold Membership Card, and a Letter of Commendation signed by the National President. • 32 new or reinstated members during the membership year will receive Life Membership or $100 cash. For each subsequent 32 members recruited, a Shipmate will receive an addition $100. • 50 new or reinstated members will receive a Silver Anchor Squadron Award Pin, a Silver Anchor Squadron Certificate and a Letter of Commendation signed by the National President. Awards are issued quarterly and will be shipped to your affiliated branch, directly to the Shipmate or a Member-At-Large.

Join FRA: Membership Application SPONSORED BY: Membership is open to all current or former enlisted members of the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Name: ______Guard. I certify that I fulfill the eligibility requirements and want to join the FRA. Annual dues include a subscription to FRAtoday, NewsBytes and OnWatch. Member No.: ______Branch No.: ______

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Address: ______Street Lot/Space City State Zip Code 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, VA Date of Birth: ______SS No. (Optional): ______Phone: ( ) ______22314-2754 703-683-1400 Service: ______Status: ______Membership Pref.: Branch No.______Nearest to home Member-at-large 800-FRA-1924 www.fra.org Previous FRA member: No Yes If yes, previous Member No.: ______

Email Address: ______Spouse’s Name: ______

SPECIAL Applicant’s Signature: ______Date: ______OFFER FOR FIRST TIME DUES OPTIONS: PAYMENT OPTIONS: MEMBERS! 1 Year $40.00 Master Card Visa Discover American Express Check/Money Order Enclosed 2 Years for 2 Years $64.00 FIRST TIME MEMBERS Amount: ______Credit Card No.: ______$64.00 2 Years $75.00 (for renewing or reinstating) 5 Years $180.00 Exp. Date: ______Signature: ______June 2020 Calling All Hands MEMBERSHIP MATTERS Loyalty-Protection-Service

We need your help to strengthen your organization. Insights from Our Shipmate Survey Are you proud of your service? Are you proud of your affiliation with FRA? Step up and become an FRA Ambassador and earn recruiting awards! he recent membership survey was designed multiple choice or ranking. We received a large number to identify your preferences and priorities. of topics, but first and most importantly, we are grateful Membership Recruiting Awards – Everyone was asked how they learned about to those Shipmates who took the time to provide their Any member of the FRA or Auxiliary who sponsors or recruits: the survey; 75 percent said NewsBytes, the FRA’s thoughts. • 1 active duty enlisted member of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast T weekly email. Just 7 percent said they completed the Many answers were about specific areas related Guard will receive a Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard pin respectively. survey after reading about it in FRAtoday. The first to our advocacy work. Some of you wanted more • 1 new active duty shipmate from each branch of services will qualify for The takeaway is to have as many Shipmates as possible emphasis on a particular issue from your time in National President’s Membership Club. signed up to receive NewsBytes. If you would like to be service, or felt that Congress hadn’t done enough in • 3 new or reinstated shipmates will receive the Recruiting and Retention included, contact Member Services to start receiving response to a lingering health challenge. Some of you 2020-2021 pin award. Christina Hitchcock your NewsBytes, and you can learn about future may not be familiar with Public Law 116-23, which is • 5 new or reinstated shipmates in one membership year will receive the initiatives and other surveys. the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019. Recruit Five Moving Forward pin and a one-year extension of his/her existing membership (valued at $40). If the sponsor is a Life Member, a $40 membership The following are a few other interesting This was a bill the FRA supported that became law in gift certificate can be given to any current or new shipmate the recipient desires. observations based on the responses to three of our June 2019. • 10 new or reinstated shipmates shall be presented with a Gold Lapel survey questions. The act provides an amendment to Title 38 that Button emblem of the Association, a Gold Membership Card, and a Letter of What do you think is the most important activity extends eligibility for presumptive exposure to Agent Commendation signed by the National President. of the FRA? The overall priorities were ranked in the Orange to certain veterans who served in the vicinity • 32 new or reinstated members during the membership year will receive Life following order: of Vietnam. Previously, if you had served offshore but Membership or $100 cash. For each subsequent 32 members recruited, a 1. Advocacy for current and former the sea service not on the ground, you were ineligible for treatment Shipmate will receive an addition $100. enlisted (76 percent). and compensation for related disabilities. Now, those • 50 new or reinstated members will receive a Silver Anchor Squadron Award 2. Veteran Services claims and appeals (20 percent). sea service members who served offshore are entitled to Pin, a Silver Anchor Squadron Certificate and a Letter of Commendation signed 3. Supporting Branch activities (3.3 percent). the same presumption of service-connected exposure as by the National President. 4. Providing group insurance benefits (2.5 percent). those who served on the ground. Awards are issued quarterly and will be shipped to your affiliated branch, directly to the 5. Supporting education focused on careers in the sea The survey results suggest many of our Shipmates are Shipmate or a Member-At-Large. services (2.3 percent). not familiar with the FRA’s support of the legislation, 6. Offering scholarships through the education or the fact that it passed into law. We take heed of foundation (0.2 percent). the fact that there is obviously room for improvement Join FRA: Membership Application SPONSORED BY: The total responses do not equal 100 percent because in sharing updates of this sort, which can have a Membership is open to all current or former enlisted members of the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Name: ______not everyone ranked every option. profound impact on Shipmates’ lives. The FRA wants Guard. I certify that I fulfill the eligibility requirements and want to join the FRA. Annual dues include What is clear is that 96 percent chose one of two you to know the story of our advocacy efforts and our a subscription to FRAtoday, NewsBytes and OnWatch. Member No.: ______Branch No.: ______priorities, while the remaining priorities did not even successes on Capitol Hill because they touch the lives Name: ______Rate/Rank: ______total 9 percent. The weighted average results tell a of so many former enlisted sea service members. Address: ______similar story. Thanks to everyone who completed the survey. I Street Lot/Space City State Zip Code 125 N. West Street, How well do you think we are fulfilling our role would like to remind all Shipmates that FRA HQ is Alexandria, VA Date of Birth: ______SS No. (Optional): ______Phone: ( ) ______as an advocate? Twenty-one percent responded we an administrative center — we provide tools and data, 22314-2754 are doing an “excellent” job, 39 percent responded but it is ultimately up to Shipmates, whether branch- 703-683-1400 Service: ______Status: ______Membership Pref.: Branch No.______Nearest to home Member-at-large 800-FRA-1924 “great” job, 25 percent responded “good”, 5.6 percent affiliated or at large, to create an environment that www.fra.org Previous FRA member: No Yes If yes, previous Member No.: ______responded “well” and 2.4 percent said “poor.” And 6.3 others wish to join as FRA members. Please consider

Email Address: ______Spouse’s Name: ______percent did not have an opinion. Slight anomalies sharing your personal experiences — they are the best caused the results not to add up to 100 percent due to recruiting tools we have. SPECIAL Applicant’s Signature: ______Date: ______rounding. Thanks for responding to the survey; we look OFFER FRA FOR FIRST TIME DUES OPTIONS: PAYMENT OPTIONS: It is heartening to know 85 percent feel we are doing forward to expanding our future efforts. MEMBERS! a good job, there is always room for improvement. Yours in Loyalty, Protection and Service, 1 Year $40.00 Master Card Visa Discover American Express Check/Money Order Enclosed 2 Years for 2 Years $64.00 FIRST TIME MEMBERS Is there any other topic you would like us to focus Christina Hitchcock Amount: ______Credit Card No.: ______on? This was an open-ended question, rather than Christina is the FRA’s director of membership. She can be reached $64.00 2 Years $75.00 (for renewing or reinstating) at [email protected] or 703-683-1400, ext. 123. 5 Years $180.00 Exp. Date: ______Signature: ______FRAtoday /// June 2020 39 SHIPMATE NEWS 2 1

1. BRANCH 146, JOHNSVILLE, PA. Branch President Otto Blavier (L) presents a Life Member Pin to Shipmate Tom Brydebell (R) during the branch meeting in February.

2. BRANCH 146, JOHNSVILLE, PA. Branch members gathered to honor Shipmate Dave Carver (R) for his 60 years of continuous membership.

3. BRANCH 4, WASHINGTON, D.C. USMC veteran and Shipmate Omar “Cholo” Blando (center) conducts free martial arts classes three times a week for disadvantaged 5 youth and members of the Prince George’s 4 County Police Department, at the branch home in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Due to COVID-19, martial arts classes have been temporarily suspended.

4. LA FRA MEMPHIS, TENN. (L to R) The LA FRA National Chaplain Lyn Transfiguracion, NVP Jackie Scarbro and Junior Past National President Christina Murray at the 2019 National Convention in Memphis, Tennessee, prior to Lyn’s installation.

5. RPWC STEVE MATTHEWS The 115th Regional Support Group of the 7 California Army National Guard Armory in Roseville, Calif. is tasked with providing support to state food banks. Three of the four 6 members of the small, regional support to the Group: (L to R) FRA RPWC Steve Matthews, Pfc. Sarah Stanley (prior USMC) and Col. William Tubbs (prior Coast Guard).

6. BRANCH 137, MINDEN, NEV. Americanism Essay Contest attendees: (L to R) Branch President David Dagang, Sutter Rollings from Pah Wa Lu Middle School, Mackenzie Tackett from Carson High School, Anastasia Chevalier from Virginia City High School, Kiarra DePaz from Douglas High School, Lila Kaufmann from Carson Valley 9 Middle School, Haylie Mikkelsen from Yerington High School, Ryan Olson from 10 Douglas High School and John Trammell.

7. BRANCH 13, ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. On April 6, the Atlantic City Branch made a $1,000 donation to the AtlantiCare Foundation in support of purchasing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE’s) for local hospitals during the COVID-19 outbreak. (L to R) Branch President Albert Davenport, Branch Secretary Kim Yoder, AtlantiCare Foundation Executive Director Samantha Kiley and Branch Treasurer Frank Williams.

40 FRAtoday /// June 2020 SHIPMATE NEWS 3

8. BRANCH 34, TALLAHASSEE, FLA. Branch Secretary Alexander Topicz presents a gift card and a first place Americanism Essay Contest certificate to ninth grader Gracie Davis.

9. BRANCH 34, TALLAHASSEE, FLA. Branch President Ernest Reed Sr. presents a gift card and a first place Americanism Essay Contest certificate to eighth grader Elena Moore.

10. BRANCH 269, GOOSE CREEK, S.C. Volunteer driver and FRA Shipmate Robert “Beetle” Bailey is serving in the Curbside Delivery Program in Charleston, South Carolina. The program delivers food and other items to homeless veterans in Charleston. Bailey is a long- time Volunteer Transportation Network driver. In one week, the VTN program had served 20 veterans and had seven new routes set up for delivery the following week.

11. BRANCH 31 , PEABODY, MASS. Branch President Bob Dunne oversaw 8 the branch’s information table that was set up at the Naval Reserve Unit in Devens, Massachusetts. The new FRA table drape was an eye-catcher.

12. BRANCH 238, PLOVER, WISC. Will Lehner from Plover Wisconsin, joined the staff of the Supreme Commander on Jan. 5 at the age of 98. Plover was best known for being one of the last two survivors of the USS WARD (DD-139), which was the ship that fired the first American shot of WWII one hour before the attack on Pearl Harbor. Lehner was a reservist in Minnesota at the age of 17 when he was called up for active duty. He authored the book “Legacy of a Pearl Harbor Survivor: Will Lehner 12 Remembers” with the help of Patty Dreier in 2019. 11

PHOTOS NEEDED! Please submit your photos for Shipmate News by email as a high-quality attachment in jpeg format to [email protected]. Please include a brief description and include the names of those pictured.

FRAtoday /// June 2020 41 TAPS In Memoriam Name Rating Branch Easterling, Carson R. GYSGT, USMC 117 Ackerman, Frank W. AC1, USN MAL Erwin, William J. AK1, USN 126 Arcilla, Wilfredo V. PO1, USN 166 Eystad, Alfred E. TDC, USN MAL Asbury, Homer 60 Ferguson, John K. CDR, USN 08 Bailey, William A. YNCS, USN MAL Ferguson, John R. AMHC, USN MAL Benton, William H. GYSGT, USMC MAL Finn, Robert P. BMCM(SW) 17 Berry, John M. CTRC/E-7, USN MAL Gavin, Marty ENC(SW), USN 269 Bestenheider, Francis MR2, USN MAL Geisler, Gerald AOC, USN 156 Bliss, Gary G. PNCM, USN MAL Goggans, Kenneth J. PO1, USN MAL Brockhausen, Frederick CAPT, USN MAL Hammes, James C. YN1, USN 136 Burt, Victor D. HMC, USN 08 Hancock, David L. YN1, USN 161 Burgess William K. YN1, USN 230 Hathway, Leslie RDSN, USN MAL Caprio, Ralph E. OSC, USN MAL Heather, Edward CTMCM, USN MAL Carter, Glenn M. HTC, USN MAL Herring, Malcolm J. ABF2, USN 101 Carver, Charlie W. AFCM, USN 339 Howe, Charles E. MS1, USN 60 Chambers, Herman A. ETCM, USN MAL Jackson, John SD3, USN 217 Charap, Larry PO1, USN 13 Jahelka, George H. FM, USNR 212 Clifton, Duane R. STGC, USN 163 Johnson, David R. EN2, USN 29 Combs, Donald ARM2, USN 161 Johnson, Paul F. AGCS, USN 210 Cragg, Robert E. USN, 269 Jones, Earl L. EM1, USN 276 Crissman, Kenneth SKC, USN MAL Kearon, William G. FTCM, USN MAL Cullinan, Joseph RM1, USN 109 Kehoe, John F. LT, USN 57 Datz, Taras J. AVCM, USN 97 Kinnick, Eland B. PO1, USN 38 Degnan, Bruce R. MAL Lowell, John R. ADCS, USCG 174 Derick, Joseph M. PR1, USN 106 Lucas, Edward LCDR, USN 60 Devoe, James A. ETCM/SS, USN MAL Lucht, Arnold E. SHC, USN MAL Doherty, Leo J. ETC, USN 72 Lundin, David I. GMM1, USN 137 Dorman, Jack W. SHCM, USN 269 Lyles, Harry R. DT1, USN 161 Dufford, Robert H. CWO4, USN 70 Magness, Tommy BMC, USN MAL Dull, Frederick C. MNCM, USN 08 Main, Paul O. AOC, USN 42

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42 FRAtoday /// June 2020

“ AnyA page-turner,”

raves the Daily News,

“ compelling fun.” In Memoriam McElfresh, Dale E. CWO4, USCG 268 McKague, F. A. ETC, USN 41 McNamara, Ellen SKSN, USN 302 Molnar, Joseph AO1, USN MAL Mountford, Raymond N. USN MAL Nicholson, Gilbert F. ENC, USN 105

Niland, John M. ETC, USN 269 Pascetti, Valentino GYSGT, USMC MAL Phillips, Irving A. HMC, USN MAL Plank, Fay D. EM1, USN 90 Price, George T. HM1, USN MAL Ramento, Domingo C. USN 46 Second Edition Rannou Rene F. ATC, USN MAL Ridings, John CPO, USN 46 This Veteran’s hot history Romero, Daniel W. SHC, USN MAL mystery reveals the joint Ross, William W. BMC, USN MAL CIA/FBI operation to snare Ross, Wayne CPO, USN MAL or kill dictator and drug Salaiz, Jesse AS1, USN 289 kingpin General Manuel Sellers, Leon L. BTCM/E-9, USN 136 Noriega——and the Mafia Serabian, Billye A. YN3, USN 20 assassination of Oscar win- Serrano, Henry PC2, USN 159 ning Princess Grace Kelly. Shannon, Gene H. AMHC, USN MAL Sprint to exotic locales in Shore, Byron D. CTTCS, USN MAL Monaco, Miami, beaches of Smith, George C. OS1, USNR MAL the Baja, the Everglades, Stanfill, James F. BMC, USN 159 and Panama . . . while you Stauder, Charles H. AEC, USN MAL wonder whether a mob capo Sterling, Mark MAC, USN 268 is covering your back or Tripp, Robert L. POCS, USN MAL looking to whack you. It’s Varias, Exequiel SD1, USN 84 Wahler, Darryl E. HMCS, USN 242 perfect reading for hearth, Walsh, Michael J. YN1, USN MAL ship, beach or comfort zone! Wentworth, Gary G. ENCM, USN 294 Available from White, Daniel E. OSCS, USN 156 Whittaker, Charles J. CTRC, USN 24 Wichlenski, William P. CTRCS, USN MAL in print, LARGE print, Widener, Gary L. UTC, USN MAL audio and e-book Yutrzenka, Ted J. YN1, USN 273 Zaklan, Dennis J. CTTCM, USN 24 “ Devilish adventure

Names in red indicate 50-year continuous members. Any names in bold with room for romance.” indicate past national officers. To report a Shipmate death, email: mserfra@ fra.org or telephone at 703-683-1400, ext. 1. Out on the Town News

FRAtoday /// June 2020 43 SOMETHING WORTH PROTECTING . . .

GET THE FACTS — NOW! You helped secure our nation’s future. FACT #1 Accidents do happen! They are Let us do the same for your family. the 3rd leading cause of death in the United States.1 The FRA-endorsed Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance Plan can help you FACT #2 prepare for the unexpected! Accidental Death & A car accident on the way to work... A fall off a ladder at home… Dismemberment insurance An accident can happen to you at any time—leaving your family provides an easy way to add to emotionally and fi nancially devastated if you don’t have enough your family’s fi nancial security! fi nancial protection in place. With the FRA-endorsed Group AD&D Plan, you can easily secure additional fi nancial protection to help safeguard your family’s future if an accident happens to you. Advantages include: • KNOW YOUR OPTIONS! Choice of benefi t amounts up to $500,000. • Learn more today: Guaranteed acceptance for you and your family. Call toll-free: 1-800-424-1120 • Includes EXTRA benefi ts for seatbelt usage, military air travel, Visit www.frainsure.com rehab and more! • Competitive group-negotiated rates.

1National Safety Council, InjuryFacts.NSC.org, “All Leading Causes of Death,” Program Administered by https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/all-injuries/deaths-by-demographics/all-leading-causes-of-death/. Viewed 3/24/20. Mercer Health & Benefi ts Administration LLC Underwritten by New York Life Insurance Company AR Insurance License #100102691 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010 under Group Policy No. G-29319-0 CA Insurance License #0G39709 on Policy Form GMR-FACE/G-29319-0 In CA d/b/a Mercer Health & Coverage may not be available in all states. Benefi ts Insurance Services LLC Information includes plan features, costs, eligibility, renewability, limitations and exclusions. 90469 (6/20), 90471 (11/20) Copyright 2020 Mercer LLC. All rights reserved.

90469 90471 FRA AD&D Ad.indd 1 4/22/20 3:44 PM SOMETHING WORTH LOOKING FOR/REUNIONS PROTECTING . . .

Be sure to check with the reunion organizers to verify any changes in reunion schedules of events.

REUNIONS USS ARCTIC (AOE-8) TIN CAN SAILORS USS LEARY (DD-879) 9/18/2020 - 9/20/2020 9/27/2020 - 10/1/2020 9/9/2020 - 9/12/2020 Virginia Beach, Va. San Antonio, Texas Harrisburg, Pa. Contact: Val Cromer Contact: Monica Ventura Contact: Alfred Redden Telephone: 563-203-7013 Telephone: 508-677-0515 GET THE FACTS — NOW! Telephone: 308-530-1284 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] You helped secure our nation’s future. USS YELLOWSTONE (AD-27) USS BEALE (DD/DDE-471) FACT #1 USS SAM HOUSTON 9/21/2020 - 9/23/2020 9/27/2020 - 9/30/2020 Accidents do happen! They are Let us do the same for your family. (SSBN/SSN-609) Branson, Mo. , La. the 3rd leading cause of death 9/10/2020 -9/12/2020 Contact: Karen A. Bowen Contact: Diane Sorola in the United States.1 The FRA-endorsed Accidental Death & Omaha, Neb. Telephone: 603-948-2821 Telephone: 337-298-3434 Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance Plan can help you Contact: Howard Dobson Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] prepare for the unexpected! Telephone: 302-764-1197 www.westgateresorts.com/hotels/ FACT #2 Email: [email protected] missouri/branson/westgate-branson- USS WILTSIE (DD-716) Accidental Death & A car accident on the way to work... A fall off a ladder at home… woods-resort/ 9/27/2020 - 9/30/2020 Dismemberment insurance An accident can happen to you at any time—leaving your family USS SPRINGFIELD San Antonio, Texas provides an easy way to add to emotionally and fi nancially devastated if you don’t have enough BLUEJACKETS OM-IM ASSOCIATION Contact: Ted Lurilla your family’s fi nancial security! fi nancial protection in place. (CL-66/CLG-7/SSN-761) 9/23/2020 - 9/27/2020 Telephone: 360-736-3853 9/10/2020 - 9/13/2020 Memphis, Tenn. Email: [email protected] With the FRA-endorsed Group AD&D Plan, you can easily secure New Orleans, La. Contact: John Bryan additional fi nancial protection to help safeguard your family’s future if Contact: Richard Wilson Telephone: 706-339-5905 A list of reunions is at: www.fra.org/Reunions. an accident happens to you. Advantages include: Telephone: 425-736-6899 Email: [email protected] LookingFor/Reunions must be submitted online, via email to [email protected], or in • Choice of benefi t amounts up to $500,000. Email: [email protected] KNOW YOUR OPTIONS! USS ENTERPRISE writing to FRA LookingFor/Reunions at • Learn more today: Guaranteed acceptance for you and your family. USS PRAIRIE (AD-15) / (CVAN/CVN-65) 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314. Call toll-free: 1-800-424-1120 • Includes EXTRA benefi ts for seatbelt usage, military air travel, USS PUGET SOUND (AD-38) ASSOCIATION Include your member ID and a daytime telephone number. For help, contact FRA Visit www.frainsure.com rehab and more! 9/17/2020 - 9/21/2020 9/23/2020 - 9/27/2020 Member Services at 800-FRA-1924. • Competitive group-negotiated rates. Washington, D.C. Las Vegas, Nev. Contact: Bradley E. Allen Contact: Bruce Mooberry 1National Safety Council, InjuryFacts.NSC.org, “All Leading Causes of Death,” Program Administered by Telephone: 518-695-4821 Telephone: 316-540-3703 https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/all-injuries/deaths-by-demographics/all-leading-causes-of-death/. Viewed 3/24/20. Mercer Health & Benefi ts Administration LLC Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Underwritten by New York Life Insurance Company AR Insurance License #100102691 www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/virginia/ www.samstownlv.com 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010 under Group Policy No. G-29319-0 CA Insurance License #0G39709 hilton-washington-dulles-airport- on Policy Form GMR-FACE/G-29319-0 In CA d/b/a Mercer Health & IADAHHF/index.html Coverage may not be available in all states. Benefi ts Insurance Services LLC FRAtoday /// June 2020 45 Information includes plan features, costs, eligibility, renewability, limitations and exclusions. 90469 (6/20), 90471 (11/20) Copyright 2020 Mercer LLC. All rights reserved.

90469 90471 FRA AD&D Ad.indd 1 4/22/20 3:44 PM LA FRA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

ABOUT OUR ORGANIZATION: Founded in 1930, the LA FRA is a federally chartered organization. LA FRA Units are located throughout the United States and the . Eligible persons may also become Members-at-Large ( MAL ) who do not have access to, nor desire to join a Unit. The LA FRA has a proud standing tradition and heritage that supports this great nation and recognizes the sacrifices, past and present, of those who kept us strong and free.

WHAT WE DO: The LA FRA plays an active role in our communities. Local units sponsor youth programs, welfare projects, social and patriotic activities to benefit the communities at large, veteran programs and the active duty commu- nity. The organization provides annual scholarships to outstanding students each year.

WHO CAN JOIN? All applicants must be at least sixteen (16) years of age. Membership in the Ladies Auxiliary of the Fleet Reserve Association is limited to spouses, parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers, children, stepchildren and grandchildren not less than 16 years of age of members of the Fleet Reserve Asso- ciation and widows, widowers, parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers, children, stepchildren and grandchildren not less than 16 years of age of persons who were members at the time of death or eligible to be members of the Fleet Reserve Association at the time of death.

HOW CAN I JOIN? Members fall into two categories. Members who belong to an LA FRA Unit or Members who do not but join as “Members-at-Large.”

Join the Ladies Auxiliary of the FRA (DBA Auxiliary of the FRA)

Name in Full: ______(First) (Middle) (Last)

Address: ______(Street) (City) (State) (Zip + 4)

Telephone: ______Date of Birth: ______

Email: ______

The following service member information validates this application:

______(Serviceman’s Full Name) (Rate/Rank) (USN/ USMC/ USCG) c Certify that the information is true and accurate and that my sponsor is a member of FRA Branch ______or is MAL c Certify that the information is true and accurate and that my sponsor was eligible for membership at the time of death.

Unit Preference ______Applicant’s Signature ______Date ______

Recruiter ______Member # ______Unit/Branch #______

Verified by ______Title ______Unit\Branch ______Date______Wife Mother Annual Memberhsip Dues: Sister Father I am the: $20.00 for 1 Year Daughter Widow $40.00 for 2 Year Stepdaughter Widower $60.00 for 3 Years Husband Granddaughter $80.00 for 4 Years Brother Grandson $100.00 for 5 Years Son Grandmother Stepson Grandfather JuneJanuary 2020 2020 AUXILIARY OF THE FRA

Honor and Support Through it All

he LA FRA is an organization that inspires the spouses, siblings, parents, grandparents, children and Tgrandchildren of FRA members to honor and support our veterans. It is an organization that builds family and social values, that serve our veterans and local communities. We come from Bea Parco all walks of life and have a diversity of experience, National President skills and personal attributes — for example, we have many male members in our organization. Also, as an organization we support and aid A Branch & Unit 163 meeting in Phoenix, Arizona. (L to R): Lupe Mann, the endeavors of the Fleet Reserve Association. PRPSW Claudia Goldner, Marti Stanton, Virginia Ginter, FRA NP Donna Visit our website (www.LA-FRA.org) for more Jansky, Joanie Katzenberger, Carole Curtis, Ron Curtis, LA FRA NP Bea Parco, Ted Murphey and National Shipmate of the Year for Veterans information about our membership requirements Services Stella Reyes. and our scholarship programs. Beginning in March, we all lived with the uncertainty of the future of the country, and the fact that the world had changed. Our lifestyles had to be modified to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. This lifestyle was unprecedented, especially if you followed the social distancing guidelines. Within our own organization, we had to cancel major events, conferences, meetings and services. We are working on using alternatives to meet via telephone and video conferencing. A Unit 70 meeting in Poway, California. (Back row, L to R): PRPSW Elain Smith, NP Bea Parco, RPSW Aaron Jensen, Rachelle Jensen, Dee We do have members and Shipmates who need Scott, Vickie Jason, Vickie Curry. (Front row, L to R): Paul Saffell, Tanya to be on the front lines with their jobs, providing Dalrymple and Sandy Davis. services in this country and the Philippines. Being in a global lockdown does not stop our Hyrne Drive, Goose Creek, SC 29445. organization from being of service. There are members The love of our country and the gratitude for our making protective face masks for veteran care veterans is strong and alive, and will not be subject to centers and there are others giving home support via a lockdown. We have the will to continue our support telephone while safely reaching outside their homes and we will find alternative ways to show that we care. to help others. We are working on four LA FRA Hopefully in future months, people can be together scholarship Awards as well as supporting the national again, traveling will be safe and we can attend regional president’s project, Operation Homefront. The project conventions and our national convention that is being supports outgoing military personnel and their held in Portland, Oregon, Sept. 28. Stay healthy, be families as they transition from military to civilian life. safe and use good judgment when social distancing Contributions to Operation Homefront can be done restrictions are lifted. FRA via a check made payable to the LA FRA. Be sure to In Loyalty, Protection and Service, write on the check memo line: “National President’s Bea Parco Project.” Mail your check to: NFS Pat Suckow, 106 Bea is the LA FRA national president.

FRAtoday /// June 2020 47 FINANCE MATTERS

Five Ways to Help Protect Your Family from Fraud

rom listening to music to ordering groceries, 3. Limit What You Share on Social Media almost all aspects of our daily lives are Thieves scour social media profiles for clues to security connected to the internet in some way. questions, passwords, and other information that NearlyF one third of Americans say they’re “almost could help them impersonate potential victims online. constantly” online, with 81 percent using the First, set your profiles to private — and encourage Internet at least once a day.¹ your family members to do the same. Also, restrict But our always-connected nature can come your social media contacts to people you know with risks: The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint personally. Finally, watch what information you Center² averages more than 900 complaints a day; disclose. Revealing too much personal information Carl M. Trevisan, CFP® the center recorded $2.71 billion in victim losses in in your social profiles can put you at greater risk 2018.³ Here are some ways you can help protect of identity theft, especially if your bank or other your family online. companies use that information to verify your identity. 1. Learn to Spot Imposter Scams 4. Protect Your Home Network Have you ever received a call, text or email Create a strong password for your wireless network purporting to be from your credit card provider in your home. Consider using a unique phrase Stephen M. Bearce regarding suspicious activity detected on your with a mix of letters and numbers. Avoid using any account? It could be a scammer trying to convince part of your email address or information shared you to share sensitive information that would on social media, like the name of your pet, favorite enable them to access your accounts. movie or anything else someone could easily Increasingly, these criminals may be able to spoof guess. When you are configuring your router, the caller ID or mimic an email address so it appears Department of Homeland Security recommends they are legitimate. When in doubt, do not respond. choosing the Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) Instead, alert your provider about the suspicious Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) setting, communication. Learn more about how to spot which is the strongest encryption option.⁵ common scams at www.wellsfargo.com/scams. 5. Stay Up-to-Date 2. Manage and Monitor Your Credit Cybercriminals change their tactics frequently, so If your data has been compromised through a families should stay on top of the latest threats. Be sure security breach, consider placing a fraud alert on to work with Wells Fargo Advisors and other financial your credit file with the three major credit bureaus. providers to understand ways to protect yourself as you Visit www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0014- conduct financial business online. FRA

identity-theft, for more information on identity 1. https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2019/07/25/ theft prevention tips and resources you can share americans-going-online-almost-constantly/ with your family. 2. https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx 3. https://pdf.ic3.gov/2018_IC3Report.pdf Make a habit of reviewing credit reports for 4. https://www.javelinstrategy.com/coverage-area/2018-child-identity- you and your child at least once a year. Look for fraud-study unauthorized accounts that may have been opened 5. https://www.ready.gov/cybersecurity in your names. This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, managing director-investments and Stephen M. Bearce, first vice More than 1 million children were victims of president- investments in Alexandria, Virginia at 800-247-8602. identity fraud in 2017, according to one study from Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE banking industry research firm Javelin Strategy & Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Research.⁴ Company. © 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

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