Give a Little, Give a Lot 18

Home , Joe Campa, Jonathan Bird, USS Chickasaw (1864), USS Howard (DD-179), USS Surfbird, USS Walton

WALTER REED FIASCO 2 1 APRIL 2 0 0 7

Give a little, Give a lot 18

National President’s Travel Report: Japan 10 Hail to the Chiefs Happy Birthday CPOs 14 MESOTHELIOM A

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The spirit of shipmates helping National Officers/Board Of Directors each other resonates throughout Nat’l President Jerry L. Sweeney, Navy Dept. Branch 181 this issue of FRA Today. Of course, Nat’l Vice President Lawrence J. Boudreaux, Hangtown Branch 275 our feature story on volunteerism Nat’l Executive Sec. Joseph L. Barnes, Navy Dept. Branch 181 APRIL 2007

y focuses on how programs such as finance Officer Paul Rigby Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service Junior PNP Edgar M. Zerr, Poway Valley Branch 70 (VAVS) are designed to make an FRA Tod a impact – but it takes the individual Regional Presidents such as Shipmate Tom Elliot Jr. of New England Paul F. Loveless, Jr., Pine Tree Branch 156 Pinetree Branch 156 in Brunswick, Northeast Francis D. Tyson, Anthracite Branch 288 Maine to make the program work. east Coast Delbert L. Herrmann, Wilmington Branch 299 Tony Cassata, The Delbert D. Black Branch 117 NP Sweeney gives a personal ac- southeast North Central Leon J. Zalewski, Milwaukee Branch 14 count (page 10) of how the branch Eileen Murphy south Central Leo V. Vance, Space City Branch 159 in Yokosuka, Japan offered hospi- Director of Marketing and Southwest Charles F. Smedley, Poway Valley Branch 70 tality during his visit and opportu- Communications West Coast Charles R. McIntyre, San Jose Branch 140 nities for him to provide legislative Northwest John Ippert, Pearl Harbor-Honolulu Branch 46 briefs to CPOs, tour the USS Kitty Hawk and meet many people during Nat’l. Parliamentarian PNP J.C. Jim Eblen, San Diego Branch 9 his seven day stay. OnWatch (page 14) is two pages this issue to cel- Nat’l Chaplain Vincent W. Patton, III, Navy Dept. Branch 181 ebrate the establishment of the CPO grade. In that article we look at why it was so important to recognize Chiefs and even how FRA helped Active Duty Advisory Council establish the position of Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. NES Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Joe Campa Joe Barnes focuses his Perspective column (page 21) on the uproar Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps John Estrada over conditions at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the care for Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Charles Bowen wounded patients recovering there. With so many things happening throughout the Association and on Reserve Advisory Council Capitol Hill, it was no surprise that during this past month, we had a Force Master Chief of the Naval Reserve David Pennington sharp increase in requests for additional copies of FRA Today. Shipmates USMC Reserve Force Sergeant Major Jimmy D. Cummings are using them as a way to provide service to prospective members by Master Chief Petty Officer of theC oast Guard Reserve Force Jeffrey Smith increasing awareness of the Association and its work on Capitol Hill. One example is Shipmate Charlie Baldwin from Branch 99 in Virginia Beach, Va. Shipmate Baldwin had been receiving an extra 50 copies each month for his branch to pass out at the Navy Exchange and FRA TODAY Magazine the Coast Guard station in Little Creek, Recruiting Station in Green Publisher FRA Briar, Navy Federal Credit Union, etc. They had wonderful results and Managing Editor Eileen Murphy needed an extra 50 to meet the demand. This is paying off in new mem- Contributing Editor Lauren Armstrong bers! Shipmate Baldwin recently wrote suggesting we ask, “What do you Design and Art Direction do with yours?” He asserts that if after each member read the magazine FIREBRAND, Alexandria, VA www.firebrandstudios.com Design Director Scott Rodgerson and then gave that copy to a prospective member, we would double the Production Manager Sandy Jones exposure of FRA’s work without any additional cost. This is certainly a great way of providing a service to both the recipient and FRA! “Drop it off on a store magazine rack, barber shop, doctors office etc.,” Baldwin suggested. “Let prospective members learn about what the Association fra today (ISSN 0028-1409) is published monthly by FRA, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, Va 22314-2754. A member’s subscription is covered by the member’s is doing and why it is important they join!” annual dues. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, VA and additional In the coming months, we will report on some of the great ways ship- offices. Publication of non-sponsored advertising in fra today does not constitute an endorsement by the FRA or its representatives. Postmaster: mates are recruiting new members. Please e-mail me at [email protected] to Send address changes to: Member Services, FRA, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2754. fra today is published in the interests of all current and share your successes and what you say to entice members to join. former enlisted personnel of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Eligible non-members are not entitled to subscription rates. Established 1 November 1923. Title registered with U.S. Patent Office.

Membership in FRA is open to all current and former Navy, Marine Corps FRA Administrative Headquarters: 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2754 Phone: 703-683-1400, 800-FRA-1924 • Fax: 703-549-6610 • E-Mail: [email protected] or Coast Guard enlisted personnel. Think about who you know who www . fra . o r g served — then give them a copy of FRA Today and ask them to join!

Eileen Murphy serves as the Managing Editor of FRA Today. Please contact her at [email protected]. APRIL 2007

Volume 86 Number 4 Featured 18 FRA Tod a y APRIL 2007 18 Give a Little, Give a Lot FRA Today highlights Shipmate Elliot who has been nominated by FRA for the Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service National Advisory Committee Volunteer of the Year as an example of how volunteering one’s time can mean so very much. Departments 6 on & Off Capitol Hill

10 np Travel Report National President Jerry L. Sweeney reports on his recent trip to the Pacific. In the first installment of a three-part column, he focuses on his stay in Yokosuka, Japan.

13 membership matters RVPNC Marty Posekany writes on the importance 10 of recruiting and retaining.

14 onWATCH Happy birthday CPOs! A look at the history and the current importance of the Chiefs.

21 NES perspective Walter Reed Fiasco

25 NEWS FROM THE BRANCHES

28 Reunions

30 Looking for…

32 Taps 14

36 LA FRA News On the cover

CPO selectees show their volunteer spirit at the 276- acre Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) Washington, D.C. campus. Once home to Abraham Lincoln, currently it is the home of many FRA shipmates from the AFRH in Gulfport, Miss. which FRA is a congressionally chartered, non-profit organization was closed after Hurricane Katrina. FRA advocates for advocating for current and former enlisted members of the adequate funding of the AFRH’s two facilities and U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard on Capitol Hill. For strongly supports the rebuilding of Gulfport, Miss., more information on the benefits of membership, please visit campus. More information on the rebuilding will be in www.fra.org or call 800-FRA-1924. the May issue of FRA Today. We were there when you landed on the northern coast of France.

We were there when you returned to the Philippine shore.

We were there when you fought in Korea and Vietnam.

We were there when you rolled across the deserts of Iraq.

We were there then.

We will always be there.

Proudly serving those who serve.

1-800-MILITARY (1-800-645-4827) Shipmate forum

Walter Reed Army Medical Center New Navy Uniforms FRA Tod a I was shocked to learn in recent days of the conditions at the I’ve heard that the U.S. Naval uniform has changed. To what Walter Reed Army Medical Center outpatient quarters and extent, I’m not sure. y the treatment of the wounded. Would FRA Today consider an article on this with pictures? APRIL 2007 The wounded veterans certainly deserve better from our Lee Ryan, Branch 57 country. I am hoping you will use your influence to help these wounded combat veterans. From FRA: The 13 November 2006 According to news reports, the treatment for those with issue of Navy Times has an article brain injuries is much more effective when started soon af- detailing the transition which is to ter the injury. News reports indicate many of the wounded begin a year from now and take 24 are compelled to wait for their treatment. months to complete. The new Navy Please help them. Working Uniform will be for E-1 to Russell R. Willard O-10 and E-1 to E-6 will have a new khaki and black Service Uniform From FRA: Please read NES Perspective on page 21. which will replace the summer and winter combinations. We will cover Looking For Column Helped this when the transition occurs. Thank you for the Looking For column and efforts in helping me find Shipmate Frank Smykowski, Jr. Medicare Part D Question I was contacted by Chief Petty Officer I received a letter today from Express Scripts, P.O. Box 52150 Norman Barron and unfortunately, Phoenix, AZ 85072-2150, stating that they are unable to fill Frank died 18 July 1945 and was buried my prescription order because my health care plan Secure in Hawaii. He was a CPhM. We met in Horizons enrolled me in Medicare Part D without my a Buffalo NY recruiting office and were knowledge or permission. sworn in the Navy at the same time In order to disenroll I have to drop my health care plan 7 November 1939. We went through which means my doctor of many years. Surely this must training at Newport R.I., and then to hospital Corps have happened to many other retirees as well. school in 1940 right out of boot camp. He volunteered for My pharmaceutical drug benefit with Express Scripts Parachute Medical for US Marine Corps after corps school has been a wonderful cost savings for me and my wife. We were there when you landed on the northern coast of France. in 1940. We last saw each other in New Zealand, June 1942. Please make the powers-that-be aware of this problem, We were both on liberty. and help me get back to normal. We were there when you returned to the Philippine shore. My family always felt close to him and they were inter- Irad J. Parkhurst, Branch 85 ested in his whereabouts too. We were there when you fought in Korea and Vietnam. Again, thank you for your help, and for Norman Barron’s From FRA: Some TRICARE beneficiaries who have tried to work. God Bless. use their TRICARE prescription plan have been surprised to We were there when you rolled across the deserts of Iraq. Anthony Pergolizzi, Branch 285 learn that they automatically enrolled in the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Now, the Department of Defense has We were there then. From FRA: Shipmate Pergolizzi, you are the ultimate exam- established a place for beneficiaries in this position to get their ple of loyalty. We are sorry your search ended with sadness, questions answered. If a TRICARE beneficiary is denied pre- We will always be there. but so very much appreciate — and honor — your commit- scription coverage due to Medicare Part D enrollment, and be- ment to your shipmate that made you continue the search all lieves that he or she is not enrolled in Medicare Part D, or have Proudly serving those who serve. these years. We salute you. disenrolled from Medicare Part D, the beneficiary should contact Express Scripts at 1-866-363-8779. The Express Scripts customer service representative will ask for the beneficiary’s permission to access Medicare Part D coverage information from CMS and determine whether the beneficiary is currently 1-800-MILITARY in a Part D plan.

(1-800-645-4827) Submissions Send Shipmate Forum letters to: Editor, FRA Today, 125 N. West St. Alexandria, VA 22314. E-mail submissions may be sent to [email protected]. Please include “Shipmate Forum” in the subject line. FRA reserves the right to select and edit letters for publication. Letters published in Shipmate Forum reflect the opinions and views of FRA members. They do not necessarily reflect the official position of FRA as a whole. FRA is not responsible for the accuracy of letter content. On & off capitol hill

Fight over DoD and VA Healthcare Costs Takes Center Stage

The Department of Defense (DoD) is again proposing elected officials on this issue through the Action Center

APRIL 2007 on the website at www.fra.org. y to shift rising healthcare costs to beneficiaries in an effort to balance its strained FY 2008 budget. In related developments, Rep. Vic Snyder (Ark.), FRA opposes these plans and our legis- Chairman of the House Personnel FRA Tod a lative team is working to shift the focus Subcommittee, challenged Dr. William of the debate to other options to make Winkenwerder, Assistant Secretary of TRICARE more cost-efficient as alter- Defense for Health Affairs (ASD), about natives to shifting costs for TRICARE pressure on the Task Force on the Future benefits to retiree beneficiaries under of Military Health Care to endorse age 65. DoD’s planned health care fee hike. NES Joe Barnes participated at a During a Subcommittee hearing, Snyder press conference hosted by Senators said “retiree advocates are understand- Frank Lautenberg (N.J.) and Chuck ably angry and even task force leaders Hagel (Neb.) to announce introduc- are very concerned.” Winkenwerder ex- tion of “The Military Health Care pressed confidence that the Task Force’s Protection Act” (S. 604) that would recommendations will be endorsed by limit TRICARE fee increases to the John Davis DoD and urged they be given serious FRA’s Director of consideration by Congress. Consumer Price Index (CPI), to no Legislative Programs more than annual retired pay increases The 14-member Task Force on the (see story page 21). This FRA supported Future of Military Healthcare was cre- legislation is similar to House legislation (H.R. 579) ated by the FY 2007 National Defense Authorization Act sponsored by Reps. Chet Edwards (Texas) and Walter (NDAA) to evaluate and recommend alternatives to en- Jones (N.C.) that prohibits TRICARE fee increases sure the availability and affordability of military medi- without Congressional approval. Both proposals are an cine over the long term. The Task Force will make an effort to counter enormous TRICARE fee increases as- interim report in May 2007 and the final report is due sumed in the DoD FY 2008 budget, which was sent to in December 2007. Following review by the Secretary, the Capitol Hill with a $1.8 billion shortage based on as- report will go to the House and Senate Armed Services sumed approval of the drastic fee hikes. DoD will be able Committees. to increase some fees by regulation effective 1 October unless there are legislative changes. Please contact your John Davis is a member of Navy Department Branch 181.

FRA Slams TRICARE Fee Increase Proposal Again FRA presented its views on the Department of Defense’s FRA opposes increased TRICARE fees and co-payments (DoD’s) drastic health care fee increases before the Task for retirees under age 65 until other cost saving options are Force on the Future of Military Health Care on 7 March. The implemented in order to “sustain the military health ben- panel was co-chaired by Dr. Gail Wilensky, Senior Fellow efit.” Barnes referenced results from FRA’s 2006 web sur- at Project HOPE and elected member of The Institute of vey in which over 90 percent of respondents opposed the Medicine of the National Academies. Administration’s TRICARE fee increases. More than 75 per- Speaking on behalf of FRA, NES Joe Barnes, who also cent of the survey respondents said that health care benefits serves as co-chair of The Military Coalition (TMC), stated, influenced their decision to remain in the military. “The drastic fee increase plan is a major issue in the retiree FRA’s Jr. Past National President Edgar Zerr, voiced strong communities – and also a morale issue in the senior enlisted opposition to DoD increasing healthcare fees this time last year, ranks. Active duty personnel view the plan as an erosion of when he testified before the Senate Armed Services’ Personnel their promised benefits.” Barnes led off presentations by Subcommittee, as the only enlisted organization representa- a team of five TMC organization witnesses. He asked the tive on a panel of four beneficiary group representatives. panel to keep in perspective that “the promise of access to FRA believes that adequately funding health care and health care benefits is an integral and long recognized part other programs for all beneficiaries is part of the cost of of the government’s commitment to those who’ve served defending our Nation, and ensuring our freedoms. For ad- our country in the past – and also those now serving our ditional information on the hearing, see Tom Philpott’s Nation in time of war.” 8 March 2007 Military Update on www.fra.org. On & off capitol hill

ACTION ALERT DoD Assistant Secretary for Health Resigns It is critical that you contact FRA Tod a elected officials to ask for their Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs, Dr. William Winkenwerder, will soon be support for both S. 604 and leaving the Pentagon to work in the private sector. He has served in the position since y APRIL 2007 H.R. 579 to make sure DoD October 2001. cannot increase various co-pays Winkenwerder, responsible for overall supervision of the DoD’s health and medical and enrollment fees! Visit the affairs, is the principal advisor to the Secretary of Defense for all health policies and Action Center at www.fra.org. resources plus various programs and activities. He has been the primary advocate for increasing TRICARE enrollment fees and co-pays for retired beneficiaries, and it is unclear how his departure will impact this initiative. FRA Testifies at House Dr. S. Ward Casscells, a professor of medicine and public health at the University of Armed Services Committee Texas Health Science Center and a former medical advisor in Baghdad, has been nominat- Hearing ed to replace Winkenwerder. The Senate must approve the nomination before Dr. Casscells takes office. FRA and six other organizations testified before the House Personnel Adequate Care for Injured Service Members Subcommittee on a broad range of FRA has long advocated adequate funding for DoD and VA healthcare resource- active, Reserve, retired and survivor sharing in delivering seamless, cost effective, quality services to personnel wound- benefits. ed while participating in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom, (OIF) other veterans, service members, reservists, military retirees Rep. Vic Snyder (Ark.) chairs the and their families. FRA is alarmed that some (OEF/OIF) combat-injured service subcommittee and Rep. John McHugh members are being discharged or medically retired and transferred to VA without is a ranking member of the panel adequate consideration of family needs for adjustment counseling and seamless which has broad oversight responsi- follow-up services. VA Secretary R. James Nicholson announced plans to create a special Advisory bility for pay, health care, benefits, end OIF/OEF Veterans and Families. The panel will include veterans, spouses and parents strengths, retiree and survivor benefits, of the latest generation of combat veterans, and will report directly to the VA Secretary. the Defense Commissary Agency and The committee will focus on the concerns of active military service in OEF/OIF, and MWR and other programs important will pay particular attention to severely disabled veterans and their families. The lack of adequate care for injured service members was also discussed by to FRA’s Legislative Agenda. the senior enlisted personnel at the first hearing of the House Appropriations Due to floor action and a series of Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, chaired by Rep. Chet votes scheduled for the full House of Edwards (Texas). The session focused on military quality of life issues with testi- Representatives, there was only time mony from the four Armed Services senior enlisted leaders. MCPON Joe Campa, SGTMAJ John Estrada and their Army and Air Force counterparts discussed a for summary statements by NES Joe number of top concerns with members of the panel. The Navy’s top requirements Barnes, who spoke on behalf of FRA are the need for more childcare facilities, additional homeport/ashore barracks, and The Military Coalition, and the and improved health care access via more providers in certain fleet concentration other six witnesses before Snyder areas. For the Marine Corps the list includes barracks improvements, enhanced workplace facilities, and more health care providers and counselors. adjourned the hearing with the un- derstanding that the session will be Speaking with the Speaker reconvened for further discussion and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi recently hosted a meeting with FRA staff and representatives from questions at a later time. various military and veteran’s organizations to learn about their legislative priorities. House In opening remarks Snyder said, majority leadership expressed its legislative priorities that included: “The Subcommittee appreciates the • opposition to the Administration’s request for TRICARE fee increases; • Adequate funding for VA healthcare programs; and broad scope and detail of the written • Improvements and reform of MGIB benefits for both active duty and Reservists. testimony, and the range of issues that A number of Democratic representatives attended the meeting, including Chairmen of the House impact military personnel and retir- Veterans Affairs (Rep. Bob Filner), House Budget (Rep. John Spratt), House Appropriations (Rep. ees.” The complete Military Coalition David Obey), and House Armed Services (Rep. Ike Skelton) Committees. FRA’s Director of Legislative Programs (DLP) John Davis spoke about the importance of adequate funding for DoD and VA health- statement is posted on online at care and other benefit enhancements for active and Reserve personnel including GM IB reform. www.themilitarycoalition.com. FRA staff also met with HASC and SASC staff to share FRA’s legislative agenda. On & off capitol hill

VA Enrollment Fees Budget Battles Continue For the fifth year in a row, the VA is seeking President Bush has signed into law H. J. Res. 20, a Continuing Resolution (CR) authorization for an enrollment fee and higher

APRIL 2007 that includes the remainder of the FY 2007 (current) budget that will remain in medication co-payments for veterans who y effect until 1 October 2007 — the beginning of the next fiscal year. have no service-connected disability and earn The new majority had previously indicated they would use the FY 2006 higher incomes (Priority groups 7 and 8), many FRA Tod a spending level as a baseline, a move that would have significantly reduced the of whom are military retirees. FRA adamantly Defense Health Program and the VA healthcare funding in FY 2007. FRA and opposed the VA’s FY 2008 budget request for other groups lobbied successfully to boost VA healthcare funding by $3.6 billion an increase in pharmacy co-pays from $8 to and increase the Defense Health Program by $1.2 billion, restoring these pro- $15 for these beneficiaries and a new tiered grams to their FY 2007 levels. annual enrollment fee based on annual family The CR also increases funding for Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) by income above $50,000. According to the pro- $500 million and BRAC (Base Realignments And Closures) by $1 billion over FY posal, vets with annual family income between 2006, but $3.1 billion less than the Administration requested. The House leader- $50,000-74,999 would pay a $250 enrollment ship has indicated that the BRAC money will be included in the supplemental fee; those earning $75,000 to $99,999 would war appropriations bill that will be debated in the coming weeks. pay a $500 annual enrollment fee; and a $750 Congress has also begun deliberations on the nearly $100 billion emergency annual enrollment fee would be applied to war supplemental appropriations bill, which includes funding for the troop veterans who earn $100,000 or more. surge in Iraq. Rep. John Murhta (Penn.), Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense wants to attach a provision that would define readi- Concurrent Receipt Bill ness standards for troops deployed to Iraq. Republicans have portrayed the plan Introduced in Senate as a “slow bleed” strategy that would impact American forces in Iraq, and it’s Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid unclear how the legislation will address the war policy. (Nev.) has introduced “The Retired Pay Shifting to the FY 2008 budget request, the Navy is slated to cut end strength Restoration Act of 2007” (S. 439) that by 23,000 over seven years, and there are reports that Navy end strength will be would permit disabled military retirees reduced by 19,300 through FY 2009. FRA welcomed the Administration’s call for to receive their service-connected dis- adding 27,000 Marines and 65,000 Army personnel in respective end strengths ability from VA and their full military over five years, but is worried about the Navy’s continuing and ambitious draw retired pay or Combat-Related Special down, which is driven in part by pressure to reduce costs to free up resources to Compensation (CRSC). The bill would pay for more ships and new weapons systems. eliminate the phase-in period for concurrent receipt under the current law. The Total Force MGIB Bills Introduced bill is identical to H.R. 303, sponsored by Legislation to make Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) benefits adequate and equitable for the Rep. Gus Bilirakis (Fla.). Members are en- Reserve component of the Armed Forces has been introduced in both chambers of Congress. couraged to use the FRA Action Center at The measures are sponsored by HASC Military Personnel Subcommittee Chairman Rep. www.fra.org to contact their represen- Vic Snyder (H.R. 1102) and by Sen. Blanche Lincoln (S. 644), both from Arkansas and advo- tative on H.R. 303, and their Senators on cate a “Total Force GI Bill.” Both are endorsed by the Partnership for Veterans Education, a S. 439 to ask for their support. coalition of more than 50 education and military/veterans groups, including FRA. The group’s goal is modernizing the MGIB to make it a more valuable benefit of military service. In 1985 the two separate programs (Reserve and active duty) were enacted into law, and at that time SBP Reform to be Introduced the Reserve benefit was 47 percent of the active duty MGIB benefit. Today Reservists only Senator Bill Nelson (Fla.) is expected to receive 29 percent of the active duty benefit. The Total Force G.I. Bill will do the following: soon introduce legislation that chang- 1) Consolidate the active duty and Reserve MGIB programs under one authority by transfer- es the paid-up effective date for SBP ring jurisdiction to the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees and the VA. participants from 1 October 2008 to 1 2) Ensure that Reserve MGIB benefits would increase in proportion to increases in the October 2007 and eliminates the DIC active duty MGIB. This would help address the growing inequity of benefits between offset. The paid-up provision would the two programs. apply to participants who reach age 70 3) Allow Reservists to draw their benefits up to 10 years after service just like active duty can and have paid SBP premiums for 30 do now. years. FRA strongly supports an accel- 4) Provide an accruable, month-per-month active duty rate for mobilized members of the eration of the implementation date for Reserve component. paid-up SBP coverage. Further details Members are encouraged to contact their elected officials through the Action Center on on the legislation will be reported after www.fra.org. the bill is introduced. On & off capitol hill

VDBC Debates Concurrent Receipt Reform Veterans Status for Reservists with 20 Years FRA Tod a The Veterans Disability Benefits Commission (VDBC) discussed concurrent receipt at its

February meeting. Commissioners planned to make a recommendation on changes to concur- FRA understands that Rep. Tim Walz y rent receipt, but after lengthy debate deferred the decision until its March meeting. FRA has (Minn.) plans to introduce legislation APRIL 2007 testified and submitted a written statement on this issue and is also represented in a state- to provide full veteran status for mem- ment presented on behalf of The Military Coalition (TMC). FRA strongly supports full concur- bers of the Reserve components with rent receipt for all disabled military retirees and also supports expanding CRSC to members 20 years or more service, but who do who were medically compelled to retire short of 20 years of service solely because of their not otherwise qualify under current combat-incurred disabilities. Shipmates are welcome to contact the Commission to express law as veterans. All members of the their concerns on this issue at [email protected]. Selected Reserve volunteer for service The Commission is scheduled to make its final report to Congress by 1 October 2007. In addi- to the nation and are liable for acti- tion, several legislative proposals addressing concurrent receipt have been introduced (H.R. 89, H.R. vation in its defense. A Reservist that 303, H.R. 333, and S. 439 — all listed on the FRA Action Center) to reform concurrent receipt. has not been called to federal active In addition, the Commission is reviewing the SBP/DIC offset issue and plans to make a duty for at least 90 days during a 20- recommendation for reform. TMC testimony on this issue was submitted to the Commission year-or-more service career does not at the February hearing. qualify the member for full status as a veteran under the law. These “Gray Predatory Lending Update Area” Reservist-retirees are presently entitled to TRICARE at age 60, but are FRA’s DLP John Davis met with staff from the American Bankers Association to not eligible to apply for enrollment in discuss their concerns with the FRA-supported predatory loan protections that the VA healthcare system. Twenty or take effect 1 October 2007. more years of service in the Reserves In related news, more than 40 House Democrats sent a letter to Rep. Barney and eligibility for Reserve retired pay Frank (Mass.), Chairman House Financial Services Committee, stating that it is should be sufficient qualifying service not appropriate for federal regulation of the payday lending industry and that for full veteran status under the law. a cap of 36% on consumer loans will eliminate consumer access to short-term This issue is a matter of honor to those small loans. Also Sen. Tim Johnson (S.D.) has requested that the GAO review the who, through no fault of their own, DoD study for erroneous data and faulty analysis. were never activated, but served their FRA wrote to DoD requesting that the department promulgate a regulation nation faithfully for 20 years or more. pertaining to the predatory lending protections in the Defense Authorization Act that does not exclude any type of lending institution from the law. Some trade groups representing various financial institutions have criticized Flag Amendments Introduced the provision and have recommended that legislation be introduced to repeal the predatory lending protections before they take effect. Shipmates can express Congressman John Murtha (Penn.) has their support for the predatory lending protections on the FRA Action Center re-introduced H. J. Res. 12, proposing an located at www.fra.org. amendment to the Constitution that would FRA lead the fight to enact predatory lending protections last year and has prohibit desecration of the flag of the for many years advocated that unregulated predatory lenders represent a serious United States. In addition Congresswoman danger to national security. This is a major concern in the sea services senior enlisted communities because a service member experiencing debt-related stresses Jo Ann Emerson (Mo.) has introduced H. J. may be less focused on the mission and compromise not only his or her safety, Res. 9, proposing a similar constitutional but also that of the entire unit. amendment that would prohibit flag desecration and set criminal penalties for USFSPA Reform that act. The Defense Department has unexpectedly sent recommendations to staff of the House Many brave men and women who serve and Senate Armed Services Committee to be considered as amendments to the Uniform and have served in the Armed Services Services Former Spouse Protection Act including: feel deeply about the honor and dignity of • Base former spouse award amount on member’s grade/years of service at the time of “Old Glory.” FRA supports these proposed divorce (and not retirement), amendments and members are urged to • Prohibit award of imputed income while still on active duty contact their elected officials on this is- • Permit designation of multiple SBP beneficiaries FRA hosted a strategy meeting of the Military Coalition’s Retired Affairs Committee on sue through the Action Center located on the recommendations at National Headquarters today, and continues to work toward the the FRA website www.fra.org. introduction of legislation to address the inequities in the onerous law. continued on page 21 National President’s Travel Report Japan

10 What a journey. When I was elected as National Vice President, I pledged to visit as many branches as possible during my time in office. Sandy and I sold our home, bought an RV and set out to meet the shipmates, listen to their concerns and suggestions and let APRIL 2007

y them know how important each and every one is to the success of FRA. Since that time, I have visited 121 branches and by the end of May, that number will be over 165. FRA Tod a It continues to be an inspiring experience — and I have learned a lot. My commitment was not only to visit branches to which I can drive, however. FRA has 389 members in Japan, 588 in the Philippines, and 65 in Guam and they are each very important to the Association. To get a thorough picture of the state of FRA, it was extremely important that I visit the Pacific branches and learn about their unique challenges. Some of the branches have never been visited by a National President or National Vice President — and most of the members will never get to a Regional or National Convention. It is imperative that we keep a close bond through the Association, so over the next three months, I will use this article to share the trip with you. I am sure you will appreciate the impressive FRA spirit in the Pacific. My hope is future National Presidents will also commit to visiting branches in the States and abroad. Our success as an organization depends on strong communication.

5 – 12 February, 2007 Yokosuka, Japan

We arrived in Japan on Monday, 5 February, 2007 and were met at the Narita (Tokyo) Airport by Branch 103 (Yokosuka, Japan) President Frank Misiura. I am pleased to say that Branch 103 is very active within FRA. Shipmate President Frank Misiura has shown great leadership and has rectified some problems the branch had experienced, including declining membership, and has had a two year increase of membership of nearly fifty percent. The branch, and most especially Shipmate Misiura, should be commended for their “can do spirit.” Shipmate Misiura is a retired Master Chief Petty Officer and plans to live in the Yokosuka area for several more years, so I am sure the branch will be in good hands. For our entire seven day stay, we were billeted at the Yokosuka Naval Base Distinguished Visitors Quarters (DVQ). The Quarters were excellent accommodations, consisting of a living room, dining room, kitchen (with washer and dryer), bedroom, bathroom and a patio. We certainly appreciated Branch 103 supplying our quarters with food and beverages. The branch home and club is located right outside the gates of the Naval Base. Although it is open to the public, the club is mostly used by branch members. It is certainly in a perfect location for events to attract sailors and is an asset for recruiting. Our trip included opportunities to tour the Yokosuka Naval Base and several parts of the cities of Yokosuka, Yokohama and a brief trip to see Mt. Fuji. I was consistently amazed at how clean the streets of Japan are. The base is also impeccable — it was very impressive. Throughout our stay, we were treated like royalty and are very grateful for the hospitality shown by everyone we met. We en- joyed eating at the Officers’ Club and the Chief Petty Officers Club, where we were joined for dinner one evening by Branch 103 Vice President Bill and Mrs. Beckwith. This trip provided a tremendous opportunity for increasing awareness of FRA. On Wednesday, 7 February, for example, I gave an overview of FRA and a legislative brief to eighteen senior enlisted personnel and two Branch 103 members at a Senior Enlisted Luncheon at the CPO club. This was very well received and the personnel were grateful to FRA for all the work we are doing. Japan National President’s Travel Report

11 FRA Tod a y APRIL 2007

U . S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class David A. Levy Yokosuka, Japan — The aircraft carrier

USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). National President Jerry L. Sweeney addresses shipmates of Branch 103 Later that day I attended the Branch 103 General Assembly at their General Assembly Meeting Meeting, and heard about the great work at the branch. The branch is not only dedicated to its own growth and prosperity, it also very dedicated to the community. Half of the proceeds from the club are donated to outside activities and organizations within the Yokosuka Naval Base and the City of Yokosuka. In the past year, more than $20,000 was donated to support programs ranging from the Yokosuka Sailor of the Year Luncheon, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and activities to assist underprivileged children. It is inspiring to see their service to those in need. Later in the week, I presented two active duty briefs on FRA initiatives. Unfortunately, attendance was very small, but the information was very well received. The active duty shipmates were not familiar with FRA; a reminder of how important prominent and positive visibility is with the active duty community. The shipmates in attendance had been sent by their commands to “see what it was all about” and report back. One CPO commented after the brief that she was going to go back and join FRA online. After the second brief I was interviewed by the Armed Forces Pacific Network and talked about what FRA does, our legislative agenda and the benefits of membership. Certainly one of the highlights of the trip was my tour of the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) and meeting with the Command Master Chief. The Kitty Hawk will soon be coming back to the States to be decommissioned and replaced in Yokosuka by the USS George Washington, a nuclear powered carrier. While on the Kitty Hawk, I was interviewed by the Public Affairs Chief Petty Officer on what the FRA was and why I was visiting Japan. Later that day, I had a Courtesy Call with Rear Admiral James D. Kelly, Commander U.S. Naval Forces Japan. We discussed quality of life issues and military readiness. Admiral Kelly is keenly aware of the FRA and promised his command support of FRA at both the local and national levels. His support is greatly appreciated and is needed! Branch 103 has a very bright future and I pledge FRA’s continued support to the active duty personnel stationed in Yokosuka. It is my hope that my trip helped bring awareness of the importance of FRA Do you have questions for the National Shipmate Joseph Hand received his membership to the community. After Member Drive recruiting pin from President regarding his trip to Japan? all, the larger we are, the louder our col- - NP Sweeney at the Branch meeting. Post those questions on www.fra.org lective voice is heard on Capitol Hill! under Communities and he will re spond to as many as possible in the coming weeks. EHDW_41433_32888_7x9.25 2/16/07 3:46 PM Page 1

ItIt wiwillll staystay inin youryour familyfamily forfor centuries;centuries; itit willwill bebe accurateaccurate forfor quitequite aa bitbit longer.longer.

The Atomic Watch fromfrom E.E. HowardHoward && Co.Co. Call Today By the time your great for FREE grandson gets it, it’ll still be Shipping almost 6 million years away fromfrom losinglosing oneone second.second.

or centuries, if someone wanted a watch worthy of passing touch it again. It automatically adjusts for Daylight Saving Time, on to future generations, it had to come from Europe. 30-day months, and leap years. It comes with the E. Howard name FThen, in 1842, a small American manufacturer of fine and a certificate of authenticity. timepieces began to produce clocks and watches that rivaled Designed for a lifetime of accuracy. This finely crafted watch those of the Europeans. blends past and future with an elegant, easy-to-read analog display Since then, the expert watchmakers at E. Howard and and a handy digital readout, showing Day and Month, Seconds, or Company have been known around the world for the accuracy U.S. Time Zone at the touch of a button. This good-looking watch and classic elegance of their timepieces. Now, they’ve developed is also tough, with a scratch-resistant crystal and polished stainless the Continental Atomic Wristwatch– blending quality crafts- steel case that’s water-resistant. manship, distinctive design and atomic accuracy into one watch. Try it now with our exclusive home trial. No one has sold It’s destined to be in your family for years and it’s guaranteed to more Atomic Watches than we have, and this is the one that meets be accurate to within a billionth of a second. our high standards for looks and performance. We are so sure that Never set your watch again. The reason this watch is so you will like it too that we are offering it with our exclusive 90-day accurate is because it gets its signal from the official U.S. Atomic home trial. If you are not completely satisfied with the watch for Clock in Fort Collins, Colorado. The standard for time keeping any reason, simply return it within 90 days for a refund of the throughout the U.S., the Atomic Clock uses sophisticated purchase price and keep the atomic alarm clock as our gift. technology to measure the vibration of atoms, which is constant. E. Howard Continental Atomic Watch For this reason, it is accurate to within a billionth of a second and will take approximately 6 million years for it to lose a second! Item # ZR-23041STS ...... $99.95 Until now, watches designed to receive the radio signal had to *FREE Radio Controlled Atomic Alarm Clock a $14.95 value. have plastic cases. Now, “America’s Timekeeper” has created a FREE shipping a $9.95 value. high-quality analog watch in stainless steel style. The watch is Free shipping within the contiguous 48 states only. designed so that it can still receive the signal–so you get FREE gift pack—a $20.00 value! , Inc. traditional elegant styling with modern time keeping accuracy. • $20 Coupon off your next purchase. ® Once you’ve selected the proper time zone, you never have to • Free 6-month subscription to firstSTREET magazine. Please mention promotional code 32888. *Call now and order the FREE GIFT For fastest service, call toll-free 24 hours a day E. Howard Watch - get this Radio 1-800-844-4216 Controlled Atomic Alarm Clock We accept all major credit cards, as well as payment by check with valued at $14.95 absolutely FREE ClearTran™ over the phone. To order by mail, please call for details. www.AtomicTimeDirect.com as our gift to you. • Atomic radio-controlled time

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Letter from RVPNC Marty Posekany Membership matters 13 Regional Vice President North Central Marty Posekany is working with branches in his region

ItIt wiwillll staystay inin youryour familyfamily forfor centuries;centuries; FRA Tod a to strengthen FRA’s membership. He is also the secretary for Wolverine Branch 298 (Grand Rapids, Mich.). His observations and insights about the North Central Region offer some points for all ship- y itit willwill bebe accurateaccurate forfor quitequite aa bitbit longer.longer. mates to consider. As it is volunteer month, we thank Shipmate Posekany for offering his time to be APRIL 2007 our guest Membership Matters columnist for April.

Let me start by thanking all shipmates for their recruit- many new members and is a big rea- ing efforts. We are slowing the loss and that is a step in the son that our region’s numbers have Marty Posekany right direction. What can we do to maintain and advance improved in the past quarter. Branch Regional Vice this momentum? Continue to recruit and continue to re- 242 (Davenport, Iowa) also deserves President tain! I feel that with continued hard work, we can have an- recognition for increasing its mem- North Central other positive gain in the coming months. bership by 15 percent so far this year. Other branches in In analyzing membership numbers for our region, we our region that have positive recruiting numbers are: 138 The Atomic Watch found some interesting trends. On average, 16 shipmates pass (Calumet, Mich.); 160 (Muskogee, Okla.); 348 (Fort Wayne, fromfrom E.E. HowardHoward && Co.Co. Call Today away each month; 16 shipmates are recruited each month; Ind.); 241 (Haysville, Kan.); 284 (Lexington, Ky.); 221 By the time your great for FREE and more than 16 members are lost for non-payment of (Peoria, Ill.) and 130 (Indianapolis, Ind.). Your hard work is grandson gets it, it’ll still be Shipping dues. Many of the members who choose not to renew their sincerely appreciated. almost 6 million years away membership have been members for fewer than five years. Please go to your next branch meeting and discuss the fromfrom losinglosing oneone second.second. The bottom line: We sign up enough new members to offset topic of recruiting. After the discussion, I encourage the the loss of those who report to the Supreme Commander, but branch officers to ask the shipmates to open their wallet or or centuries, if someone wanted a watch worthy of passing touch it again. It automatically adjusts for Daylight Saving Time, we need to concentrate on retaining the members we have. purse, and show an FRA and LAFRA membership applica- on to future generations, it had to come from Europe. 30-day months, and leap years. It comes with the E. Howard name I would like to recognize several branches that are do- tion. If they don’t have one, give them three! Call National FThen, in 1842, a small American manufacturer of fine and a certificate of authenticity. ing great recruiting work. A big thank you goes to ship- Headquarters for more or download them from www.fra.org. timepieces began to produce clocks and watches that rivaled Designed for a lifetime of accuracy. This finely crafted watch mates of our new Northern Kentucky Branch 283 (Elsmere, Please make sure the applications you print with your news- those of the Europeans. blends past and future with an elegant, easy-to-read analog display Ky.). Spearheaded by Jim Hammond, the branch signed up letters are the most current applications available. Since then, the expert watchmakers at E. Howard and and a handy digital readout, showing Day and Month, Seconds, or Company have been known around the world for the accuracy U.S. Time Zone at the touch of a button. This good-looking watch and classic elegance of their timepieces. Now, they’ve developed is also tough, with a scratch-resistant crystal and polished stainless FRA NHQ Staff the Continental Atomic Wristwatch– blending quality crafts- steel case that’s water-resistant. Spotlight on manship, distinctive design and atomic accuracy into one watch. Try it now with our exclusive home trial. No one has sold PRPNC Ken Smith, Secretary of Branch 136, is incred- It’s destined to be in your family for years and it’s guaranteed to more Atomic Watches than we have, and this is the one that meets ibly dedicated and driven to have the perfect roster. PROFILE: Jimmy Short be accurate to within a billionth of a second. our high standards for looks and performance. We are so sure that With more than 650 members in his branch, making Never set your watch again. The reason this watch is so you will like it too that we are offering it with our exclusive 90-day Jimmy Short is the FRA National accurate is because it gets its signal from the official U.S. Atomic home trial. If you are not completely satisfied with the watch for sure each record is spotless is a tall order. Smith knows Headquarters Mail Clerk, and cel- ebrates 35 years with the Association Clock in Fort Collins, Colorado. The standard for time keeping any reason, simply return it within 90 days for a refund of the that the members of his branch will be best served if their information in their records is in perfect order. this July. He obviously enjoys his job, throughout the U.S., the Atomic Clock uses sophisticated purchase price and keep the atomic alarm clock as our gift. which includes fulfilling orders for Recently, Smith called Headquarters to make a sug- technology to measure the vibration of atoms, which is constant. E. Howard Continental Atomic Watch items branches order, taking care of For this reason, it is accurate to within a billionth of a second and gestion on improving the functionality of the Area for all outgoing mail — including monthly Item # ZR-23041STS ...... $99.95 branch and unit reports, opening and will take approximately 6 million years for it to lose a second! Branch and Regional Officers on www.fra.org. During Photo by: Vince Cuthie Until now, watches designed to receive the radio signal had to *FREE Radio Controlled Atomic Alarm Clock a $14.95 value. the conversation, he mentioned that he had taken the sorting all incoming mail (donations, dues notices, letters, branch newsletters, letters….) and have plastic cases. Now, “America’s Timekeeper” has created a FREE shipping a $9.95 value. opportunity 16 inches of snow gave him to sit at his high-quality analog watch in stainless steel style. The watch is Free shipping within the contiguous 48 states only. taking FRA employees to Capitol Hill in the FRA van. His computer and update records. As of that point, he had favorite aspect of the job is interacting with his co-workers. designed so that it can still receive the signal–so you get FREE gift pack—a $20.00 value! , Inc. made over 300 entries on the site — comparing his traditional elegant styling with modern time keeping accuracy. • $20 Coupon off your next purchase. ® Jimmy served in the Army in the late 1960s, and was branch roster with what the Post Office (www.usps. Once you’ve selected the proper time zone, you never have to • Free 6-month subscription to firstSTREET magazine. stationed in Panama. Please mention promotional code 32888. com) has for the zip+4 and then making corrections in the members’ records. Having the correct zip+4 When he is not at work, Jimmy spends his time watch- *Call now and order the For fastest service, call toll-free 24 hours a day ing his favorite western and military movies. Jimmy also FREE GIFT ensures the delivery of bulk mail, including FRA E. Howard Watch - get this Radio spends time on jigsaw puzzles, his most recent one con- 1-800-844-4216 Today and Shipmate Smith knows nobody would want taining 3,000 pieces. The big focus of his week, how- We accept all major credit cards, as well as payment by check with Controlled Atomic Alarm Clock ever, is bowling in a Monday night league — his team ClearTran™ over the phone. To order by mail, please call for details. to miss that! valued at $14.95 absolutely FREE Thank you Shipmate Smith for your loyalty, dedi- is currently in 2nd place! The league has quite the FRA www.AtomicTimeDirect.com rivalry — Jimmy enjoys playing against FRA’s Director of cation and service to your branch, to your region and as our gift to you. Membership, Bob Washington’s team. Tuesday lunch con- • Atomic radio-controlled time to FRA as a whole. Certainly, the HQ staff members versation frequently focuses on who bowled better!

All rights reserved. © 2007 TechnoBrands appreciate your assistance and your suggestions. It is • Automatically sets time Jimmy and his wife Elisa have been married 17 years. • Time alarm with snooze always a pleasure to hear from you. They have one “child”…a very hyper Chihuahua-terrier

• Large LED display 41433 mix named Toto. 14 FRA Today APRIL 2007 ONWATCH employed inthelowerranks. before aselectionboard—formofpeerreviewnot the Navy, advancementtoChiefalsorequiresappearance evaluations, andscorewellonspecialtyexams.Andin ments fortimeinservice,haveoutstandingperformance important and A ment. jects, understand Chiefs mates. officers ofthe time. Intotal,nineratingswere includedin promotion and apayraisetonearlyallfirst classpetty first officialdelineationofthe ChiefPetty Officergrade. Regulations CircularNo.1(dated 13March1893)wasthe appeared inpaychartsthe mid-1800s,buttheNavy’s Chief Gunner’sMatesand Quartermasters”also most authority. The ratingsof“ChiefBoatswain’sMates, “Chief Cook”toindicatehisstatusasthecookwith the ContinentalNavy’swarship during theRevolutionaryWar, whenaCook’sMateaboard until 1893.Thefirstdocumenteduseofthetitleoccurred 1700s, butwasn’tformallyestablishedbytheU.S.Navy hasresonatedaboardshipssincethe The titleof“Chief” Naval Roots for influencingothers. of thefirstordersignificance,exceedsothers,capacity person ofthehighestauthority, ofmaximumimportance, find alotofsuperlativesassociatedwiththeword:“The inthedictionary,If youlookuptheword“chief” you’ll Chiefs inCharge order toadvance,candidatesmustmeetminimalrequire most significantpromotionwithintheenlistedranks.In their leadershipandprofessionalism. FRA proudlysalutesallNavyandCoastGuardChiefsfor the 114thanniversaryofChiefPetty Officergrade,and petty officerstotherankof“Chief.” 1April2007,marks and CoastGuardchoosetoelevatetheirmostcapable fields Chiefs leadership mong Chief The officialestablishmentof the CPOgradebrought Advancement toChiefisconsideredbymanybethe

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The FRA National Convention Committee invites you to attend

FRA’s 80th / LA FRA’s 75th National Conventions Workshop topics include: in Corpus Christi, Texas Health Care Financial Planning 31 October – 3 November, 2007 Active, Reserve, Retiree Benefits Veterans Affairs Omni Bayfront Tower Survivor Benefits Professional Development The May issue of FRA Today will highlight Corpus Christi Utilizing Technology and the great things to see and do while you are in town.

Yes! I would like to be recognized in the Convention Journal as supporting current and former Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard enlisted personnel. A contribution of $______to support the 2007 Convention is included. Please list the following names as supporters in the Convention Journal Booster Roll.

Last name First name Middle initial Branch/Unit or Member at Large

Enclosed is my business card and $15. Please include this in the Convention Journal in lieu of the Booster Roll.

Please make checks payable to FRA and mail with the above form to: FRA National Headquarters, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria VA 22314 The Best Health Care Coverage For You ... GUARANTEED!

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vidually, while others participate as part of a y branch (and/or unit) project. Either way, their APRIL 2007 efforts touch many lives and make a power- ful impact on the veterans they serve. One example of outstanding volunteer effort is Shipmate Tom Elliot Jr. of Pinetree Branch 156 in Brunswick, Maine. Shipmate Elliot has been nominated by FRA for the VAVS National Advisory Committee Volunteer of the Year. In addition to his FRA involve- Yokosuka, Japan (1 Dec., 2006) - Sailors, Marines ment, he is also active in several other orga- and family members start running the Yokosuka nizations, including the Disabled American Morale, Recreation and Welfare 5k Toys for Tots Run outside the Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka new Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars gymnasium. (VFW), Purple Heart Association, the U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Barry American Legion, Knights of Columbus and R. Hirayama the Elks. He works on behalf of all of these organizations to assist veterans. patients was riding in the golf cart and she A VAVS representative for more than 20 said, ‘Boy, I’d sure love to drive this thing.’ years, Elliot is involved with veterans eight So I told her move on over and she’d have to ten hours per day, five days per week. her chance. We had such fun! I kept yelling Until recently, he drove a van five days a ‘Turn right! Turn left! Look out for that cliff!’ week, transporting veterans to medical and things like that and she just laughed and appointments at the VA Medical Center in laughed. She had a ball and so did I!” Togus, Maine. A new volunteer is now driv- Elliot also helps veterans by raising funds ing on Wednesdays. that directly benefit thousands of vets each “I get such satisfaction from helping year. He’s a phenomenal fundraiser — sell- these vets,” says Shipmate Elliot. “I have ing raffle tickets, writing letters, asking some very sick people on my transportation veterans organizations for donations, all to route and I know they can’t get to the VA raise money to support his vision for assist- without my help. It gives me pleasure to be ing veterans. their friend.” He’s quick to point out the assistance And Elliot is indeed their friend. of other volunteers and volunteer organiza- “There have been times when I find my tions, but Elliot is understandably proud of vets down – they don’t answer the door or the projects he’s helped bring to fruition. their phone, and I have to call the police to “I was involved in raising $77,777 to break in and help them. I’ve buried several of replace every piece of gym equipment at them in the past few months, and it’s hard.” Togus. We raised $80,000 for a new bus. In addition to his transportation duties, We recently raised $7,500 for a Hospice Elliot directly touches hundreds of veterans Room at the VA Center.” each year. With the help of other volunteers Elliot’s own stay in a hospital inspired a and the many organizations he works with, golf cart shuttle that takes veterans to and Elliot is able to sponsor a variety of social from their parked cars to the front door of events for veterans, including an ice cream the Togus VA Medical Center. social or pizza party once a week. He works “I’d had a heart attack and was having a at the information desk and pushes wheel- great deal of trouble getting from the park- chairs. He launched a computer training pro- ing lot to the hospital,” said Elliot. “I knew gram, and offers computers for veterans to if I was having this problem, there had to be take home if they wish. He also brings flow- other veterans who were in a similar, if not ers to inpatient veterans on Valentine’s Day worse, situation. I figured there had to be a and Daffodil Day. He’s currently in the pro- better way.” cess of organizing a class to teach sign lan- Not even a heart attack slowed Elliot Norfolk, Va. (10 Feb., 2007) - Senior Chief down. He raised $10,000 to purchase the Gas Turbine System Technician Mike guage to the visually impaired, a project that Wroten, assigned to guided missile destroyer requires special teaching aids and materials. shuttle vehicle, and is currently gathering USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), helps his son “We’ve been sponsoring a golf tourna- funds to purchase a second shuttle. bowl at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Hampton Roads, “For Kids’ Sake, Bowl” ment for the visually impaired for a long time event at the AMF Military Lanes in Norfolk. now,” recalls Shipmate Elliot. “One of our

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Tyler Jones National Veterans Service Volunteer Officer Shipmate Chris 20 GiVe “When I see vets riding that little shuttle Volunteers are vital to the success of Slawinski ( Branch 181) and hear their stories, I know I did a good USO’s mission, whether helping a soldier will host FRA’s Your Voice thing,” says Elliot. “I know I did a good job.” with a connecting flight, distributing a Care teleconference at noon Chris Slawinski, FRA’s National Service Package, serving snacks with a smile, pro- (EDST) on Wednesday, April Officer, encourages branches and units to viding local information, or “welcoming

APRIL 2007 11, 2007, to discuss the y make volunteering part of their overall com- home” troops from deployment. While the VAVS program and how munity involvement. “We need to remem- duties of a USO volunteer may vary, the goal shipmates and branches can

FRA Tod a ber that part of the FRA credo is ‘Service.’ is always the same — and closely aligned get involved. To participate What better way to demonstrate this than with FRA’s purpose — to improve the qual- in the teleconference, please by helping our fellow veterans?” ity of life of service members, to boost their dial 877-746-9514 at noon Without this program and those who vol- morale and to serve as the link between ser- unteer, VA will be forced to provide funding vice members and the American people. EDST. When asked for a code in order to cover the costs of hiring addition- LA FRA National President Sandy number, enter 1924. To listen al employees. This, in return, would likely re- Robbins has chosen the USO as her National only, enter code 1400. duce funding for other programs needed to President’s Project for this Association year. support our veterans. According to the VAVS “I chose the USO for my National Slawinski can be directly website, “[Our] volunteers are a priceless President’s Project,” says Robbins, “be- reached at 1-800-FRA-1924, asset to America’s veterans and the VA.” cause I wanted our members to feel like ext. 115 or via e-mail at Additional opportunities exist to serve they were doing something for our military. [email protected]. active duty personnel, veterans and their This is one way we can show our apprecia- families. tion for the service and sacrifice of our military men and women.” USO Funds raised toward the National

When most people think of the USO, they President’s Project will go to support three April 15 – 21 is National think of Bob Hope’s annual tours to entertain specific USO activities. The first is Operation Volunteer Week the troops, but the USO is so much more. Phone Home, a campaign designed to pro- As a private, nonprofit organization, the vide prepaid international calling cards to ser- Give a little, and you will USO’s mission is to provide morale, welfare vicemen and women overseas. Every penny give a lot. and recreational services to our men and donated is used to purchase and distribute women in uniform. The USO currently op- the 100-, 300- and 500-minute global calling USO erates more than 130 centers worldwide, cards. The second is the USO’s Operation 703-908-6400 including ten mobile canteens located in Care Package, a program for service mem- www.uso.org the continental United States and overseas. bers who are enroute to an overseas as- Service members and their families visit signment or are currently deployed. These Navy-Marine Corps USO centers more than 5.6 million times packages boost morale and provide a safe Relief Society each year. And of course, the USO still and secure way for the public to show their 703-696-4904 sponsors entertainment tours throughout support for our troops. The third program, www.nmcrs.org the world to entertain the troops, bringing Gifts from the Homefront, provides gift cer- home to those abroad. tificates service members can use at base Armed Forces exchanges and commissaries. Blood Program Chicago, Ill., (8 Sept, 2003) – Chief Hospital Corpsman (Select) To make a donation to the LA FRA www.militaryblood.dod.mil Jonnalynn Cummings visits with veteran Leon Gilbert at Chicago’s National President’s Project for 2006- Call for location nearest Westside VA Hospital during Chicago CPO Pride Day. The 130 selectees from all commands at Naval Station Great Lakes joined with 85 chief 2007, send a check (payable to LA FRA, you: 202-782-4156 petty officers to show their pride by delivering USO Ty Bears to veterans. with “National President’s Project” in the In Japan: U.S. Navy photo by Chief Journalist Rhonda Burke memo line) to the LA FRA National Financial 011-81-611-743-7737 Secretary Eileen M. Magnan, P.O. Box 530326, San Diego, CA 92153-0326. Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service Call your local Lauren Armstrong Contributing Editor and LA FRA VA Hospital Member at Large is a USO Volunteer at Reagan National www.va.gov/volunteer Airport USO Lounge. We thank Lauren for her service. American Red Cross www.redcross.org 800-733-2767

To find a volunteer opportunity in your area: www.volunteermatch.org Walter Reed Fiasco NES Perspective 21 The uproar in the media and on Capitol Hill over what’s once all the reports have been completed and shelved — been going on at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in and the politicians have railed about this for maximum FRA Tod a Washington, D.C. continues. It has gotten even more bizarre media coverage and political advantage — not much will y with the firing of Army MajGen George W. Weightman, who likely change. That’s because of huge bureaucracies and APRIL 2007 served as commander of the facility since only last August, resistance to change despite some so-called partnering followed by the firing of Army Secretary initiatives mandated by legislation dat- Francis J. Harvey by Secretary of Defense ing back to the early 1980s. FRA, our Robert Gates, while Army LtGen Kevin C. sister veterans service organizations Kiley, who commanded Walter Reed be- and congressional oversight commit- fore Weightman, is apparently remaining tees have addressed for years the chron- as Surgeon General of the Army. His tes- ic problems with care for our wounded timony before a number of hastily sched- service members and their continuing uled oversight hearings in both the House challenges associated with transitioning and Senate included profound apologies from DoD to the VA — which is termed for the lack of oversight which contrib- “seamless transition.” These personnel uted to the filthy quarters and adminis- deserve better and it remains to be seen trative hassles encountered by wounded what the impact of this firestorm of at- soldiers awaiting processing to care in the tention will be. Department of Veterans Affairs. Despite references to the National In addition to the hearings, a number Joe Barnes Naval Medical Center (NNMC) in me- of panels, commissions and study groups FRA’s National Executive Secretary dia coverage, we understand that care have been quickly announced — the most for wounded personnel at NNMC is ex- prominent being the bi-partisan Presidential Commission cellent, and that they are housed in a recently renovated to evaluate treatment of wounded personnel headed by for- “Wounded Warrior Barracks.” mer Senate Majority Leader and World War II veteran Bob Joe Barnes is FRA’s National Executive Secretary and Chairman of the National Dole, and former Secretary of Health and Human Services Committee on Legislative Service. A member of Navy Department Branch 181, he is Donna Shalala. also an advisor to the National Committees on Budget and Finance and The truly frustrating aspect of this spectacle is that Membership and Retention.

On & Off Capitol Hill continued from 9 FRA Endorses Senate Military Health Care Protection Act Senators Frank Lautenberg (N.J.) and Chuck Hagel (Neb.) have introduced “The Military Health Care Protection Act” (S. 604). NES Joe Barnes thanked the Senators for their leadership on this important issue at a press conference announcing the introduction. This legislation ensures Congressional oversight of Department of Defense (DoD) TRICARE fee increases and limits increases to no more than the annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) which is significantly less than the annual Federal Civilian Health Care Premium level in DoD’s plan. FRA believes DoD has not sufficiently investigated other options to make TRICARE more cost-efficient as alternatives to shifting costs to retiree beneficiaries under age 65. Barnes noted Senator Frank Lautenberg (N.J.) with “The promise of access to health care benefits is an integral and long recognized NES Joe Barnes at the press conference part of the government’s commitment to those who’ve served in the past – and announcing the introduction of “The Military Health Care Protection Act.” also to those now serving our Nation in uniform in time of war. DoD’s plan to drastically increase enrollment fees and pharmacy co-pays is not only viewed as another indicator of the government’s failure to honor past commitments to those who served full military careers – but also by today’s career enlisted force On & Off Capitol Hill is written by Joe Barnes, which views this as an erosion of earned benefits before they retire.” National Executive Secretary and John Davis, A similar bipartisan bill was recently reintroduced in the House by Director of Legislative Programs with input from Representatives Chet Edwards (Texas) and Walter Jones (N.C.). The “Military Bob Washington, Health Care Advisor and Director Retirees Health Care Protection Act” (H.R. 579), would prohibit the Department of Membership Development, Chris Slawinski, of Defense (DoD) from increasing TRICARE fees without approval from National Veterans Service Officer and Ed Dockery, Congress. Identical legislation (H.R. 4949) last year garnered 164 co-sponsors. Assistant Director of Legislative Programs. CARRIN_NA1006 8/28/06 9:26 AM Page 1

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25 FRA Tod a

BRANCH 268 y Oklahoma City, Okla. APRIL 2007 Shipmate Susan Hammond, JOC, USNR, prepares for transit from Kuwait to Afghanistan. As Susan is 2006-2007 Branch Secretary, the BRANCH 182 Branches past secretary Bethesda, Md. will cover the post. The branch recently held a very success- ful recruiting drive bringing in four new members and two transfers. Pictured is BRANCH 124 Shipmate Ron Kunz, Lakehurst, N.J. who is an active duty President Bill Anthony pres- Command Master ents 40 Years Continuous Chief and his new Service Awards to Shipmates recruit, Shipmate Casele and Case. Pictured Dan Severson. (left to right) are President Bill Anthony, Lawrence Casele, Chaplain John Case, and Secretary George Kollarik.

BRANCH 254 Myrtle Beach, S.C. Branch 254 was honored by the presence of PNP George Kaye and PRPSE Don Mucheck BRANCH 260 Kingman, Ariz. at a regular meeting 25 January 2007. Presenting 91-year old Shipmate William Jacobs with his 50-year continuous service pin and BRANCH 71 certificate is Mohave County Riverhead, N.Y. Branch 260 President Mike Reed. Vice President Branch 71, Arlene Alotkin recently presented To submit a photo for News From the Branches, please e-mail a photo as an Chaplain Donald T. attachment in jpeg format to [email protected] or mail a high-quality photograph Decker his 40-year to FRA Today, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Please include a brief pin and certificate. description of the photograph and include the names of those pictured. Laser prints and scanned copies of photographs cannot be accepted.

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28 29th Seabee Construction Battalion USS Bexar (APA/LPA-237) 2–5 August 2007, Alton, IL. Contact 20–23 September 2007, Tucson, AZ. Art Grotto, 11308 Moraine Dr., Unit E, Contact Steve Malloy, 1542 10th St., Palos Hill, IL 60465, 708-974-3961 or Bremerton, WA 98337, 360-373-1093 [email protected]. or [email protected]. APRIL 2007 y All Navy Net Tender/Layer Reunion USS Biloxi (CL-80) 2–4 October 2007, Buffalo, NY. Contact 18–20 May 2007, Pine Mountain, GA. FRA Tod a Eddie Pinson, 5290 So. Valley St., Contact Dave Smoot at 229-435-6400 Boise, ID 83709, 208-362-2659 or or [email protected]. [email protected]. USS Boxer (CV-21/CVA-21/CVS-21/LPH- American Amphibious Force Association 4/LHD-4) (AAFA) 3–6 October 2007, San Diego, CA. 25–30 September 2007, Evansville, IN. Contact Tom Lawrence at 717-428-9404. USS Gainard (DD-706) Contact Dave Miller at USS Brazos (AO-4) 16–20 September 2007, Norfolk, VA. [email protected] or Henry Ruiz 11–13 September 2007, Portland, OR. Contact Clarence Kirby, 270-586-6619, at [email protected]. Contact Jimmy Walters, 14595 SW 91st [email protected]. Aviation Logistics Marines Ave., Tigard, OR 97224, 503-639-5609. USS Grant County (LST-1174) 3–6 May 2007, Havelock, NC. Contact USS Brownson (DD-518/DD-868) 4–7 October 2007, Charleston, SC. Don Davis ALM, P.O. Box 293, 20–24 May 2007, So. Portland, ME. Contact William Richardson, 252-527- Havelock, NC 28532, 252-444-1777, Contact Guy Linscott at 207-899-2816 3523 or [email protected]. [email protected]. or [email protected]. USS Hanson (DD/DDR-832) Destroyer Leader Association USS Canberra (CA-70/CAG-2) 4–7 October 2007, Jacksonville, Fla. 4–7 October 2007, Charleston, S.C. 10–14 October 2007, Nashville, Tenn. Contact Roy Ridderbusch, 3910 Maple Contact Walter Alexander, 2311 Idavere Contact Ken Minick, P.O. Box 130, Road, Lynnwood, WA 98037, Rd., S.W., Roanoke, VA 24015-3903, Belpre, OH 45714, 740-423-8976 or 425-742-6591 or [email protected]. 540-345-5826 or [email protected]. [email protected]. USS Helena (CL-50, CA-75, SSN-725) USS Charles Lawrence (DE-53/APD-37) 27–30 August 2007, Las Vegas, NV. Marine Corps Lima Co. 3/1 Vietnam 5–8 September 2007, Philadelphia, Contact Bob Kern, 582 W. Clark St., 12–14 July 2007, New York City, NY. PA. Contact Henry Cranford, 2463 Bear Upland, CA 91784, 909-949-6559. Contact Ed Mclaughlin at 973-492-5706. Den Road, Frederick, MD 21701, 301- USS Iwo Jima Association, Inc. NAS Twin Cities 620-4045 or [email protected]. 10–14 October 2007, Chicago, IL. 25 August 2007, Minneapolis, MN. USS Chickasaw (ATF-83) Contact Robert G. McAnally, 152 Contact Jack Iverson at 952-322-1249 30–30 September 2007, San Antonio, Frissell St., Hampton, VA 23663, 866- or [email protected]. TX. Contact Richard Gibson at 704- 237-3137, [email protected]. USS Agawam (AOG-6) 243-2303 or [email protected]. USS John Land (AP-167) WWII 22–24 October 2007, New Orleans, LA. USS Coconino County (LST-603) 14–16 September 2007, Cleveland, Contact Dick Cypher, 2200 Berryhill Ct., 6–9 September 2007, Englewood, OH. OH. Contact Neal J. Huelsman, 5980 Edmond, OK 73034, 405-359-1513 or Contact Charles and Shirley Scott, 51 Marine Parkway, Apt. A109, Mentor-on- [email protected]. Terrace Park Blvd., Brookville, OH the-Lake, OH 44060-2885, 440-257- USS Angler (SS-240) 45309, [email protected]. 4809 or [email protected]. 30–3 October 2007, Myrtle Beach, S.C. USS Constant (MSO-427) USS Klondike (AD/AR-22) Contact Orem (Soupy) Campbell, 2107 5–7 October 2007, Albany, GA. Contact 21–24 September 2007, St. Louis, MO. Greenlaw Ct. Leesburg, FL 34788, Charles T. Eaton, 760 N. Tegner St., Contact John Cretal at 208-888-5418 352- 343-0806 or Lot #21, Wickenburg, AZ 85390, or [email protected]. [email protected]. 513-404-9635 or [email protected]. USS Laffey Association (DD-724, 459) USS Bearss (DD-654) USS Corregidor (TCVV-58) 7–11 October 2007, Virginia Beach, VA. 30–4 October 2007, Rapid City, SD. 2–5 September 2007, Chicago, Contact Sonny Walker, 2951 Colchester Contact Jerry Walkins, 2348 Saddle Dr., IL. Contact Joseph Bennett, 2464 Ct., Abingdon, MD 21009, 410-515- Allison Park, PA 15101, 412-487-6073. Sandrock Rd., Eden, NY 14057, 710- 3223, [email protected]. USS Belknap (DLG/CG26) 474-1674 or [email protected]. USS Lewis Hancock (DD-675) 18–20 October 2007, Norfolk, Va. USS Dayton (CL-105) 6–9 September 2007, Dayton, OH. Contact Chuck Taylor, 7207 La Granada 11–15 September 2007, Louisville, KY. Contact Patsy Iapalucci, 323 W. Third Houston, TX 77083, 281-988-7036 or Contact Bob Mac Donald, 69 Ferndale St., Greensburg, PA 15601, [email protected]. Lane, Palm Coast, FL 32137, 724-834-0370 or [email protected]. 386-246-3224, [email protected]. Reunions

29 USS Leyte (CV-32) 4–7 October 2007, Cleveland, Ohio. FRA Tod a Contact Le Grande W. Van Wagenen,

43 Frederick Place, Parlin, NJ 08859- y 1811, 732-727-5993 or APRIL 2007 [email protected]. USS Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729) 31–2 September 2007, Washington, DC. Contact Don Thompson, 301-292- 6717 or [email protected]. USS Montague (AKA-98) 27–30 September 2007, Savannah, GA. Contact F. C. “Fred” Machado, 5445 S. Blythe Ave., Fresno, CA 93706, New Video Release! Amphibious Craft: 559-266-2978. • USS Essex (CV-9), 1940s-1960s, 60 min. • LCS(L)(3) & LSMR, 50 min. • LSD, LCI(L), 45 min. Aircraft Carrier Action: • Landing Vehicle Track (LVT), 30 min. USS Ogden (LPD-5) • USS Roosevelt (CVB-42) 1940s-50s, 45 min. 27–30 September 2007, Duluth, MN. • LST Training In World War II, 80 min. • USS Roosevelt (CVB-42) 1960s, 90 min • LSTs In The Pacific: WWII, 65 min. Contact Jim Hunter, 757 NE Rogahn • USS Philippine Sea, (CV-47) 1940s-50s, 50 min. • LSTs In World War II: European Theater, 72 min. Street, Hillsboro, OR 97124, 503-640- • USS Wasp (CVA-18) 1944-1972, 60 min. • USS Hancock (CV-19) 1940-50s, 60 min. Ships Of The Fleet: 8000 or [email protected]. • USS Ranger (CVA-61) 1956-1983, 70 min. • Iowa Class Battleships, BB-61-64, 1940-50s, 120 min. • Heavy Cruisers: 1930s-1960s, 90 min. USS Perkins (DD-26, DD-377, DDR- • USS Randolph (CV-15) 1945-1967, 45 min. • USS Valley Forge (CV-45) 1949-1966, 60 min. • Light Cruisers Go To War: 1930s-1950s, 70 min. 877) Association • USS Shangri-La (CV-38) 1944-1968, 45 min. • Naval Gun On Iwo Jima & Okinawa, 40 min. 15–18 October 2007, Newport, RI. • USS America (CVA-66) 1965-1968, 60 min. • Underway Replenishment Ships 1940s-1960s, 100 min. Contact Edward J. Kaufmann, Jr., 615 • USS Midway (CVA-41) 1945-1970, 60 min. • Destroyer Escorts of the 1940s and 1950s, 50 min. • USS Constellation (CVA-64) 1964-1970, 45 min. • Destroyers & Their Sailors, WWI-Vietnam, 100 min. Glen Ave., Scotia, NY 12302-1109, • Shipboard Living 1940s-50s: Destroyers, 65 min. 518-372-4967 or • USS Enterprise (CVAN-65) 1960-1970, 90 min. • USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) 1965-1970, 50 min. • Minesweepers WWII, Korea & Vietnam, 100 min. [email protected]. • USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) 1961-1979, 75 min. • Suicide Attack In The Pacific In WWII, 93 min. • Navy Gun 1950s, Firing the Big Guns, 90 min. USS Robert L. Wilson (DD/DDE-847) • USS Boxer (CV-21) 1950s, 70 min. • USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14) in Vietnam, 30 min. • Damage Control 1960s & Abandon Ship WWII, 90 min. 20–22 September 2007, Las Vegas, • USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31) 1950s-60s, 45 min. • Fleet Ocean Tugboats 1960s, 40 min. NV. Contact Frank Esposito 95- • USS Franklin (CV-13) in WWII, 90 min. • Hospital Ship: USS Repose & Corpsmen, 50 min. • Operation Highjump 1946 (Antarctic Journey), 70 min. 270 Waikalani Dr., Apt. C-370, • USS Oriskany (CV-34) in Vietnam, 40 min. Mililani, HI 96789, 808-625-9497 or • USS Hornet (CV-8, CV-12) WWII, 60 min. Historic Boot Camp: • USS JF Kennedy (CVA-67) 1970s-’80s, 70 min. •Naval Training Center Great Lakes: 1940s, 45 min. [email protected]. • USS Independence (CVA-62) in Vietnam, 60 min. •Naval Training Center San Diego: 1940s, 50 min. •Naval Training Center San Diego: 1950s, 75 min. USS Sterett Association • USS Forrestal (CV-59) 1950s-60s, 90 min. • Carrier History: Langley To Enterprise and Hook Down, •N.T.C. San Diego: 1960s & Advanced Training, 60 min. 17–20 May 2007, Bath, ME. Contact Wheels Down, 90 min. •N.T.C. San Diego: 1970s & Advanced Training, 50 min. John King, 919 Dominion Reserve Dr., • Carrier Pilot Training Pensacola 1970s, 60 min. Silent Service & ASW Ops: McLean, VA 22102, 571-274-0121 or • Essex Class Carriers WWII (“Fighting Lady”), 60 min. • Tench Class Submarines, 75 min. [email protected]. Visit www.Sterett.net. • Carrier Action Off The Coast Of Korea, 75 min. • Submarine Warfare In WWII, 110 min. • Escort Carrier CVEs 1940s & 1950s, 75 min. • Submarine Service in the 1940s & 1950s, 104 min. USS Surfbird Association • Light Carriers: Heavy Hitters 1940s & 1950s, 70 min. • Submarine Training 1960s & Pride Runs Deep, 60 min. 25–27 September 2007, Nashville, TN. •Carrier Crashes & Landings 1940s-60s, 60 min. • FBM Submarines & Their Sailors, 85 min. Contact Larry or Dee McMaster, Navy Aircraft: • Polaris To Poseiden & Countdown to Trident, 60 min. 418 Wilpen Rd., Ligonier, PA 15658, •Navy Trainers: T-28, T-34 & T-2J 55 min. • ASW Operations In the 1960s & 1970s, 85 min. •A-4 Skyhawk: Attack Bomber, 55 min. • ASW Operations In The 1950s, 50 min. 724-238-3649 or •A-6 Intruder/Prowler & A-7 & A-7E Corsair, 75 min • USS Robert E. Lee & USS Lewis & Clark 1960s, 50 min. [email protected]. •F6F Hellcat Goes To War, 60 min. •F8U Crusader, Recognition & How To Fly, 60 min. For A Complete List Go To USS Trumpetfish (SS-425) •F9F Panther/Cougar & F4D Skyray, 65 min www.MILITARYVIDEO.com 30–4 November 2007, Kingsland, GA. •PBY Goes To War, 60 min. Contact Terry Trump, 404 Pinehurst, More Navy Titles: Ave., Summerville, SC 29483, • Armed Guard & Merchant Marine 843-873-9563 or WWII, 80 min. • Seabee & Marine Corps Ops Pacific $34.95 [email protected]. WWII, 70 min. USS Walton (DE-361) • Rigid Airship History & How To Fly A Blimp, 90 min. $29.95 27–29 September 2007, San Francisco, • King Neptune Ceremony 1930s-70s, CA. Contact Jerry Hudson, 4750 60 min. FRA Cord.480, Tebbetts, MO 65080, 573- • Small Boat Warfare Vietnam, 90 min. 291-1922 or [email protected]. • USS Hannibal Victory in WWII, 60 min. • Coast Guard In WWII, 45 min. continued on page 36 • MSTS Arctic Operations 1950s, 90 min. Looking for…

30 Shipmates from Recruit Company 487, DPC Tony L. Wright USN (Ret.) San Diego, December 1957–February Last know duty station FICEURLANT, 1958 Norfolk, VA (1980). Please contact Contact Jerry Rhodes, ENC, USN (Ret.) Chris Magee, DPC, USN, (Ret.) at at [email protected] or 1813 Southbay Drive, Pensacola, FL APRIL 2007 y 256-878-4959. 32506 or 850-453-4388 or [email protected] Shipmates who served at Gama dodo, FRA Tod a Milne Bay, New Guinea 1944-46 USS Coconino County LST-603 in Little Please contact [email protected]. Creek, VA Recommissioning Crew from June 1966 Shipmates from the VR Line NARTU at Contact [email protected] or 937- N.A.S. Alameda (1966-1971) Commander Robert Glenn (XO VR55 833-4486. If no answer, please leave from 1976-1978) us a message and name with phone number or e-mail address. Mailing ad- Kenneth R. Simpson Henry Steel AD1 dress is Charles Scott, 51 Terrace Park Last known address was Oceana Contact Franklin Vansant (The Moose) Boulevard, Brookville, OH 45309 Norfolk VA. VR 24 Contact Bill [email protected] or 360-299-4313 Matthews 904-472-8199 or 4204 or cell 425-330-3222. Looking for anyone who served Herschel Street PMB 110, Jacksonville, in the signal gang aboard the FL 32210 Looking for WO Donald F. Hough USS Ranger CVA-61, 1968-1970 Last served with him at NRTC in Please contact Gino/Lou Pariseau at Charlie Thomas, AB2 Chicago, 1969. Contact Jim Thomasson [email protected] or 603-669-1124 His wife is Jo. United States Navy, (Tommy) at 573-348 2836 or Fasron 200 (Special) Royal Air Force ATC Donald E. Dahl [email protected]. Flying Station, West Malling, Kent His wife is Rhonda. Last known England, 1961-1963. Contact Charles (Chuck) Allen or Allan DC1 USS duty station NAS Norfolk Va. 1953. [email protected]. Everett F. Larson DD-830, 1964-65 Please contact James A. Murray, 786 Went LDO (Mustang). Last contact, 1969, Southview Drive, Burlington, WA 98233 George A. Noggle Jr. he was LTJG, stationed at DC “A” School or [email protected] Last known duty station was executive officer on the USS Manitowoc LST T. I. Calif. WO Skip Wertz 1180. Contact Bill Caldwell, 4051 Contact: Max E. Schwald HTC (Ret.) Last know address was USS Howard W Harrington Court, Fort Collins, CO 155 Emerald Street, Sutherlin, OR, Gilmore, La Maddalena, Italy. Please 80525 or 970-226-3479 for possible 97479 or 541-459-2470. contact Ira Kennedy at 704-455-9570 reunion of the pre-comm and commis- or [email protected] MR2 Kathleen (Katie) Hoffman (her sioning crew. maiden name) Dr. Reichardt who served on the Daniel From New Hampshire, last known duty Joy 585 station was at Pearl Harbor in 1987, Call 718-449-7985 may be married now. Please contact The Best Book About the Navy You’ll Ever Read YN1 Michele Steinmetz at mstein- Ronald Fredrickson served on USS Fox CG-33 1987 [email protected], or P.O. Box 1055, Sinner, Sailor Last known command USS Pyro Indianapolis, IN 46206. Bremmington WA. Contact Michael A Memoir By T.R. Rhoads Available through all Bookstores SK Mike Sczewczyk Erickson USN (Ret.) 58190 Valley Vista ISBN: 1-4184-6155-5(SC) Last known duty station was Sima Pearl Lane, Anza, CA 92539 or 951-763-2026 Not Recommended for Children, Chaplains or Spouses Harbor. Contact SKCM (Ret.) Ollie M. or [email protected] Tucker 808-845-0240. Carol Ann Ross PUBLISH YOUR BOOK LCT Veterans from WWII, All Theaters of Joined the Navy after graduation from 80-year tradition of quality. Subsidy book Operation Wildwood High School in 1957. Contact publisher offers publishing services for books All veterans who served on LCTs during James S. Milles DPC (Ret.) millsjames@ of all types. For free Author’s Guide, write: World War II, in all theaters of opera- bellsouth.net or 352-473-9545 Dorrance - NA 701 Smithfield St., Third Floor, Pgh, PA 15222 tion, and their family members please Or Call 1-800-695-6599 contact Jane Siebenmorgen, 6094 ADR-1 or ADJ-1 (Possibly made Chief) Richard (Rick) Reichardt Larios Court, San Jose, CA 95123- Last known duty station was Quonset 3929, 408-225-5355; Pt R.I.in HS-9 in the 1960’s. Key West, [email protected] or FL, 1959-63, Quanset Pt R.I. 1963-66. [email protected] or Wife named Yvonne would like him to www.WW2LCT.org contact Grayden E. Carter, AE-1 USN (Ret.) 716 Larry Lane,Winder, GA 20680 or 678-425-1230 Scholarship Program fra membership benefits 31 Time is running out to apply for an FRA Scholarship for the 2007-2008 academic year. Applications must be postmarked by April 15, 2007. Call 1-800-FRA-1924 or FRA Tod a visit www.fra.org/scholarship for information and applications. y

FRA members in good standing, their children, grandchildren and spouses are APRIL 2007 eligible to apply. Selection is competitive, based on financial need, academic standing, character, and leadership qualities. The program has grown significantly over the past few years with nearly $100,000 awarded annually. The scholarship program is just one of the benefits of FRA membership!

The FRA Scholarship Colonel Hazel Elizabeth Benn Other scholarship programs related to Six awards of $5,000 each. u.S.M.C. Scholarship FRA membership include: $2,000 awards for unmarried depen- The Schuyler S. Pyle dent children of persons who have The LA FRA Scholarships sCHolarship served or are now serving in the Navy Applications for LA FRA scholarships One award of $5,000. as enlisted medical personnel assigned can be downloaded from www.fra. to and serving with the Marine Corps. org/scholarship. The Robert W. Nolan sCHolarship The Stanley A. Doran Memorial The Walter E. Beall Scholarship The Glenn F. Glezen sCHolarship For aeronautical engineering or avia- sCHolarship One award, amount varies. For a child tion-oriented degrees. Applications The Joseph R. Baranski of an FRA member in good standing. are available by writing to: Walter E. sCHolarship Beall Scholarship, 4911 Fennell Court, Three separate awards of $5,000 each. Corporate Sponsored Suffolk, VA 23435, Attn: W. R. Holcombe Preference given to applicants enrolled sCHolarships or e-mail [email protected]. post-graduate studies. Announced annually. TAPS In Memoriam 32 NAME BRANCH NAME BRANCH Adams, Alwin N., ADRC 333 Dobbins, Herbert L., ABH1 022 Adams, Jimmie D., UTCS 096 Dodson, J. D., DSCM MAL Allen, James R., ETCM 261 Duhon, Ruster J., HT1 159

APRIL 2007 Amodeo, Vincent J., HMC 237 Duke, John R., OS1 141 y Anders, John J., LT USNR MAL Anderson, Richard L., HTC 296 Earl, Leslie D., CS1 043

FRA Tod a Appel, George W., SGTMAJ MAL Eaton, Albert L., ADJ1 MAL Arch, Francis J., CSC 290 Eichler, Albert L., HMC 175 Armstrong, John, CPO USN 069 Everding, George A., LCDR USN 267 Ayers, Wesley I., Jr., CS1 MAL Farmer, Hilda H., SSGT MAL Baker, James D., SKC 136 Federe, Ceferino, SD1 084 Baran, John, GYSGT 208 Felarca, Wilson M., SD1 084 NAME BRANCH Barby, Peter, CWO USN 147 Fillyaw, James H., PO1 USN 070 Barkhuff, Edwin D., BT1 298 Fisher, Wayne, RMC 093 Hughes, Irving E., AMH1 005 Barnes, Barry G., HM2 374 Floyd, George H., RET USNR MAL Hull, Leondus, EO1 MAL Beaver, Donald Y., MSGT 317 Foley, John H., LT USN 014 Hurt, Oscar M., PO2 USN 043 Beutler, Frank A., MSGT 175 Force, Eldon R., GMGC MAL Bird, Charles E., CWO2 USN 180 Frigerio, Martin C., Jr., PNC 178 Ingle, John, E-9 RET MAL Blume, Frederick A., YNC MAL Frye, Glenn E., ENC MAL Ireland, Ellis E., HTCS 141 Boisclair, Arthur L., RM1 072 Iverson, Olaf R., ADJC 053 Boldyga, Robert C., FCC MAL Gale, Roy, ADJC 009 Bowen, Thomas H., BUC 120 Gammon, John D., LT USN 047 Jenkins, Marion W., ADRC 335 Bower, William R., CWO2 USN 019 Garrison, Richard E., GYSGT 162 Jennings, Jerome F., BMC 197 Bransford, C. L., HMC 182 Gartner, Walter, ENC 043 Jensen, Jerry J., TMCS MAL Brendle, Clyde E., HTC MAL Gill, James J., LCDR USN 008 Johnson, Archie R., CS1 042 Broadhead, Robert P., MSGT 208 Goodman, Jay W., CSC MAL Johnson, Horace A., CWO4 USN 126 Broedel, Francis L., CWO4 USN 109 Gordon, Duane T., ADR1 216 Johnson, James R., ADC MAL Bruce, Alvin D., CTC 022 Gores, Frank Christopher, Jr., CTR1 136 PRPNC Bryan, H. Gene, DCCs 4 Gravat, Walter D., ENC MAL Kidder, Frederic H., CSCM(SS) MAL Burke, John J., CTCS 033 Gray, Jack, ADJC 363 Kittel, Rudolph H., CPO USN 361 Burklund, Bernard B., EMC MAL Gray, Robert C., PH1 300 Kluttz, Farrell L., FTC MAL Burks, William J., CPO USN 032 Green, William D., PH1 072 Knoepfler, Howard J., STSC(SS) 046 Griess, Armen W., CSCS 175 Kyle, Walter E., HMC 339 Campano, Marcelo M., DM1 101 Grilley, John L., EMC 230 Carolino, Jesus P., CPO USN 048 Grimes, William C., HMCS 264 Laidlaw, Walter A., GMCS MAL Caruso, Roseanne, PHCS 006 Guidry, Barney W., YNC MAL Larsen, Calvin L., LCDR USN 174 Cassell, Elbert L., SGTMAJ 203 Lashmit, William H., AMH1 MAL Cavanaugh, John P., LCDR USN 024 Haines, William A., AMS1 MAL Lazorchak, Stephen, BUC 124 Chaney, David F., AFCM MAL Hallock, Lawrence H., BT1 061 Lee, Nellie D., HM1 092 Cisowski, Chester, ATC MAL Handley, Grover L., HTC 009 Lewis, Alvin D., CS1 022 Clark, William H., CS2 147 Hannigan, James E., HTCM MAL Lewis, Robert, Jr., PO3 USN 024 Clarke, Ronald P., AK1 093 Hanson, Donald J., RMC MAL Locke, Robert, PO1 USN MAL Claugherty, John K., AMHC 093 Hardin, Millard, CWO3 USN 126 Lomis, Norman, Jr., AT1 MAL Collier, Stanley W., CS1 166 Harr, Frederick E., SKCS 024 Lott, Raymond E., ADJC MAL Comfort, David, AGC 267 Hart, Harold Joseph, Jr., CAPT USN 141 Lowey, Michael E., LCDR USN 022 Cordoni, Earl C., SGT 147 Healey, William H., Jr., MUC 024 Luczak, Stanislaus A., AE1 261 Cormier, Armand V., CS1 MAL Heiland, John H., Jr., QMCS 050 Cruser, Harold E., BTC MAL Hellen, David W., E-3 USN 102 Mahanke, Francis C., CPO USN 147 Cygirt, Joseph P., MMC MAL Hendrickson, Algene R., EMCS 180 Marshuetz, Adolph E., ENC(SS) MAL Hester, Clifford F., ATC 018 Marth, Foster A., GMCM 023 Darling, Lee, EN2 050 Hewitt, Ronald, MM1 096 Martin, Charles E., SSGT 096 Davis, Alvin R., AT1 051 Higgins, Elmer, AQC 113 Masur, Louis C., ACC MAL Davis, Russell A., LTJG USN 018 Hilberry, John R., MSGT MAL Matson, Daniel J., RMC MAL Deane, Roland M., TN 219 Hoffman, George E., SH2 038 Mayfield, Carl J., ADJ1 110 Degroff, David L., MSGT MAL Hoffman, Ralph A., RMC MAL Maynard, Ernest N., ADRC(AC) 047 Dewitt, Jasper O., PO1 USMCR MAL Holmes, Richard G., POC USN 069 McCall, Earl, HTC(SW) MAL Di Cerbo, John, CPO USN MAL Hopper, Gary J., POCS USN MAL McCullough, Robert E., GMGC MAL Dinnan, Raymond W., Jr., MGYSGT 175 Hornung, Clifford A., AQCS 097 McDonald, John E., Jr., PO1 USN MAL Dixon, Forrest J., BMCS MAL Hostetler, Charles R., MS1(SS) 228 McDonald, Robert D., YN1 MAL In Memoriam TAPS 33 NAME BRANCH NAME BRANCH NAME BRANCH FRA Tod a McIlveen, William H., BM1 289 Rodriguez, John A., SGTMAJ 208 Wilbanks, John L., EMCS MAL McKee, Carl Ernest, AEC 022 Roberts, Jim T., III, CSC 047 Wilde, John H., CWO2 USMC 147

McMullen, John, Jr., QM1 MAL Rogers, Floyd P., ENCS 043 Williams, George W., BM1 USN 009 y APRIL 2007 McMullen, John P., AD1 147 Rogers, Gordon E., HT1 MAL Willoughby, Archie, AMS1 022 Meadows, William E., SGTMAJ 219 Rogers, Jackie, UTC 042 Wilson, Joseph T., YNCS 052 Melby, Elmer G., CPO USN 374 Rose, Claude E., AOC MAL Wilson, Kenneth R., RMC 101 Mesler, Rodger J., QMCS(SS) MAL Rott, Paul F., NC1(SS) 162 Winslow, Robert R., ETCS MAL Messer, James C., AKCS 158 Rowe, John W., GYSGT MAL Wood, Thomas G., SH1 099 Mette, Donald J., EMCM 041 Rowe, Roy E., DTC 106 Miller, Norman F., EM1 095 Rozul, Pablo P., CS2 MAL Young, Ronald A., YNC 046 Milleson, Boyd E., GMG2 315 Ruble, Estern H., HMC MAL Mills, Everett L., AMSC 163 Rumbaugh, Frank W., TMC(SS) 163 Mood, Charles G., CAPT USMC 051 Ryan, Orrin P., BMC 053 Names in blue indicate 50 year continuous members. Moore, Elvious E., CSC 101 Names in bold indicate a Past National Officer. Moore, Walter B., ADCS 147 Salter, Mondell T., DCC 003 Moore, William S., DCCS 219 Sandefur, Windel L., BM1 MAL Morris, Richard, PO1 USN MAL Santos, Wilfredo G., PO1 USN 070 Munro, Wayne A., CPO USN 238 Schaller, Leo V., AFCM MAL Scott, Ronald R., GYSGT 246 Nash, Michael P., CEC 024 Selberg, Leroy P., LT USN 038 The toll of the ship’s bell Nelson, Terry D., PCC MAL Semmel, Clarence H., MSC 267 Nichols, Donald L., MAJ USMC 024 Shaw, Howard S., ADRC 282 reminds us of the reverence Nichols, James L., YNC 268 Sheppard, Richard L., ADR1 159 Niedentohl, Merle E., MMCM 219 Skilling, William W., HMC 198 we owe to our departed Shipmates Norton, Melvin D., BMC 317 Skov, Harold J., HMC 008 Smart, John W., AM1 MAL O’Hara, Dennis F., MMCS 210 Smith, George W., PO2 USN 320 and to those who guard the honor Oley, Stanley T., CWO2 USN MAL Snavley, Ralph R., TMC 327 Spencer, Paul R., FTM1 004 of our country Page, Bennie C., HMCS 009 Stevens, Richard W., YNC MAL Paglierni, Aldo W., CM1 050 Sugrue, Robert J., SH1 MAL Panyon, Peter P., Sr., LT USN 024 Sullivan, Robert W., RMC 181 upon the sea, Parrish, Johnny, RMCM(SS) MAL Paxton, Mack, SH2 023 Taylor, Robert R., SCPO USN 250 under the sea, Payne, Calvin A., Jr., ETC 248 Tessaro, Jerry D., CSC 113 Pemberton, Buford E., POC USN 300 Thennis, Robert L., SN USN MAL in the air Perillo, Michael L., BMC MAL Thomas, Claud A., BTCS 043 Peters, Paul L., BMC 071 Thompson, Felix P., BMC 022 Phillips, Charles D., AO2 061 Thrasher, Mack I., PO1 USN 106 and upon foreign soil. Piercy, Frank, SD1 040 Tomlin, Leonard V., MGYSGT 009 Pracht, Walter H., AFCM 042 Tuazon, Julian L., YN1 101 Let it be a reminder Price, Earl S., EN1 106 Price, Jaroam, E-6 USN 004 Ughetto, Richard A., SHC 099 of the faith they Proctor, Charles F., SKC 070 Urban, E. J., SGTMAJ 117

Race, Alden A., AOC MAL VanHise, Charles A., RM1 009 confide in us. Ramsey, Wiley A., GMG1 MAL Vedder, William F., EM1 029 Rasmussen, Richard C., HMC MAL Let us who gather here Rawls, Thadeous, BT1 MAL Walters, Daniel L., ENC MAL Razinha, Francis A., EMC(SS) MAL Walton, Fred A., MMC 043 Rearden, Jesse O., YNCS 234 Ward, Thomas E., SCPO USN 182 not forget our obligations Reed, Robert E., PO2 USN MAL Wasson, Harold L., PHCS 099 Reid, Allen D., EOC MAL Watt, Dan R., SKC MAL and in silence Reihing, Edward J., AMSC 124 Weirick, Thomas G., SK2 288 Rennebu, John L., MSGT 175 West, Paul Harden, AEC 126 breathe a prayer Repp, Robert W., LCDR USN 147 Westover, Marvin R., RDC 055 Richards, Floyd G., CS1 327 Wheeler, Melvin M., SO1 267 Richardson, Claudie L., E-7 USN 110 White, Lester L., BM2 377 for our absent Shipmates. Riek, Anthony C., AWCM 091 White, Norvell C., BM1 267 Rios, Leocadio A., GMG1 MAL Whitfield, Tommy B., PCC MAL MP24:33:57002/61/2fdp.7040FAAN

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36 A Message from National President Sandra Robbins

As we see and hear on a daily basis, our Military personnel are serving in harm’s way. Even with all the obstacles they face they continue to make all Americans APRIL 2007

y proud as they fight to ensure our freedom as well as for those who have not had freedom such as ours. This is one of the reasons I am so committed to the National President’s Project “USO”. The USO has diversified and changed over FRA Tod a the past 65 years but its mission remains unchanged: to bring a touch of home

to our men and women in uniform, until every one comes home. The USO has Photo by: Vince Cuthie consistently delivered its special brand of comfort, morale and recreational ser- Sandra robbins vices to the military. For over 65 years, the USO has been there for our military. National President LA FRA Please help us as an organization to show our support for the efforts put forth by the USO. Please donate by sending your check to LA FRA National Financial Secretary, 38 Shannonmarie Way, N. Easton, MA. 02356. Make the check payable to Ladies Auxiliary FRA denoting in the memo section “Nat. President’s Proj.”. Your donation is greatly appreciated, as it will be used for the following USO project areas: “Operation Phone Home”, “Care Packages from Home” and “Gifts Reunions from the Homeland”. continued from 29 It is hard to believe that it is already April 2007, which means it is once again USS Warrington (DD-843)/U.S. Navy time to get ready for the Annual Pilgrimage to Arlington National Cemetery. 2–6 May 2007, Washington, DC. This year the Pilgrimage hotel headquarters will be the Sheraton National Hotel Contact Stan Prager at 916-791-6700 which is located at 900 Orme Street, Arlington, Virginia. Reservations may be or [email protected]. made by calling 1-703-521-1900. Room rates are $125.00 plus tax per night. Bus USS White Plains (AFS-4) transportation will be provided and will leave the Sheraton National at 0900 10–17 June 2007, Pearl Harbor, hours on Sunday, May 20th. The ceremony at the Mast of the USS Maine is slated Hawaii. Contact Stephen Edmison, PO for 1000 hours with a procession over to the Tomb of the Unknown. Visualize ev- Box 233, Roy, UT, 84067, 801-985- eryone lined up, dressed in white with their hats and gloves filing down the steps 3665. from the Mast of the Maine over to the Tomb of the Unknown for placement of USS Westchester County (LST-1167) a wreath by the National President. It is a truly awesome sight and one for which 14–17 June 2007, Branson, MO. others who happen to be in the vicinity that day, stop and take note of. This is a Contact Al Wittich at 253-922-9357 or great opportunity for us to be seen. [email protected]. Hopefully many of you will be attending the 80th FRA and 75th LA FRA National Convention being held in Corpus Christi, TX. October 30–November 4, VJ/VU/VC-3 2007. Reservations can be made by calling the Omni Bayfront Tower, 900 North 3–5 October 2007, San Antonio, Texas. Shoreline Blvd., Central Reservations at 1-800-843-6664. Be sure to mention Contact Art Smoak, 7360 Abbeyville Dr., you are with the Fleet Reserve Association and Ladies Auxiliary, Incorporated, Las Vegas, NV 89123, 702-897-4433 or National Conventions. FRA National President Jerry Sweeney and I were privi- [email protected]. leged to meet with the Convention Chairpersons, NES Joe Barnes and the Hotel VP-4/All Hands staff in January and we all feel that accommodations, amenities and eating facili- 12–14 October 2007, San Diego, CA. ties were favorable and look forward to Convention. Contact Bill Broadwell at 619-713-2321. We are proud to “Welcome Aboard” four (4) new Units: Unit 11 Fort Worth, Texas, Unit 5 Norfolk, Va., Unit 15 Walhalla, S.C., and Unit 183 Interlachen, Fla. VR-21/U.S. Navy What continues to amaze me is diversity of our organization. There are so many 25–29 July 2007, Carson City, NV. talented members. The variety and amount of activities done by our members Contact Noel Groff at 775-883-7345. at the Unit level and as Members-At-Large is so awe inspiring. Thank you for practicing the three cardinal principles of the LA FRA: LOYALTY, PROTECTION VR-52 Det.Detroit/VR-62 Detroit and SERVICE. (NAF Detroit) 13–15 July 2007, Port Clinton, OH. Contact Bill Borrusc, 8903 York Dr., Fran Hoadley is the editor of LA FRA News and the FRA Today Liaison. Hudson, FL 34667, 727-862-6343 or [email protected].

Members can post reunions online at www.fra.org, submit to [email protected] or mail to: FRA Reunions, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314. C4-Davidlaw ad n5297.qxd-AP 12/8/04 7:57 AM Page 1

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PERIODICAL Postmaster: Send address changes to: Member services FRA 125 N. West Street Alexandria, VA 22314-2754