5 Message from NP Gilmartin 14 FRA 2011 Legislative Accomplishments 29 United States Bill of Rights MESOTHELIOMA

SEQUES TRATION BUDGET T IME BOMB IS T ICKING 7 JANUARY 2012

Page 18

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Volume 91 Number 1 1 Featured 18 FRA TOD A Y JANUARY 2012 18 SOUTHERN EXPOSURE Service members often share common experiences and fond memories of their tours together. A nuclear power plant operated at McMurdo Station is being implicated in dozens of cases of cancer and those who served at the Antarctic research facility fear they share another common bond — radiation exposure. Departments 2 COMMUNICATIONS

5 FROM THE BRIDGE Message from NP Gilmartin

6 SHIPMATE FORUM

8 ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL 29 2011 Accomplishments, 2012 Agenda

16 MEMBERSHIP MATTERS Looking for Shipmate Input

29 HISTORY & HERITAGE The U.S. Bill of Rights

30 MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

31 LOOKING FOR… / REUNIONS

32 NEWS FROM THE BRANCHES

34 TAPS

36 FRA AUXILIARY NEWS Message from New England Regional President Debra Barnes

LOYALTY, PROTECTION AND SERVICE FRA IS A CONGRESSIONALLY CHARTERED, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION ADVOCATING FOR CURRENT AND FORMER ENLISTED MEMBERS OF THE ON THE COVER U.S. NAVY, MARINE CORPS AND COAST GUARD ON CAPITOL HILL. FOR Operation Deep Freeze was the military contingent MORE INFORMATION ON THE BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP, PLEASE VISIT that supported scientists conducting polar research WWW.FRA.ORG OR CALL 800-FRA-1924. at McMurdo Station. COMMUNICATIONS

2 NATIONAL OFFICERS/BOARD OF DIRECTORS National President Jeffrey A. Gilmartin,Potomac Region Branch 207 National Vice President Mark A. Kilgore, Pensacola Branch 22 National Executive Dir. Joseph L. Barnes, Navy Department Branch 181 Remembering and Finance Ofﬁcer Paul Rigby, Honorary Member JANUARY 2012 JANUARY

Y Junior PNP James W. Scarbro, Chesapeake Branch 40 A Looking Ahead Eileen Murphy National Parliamentarian PRPNE William E. Starkey, Jr., South Jersey JANUARY IS ALWAYS a time to re!ect on the past year and look ahead Branch 57 FRA TOD to what is coming. National President Je" Gilmartin is featured in a National Chaplain Katherine Grey, Potomac Region Branch 207 column this month (From the Bridge, page 5) to share his vision for REGIONAL PRESIDENTS the coming year. New England Philip A. Justin, Quonset Davisville, Branch 42 As this issue goes to press, NP Gilmartin has just returned from Northeast David Munday III, Lakehurst Branch 124 Hawaii where he attended events honoring those lost and injured in East Coast Darrell F. McKinley, Jr., Elizabeth City Branch 293 the attacks on Pearl Harbor and Ewa Field 70 years ago. National Vice Southeast Frederick Bolz, Low Country Branch 269 President Mark Kilgore also attended an event sponsored by FRA North Central Charles “Chuck” Neureuther, Wolverine Branch 298 Branches 77 and 163 at the University of Arizona on December 4 and South Central Arthur R. McAvoy, Lone Star Branch 11 he and his wife, FRA Auxiliary Regional Vice President Southeast Babe Southwest Stanley J. Lewandowski, Imperial Beach Kilgore, attended FRA Branch 290’s Annual Pearl Harbor Memorial Branch 289 Ceremony on board the USS Underwood (FFG 36) in Atlantic Beach, West Coast Richard J. Fetro, Santa Clara Valley Branch 101 Florida on December 7. Multiple other FRA branches around the Northwest Pete Lazzaretti, Mt. Rainier Branch 104 country also hosted events to honor the anniversary, including Triangle Branch 182 that sponsored a ceremony at the Walter Reed National ACTIVE DUTY ADVISORY COUNCIL Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. We are still receiving photos Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Rick West of these events and we will compile the photos and post them on our Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Michael Barrett Facebook page (www.fra.org/# is a shortcut to it). We will run as many Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt as we can in the February issue of FRA Today. If your branch held an event, please forward your pictures to my attention at: RESERVE ADVISORY COUNCIL FRA Today Force Master Chief of the Navy Reserve Chris Wheeler 125 N. West St. USMC Reserve Force Sergeant Major James Booker Alexandria, VA 22314 Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve Force In our On & O" Capitol Hill section this month, you will $nd a Mark Allen synopsis of some of FRA’s legislative accomplishments for 2011 (page 14) and the aggressive and comprehensive legislative agenda for 2012 FRA TODAY MAGAZINE (page 9). Shipmates play an important role in FRA’s legislative work Publisher FRA through writing, emailing and calling members of Congress. Please be National Executive Director Joseph L. Barnes involved by using the Action Center on www.fra.org and/or requesting Managing Editor Eileen Murphy Communicate With Your Elected O!cials, the free guide FRA o"ers that Contributing Editor Lauren Armstrong

provides the contact information for members of Congress as well as Design and Art Direction FIREBRAND, Alexandria, VA www.ﬁrebrandstudios.com detailing who sits on the key committees related to our legislative work. Design Director Scott Rodgerson Please read the summary of what the Action Center has accomplished Production Manager Sandy Jones in 2011 on page 8, and call 1-800-FRA-1924 to request your copy of Communicate With Your Elected O!cials today! FRA TODAY (ISSN 0028-1409) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY FRA, 125 N. WEST ST., ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314-2754. A MEMBER’S SUBSCRIPTION IS COVERED BY THE MEMBER’S ANNUAL DUES. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT ALEXANDRIA, VA AND ADDITIONAL OFFICES. PUBLICATION OF NON-SPONSORED ADVERTISING IN FRA TODAY DOES NOT Correction CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT BY THE FRA OR ITS REPRESENTATIVES. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: MEMBER SERVICES, FRA, 125 N. WEST ST., ALEXANDRIA, On page 32 in the December FRA Today we posted the photos of the National VA 22314-2754. FRA TODAY IS PUBLISHED IN THE INTERESTS OF ALL CURRENT AND FORMER ENLISTED PERSONNEL OF THE U.S. NAVY, MARINE CORPS, AND COAST GUARD. Ofﬁcers. NVP Mark Kilgore was listed as being a member of Branch 61, which ELIGIBLE NON-MEMBERS ARE NOT ENTITLED TO SUBSCRIPTION RATES. ESTABLISHED is in Chula Vista, California. Although that was true many years ago, he is very 1 NOVEMBER 1923. TITLE REGISTERED WITH U.S. PATENT OFFICE. much a part of Branch 22 in Pensacola, Florida and serves as their secretary. FRA ADMINISTRATIVE HEADQUARTERS: 125 N. WEST ST., ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314-2754 PHONE: 703-683-1400, 800-FRA-1924 s FAX: 703-549-6610 s E-MAIL: [email protected] We apologize for the error. WWW. FRA.ORG

VOLUME 91 NUMBER 1

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5 FRA TOD A Y JANUARY 2012

Jeffrey A. Gilmartin A YEAR IS A brief amount of time and I need to be shared within your com- and looking for alternatives to U.S. hit the ground running during the last munity. Your branch should be known Savings Bonds as awards for the weeks of the 2011 year by conducting as a spearhead of community work, Americanism Essay Contest. the o%cial site inspection of the Silver not just contributors to others’ proj- During my tenure as National Legacy Hotel and Casino in Reno, ects. Public relations start at home. President, I will be looking closely at Nevada, the site for the 2012 FRA Shipmates: A successful ship- the Association’s budget. Our National National Convention. I also visited mate is a well-prepared shipmate. Headquarters sta" and others have 15 branches over three regions before Organizations such as the National been diligent in researching and re- embarking on other priorities. Association of Parliamentarians and alizing substantial cost-saving mea- As always, membership is a high Toastmasters can be helpful in pre- sures over the past several years, by priority. Decreasing numbers in our paring and presenting concise, e"ec- implementing new technologies and membership directly impact our e"ective appeals for membership. Be well processes, renegotiating contracts and tiveness on Capitol Hill. While current versed in FRA’s Bylaws and Standing other e%ciencies. Unfortunately, we philosophy suggests an increase in continue to run a de$cit budget. &e membership retention, along with our majority of regions boast $ve-digit current recruitment rates, will stabi- “[We] must give the treasuries and should consider as- lize our !agging numbers, the solution suming the costs of local area events does not reside in Headquarters, nor newly recruited something such as Sailor of the Year programs with the National Standing Committee and Pearl Harbor Day memorials. I on Membership and Retention. &e to prove the time they will be working with the Headquarters solution to low membership numbers Team to further examine existing and lies with the branches. With a realis- participate in meetings expiring contracts. A special commit- tic target demographic of between 40 tee has also been appointed to exam- and 60 years of age, the branches must and events is worthwhile ine our Headquarters’ Information give the newly recruited something Technology assets and make recom- to prove the time they participate in and the money they mendations to the National Board of branch meetings and events is worth- Directors to better leverage innova- while and the money they spend on spend on annual dues tions realized by the commercial sec- annual dues is a worthy investment. tor. &e National Executive Director Branch meetings should be meaning- is a worthy investment.” has requested the committee’s scope ful, but they should also be fun. be expanded to include audio-visual I’ve either seen or heard of great equipment, as much of it is either dat- results coming from Ogden, Utah; ed or non-functional. Fort Worth, Texas; Cheyenne, Wyo; Rules. Becoming an e"ective public A'er the earthquake in Virginia Goose Creek, S.C.; Poway, Calif.; and speaker is primarily a matter of prac- last year, it was discovered our Wilmington, N.C. None of these loca- tice and being knowledgeable about Headquarters building sustained tions have heavy !eet concentrations, your subject matter. Polish isn’t neces- damage that wasn’t initially visible and but their success is due to the appli- sary, but being genuine and sincere is not covered by insurance. Options to cation of innovative ideas and lots of crucial. Successful recruiting is con- address some long-standing plumbing enthusiasm. veying to your prospect “what’s in it issues within the building are also be- Branches: Brag about your suc- for them.” If you can, also volunteer to ing explored and I believe we will need cesses. When your regional president serve on regional and national stand- to replenish the Capital Improvement comes to visit, tell him of your suc- ing committees. Suggest ways for the Reserve to address proper repair and cesses and he’ll carry the news to other committees to become fresh and ap- maintenance of our building. branches. What works for one branch pealing, including participation in I look forward to serving the may not work for yours, but enthusias- events such as Autism walks or spon- Association and shipmates during the tic shipmates and working committees soring Young Marines detachments, coming year. SHIPMATE FORUM

6 Making Military and Civilian Beneﬁts More Fairness for Former Spouses? Similar I’m writing this in response to Diane To have military and civilian retirement on a similar basis Rojan’s submission concerning bene$ts is ridiculous unless [military personnel are authorized to] for second wives. During my divorce, operate a 40-hour workweek and receive similar active duty my lawyer and I strenuously tried to JANUARY 2012 JANUARY Y

A pay PLUS overtime. Please pass that on to our elected of- keep my SBP and retired pay from be- $cials who have never served in uniform. ing handed over to my ex-wife. She felt

FRA TOD C.E. Fleury that as long as she was married to me during the last year and a half of my Honoring Master Chief Der-Vartanian career, she was entitled to it all. &e &e story of the passing of the $rst fe- judge in my case was not a military-friendly judge. He was male E-9 (October 2011 FRA Today) known, in the past, to award all entitlements to the spouse was interesting and a nice thing for the just because he could. He awarded my ex-wife my SBP, even FRA to do. However, the woman’s name though her tenure in my career was only 18 months. &is was spelled two di"erent ways in the meant money she did not earn would be hers if I died before article. I think the editor should rerun her. My present wife would get nothing until my ex expires. this article with corrections and make &e laws do not protect the military person in divorce an apology to the family. court. My ex did not get my retirement pay because of fed- Jan Van Horn eral law and [our short marriage during] my military career. What the judge DID do was de$ne my retirement pay as in- FRA Response: Retired Master Chief Petty O!cer Anna come and awarded her the equivalent of half my retirement Der-Vartanian died August 4, 2011, at the age of 90 and was pay as spousal support until her death. &is judge still sits laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National behind the bench issuing biased justice. Cemetery on November 29th. Hundreds of Sailors, family, Dallas B. “Skip” Clark and friends were at the ceremony to honor the "rst female master chief. We apologize for the error in our original tribute FRA in Action to Master Chief Der-Vartanian. I had the pleasure of watching our legislative representative, John Davis, testify on Capitol Hill about military compen- Not Everything’s Covered sation/retirement on C-SPAN. John was the only one of the Shipmate Swinford’s note indicated he was reimbursed a'er four testifying witnesses to bring up the aspect of VA ben- 6 months for lab tests. I wasn’t so fortunate. During my pre- e$ts for those service members who don’t make the mili- op lab tests prior to surgery for cancer, my doctor ordered tary a career for personal reasons or because of reduction blood tests for coagulation studies, i.e., PT & PTT. &ese in forces reasons. tests are always ordered before major surgery. &e tests were He is to be commended for that testimony; however, done on outpatient basis, prior to being admitted to the I kept hoping he would enumerate those bene$ts for the hospital. Medicare denied payment saying they were not three representatives that kept hammering on the “poor” necessary; I had no history of a blood disorder. Tricare For service members that don’t complete the 20 years of active Life said that when Medicare denies coverage, so do they, duty to qualify for retirement pay. and I had to pay $89.59. I appealed twice and was denied An honorable discharge, no matter the length of ser- twice even though I had a letter from my surgeon indicat- vice, quali$es the service member for VA bene$ts that in- ing the need. I could not appeal a third time because the clude education assistance, housing assistance, and medical amount was less than $150 (Medicare rule). bene$ts. &e REDUX program in the early ‘90s o"ered me More recently I had to pay for a lab test for my wife be- $15,000 a year for 40 years plus VA bene$ts. If I was single, cause Tricare For Life said she hasn’t paid her deductible either of those two choices would have been viable options, amount yet. Tricare for Life and Medicare paid nothing for however, my wife sacri$ced as much as I during our mili- this test. tary career and neither included her. I chose to stay for the I was told when I joined the Navy that if I stayed 20 years, full 20 because of her. my wife and I would have free medical care the rest of our Fred DuPont lives. Now I pay $96.50/month and my wife pays $110.50/ month for Medicare premiums plus whatever Medicare and Submissions: Send Shipmate Forum letters to: Editor, FRA Today, 125 N. West St. Tricare For Life doesn’t cover. And now they want to raise 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 the premiums and the deductions. Tricare Prime was less letters for publication. Letters published in Shipmate Forum reflect the opinions and expensive and the coverage was better. views of FRA members. They do not necessarily reflect the official position of FRA as Robert Gaupel a whole. FRA is not responsible for the accuracy of letter content.

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8 JANUARY 2012 JANUARY Y A Sequestration Budget Time Bomb is Ticking John Davis THE JOINT SELECT COMMITTEE on De$cit Reduction (Super occur for more than a year a'er the Super Committee FRA TOD Committee) failed to agree on $1.2 trillion in budget cuts deadline. Delaying the cuts until 2013 gives Congress time before the November 23, 2011 deadline and, as a result, to possibly avoid the cuts by authorizing reductions in automatic budget cuts (sequestration) are slated to take various programs through the regular legislative process. e"ect beginning January 1, 2013. &ese programmed re- Finding $1.2 trillion in budget savings over the next 10 ductions will come equally from defense and non-defense years won’t be easy and threats to military pay and bene$ts accounts. for those serving and who have served will continue. As this issue of FRA Today goes to press, 2012 begins FRA is closely monitoring the budget process and with familiar and ongoing threats to military bene$ts. will keep shipmates informed through FRA Today and &e threat of sequestration apparently didn’t strike fear in NewsBytes, FRA’s free weekly e-mail update. To subscribe, the hearts of legislators, because the automatic cuts won’t e-mail [email protected].

Action Center in 2011 Senate Passes Defense Authorization Bill Calendar year 2011 has been a ban- &e Senate debated !oor amendments to its version of the FY 2012 National ner year for shipmates using the Defense Authorization Act (S. 1867) before passing the bill by a vote of 93-7 in early December. &e Senate-passed bill: FRA Action Center at www.fra.org. t Authorizes the Department of Defense (DoD) to increase TRICARE Prime en- Shipmates’ usage of this free service rollment fees by $2.50 per month for individuals and $5.00 per month for families; has increased substantially this year t Links future TRICARE Prime fee increases to the percentage increase (based and included nearly 42,000 messages on the annual in!ation rate) applied to military retired pay; to members of Congress since January t Authorizes pharmacy co-pay increases; t Requires newly enrolled U.S. Family Health Plan (USFHP) bene$ciaries to 1, 2011. (A total of 24,161 messages switch to TRICARE for Life (TFL) coverage e"ective October 1, 2011; were sent in 2010.) t Authorizes a 1.6-percent active duty and Reserve pay increase equal to the Shipmate involvement in ad- Employment Cost Index (ECI); vancing the Association’s legislative t Reduces Navy end strength by 3,000; agenda via the legislative process t Prohibits re-enlistment denial for service members determined by a Physical complements the work of the FRA’s Evaluation Board (PEB) to be $t for duty, but subsequently determined to be unsuitable for military service; Legislative Team and our members’ t Authorizes $25 million in supplemental Impact Aid to schools teaching mili- continued grassroots participation tary children and $5 million in Impact Aid for schools educating military will be an important factor in deter- children with severe disabilities; mining the Association’s success in t Requires pre-separation counseling for Reservists within 90 days of 2012. A great example is the nearly demobilization. &e bill drew a veto threat from President Obama regarding a policy on the 3,000 shipmates who responded to custody of suspected terrorists. &e House passed its version of the legislation the November “Making Waves” e- (H.R. 1540) in May and a conference committee must resolve di"erences be- mail alert and wrote to oppose pend- tween the two bills. &e resulting conference committee report must then be ing !oor amendments to the National approved by both chambers and signed or vetoed by the President. Defense Authorization bill that would Regarding amendments to the legislation, Sen. John McCain (Ariz.) withdrew have been costly to military retirees. an amendment that would have allowed future TRICARE Prime premium increases to be based on a DoD index related to healthcare in!ation. Additionally, &anks to shipmate involvement, a plan to combine 71 amendments not considered during debate was dropped none of the amendments listed in the due to time constraints. At press time, a conference committee is working to alert were called for a vote. reconcile di"erences between the House and Senate bills. ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL

2012 FRA Legislative Agenda FRA TOD FRA $ghts to preserve and enhance bene$ts and quality-of-life programs for active duty, Reserve, retired, and veteran per-

sonnel of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, their families and survivors. &e Association’s 2012 Legislative Agenda A Y was approved by shipmates attending the 84th National Convention in Kansas City, Mo., and includes: JANUARY 2012

EXPAND HEALTH CARE OPTIONS Pharmaceutical Drug Bene!t: BAH: Reform enlisted housing stan- Health Care Reform: Monitor health Monitor the pharmacy bene$t and en- dards by allowing E-7s and above to care reform and ensure that TRICARE sure that pharmacies maintain a broad reside in separate homes, track the and Department of Veterans A"airs uniform formulary. FRA supports Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) (VA) health care programs are not e"orts to reduce prescription costs to ensure it is commensurate with adversely impacted by unanticipated through “federal pricing” and other actual housing costs, ensure adequate consequences during implementation. discount programs, and will encourage housing inventory and that housing increased utilization of home delivery privatization programs are bene$cial Oppose Excessive TRICARE prescriptions to limit co-pays for ben- to service members and their families. Enrollment Fee Increases: &e e$ciaries and reduce costs as alterna- Defense Department (DoD) must tives to higher fees and co-payments. PCS Reform: Track the PCS pro- su%ciently investigate and implement cess; ensure adequate funding of the other options to make TRICARE Allow Military Retirees to Pay for Transition and Relocation Assistance more cost-e%cient as alternatives to Healthcare with Pretax Dollars: Programs, and authorization of in- shi'ing costs to TRICARE bene$cia- Secure authorization for military creased PCS mileage rates and higher ries. FRA will oppose any indexing of retirees to pay health insurance pre- household goods weight limits for se- future TRICARE fee increases beyond miums on a pretax basis and allow for nior enlisted personnel. Also advocate COLA increases. a tax deduction for TRICARE supple- for shipment of a second POV for mental insurance premiums. accompanied overseas assignments. Support Adequate Funding for Military Health Service: Ensure ad- SCRA Enforcement: Ensure that equate funding for the Military Health PROTECT PERSONNEL PROGRAMS the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Service (MHS) in order to meet Active Duty Pay: Secure additional (SCRA) is enforced by regulatory readiness needs, fully fund TRICARE, annual active duty pay increases that agencies, including the Consumer and improve access and aware- are at least equal to the Employment Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). ness of bene$ts for all bene$ciaries Cost Index (ECI). Coast Guard Parity: Ensure par- regardless of age, status or location, Defense Budget: Advocate for a including Reservists participating in ity with DoD of pay and bene$ts for Defense (DoD) Budget that is at least Coast Guard personnel plus adequate TRICARE Reserve Select, TRICARE $ve (5) percent of the Gross Domestic Retired Reserve, and Individual Ready funding for same within the U.S. Product (GDP) to ensure adequate Coast Guard budget. Reserve personnel. funding for both personnel and weap- DoD/VA Health Care Resource ons programs. Impact Aid Program: Ensure that the Department of Education has Sharing: Ensure adequate funding Military Resale System: Oppose for DoD and VA health care resource adequate funding to reimburse local privatization and ensure adequate school districts for educating military sharing in delivering seamless, cost funding for the Defense Commissary e"ective, quality services to person- children and that the DoD budget Agency (DeCA) to preserve the value includes su%cient supplemental nel wounded while participating in of the current bene$t and access for all Operations Enduring Freedom and funds to provide support for highly patrons, and oppose consolidation of impacted school districts. Iraqi Freedom, and other veterans, military exchanges based on results of and their families. costly recent studies on this concept Reservists’ Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Expand Health Care Options for and opposition from the services. Allow full tax-deductibility of non- Retirees Under Age 65: Expand reimbursable expenses related to End Strengths: Track end strength military training and weekend drill. health care alternatives including levels to ensure there are adequate TRICARE Standard, TRICARE Prime personnel available to meet the Sea Services Recruiters: Work to en- Remote and the Federal Employee demands of OND, OEF and other sure that recruiters have unrestricted Health Bene$t Program (FEHBP) as operational requirements. access to secondary schools, colleges options for military retirees under age and universities on the same basis as 65 who do not have access to military private sector employers. treatment facilities. continued on page 11 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 5 1 1 3 3 5 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 7 7 7 4 4 4 4 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 1 1 3 3 8 8 8 8 7 7

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11 2012 FRA Legislative Agenda (continued) TRICARE ISSUES FRA TOD VETERANS’ ISSUES Concurrent Receipt: Support leg- TRICARE Young Adult Prime

Option Available A

Improve Department of Veterans islation authorizing the immediate Y JANUARY 2012 A"airs Funding: Support initiatives payment of concurrent receipt of full The TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) Prime option to help ensure timely and full funding military retired pay and veterans’ dis- is now available for young adult beneficia- for the VA, with special attention for ability compensation for all disabled ries for a monthly premium of $201. TYA VA health care to ensure access and retirees. Prime is a managed health care option with care for all bene$ciaries. low out-of-pocket costs. Care is delivered Reserve Retirement Age: Support through military clinics and hospitals and the Agent Orange Disability Claims: extension of authority for early retire- TRICARE network of civilian providers. Seek to reverse the VA’s policy that ment (90 days active duty = three prevents “blue water” military retirees months reduction) for all Reservists Qualifying beneficiaries must be under age and veterans from claiming disability who have served since 9/11/01, and 26, unmarried and not eligible for their own bene$ts for diseases associated with the elimination of $scal year speci$c employer-sponsored health care coverage. In exposure to Agent Orange. rule associated with same. addition to TYA Prime, young adult depen- dents may also be eligible for TYA Standard, Oppose Access Fees: Oppose USFSPA: Encourage the introduc- which has been available since May 2011, establishing a tiered enrollment fee tion and enactment of legislation to at a cost of $186/month ($176/month after structure for veterans in Priority eliminate inequities in the Uniformed January 1, 2012). Groups 7 and 8 within the VA Health Services Former Spouses Protection For additional information and application Care System. Act (USFSPA). forms, visit www.tricare.mil/tya Improve VA Claim Processing: Retention of Final Month’s Retired TRICARE Data Theft Work to eliminate backlog of claims Pay: Support legislation authorizing at the Department of Veterans A"airs the retention of the full $nal month’s Letters were sent to 4.9 million TRICARE and support reform of the antiquated retired pay by the surviving spouse beneficiaries by the Science Applications Veterans Bene$ts Administration (or other designated survivor) for International Corporation (SAIC), a contrac- (VBA) paper claims system. the month in which the member was tor for TRICARE Management Activity (TMA), alive for at least 24 hours. regarding the theft of their personal data. Education Enhancements: Ensure Computer tapes stolen from a SAIC em- full and timely implementation of SBP/DIC O"set: Support legislation ployee’s car contained beneficiaries’ names, improvements to the Post 9/11 GI Bill to repeal the SBP/DIC o"set for sur- Social Security numbers, birth dates, phone and work to improve other education viving spouses of personnel who die numbers, and laboratory results, but did not bene$t programs for veterans and of service-connected causes. include financial data, such as credit card survivors of disabled or deceased numbers or bank information. veterans who died of a service-con- Paid-up SBP at Age 67: Work to nected disability, were killed on active change the minimum age for paid-up TMA has directed SAIC to provide one year duty or while on drill status. SBP from age 70 to age 67, which will of credit monitoring and restoration services allow those who joined the military at to patients who express concern about their Reserve Retirees Veterans’ Status: age 17, 18 or 19 and serve 20 years to credit. SAIC will also conduct analysis of all Seek full veteran status for Reservists only be required to pay SBP premi- available data to help determine if identity with 20 years or more of service, who ums for 30 years. theft occurs due to the data breach. TMA be- do not otherwise qualify for full vet- lieves the risk of harm is low despite the sen- erans’ bene$ts under current law. Retirees’ TSP Contributions: Work sitive data involved, as retrieving information to authorize for military retirees the from the tapes requires knowledge of and option of continuing to contribute to SAFEGUARD RETIREE BENEFITS access to specific hardware and software and their &ri' Savings Plan (TSP) as they knowledge of the system and data structure. Protect Military Retired or Retainer did when they were on active duty. Pay: Fight e"orts to reduce military retired or retainer pay and ensure equita- Base Closures: Support retention of Concerned patients may contact the SAIC ble cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) military treatment and other facilities Incident Response Call Center, Monday for all military retirees commensurate at BRAC sites that are patronized by through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern with their service and sacri$ces, and sizeable retiree and Reserve popula- Time; at (855) 366-0140 (toll free) for oppose e"orts to civilianize the mili- tions and closely monitor the impact United States callers and (952) 556-8312 tary retirement system. And advocate of closures and realignments. (collect) internationally. for rounding up to the next dollar for retired pay and other bene$ts. ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL

12 VETERANS ISSUES FRA Meets with Senate FRA Participates in Military Family Caucus Summit It stays forever in your heart Steering Committee FRA’s National Veterans Service Ofﬁcer (NVSO) Chris Slawinski participated in the Military Family FRA National Executive Director (NED) Joe Caucus Summit on Capitol Hill. The summit was hosted by Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives JANUARY 2012 JANUARY

Y Barnes and representatives from other mili- Sanford Bishop (Ga.) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (Wash.), and provided an opportunity for A tary and veteran organizations participated military members, veterans, family members and other stakeholders to discuss active duty, in a round table discussion in late November guard, Reserve, veteran and family concerns. FRA TOD with the Senate Democrat Steering and Slawinski participated in a breakout session on veteran issues, including the continuing chal- Outreach Committee. The agenda included lenges associated with transitioning from DoD to VA for wounded personnel. The panel discussion of the challenges facing today’s was moderated by Representative Corrine Brown (Fla.), member of the House Veterans Affairs veterans, including employment, remote ac- Committee (HVAC). cess to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Unfortunately, it also stays forever in your lungs healthcare and other programs in Alaska and service members’ transition from the Employment Help for Veterans Department of Defense to the VA. The group Are you or a loved one a Navy, Merchant Marine or Coast Guard veteran who suffers or has died from asbestos-related President Obama announced the establishment of the Veterans Jobs Bank, powered by the also discussed legislation (H.R. 674) com- National Resource Directory (www.NRD.gov), that provides a central source for veterans to Mesothelioma or Lung Cancer? bining Sen. Patty Murray’s (Wash.) “Hiring locate job opportunities. The Veterans Job Bank is unique in that it provides users with the abil- Know your rights, and know what you’re entitled to from the asbestos companies. Heroes Act” (S. 951), Rep. Jeff Miller’s (Fla.) ity to define their search criteria by keyword, Military Occupational Code (MOC) and location. Few firms have the track record of Weitz & Luxenberg in securing “Veterans Opportunity to Work Act” (H.R. Based on information provided, the search engine pulls a selection of global job opportunities over $3 Billion in verdicts and settlements for asbestos victims and their families. 2433) and veterans’ tax-credit language into that have been posted or specifically tagged for veterans on job boards, such as Simply Hired a comprehensive package designed to reduce For a free consultation with the law firm to which other lawyers refer their asbestos cases, and corporate websites. veterans’ unemployment rates. The measure call the Weitz & Luxenberg client relations department at 1-888-411-LAWS (5297) today. was approved by the Senate and House, and In related news, the President signed legislation (H.R. 627) into law that includes combined signed into law by the President. (See story to provisions of Senator Patty Murray’s (Wash.) “Hiring Heroes Act” (S. 951), Representative Jeff 700 Broadway New York, NY 10003 the right for further details on provisions in- Miller’s (Fla.) “Veterans Opportunity to Work Act” (H.R. 2433) and veterans’ tax-credit language. WEITZ LUXENBERG P.C. LAW OFFICES BRANCH OFFICES IN NEW JERSEY, CALIFORNIA & COLORADO 1.888.411.LAWS www.weitzlux.com tended to reduce veterans’ unemployment.) The latest job figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that nearly one million veterans & ASBESTOS DRUGS/MEDICAL DEVICES ENVIRONMENTAL NEGLIGENCE are currently unemployed, including more than 600,000 veterans of past eras and conflicts, and A total of 16 senators participated in the Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. We may associate with local firms in states wherein we do not maintain an office. the comprehensive package is designed to reduce the unemployment rate among veterans. round table discussion including Majority Leader Harry Reid (Nev.), Super Committee Provisions of the legislation include: co-chairwoman and Senate Veterans Affairs s Expanding education and training opportunities for older veterans by providing nearly Committee Chairwoman Patty Murray 100,000 unemployed veterans of past eras and wars with up to one year of additional (Wash.), Majority Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.) Montgomery GI Bill benefits for education or training programs at community colleges or and former VA Committee chairman Daniel technical schools for high-demand jobs. Akaka (Hawaii). s Making the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) — an interagency workshop coordinated by Departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs — mandatory for service members Veterans’ Day 2011 moving on to civilian life and help them secure 21st Century jobs through resume-writing In accordance with a long-standing tradition, workshops and career counseling. FRA shipmates participated in Veterans’ Day s Providing disabled veterans up to one year of additional vocational rehabilitation and em- ceremonies around the country on Friday, ployment benefits. November 11th, 2011, which also marked s Mandating DoD work with the states to create licensing and credential standards for re- FRA’s 87th anniversary. These included FRA turning service members to acknowledge skills learned in their military occupations. National President Jeffrey A. Gilmartin at- s Allowing service members to begin the federal employment process prior to separation tending a White House breakfast before in order to facilitate a truly seamless transition from the military to jobs at VA, Homeland ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery Security or other federal agencies. and a special wreath-laying ceremony at the s Strengthening protections for members of the Reserve Component to minimize hostile Tomb of the Unknowns following President work environments. Obama’s address to veterans and their fam- s Providing a tax credit of up to $5,600 for hiring veterans who have been looking for a job ily members who assembled for the occasion. for more than six months, as well as a $2,400 credit for veterans who are unemployed for FRA JrPNP Jim Scarbro and Auxiliary President more than four weeks, but less than six months. Also provides a tax credit of up to $9,600 Gini Larson were also in attendance. for hiring veterans with service-connected disabilities who have been looking for a job for more than six months. ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL

13 It stays forever in your heart FRA TOD A Y JANUARY 2012

Unfortunately, it also stays forever in your lungs

Are you or a loved one a Navy, Merchant Marine or Coast Guard veteran who suffers or has died from asbestos-related Mesothelioma or Lung Cancer? Know your rights, and know what you’re entitled to from the asbestos companies. Few firms have the track record of Weitz & Luxenberg in securing over $3 Billion in verdicts and settlements for asbestos victims and their families. For a free consultation with the law firm to which other lawyers refer their asbestos cases, call the Weitz & Luxenberg client relations department at 1-888-411-LAWS (5297) today.

700 Broadway New York, NY 10003 WEITZ LUXENBERG P.C. LAW OFFICES BRANCH OFFICES IN NEW JERSEY, CALIFORNIA & COLORADO 1.888.411.LAWS www.weitzlux.com & ASBESTOS DRUGS/MEDICAL DEVICES ENVIRONMENTAL NEGLIGENCE Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. We may associate with local firms in states wherein we do not maintain an office.

VETERANS ISSUES PDBR Increases Disability Ratings for Many Veterans’ Critical Issues Report The Physical Disability Board of Review (PDBR) was mandated by the FY2008 Defense Available Online Authorization Act to reassess the accuracy and fairness of disability claims that resulted in The Independent Budget (IB) Critical Issues combined disability ratings of 20 percent or less for service members who were separated from Report for Fiscal Year 2013 is now avail- service due to medical conditions rather than being medically retired. Since January 1, 2009, able online. Intended to alert Congress, only 2,842 of the more than 77,000 eligible for reassessment have applied. Nearly half of the Administration and the Department of those reviewed have been upgraded to 30 percent or more. Veterans Affairs (VA) on veterans’ concerns, To be eligible for a PDBR review, service members must have been medically separated be- the report addresses needed legislative and tween September 11, 2001, and December 31, 2009, with a combined disability rating of 20 regulatory action associated with healthcare, percent or less, and found ineligible for retirement. At the present time, there is no time limit beneﬁts and other services. or cutoff date by which you must apply for this review, however, the longer you wait, the more The FY 2013 IB will be released in February difﬁcult it may be to gather required medical evidence from your VA rating process, your service and marks the 27th year that AMVETS, treatment record or other in-service sources. Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Paralyzed To request a PDBR review, visit: Veterans of America (PVA) and the Veterans http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/infomgt/forms/eforms/dd0294.pdf of Foreign Wars (VFW) have published the guide for policymakers tasked with serving the needs of America’s veterans. Along with numerous other organizations, FRA consis- tently supports the IB.

The FRA Legislative team is Joe Barnes, National Executive Director; John Davis, Director of Legislative Programs; A copy of the report is available at: http:// Bob Washington, Health Care Advisor and Outreach Manager; Chris Slawinski, National Veterans Service Ofﬁcer www.independentbudget.org/2013/ and Ed Dockery, Assistant Director of Legislative Programs. CI_2013.pdf FRA 2011 LEGISLATIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS

14 AS WE START THE New Year and the t An amendment to Senate Defense t Supported authorization of early Second Session of the 112th Congress, Authorization bill (S. 1867) to re- retirement and involuntary separa- it’s important to note the many threats peal the SBP/DIC o"set for surviving tion bene$ts associated with mili- to member pay and bene$ts that the spouses of personnel who die of ser- tary end strength reductions. Association e"ectively addressed during vice-connected causes was approved. t FRA successfully advocated for JANUARY 2012 JANUARY

Y 2011. t FRA opposed a change to the cost- provision in NDAA that prohibits A of-living adjustments (COLAs) denial of re-enlistment for a service HEALTH CARE BENEFITS formula associated military retired member determined by Physical FRA TOD t TRICARE Prime enrollment fees pay, Social Security, disability com- Evaluation Board (PEB) to be $t will increase by $5 (family coverage) pensation and other bene$ts. &e for duty, but is subsequently deter- / $2.50 (single coverage), however, “chained CPI,” would take into ac- mined to be unsuitable for service. the index for future adjustments count substitutions that consum- will be the Consumer Price Index ers make in response to changes in VETERANS ISSUES (CPI) which tracks the overall in!a- prices resulting in reduced annual t FRA supported legislation clarify- tion rate for retired pay and bene$ts COLA amounts. ing presumption for “Blue Water” — vice a higher health care in!a- t Congressional testimony and other Vietnam veterans with disability tion rate proposed by DoD. e"orts in opposition to a Defense claims related to Agent Orange ex- t Elimination of the co-pay for Business Board (DBB) plan to re- posure (S. 1629 and H.R. 812). prescriptions dispensed via the place current retirement system t FRA advocated “&e Veterans TRICARE home-delivery program. with a 401(k) plan helped halt legis- Appeals Improvement Act” (H.R. t A Super Committee recommen- lative proposals to reform the pro- 1484) which passed in the House dation to establish a TRICARE- gram, along with a White House and seeks to establish a Veterans for-Life enrollment fee ($200) was proposal to establish a BRAC type Judicial Review Commission to not approved since the panel failed commission to consider restruc- develop ways to improve the accu- to agree to future budget cuts. A turing the military retirement sys- racy, transparency, and timeliness White House proposal to create a tem and other bene$ts. of the VA claims appeals process. commission to consider restruc- t FRA advocated legislation (HR t Supported legislation (H.R. 2646) turing the military retirement sys- 493) that would forgive overpayment that ensures funding for VA hospi- tem was not approved. of military retired or retainer pay tal construction projects and medi- t A plan to shi' military retir- for any period a'er the death of the cal facility leases in FY2012 (P.L. ees from TRICARE Prime to recipient through the last day of the 112-37). TRICARE Standard ($1500 indi- month in which such death occurs. t Successfully supported enacted vidual enrollment fee / $3500 for legislation (H.R. 674) to provide family coverage) was halted. &e ACTIVE AND RESERVE ISSUES tax credits for businesses to hire plan would also ban TRICARE t E"ectively advocated a 1.6 percent veterans (P.L. 112-56). coverage for retirees with civilian 2012 pay increase for active duty t Advocated for enactment of the employee coverage. and Reservists despite a multi-year “Restoring GI Bill Fairness Act” t &e year-long delay on imposing federal employee pay freeze. (H.R. 1383) that increases the tu- Medicare/TRICARE physician t Successfully advocated for a pro- ition cap to $27,000 for certain vet- reimbursement rate cuts in ex- vision in the House Defense erans currently attending private cess of 27% ends on 12/31/11 and Authorization bill (H.R. 1540) that schools (P.L. 112-26). Congress is apparently working on extends authority to provide lodging yet another extension of at least for Navy enlisted personnel during OTHER ISSUES one year. &is issue is signi$cant to ship construction or re$tting work. t Strongly supported enactment of access to care for bene$ciaries. t Supported the “Ensuring Our the U.S. Coast Guard Authorization Military Pay Act” (S. 724) that would bill (H.R. 2838) which passed in the PROPOSALS IMPACTING RETIREMENT guarantee service members (includ- House and authorizes Coast Guard AND SURVIVOR BENEFITS ing Reservists) would be paid if there programs through 2014. t Strong and continuing support for is a government shut down or a de- t Halted e"orts to signi$cantly full concurrent receipt of military fault on government debt obligations. change to the military resale sys- retired and veterans’ disability com- t E"ectively advocated supplemental tem by reducing the annual subsidy pensation prompted reintroduction Impact Aid via the DoD budget for of military commissaries and com- of legislation addressing this issue (S. public schools impacted by mili- bine the three exchange systems 344, H.R. 333) along with an amend- tary populations — including stu- (AAFES, NEXCOM and MCX). ment to the Senate 2012 NDAA. dents with disabilities. *"#"''*#)((**%*%**((" #'( !(( )$(*

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16 JANUARY 2012 JANUARY Y A Plan for 2012 Penny Collins FRA SHIPMATES ARE DOING fantastic MARCH: CHOOSING/TRAINING AUGUST: COMMUNITY SERVICE FRA TOD things in their branches and in their BRANCH LEADERSHIP Branches and individual shipmates communities. Sometimes we $nd What are the most e"ective ways you are always doing tremendous things to out about these things and are able have found to recruit, train and re- help their local communities. Please to highlight them in FRA Today, but tain branch leaders? Some branches share what you are doing with sto- many times our shipmates remain un- promote the concept of continuity ries and photos. &is is your chance sung heroes. in leadership as being e"ective while to brag about your e"orts and inspire During a recent round table dis- others $nd that an infusion of “new others to get involved. cussion with several Association lead- blood” helps create positive results. ers and National Headquarters’ sta" We would love to show both sides of SEPTEMBER: COMMUNICATION members, a suggestion was made to that discussion! WITH SHIPMATES $nd ways for branches to share the We know that membership retention great work they are doing with the rest APRIL: SETTING BRANCH GOALS rates are directly connected to ship- of the shipmates, to inspire, encourage Branches that establish goals and in- mates feeling involved and connected. and motivate similar activities. volve their membership in achieving What do you do to keep in touch with In February, this column will fo- those goals can accomplish monu- your shipmates? cus on the background and impor- mental things. If your branch has set and achieved a goal — or if you are OCTOBER: IMPROVING BRANCH tance of the awards given at National MEETINGS Convention each year. &ese awards just embarking on a new goal — please &e success of branch meetings is a are an opportunity to recognize and let us know how you decided on the key component of the vitality of the reward the e"orts of branches and in- goal and what your steps are to mak- branch. What does your branch do to dividuals, so we want to make sure all ing that goal a reality. make branch meetings interesting, in- readers are aware of the criteria for the MAY: RETENTION EFFORTS formative and worth the trip? awards and the nomination process. Has your branch achieved a 100% re- From March through December, tention rate or better? What is it that NOVEMBER: STARTING A NEW we are looking to shipmates to provide you do to make that happen? Share BRANCH content for this column. Although we your story and inspire other branches If you were involved with starting a new won’t be able to publish everything to increase their retention rates. Give branch, please share what you did to that is sent in, we will review and in- us the statistics and the stories! make it happen. If you are considering clude as many ideas and photos as starting a new branch, let us know that possible. &e following is the planned JUNE: RECRUITING EFFORTS too! What motivated you? What are the editorial calendar, and shipmates are Recruiting is a challenge for many steps you took to get going? What ad- encouraged to submit ideas, anecdotes shipmates. We are frequently asked vice would you share with others? and photos that relate. for tips on how to promote member- Please send your submissions to: ship in FRA. Please share what you do DECEMBER: BEST OF THE YEAR Membership Matters to increase your success in recruiting REVIEW AND BZS FRA new FRA shipmates. We will provide a way for shipmates 125 N. West St to vote on the best submissions dur- Alexandria, VA 22314 JULY: OUTREACH EVENTS ing the year and in December we will or email to [email protected] Whether you attend an outreach event report on the results. If sending photos, please send high as an individual or as part of a branch resolution jpeg $les or mail a commer- activity, we would like you to share cially printed photo. how you $nd the events, what you do Penny Collins is FRA’s Director of Membership to stand out in the crowd and how you Development and a member of FRA Branch 24 in judge whether or not it was a success. Annapolis, Md. She can be reached at [email protected]. 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 5 1 1 3 3 5 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 7 7 7 4 4 4 4 ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ ⁄ 1 1 3 3 8 8 8 8 7 7

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Neither the Department of the Navy nor any other component of the Department of Defense has approved, endorsed or authorized this product. 2 ways to look ship shape Price Show your heart belongs to the Navy inside and out when you wear the exclusive “U.S. Navy RESERVATION APPLICATION SEND NO MONEY NOW J Pride” Reversible Camoufl age Jacket. Our custom design features a poly woven camoufl age print inspired by the new digital camoufl age of the Navy. In fi ne embroidery, the front Logo & displays the Eagle, Flag and Crossed Anchors emblem and UNITED STATES NAVY, while the 9345 Milwaukee Avenue · Niles, IL 60714-1393 Address back proudly bears the NAVY monogram in appliqué and embroidery. The jacket reverses YES. Please reserve the “U.S. Navy Pride” Reversible J to a Navy blue and putty gray in a mid-weight cotton blend twill. Emblazoned on the back Camoufl age Jacket for me as described in this announce- of the two-tone side is an impressive tribute in appliqué and ment. I’ve circled my size preference below. Job embroidery that showcases dramatic Naval action in the air Limit: one per order. Please Respond Promptly Code and on the sea along with the words “UNITED STATES NAVY.” An ❑ M(38-40) 01-14713-011 ❑ XL(46-48) 01-14713-013 J American fl ag patch on one sleeve, knit cuffs and bottom band and ❑ L(42-44) 01-14713-012 ❑ XXL(50-52) 01-14713-014 Tracking sculpted Navy emblem zipper pull complete the look. Imported. Code A remarkable value... Mrs. Mr. Ms. J satisfaction guaranteed Name (Please Print Clearly) Address Available in four sizes, this reversible jacket is a remarkable value embroidery Yellow at just $179.95*, payable in 5 easy installments of $35.99 each, Snipe and backed by our 30-day money-back guarantee. This is a on the front City J limited-time offer, so don’t delay. To acquire yours, send no of the two- tone side State Zip Ship- money now; just return the Reservation Application today! -E27941 ping *Plus $14.99 shipping and service. Please allow 4 to 8 weeks after the ! rst payment Service ©2011 BGE 01-14713-001-BI www.bradfordexchange.com/camonavy for shipment. All sales are subject to product availability and order acceptance. J

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by Lauren Armstrong

- Jim Landy served two tours at McMurdo Station, a scientific research center in Antarctica, as part of Operation Deep Freeze, the military contin gent that supported scientists conducting polar research. Antarctic deployments were scheduled by season — usually October to February — when the temperatures were a bit higher and the sun never set. He deployed for four seasons as a jet mechanic - (1970-1974) and then returned for a second tour (1977-1981) as a flight engineer on C-130 Hercules aircraft. He loved his polar assign ments andendless enjoyed day. the beauty of each However, he is now fighting a variety of cancers he believes are related to his service there. Since 2008, Landy Jim Landy at McMurdo Station, Antarctica. has suffered the ravages of esophageal , brain liver, stomach of which he believes andare the spinal result cancer of , radiation exposure from the nuclear plant — all

All historical photos provided courtesy that powered the McMurdo facility from of Bill Vogel and Pam Landy. March 1964 to October 1973. 19 FRA TOD A Y JANUARY 2012

he PM-3A nuclear plant was used to produce electricity for the research facility, as well as provide heat and desalinate water for McMurdo personnel. The plant had numerous malfunctions and was eventually decommissioned after a leak was discovered. Landy and some of the other 15,000 Navy servicemen who served at McMurdo Station during the plant’s operation and shutdown can’t help but wonder to what extent they were exposed to harmful radiation.

The anecdotal data is compelling. Landy isn’t the only McMurdo veteran with cancer and other radiation-related illnesses. Jim Chock has testicular cancer. Charlie Swinney was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which spread to his spine and brain and eventually led to his death in 2009. When Bob Boyles was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, the !rst thing his doctor asked him was “When were you exposed to radiation?” Gene Loper has thyroid disease, another illness associated with radiation exposure. Joe Aucoin has bladder cancer. Tony Carr died with cancer. Dan Desko died from blood cancer. Joe Howe has colon cancer. Izzy Gantz is enrolled in hospice care as he !ghts cancer. Skip Fulford had one lung removed and is now !ghting cancer in his remaining lung. Walter Glennon died in 2006 of esophageal cancer. And the list goes on…. continued on page 21 !!! ! !! !! !!!!

A 100th Anniversary Officially Licensed Colt® Government Model® Pistol Issued Exclusively by America Remembers® The Centennial ANNIVERSARY Tribute Pistol

&"&$#"( Left side features banners that read, “Centennial Anniversary” and “Honoring Military Service To America.” ( '$( COLT, , and RAMPANT At the center of the artwork is a medallion featuring the COLT are registered &('$#'( trademarks of New %&(%'("#%'! familiar profile of the Colt 1911 pistol, encircled by the Colt Holding Corp. and are used by America %%'($'! legend “100 Years Defending Freedom.” Bookmarking the Remembers under license. &$' medallion are the years “1911”–“2011” –in honor of a All rights reserved. century of distinguished service.

©AHL, Inc. Right side commemorates the featured U.S. military service branch (U.S. Navy Tribute shown), with elegant, flowing banners and clusters of stars decorated in richly-plated 24-karat gold. Each pistol in the edition will showcase the name of the service branch honored, its motto and the date it was founded. (Army, USMC, Air Force also available.) “The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten.” ~ Calvin Coolidge

During the last century of military warfare, America’s Armed Forces have triumphed over incredible odds in conflicts across the globe. During this time, one firearm comes to mind that best embodies the spirit of all those who served in the 20th century. It’s the classic Colt M1911A1 .45 pistol. No firearm in history can boast a more impressive record of American military service than the Colt Model 1911. The .45 caliber pistol served as the official sidearm for Display Case Available our country's Armed Forces from 1911 to 1985, longer than any other small military arm in the world. An optional luxuriously lined, custom-built, wooden display case is available for purchase. Now, on the 100th Anniversary of the Colt Model 1911 pistol, Colt and America Remembers are proud to issue Official Colt Collectibles honoring the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force – each separate Please enter my reservation for the “Colt® Centennial Anniversary edition is issued in a strictly limited edition of 500 pistols per service branch. In addition, there is a 100th Anniversary Tribute Pistol,” selected below. Each is a working Colt .45 pistol, at the edition of 500 Patriotic Colt .45 Pistols, featuring an American Eagle and the phrase “Land of the Free, Home of the introductory issue price of $1,995.* My deposit of $195 per Tribute is Brave.” Craftsmen specifically commissioned by America Remembers decorate each Tribute in stunning 24-karat gold enclosed. I wish to pay the balance at the rate of $100 per month, no artwork over a blue steel canvas. In every phase of its conception, design and execution, and in every detail of its finish, interest or carrying charges. Certificate of Authenticity included. Thirty- day return privilege. *All orders are subject to acceptance and credit verification prior to shipment. Shipping we have held fast to the goal of creating a powerful, museum-quality tribute to history's greatest military sidearm. and handling will be added to each order. Virginia residents please add 5% sales tax. Service Branch Honored: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps Available Now I U.S. Army I U.S. Air Force I U.S. Marine Corps I U.S. Navy I Patriotic For the veterans of America’s Armed Forces who carried a Colt .45 pistol, the classic military sidearm has special I Check enclosed for $______. significance. It was a constant companion that offered superior stopping power against all enemies. To put it simply, I Charge payment of $ ______to: the Colt .45 pistol was a lifesaver. The Colt was utterly reliable, virtually indestructible and awesome in its stopping I VISA I MasterCard I AMEX I Discover power. In the hands of courageous American warriors, it would become a military and firearms legend. For decades, wherever Americans fought for freedom, the Colt .45 was there. Those who pulled the trigger will never forget, and No. Exp. Display Case neither should we. J I wish to reserve the optional, luxuriously lined, custom-made display reserve now case with locking glass lid. My payment of $149* is enclosed or add to credit card. Reservations will be accepted in the order they are received. You can mail us your order, or to prioritize your order and confirm availability, call us toll-free at 1-800-682-2291. We will arrange delivery through the licensed firearms Name dealer of your choice. And, as always, if you are not completely satisfied, you may return your Tribute to us in original, Address unfired condition within 30 days for a complete and courteous refund. The Colt name is legendary for firearm enthusiasts, as well as for military veterans and their families. This City/State/Zip exclusive Tribute stands as a monumental salute to all who served our country and carried the iconic pistol in defense Daytime Telephone No. ( ) of freedom. As a nation we must never forget the courage and sacrifice of those who served and continue to serve ® ® today. Secure your Colt Centennial Anniversary Military Tribute Pistol today and keep it forever as the ultimate ##### America Remembers symbol of fine firearms craftsmanship, American military history and service in defense of freedom. ##### 10226 Timber Ridge Drive, Ashland, Virginia 23005 www.americaremembers.com &!' (& % &'$"'"%(&!' #%& ((( #'$((((( !#%#&"(##%(( ('$('$#'($" To place your reservation toll-free call 1-800-682-2291 !!! ! !! !! !!!!

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ANNIVERSARY Tribute Pistol JANUARY 2012

Despite some 438 documented mal- Nuclear Power in the a cost-e!ective alternative to diesel- functions at the plant and 123 reports Antarctic fueled power plants. Diesel fuel was of radiation exposure, the Department considered expensive at the time and, of Veterans A!airs (VA) has denied all The Navy launched Operation Deep when transportation costs were fac- Freeze in 1955 to maintain and supply &"&$#"( Left side features banners that read, “Centennial claims for bene"ts related to these tored in, the cost per gallon more than Anniversary” and “Honoring Military Service To America.” the logistical needs of permanent ( '$( COLT, , and RAMPANT illnesses. A group of McMurdo vets tripled. If it was required to transport a At the center of the artwork is a medallion featuring the COLT are registered &('$#'( trademarks of New and surviving family members are research stations in Antarctica. For 44 12-cent gallon of diesel fuel to particu- %&(%'("#%'! familiar profile of the Colt 1911 pistol, encircled by the Colt Holding Corp. years, Naval Support Force Antarctica legend “100 Years Defending Freedom.” Bookmarking the and are used by America working to ensure these veterans get larly remote areas, such as the interior %%'($'! Remembers under license. and Antarctic Development Squadron &$' medallion are the years “1911”–“2011” –in honor of a All rights reserved. the bene"ts they deserve. of Antarctica, the cost rose to nearly century of distinguished service. Six (VX-6 and later VXE-6) provided six dollars/gallon. Producing nuclear “The list of people who served at the military’s primary support to the power was estimated to reduce those McMurdo who’ve been diagnosed with U.S. Antarctic Program. costs by half, so in August of 1960 cancer is alarming,” says Bill Vogel, Congress authorized the construction an uno#cial spokesperson for the Antarctica is the planet’s coldest, ©AHL, Inc. of a nuclear power plant at McMurdo McMurdo vets. driest and highest continent, which Right side commemorates the featured U.S. military service branch (U.S. Navy Tribute shown), with elegant, flowing banners and Station, the primary base for Operation clusters of stars decorated in richly-plated 24-karat gold. Each pistol in the edition will showcase the name of the service branch creates a very hostile living and work- honored, its motto and the date it was founded. (Army, USMC, Air Force also available.) Vogel served as an aircrew loadmaster ing environment for the scientists and Deep Freeze. in Antarctic Development Squadron support sta! who reside there year The 413-ton nuclear plant was “The nation which forgets its defenders will Six (VXE-6) and spent three six-month round. In April of 1960, the Atomic designed to "t inside a military cargo seasons at McMurdo (1975 – 1978). be itself forgotten.” ~ Calvin Coolidge Energy Commission issued a report on plane and, although it was actually Although he isn’t personally experi- the advantages of using nuclear reac- shipped to the Antarctic, its desig- During the last century of military warfare, America’s Armed Forces have triumphed over incredible odds in encing any radiation-related illnesses, tors at remote military installations as nation as a portable power source conflicts across the globe. During this time, one firearm comes to mind that best embodies the spirit of all those who he’s taken his shipmates’ concerns to served in the 20th century. It’s the classic Colt M1911A1 .45 pistol. No firearm in history can boast a more impressive record of American military service than the Colt Model 1911. The .45 caliber pistol served as the official sidearm for Display Case Available heart and is carrying the banner on our country's Armed Forces from 1911 to 1985, longer than any other small military arm in the world. An optional luxuriously lined, custom-built, wooden display their behalf. case is available for purchase. Now, on the 100th Anniversary of the Colt Model 1911 pistol, Colt and America Remembers are proud to issue Official Colt Collectibles honoring the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force – each separate Please enter my reservation for the “Colt® Centennial Anniversary “Charlie Swinney, a fellow loadmas- edition is issued in a strictly limited edition of 500 pistols per service branch. In addition, there is a 100th Anniversary Tribute Pistol,” selected below. Each is a working Colt .45 pistol, at the ter, and I became good friends at edition of 500 Patriotic Colt .45 Pistols, featuring an American Eagle and the phrase “Land of the Free, Home of the introductory issue price of $1,995.* My deposit of $195 per Tribute is McMurdo and stayed in touch over the Brave.” Craftsmen specifically commissioned by America Remembers decorate each Tribute in stunning 24-karat gold enclosed. I wish to pay the balance at the rate of $100 per month, no years,” explains Vogel. “He was initially artwork over a blue steel canvas. In every phase of its conception, design and execution, and in every detail of its finish, interest or carrying charges. Certificate of Authenticity included. Thirty- day return privilege. *All orders are subject to acceptance and credit verification prior to shipment. Shipping diagnosed with prostate cancer at an we have held fast to the goal of creating a powerful, museum-quality tribute to history's greatest military sidearm. and handling will be added to each order. Virginia residents please add 5% sales tax. Service Branch Honored: early age, which spread to his spine Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps Available Now I U.S. Army I U.S. Air Force I U.S. Marine Corps I U.S. Navy I Patriotic and brain. When he died in February For the veterans of America’s Armed Forces who carried a Colt .45 pistol, the classic military sidearm has special I Check enclosed for $______. 2009, he had more than 200 tumors significance. It was a constant companion that offered superior stopping power against all enemies. To put it simply, I Charge payment of $ ______to: in his body. Charlie lost everything the Colt .45 pistol was a lifesaver. The Colt was utterly reliable, virtually indestructible and awesome in its stopping I VISA I MasterCard I AMEX I Discover in his "ght against cancer. Besides power. In the hands of courageous American warriors, it would become a military and firearms legend. For decades, losing the "ght for his life, he lost his wherever Americans fought for freedom, the Colt .45 was there. Those who pulled the trigger will never forget, and No. Exp. Display Case neither should we. home, his car – everything – after he J I wish to reserve the optional, luxuriously lined, custom-made display was diagnosed. Charlie kept ask- reserve now case with locking glass lid. My payment of $149* is enclosed or add to ing the VA to look into his case, but credit card. Reservations will be accepted in the order they are received. You can mail us your order, or to prioritize your order all claims for bene"ts were denied. and confirm availability, call us toll-free at 1-800-682-2291. We will arrange delivery through the licensed firearms Name Shortly before his death, Charlie asked dealer of your choice. And, as always, if you are not completely satisfied, you may return your Tribute to us in original, Address me to continue the "ght on behalf unfired condition within 30 days for a complete and courteous refund. The Colt name is legendary for firearm enthusiasts, as well as for military veterans and their families. This City/State/Zip of all the other VXE-6 vets who’ve exclusive Tribute stands as a monumental salute to all who served our country and carried the iconic pistol in defense been impacted. After reading all the Daytime Telephone No. ( ) McMurdo Station personnel climbed Observation Hill as a form of recreation. of freedom. As a nation we must never forget the courage and sacrifice of those who served and continue to serve documentation Charlie had collected, ® ® today. Secure your Colt Centennial Anniversary Military Tribute Pistol today and keep it forever as the ultimate ##### America Remembers I couldn’t say no.” symbol of fine firearms craftsmanship, American military history and service in defense of freedom. ##### 10226 Timber Ridge Drive, Ashland, Virginia 23005 www.americaremembers.com &!' (& % &'$"'"%(&!' #%& ((( #'$((((( !#%#&"(##%(( ('$('$#'($" To place your reservation toll-free call 1-800-682-2291 22 JANUARY 2012 JANUARY Y A FRA TOD was part of its military acronym. The PM-3A title designated it as a “portable, medium” output reactor that was the third in a planned series of reactors the military intended to use for multiple purposes. (The two earlier reactors were operated in Thule, Greenland, and Sundance, Wyo.) The A indicated that the reactor was a "eld installation. The men assigned to PM-3A were part of the Naval Nuclear Power Unit or NNPU, which soon The PM-3A nuclear plant was situ- evolved to “Nukey Poo” and became ated above the quarters and dining facilities for McMurdo personnel. the nickname for the problem-prone reactor.

PM-3A was installed on a slight terrace on a slope called Observation Hill, only a few hundred yards above McMurdo Station. The plant ran on Strontium-90 pellets, a dangerous fuel that is highly expected output, the excess heat was ever issued any type of measuring radioactive before it enters the reactor used to melt ice into water that was device so our radiation exposure levels core. The "rst of four large steel tanks used for drinking, cooking and bathing could be recorded. There’s no way to held the reactor itself and the second by McMurdo personnel. know how much radiation we may contained a steam generator in which have been exposed to.” extremely hot pressurized water from the reactor was turned to steam. A New Frontier And even when dosimeters were The third tank was empty to allow issued, their use didn’t follow proper There was a great deal to be learned for thermal expansion in the other protocol. Joe Aucoin was a "reman at about using nuclear power in general, tanks and the fourth was reserved to McMurdo and it was his responsibil- and nuclear power in Antarctica spe- hold the spent fuel from the reac- ity to conduct "re safety inspections ci"cally. Both the continent and the tor until its level of radioactivity had on the PM-3A plant. He was issued a technology were new frontiers. decreased enough for shipment back dosimeter to wear when he was inside to the United States. Under normal “A lot of things about nuclear power the plant and told to report it if his conditions, these tanks would be sur- were new and not that much was meter showed exposure. rounded by thick concrete to contain known about the dangers. By today’s “Joe told me that when he noticed radiation, but in the sub-freezing standards, none of this would have his meter had registered radiation temperatures at McMurdo, pouring happened,” says Landy’s wife, Pam. exposure, he reported to the plant concrete would be impossible. As a According to Vogel, testing and safety supervisor,” relays Vogel. “The supervi- substitute, the most radioactive parts sor simply threw the dosimeter away of the plant were wrapped in lead measures at McMurdo were not as stringent as they could, or should, have and issued Joe a new one. Joe doesn’t and the tanks were installed in an believe the event was ever docu- excavated area that was subsequently been. “Only the folks who worked in the plant itself were issued dosimeters. mented and, today, he su!ers with "lled with crushed gravel. A building bladder cancer.” was constructed over them. Although Guys who worked on the $ight line or PM-3A produced only about half its in other areas of the station weren’t continued on page 24 '*## &&*#)!(*((**"*"**((**&(' ((')%(*

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Even under the best of conditions, “As far as I know, there is no o#cial solution might have been. “Our drink- closer attention should have been paid record of how much radiation was ing water came from ice they scooped to potential exposure hazards, but released from the PM-3A plant. If up from the base of Observation Hill the plant had a high malfunction rate. radiation release records were kept, — where all that runo! would have During its ten-and-a-half-year lifespan, then where are they and why can’t gone. Big loaders would scoop up numerous malfunctions forced the we see them?” asks Vogel. “The Final the ice and dump it into evaporators, plant to be shut down, modi"ed and Operating Report talks about radiation where it was melted and processed for repaired. leakage and cites that 2.5 gallons per our consumption.” hour had been released, which was According to the Navy’s Final then reduced to 2.5 gallons per day. Operating Report on PM-3A, there Nowhere in the report do they cite for Malfunctions and Shutdown were 438 reported malfunctions at the how many hours or days this went on, As a result of the numerous malfunc- plant — nearly 56 a year – including nor what the total amount of radiation hairline cracks in the reactor lining tions and subsequent shutdowns, the leakage was. I believe the answer is plant was only functionally available and leaking water from the tank sur- that they simply didn’t know.” rounding the reactor. Because of the 72 percent of the time and its un- station’s remote location, replacement Other problems were addressed as reliability required a diesel plant be parts were often constructed onsite they arose. For example, the melting sta!ed year-round as a backup power with whatever materials were available ice around the plant was found to supply. PM-3A wasn’t providing the at the time. Other reports indicate that contain Sodium 24 – a radioactive expected cost savings. when repairs were needed, substan- isotope. To address the concern a During a routine maintenance dard materials were sometimes used, perforated drainage pipe was buried shutdown in 1972, a leak was discov- resulting in additional failures and and a large fan was installed to cool ered in the primary reactor system. potentially more leaks. the gravel surrounding the tanks. Repair would be costly and given its According to “The Story of Nukey Poo,” less-than-stellar performance, it was The report also references 123 published in the Bulletin of Atomic instances of “radiation exposure in decided that PM-3A would be closed Scientists in October of 1978, the fan permanently. The decommission- excess of 350 mRem in seven con- was blowing irradiated air, but testing secutive days.” The report continues ing process continued over the next done at the time indicated that the air seven-and-a-half years and included to explain that the excess exposure samples did not contain unduly large was authorized by the OIC (o#cer in the removal of 11,800 cubic yards, amounts of radiation. Any remaining or 12,200 tons, of radioactive soil charge) and individual exposures re- seepage was stored with radioactive mained below the allowable quarterly from the site in compliance with the waste for return to the U.S. or run Antarctic Treaty. limits. There were "ve reported cases o! to the “non-radioactive” waste of “airborne particulate radioactivity disposal system. “When it was necessary to remove the exposure to personnel” greater than radioactive soil from Observation Hill, allowable limits and “appropriate Vogel says it’s all well and good that they had to blast the soil out of the action was taken in these cases to they attempted to resolve this prob- ground because it was frozen solid. reduce personnel exposure.” lem, but questions how e!ective the This created great clouds of dirt and SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

25 FRA TOD A

(left to right): LC-130s lined up at the Y JANUARY 2012 South Pole, members of VXE-6 in 1976, a control panel at PM-3A

dust, which we all breathed in. The “The Story of Nukey Poo” also out- Simply lying in the dirt may not have soil, which was documented to be lines some of the other problems in posed a life-threatening hazard, but contaminated with Alpha radiation, constructing, operating and decom- the real danger of Alpha radiation was loaded into small dump trucks missioning the PM-3A plant and o!ers exists when the material is ingested. and driven through the unpaved roads some assurances about the safety of And the e!ects of exposure can lie of McMurdo. The soil was not covered the soil being removed from the site: dormant in the body for decades. and, as the trucks bumped along these “Presumably, it is only alpha radiation “My husband was at McMurdo when rough roads, it was common to see that is being emitted by the soil and … the nuclear plant was operating soil dropping out of them. We walked the Navy’s Public Information O#cer and also when they were removing through it and tracked it all over the at Christchurch, New Zealand, said the contaminated soil. He’s told me station and into our quarters. The ‘You would have to lie on the dirt for how the soil dropped o! the trucks wind never stops blowing at McMurdo, three months to acquire as much dose and was often whipped into dust so soil particles were constantly being [radiation] as a chest X-ray.’” clouds. McMurdo personnel ingested blown everywhere,” recalls Vogel.

Connection or Coincidence? The l*er goes on to explain that he w# diagnosed Walter Gle!on, who se"ed at McMurdo from with esophageal cancer in November of 2001, which 1966 to 1969, w# conce$ed about h% own cancer led to radiation and chemother0y treatments and the diagnos%, # we # the cancers at le#t 20 of h% eventual removal of h% esophag1. fo'er Dîp Frîze sh)mates were experiencing. “At the deco2%sioning of VXE-6 and subsequent In June of 2004, he wrote a l*er outlining h% reunio,, I talked with many fo'er members who experiences: had a/o developed some fo' of cancer,” Gle!on’s let- “On several oÌ#io,, I w# caed -on to v%it the ter continues. “The only co2on factor w# a nuclear plant [to] have some heliarc welding pe.o'ed. While power plant at McMurdo Station.” at the nuclear power plant I would be fu$%hed with Gle!on p#sed away in 2006, but h% wife contin - mea/ and aowed to shower. On more than one oÌa- ues to promote the ca1e. She’s done inte"iews with sion, the plant scrambled … requiring the plant to be local news statio, and others to ra%e awareness of reset and brought back on line. The operators of the the problem. “Walter wanted people to get their VA plant said th% posed no threat. We, I wonder.” benefits from th% beca1e there’s so many of them that have cancer or have died,” says A! Gle!on of her late h1band’s eﬀo4s. 26 JANUARY 2012 JANUARY Y A FRA TOD

this through their eyes, noses and improper risk assessments, proving towards the men that were at the sta- mouths,” Pam Landy explains. radiation exposure to the VA has been tion, failed to discover the plume and nearly impossible for the McMurdo to band (sic) tra#c through that area “Between the runo! water used for veterans. which allowed e%uent-containing drinking, cooking and bathing and the radioactive material and fallout to dirt particles we were breathing,” adds According to the Landys, four be tracked in the open water supply, Vogel, “I don’t see how we couldn’t McMurdo veterans noticed a pattern failed to realize the number of sources have ingested iodizing radiation.” and started investigating the potential of radioactive material and the hazards of exposure back in the 1990s. Four The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists story involved with ingesting this material of them "led claims for veterans’ also says that as o#cials drafted a and exposed over 15,000 members of bene"ts, which were denied. They plan to remove the contaminated soil, the U.S. Navy to a hazard of ingesting fought with the VA until their deaths, it was also revealed that “there had radioactive material.” The service- but never received any bene"ts been three occasions when cracks had connection was awarded for the related to radiation exposure. As more appeared in the containment vessels. veteran’s PTSD, but the determination cases of cancer began to appear, more These were welded up, but not before also references that he was diagnosed McMurdo vets sought help, but every they had allowed an undisclosed with cancer in 1993. claim for VA bene"ts has been denied amount of shield water to soak into the – with one very notable exception. back"ll. Neutrons passing through the tank had further activated the back"ll.” In November 2004, one McMurdo Call to Action veteran received a VA determination When Swinney, an Ohio veteran, died “We were never cautioned about this and disability rating that said, “Service following his 16-year battle with can- soil being contaminated with radiation connection for post-traumatic stress cer, Ron Regan, an ABC News reporter or being harmful to our health,” recalls disorder [PTSD] (claimed as due to in Cleveland, publicly questioned Vogel. “Long before the soil removal radiation exposure in Antarctica) has the link between Swinney’s illness began, it was considered OK to climb been established as directly related to and his service at McMurdo. As more Observation Hill as a sort of recreation military service.” complaints about potential radia- area. There was a log book at the tion exposure surfaced, Regan took top, where you could document your The determination goes on to out- the matter to Ohio Senator Sherrod climb. We were never advised to stay line the veteran’s dates of service at Brown, who wrote to then-Defense clear of the area or advised of any risk.” McMurdo and cites the previously Secretary Robert Gates and VA mentioned Final Operating Report, “I believe we were all at a greater risk Secretary Eric Shinseki, requesting an which “shows the water supply from than what we all assumed,” says Jim investigation into the veterans’ claims. 1962 to 1967 was contaminated by Landy. Senator Richard Blumenthal (Conn.) radionuclides from the PM-3A reactor has also joined the campaign to get … The site plan for the location of the answers for the McMurdo veterans. Burden of Proof PM-3A power plant failed to consider the designed e%uent [runo!] contain- Secretary Shinseki’s response to Despite documented malfunctions ing radioactive material and the plume Brown and Blumenthal says the VA and leaks, and eyewitness reports of the e%uent would make down the hill is aware of the McMurdo situation SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

(left to right): Senior Chief Jim Landy, VXE-6 aircrews (circa 1977), Bill Vogel in 27 front of an LC-130, 1977. FRA TOD A Y JANUARY 2012

that 15,000 people were exposed to it could accomplish. But the fact is harmful radiation levels, don’t you that we were exposed and the govern- have the absolute responsibility to at ment should do right by those who least attempt to contact them and are su!ering the consequences.” advise them of the situation? They did nothing and many McMurdo veterans “It’s totally wrong that the government have become sick with cancer and is treating vets the way they are,” adds and references the radiation dose died. And now they want to do more Pam Landy. “We have very dear friends exposure assessment the Department investigation! who have passed away and others, of Defense (DoD) is performing to like my husband, are still "ghting. All “identify Veterans that may have been “Those of us who have worked, re- of them were in Antarctica during this a!ected by the released radiation searched and studied this case believe time frame. Many of our friends fought … The dose reconstruction process the VA is attempting to further deny till they died, but still the VA won’t will assign a dose exposure to each these veterans the bene"ts they need budge.” McMurdo veteran.” and deserve, while refusing to answer our questions,” continues Vogel. “It’s Vogel, who is also the president of According to Shinseki’s letter, the our understanding that the assess- the Antarctic Development Squadron referenced Radiation Dose Exposure ment will focus on vets who were Six (VX/VXE-6) Association, feels Assessment will use a National exposed to radiation as a result of an obligation to his shipmates who Institute for Occupational Safety nuclear weapons testing and we fear participated in Operation Deep and Health (NIOSH) interactive Radio our group’s concerns are not going to Freeze, commonly called the Puckered Epidemiological Program, which be represented.” Penguins. He writes a column for the “provides a statistical estimate on the group’s website, attends reunions and probability that a Veteran’s disease DoD will publicly present their assess- keeps track of those who are ill. The is associated with ionizing radiation ment at the Veterans’ Advisory Board association’s goal is to provide a forum exposure.” on Dose Reconstruction (VBDR) in San in which VX/VXE-6 veterans can share Antonio, Texas, on March 22 and 23, their common experiences. “These statements raise more than 2012. The event is being billed as the a few questions from those of us VBDR Plenary, which implies a full and “Unfortunately, our common bond involved,” says Vogel. “The 2004 complete accounting. The Landys have includes radiation exposure,” muses determination is an o#cial VA ad- been advised that the plenary is open Vogel with a sad smile. “Guys like mission that the PM-3A plant was to the public and that time will be Charlie Swinney served in the squad- responsible for exposing more than available for members of the audience ron for 14 years. He dedicated the 15,000 members of the U.S. Navy to to speak to the board directly. Vogel majority of his military career to the hazard of ingesting radioactive and Pam Landy are both hoping to at- serving in Antarctica and he deserved material at McMurdo Station. I don’t tend. Updates and agenda details will better than he got. I talk with him know what criteria was used in 2004 be available at www.vbdr.org as they every night and like to think he can to make that determination, but why become available. hear me and is pleased with the work isn’t that same criteria being used for we’re doing to make it right for those the numerous McMurdo vets with who are still with us.” cancer? Why are they starting all over Making It Right again with the dose assessment? And “I don’t think there was any intent to when the VA determined that we were expose us to radiation,” says Vogel. exposed to harmful radiation back Lauren Armstrong is the “It was just ignorance. We were in the Contributing Editor and Member in 2004, why didn’t they attempt to Atomic Age and everyone was very make contact with us to warn us and of the FRA Auxiliary. She can be excited about nuclear power and what reached at [email protected]. o!er medical testing? If you’re aware :2:BBB[:2:B[$03DJH

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29 FRA TOD A Y JANUARY 2012 The U.S. Bill of Rights

A DECADE AFTER THE United States declared its independence from Great Britain, it became apparent that the new nation needed more speci$c governing documents than the Articles of Confederation that were penned a'er the Revolutionary War. A Constitutional Convention met in Philadelphia on May 25, 1787, to dra' a new constitution and a'er three months of debate the U.S. Constitution was signed by 38 of the 41 delegates. &e document wouldn’t become binding, however, until it had been rati$ed by nine of the 13 states. By December, $ve states had rati$ed the document, but Massachusetts and several other states had reservations about it, citing its lack of speci$c protections for personal rights. A compromise was reached in February of 1788; Massachusetts and other opposing states would agree to ratify the Constitution if they could be assured that amendments would be made immediately. New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify the Constitution on June 21, 1788, and the country began operating under the new law of the land on March 4, 1789. &e $rst Congress of the United States met later that year and on September 25, 1789, adopted 12 amendments to the U.S. Constitution. &is Bill of Rights sought to guarantee the freedoms of speech, press, assembly, and exercise of religion; the right to fair legal procedure and to bear arms; and that powers not delegated to the federal government were reserved for the states and the people. When Virginia rati$ed 10 of the 12 original amendments on December 15, 1791, it provided the two-thirds majority vote among the states needed for the amendments to become law. One of the two original amendments not rati$ed addressed the population system of determining representation and was never enacted. &e second prevented laws that a"ect congressional salaries from taking e"ect until the beginning of the next session of Congress. &is amendment was rati$ed in 1992, making it the 27th and most recent amendment to the Constitution — more than 200 years a'er the Bill of Rights became law.

#e Bill of Rights Amendment 1 — Freedom of speech, press and religion Amendment 2 — &e right to bear arms Amendment 3 — Protection of homeowners from quartering troops, except during war. Amendment 4 — Rights and protections against unreasonable search and seizure Amendment 5 — Rights of due process of law, protection against double jeopardy, self incrimination Amendment 6 — Rights of a speedy trial by jury of peers and rights of accused Amendment 7 — Rights to trial by jury in civil cases Amendment 8 — Protection from cruel and unusual punishment, excessive bail Amendment 9 — Protection of rights not speci$ed in the Bill of Rights Amendment 10 — States’ rights and the power of the states

&e Bill of Rights protects our individual rights and forms the cornerstone to our freedoms. FRA en- courages all citizens to take a moment to re!ect upon the many blessings of liberty we enjoy.

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Contact Don Ledbury, 203 Monte Ter., Graduates of Recruit Training Center FRA TOD Monticello, FL 32344. (RTC) Orlando

We are looking for RTC Orlando A Crew at Naval Exam Center Y graduates, all years, male and female, JANUARY 2012 I’m looking for anyone who served at to participate in the design and fielding the Naval Exam Center at Great Lakes, of a Lone Sailor Navy Memorial at Blue Ill., 1949 to 1954. Please contact Henry Jacket Park, Orlando, Fla. This is the Worrells at henryeworrells@embarqmail. site of the former RTC “Grinder” and com. USS Blue Jacket. Little identifies the GM3 Larry Mills role of RTC in the transition of civilians He was stationed aboard the USS Blue from many parts of this great nation (DD-744) in Long Beach, Calif., January into patriotic, loyal, and professional 1955. Contact J.R.Buker at buje1257@ U.S. Navy Sailors. Contact SCPO Mike frontier.com or P.O. Box 872, Wellsboro, Phillips at P.O. Box 782111, Orlando, Shipmates from USN Hospital Annex, Pa 16901. FL 32826 or visit www.lonesailorfl.com Imola, Napa, Calif. for more information. 1944 to 1945. Please contact James Richard (Dick) Robinson A. Atwood, 127 Clipper Bay Rd., He was an IC electrician who was USS Ticonderoga CVA 14, VAQ 130 Brunswick, GA 31523. later selected for LDO and deep Det 14 submergence program. I retired in Shipmates that were aboard during July PR1 Joe Young 1975 as ICCS(SS) from the Submarine and August of 1969. Please contact Last known duty station was VP-34 in Force and my last command was the AT2 Alan Banek, abanek2215@gmail. Trinidad, BWI. Please contact Marvin R.B. Russell (SSN-687). Would like to com or 301 Cotton Lane, Alexander R. Kubler, 4 Chatham St., Barnegat, NJ hear from him or anyone who knows his City, Al. 35010. 08005. whereabouts. Contact Ron Ryland at Carrier Crew in Vietnam, 1968 [email protected] I’m looking for anyone on board Patrol Frigate (PF) Sailors, 1945–1953 These notices are published on a space available the carrier stationed off the coast of Please contact Joseph Bays at 206- basis. Notices must be submitted in writing. Vietnam in May of 1968, who can 293-8180 or by e-mail at jhbays@ E-mail [email protected] or mail your request to: FRA, recall the choppers that took all 50 of earthlink.net. Looking for…, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA, 22314. the Marine Corps KIAs from Khe Sanh. REUNIONS

All Icebreaker Muster USS Diphda (AKA-59) USS Skate (SSN-578) May 13–18, 2012, Amelia Island, May 6–10, 2012, Tucson, AZ. Contact September 2–9, 2012, Norfolk, VA. FL. Contact Louis Lariccia, 1 Judy (Coogan) Bentley, 21632 N. Contact Ray Fritz, 5923 Lake Valley 623-308-0093. Chipmunk Trail, Woodhaven, MI 48183, Road, Lake Wylie, SC 29710, 803-619- 734-675-0148, [email protected]. 1121, [email protected]. Marine Corps Aviation Recon Association (MCARA) USS Grenadier (SS 525, SS 210) USS Towers (DDG-9) May 10–14, 2012, Nashville, TN. May 20–23, 2012, Myrtle Beach, September 11–15, 2012, Boise, Idaho. Contact Dana Nachtrieb, 719-207- SC. Contact Reggie Thurlow, 1584 Contact Bill Lobb, 3853 S. Carbondale, 4399, [email protected]. N Meadowcrest Blvd, Crystal River FL Meridian, Idaho 83642, 208-703-8367, 34429, 800-418-9195, [email protected]. USS Alamo ( LSD-33 ) [email protected]. April 22–24, 2012, San Antonio, TX. USS Whitehurst (DE-634) Contact Gary W. Moss, 5670 West USS Iwo Jima (LPH-2/LHD-7) October 9–11, 2012, Washington, DC. Shore Drive, Pensacola, FL 32526, June 6–10, 2012, Mclean, VA. Contact Contact Jim Howe, 113 Meadow Dr, 850-944-3499, [email protected]. Robert G. McAnally, 152 Frissell Street, Chehalis WA 98532-9667, 360-740- Hampton, VA 23663, 757-723-0317, 4229, [email protected]. USS Beatty (DD-756) [email protected]. September 10–16, 2012, Portland, USS/USCG Edisto Reunion Maine. Contact Tom Accuosti, PO Box USS New Jersey (BB-62)/USS New April 22–26, 2012, Indialantic Beach, 805, Southbury, CT 06488, 203-592- Jersey Veterans Organization FL. Contact Glenn Smith, P.O. Box 8556, [email protected]. August 8–12, 2012, Cherry Hill, NJ. 747, Mims, FL 32754, 321-269-5637, Contact Ernest J. Dalton, 7143 Rolling gdsmith@cﬂ.rr.com. USS Caiman (SS-323) Hills Lane, San Antonio, TX 78227, May 7–10, 2012, San Antonio, TX. 210-275-7886, [email protected]. Contact Douglas W. Smith, 3835 B Maple Ave., Bremerton, WA 98310, USS Robison (DDG 12) 360-377-4763, [email protected]. September 6–9, 2012, Charleston, SC. Contact Jim Saeugling, 11096 E Members can post reunions online at www.fra.org, Roundup Dr, Dewey, AZ 86327-5400, submit to [email protected] or mail to: FRA Reunions, 928-775-0991, [email protected]. 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314. NEWS FROM THE BRANCHES

BRANCH 126 JACKSONVILLE, FLA. JANUARY 2012 JANUARY

Y Then-RPSE Bobby Smith (far left) and Branch A President J.J. Thomas (far right) initiated two new members, Henry Moreland and Herbert FRA TOD Pearce. Welcome, Shipmates!

BRANCH 15 WALHALLA, S.C. Branch President Tom Jurkovich (center) and Shipmate Homer Moss (right) spoke with visitors to FRA’s information table during Octoberfest BRANCH 41 ROANOKE, VA. 2011 festivities. Branch President Joe Black (left) congratulates Shipmate Billy Pugh on his 40 years of continuous FRA membership.

BRANCH 202 COLUMBIA, S.C. Branch Treasurer Tommy Brown (left) received his 45-year continuous FRA membership pin BRANCH 118 CAPE CORAL, FLA. from Branch President James Turner. Shipmates Darrell, LaBarbera, Hope Hospice Shipmate Brown is 91 years old and attends Volunteer Rosana Hutchison and Branch branch meetings regularly. He had three ships President Dick Phillips honored William Gallant blown out from under him at Pearl Harbor and (seated left), a veteran at the facility. He was has been the branch treasurer for decades. joined by his friend Ray Malles (seated right). NEWS FROM THE BRANCHES

33 FRA TOD A Y JANUARY 2012

BRANCH 115 ALLENTOWN, PA. BRANCH 113 STOCKTON, CALIF. FRA’s Director of Membership Development Shipmate Daniel Crespo was recognized Penny Collins congratulates Shipmate Joseph S. for his 50 years of continuous FRA Wright on his retirement from the U.S. Coast membership by Branch President Zeb Guard. Wright received a Certiﬁcate of Motley. Appreciation from FRA’s East Coast Region.

BRANCH 234 ANDERSON, S.C. Following a presentation of $1,000 to the Electric City Young Marines Unit, (l to r) Shipmate Sanders, Branch President Franklin Collins, Shipmates Bill McGregor and Leon Boyd pose with the future Marines and their Unit Commander Stephen Graham.

BRANCH 20 GROTON, CONN. Shipmate Joseph Stoklosa, 95, received his 60-year FRA membership pin and certiﬁcate from RPNEng Phil Justin. Joe is the last surviving shipmate who signed the documents to purchase the Branch 20 Home. BRANCH 5 NORFOLK, VA. To submit a photo for News From the Branches, please e-mail a photo as an PNP Tom Leisher (left) presents a 55-year attachment in jpeg format to [email protected] or mail a high-quality photograph to FRA Today, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Please include a brief continuous FRA membership pin to PRPEC description of the photograph and include the names of those pictured. Laser Ralph Holcombe at a recent branch meeting. prints and scanned copies of photographs cannot be accepted. TAPS In Memoriam

34 NAME BRANCH NAME BRANCH

Adams, Robert S, GMGC, USN 028 Hermoso, Cecilio E., USN 099 Adkins, Robert D, ADJ3, USN MAL Hines, John R, CPO, USN MAL Allen, Chester L, CWO4, USN MAL Huff, Ormond H, EMC, USN 366

JANUARY 2012 JANUARY Alton, Frank G, CPO(SS), USN MAL Hughes, Joseph V, BMC, USN 309 Y A Ambrose, Walter R, MM1, USN 006 Arnold, Arthur A, BM1, USCG 124 James, William G, TSGT, 159

FRA TOD Arnsdorff, Sam B, ATC, USN 312 Jenkins, Harry J, ADR1, USN MAL Jennings, Melvin L, YN1, USN MAL Barr, Jack H, ADC, USN 245 Johnson, Johnny , E. T., TMCS(SS), Barratt, Norris S, MGYSGT, USMC MAL USN 245 Bartlett, Henry B, BMCS, USN 007 Johnson, Lyman, DK1, USN 049 Baynard, Bobby G, POC, USN 057 Johnson, Ralph G, LT, USN 120 NAME BRANCH Beckwith, Gordon E, MUC, USN 024 Joseph, Leroy, SKCS, USN 281 Berger, Donald L, EMC, USN 047 Tucker, Paul J., SGT, USMC 029 Boyer, George, PNC, USN 038 Kurtz, Frank J, CWO, USN 004 Vettel, Edward J., RDM3, USN 269 Calato, Salvatore, CWO3, USNR MAL Langlois, Russell A, EN1, USN 342 Vindhurst, Harold P, EOCS, USN 281 Callais, Charles C, GMGC, USN MAL Larson, Robert B, EMCM, USN 268 Carr, John A., MM1, USN 210 Latimer, Richard L, 1STSGT, USMC 047 Wager, George F, AMHC, USN 066 Cebulski, Anthony A, AOC, USN 126 Lee, Ronald S, HTC, USN MAL Waldman, Frederick A, RMC(SS), Chapman, John, AE1, USNR 093 Lespron, Jesus R, ADJC, USN 312 USN MAL Clark, James W, CGM, USN 005 Walker, Ernest, YNCS, USN MAL Cogburn, John H, PO1, USN 047 Macawile, Felix B, CPO, USN 046 Watkins, Ralph H, MSGT, USMC MAL Cronce, Edward W, AVCM, USN 099 Macklin, Edward R, MS1, USN MAL Watters, William D, ADRC, USN 085 Crossno, Alvin L., BM2, USN 094 Marine, Melbourne M, CMCS, USN 223 Watts, Donald, LCDR, USN MAL Marks, Kenneth C, AEC, USN 120 Weir, James F, BMC, USN 009 De wispelaere, Edmond, MSC, USN 245 Mellin, Frank L, ADRC, USN 010 Welch, John J, PO2, USN 022 Deas, James E, ADCS, USN 086 Milam, Lacy, SH1, USN 366 Wersebe, Delbert A, QMC, USN 203 Degraffenreid, Floyd, RMCS, USN 032 Mimnich, Walter P, GMC, USN 115 Willard, Russell R, ENC, USN MAL Derry, Thomas, QMC, USN 293 Moore, Clarence C, AMC, USN 124 Williams, Albert L, LT, USN 295 Dias, Freeman, AOC, USN MAL Diblasi, Richard, POC, USNR 020 Nelson, Harlan C, AOC, USN MAL Drapczak, Stanley, ADC, USN 124 Names in red indicate 50 year continuous members. Driscoll, Joshua C, BT2, USN 219 Osiecki, Edward J., ABCM, USN MAL

Eadie, Robert W, AD1, USN 020 Peterson, Charles F, AMSC, USN 273 Eaton, Gerald E, HM1, USN 001 Phillips, Donald D, LT, USN 363 Edmonds, B L, AOCM, USN 126 Phillips, Robert L, YNCM, USN 309 Edwards, William L, LCDR, USN 017 Ellington, Bernice W, MCPO, USN 086 Rebholz, R J, CWO2, USN 182 Evans, John L, IMC, USN 292 Riddle, Homer C, LT, USN 029 Risher, William F, USMC 026 Faulkner, Wallace N, PCCM, USN 290 Rossa, Ray R, HMC, USN MAL Figueroa, Michael, CTIC, USN 295 Fleming, Arnold E, AMS1, USN MAL Sandifer, Homer A, PHCS, USN MAL Foster, Paul E, EM1, USN 099 Schmitz, William W, AMH1, USN 163 Scott, James F, SKCS, USN 011 Gibbs, Randolph H, EMC, USN 099 Skillman, Francis R, RM1, USN 168 Glasser, William James, MMC, USN 026 Slaughter, Mike, AM1, USN 070 Grobe, Lee J, OMC, USN 018 Soblotne, Raymond William, BM1, Grove, Robert S, AEC, USN 124 USN 005 Gwyn, Leo O, USN 267 Staley, Robert V, HMC, USN 101 Stetson, Frederick M, MSCS, USN 037 Haberski, Albert S, AT1, USN 071 Surma, Edward S, YNC, USN 027 Harder, Kenneth E, CWO4, USN 050 Hargrave, Paul E, CDR, USN 049 Teghtmeyer, Francis E, AVCM, USN 230 Hawkins, Robert L, ADCS, USN MAL Tonnessen, Harry O, TDC, USN 210 Hebrock, John W, BMC, USN 040 Trombley, Daniel J, CS1, USN 312 -%8*BBB[-%8*B[$03DJH

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IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Jitterbug is owned by GreatCall, Inc. Your invoices will come from GreatCall. All rate plans and services require the purchase of a Jitterbug phone and a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage and service is not available everywhere. Other charges and restrictions may apply. Screen images simulated. There are no additional fees to call Jitterbug’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. Monthly rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges. Prices and fees subject to change. 1We will refund the full price of the Jitterbug phone if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will apply for each minute over 30 minutes. The activation fee and shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug is a registered trademark of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics America, Inc. and/or its related entities. Copyright © 2011 GreatCall, Inc. Copyright © 2011 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved. FRA AUXILIARY NEWS

36 Message from the New England Regional President

THE LEAVES HAVE CHANGED color, there’s a cool nip in the air and the Holidays have come and gone. &e members of the New England Region were hard at work helping those in need during the Holidays. JANUARY 2012 JANUARY Y A &ey made baskets of food to be delivered to needy families in their communities and have also collected canned goods for local food pantries in

FRA TOD Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut and Rhode Island. Members of Unit 66, South Shores, South Weymouth, MA, collected and $lled boxes with playing cards, notepads, beef jerky, holiday candy and hygiene products which were sent DEBRA BARNES to our Men and Women in Afghanistan. &e auxiliary members also visited and Regional President New England gave gi's to the patients in our veterans’ hospitals. &ey donated toys and monies to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. I know these children have enjoyed a gi' from “Santa.” Our wonderful auxiliary members are so generous and giving of themselves to those who are less fortunate. &is year the National President Gini Larson has chosen for her project the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. I know there are members in our region and in other regions who had one of these diseases. We also have members who have it now. Let’s help $nd a cure for these diseases by donating to the National President’s Project. &e Units in the New England Region will give their all to help in these worthy causes. As we embark on this New Year let us remember our cardinal principles; Loyalty, Protection and Service. I am so proud to represent the New England Region as their Regional President again this year. &ank you members of the New England Region, Happy New Year and Hallelujah!

New England Region at National Convention in Kansas City, MO. New England PRP Robert Gallagher, Branch Left to Right: Past National Chaplain Ellen Kotheimer, Quonset, Unit 42, Davisville, RI; PNP 3, Boston, MA, presented Debra Barnes with Georgia Gallagher, South Shores, Unit 66, South Weymouth, MA., Marion Sullivan, Unit 20, her Regional President’s cover at installation Groton, CT and PRP New England Cookie Loveless, Pinetree, Unit 156, Brunswick, ME. in Kansas City, MO. $7:BBB[$7:B[$03DJH

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R.7/2*4'ys 50069 7((+0+..1#&>1.10+#.'+)*65, VA 23834 PERIODICAL POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO:

MEMBER SERVICES FRA 125 N. WEST STREET ALEXANDRIA, VA 22314-2754