14 Interview with MCPOCG Skip Bowen

SENATE PASSES FY 2007 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT! AUGUST 2 0 0 6

14 Interview with MCPOCG Skip Bowen 20 2007 Slate of Officers We were there when you landed on the northern coast of France.

We were there when you returned to the Philippine shore.

We were there when you fought in Korea and Vietnam.

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

We were there then.

We will always be there.

Proudly serving those who serve.

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

It is in our darkest hours when you shine the brightest.

Semper Paratus. While 69 percent of you were victims of the hurricanes yourselves, the Coast Guard handled six years of search and rescue operations in one week, and saved 33,520 lives in 15 days. More than 1,700 FRA Shipmates were affected by the hurricanes; we are all grateful for your tremendous work.

FRA is always ready to serve the Coast Guard. Thank you for all you do. Naval affairs august 2006 2006 7 14 Volume 85 Number 8 85 Number Volume AUGUST kip” Bowen at the Change of S r e v co Charles “

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Departments 14 Featured From the editor

It is indeed an exciting time to be National Officers/Board Of Directors the new member of FRA’s Editorial Nat’l President Edgar M. Zerr, Poway Valley Branch 70 Team, with so many great things Nat’l Vice President Jerry L. Sweeney, Navy Dept. Branch 181 happening with Naval Affairs and Nat’l Executive Sec. Joseph L. Barnes, Navy Dept. Branch 181 finance Officer Paul Rigby

august 2006 our other communications to members! I look forward to getting to Junior PNP George R. Kaye, Ocean View Branch 60 know you over the coming years and Regional Presidents getting input from you on topics of

Naval affairs Naval New England Roy Grayden, Granite State Branch 338 interest and importance to you. Northeast James R. Smith, Steel City Branch 253 One enhancement I am most east Coast Paul Gunther, Triangle Branch 182 excited about is the expanded edi- southeast Ronald Hoadley, Foothills Branch 234 torial calendar. A monthly feature North Central Donald Gage, Mo-Kan Branch 161 section will become the mainstay san reddy south Central Don Larson, Corpus Christi Branch 94 of Naval Affairs, providing an in- Editor Southwest Augustive Hermes, Chula Vista Branch 61 depth look at major issues impacting you. Each month, a feature article West Coast Virgil Courneya, High Sierra Branch 274 Northwest Rick Snider, Bremerton Branch 29 will provide valuable information, written in an interesting and enter- Nat’l. Parliamentarian PNP Jim Eblen, San Diego Branch 9 taining fashion. This month’s spotlight falls on the U.S. Coast Guard, as Nat’l Chaplain Robert Owens, San Diego Branch 9 it celebrates its birthday. Contributing Editor Lauren Armstrong brings us an exclusive interview with new Master Chief Petty Officer of the Active Duty Advisory Council Coast Guard (MCPOCG) Charles Bowen on the evolving and expand- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Joe Campa ing role of the U.S. Coast Guard. Additionally, this issue holds a special Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps John Estrada tribute to the United States Coast Guard from FRA, celebrating the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Charles Bowen service’s 216th birthday on 4 August. An additional birthday greeting from many of our partners and friends is also enclosed. Reserve Advisory Council More active duty news can now be found in our new On Watch Force Master Chief of the Naval Reserve David Pennington page; this month we provide a peek into our upcoming focus on USMC Reserve Force Sergeant Major Robin Dixon

health care. Look for the next edition of our online quarterly maga- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve Force Jeffrey Smith zine at www.fra.org/onwatch soon. Most of all, remember, this is your magazine. Your feedback is important to us so that we can constantly improve the quality of this Naval Affairs Magazine publication. We encourage you to contribute to Shipmate Forum, Publisher FRA Looking for…, News from the Branches, and share your accounts about Editor San Reddy how fellow Shipmates are making a Contributing Editor Lauren Armstrong difference in their communities. San Reddy joins the Naval Affairs Business/Advertising Eileen Murphy I look forward to serving you. team as Editor, bringing with him vast Design and Art Direction experience in journalism and public FIREBRAND, Alexandria, VA www.firebrandstudios.com relations. Design Director Scott Rodgerson Production Manager Sandy Jones

Naval Affairs (ISSN 0028-1409) is published monthly by FRA, 125 N. West St., Upcoming features 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 Naval Affairs does not constitute an endorsement by the FRA or its representatives. Postmaster: September Health Send address changes to: Member Services, FRA, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2754. Naval Affairs is published in the interests of all current and former enlisted personnel of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. October Interview with the new MCPON Eligible non-members are not entitled to subscription rates. Established USN Birthday 1 November 1923. Title registered with U.S. Patent Office. FRA Administrative Headquarters: 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2754 Phone: 703-683-1400, 800-FRA-1924 • Fax: 703-549-6610 • E-Mail: [email protected] November National Museum of the U.S. Marine Corps www . fra . org USMC Birthday Veterans Day & FRA’s Birthday

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I am very pleased to introduce the updated look and feel You will note changes in the placement and number of of Naval Affairs! As you read this month’s issue, you will advertisements in the magazine as well, which allows for certainly notice a fresh appearance and several expanded more article spreads and greater use of photos. The new features. This enhanced format is a direct result of the look, themed editorial plan, and expanded distribution

august 2006 readership survey conducted last year, as is crucial to our marketing efforts. Our well as feedback we get from shipmates new plan for advertisers will also result in through phone calls, letters and e-mails improved revenue with a reduced num- throughout the year. While quality of ber of ad pages, giving you the benefit of Naval affairs Naval content will continue to be the hallmark more content and a positive impact on of this publication, we hope the fresh de- the budget! sign and layout will not only reflect the I would also like to take this opportu- energy of our dynamic organization, but nity to introduce some changes in FRA also make information more accessible. staff. We are pleased to have San Reddy All of your favorite departments join Naval Affairs as the new Editor. He are still present, and we have ex- comes to FRA with extensive experience panded the magazine to provide you in the communications field, spanning more content by making the publica- from working at the Chicago Tribune to tion consistently 40 pages. The addi- Joe Barnes working for a news agency in South Africa tional pages allow us to broaden the FRA’s National Executive Secretary where he interviewed then Secretary scope of Naval Affairs. This month that of State Colin Powell, the Clinton scope includes an interview with the 10th Master Chief Administration’s Secretary of Defense William Cohen and Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, Skip Bowen who visit- many other important military and political leaders. ed National Headquarters shortly after assuming his new We are very pleased that Lauren Armstrong, who skill- responsibilities. As an FRA shipmate, MCPOCG Bowen fully served as Editor, Naval Affairs for the past seven-and- a-half years is continuing as a member of the headquarters team, albeit in a more limited, but nevertheless important This enhanced format is a direct result role as Contributing Editor. Each month, you will read a feature article submitted by Lauren (see From the Editor on of the readership survey conducted last page 4 for the coming editorial calendar). Her first proj- year, as well as feedback we get from ect is the feature interview with MCPOCG Bowen, and I’m sure you will agree that retaining her on staff is a win for Shipmates through phone calls, letters everyone! Overseeing production and advertising is Eileen Murphy, and e-mails throughout the year. FRA’s Director of Marketing and Communications. Both San and Lauren are working closely with her and their collective and formidable professional experience, coupled with the has a unique understanding of how FRA works with the design talents of FIREBRAND, have been combined to pro- services. The meeting provided a great look at the future duce a dynamic look and lively content for Naval Affairs. of the Coast Guard and tremendous insight on how FRA Additional enhancements are envisioned in the future can continue to enhance its advocacy work — and even and I welcome your input as you explore the magazine some ways in which we can expand our presence within the each month. Coast Guard community. Distribution of Naval Affairs will also consistently include key Sea Service leaders, Department of Defense officials and elected officials and their staff on Capitol Hill, which will help increase awareness of FRA’s legislative agenda and other important programs. The OnWatch page is another new feature within Naval Affairs, providing information pertinent to active duty and Joe Barnes is FRA’s National Executive Secretary and Chairman of the National Reservist FRA shipmates. This will be a great supplement Committee on Legislative Service. A member of Navy Department Branch 181, he is for the quarterly online version of OnWatch, found at www. also an advisor to the National Committees on Budget and Finance and Membership fra.org/onwatch. and Retention. Shipmate forum

AFRH in D.C.? Naval affairs Whoever Margaret P. St. Jean is (Naval Affairs, June 2006), I completely disagree with (her). No way would I want to live in the Washington DC area. I know

about Gulfport and I do agree it is definitely in a high hurricane area. So maybe august 2006 they should build one farther north, but definitely not in Washington. I pres- ently do not live in an AFRH, but I am retired and 69 years old. There may be those cultural facilities as she said, but how far would your relatives have to travel to see you. John D. Holtwick, USN (Ret.)

Salute with Cover BM1 Bloomer, my company commander in Boot Camp, way back in 1955, taught me one does not salute without a cover, therefore, if one is not covered, they do not salute anybody or anything. If the occasion calls for some sort of recognition, stand, face the subject, and render honors by placing one’s hand over one’s heart. If the occasion calls for some sort I was taught that in the United States Navy, proper of recognition, stand, face the dress required one to remove their cover when entering a subject, and render honors by building, unless they were on The BlueJackets’ an official task. placing one’s hand over one’s heart. Manual States: I do not know what RADM Gallo has said in Saluting the flag in regards to this matter, as re- civilian dress ferred to in your reader’s letters in the June 2006 issue. As soon as I recognized If you are wearing a hat, remove the person who is trying to change the world for us peons was a United States it with your right hand and hold Naval Admiral, my first thought was that some poor bloke didn’t jump to atten- it over your chest with your right tion and give him a salute as he passed by. I will say this to the Admiral — “Sir, if you want to salute anybody, anywhere, anytime, you can do it. Just don’t try hand over your heart. If you are to change my way of life to emulate yours.” not wearing a hat, place your right Rolan Conoley, ENC, USN (Ret.) hand over your heart. Women in civilian dress salute in the same Hand Salute manner also. I live in a retirement community in Central Florida and we have our own Do not merely stand at attention. Veterans Organization within our community. We have a membership of Standing simply at attention is the slightly over one hundred from all branches of the service. I read a portion of RADM Gallo’s letter at our May meeting and suggested way aliens are supposed to honor we adopt the hand salute vs. the hand over the heart as our policy. My sugges- the American flag. American citi- tion was approved. zens not only stand at attention, During our Memorial Day service — I, and most of the other Veterans but salute by placing hat or hand present, rendered the hand salute while Taps was played. It was much more over the heart. rewarding. Hopefully this practice will spread nationwide. For those interested in reading RADM Gallo’s QMCS (SS) Theodore W. Beals, USN (Ret.) letter on veterans saluting, it can be found in the May 2006 issue of Naval Affairs. Submissions Send Shipmate Forum letters to: Editor, FRA, 125 N. West St. Alexandria, VA 22314. E-mail FRA’s guidelines on saluting can be found in submissions may be sent to [email protected]. Please include “Shipmate Forum” in the subject line. FRA reserves the C&BL, Section 1508-1509. the right to select and edit letters for publication. Letters published in Shipmate Forum reflect the opinions and views of FRA members. They do not necessarily reflect the official position of the FRA as a whole. FRA is not responsible for the accuracy of letter content. on & off capitol hill

NDAA Freight Trains on Schedule…so far If the House and Senate defense authorization spending including budget resolutions and appropriation bills, limit bills were freight trains, they would be on schedule to make the size and freight of this train. An early start on nego-

august 2006 it to the President’s desk for signature on tiations doesn’t automatically mean an time. Both houses have approved their agreement will be concluded before the versions of the spending bill selecting, start of the new fiscal year on 1 October. what they believe, should be on the train. With this being an election year, many Naval affairs Naval Before they make it to the President elected officials are eager to return home for signature, they must come together and campaign for re-election, creating in conference committee where mem- a sense of urgency to put the NDAA on bers from both houses will decide what the fast track, and complete the defense freight will be on the final train coming budget well before the election. However, from Capitol Hill to the White House for early completion of their work on the approval. The engineers (leadership in NDAA may be derailed because of the both houses) can now start negotiating wide disparity between the House and on the differences and come up with a Senate versions. final, compromise defense spending bill. John Davis The following table compares the two It’s impossible to put in every item ev- FRA’s Director of bills (S. 2766 and HR 2507) as they relate eryone wants. The budget constraints, Legislative Programs to issues of importance to FRA members:

Comparison of the two NDAA bills

Issue Senate House Comments

PAY Increases pay 2.2% Increases pay 2.7% Both bills have similar provisions effective 1 January 2007. effective 1 January 2007. for targeted pay increases for senior enlisted.

TRICARE FEES One-time enrollment fee of $25 ($40 No increases in any TRICARE fees Both bills mandate Government for families) for TRICARE Standard until 31 December 2007. Accounting Office (GAO) study of and prohibits TRICARE Prime fee Department of Defense (DoD) health increases until 30 September 2007. care costs. National President Standard beneficiaries can enroll at Ed Zerr testified before the Senate any time. Armed Services Committee, Person- nel Subcommittee earlier in the year opposing TRICARE fee increases until other cost-saving procedures are fully implemented.

PHARMACY Requires use of mail-order for Raises copays to $6 generic and $16 Both bills eliminate maintenance medications and freezes for brand name (copays are currently copays for formulary drugs by retail pharmacy copays until 31 $3 for generics and $9 for brand mail-order. December 2007. name in both systems; copays cover a 1-month supply in the retail system; 3-month supply by mail-order).

SBP SBP paid-up date changed to 1 Has no similar provision. The FRA legislation team will push October 2006 from 1 October 2008, for this provision to be kept in the and repeals requirement to deduct final NDAA. DIC payments from SBP benefits. On & off capitol hill

Comparison of the two NDAA bills Naval affairs

Issue Senate House Comments august 2006

CONCURRENT Authorizes an end to the benefit offset Has no similar provision. Unfortunately, another FRA sup- RECEIPT on military retirees deemed 100% ported amendment filed in the “unemployable” by the VA retroac- Senate addressing concurrent tively back to 1 January 2005. receipt for medically-retired retirees with less than 20 years service was not approved. The FRA legislative team will be working to obtain full concurrent receipt for all veterans.

RESERVE HEALTH Makes improvements to TRICARE Authorize TRICARE coverage (effective FRA supports increased access to INSURANCE Reserve coverage and limits FY07 1 October 2008) for all drilling Guard TRICARE benefits for Reservists and TRICARE premium increase for Guard/ and Reserve members at the same their families. Reserve members at 2.2% premium rates now available for mobilized active duty; direct a Pentagon study of allowing mobilized members to continue a private employer’s coverage for their families, subsidized by the DoD. No premium increase before 31 December 2007.

RESERVE Lowers the minimum retirement age Has no similar provision. FRA supports reducing the age when RETIREMENT for Reservists and Guard from 60 to Reserve members are eligible for 50, allowing 90 days of active duty retirement pay, particularly those service to permit 90 days of earlier who have experienced extended retirement. mobilizations.

RESERVE MGIB Allows Reservists to draw on their Has no similar provision. FRA supports enhancements to MGIB MGIB benefits up to 10 years after for Reserves to provide incentives for service just like active duty members. young citizens to enlist and remain Currently Reservists can only use in the Reserves. MGIB benefits while they are in the Reserves.

PREDATORY Prohibits creditors from imposing an Has no similar provision. FRA Legislative Team met with Hill LENDING annual percentage rate higher than staff and other interested parties to 36 percent when extending consumer make sure this was included in the credit to service members or their Senate NDAA. dependants.

COMMUNICATION Reduced telephone rates for deployed Service personnel in Afghanistan or FRA supports this to reduce stress on and hospitalized service members. Iraq will be provided free postage active duty enlisted personnel. for mailing letters, sound and video recordings, and ground parcels up to 15 lbs. at no cost.

NAVY Has no name change provision. Changes name of Sec. of Navy to FRA strongly supports the Department Sec. of Navy and Marine Corps. name change.

EDUCATION Authorize $35 million in aid to school Authorize $50 million in aid to school Supplemental Impact Aid Funding ASSISTANCE districts impacted by military popula- districts impacted by military popula- via DoD enhances program funding tions, with an additional $10 million tions, with an additional $15 million under the Department of Education. for districts affected by base closures for districts affected by base closures or other military population changes. or other military population changes.

On & off capitol hill

Comparison of the two NDAA bills Naval affairs

Issue Senate House Comments august 2006

UNIFORMED Has provisions to eliminate the 10 Has no similar provision. The FRA Legislative team is work- SERVICES year rule; allows for DFAS cost-of- ing to eliminate inequities in the FORMER SPOUSE living adjustments if ordered by court USFSPA. PROTECTION ACT and allows targeted member to waive DFAS notification requirements.

EXTRA POV Has no POV provision. Has a provision allowing military The FRA Legislative team met with personnel to have two POVs shipped Hill staff to strategize on how to keep if they are anywhere in US, including this provision in the final NDAA. US territories. Currently service members are allowed two POVs inside continental US and only one anywhere else.

INVOLUNTARY Authorize military services to offer Similar provision, except maximum Dismissal from honorable service as SEPARATIONS payments up to four times involuntary payment is two times involuntary a result of downsizing has caused INCENTIVES separation pay amounts to encourage separation pay. some mid-career service members to voluntary separations to achieve force seek opportunities in the private sec- reduction requirements in designated tor. FRA supports incentives to ease skills or other populations. the transition for service members with more than 6 years but less than 20 years of service.

ID CARD Require military services to issue per- Require a Defense Department study manent military ID cards to disabled of issuing permanent ID cards for family members who are medically permanently disabled family mem- certified as being permanently depen- bers. In addition, require a Defense dent on a retired service member. Department review of alternatives to printing Social Security numbers on military ID cards.

DAMAGED Require Defense Department to Has no similar provision. This issue has been a concern for HOUSEHOLD provide full replacement value for several years and FRA strongly sup- GOODS lost or damaged household goods ports immediate implementation of in contracts with movers by 1 March full replacement value. 2008.

CHILDHOOD Authorize a three-year pilot program Has no similar provision. Quality education is an instrumental EDUCATION to promote early childhood education retention tool, and FRA supports for military children affected by enhancements in education benefits military deployment or relocation of for military children impacted by military units. military deployment or relocation of military units.

PAY FOR Require audit of wounded members’ Allow services to waive recoupment Both bills provide some improve- WOUNDED pay accounts and report to Congress actions on wounded soldiers’ pay for ments for Reservists without de- SOLDIERS on actions taken to correct erroneous up to five years after separation. pendents using BAH; increases end payments or recoupments; require strength for Army (30,000), Marines toll-free call line for use by members (5,000), and the Guard (17,000). and next-of-kin experiencing pay problems. On & off capitol hill

12 VA Recovers Stolen Data House Passes 2007 Defense Appropriation Bill Veterans Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson announced on June 29, 2006 that the The House passed the 2007 Defense

august 2006 stolen laptop and hard drive contain- Appropriation Bill (H.R. 5631) that would ing personal information of 27 million provide $427.4 billion, including $50 bil- veterans and military personnel had lion for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. been recovered intact. FBI officials The measure would provide $4.1 billion Naval affairs Naval said a preliminary review of the less than the Administration requested, equipment by its forensic but more than $19 billion more than the teams determined that 2006 appropriation. the data base had not The bill would provide for 2.2 percent been accessed since it pay increase even though the House was stolen, but more tests authorized a 2.7 percent pay increases were needed. Nicholson said the laptop and also makes provision for targeted and hard drive were turned into the FBI by an unidenti- pay increases for senior enlisted person- fied person in response to the offer of a $50,000 reward. He said the VA’s offer nel and warrant officers as requested in of free credit monitoring would remain in effect until the investigation was the Administration’s budget. Senate ap- fully completed. Shortly before going to press, lawmakers said a supplemental propriators have not taken up a Defense funding request by the Administration for $160.5 million to pay for veterans’ spending measure. credit monitoring services could require revision or elimination, following the recovery of the stolen laptop. Rep. James T. Walsh (N.Y.), who chairs the House Appropriations Military Quality of Life and Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee, What is a Conference said appropriators would likely know by the August recess whether the supple- Committee? mental request would be necessary. Earlier, National President Edgar Zerr A temporary panel made up of members and NES Joe Barnes met with House Majority Leader John Boehner (OH) of the House and Senate to resolve differ- and House Veterans Affairs Committee (HVAC) Chairman Steve Buyer (IN) ences between versions of similar House to express deep concern about the lapse in security at the VA. FRA believes a and Senate bills. When House and Senate thorough and independent audit of security procedures is necessary to include members agree on a bill it is sent to both significant enhancements to ensure that such breaches do not reoccur. FRA is houses as a conference committee report. closely monitoring these developments and will provide updates in future edi- Unlike a bill, a conference committee tions of Naval Affairs and Newsbytes. report can not be amended when it gets to the floor of the House and Senate. It can only be approved or disapproved. If Senate Fails to Approve Flag Amendment both houses approve the report it is sent to the President to be signed into law. The Senate fell one vote short of passing a Constitutional amendment sponsored by What is markup? Sen. Orin Hatch (R-UT), that would have allowed Congress to pass a law prohibiting The process where committees and sub- flag desecration. The resolution (SJR 12) received 66 votes. The vote represents committees redraft portions of legislation the strongest showing yet for such an amendment in the Senate, which last voted that includes attempts to insert new pro- on the proposal in 2000, when it fell short of passage by four votes. The House visions and deleting others. This process passed an identical amendment in 2005. FRA is a member of the Citizens Flag determines the content of the legislation Alliance and strongly supported this resolution. as it is reported out of committee or subcommittee. $ For AFRH Approved! As a follow-up to the story reported in the July issue of Naval Affairs, House and On & Off Capitol Hill is written by the legislative team Senate conferees finally struck a deal and the President signed into law a $94.5 of: Joe Barnes, National Executive Secretary; John billion emergency supplemental appropriations bill for the current fiscal year that Davis, Director of Legislative Programs; Ed Dockery, funds the military, hurricane relief and some other related items, including $176 Assistant Director of Legislative Programs; Bob million to rebuild the AFRH in Gulfport MS and $550 million to rebuild the New Washington, Director of Membership Development and Orleans VA Medical Center. Chris Slawinski, National Veterans Service Officer Branch Clubs and Business Enterprises membership matters

13 Many shipmates join FRA, not only under the sponsorship of the branch • Any branch that sponsors or en- to experience the rare fellowship of of the FRA and members thereof. dorses the operation of a business Naval affairs like-minded individuals who have The National Organization of the enterprise shall have responsibility dedicated their lives to serving this na- FRA assumes no financial responsi- for the operation and management

tion, but to make a vital contribution of such an enterprise. august 2006 to their local communities. It is for this reason that many get involved with If guidelines are not adhered to, branch clubs and business enterprises your branch could be impacted in the following way: • The National Board of Directors shall act to curtail operations of clubs Failure of any branch to or other business enterprises which comply with the provision of pose a threat of unforeseen financial obligation against the branch, Section 1226 in the C&BL against the members of the branch or National Organization of the will be considered sufficient FRA, by reason of mismanagement, Bob Washington financial losses or actions which tend cause for the revocation or FRA’s Director of Membership to reflect discredit upon the FRA, its Development branches or membership. suspension of such branch’s • Failure of any branch to comply bility or liability for the operation or with the provision of Section 1226 charter in accordance with the management of this club.” will be considered sufficient cause • No elected or appointed officer of for the revocation or suspension of provisions of Section 1203. a branch of the FRA shall serve as such branch’s charter in accordance an officer, member of the Board of with the provisions of Section 1203. Directors, or member of the Board that raise funds for worthy causes (i.e. of Governors of an enterprise spon- Bob Washington is FRA’s Director of Membership scholarships or assisting fellow ship- sored by the branch. Development and serves as the Chairman of the mates in need). FRA applauds such National Membership and Retention Committee. community involvement, but appeals to all members to keep the following guidelines (paraphrased from FRA’s Constitution & Bylaws) in mind: • FRA shall not be responsible or fi- nancially liable for the operation or management of any club or business Rewarding Members venture either sponsored or endorsed by an FRA branch. Bravo Zulu to Branch 99 President Charlie Baldwin for the unique program • All FRA branches (or members) he has initiated to reward dedicated shipmates. Thanks to his efforts, 19 conducting business enterprises, restaurants in the Virginia Beach area are donating dinner gift certificates including clubs, halls and other the Branch gives away as prizes at branch meetings. activities, are contingent upon membership in FRA. This is one of the reasons Branch 99 has consistently high turnout at branch • Individuals operating or managing meetings, and just one example of how branches are working closely with an enterprise sponsored by an FRA local businesses and the community to grow and retain membership. branch shall prominently display the Thank you so much for all you do! following notice, in a manner and

size so that it can be read from a dis- tance from at least ten feet: “This club Send us news on your branch initiatives to [email protected]. is incorporated under the laws of the state. It is a nonprofit organization 14 august 2006 Naval affairs Naval Exclusive interview

15 All in Naval affairs a day’s work august 2006 for MCPOCG Bowen

On June 14, 2006, Master Chief Charles “Skip” Bowen became the 10th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard. He is a member and a long time friend of FRA. One of his first stops since assuming command was to FRA headquarters to meet with NES Joe Barnes. After their meeting, MCPOCG Bowen sat with Lauren Armstrong, Contributing Editor, to share his vision and goals as the senior enlisted leader of his service.

FRA: How do you hope to define pected to join our fleet sometime next your tenure as MCPOCG? year. In addition to the new electronics and mission-related equipment onboard, Bowen: My job is to support it also has a state-of-the-art galley, a gym, Admiral [Thad] Allen and make his and 140 racks for a crew of 105 — it’s tour a successful one. Two of the ma- going to provide better habitability than jor challenges on the horizon are the any cutter we’ve ever had. implementation of Deepwater and reorganizing our deployable units to enhance FRA: The Coast Guard plays a huge role our ability to respond from shore-based, in the Department of Homeland Security. mobile and deployed positions. How will reorganizing the Coast Guard’s deployable assets affect operations? Quite frankly he’s really the right choice FRA: Let’s talk about those challenges. for the job. Skip Bowen’s operational What will Deepwater, the Coast Guard’s Bowen: The Coast Guard’s role is rap- background, experience as a command recapitalization plan, mean for Coast idly expanding. As an example, we about master chief and also his educational Guard personnel? to assume the responsibility of patrolling qualifications make him well suited to the air space over the National Capital carry on the legacy of his predecessors, Bowen: Coast Guard personnel have Region, which includes the Washington, and allow him to move into his own per- shown time and again that they can get D.C. area. sonal character where he will create his the job done despite the significant chal- Right now, the Coast Guard has a own ‘fingerprint’ in the organization. His lenges of maintaining an aging fleet and variety of specialized units that are de- long-time professional relationship with using antiquated equipment. Transitioning ployable and capable of handling every- ADM Allen will be an exceptional asset, to the newer platforms and equipment thing from search-and-rescue operations as the two of them share a vision and goal associated with Deepwater will allow our and oil spills to port security and terrorist that follows the path of the Coast Guard’s people to be even more effective in per- threats. Commandant Allen plans to orga- vision statement, ‘Ready Today, Preparing forming their varied missions, and also nize these units into a single command, for Tomorrow.’ He will do very well serving provide a better work environment. known as the Deployable Operations the entire Coast Guard community. For example, I’m excited about the Command (DOG). Under the DOG struc- Vince Patton, 8th MCPOCG (Ret.) new National Security Cutter that’s ex- ture, we will be able to more effectively mo- Exclusive Interview I offer my congratulations to MCPOCG Bowen on his selection to serve as the 10th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard. You are well prepared for this position 16 and obviously empowered by the Commandant. Both will assist him greatly in taking bilize the right forces to the right locations care of the Coast Guard’s most valuable resources — our men and women. I am sure to deal with the situation at hand, whether the other former Master Chiefs join me in pledging to support him in any way needed. it’s environmental or man-made. Our goal Rick Trent, 7th MCPOCG (Ret.) is to handle all hazards and all threats in

august 2006 all environments. I believe this command Department of Defense (DoD) personnel vice’s pay structure, or I fear it will nega- structure will make our service more agile programs, such as compensation and tively impact retention. and a stronger, all-encompassing first re- access to quality health care. How does sponder for the federal government. the Coast Guard’s unique position in our FRA: Let’s talk about the recent propos- Naval affairs Naval nation’s military structure affect these als to change the structure of military re- FRA: What are your goals for your term programs? tirement. There seems to be a big push as MCPOCG? to bring military retirement benefits in line Bowen: Our service is unique. We are with “comparable” civilian pension plans. Bowen: I’m obviously very proud of our both a maritime law enforcement agency What is your opinion about how this service, and the men and women who and a military service, and we have an would affect the Coast Guard? make the Coast Guard so effective. But array of varied missions. As a result, our no matter how good we are, there’s al- force structure is different from the other Bowen: I don’t want to give a personal ways room for improvement. My goal is military services, which impacts our peo- opinion on the proposed changes, but I to strengthen our service and improve the ple in rather unique ways. will say that the last time the retirement quality of life for our personnel in a variety For instance, our Chief Warrant system was changed even slightly we of ways. Officers (CWO) serve a different function had to reverse course years later because As I mentioned before, Deepwater is than their Army and Navy counterparts. it negatively affected retention. on track to modernize our sea-based in- In the DoD services, CWOs often perform The average retirement rank in the frastructure, but we also need to update very specialized duty, such as helicopter military is at the E-6 level and those folks our shore facilities. For example, our UPH or fixed-wing pilots. As a result, DoD ser- don’t receive a huge retirement check. In (Unaccompanied Personnel Housing) is vices sometimes offer incentives to retain fact it’s a pretty small amount, but it’s an sub-par, and we need to make a con- those CWOs with specialized skills. In amount that’s critical to helping our peo- scious effort to address this and other the Coast Guard, CWOs perform general ple get by even with a civilian paycheck shore infrastructure needs. service and middle management duties, on top of it. I think the retirement system Leadership and professionalism are much like our senior enlisted personnel. is one of the main reasons our people the foundation of our senior enlisted corps. A proposal in the FY2007 National stay in the service. I’d like to expand our Senior Petty Officer Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to FRA: How can FRA assist you in taking The Coast Guard continues to face enormous challenges, just as it has throughout care of Coast Guard personnel and their its proud history but with MCPOCG Bowen’s collaborative efforts with FRA, our families? enlisted shipmates will continue to be well-represented on Capitol Hill. Frank A. Welch, 9th MCPOCG (Ret.) Bowen: FRA consistently looks after the interests of service members, and I appreciate your work to maintain and en- Leadership and Management Course so offer an eight-percent targeted pay in- hance the quality of life for Coast Guard that every E-5 and E-6 can attend. I’ll also crease to CWOs may make sense for personnel. FRA pursues an ambitious work to enhance our existing Advanced the Army and Navy, but if implemented, legislative agenda and employs its exper- Law Enforcement Competency Program a similar raise should be given to senior tise and resources to get the job done, and create more formal training opportu- enlisted personnel. and I’m consistently impressed with the nities for all law enforcement personnel. Proportionally, we have more CWOs Association’s results. If Congress is work- The Coast Guard has a great track than the other services, but in certain ing on legislation that affects service per- record for recruiting and retaining strong skill areas, we need more senior enlisted sonnel, FRA is on top of it — taking a performers. I hope to continue that tra- personnel. Providing such a substantial stand for its members. dition to maintain a qualified and diverse pay raise to CWOs only will create a senior enlisted force. significant pay gap among Coast Guard personnel who are often shouldering Lauren Armstrong now serves as the FRA: One of FRA’s top priorities is main- similar responsibilities. There is a great Contributing Editor for Naval Affairs after seven taining parity between Coast Guard and need to maintain parity within our ser- years as Editor. AD-5300-23 Coast Guard ad.qxp 6/30/2006 4:09 PM Page 1

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Thank you for making our nation a safer place. slate of officers FRA

20 Candidate for National President Jerry Sweeney has been nominated by Branch 181 in Arlington, VA for the office of FRA National President.

august 2006 NVP Sweeney is a Life Member and has maintained continuous Association

membership for more than 40 years and is well versed in FRA’s legislative, financial and membership efforts. NVP Sweeney was an employee or salaried national officer of FRA for more than al affairs v 14 years. He has dedicated himself to the offices of president, vice president, secre- N a tary and treasurer at the branch level; and as Northwest Regional Vice President and President and chairman or member of most regional committees. At the national level, Sweeney has served as NFS, a member of the national Budget and Finance, Life Membership, Naval Affairs, Americanism-Patriotism, and Membership and Retention committees. Additionally, NVP Sweeney has been a member of the National Board of Directors, advisor to the NBOD and Budget and Finance Committee; and chaired the 53rd National Convention (Seattle, Wash.) Committee.

Candidates for National Vice President

Jr. Past National Treasurer Lawrence “Larry” Boudreaux has been nominated by Hangtown Branch 275 in Placerville, CA for the office of National Vice President. He has served as Regional Vice President 1995-1996 and Regional President 1996-1997. Boudreaux was chairperson of the Mid-Year Convention West Coast Region thrice, and chairperson for the West Coast Regional Convention twice. On the national level, he has served on the Americanism-Patriotism Committee as Chairman (1998-1999) and National Treasurer (2000-2003). Boudreaux is currently serving on the 2003-2006 Special Committee to Modernize the FRA’s Constitution and By Laws, and Standing Rules.

PRPWC Thomas H. Ford has been nominated by Lemoore Branch 261 in Lemoore, CA for the office of National Vice President. Since joining FRA more than 30 years ago, Ford has participated in the last seventeen of nineteen national conventions attended. He has been a bulwark of Branch 261, occupying offices. He has been Chairman of all branch committees and has served on, or chaired, numerous committees at the Regional and National level. Ford has served the West Coast Region as Regional Vice President 1996- 1997 and Regional President 1997-1998. He has chaired and/or co-chaired the West Coast Regional Convention twice. Ford has also been recognized over the years by FRA for enthusiasm toward recruiting new members. LA FRA slate of officers

21 Candidate for President N a v

LA FRA National Vice President Sandra L. Robbins has been nominated by First al affairs Coast Unit 91 in Jacksonville, FL, as a candidate for the office of LA FRA National President for 2006-2007. Since joining LA FRA in 1986, Robbins has served in a number of posi- august 2006 tions of increasing responsibility. She was elected Southeast Regional Treasurer, Southwest Regional President, and also served on a number of key committees (Welfare, Activities, Audit, Budget and Americanism). At the local level, Robbins has served as President, Vice President, and Treasurer of Unit 91.

Candidate for National Vice President A FRA National Treasurer Gail Doloway has been nominated by Bonanza Unit 90 in Las Vegas, NV as candidate for the office of National Vice President for 2006-2007. Doloway joined the LA FRA in 1965 and has served in several key positions at the unit level, including: President (21 terms), Vice President (2 terms), Secretary-Treasurer (2 terms) and Secretary (4 terms). At the regional level, she served as Regional President Southwest 2001-2002, Regional Vice President and as Regional Convention Chairman (2 terms). On the national level, Doloway served as Chairman of Americanism, Youth Activities and the National Arizona Memorial (Hawaii – 3 terms).

Candidates for National Treasurer

LA FRA Regional President West Coast Helen A Courneya has been nominated by Ladies of High Sierra, Unit 274 in Reno, NV for the office of National Treasurer for 2006-2009. Courneya has been an active member of LA FRA for more than 24 years and has served at the unit level as President, Secretary and Treasurer, as well as chairman of several committees (planning committee for the 44th Regional Convention, Co-Chairman for the 47th West Coast Regional Convention, and Co-Chairman for the National Convention in Reno, Nevada in 2005). At the regional level, she served as Secretary, Vice President and President 2004-2006.

LA FRA Past Regional President Southwest Eileen Magnan has been nominated by Unit 9, San Diego, California for the office of National Treasurer for the Association years 2006-2009. A member of the LA FRA since 1988, Eileen has held a variety of positions in the unit and the Southwest Region. She has served as the unit’s president, vice president, chaplain and as a member of the unit’s board of directors. She held the post of Southwest Regional Vice President (1999-2000) and President (2000- 2001), in addition to serving on numerous regional committees. On the National level she has attended four Pilgrimages, ten National Conventions and served on the Americanism, Unit President, Registration, Credential and the 2003 National Convention Committees. News from the branches

22 august 2006 Naval affairs Naval

Branch 267 St. Louis, MO Branch President John Hollowood (second from left) presents plaques to Shipmates George Dodd (far left), Jim Teater (second from right) and Dale Ferrington (far right).

Branch 109 Clearwater, FL Shipmate Tom Montgomery (left) accepts his 50-year Continuous Membership award from Branch President Al Vacca.

Branch 175 Orange County, Ca Shipmate Joseph W. Moore (left) accepts his 30-year Continuous Membership pin from Branch President “Ole” Olson. News from the branches

23 Naval affairs august 2006

Branch 1 Philadelphia, PA FS-1 Kelly L. Napier, 1st District US Coast Guard Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year receives a certificate and bond from Branch President William Reese PRPNE (left), with US Coast Guard Reserve Master Chief Ronan Giehl and Capt. David Scott, Commanding Officer of the US Coast Guard Station Sector Delaware Bay, Philadelphia, Branch 229 New Windsor, NY PA looking on. Cast members of Marlboro High School’s production of South Pacific share ideas with Branch Secretary, Norman Sivertsen (left) and Branch President, Tom Hoey (right). fra membership benefits

24 Take advantage of the following benefits and your membership will pay for itself!

www.fra.org Dental Plan

august 2006 Please login to www.fra.org to access As a member, you and your family are members-only information and par- eligible for dental insurance coverage. ticipate in online discussion groups For information regarding the FRA with staff and other Shipmates. Dental Plan, call 1-800-522-1857. Naval affairs Naval

Through the Web site, you can also Lens Crafters communicate with your elected offi- Show your FRA membership card and cials using FRA’s online Action Center, mention Lens Crafters Plan #9134727 update your personal information, and receive a 20% discount on frames, subscribe to NewsBytes, FRA’s weekly lenses, coating and tints, optical accesso- Military Checks e-mail update, read FRA’s OnWatch, ries, safety frames and lenses, and non- Members of FRA can show association (quarterly publication for the active prescription sunglasses at Lens Crafters. pride with high quality, custom designed duty and Reserve communities), or Some locations also offer discounts bank checks, personalized with your access the other member benefits list- on eye exams and contact lenses. Call name, address, and FRA emblem. Call ed below. 1-800-522-LENS for information. 1-800-VET-CHEX to order.

Naval Affairs Navy Times Avis Car Rentals FRA’s monthly magazine provides FRA members qualify for a special When making reservations through concise articles on legislative develop- subscription rate of 52 weeks for Avis, be sure to use your FRA member- ments that affect you and your family. $39.00 or 35 weeks for $26.50. Call ship benefit discount:AWD#T867500 . 1-800-368-5718 to start or renew your FRA Scholarship Program subscription. Use FRA priority mem- Hertz Car Rentals Over $100,000 in college and gradu- ber code number 1516N3. When making reservations through ate school scholarships are awarded to Hertz, be sure to user your FRA member- FRA members, their dependants and FRA Platinum & Designer ship benefit discount: CDP#332104. grandchildren each year. MasterCard from MBNA FRA members are offered FRA’s Online Travel Portal GEICO Car Insurance exclusive MasterCard card with no The online travel portal provides FRA Auto premiums are discounted for FRA annual fee. Choose a Platinum or members special government rates for members in many states. Call 1-800- Classic card that displays an im- everything from airline tickets, hotels, MILITARY (1-800-645-4827) and ask age from the Navy, Marine Corps, or or cars to last minute travel deals on for the FRA member benefit discount. Coast Guard. Call 1-800-GET-MBNA cruises or golf packages. (1-800-438-6262) for more information. FRA Life and Health FRA’s US Bonds 4U Network Insurance Programs FRA CDs & Money Markets Shop for everyday items, gifts, and As an FRA member, you are eligible for FRA is pleased to provide the follow- even hotel reservations, rental cars, and excellent coverage at affordable group ing financial tools through MBNA for flights online, and each network mer- rates by participating in FRA-endorsed the benefit of our members: chant gives you a percentage of your insurance programs. Request informa- • GoldPortfolio – deposit accounts purchase back as BondDollars™. Your tion by calling 1-800-424-1120, or by through MBNA America Bank N.A. FRA US Bonds 4U savings account following the link on the Membership • GoldCertificate CD – consistently grows with every purchase. Once your Benefits page under My FRA on www. ranked among the best nationwide. account reaches 50 BondDollars™, fra.org/benefits. • GoldSavers Money Market – outper- you can redeem for US Savings Bonds forms most money funds as well as or other valuable benefits. other bank money market and savings accounts year after year. These accounts are FDIC insured up to $100,000 per depositor.

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27 N a v al affairs

august 2006

HEALTH BENEFITS UNDER SIEGE “I am third generation Navy, and after 30 years of service, “Funding for other programs should not be sought by I am extremely concerned about the erosion of medical, reducing the amount government spends on military as well as other benefits. I have a very historical view of health care and other personnel needs,” says FRA’s how much benefits that were believed to be everlasting health benefits advisor, Bob Washington. “Despite tight for both active and retired service members have been de- budgets, government needs to pay for both weapons creased or terminated. The medical coverage was funda- and health care.” mental for my continued service after my initial enlistment. This once again is simply a break in faith. This philosophy SEEKING VIABLE ALTERNATIVES needs to be suspended and the faith re-affirmed for past, FRA believes that the Department of Defense (DoD) present and future military generations.” has not sufficiently investigated other options to make “A raise in premiums will drastically affect monies available TRICARE more cost-efficient without shifting costs to for food and housing while on a fixed income.” beneficiaries. FRA proposes that DoD investigate the following: These comments (taken from a recent FRA Health survey) reflect the anguish many Shipmates feel about the Admin- • Promote retaining other health insurance by making istration’s plans to make military personnel pay more for TRICARE a true second-payer to other insurance (it is far their health care. cheaper to pay another insurance’s copay than having the beneficiary migrate to TRICARE); Why is the Administration embarking • Change electronic claim system to kick back errors in on this course? real time to help providers submit “clean” claims, Pentagon officials say annual health care costs have soared reduce delays and multiple submissions; to almost $40 billion in the past five years, and are expected • increase efficiency via a single contract for all claims to rise to $64 billion by 2015. processing; To offset the projected increases, the Administration has • implement effective disease management programs proposed the following: and ensure co-ordination across the entire system; • A significant increase in fees paid by retired uniformed • negotiate with drug manufacturers for retail pharmacy services beneficiaries (including tripling enrollment fees discounts (the most costly venue); for TRICARE prime and TRICARE standard) • Reduce/eliminate all mail-order copays to boost use of • A 67% increase in retail pharmacy fees for all active lowest-cost venue; duty, Guard, Reserve, retired, and survivor beneficiaries. (SOURCE: www.tricare.osd.mil/STB) • do more to educate beneficiaries and providers on advantages of mail-order pharmacy; FRA’S HEALTH SURVEY — A RESOUNDING “NO” • establish a central DoD facility to order/fill all prescrip- TO TRICARE INCREASES tions for exceptionally high-cost drugs (Air Force model FRA conducted an online health care survey in March to has been successful). gauge members’ thoughts and attitudes regarding TRICARE and the proposed fee increases. More than 90% of the re- spondents OPPOSE the administration’s proposed TRICARE fee increases, with more than 70% strongly opposed.

FRA IS ON YOUR SIDE Read our next issue of OnWatch, at www.fra.org/onwatch which focuses on health care. FRA strongly believes the Administration’s proposed health We’ll provide comprehensive feedback on our survey results, inform you about FRA care increases are shortsighted and may ultimately hurt initiatives to maintain and enhance your health care benefits, and also provide an long-term retention. easy-to-use guide on the various TRICARE options and how they impact you.

Reunions

29 SSBN 622 James Monroe USS Chewaucan (AOG-50) 15-18 October 2007, Branson, MO. 14-17 September 2006, Savannah, GA. Naval affairs Contact James (Jim) Bayliss PO Box Contact Bill Becker 1168-1 Village Creek 426, Hazelwood, MO 63042 or Lane, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464, (314) 428-6355. (843) 849-6252 or [email protected]. august 2006

SSBN’s 598 to 602 USS Cimmaron (AO-22) 24-27 August 2006, Groton, CT. 10-13 September 2006, Deadwood, SD. Contact W.t. (Doc) McCance 16 Contact George King, (702) 438-5165 or Chapman Lane Gales Ferry, CT 06355, [email protected]. 860-464-6758 or [email protected]. USS Forster (DE-334, DER-334, USS Arnold J. Isbell (DD-869) USCG 434) 5-8 October 2006, San Diego, CA. 20-22 September 2006, Maryland CORTRON 3 SHIPS (Cortdiv 31, Contact Barry Dahlberg 596 Gray St., Heights, MO. Contact Robert Simpson, Cortdiv 32, Cortdiv 33) Geneva, IL 60134, (708) 203-1445 or (910) 673-6368. 8-12 November 2006, Baton Rouge, [email protected]. LA. Contact Jack M. Price 144 Five Mile USS Gyatt (DD-712/DDG-1) Road, Suffolk, VA 23434-6932, USS Bache (DDE-470) 12-16 September 2006, San Antonio, (757) 255-0505 or [email protected]. 10-14 October 2006, Virginia Beach, VA. TX. Contact Roland Castillo, Contact Kit Hall 148 Buddie Ave., (210) 674-6930. National Chief Petty Officers St. Louis, MO 63135-1015 or Association (314) 521-9414. 11-15 October 2006, Baton Rouge, LA. Contact W. A. Williams 106 Waring- Welfare Road, Boerne, TX 78006-7925 Members can post reunions online at www.fra.org, or (830) 537-4899. submit to [email protected] or mail to: FRA Reunions, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

As a member of FRA, you have a team working for you at Headquarters.

Never wonder who to call for help.

Our expert staff stands ready to answer your questions regarding: Legislation Health care Education enhancements Veterans’ service benefits Survivor benefits Finding former shipmates or placing reunion notices Communicating with elected officials

Just one more way that FRA membership pays for itself.

Your Mission n Your Voice

1-800-FRA-1924 www.fra.org Looking for…

30 PCI Charles Noel (Ret.) Recruit Company 339, Bainbridge Md. Last known assignment was the (22 July 1955 to 2 Oct. 1955) Terminal Post Office, Yokohama, Japan QM1 Charlie Forman was the Company in the 1960s. Contact Howard Wetherell Commander of this Central New York

august 2006 (Ret.), 8436 New York Avenue, Orange Company. Contact Jerry Connors, Park, FL 32073 or 904-215-7397. RMC (Ret.) at 520-399-2106 or [email protected]. HMCM Andrew J. Parker USN (Ret.) Naval affairs Naval Last known duty station was Armed Joseph Demuro OSI/OSC Forces Institute of Pathology. Contact Last known assignments: USS Ranger Ray Bauley at 989-856-7042 or CIA-61(1968-71); HAS Taipei, TAIWAN [email protected]. (1971-4). Originally from Bronx, N.Y. Contact Ron Bouchard, HC30 Box These notices are published on a space available HM2 (HM1) Emile E. Trahan 2305, Concho, AZ 85924 or basis. Notices must be submitted in writing. Email (discharged) 928-337-3182. [email protected] or mail your request to: FRA, Looking for…, Last known work place was the 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA, 22314. National Institute of Health, Bethesda, Michael Morris Md. (1971). Contact Ray Bauley at Last known assignment was serving 989-856-7042 or [email protected]. aboard USS Mossberger DD 980, 1978-1982. Contact Mike Warren Shipmates from the USS Macdonough at [email protected] or DLG 8 660-582-5567. Would like to locate shipmates who suf- fered health problems (such as cancer) David A. Parker as a result of excessive exposure to #2 Last known assignment was serving diesel fuel oil. Contact Johnny Rombs at aboard USS Perch 313, 1957-1960. 361-937-1169 or [email protected]. He retired as a firefighter somewhere in Southern California. Contact Don VF 24 Shipmates Masoero at [email protected] F-14 initial cadre & first cruise ship- or 253-941-4133. 21-NAVAL AFFAIRS 1 INCH AD-AP 2/8/05 11: mates. Are you interested in a reunion? Contact B. Wall at [email protected] Recruit Company 420, Bainbridge, or H. Church at [email protected]. Md. (1952) Hearing Aids ! Free Catalog ! Company Commander was D.E. Wolf, Save Up To 70% EMCS SS Bob Chatman BMI USN. Contact AEI Albert Weber 1-800-462-5778 Last known duty station was USS (Ret.), RT1 Box 850, Webbers Falls, Monroe Hearing Wahoo. Contact Doc Woods at OK, 74470 or 918-464-2981. P. O. Box A-3976 Chicago, Il. 60690 804-743-9168. Charles Gunzel (Lt.) and A.E. Mills RMCS Bill Traylor (wife, Bea) Last known assignment USS Last known assignments – Kodiak, Sacramento in 1989. Contact www.priorservice.com Alaska (1963-1966) and aboard L. Robert Kozak at 937-337-7482. Your Home for Navy Gear COMSIXTHFLT flagship, off Gaeta (early Over 10,000 Military Items 1970s). Contact CTOCM Charles Maack, USS W.S. SIMS (DE/FF-1059) USN (Ret.), 8201 E. Harry #1804, Commissioned Jan. 1970, Charleston, Wichita, KS 67207 or [email protected]. S.C.; home ported, Mayport, Florida. Contact the USS WS Sims Association *Golf shirts *T-shirts *Pins *Ship Caps Recruit Company 57-47 (July 1947) at [email protected] or call *Medals *Coins *Patches *Decals Contact Joseph Sauls at 843-238-0185 Rob Muirhead toll free at (office) *Flags *License Plates *Clocks *Watches *Bumper Stickers or [email protected]. 888-497-5285. 1.877.241.8611 MESOTHELIOM A

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USMC Mountain Warfare Training •Navy Action In The 1930s & USS Langley, 45 minutes •USS Constellation (CVA-64) 1962-1970, 45 minutes •Navy Advisor in Vietnam, 35 minutes •USS Coral Sea (CVA-43) 1965-1970, 50 minutes Center, Bridgeport CA., 50 min. •Navy Boot Camp and Schools San Diego 1960s, 60 minutes •USS Enterprise (CVAN-65) 1960-1970s, 90 minutes •Smoke Jumpers 1940s: Training Firefighters, 60 min. •Navy Boot Camp Great Lakes NTC, 1940s, 44 minutes •USS Enterprise 1969 Fire, 45 minutes •Embassy Marine & Marine Honor Guard, 45 min. •Navy Deep Sea Diving In The 1940s, 55 minutes •USS Forrestal 1967 Fire, 72 minutes •USMC Basic School: USMC Officers 1960s/70s, 45 min. •Navy Diving In The 1960s: Medical Aspects, 60 minutes •USS Forrestal in the 1950s and 1960s, 90 minutes •Navy Frogmen, UDT & SEALS, 105 min. •USS Franklin (CV-13), 95 minutes •Navy Guns 1950s, 90 minutes •USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CV-42) 1960s, 85 minutes •A-4 Skyhawk: Attack Bomber, 55 minutes •Navy Man 1970s, Boot Camp NTC San Diego, 50 minutes •USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, CVB-42:1940s & 1950s, 45 minutes •A-6E Intruder, EA-6 Prowler And A-7 Corsair, 75 minutes •Navy Man Of The 1940s, NTC San Diego, 50 minutes •USS Hancock CV-19, WWII-Vietnam, 60 minutes •Adm. Chester Nimitz & Admiral Arleigh Burke Story, 80 minutes •Navy Men 1950s, NTC San Diego, 75 minutes •USS Independence CVA-62 off Vietnam, 60 minutes •African-Americans in World War II, 70 minutes •MSTS Arctic Operations 1950s & 1955 /1956 Reports, 120 min. •USS John F. Kennedy CVA-67 1970s & 1980s, 75 minutes •Amphibious Assault: Surface & Helicopter Borne, 55 minutes •Navy OCS 1950s & Naval Academy 1960s, 70 minutes •USS Kearsarge Reunion, 60 minutes •Anti-Submarine Operations In The 1950s, 40 minutes •Navy Service School, River Rouge WWII, 30 minutes •USS Kitty Hawk, CV-63, 1961-1979 , 75 minutes •Anti-Submarine Warfare 1960s & 1970s, 85 minutes •Trainers: T-28 Trojan, T-34 Mentor and T-2J Buckeye, 55 min. •USS Midway, CV-41/CVB-41/CVA-41, 1945-1970 , 60 minutes •Black Pilots of World War II, 30 minutes •Negro Soldier And Sailor In World War II, 70 minutes •USS Nautilus (SSN 571) & Submarine Officer, 30 minutes •Carrier Action Off Korea, 75 minutes •Norfolk, Virginia Aerial Views 1954, 11 minutes •USS Oriskany (CVA-34) Off The Coast Of Vietnam, 40 minutes •Carrier Pilot Training 1970s: Pensacola, Florida, 60 minutes •NOT S.O.P. Unusual Films Made By The Military, 120 minutes •USS Oriskany 1966 Fire, 60 minutes •Chu Lai Air Base 1965-1968: Marines, Seabees, 75 minutes •Occupation Of Japan In World War II, 80 minutes •USS Philippine Sea CV-47, 50 minutes •Cuban Missile Crisis And Guantanamo Naval Base, 70 minutes •Operation Highjump (Antarctic Journey), 75 minutes •USS Randolph 1945-1967 (CV-15, CVA-15, CVS-15), 50 minutes •Crossing The Line: King Neptune Ceremony, 50 minutes •P2V Neptune 1940s-50s, 75 minutes •USS Ranger CVA/CV-61, 1956-1983, 70 minutes •Damage Control And Abandon Ship, 90 minutes •PB4Y Enters Service & PB4Y Crews, 20 minutes •USS Ranger Reunion, 60 minutes •December 7th: The Attack On Pearl Harbor, 85 minutes •PBM (Mariner) Patrol Plane, 36 minutes •USS Robert E. Lee & USS Lewis And Clark, 60 minutes •Destroyer Escorts of the 1940s and 1950s, 48 minutes •PBY: World War II Operations, 60 minutes •USS Shangri-La (CV-38, CVA-38, CVS-38) 1944-1968, 45 minutes •Destroyers & Their Sailors WWI-Vietnam, 100 minutes •Navy Weapons & Point Mugu Story, 110 minutes •USS Stingray (SS-186) And USS Sturgeon (SS-187), 8 minutes •Dolphins That Joined The Navy / Underwater Sounds, 55 min. •Polaris To Poseiden & Countdown to Trident, 60 minutes •USS Tennessee BB-43, 20 minutes •Early Days Of Naval Aviation, 110 minutes •Port Chicago & Handle With Care: WWII Ordnance, 50 minutes •USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14) Off Coast Of Vietnam, 30 minutes •Escort Carriers, CVEs 1940s And 1950s, 75 minutes •PT Boats Of World War II, 45 minutes •USS Valley Forge CV-45, LPH-8, 60 minutes •Essex Class Carriers In WWII (“Fighting Lady”), 60 minutes •Rigid Airship History & How To Fly A Blimp, 90 minutes •USS Wasp (CV-18) 1944-1972, 60 minutes •F-14 Tomcat: No Points For Second Place, 35 minutes •Sailors & Marines Training During World War I, 20 minutes •Vietnam From The Air, 70 minutes •F-2H2 Banshee: Pilot Training, 60 minutes •Salvage of USS Squalus, 45 minutes •Vietnam War: Universal Newsreels Of 1967, 76 minutes •F-4 Phantom Overview, 110 minutes •Sea Cadet and The Navy Uniform , 47 minutes •Women’s Air Service Pilots WWII, 15 minutes •F6F Hellcat Goes To War, 50 minutes •Sea Lab 1 & 2, 60 minutes •F-8U Crusader, Recognition And How To Fly It, 60 minutes •Seabees 1940s, Cold Weather Seabee, 50 min. •F-9F Panther/Cougar & F-4D Skyray, 65 minutes •Seabees & USMC Combat Ops In The Pacific •Field Medical Service School, Camp Lejeune, 60 minutes WWII, 70 minutes •Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines and Their Sailors, 85 minutes •Seabees At Normandy And In •Fleet Ocean Tugs Featuring USS Papago ATF-160, 40 minutes Europe WWII, 90 minutes •Flight To The S. Pole, Byrd Story & Op Deep Freeze 1, 85 min. •Seabees/Marine Engineers Vietnam, 45 min. •Guided Missile Cruisers & Their Sailors 1960s & 1970s, 110 min. •Seapower On The Move: 1960s Overview •Guided Missile Frigates & Destroyers in 1960s, 85 min. Of USN Fleet, 60 min •Hawaii 1942 Part I: Scenes From WWII, 60 minutes •Shipboard Living Conditions Aboard Destroyers 1940s-50s, 65 •Heavy Cruisers: 1930s-1960s, 90 minutes minutes •Hit The Deck: Incredible Carrier Crashes & Landings, 60 min. •Ships & Planes of the U.S. Navy WWII, 75 •Hook Down, Wheels Down & Langley to Enterprise, 90 minutes minutes •Navy, USMC Helicopters 1960s, 30 minutes •Small Boat Landing WWII: Featuring, •Hospital Ship: USS Repose & Corpsmen, 60 minutes LCVP, LCM , 90 minutes •Hurricane Hunters 1950s & 1960s, 40 minutes •Small Boat Warfare in Vietnam, 90 min. $34.95 •Iowa Class Battleships: USS Iowa, NJ, Missouri & Wisc, 120 min. •Submarine Service 1940s & 50s, 104 min. •J F. Kennedy 1962 Visit Atlantic Fleet & 63 Pacific Fleet , 60 min. •Submarine Training In The 1960s & • Navy WAVES & Coast Guard SPARS 1940s-70s, 60 minutes Pride Runs Deep, 60 minutes •LCS(L)(3) and LSMR: Landing Ship Medium Rocket, 50 minutes •Sub Warfare: WWII, 110 min. $29.95 •Landing Ship Dock (LSD) & LCI(L) World War II, 45 minutes •Submariners 1960s & The Growler Story •Landing Vehicle Track (LVT), 30 minutes WWII, 50 min. •Lebanon 1958: Summer Incident, 30 minutes •Suicide Attack In The Pacific, 93 min. NA •Light Carriers (CVL): Heavy Hitters, 74 minutes •Taffy 3 WWII Memorial, 68 minutes •Light Cruisers Go To War, 60 minutes •Tench Class Submarines, 75 minutes •LST Operations In Vietnam, 30 minutes •Torpedo Squadron 8 & USS Hornet (CV-8 •LST Training In World War II, 80 minutes & CV-12), 60 minutes •LSTs In The Pacific: WWII, 65 minutes In Memoriam taps

33 NAME BRANCH NAME BRANCH NAME BRANCH Abrams, Norman T., AEC 091 Glaze, Doyle Richard, MNC MAL Reddy, James J., ADRC 144 Naval affairs Adam, Raymond W., ENC 222 Glennon, Walter B., AMH1 091 Remer, James W., CDR USN 032 Alley, Gordon G., HMC 041 Goula, Ignatius J., ADRC 070 Reno, James R., ABHC 027 Arsenault, Robert, BMC 020 Grant, Maple, SDC 062 Roberts, Harrison I., ICC 147 Asercion, Alberto R., MMCM 166 Guest, Charles H., ETC 091 Rodi, Frank L., ABC 047 august 2006 Austin, Hilton, CWO2 USN 147 Guidry, Barney W., YNC MAL Ruby, Charles O., YNC 050 Gulfo, Vincent T., MSGT 186 Russell, James L., LCDR USN MAL Bailey, Hubert, PO1 USN MAL Baker, Herbert G., YNC MAL Hagler, James C., CS1 062 Satzinger, Frank H., BT1 175 Baker, Richard L., BM1 MAL Hailey, Grover T., CSC 043 Saunders, Ansil L., BMC 046 Beck, Theron C., POC MAL Haines, William B., YNC(SS) MAL Scheidelmeier, A. J., HMC 130 Benjamin, Charles D., Jr., YNC 050 Hall, James C., Sr., PO1 USN 278 Schreihofer, Gilbert A., GMGC 229 Berger, Benjamin, ADR1 188 Harris, Isaac H., YN1 161 Semple, William R., GMCS MAL Bloschichak, Andrew, Jr., BM2 042 Harris, Roger E., ET1 317 Shipp, Dewey J., RMCM 186 Bordonaro, Raymond, IS1 MAL Hebert, Milton P., HT2 022 Sholes, Roy C., CTC MAL Brew, Richard V., ADR2 071 Hein, John, PO1 USN 166 Shropshire, Daryle, PO1 USN MAL Brown, Jack P., CWO USN MAL Hinton, Robert E., PO1 USN MAL Skog, George A., RET USN 091 Brown, Roscoe J., SKCM 101 Hockaday, William H., BMC 159 Smart, Eldon E., ENDC 163 Bugg, Marshall, ADJ1 MAL Holler, Raymond C., CMM 280 Smith, Aaron, 1STLT 141 Burgess, Robert D., BMC MAL Holstein, Dudley, LTC 024 Smoke, John J., ADRC 027 Buttke, Allen J., Sr., PO1 USCG MAL Sneed, James F., ETCS 147 Johnson, Norman F., HT1 018 Solis, Jose, SDC 005 Calder, James H., LT USN 009 Jones, Billy, SCPO USN MAL Spears, Harry L., DCC 287 Canupp, John C., PHC MAL Stenbom, Gustav A., ETC 174 Carpenter, Donald E., CTCM MAL King, Raymond E., BMC 020 Stoner, Herbert O., QMCS(SS) 047 Cartrite, Leonard E., EN1 MAL Klein, Lawrence, CPO USN 261 Stovall, Bennie G., CS1 225 Chatham, John W., PN3 MAL Kolaczyk, Daniel L., RMC 099 Szuch, Louis N., CPO USN MAL Chrastina, William, CPO USN 346 Kussmaul, Lloyd F., FP2 091 Christensen, Vern, DPCS MAL Thompson, Clifton B., HMC 230 Clark, Malcolm G., EMCM 060 Lamb, Floyd L., PO1 USN MAL Thompson, Lester D., MM1 018 Close, Lloyd E., SWC 216 Leavy, Joseph T., GYSGT 175 Thornton, Ralph, MMCM 276 Cluey, Raymond C., AOC 126 Lewandowski, Eugene J., HM2 MAL Tickner, Robert, CPO USN 298 Cody, Robert M., ADR1 289 Lockey, Howard, PNC MAL Trainor, John E., BM1 MAL Conley, Robert F., ADJ2 091 Lopes, Stanley P., LT USN 008 Tucker, Marvin R., GMC MAL Cooper, Charles G., Sr., SG1 091 Tuttle, Paul E., MMCS 285 Curran, John V., FTGC 066 Martin, Bobbie J., AGC MAL Martin, Roy L., AFCM 289 Wadsack, Archie O., MSGT 046 Davis, Norman, SKC MAL McCrow, Sam R., LT USN MAL Walker, Earl, IC1 018 Derby, Peter H., ADRC 022 McSpadden, Gerald, MKC MAL Wallace, William J., Sr., GYSGT 208 Dolbier, Quentin L., BMCM 022 Mitchell, James E., MSC MAL Webb, Robert E., SN USN MAL Dyrdal, Frederick F., AMS1 042 Mitchell, Walter E., SF1 020 Weiss, Robert K., BMC 071 Montgomery, G. V., 264 Widel, Thomas J., AMHC 136 Edwards, Fred, CPO USN 316 Moran, Leo, FTC MAL Wilkins, William F., FT2 019 Morris, Ottis D., BMC 037 Willis, Claude R., Jr., BMCS 050 Farris, Lowell D., PRC 009 Morse, Matthew, RMCS 186 Winans, Robert B., AMH1 MAL Fike, Thomas F., RMC 099 Mullaney, Richard J., AT1 091 Wood, Delmer L., PRC MAL Flowers, William W., ADRC 206 Woods, Joseph F., RM1 MAL Ford, George P., E8 USN 229 Ondrusko, John, BMC 324 Woollard, Paul L., LCDR USN MAL Foster, Larrabee F., SGTMAJ 061 Worden, Wallace J., BMC 047 Frid, Norman C., MM1 008 Painter, Frederick L., BRCM 010 Wyshinski, John, RMC MAL Frost, Jack M., AK1 MAL Paul, Raymond B., BMC 047 Penny, William E., ADC 091 Yelle, Robert S., LT USN 179 Gaddis, Gordon R., ADR1 089 Picker, Clarence O., HM1 313 Gardner, Bruce B., HMC 228 Plisak, Thaddeus F., RDC 023 Gennings, Robert A., WO1 USN 174 Richerson, Monty, CPO USN MAL Names in blue indicate 50 year continuous members. Gibson, Lewis W., YN2 124 Shipmate Alfredo Mayssonnett’s name inadvertently Gieskieng, Edward C., SK1 267 Quebec, Antonio A., SKC 101 appeared in the TAPS section last month. Naval Gilbert, George R., HMCS MAL Affairs regrets the error. ChooseChoose LifeLife GrowGrow YoungYoung withwith HGHHGH

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A Message from Regional President Northwest edited by Naval Affairs Liaison, Debby Zavadil

august 2006 As I travelled around the Northwest region, I have had the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful and caring people. Attending all their meetings and luncheons has not only been interesting and rewarding, but a fun experience as well. The ladies give so much of themselves in all they do. I am so proud of all the Naval affairs Naval units. I am heartened by all the work they do in their communities, and how well they work with shipmates. Sharon Holloway LA FRA’s Regional President They volunteer their time at local VA homes and hospitals, bake birthday Northwest cakes and deliver them to the veterans in the Veterans Homes, and decorate the VA homes and hospitals at Christmas. Ladies also participate in the parades to let the public know what LA FRA is. They help with bingo games at the VA hospital, get patients to their doctor’s appointments, and also assist those who need help in other ways. Some make lap robes and help with the Veteran’s Olympics. Some units, donate food baskets during the holiday season and toys to children of less fortunate families for Christmas. They help out with Veterans Memorial Museums, participate in Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies with shipmates, and donate to the Sea Cadets and Scouts. I feel so honored and fortunate to belong to and serve such a wonderful organization. It is the time of year that we need to remember to get our reports done and also get our delegate forms filled out completely. I hope all Regional Presidents have a great Regional Convention, and I am looking forward to seeing you at the National Convention in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. To those of you with an anniversary or birthday, I wish you many more. To those who are under the weather, a speedy recovery. And to those who have lost a loved one, I send you sympathy and prayers.

Sharon Holloway provided these photos from her travels around the Northwest.

Ladies of Unit 59.

Sharon (second from right) and the ladies of Unit 333. Ladies of Unit 333 and Shipmates of Branch 333 show their patriotic spirit. NYM_Eagle_NA:aug 6/16/06 10:15 AM Page 1 SIZZLING GOLD Is your personal financial portfolio cooling down? We have the SIZZLE to heat up a financial cold spell during this era of a staggering rise in oil prices and the falling dollar: Certified gold coins. That’s right. And these are not just common gold bullion pieces. These are authentic $5 Gold Eagles struck by the U.S. Mint and certified by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) to be in near-flawless, MS-69 Brilliant Uncirculated condition. You may never again have the opportunity to own these gold coins at this price. With continued uncertainty of the stock market, demand for these coins continues to explode as collectors and investors scramble to hoard away U.S. gold coins for their pure gold content and their role as “safe haven” against a falling dollar. Certified high-quality, Brilliant Uncirculated coins create additional HEAT over bullion, making these coins even HOTTER as you diversify your portfolio As low as for a brighter future. $99 ea. Don’t Miss This Hot Opportunity: Order Now! Consider that since 1999, the number of coin collectors has sharply risen from 3 million to 130 million, you may never get a second chance to capitalize on this opportunity. Order now while our limited supplies last. Due to the increasing scarcity of these coins, we must issue a strict limit of 50 coins per customer. Prices and orders subject to availability, so call today. Your satisfaction is assured by our 30-day money-back guarantee.

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5 25 50 75 95 100 5 25 50 75 95 100 5 25 50 75 95 100 5 25 50 75 95 100 Asbestos Cancer Hits Former Sailors Many sailors who served their country proudly aboard ships in the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam War eras, are now being diagnosed with asbestos-related cancers.

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