Page 1

The “Nor’Easter” a newsletter of MOAA Northeast Florida Chapter (FL-18; published by the Northeast Florida Chapter (FL-18), which is an affiliate of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). MOAA and its affiliated chapters and councils are non-partisan. The advertisements that appear in this publication also do not reflect an endorsement by MOAA or this affiliate.

APRIL 2017 EDITION

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

"The Final Flight"

In Loving Memory, of Haskell Edmond Wright, Jr. Spouse of LT Margaret Wright, USNR Col James E. Graves, USA, (Ret) Brig Gen Henry C. Newcomer, USAF, (Ret) and Mrs. Janyce Bovasso, Surviving Spouse Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard his call, I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work, to play. Tasks left undone must stay that way, I’ve found that peace at the close of the day. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My Life’s been full, I savored much, Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch, Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now, He set me free. Wednesday, April 19 we honor our recently departed with a Two Bell Ceremony. We hope to see you all there. Aaron Continue to Serve

THE “NOR‘EASTER”

MOAA Northeast Florida Chapter (FL-18), P.O. Box 442022, Jacksonville, FL 32222-2022

Chapter web site: www.moaafl.org/chapters/neflmoaa/

This publication is intended to communicate with our members via FL-18’s Board of Directors.

Page 2

CHAPTER LUNCHEON

Please join us on Wednesday, April 19, 2017, 1100 at the NAS Jacksonville Officers’ Club. Please note: Social hour is 1100 to 1130; lunch served 1130 sharp. Lunch will be Baked Ham, with potatoes, green beans, coffee, tea, and decaf. The cost is $14.00 per plate. Please RSVP and payment to Pat Munn, no later than 1400 Monday, April 17, 2017. You may also make reservations by calling Pat at 770-570-0122 or by email at dpmunn@yahoo.com. Payment may be made at the door if preferred; however, you must have a reservation to eat and reservations cannot be accepted after April 17, 2017 at 1400. Dress is appropriate casual. For those of you who like to take home part or all your meal, the staff has asked that you bring your own containers. The Club is not set up to accommodate take out. Thank you.

Please call 770-570-0122 for Reservations/CANCELLATIONS. If cancellation is confirmed by the above RSVP deadline, your check will be returned to you. Because we commit to a guaranteed attendance, NO SHOWS, OR LATE cancellations; checks will not be returned; or you will be billed. NOTE: TO SIMPLIFY ACCOUNTABILITY AND TO AID OUR GREETERS PAYMENT BY CHECK IS PREFERRED. Make checks payable to MOAA NE FL. THANK YOU.

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS OFFICER – KATHY SPAIN

NEW VA SECY SAYS VA WILL NOT BE PRIVATIZED: On Feb. 13, the Senate unanimously approved Dr. David Shulkin as the ninth Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Shulkin, 57, is the lone holdover from the Obama administration to serve in President Trump’s cabinet. He has been the VA Undersecretary for Health since July 2015. At his confirmation hearing, Dr. Shulkin promised that “the Department of Veterans Affairs will not be privatized under my watch.” While declaring that he is “a strong advocate for the VA,” and that “the services available in VA are not available in the private sector,” Shulkin does believe that veterans should have access to care in the private sector when they need it. The Veteran’s Choice Program (VCP) was a $16 billion fix passed by Congress in 2014 in an effort to speed up medical care for veterans with no VA care within 40 miles of their home. The VCP is set to expire in August. Consequently, Dr. Shulkin’s initial focus must be to work with lawmakers to extend the VCP legislation which has, to date, allowed more than 1 million veterans to access care. The new VA Secretary is scheduled to appear before the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee on March 8 to provide an update on the Choice Program and to talk about his plans for improving access and quality health care to veterans. CONGRESSMEN STEP UP TO STOP FLAG DESECRATION: On Feb. 3, Rep. Steve Womack (AR), along with 13 other House members, introduced H.J. RES. 61, a joint resolution which restores the constitutional authority of Congress to ban the physical desecration of the American flag. Until the U.S. Supreme Court decision in TEXAS v. JOHNSON in 1989, 48 states had laws prohibiting flag desecration. H.J. RES. 61 would reinstate the power of the American people to protect this important national symbol by giving Congress the authority to prohibit defilement of the nation’s flag. Since the 1989 Supreme Court decision, the House has passed a joint resolution to ban desecration of the American flag 6 times, most recently in 2005. The Senate, however, has never been able to muster the 67 votes required for passage. This time around, both the Fleet Reserve Assoc’n (FRA) and the American Legion are spear heading a big push of support for the joint resolution. A spokesman for the FRA said, “Many brave men and women who are serving and have served in the Armed Services feel strongly about the honor and dignity of ‘Old Glory.’ The physical desecration of this symbol of democracy and freedom is an offense to them and the memory of all those who died defending this Nation.” Please ask your congressman to support this joint resolution. THE NATL SECURITY TEAM OF POTUS: On Feb. 20, President Trump named Lt. Gen. H.R, McMaster as his new National Security Adviser, replacing Gen. Michael Flynn, who had resigned the week before. McMaster, an active duty career Army officer, had been serving as Director of the Army Capabilities Integration Center when he was tapped to serve on the White House Staff. President Trump’s national security team now includes the following: • Rex Tillerson, Secretary of State • Gen. James Mattis (Ret), Secretary of Defense • Mike Pompeo, CIA Director • Gen. John Kelly (Ret), Secretary of Homeland Security • James Comey, FBI Director • Gen. H.R. McMaster, National Security Adviser • Dan Coates, Dir of Natl Intelligence • Gen. Joseph Dunsford, Chrmn of the Joint Chiefs THE PENTAGON’S READINESS CRISIS: On Feb. 1, the House Armed Services Cmte (HASC) began a drill-down on the U.S. military’s readiness crisis with classified and unclassified hearings on ‘The State of the World.’ Gen. David H. Petraeus (Ret)— former CIA Director—and Mr. John E. McLaughlin—former Deputy Director/Acting Director of CIA—gave the

Page 3

principal testimony on both the global environment in which America’s military must operate and the national security threats and challenges they face. Afterwards, Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-TX), Chairman of the HASC, said, “The world situation is dangerous and complex. This is no time to exaggerate or underplay the challenges before us. Only by facing them squarely can we all meet the obligations we owe to the Constitution, to the men and women who serve, and to the American public.” The following week, on Feb. 7 & 8, the service vice chiefs of staff testified on ‘The State of the Military’ before the HASC and the Senate Armed Services Readiness & Mgmt Support Subcommittee. It was not a pretty picture. Severe damage has been inflicted on our military in recent years. Defense budgets have been cut over 20%; readiness problems have gone unaddressed; and there has been a continual shrinking of force size while maintaining a high tempo of operations. Below are testimony excerpts published by the HASC which identify these shocking critical readiness shortfalls: • “OUTRANGED, OUTGUNNED, OUTDATED”: Gen. Daniel Allyn, Army Vice Chief of Staff, testified that the U.S. Army is “outranged, outgunned, [and] outdated.” He told the panel that only “1/3 of Army brigade combat teams (BCTs), 1/4 of combat aviation brigades, and 1/2 of division headquarters are ready. Only 3 of 58 ready BCTs are considered ready to fight tonight.” Allyn also pointed out that this year, under budget caps (aka sequestration), the Army will have to further reduce its size, which will put the lives and safety of soldiers at risk. Allyn minced no words when he told lawmakers, “The most important actions you can take—steps that will have both positive and lasting impact—will be to immediately repeal the 2011 Budget Control Act” (which set up budget caps/sequestration). • “LESS THAN HALF OF THE NAVY’S AIRCRAFT CAN FLY”: Adm. William F. Moran, Vice Chief of Naval Ops, testified that more than half of all the Navy’s planes are grounded because they are either awaiting maintenance, or there is a lack of spare parts for needed repairs. And that includes the Navy’s frontline F/A-18 fighter jets. • “ ‘ANTIQUE’ AIRCRAFT SHRINK OUR ADVANTAGE”: The Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Gen. Stephan W. Wilson, testified to the Committee that our “advantage over potential adversaries is shrinking.” Wilson then added, “The average Air Force aircraft is 27 years old, and more than half of the inventory would qualify for antique vehicle license plates in the state of Virginia.” • “NAVY THE SMALLEST & LEAST READY”: Adm. William Moran, Vice Chief of Ops, told lawmakers that today’s “Navy is the smallest and least ready it’s been in years.” This is due, he said, to the high demand of naval forces, funding cuts, and consistent uncertainty about when Congress would fund the military. (Currently, the Navy has 272 ships with which to meet commitments abroad and maintain an edge over potential adversaries. The Navy’s 2016 Force Structure Assessment called for a fleet of 355 battle force ships.) • “THE AIR FORCE IS THE SMALLEST EVER”: There are currently 5,500 Air Force planes, down from 8,600 in 1991. The AF now has only 55 fighter squadrons, down from 134. Moreover, AF Vice Chief of Staff, Gen. Stephan Wilson told the Committee that “[a]t the very bottom of what we call the hollow in the 1970s, pilots were flying 15 sorties a month, about 20 hours. Today, we’re flying less hours and less sorties than in the 1970s.” The extent of our military’s readiness decline should be disturbing to all Americans. And each of us should be properly sobered by the realization that these vulnerabilities—created by years of budget-driven cuts and neglect— are not a secret. America’s adversaries are aware of them, and the wolves will exploit weakness wherever and whenever they can. Consequently, action must be taken now. Remember: the inverse of ‘Peace through Strength’ is ‘War through Weakness.’ Please ask your representatives in Congress to end defense sequestration and to support a defense budget based on strategic national security goals. NEVER STOP SERVING!

MOAA CHAPTER TRANSITION

LIAISON ARTICLE – APRIL 2017

WAYNE L. ELLIOTT, CWO5 USN (Ret)

MILITARY SPOUSE CAREER INFORMATION TIPS: We move too much for a real job. This is a frustrating cycle because

employers want someone with mi-level experience, however, it’s tough when you move all the time to get promoted to the

next level. So, what to do? First, write down all your cumulative experience. Look for networking opportunities, check out

the local Chamber of Commerce. Update your Resume often. If you have children, talk to the other Mom’s/Dad’s at PTA

meetings or when you are waiting to pick them up from school. Should you interview for another entry-level position, ask

about room for growth and let them know you’re confident in your ability to take that next step. Remind the interviewer you

have worked in many similar positions in the past. Ask to be re-evaluated in six months for a mid-level position. Good

luck!

Please pass this on to any of your family members, neighbors, friends, who may know of Military Officers that are

separating or retiring in the next nine-twelve months. Also, invite them to our monthly meeting. Obtain a short BIO so you

can properly introduce them to our membership.

Page 4

GUEST SPEAKER FOR APRIL 2017

United States Navy

Biography

C a pt. Sean P. Haley

NAS Jacksonville Commanding Officer

Captain Sean Patrick Haley graduated with merit from the United States Naval Academy in 1992. He was designated a naval aviator in 1994 and reported to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 40

(HSL-40) in Mayport, Florida, for training in the SH-608.

Haley's first operational assignment was with HSL-48 "Vipers" in Mayport. He deployed with

detachments aboard USS San Jacinto (CG 56) and USS Normandy (CG 60) where he served as

assistant detachment operations and maintenance officer. Ashore, he served as squadron legal

officer, assistant administration and assistant operations officer. During this tour, he was recognized

as the 1998 Squadron Pilot of the Year.

In 1999, Haley reported to the "Airwolves" of HSL-40 as a SH-608 instructor pilot. While assigned, he

served as the avionics/armament division officer and quality assurance officer. In 2000, he was

recognized as the squadron Pilot of the Year.

In May 2001, Haley reported to Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center at NAS Fallon, Nevada, for training

as a seahawk weapons and tactics instructor (SWTI). Following graduation, Haley returned to the HSL-

48 for duties as the squadron SWTI where he assisted in the design and development of a tactical on-

line detachment training system. Following this assignment, he reported to Air Command and Staff

College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery, Alabama, where he completed phase one of his Joint

Professional Military Education.

In September 2003, Haley reported to the "Grandmasters" of HSL-46 for his department head tour. He

served as the detachment two officer-in-charge on board USS Spruance (DD 963) and completed a

deployment to the Arabian Gulf with the USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) Carrier Strike Group.

Ashore, he served as squadron maintenance officer and safety officer and was recognized as the 2005

Squadron Officer of the Year.

From November 2005 until March 2008, Haley served as an action officer in the Joint Operations

Division (JOO), Current Operations Directorate (J-3), of the Joint Staff, in Washington, D.C. While

assigned, he spearheaded the transfer of operations in Afghanistan from U.S. to NATO control under

the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and aligned worldwide NATO operations with the

Global Force Management system.

In November 2008, he reported to HSL-44 as executive officer and assumed command of the world

famous "Swamp Foxes" in March 2010. While in command, the squadron relocated to NAS

Jacksonville and transitioned to the MH-60R; achieving full operational certification six months ahead

of schedule. In 2010, the squadron was awarded the Golden Wrench for maintenance excellence and

he was recognized by his peers as the Naval Air Forces 201O Navy and Marine Corps Leadership

Award recipient.

From July 2011 until April 2013, Haley was assigned as the sensors, ASW, aviation and directed energy

branch head in the Surface Warfare Directorate (N96) on the OPNAV staff. In May 2013, he transferred

to the OPNAV Air Warfare Directorate (N98) where he served as the multi-mission branch head and MH-

60R requirements officer until his detachment in January 2015. In February 2015, Haley reported to NAS

Jacksonville, Florida, as executive officer. He became the 47th commanding officer on Aug. 18, 2016.

Haley is also a graduate of Joint Forces Staff College and has accumulated more than 3,000 total flight

hours. His personal awards include the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the

Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), the Air Medal (strike/flight), the Navy and Marine Corps

Commendation Medal (three awards}, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Navy and Marine

Corps Achievement Medal (four awards} and various other unit commendations.

Page 5

MOAA NE FL P.O. BOX 442022 JACKSONVILLE, FL 32222-2222

24 March 2017

APPEAL FOR UNPAID CHAPTER DUES Ref: (a) Chapter Bylaws Article IV, Section 3 states: “After April 1 of that year, the Board may drop, without further notice and without hearing, any member from the roll for non-payment of dues. The member shall thereupon forfeit all rights and privileges of membership”. Annual MOAA NE Florida Chapter dues became due on 1 January 2017. At the current time our membership records indicate that approximately 36 members are in arrears on their 2017 annual dues. All organizations are dependent on their membership and we will make every effort to keep each of you as members of our chapter. While a lot of the day to day work is done by active members and members who attend our regular meetings benefit greatly from the camaraderie with other members; we are here for all members. No matter if you are active or not you are a valued member of the NE FL Chapter. Your absence would be a significant loss to the chapter. Please forward your check of $25.00 (Regular Members) or $12.50 (Auxiliary Members) to the above address for your 2017 annual chapter dues. Respectfully, LT David L. Mosley, USN (RET) Membership Chair, MOAA NE FL Chapter (252) 469-1824

Email: dlynnmosley@gmail.com

MOAA NE FL EMBLEM SHIRTS/WINDBREAKERS

Men's Shirts w/MOAA Emblem and NORTHEAST FL CHAPTER on Left Side W/POCKET (7 oz. weave) $33.00. Add $3.00 for Name on Right Side. Colors Red/White/Navy Blue/Royal Blue.

Men's / Ladies Shirts w/MOAA Emblem and NORTHEAST FL CHAPTER on Left Side Without POCKET (6.5 oz. weave) Men's $30.00 / Ladies $26.00. Add $3.00 for Name on Right Side. Colors Red/White/Navy Blue/Royal Blue.

Light Weight Navy Blue All Weather Water Resistant Sports Tech Jacket with Liner and inside Pocket w/MOAA Emblem and NORTHEAST FL CHAPTER on Left Side, $37.75. Add $3.00 for Name on Right Side. On orders of 10 or more, cost is $35.00 each plus the $3.00 Name charge.

NO SHIPPING COSTS INVOLVED!

ATTENTION

The Editor of the “Nor’Easter, CWO2 Dick Chadwell has recently had two hospital stays and was just discharged today, thus the lateness of this month’s publishing of the newsletter. I’m not going to be able to continue to be the publisher. I am looking for someone to take over this position. I will meet with you and aid you in this position. I have enjoyed this little labor of love, but find that due to medical reasons, I must hang up may hat. Call me if you have an interest at 904-264-5589.

Page 7

PLACE YOUR AD HERE!

PLACE YOUR AD HERE!

Page 8

Military Officers Association of America

Northeast Florida, Inc., (FL-18)

P.O. Box 442022

Jacksonville, Florida 32222-2022

2017 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION OR RENEWAL NEW MEMBERSHIP or RENEWAL NORTHEAST FLORIDA CHAPTER

The Military Officers Association of America

A local organization comprised of retired, regular, reserve and former officers of the uniformed services. Dedicated to the safeguarding and the promoting the best interests of Our Country; its uniformed services; its members and their Dependents; and their survivors, in every proper manner. Chapter members are required to have and maintain a National MOAA membership.

Annual dues are $25.00 ($12.50) for (Surviving Spouse)

Chapter dues are payable in January yearly. Please enclose your check; Make check payable to: MOAA NEFL

Please complete the following for our records and mail to: MOAA NE FL CHAPTER

P.O. BOX 442022

JACKSONVILLE, FL 32222-2022

For renewals please indicate and changed information

LAST FIRST INT RANK SERVICE ACTIVE/RETIRED DATE OF BIRTH

SPOUSE’S NAME

ADDRESS STREET APT# CITY ST ZIP

PHONE # EMAIL ADDRESS: _

SIGNATURE