4 FRA Education Foundation

14 Innovations for Personal Savings

32 Saluting Seabees

Db ACCT Aw XPO+ + +InnovatIon Database InnovatIon account InnovatIon awarDs InnovatIon expo

innovatingsuccess4

M a r c h 2 0 1 2S e q u e S t r at i o n c o M p l i c at e S F Y 2 0 1 3 B u d g e t p r o c e S S 8

You don’t have to �ght

this alone.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with, or died from asbestos related lung cancer or mesothelioma, we may be able to help you get monetary compensation from the asbestos companies.

With over 65 years of collective experience in asbestos litigation, the professionals at Bergman Draper Ladenburg welcome the chance to provide you with the highest quality representation and the individual attention you deserve.

MESOTHELIOMA

The Northwest’s Leading Asbestos Litigation Firm

614 First Avenue4th FloorSeattle, WA 98104

206.957.9510888.647.6007 Toll Freewww.bergmanlegal.com

We accept cases throughout the

United States and Canada

Call for information and a free consultation.

1

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

Volume 91 Number 3

Featured18 InnovATIng FoR SucceSS

The U.S. Coast Guard is promoting a culture of innovation and collaboration so it can continue to effectively fulfill its varied and demanding missions well into the future and, at the same time, save money and improve the quality of life for its members.

Departments 2 communIcATIonS

4 FRA educATIon FoundATIon

5 ned PeRSPecTIve Southern Exposure Counterpoint

6 SHIPmATe FoRum

8 on & oFF cAPIToL HILLSequestration Complicates FY 2013 Budget Process

14 FInAncIAL newSInnovations for Personal Savings

16 memBeRSHIP mATTeRSChoosing and Training Branch Leadership

27 ReunIonS

28 LookIng FoR…

30 TAPS

32 HISToRy & HeRITAge Saluting Seabees

34 newS FRom THe BRAncHeS

36 FRA AuxILIARy newSMessage from East Coast Regional President Jackie Scarbro

on THe coveRThe four key components of the coast Guard’s Innovation Program — the service’s Innovation database, Innovation account, the captain Niels P. Thomsen Innovation awards and the coast Guard Innovation Expo — facilitate a culture that promotes creativity and collaboration.

FRA IS A congReSSIonALLy cHARTeRed, non-PRoFIT oRgAnIzATIon AdvocATIng FoR cuRRenT And FoRmeR enLISTed memBeRS oF THe u.S. nAvy, mARIne coRPS And coAST guARd on cAPIToL HILL. FoR moRe InFoRmATIon on THe BeneFITS oF memBeRSHIP, PLeASe vISIT www.FRA.oRg oR cALL 800-FRA-1924.

LoyALTy, PRoTecTIon And SeRvIce

March 2012

18

8

14

2

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

communIcATIonS

Eileen Murphy

NatioNal officers/Board of directors

National President Jeffrey A. Gilmartin,Potomac Region Branch 207

National Vice President Mark A. Kilgore, Pensacola Branch 22

National executive dir. Joseph L. Barnes, Navy Department Branch 181

finance officer Paul Rigby, Honorary Member

Junior PNP James W. Scarbro, Chesapeake Branch 40

National Parliamentarian PRPNE William E. Starkey, Jr., South Jersey Branch 57

National chaplain Katherine Grey, Potomac Region Branch 207

regioNal PresideNts

New england Philip A. Justin, Quonset Davisville, Branch 42

Northeast David Munday III, Lakehurst Branch 124

east coast Darrell F. McKinley, Jr., Elizabeth City Branch 293

southeast Frederick Bolz, Low Country Branch 269

North central Charles “Chuck” Neureuther, Wolverine Branch 298

south central Arthur R. McAvoy, Lone Star Branch 11

southwest Stanley J. Lewandowski, Imperial Beach Branch 289

West coast Richard J. Fetro, Santa Clara Valley Branch 101

Northwest Pete Lazzaretti, Mt. Rainier Branch 104

actiVe duty adVisory couNcil

Master chief Petty officer of the Navy Rick West

sergeant Major of the Marine corps Micheal Barrett

Master chief Petty officer of the coast guard Michael Leavitt

reserVe adVisory couNcil

force Master chief of the Navy reserve Chris Wheeler

usMc reserve force sergeant Major James Booker

Master chief Petty officer of the coast guard reserve force

Mark Allen

fra today MagaziNe

Publisher FRA

National executive director Joseph L. Barnes

Managing editor Eileen Murphy

contributing editor Lauren Armstrong

design and art direction

FIREBRAND, Alexandria, VA www.firebrandstudios.com

design director Scott Rodgerson

Production Manager Sandy Jones

fra today (ISSN 0028-1409) IS PuBLIShED MoNthLy By FRA, 125 N. WESt St., ALExANDRIA, VA 22314-2754. A MEMBER’S SuBSCRIPtIoN IS CoVERED By thE MEMBER’S ANNuAL DuES. PERIoDICALS PoStAGE PAID At ALExANDRIA, VA AND ADDItIoNAL oFFICES. PuBLICAtIoN oF NoN-SPoNSoRED ADVERtISING IN fRa toDay DoES Not CoNStItutE AN ENDoRSEMENt By thE FRA oR ItS REPRESENtAtIVES. PostMaster: seNd address chaNges to: MeMBer serVices, fra, 125 N. West st., alexaNdria, Va 22314-2754. fRa toDay IS PuBLIShED IN thE INtEREStS oF ALL CuRRENt AND FoRMER ENLIStED PERSoNNEL oF thE u.S. NAVy, MARINE CoRPS, AND CoASt GuARD. ELIGIBLE NoN-MEMBERS ARE Not ENtItLED to SuBSCRIPtIoN RAtES. EStABLIShED 1 NoVEMBER 1923. tItLE REGIStERED WIth u.S. PAtENt oFFICE.

FRA ADMINIStRAtIVE hEADquARtERS: 125 N. WESt St., ALExANDRIA, VA 22314-2754 PhoNE: 703-683-1400, 800-FRA-1924 • FAx: 703-549-6610 • E-MAIL: FRAtoDAy@FRA.oRG

W W W . F R A . o R G

VoLuME 91 NuMBER 3

Eileen Murphy is the Director of Marketing and Communications and serves as the Managing Editor of fRa today. Please contact her at eileen@fra.org.

calling all Branches!!January’s FRA TodAy containEd the plan for the Membership Matters column for 2012 which includes submissions from branches on the specific topics outlined below. Be recognized and help motivate others! Send your submissions to:

Membership MattersFRA125 N. West StAlexandria, VA 22314Or email penny@fra.org

april: Setting branch goals If your branch has set and achieved a goal — or if you are just embark-ing on a new goal — please let us know how you decided on the goal and what your steps are to making that goal a reality.

May: Retention effortsHas your branch achieved a 100% retention rate or better? What is it that you do to make that happen? Give us the statistics and the stories!

JunE: Recruiting effortsWe are frequently asked for tips on how to promote membership in FRA. Please share what you do to increase your success in recruiting new FRA shipmates.

July: outreach eventsWhether you attend an outreach event as an individual or as part of a branch activity, we would like you to share how you find the events, what you do to stand out in the crowd and how you judge whether or not it was a success.

AuguST: community servicePlease share what you are doing to help your local community with stories and photos.

sEptEMbEr: communication with shipmatesWe know that membership retention rates are directly connected to shipmates feeling involved and connected. What do you do to keep in touch with your shipmates?

octobEr: Improving branch meetings The success of branch meetings is a key component of the vitality of the branch. What does your branch do to make branch meetings interest-ing, informative and worth the trip?

novEMbEr: Starting a new branchIf you were involved with starting a new branch, please share what you did to make it happen. What motivated you? What are the steps you took to get going? What advice would you share with others?

dEcEMbEr: Best of the year review and Bzs!

OR, MAIL TO:

YES.

CAREER INSIGNIA

INITIALS DESIRED (3): YEARS OF SERVICE:

I WISH TO PAY AS FOLLOWS:

* Plus $14.95 per watch for engraving, s&h. * PA residents add 6% ($8.40) sales tax.

SHIPPING ADDRESS (WE CANNOT SHIP TO P.O. BOXES)

DIAMOND MILITARY WATCH HONORS YOUR SERVICE TO COUNTRY

UNITED STATES NAVY & MARINE CORPSCAREER SERVICE WATCHES

Personalized with Your Service Emblem, Career/Division Insignia, Initials and Years Served.

We proudly present our Official U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Military Watches featuring a

sculpted Service Branch Emblem dial, plus your Careeror Division Insignia and Service Ribbon set within theexclusive watch band.

Your satisfaction is guaranteed or you may return your watch within30 days for replacement or refund – no questions asked.

So, order yours today!

FLAG PINWITH EVERY ORDERFREE

Navy Service Watch shown with Electrician’s Mate (N4) Insignia.

Marine Corps Service Watch shown with 2nd Marine Division (M2) Insignia.

CALL TOLL FREE TO ORDER: 1-800-255-3048

CARMIL_NA0411 2/8/11 9:00 AM Page 1

4

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

ScholarshipsthEsE arE challEnging tiMEs. Every day, young men and women risk their lives to protect and defend our Nation. But all too often, they leave the mili-tary with skills not needed in the pub-lic sector workforce, or have sustained injuries to prevent them from pursu-ing the career for which they were trained. This is reflected in the trou-bling high unemployment rate among veterans.

FRA believes that educating our service members and veterans is an important duty. FRA has been an out-spoken advocate for enhanced edu-cation benefits for many years. For example, FRA was instrumental in en-suring the new Post-9/11 GI Bill ben-efit was available to military personnel who previously had no education benefits, and allowed transferability of benefits to family members of career service members.

The FRA Education Foundation’s scholarship program has also been helping deserving students reach their educational and professional goals for decades, presenting annual awards of up to $5,000 to individuals pursuing college and graduate  degrees. Thanks to the generosity of our members, legacy gifts and corporate sponsors, the scope of the program has grown substantially since 2000, increasing the number of recipients by more than 50 percent and boosting the mon-etary value of the awards by more than 260 percent. Just since 2000, the FRA scholarship program has provided 274 scholarships totaling $1,860,590.

We recognize more is needed to ensure that our Nation’s military, and their families, are afforded an edu-cation that will benefit their future — and that of our country. The FRA Education Foundation  makes  schol-arships available to eligible* full-time students who are U.S. citizens attend-ing  accredited colleges and universi-ties in the United States.

Application ProcessThe applications are posted online at www.fra.org/foundation. FRA Education Foundation  makes schol-arship applications available  from September 1st thru April 15th each year for the following school year. Scholarship applications must be postmarked no later than April 15. All applicants are considered for any scholarship the FRA is able to of-fer during a specific year, provided the applicant meets the eligibility re-quirement for the award (based on the desires of the donor). Scholarship recipients are notified in writing and by telephone. FRA only notifies the applicants who have been selected to receive a scholarship.

Have questions about FRA Education Foundation scholarships? E-mail Scholarship Coordinator Marilyn Smith at scholars@fra.org and have your questions answered.

other Scholarship Programs

The walter e. Beall ScholarshipFRA’s Past Regional Presidents admin-ister a scholarship for students who aspire to further their education in aeronautical engineering or pursue avi-ation-oriented degrees. These scholar-ships are derived from the estate of Past Regional President Southeast Walter Beall. Applications for the Walter E. Beall Scholarships are available by writing to: Walter E. Beall Scholarship, 4911 Fennell Court, Suffolk, VA 23435, Attn: W. R. Holcombe. Requests can also be submitted via e-mail to prp.inc2@verizon.net. Applications for the Beall Scholarship must be sent to the above address and be postmarked no later than 15 April. Visit www.walter-beallscholarship.org

The FRA Auxiliary ScholarshipsThe Auxiliary of the Fleet Reserve Association also sponsors an annual scholarship program. Applications for FRA scholarships can be used to apply for Auxiliary scholarships; however, applicants who wish to be considered for both FRA and Auxiliary awards must submit separate application packages. (Applicants should simply check the FRA or Auxiliary scholar-ship box on Part B of the application and address the package to the ap-propriate organization.  Never check both boxes or your application may be disqualified.)  Visit www.la-fra.org  for more information.

FRA educATIon FoundATIon

*Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel and their families are eligible for FRA Education Foundation scholarships.

EDUCATION FOUNDATION

5

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

Southern Exposure counterpointWE rEcEivEd a nuMbEr of responses to the recent “Southern Exposure” story (January 2012, FRA Today) about members of VX/VXE-6 who served at McMurdo Station, Antarctica. Many are experiencing an unusual incidence of cancer they allege is the result of radiation exposure from the PM-3A nuclear plant that powered the facility.

Though the majority of the re-sponses were positive, we received sev-eral from personnel who worked on the PM-3A plant that took strong ex-ception to its portrayal as the potential source of radiation exposure. It is im-portant to note that none of the state-ments in the story, nor those received in response, were intended to impugn or cast a negative reflection on the reputation of the more than 300 men of the elite Naval Shore Nuclear Power Program. Their contribution to the suc-cess of Navy nuclear power in arduous environs is noteworthy and reflects a strong commitment to the highest tra-ditions of service in the U.S. Navy.

Some letters pointed out techni-cal errors and misleading statements in the story. For example, several PM-3A workers challenged the reference to Strontium-90 as the fuel used in the reactor. Shipmate Bob Garland wrote, “Strontium-90 is not a fissile material, but is a byproduct of fission of uranium. The only Strontium-90 on the ice at that time was the heat source for [a genera-tor], which powered a weather station.”

We also received letters clarifying that the leaks described in the article were not from the primary reactor fluid, but rather a leak of shield water surrounding the reactor vessel. Many adamantly opposed the story’s impli-cation that personnel were drinking and bathing with contaminated water. Capt. Charles Fegley III, USN (Ret.), the first officer-in-charge of Crew III at PM-3A, wrote, “From 1961 until

1964, drinking water came from melt-ed snow taken from a snow mine lo-cated at the base of what was known as Transmitter Hill, quite a distance from and at a higher elevation than the base of Observation Hill. Subsequent to 1964, all the drinking water for the base was produced by the distillation of seawater.”

Shipmate Billy “Ace” Baker noted that “the belief that the PM-3A caused cancer and numerous other diseases, including PTSD, in Antarctic veterans has been making the rounds via e-mail for about 10 years.”

Shipmate Arthur Tate summed up the concerns of many, saying, “I believe the people interviewed told the author what they believed to be true and that the article probably summarizes those views. On the other hand, I know that many of the statements are not factual and believe that there is almost a com-plete and total misunderstanding of some of the data they tried to interpret.”

FRA appreciates these respons-es and welcomes the views of those shipmates who worked at the PM-3A plant, many of whom asserted that plant operators are not experiencing the same incidence of cancer as those who served in VX/VXE-6. According to Shipmate John Harding, “We know from studies (and believe me, we do watch those developments closely)

that our rates of development of vari-ous types of cancer are not statistically higher than the rate of cancer devel-opment in the general population. It seems really strange that those who worked fulltime in the facility suffered no significant, chronic ill effects as a result, while people who primarily served three or four miles away had all the [problems].”

The shipmates who brought the story to our attention felt they were unable to establish a dialogue across Navy communities to help explain their case to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Southern Exposure story has apparently created that dialogue, which will be expand-ed at the Veterans’ Advisory Board on Dose Reconstruction (VBDR) in San Antonio on March 22 and 23, 2012. To further the discussion, FRA has established a Southern Exposure Community at www.fra.org/McMurdo. Some of the letters we received will be posted in their entirety and we invite all concerned shipmates to share their per-spectives on this issue. (Note that log-in is required and only FRA members have access to this discussion forum.)

It’s unclear what caused the VX/VXE-6 members’ health problems or if the similarity in their illnesses is a mere coincidence. But we owe it to our ship-mates to help find answers. Hopefully, the story and the ongoing dialogue will help establish the cause of these ship-mates’ medical problems and, more specifically, determine if these are re-lated to their military service.

ned PeRSPecTIve

Joe Barnes

Joe barnes is FRA’s National Executive Director and Chairman of the National Committee on Legislative Service and a member of the Special Committee on Future Strategic Planning. A member of Navy Department Branch 181, he is also an advisor to the National Committees on Budget and Finance and Membership and Retention.

None of the statements in the

story, nor those received in re-

sponse, were intended to impugn

or cast a negative reflection on

the reputation of the more than

300 men of the elite Naval Shore

Nuclear Power Program.

6

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

SHIPmATe FoRum

Agent orange exposureOne of our recently departed shipmates, Milton Greenfield, Jr., was exposed to Agent Orange while he served aboard an AmPhib Ship. He also drove the Captain’s car and unloaded equipment for the U.S. Marines. Milton had a lot of trouble trying to get medical [compensation] from the VA and was turned down several times. The VA told him, “You were in the Navy and Navy people were on ships and NOT exposed to Agent Orange.” Finally after other sailors and Milton’s former captain came forward, the VA reversed their deci-sion and allowed medical coverage for Shipmate Greenfield.

You may want to reprint this in FRA Today, because there may be other shipmates from other branches with a similar problem.

Floyd G. Hunt

FRA Response: Proving that a Vietnam veteran served on inland waterways or had “boots on the ground” is key to presuming Agent Orange exposure, and FRA is working to broaden the definition of Vietnam service to include so-called “blue water” veterans. The VA has already expanded its definition to include those who served on vessels that oper-ated primarily or exclusively on Vietnam’s inland waterways; ships that temporarily operated in these inland waterways or docked to the shore; and ships that operated in Vietnam’s close coastal waters for extended periods with evidence that crew-members went ashore. A list of vessels known to meet these criteria is available at www.fra.org/agentorange. If a veteran’s service aboard one of these ships can be confirmed through his military records during the specified time frames, exposure to herbicides can be presumed and service-related benefits may be available for Agent Orange-related ailments.

good disney dealIf any shipmates are planning a trip to Disney World in Florida, please check out the hotel rates at Shades of Green, an Armed Forces Recreation Center. My family party of nine reserved rooms for a week of fantastic enjoyment at half price of any hotels in the area. The luxury accommo-dations were beyond belief. I was also provided a mobile riding vehicle for the entire week at a very reasonable cost.

The best part was my entire family was the first in line for every bus trip to the park and all the festivities in the park. To reserve online, visit www.shadesofgreen.org or call 888-593-2242 or call direct to the hotel at 407-824-3400.

James E. Kenney, Jr.

military etiquette on TvI recently saw a CBS television drama called “Hawaii Five O,” in which Alex O’Loughlin and Terry O’Quinn play the role of Navy Seal Officers. Toward the end of one episode both actors are outside in their dress khakis and render a hand salute with no cover (hat). As a retired Chief Petty Officer, I think these television producers need more knowledge of military etiquette. This is not the first time I have seen this.

Jim White

Every television channel repeatedly showed the two fe-male sailors greeting each other [with a kiss] and further explained that it was okay under the new Code of Ethics. I think, out of respect to us old timers, it should be “don’t ask, don’t tell, don’t show.”

Jim Sutherland

Shift colorsFRA Today stated that Shift Colors [the Navy retiree

newsletter] has gone digital. I don’t like the digital distribu-tion of pubs once on paper, as they can’t be passed on to others, easily archived for dependents, or easily available for rereading. I miss [the print version] and have no idea how to subscribe digitally.

Please let me know how I may get it again, online if necessary.

Keep up the good work! Larry Fosgate

FRA Response: If you haven’t already done so, you can sign up for e-mail delivery of Shift Colors. Just send an e-mail to Mill_ShiftColors@navy.mil and include the following infor-mation: your full name, your e-mail address (please do write it out; it’s much easier to copy it into our database), your rank or preferred salutation (Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc.), your military af-filiation (whether or not you’re retired, active duty, a veteran, a surviving spouse, or just someone who’s interested in receiv-ing the newsletter). Also, please note there is an underscore between “Mill” and “ShiftColors.”

submissions: Send Shipmate forum letters to: Editor, fRa today, 125 N. West St. Alexandria, VA 22314. E-mail submissions may be sent to fratoday@fra.org. Please include “Shipmate Forum” in the subject line. FRA reserves the right to select and edit letters for publication. Letters published in Shipmate forum reflect the opinions and views of FRA members. they do not necessarily reflect the official position of FRA as a whole. FRA is not responsible for the accuracy of letter content.

$30 Billionin Bankruptcy Trust Funds were set aside for victims of

Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma

700 BROADWAY | NEW YORK, NY 100031-800-CANCER-7 WWW.WEITZLUX.COM

B R A N C H O F F I C E S I N N E W J E R S E Y & C A L I F O R N I A

USE YOUR SMART PHONE TO SCAN THISCODE FOR MORE

FREE consultation 1-800-CANCER-7 www.LungCancerTrusts.com

LUXENBERG P.C.ASBESTOS | DRUGS/MEDICAL DEVICES | ENVIRONMENTAL | NEGLIGENCE

WEITZ

8

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

on & oFF cAPIToL HILL

Fy 2013 dod Budget detailsIn anticipation of the Administration’s FY 2013 budget request, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and Army General Martin E. Dempsey, chair-man of Joint Chiefs of Staff, held a press conference in late January to out-line $480 billion in proposed Defense budget cuts over the next 10 years, beginning in 2013. Panetta indicated that the cost of military personnel has grown at an unsustainable rate and the Department of Defense (DoD) must get healthcare costs under control. The proposed solutions include:• TRICARE fee increases for retir-

ees under age 65 using a tiered ap-proach based on retired pay that requires senior-grade retirees to pay more;

• A new enrollment fee for TRICARE-for-life retirees, with rates also based on retired pay levels;

• Increases in pharmacy co-pays that provide incentives for use of ge-neric medication and TRICARE’s Home Delivery program; and

• A BRAC-type commission to re-view retirement benefits and rec-ommend “cost-effective” changes.

Panetta also cited the need for additional base closures and stated that active duty and Reserve annual pay increases for FY 2013 (1.7 per-cent) and FY 2014 will be equal to the Employment Cost Index (ECI), but for FY 2015 through FY 2021 proposed pay hikes will be less than the ECI.

Sequestration complicates FY 2013 Budget Process John Davis

as you rEad this edition of FRA Today lawmakers have received the Administration’s FY 2013 federal budget pro-posal and are trying to determine how the 2011 Budget Control Act (BCA) will ultimately impact the FY 2013 spending plan. Congress has traditionally had difficulty passing annual defense authorization and appropriation measures on schedule, and the complexities of the BCA are bound to slow the process further.

The BCA calls for automatic budget cuts (sequestra-tion) to take effect on January 15, 2013. Half of these re-ductions — between $500 and $600 billion — are required to come from the Department of Defense (DoD), which would amount to about 20 percent of the overall DoD bud-get. These cuts would be in addition to the $480 billion already slated to be trimmed from Defense spending over the next 10 years. Sequestration reductions could further jeopardize essential military pay and benefit programs, which would have a significant negative impact on recruit-ing, retention and overall military readiness.

Legislation has been introduced in both the House and

the Senate to temporarily exclude the Defense Department from sequestration. The House measure (H.R. 3662) would exclude DoD from the cuts for the first year, while the Senate bill (S. 2065) would eliminate approximately $110 billion in cuts for 2013 by freezing federal employ-ees’ pay and through employee attrition.

It cannot be stressed enough that if sequestration cuts take effect, such deep DoD reductions pose a threat to na-tional security and will substantially impact member pay and benefits. (See story below.) Now is the time for every shipmate to use the FRA Action Center at www.fra.org to ask their elected officials to support H.R. 3662 and S. 2065. Ask your spouse, neighbors and friends to weigh in, too.

This is an election year and legislators are particularly sensitive to the concerns of constituents. In addition to being a presidential election year, the 2012 elections in November will also determine 33 Senate seats and all House of Representatives posts. New boundaries have been defined by state legislatures for all House districts, except in states that have only one congressional district.

Phot

ogra

ph b

y W

in M

cNam

ee/G

etty

Imag

es.

9

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

on & oFF cAPIToL HILL

FRA Alerts congressional Leaders to Budget Threats

In response to the anticipated cuts in healthcare and retirement benefits (see page 8), FRA advised House and Senate leaders of the Association’s strong op-position to proposals aimed at significantly altering promised benefits. In a let-ter to leaders of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees — Senators Carl Levin (Mich.) and John McCain (Ariz.), Representatives Howard McKeon (Calif.) and Adam Smith (Wash.) — FRA National President Jeffrey Gilmartin outlined the concerns of past, present and future service members who are wor-ried about pending cuts to the Defense budget. FRA also called on the lawmakers to honor commitments made to those who served in the past as well as safeguard the interests of those serving today and in the future.

“Many of these retirees were promised free healthcare for life in return for careers of service with low pay and often arduous duty and associated sacrifices,” explained Gilmartin in the letter. “The majority of them retired from the enlisted ranks with significantly less retired pay than more recent retirees who’ve ben-efited from significant (and long overdue) pay and benefit enhancements enacted since 2000. These older retirees are increasingly anxious about plans to impose a TRICARE-for-Life fee and increase TRICARE Prime premiums above and be-yond the 13-percent hike and future CPI-indexed adjustments authorized for this year.”

Be Heard!FRA offers several vehicles to make it easy for shipmates to communicate their views to their elected officials:

Legislative Priorities Survey: As part of its mission to bring the enlisted voice to Capitol Hill, FRA is conduct-ing an online survey  to determine

which military and veterans benefits are most important to its members and their families. The brief survey asks participants to rate the benefits and quality-of-life programs they’ve earned through service to our na-tion. Visit www.fra.org/survey to participate.

Communicate With Your Elected Officials: This useful, free guide includes a direc-tory of the 112th Congress and in-cludes helpful tips on effectively ex-pressing concerns to lawmakers. To request your free copy, send an e-mail to teresa@fra.org with your name, mailing address, rank and branch of service or call 1-800-FRA-1924.

FRA’s Action Center: This free online service allows visitors to send prewritten messages (or visitors can draft their own) to their members of Congress, urging their support or op-position to legislative proposals that impact current and former service personnel.

Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett, the 17th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, poses with (l to r) Assistant Director Legislative Programs, Ed Dockery, FRA National President Jeffrey A. Gilmartin and Director Legislative Programs John Davis who participated in the Combined Awards Program Ceremony in Quantico, Va., Jan. 24, 2012.

Phot

ogra

ph b

y La

nce

Cpl

. Cod

y A

. Fod

ale.

10

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

on & oFF cAPIToL HILL

Retiree Account Statements

Most military retirees should have received

two annual Defense Finance and Accounting

Service (DFAS) Retiree Account Statements

(RAS). These two-page documents summa-

rize pay, benefits and deductions, and provide

other important retirement pay information.

One statement includes the new payment

amount as of December 30, 2011, based on a

3.6-percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA)

for 2012. Another statement shows the new

payment amount as of February 1, 2012,

based on federal income tax adjustments

caused by changes to the 2012 tax tables.

A monthly electronic Retiree Account

Statement (eRAS) is now available to all

military retirees currently receiving retire-

ment payments. The eRAS is only available

on myPay, the official online account man-

agement system for DFAS. The statements

are available by the first of each month, and

date back to Nov. 1, 2011, when the eRAS

was first offered. Retirees only need to reg-

ister an e-mail address in their myPay ac-

count, and DFAS can send an e-mail reminder

each month when individual statements are

available.

Visit https://www.mypay.gov for more information.

If retirees cannot access myPay or they need a

RAS that is no longer in their myPay account,

they should fax a detailed written request

to 800-469-6559 or mail it to DFAS Retired

Pay, P.O. Box 7130, London, KY 40742-7130.

Requests should be dated and must include

your name, Social Security number and sig-

nature. Please specify exactly what informa-

tion is needed and the dates that should be

included in the statement.

doc Fix, Payroll Tax debateAs FRA Today goes to press, House and Senate members tasked with extending the deadlines for implementing scheduled Medicare/TRICARE reimbursement-rate cuts (a.k.a. “doc fix”) and Social Security payroll tax cuts may be deadlocked. Little progress was made during several meet-ings of the conference committee for the “Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Continuation Act” (H.R. 3630), which also includes language related to extending long-term unemployment benefits.

Prior to the holidays, lawmakers extended these programs through February 29, 2012, and the doc fix has been entangled in a partisan struggle over other issues. If legislation is not passed before the deadline, doctors seeing Medicare and TRICARE patients will have their reimburse-ments cut by more than 27 percent. Many healthcare providers have threatened to stop seeing Medicare and TRICARE patients if the cuts take effect, causing anxiety within the military and retiree communities. Both Democrats and Republicans agree that these programs should be extended for at least a year, but the disagreement is how to pay for them. FRA is tracking this closely and strongly supports a permanent resolution to ensure all beneficiaries have access to quality medical care.

FRA Letter to Budget committeesFRA dispatched letters to the chairmen and ranking members of the House and Senate Budget Committees, urging them to oppose any budget resolution that includes requests to drastically increase TRICARE fees for military retirees or reduce military retirement benefits. The letters were sent to Rep. Paul Ryan (Wis.) and Senator Kent Conrad (N.D.), respective committee chair-men, and Rep. Chris Van Hollen (Md.) and Senator Jeff Sessions (Ala.), the committees’ ranking members, and also included a request that the FY 2013 Budget Resolution include an annual pay increase for active duty and Reserve personnel that is at least equal to the Employment Cost Index (ECI). A copy of the letter is available on FRA’s website (www.fra.org).

To learn more about DoD budget cuts targeted at military retirees, read Tom Philpott’s “Military Update” column (2–2–2012) at www.fra.org.

military Health System conferenceNED Joe Barnes and ORM Bob Washington represented FRA at the 2012 Military Health System (MHS) Conference at the Gaylord Convention Center, National Harbor, Md. Keynote speakers at the event included Dr. Jonathan Woodson, Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs); Dr. JoAnn Rooney, acting Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel and Readiness); VADM William Gorney, USN, director of the Joint Staff; Navy Surgeon General VADM Adam Robinson and his sister-service counterparts.

Woodson cited four major cost-saving healthcare initiatives, including:

• Expanding patient-centered medical home concepts throughout the MHS

• Reducing tobacco use and obesity

• Improving patient safety

• Greater focus on innovation

The conference theme was “From Health Care to Health.” During the four-day conference, the 3,000 attendees learned about the state of military medicine across the services and at-tended breakout sessions focused on 12 tracks, including wounded warrior care and DoD/VA collaboration.

ReTIRee ISSueS

1013⁄16

101⁄2

103⁄4107⁄8

1013⁄16

101⁄2

103⁄4107⁄8

81⁄4

88

1⁄8

77⁄8

73⁄4

75⁄8

83⁄8

81⁄4

88

1⁄8

77⁄8

73⁄4

75⁄8

83⁄8

81⁄4 8

81⁄8

77⁄8

73⁄4

75⁄8

83⁄8

81⁄48

81⁄8

77⁄8

73⁄4

75⁄8

83⁄8

107⁄8

101⁄2

1013⁄16103⁄4

107⁄8

101⁄2

1013⁄16103⁄4

25_B_I = 7x10 Master_Installment

Keep Your

American Pride Close

to Your HeartTrue love of country soars on the wings of your heart. And that American Pride is expressed to perfection in this stunning piece of fi ne jewelry for you to wear now and forever—presenting the “American Pride Crystal Heart Pendant,” a fi rst-of-its-kind jewelry creation exclusively from The Bradford Exchange.

Hand-crafted in brilliant faceted crystal and solid sterling silver

The “American Pride Crystal Heart Pendant” is crafted of faceted crystal that refl ects the light with brilliance and warmth. Look beyond the shimmering surface, and you’ll see the great American Eagle soaring through the air against a fi eld of red, white and blue. This art is the work of acclaimed wildlife artist Larry K. Martin, guaranteed to move and inspire all who see its powerful majesty. The pendant is suspended from an 18-inch solid sterling silver rope chain by a solid sterling silver bail. The perfect way to show your love of country or a thoughtful gift, your pendant comes in a velvet pouch with a Certifi cate of Authenticity, and backed by our unconditional 120-day guarantee.

Limited time offer—order today!

The “American Pride Crystal Heart Pendant” is available for a limited time at the remarkable price of just $89*, which you can pay for in 4 installments of $22.25. To reserve your pendant, send no money now; just fill out and mail the Reservation Application today. But hurry, so you don’t miss out!

Pendant arrives in a velvet jewelry pouch

with gift box

Look deep into the crystal

heart and you’ll

see the American Eagle,

symbol of the

United States of America,

soaring proudly in front

of the American fl ag.

Includes stunning 18˝ solid

sterling silver rope chain

©2011 BGE 01-07795-001-BI2

American Pride Crystal Heart Pendant

RESERVATION APPLICATION SEND NO MONEY NOW

9 3 4 5 M i l w a u k e e A v e n u e · N i l e s , I L 6 0 7 1 4 - 1 3 9 3

YES. Please reserve the “American Pride Crystal Heart Pendant” for

me as described in this announcement.

*Plus $9.98 shipping and service. Please allow 4-6 weeks after initial payment for ship-ment of your pendant. Sales subject to prod-uct availability and order acceptance.

LIMITED-TIME OFFERReservations will be accepted on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis.

Respond as soon as possible to reserve your “American Pride Crystal Heart Pendant”.

Shown actual size

�

Signature

Mrs. Mr. Ms. Name (Please Print Clearly)

Address

City State Zip

E-mail (optional)

01-07795-001-E27943

jewelry

�������� ��������

the

www.bradfordexchange.com/7795

A Fine Jewelry Exclusive

12

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

on & oFF cAPIToL HILL

House Subcommittee examines vA disability Rating System

The House Veterans Affairs (VA)

Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and

Memorial Affairs recently held a hearing on

the VA disability rating system. The panel fo-

cused on the progress VA has made in imple-

menting recommendations by the President’s

Commission on Care for America’s Returning

Wounded Warriors in 2007, which is also

referred to as the Dole-Shalala Commission.

The claims backlog and confusion about

the rating system are the most common

complaints made by veterans about the VA,

which currently has a backlog of more than

886,000 claims, with 66 percent taking more

than 120 days to process. This figure is up

from 389,000 in 2009.

The Subcommittee questioned witnesses on

the differences between the Department of

Defense (DoD) and VA ratings systems, which

are often in direct conflict with one another

and cause confusion for many veterans. Panel

members called for DoD and VA to standard-

ize the ratings system to equalize physical

and mental injuries.

FRA believes there is strong bipartisan sup-

port to reform the system. Lawmakers have

made it clear they want to improve the an-

tiquated paper claims process, eliminate

bureaucratic delays and ensure more unifor-

mity between branches of the military and

the VA in determining disability ratings. The

Association will address these and other Title

38 issues before a joint hearing of the House

and Senate Veterans’ Committees during the

Second Session of the 112th Congress.

chairman wants Audit of vA graves

Rep. Jeff Miller (Fla.), chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, has called on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to complete an audit of its 131 cemeteries to ensure all veterans and their dependents are buried in the correct graves. In a statement released by Miller’s office, he said, “Although I am glad these mistakes have been found, this never should have happened in the first place.” The Committee is continuing to investigate this issue to ensure these problems do not arise ever again at veterans cemeteries.

more vgLI Available for Some veteransVeterans under age 60 that are currently covered under the Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI) program and have less than maximum coverage can now purchase additional cov-erage up to $400,000. Veterans can increase their coverage by $25,000 and can request the additional coverage during the 120-day period prior to each five-year anniversary date. The VGLI program allows newly discharged veterans to convert the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage they had while in the service. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has indicated that less than 22 percent of eligible veterans take advantage of this program.

For more information go to: http://insurance.va.gov/sglisite/vgli/vgli.htm

Programs Promote vet employmentPresident Obama is calling for a new conservation program designed to put veterans to work rebuilding roads, trails and other infrastructure on public property. Modeled after the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s, the program aims to employ Post-9/11 veterans, a group currently experiencing a 9.1-percent unemployment rate.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) established a website, vaforvets.va.gov, to assist veter-ans with employment opportunities. The website offers career-search tools for veterans seeking a career with the VA; career development guidance for veterans; and reintegration support for military service members. The website also has a Career Center to help veterans match their experience, skills and training with actual VA opportunities in real time.

In addition to other veteran-focused employment programs, the VA is also hosting regional ca-reer fairs and expos around the country. At a recent event in Washington, D.C., approximately 2,600 veterans participated in onsite interviews with public and private employers and more than 500 tentative job offers were extended. The next scheduled Veterans Career Fair and Expo is slated for June 25th–29th at Detroit’s Cobo Center.

Visit http://vaforvets.va.gov/Pages/default.aspx for more details.

veTeRAnS ISSueS

13

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

on & oFF cAPIToL HILL

cFPB to Track military ScammersThe Consumer Finance Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) new Office of Military Affairs (OMA) has initiated a first-of-its-kind database to track fraud aimed at active duty service mem-bers at home and overseas. The database known as ROAM (Repeat Offenders Against Military) will function as a central database and include all companies and individuals that repeatedly try to cheat military person-nel in financial transactions. ROAM will be accessible by all state attorneys general, U.S. attorneys and judge advocates from all five branches of the armed forces, which will help streamline investigations.

The creation of the OMA was an FRA-supported provision in the 2010 financial regulation law and is also authorized to edu-cate military personnel about their financial protections and best financial practices.

To contact the CFPB Office of Military Affairs go to www.consumerfinance.gov/servicemembers

Bill Introduced to Stop Automatic Budgets cuts in vA Health careFRA thanks Rep. Jeff Miller (Fla.), chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, for introducing the “Protect the VA Health Care Act” (H.R. 3895), a measure that seeks to exclude Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare programs from automatic seques-tration cuts due to take effect on January 1, 2013. The reductions are mandated by the Budget Control Act (BCA) and there is grow-ing concern the cuts may negatively impact VA health care programs. Miller dispatched a letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for clarification and, receiving no response, introduced the bill to explicitly exclude VA healthcare from the BCA.

FRA Honors outstanding uSmc, uSn PersonnelFor the 14th consecutive year FRA recognized top Marine Corps enlisted personnel during awards ceremonies at Quantico MCB, Va. FRA National President (NP) Jeffrey Gilmartin re-cently presented awards to top-performing Marines at the 2011 Combined Awards Program. Gen. James F. Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Michael P. Barrett participated in the annual ceremony that recognizes the Corps’ top recruiters, drill instructors (DI), Marine Corps embassy security guards (ESG), career retention specialists and combat instructors (CI). FRA hosted a reception following the ceremony.

At a separate ceremony John Davis, Director of Legislative Programs, represented NP Gilmartin by presenting special achievement awards to the Marine Corps Recruiting Command’s 2011 Staff Non-Commissioned Officers in Charge and Prior Service Recruiters Staff Non-Commissioned Officers in Charge in recognition of their outstanding service. BGEN Joseph L. Osterman, commanding general of Marine Corps Recruiting Command, and Sergeant Major Michael A. Logan participated in the event.

FRA also supported the Navy’s Recruiter of the Year (ROY) program this year, honoring the Navy’s top recruiters during their visit to the nation’s capital. In addition to hosting the ROYs for lunch on Capitol Hill and coordinating a U.S. Capitol tour, FRA participated in a special ceremony at the U.S. Navy Memorial. FRA NP Gilmartin, FRA Auxiliary President Gini Larson, National Executive Director Joe Barnes and other FRA and Auxiliary leaders joined VADM Scott R. Van Buskirk, Chief of Naval Personnel; RADM Earl L. Gay, Commander of Navy Recruiting Command, and Navy Recruiting Force Master Chief Earl S. Gray, Jr. in recognizing the Navy’s top 15 recruiters for 2011.

early Retirement Program Beginning January 1, 2012, the services are authorized to implement Temporary Early Retirement Authority (TERA). An FRA-supported provision (Section 504) in the Defense Authorization Act (NDAA, H.R. 1540) reinstates the TERA provision that will allow officers and noncommissioned officers to retire with at least 15 years of service and receive retired pay at a reduced rate. TERA was authorized from 1991 to 1996 in conjunction with force reductions during that period. In addition to retirement pay, the program includes TRICARE coverage and is not available for Coast Guard personnel because that service is not implementing involuntary separations.

As FRA Today goes to press, the DFAS website has not been updated to reflect this new change, but we’ll publish details in future editions of NewsBytes and FRA Today when they become available.

AcTIve duTy ISSueS

FRA’s National Executive Director Joe Barnes recognizes the Navy’s 2011 Recruiters of the Year during a ceremony at the U.S. Navy Memorial.

U.S

. Nav

y ph

oto

by M

ass

Com

mun

icat

ion

Spec

ialis

t 2n

d C

lass

Dav

id D

anal

s

the FRA Legislative team is Joe Barnes, National Executive Director; John Davis, Director of Legislative Programs; Bob Washington, health Care Advisor and outreach Manager; Chris Slawinski, National Veterans Service officer and Ed Dockery, Assistant Director of Legislative Programs.

14

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

FInAncIAL newS

Innovations for Personal SavingsBy Bob Wiedower, USMC Retired USAA Certified Financial Planner™

The Federal Government, to include the military, is actively engaged in cutting expenses and finding new ways to make their operations more efficient. So, now would be a good time to review our personal situations and see if there are ways we could curb expenses at home as well. Most of these tips are not so much in-novative as they are foundational.

1. cReATe A BudgeT And STIck To IT!Unlike the federal government, you can’t just print more money when you run out! The first question I ask people who are looking for ways to become more financially stable is to see their budget — and rarely do they have one. It’s simple math — you need to spend less than your income and without a budget you can’t accurately determine reality. The most financially successful individuals have budgets — they know exactly how much money they bring in each month and where it goes. Build a budget and track your spend-ing — you might be surprised at what you find. This act alone will probably help you determine where you can cut expenses.

2. cuT BAck on exTRASCancel services/premium items that you rarely or never use. Some ex-amples are caller ID, upgraded cable channels, unlimited phone plans, etc. Review your usage on these items and cancel the ones you don’t use often and don’t need. In some cases, you may be able to bundle services and reduce the overall expense. Check with your local company, but remember, differentiat-ing between what you need and what you want is critical.

3. Reduce InSuRAnce coSTSShop around for better insurance at a better premium. Make sure you’re comparing the same coverages, but if you find a policy that is less expensive with a reputable company, it doesn’t cost anything to switch. And if you’re

happy with the insurance you have, talk to your current provider for ways to reduce the overall cost — multi-policy and good driver discounts, paying for a whole year at once, etc. You should also look into increasing your deductible. This could save you a considerable amount, but make sure you’ve got money set aside to pay the deductible if you’re in an accident.

4. Reduce BAnkIng coSTSAgain, shop around for a bank that meets your needs at no or low cost. Find a bank that doesn’t charge fees for checking accounts, savings accounts, banking online, or ATM usage. Find a credit card that has a reasonable inter-est rate, an attractive rewards program that meets your needs and spending habits, and excellent customer ser-vice. Also, if you find a bank that pro-vides better products and services, it shouldn’t cost you anything to switch.

5. uSe cRedIT wISeLyFew people can pay cash for a car or a home, and credit is required in these circumstances. But this should be the exception and not the rule. If you rely on credit to get you through the month, then your expenses are higher than your income and it is unlikely you will ever get out of debt. Some ways that might help you stay out of debt and have a strong credit history are paying bills on time, searching for a credit card with a low interest rate, and paying off your credit card debt in full each month. It might take a while to be able to pay your balances off, but payment to principal is one step closer.

concLuSIonTypically, our financial situations are not created overnight so changing those situations won’t happen over-night either, but actions you take to-day could have profound effects on your future. By building a budget, tracking your expenses, and reduc-ing expenditures in areas that are not necessary, you will be in a much better financial position.

bob Wiedower serves as the Executive Director for uSAA’s Military Affinity Development in Phoenix. Bob joined uSAA after serving 22 years as an officer in the united States Marine Corps. he holds a master’s degree in business management from troy State university, and an undergraduate degree from the university of Southern California. he also holds the Certified Wealth Strategist®, Chartered Financial Consultant® and Chartered Life underwriter® designations.

As the mist clears, you press on towardthe mouth of the jungle. A vine–twisted

darkness lies ahead. But like the intrepidexplorers of old, who came to SouthAmerica in search of fortune and glory inthe form of precious green stones, youcan’t help yourself. You’ve heard tales of a scintillating 50 carat emerald...

Entering the green depths of the forest,you ask yourself, “Is it worth it?” But soonenough you realize it is. After followingyour guide past snakes and snares, youcatch a glimpse of the glorious green treasure... and then you wake up. It was alla dream. Except the emerald. That part wasreal. The gigantic stone can be yours in ourOval Emerald Pendant for only $129!

The largest emerald we’ve everoffered. Although emeralds of this sizeoften land in museums, we think some-thing so spectacular belongs around aneck--not under glass. The impressive 50-carat faceted stone is a natural emeraldcarefully enhanced by our jewelers to bringout its finest color. And its exquisite, sterlingsilver frame is ringed with meticulous filigree and beadwork which has beenhand worked in Bali, demonstrating onlythe most refined craftsmanship.

The stuff of legends. Here at Stauer, wewant legendary emeralds like this to be available and affordable. But we also wantour legend to live on. So, we’re going to giveyou 300 reasons to come back to Stauer.Receive $300 in Stauer Gift Coupons for FREE per order—$25 to use everymonth for 12 months, with NO MINIMUM PURCHASE REQUIRED... ever. Basically,we’re paying you to shop Stauer.

We’re so sure you’ll consider our OvalEmerald Pendant a masterpiece, we offer a30-day money back guarantee. If you’renot mesmerized by it’s beauty, return it fora full refund of the purchase price.Sometimes even our best customers aresurprised by our prices, but with our

client-friendly approach we’ve earned arare A+ Rating from the Better BusinessBureau, so you can wear this genuine 50-carat emerald with confidence. It’s timeto turn those green dreams into reality!

Oval Emerald Pendant(50 carats)—$249 $129Oval Emerald Ring(10 carats)—$195 $129Oval Emerald Earrings(15 ctw)—$195 $129Oval Emerald Set(Includes ring and earrings)

(25 ctw)—$390 $199 Save $191Bali Tulang Naga Chain—$99Call now to take advantage of this extremely limited offer.

1-888-201-7125Promotional Code OEP164-02Please mention this code when you call.

14101 Southcross Drive W., Dept. OEP164-02Burnsville, Minnesota 55337

JEWELRY SPECS:

- 50 carat genuine emerald pendant

- .925 sterling silver setting - Chain sold separately

Stauer has a Better Business Bureau Rating of A+

Smart Luxur ies—Surpr i s ing Pr ices

Stau

er.c

om

Own this genuine 50 carat emerald–the largest ever offered by Stauer–for ONLY $129.00!

Stauer®

50 carat genuineemerald enlarged

to show details.

Do You Dream in Green?

Add the striking 10 carat ringand 15 ctw earrings to

complete the set.

Emeralds are one of the most rare and valuableof gemstones. The emerald is well deserving of its placement among the “big four” whichincludes diamond, sapphire and ruby.

Mineral Class _______________________

Color ______________________________

Hardness ___________________________

Cut ___________ Birthstone _________

Refractive Index _____________________

The Rich Verdant Color of Spring

Get $300 in FreeStauer Gift

Coupons!See details left.

“Thanks Stauer for making melook like a hero to my wife!”

— STAUER CLIENT, Oklahoma City, OK

16

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

choosing/Training Branch Leadershipin thE organization of FRA’s branch-es there are many opportunities for members to participate in leadership roles. These roles can be either elected by membership vote or appointed by the President. In each instance there should be a plan to provide transition-al assistance and training information when necessary. Let’s take a look at the various leadership tools available for these members to be successful in managing their positions.

There are several offices for mem-bers to be elected to or appointed within the branch structure. Elections are held each year for the positions of President, Vice President (First and Second, which is optional), Secretary and Treasurer, which can be combined. There are also up to nine committee chairmen, who can be appointed by the President. The committees include Americanism Essay Contest, Americanism-Patriotism, Audit, Budget and Finance, Hospitals, Welfare and Rehabilitation, Legislative Service, Membership and Retention, Public Relations, Youth Activities, and Ad-Hoc. Depending upon the size of the branch membership, elected offices can be combined and fewer committee chairs appointed.

In order for these leaders to be aware of their duties and responsi-bilities it is important for each branch to maintain written guidelines in the branch constitution and bylaws. They can also refer to the Branch Administrative Manual for informa-tion. In addition, when new officers are elected or committee chairman are appointed, a smooth transition is recommended to the extent possible as it is favorable to keeping continuity in each position’s performance. Since these shipmates are volunteers who desire to maintain a positive and suc-cessful outlook for branch activities,

membership and community outreach it is important to seek those who are willing to lead and direct the branch in a positive direction to retain members, foster camaraderie, share the value of membership and promote FRA’s mis-sion and goals with each new or senior member.

There are many branches that main-tain continuity by electing shipmates to the same offices multiple times. Their knowledge and experience is helpful in keeping the branch focus on various activities and programs. In some in-stances, branches elect new shipmates each year to fulfill the requirements of the leadership roles and to obtain fresh ideas for revitalizing branch member-ship and activities. This seems to work well when new branches are estab-lished. These shipmates can offer a dif-ferent approach to maintaining branch programs and offer suggestions for de-veloping new ones.

Two senior shipmates suggested ways to keep members involved and leadership growing. It is important to “know the feelings of shipmates and see what they want,” says Bob

Rutherford, Secretary, Old Navy Home Branch 307, Gulfport, Miss. Shipmate Bob also recommended having different agendas for meet-ings such as guest speakers and spon-soring a branch project for member participation. Jim Marshall, Secretary of Wyoming Branch 59 in Cheyenne, suggests having new members inter-ested in the branch inner workings to serve on the Board of Directors to learn the structure of the branch. This is used as a training step to groom prospective branch officers.

Jack Fogel, newly elected Secretary of Branch 294 in Crossville, Tenn., would prefer to have received tran-sitional training after assuming the duties and responsibilities of branch secretary. Without this transitional assistance, Shipmate Jack decided to develop a check-off sheet to organize branch business prior to meetings to keep them on track.

It is important for each branch to develop, maintain and update their individual constitution and bylaws, which provides guidance to branch leaders and committee chairman. Also, an orientation or transitional program for officers at the branch lev-el will ensure continuity when passing the gavel to the next group of leaders.

Effective leadership is important to maintain a successful branch and Association. Let’s make sure FRA con-tinues to grow and develop through great leadership and active programs for member participation, which in turn strengthens our voice on Capitol Hill.

memBeRSHIP mATTeRS

Penny Collins

penny collins is FRA’s Director of Membership Development and a member of FRA Branch 24 in Annapolis, Md. She can be reached at penny@fra.org.

An orientation or

transitional program

for officers at the

branch level will ensure

continuity when passing

the gavel to the next

group of leaders.

Scientifi cally Engineered to Defy Gravity

EXCLUSIVE ONLINE OFFERTRY THEM FREE* – PAY IN 30 DAYSTake advantage of this exclusive offer at www.GravityDefyer.com/MM4CDC3 or by phone, dial (800) 429-0039 and mention the promotional code below. Promotional Code:*Offer not available in stores. Shipping & Handling not included.

This is my storyI used to be more active. I used to run, play basketball, tennis, football… I was more than a weekend warrior. I woke up every day fi lled with life! But now, in my late 30’s, I spend most of my day in the offi ce or sacked out in front of the TV. I rarely get to the gym – not that I don’t like working out, it’s the nagging pain in my knees and ankles. Low energy and laziness has

got me down. My energy has fi zzled and I’m embarrassed to admit that I’ve grown a spare

tire (I’m sure it’s hurting my love life). Nowadays I rarely walk. For some reason it’s just harder now. Gravity has done a job on me.

Wear them and you’ll knowThat’s what my doctor recommended. He said, “Gravity Defyer shoes are pain-relieving shoes.” He promised they would change my life–like they were a fountain of youth. “They ease the force of gravity, relieving stress on your heels, ankles, knees and back. They boost your energy by

propelling you forward.” The longer he talked, the more sense it made. He was even wearing a pair himself!

Excitement swept through my body like a drug I received my package from GravityDefyer.com and rushed to tear it open like a kid at Christmas. Inside I found the most amazing shoes I had ever seen – different than most running shoes. Sturdy construction. Cool colors. Nice lines… I was holding a miracle of technology. This was the real thing.

GDefy Benefi ts

Relieve painEase joint & spinal pressureReduce fatigue & tirednessBe more activeHave more energyAppear tallerJump higher, walk and run fasterHave instant comfortCool your feet & reduce foot odorElevate your performance

I put them on and all I could say was, “WOW!” In minutes I was out the door. I was invincible; tireless in my new Gravity Defyer shoes. It was as if my legs had been replaced with super-powered bionics. What

the doctor promised was all correct. No more knee pain. I started to

lose weight. At last, I was pain free and fi lled with energy! I was back in the game. Gravity had no power over me!

Nothing to lose: 30 Day Free Trial*So, my friend, get back on your feet like I did. Try Gravity Defyer for yourself. You have nothing to lose but your pain.

Tell us your story! Login at Gravitydefyer.com

and share your experience.

Customer SatisfactionSpeaks for Itself!

4 out of 5 customers purchase a 2nd pair within 3 months. ABSORB SHOCK

Eliminate pain from every step.

REBOUND PROPELS YOU FORWARD

Reduce fatigue. Be more active

A+ Ankle & foot pain

gone

Exercise20% longer

w/ nofatigue

4 out of 5

purchaseanother

pairwithin 3 months.

Most comfortableshoe ever

owned

Gravity DefyerCustomer Survey Results

$129.95MEN (Shown above)TB902MBL sizes 7 - 13Med/Wide and ExtraWide/XXWide WidthsWOMEN (Black on Black)TB902FBL sizes 5 - 11Med/Wide and ExtraWide/XXWide Widths

18

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

Db ACCT Aw+ + +InnovatIon Database InnovatIon account InnovatIon awarDs

innovatingsuccess4

19

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

XPO+InnovatIon expo

success

is a way of life for all the military services, partic-

ularly the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). The service’s

missions are diverse and there is a constant and

ever-evolving demand for Coast Guard assets.

In a climate of budgetary belt-tightening, it’s a

challenge to keep up.

“We get called upon to do things that weren’t

our responsibility yesterday,” says Commander

Hugh Griffiths, Innovation Program Manager for

the Coast Guard, citing the service’s significant

involvement with efforts such as the Deepwater

Horizon oil spill and its response to the earth-

quake in Haiti in 2010. “The call for the Coast

Guard to do more and still control spending isn’t

unique. The question is how to sustain the force

in a decremental budget climate? The answer,”

says Griffiths, “is innovation.”

Doing more with less

20

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

A Process for InnovationIn order to facilitate its innovative culture, the Coast Guard has established a network of Innovation Councils that play an active role in shepherding ideas from concept to deployment. The Innovation Program is administered by the Commandant’s Innovation Council (CIC) and augmented by the Atlantic Area and Pacific Area Innovation Councils (ICs) to ensure initiatives aren’t duplicating other projects already underway or violating any laws or regulations. Council members may be Coast Guard active duty and Reserve personnel, federal civilian employees and members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The ICs promote organizational excellence through four key program components, starting with the Innovation Database. Coast Guard members can submit an idea to the database, which serves as a collection point for submitted suggestions, and all are reviewed by the appropriate IC.

“The Innovation Database is like an electronic suggestion box,” explains Captain Joseph Re, chief of the Coast Guard’s Office of Strategic Analysis,

“but larger and more substantive. Some of the ideas are redundant, so we try to bring folks with similar ideas together, identify synergies and promote collaboration. Some ideas are simple, like printing on both sides of the paper to save money, while others are really groundbreaking solutions that address some 200-year-old problem. We see the whole range.”

Submissions to the database are made through the Coast Guard’s data network (CGOne), which means it’s only acces-sible from Coast Guard workstations or by CAC/RAS. This is a challenge for active duty members or Reservists who want to submit an idea from home, or Auxiliary members who don’t have access to the network.

“We’re in the process of developing a solution to this,” says Griffiths. “At a minimum, we’re looking to set up a parallel

system for those who don’t have access to the USCG system or some sort of log-in and password system to facilitate access. In the meantime, if someone has an idea, they can submit a general overview via e-mail to innovation@uscg.mil and we’ll follow up with them.”

Council representatives receive an e-mail when an idea is submitted and examine each idea to determine if and how it should move forward, engaging with the USCG program or division that would be responsible for deployment before making a decision on any given idea. “Sometimes an idea is 80-percent fleshed out, but still needs a bit more develop-ment. If the innovator doesn’t know the answers, we’ll try to partner him or her with others who can help,” adds Griffiths.

“On average, we get about 100 to 115 submissions per year,” he continues. “Nine out of 10 ideas don’t necessarily go anywhere. Sometimes they’re good ideas that just aren’t ready for implementation yet. Perhaps the technology isn’t quite there to support the idea or it needs more consider-ation. Either way, all are learning points for individuals and the service.”

The next component is the Innovation Account, which provides start-up or prototype funding for so-lutions the Councils deem worthy of development.

The ICs gauge an idea’s potential for platform- or program-wide impact and for solving an existing or projected challenge.

Since 2001, the Coast Guard has made a

purposeful effort to cultivate an environ-

ment that encourages its people to be

creative in solving operational challenges.

“We’ve worked to create the most condu-

cive environment for innovation. Our goal

is a risk-tolerant climate where our people

have permission to offer ideas that might

fail,” continues Griffiths. “Our goal is to

tap into the Coast Guard personnel who

use the equipment and processes, gauge

their frustrations and challenges, and

champion ideas that can address those

challenges.”

Coast Guard members and civilian personnel chat about the new MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter at the 11th Annual Coast Guard Innovation Exposition at the Tampa Convention Center, Fla., Oct. 25, 2011. The exposition creates a rich focused environment for Coast Guard innovators to resolve organizational challenges by showcasing their initiatives in a collaborative learning environment alongside other innovators throughout the Department of Homeland Security and across government, industry and academia.

U.S

. Coa

st G

uard

pho

to b

y Pe

tty

Offi

cer

3rd

Cla

ss T

ara

Mol

le.

Db

ACCT

®

When miners found silver inVirginia City in 1857, they knewthey’d struck the mother lode.

For the next twenty years, silver flowedfaster than water out of the Nevada desert.It was a Wild West bonanza. After years of frenzied mining, the vein began todry up and the town slowly died withit. It seemed like there was no more silver to be found in those hills.

Until I got a call from a Wild West friend.

He was sitting on a collection of silvercoins, minted just after silver was foundin Virginia City. With the silver market asstrong as it is, he decided that it was timeto sell off his collection. We had hit themother lode again.

A ‘few bags’ become thirty!To call my friend a coin collector is anunderstatement. When he said he had afew 1000-coin bags of silver coins I wasinterested. When those silver coins turnedout to be New Orleans Mint Morgan SilverDollars from the 1880’s I was intrigued.And when those few bags turned out to bethirty, I was astounded. My buddy wasn’tsitting on a collection, he had a hoard!

For a man who loves only the best things in life, I guess I shouldn’t have been so surprised.

One of the largest Silver Dollarhoards in decadesFor serious numismatists, hoards can come around once in a lifetime. Silverhoards are enormous collections of coinsthat have been stored away, often secretly,for safekeeping. With silver prices steadilyrising over the past few years, many silverhoards have been sold off.

Most assumed that hoards of MorganSilver Dollars were a thing of the past…until now.

Morgan Dollars are some of the most coveted coins on the market today. Andwith the hot silver market, most dealerscannot keep Morgan Dollars around forlong. Due to this heavy demand, especially

for the finest quality pieces, the price of many Morgan dollars has gone up dramatically in the last six months alone.But because of the sheer scale of this massive hoard, we have been able to keep the price at a pre-frenzy level.

120-year-old Silver Dollars for as little as $85! Each of these silver dollars from theMcClaren Collection Hoard (named for my friend’s beloved Mercedes SLR McLaren Supercar) are BrilliantUncirculated Morgan dollars that look as fresh as they did when they were struckby the U.S. Mint in New Orleans over 120years ago. The coins were submitted to the Professional Coin Grading Service(PCGS) for certification, grading andencapsulation. Once inspected, they were given a Choice Uncirculated grade for their superior quality.

My Wild West friend worked for 25 yearsto amass this huge collection. He scouredthe country looking for the finest MorganSilver Dollars. He did that work for you—and this hidden silver treasure is now within your reach. These coins are over100 years old—but they can now be yours for a little as $85!

These Morgan Dollars have beenextraordinary pieces of American

history for over 120 years. The remark-able McClaren Hoard has added anotherchapter to their amazing story. And nowyou can share in that history. We all wantthe finest things in life. It’s time to startyour collection today.

Order Today Risk FreeWhile they last, reserve your McClarenHoard New Orleans Morgan Silver DollarMS62 for only $99.00 + S&H. Each coinwill bear the New Orleans mintmark andbe dated 1883-1888 (dates our choice.)

You must be 100% satisfied with yourorder, or simply return it within 30 days by insured mail for a prompt refund of the purchase price.

McClaren Hoard New Orleans MorganChoice Uncirculated $99.00 plus s/h

Order more and SAVE!Half Banker Roll (10 coins)$95.00 ea. plus s/h SAVE $50Full Banker Roll (20 coins)$85.00 ea. plus s/h SAVE $280!

Toll-Free 24 hours a day1-888-201-7071

Offer Code MCH167-02Please mention this code when you call.

14101 Southcross Drive W.Dept. MCH167-02

Burnsville, Minnesota 55337

www.GovMint.com

Prices and availability subject to change without notice. Past performance is not a predictor of future performance. Note: GovMint.com is a private distributor of worldwide government coin issues and is not affiliated with the United States government. Facts and figures were deemed accurate as of December 2011. ©GovMint.com, 2012

American Entrepreneur Sells off Silver Fortune

Actual sizeis 38.1 mm

REVEALED: Massive Hoard Makes Silver Dollar History

22

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

“We might narrow the field to five great ideas, but only get funding for three. The remaining two might be viable downstream,” explains Griffiths. “An idea might move on for collaboration with others, might be championed by the IC or leadership, and it may or may not receive funding. It could also be picked up by a program and funding from their O&M [operations and management] funds.”

“Over the past 10 years, we’ve spent about $5 million, which equates to about $500,000 a year. That may seem like a lot,” says Griffiths, “but what’s the health and safety of a crewmember worth? If we can prevent injuries, for example, we not only have a healthier and happier workforce that can continue to contribute, we’ve also reduced VA healthcare costs downstream. If we can spend a smaller amount now to save more in the out years, it’s a good investment, particu-larly if it allows us to work more efficiently and accomplish our missions more effectively.”

To further promote an innovative climate, the Coast Guard recognizes the exemplary efforts of individuals or teams who create and implement

inventive solutions to USCG challenges. The Captain Niels P. Thomsen Innovation Awards are presented annu-ally in each of four categories: Science and Technology; Operations or Readiness; Administration, Training or Support; and the Commander Joel Magnussen Innovation Award for Management.

“The awards are based on merit and alignment with the Coast Guard’s strategic goals. The awards aren’t intended to be the end goal; rather recognition of innovation and col-laboration,” explains Re. “There has to be some demonstrated level of success that’s verified by a commanding officer or officer-in-charge.”

The Innovation Program is about collaboration, not competi-tion, adds Griffiths, who says the program is designed to promote team thinking and rewards the unit as a whole, not necessarily individuals. “There are no cash awards that might stifle collaboration and there’s no limit on the number of proj-ect team members who can walk across the stage to accept an award. For example, working collaboratively, the crews from USCGCs Juniper and Elm developed and implemented procedures for dockside cleaning and decontamination of internal seawater systems following their response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Normally a vessel has to be taken out of the water to be cleaned, but these folks came up with the idea of essentially using a degreaser truck, similar to those used at fast food restaurants. It allows the cleaning to take place dockside, saving both time and money. The crews from both cutters shared the bragging rights.”

Ideas can be submitted at any time, but the deadline for this year’s award consideration is March 31, 2012. The life cycle of an idea, from concept to award receipt, can be a two- or more year process, says Griffiths. “Most ideas spend at least a year or so in development and prototyping — sometimes with CIC assistance, sometimes with unit support, sometimes in a lonely garage. We love it when the units have a big part in supporting the initiative. It reflects that risk-tolerant envi-ronment we’re looking for. Innovation isn’t a quick process and ideas are usually more developed and more competitive for an award in their second year.”

Many ideas are shared at the Coast Guard Innovation Expo — the fourth component of the program — where the ideas are often enhanced.

The Innovation Expo is an annual event that creates a rich, focused environment for Coast Guard innovators to show-case their initiatives in a collaborative learning environment. Sponsored by the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), the open event features exhibits by USCG and private industry innovators that have an obvious Coast Guard focus.

“The first Innovation Expo was held in 2001 and it wasn’t much more than a middle-school science fair,” chuckles Re. “NDIA got involved in 2003, and it’s grown tremendously and become a great opportunity to facilitate conversations. We had more than 400 exhibitors at our 2011 Expo and we’re hoping to have even more when we meet in Virginia Beach this fall. The Expo is a fabulous opportunity for all exhibitors to get broad feedback from folks in the field who will be using the product or process, as well as from industry rep-resentatives who may partner with the service for the idea’s

John DeCastra, Victor Bruno, Justin Hunts and Kip Francis

represented award-winning Auxiliary University Programs at

the Coast Guard Innovation Expo. DeCastra is a Class of 2013

Auxiliarist from Auburn University, a unit that has focused heavily

on emergency response in the wake of last year’s heavy storms and

tornadoes; Bruno is a 2011 AUP graduate from California State

University Fullerton, now serving as the unit’s officer in charge

and an instructor; Hunts is an Auxiliarist from Virginia Tech, and

also a USCG Reserve SN serving with a Port Security Unit; Francis

is a graduate fellow whose research at the Stevens Institute of

Technology has produced a marine geographic information system

(GIS) modeling platform useful in both pollution modeling and

search and rescue.

Aw

XPO

U.S

. Coa

st G

uard

pho

to.

23

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

development. We also work to schedule other Coast Guard gatherings to coincide with the Expo to facilitate significant leadership involvement and create a synergy that is really beneficial to the innovation process.”

For example, when the Coast Guard first added emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRB) to its vessels, no USCG asset could track the signal directly. This concern was discussed at the Expo and came to the attention of a senior USCG leader in attendance, who helped get the project on the fast track. The service partnered with industry and got the system into USCG aircraft five years earlier than it would normally have happened. The initiative is credited with saving or assisting in saving 212 lives since 2006.

Saving LivesSometimes it’s the loss of life that prompts an innovative idea. A new safety restraint is currently being developed in response to the death of a small-boat gunner who was thrown from a USCG vessel.

“To prevent similar mishaps in the future, BM2 Cory Dillion from MSST Miami submitted a modified RB-S Bow and Stern Gunner restraint harness that would allow gunners to more safely operate their weapons during erratic, high-speed boat maneuvers.

The Innovation Program acted as an advocate for Dillon’s idea and funded the prototype development through NAVAIR, Patuxent River’s Naval Air System Command, Man Machine Interface Laboratory. They worked with BM2 Dillon, riggers and physiologists to modify and improve the design by add-ing shoulder straps and a single release mechanism so the gunner can escape quickly if the boat capsizes. They’re also working on modifications so that law enforcement gear can be worn with it and/or it can be worn over exposure suits in colder weather conditions. It’s an evolutionary process that will undoubtedly improve our gunners’ safety.”

Grassroots InnovationOne award-winning idea demonstrates the impact and reach of a single idea. DC3 David Scribellito was frustrated by the lack of organization in the damage control kits he periodically inventoried to ensure the necessary items were readily avail-able in the event of a leak aboard his cutter.

“Traditionally, damage control kits include gaskets, plugs, line, and a hodgepodge of tools and equipment you’d need to fix a leak in a vessel,” explains Griffiths, “which were usually stored in a duffle bag and stowed in the damage control locker. In order to inventory the kit or, more importantly, use the items in the event of an emergency, you had to pretty much dump the whole thing on the deck to find what you

wanted. It’s not uncommon for a vessel to lose power in an emergency situation, so you can imagine the challenges associated with this design … water’s pouring in and you’re pawing around in the dark, trying to find the items you need to solve the problem.”

Scribellito thought there had to be a better way and in 2008 won an Innovation Award for the Custom Damage Control Backpack he designed. It’s similar to a travel toiletry kit with individual storage space for specific items, that can be unrolled and hung on the back of a door. He developed his own prototype, adding backpack straps so it can be easily carried through hatches and down passageways. His Area Innovation Council partnered with Naval Engineering to move the project forward and now this backpack is a stock item with enterprise-wide implications.

“It’s important to note that the innovator’s idea doesn’t get to the ‘ready for prime time’ market by itself. The process of establishing production requirements further improved on Scribellito’s design, which is a fundamental and important part of the Innovation Program,” adds Griffiths.

Empowered by his success, Scribellito is a repeat innovator. Now an MK2, he submitted an idea for an integrated heating blanket that will save time and money for crews that operate small boats in colder climates. The blanket, currently being prototyped at Station Rockland, Maine, will keep engines warm and eliminate the need for crewmembers to run them intermittently during periods of non-use. This saves fuel and money, and also allows crewmembers to use their time more productively.

Other SuccessesThe Damage Control Backpack is just one of many innova-tion success stories the Coast Guard has enjoyed in recent years. Initiatives employed at Sector Field Office (SFO) Southwest Harbor, Maine, in 2010 are helping promote the Commandant’s “Green Coast Guard” vision and save natural

Petty Officer 3rd Class David L. Scribellito stands next to his award-winning innovation at the Coast Guard Innovation Expo. Scribellito designed a way to package the ship’s plugging and patching kit so it is logical and easy to use, carry, hang and store.

U.S

. Coa

st G

uard

pho

to b

y PA

2 A

ndre

w K

endr

ick.

The WOW! Computer is Designed for Seniors™ so it’s simple and easyto use. All you do is plug it in, and you can enjoy all the Internet hasto offer, from entertainment and information to games and puzzles.You get your very own email address so you can send and receivenotes, photos, jokes… safely and securely. The display and keyboardare oversized, the navigation is simple and easy and you never haveto worry about crashing, losing data or spam. Call today and find outmore. 1-877-789-0795. Please mention Promotional Code 43767.

Thanks to its revolutionary design, the Talking Atomic Watch gives you accuracy to within a billionth of a second. The watch receives a signal from the U.S. AtomicClock, the standard for time keeping worldwide. Plus, all you have to do is push a button, and the watch will “tell” you the time in a clear, easy-to-understand voice. It will even tell you the day and date. Travelling? Touch a button to switch it to any time zone. It’s lightweight and attractive… and it’s always accurate. Call today. 1-888-881-0392. Please mention Promotional Code 43770.

What would you do in an emergency if you could not get to the phone. No one likes to think about it, but falls, fires, accidentsand medical emergencies happen every day. Now, thanks to the Medical Alarm, all you have to do is touch a button on the wireless pendant and you’ll immediately be connected to a state-of-the-artemergency response center that can notify 911, your neighbors and your family. With this lifesaving product, you’ll never haveto worry about being alone in an emergency. It’s extremely affordable, with no set-up, activation or equipment fees. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call today. 1-888-704-5368. Please mention Promotional Code 43769.

The computer that’s designed for you… not your grandchildren.

No

Contra

ct

The wristwatch you neverhave to set… or even see.

“Ten-ten AM, Thursday,

March 8th, 2012”

Over the years, cell phones have gotten smaller and more complicated. The buttons are too small to find, the speakers are too soft to hear and I need my reading glasses just

to see the display. That’s all changed, thanks to Jitterbug. It comes ready to use rightout of the box, with your favorite numbers already programmed. It has large, brightnumbers on a big display and features a soft ear cushion and louder volume controls so it’s easy to hear. Best of all, it features affordable rate plans that fit your needs and there’s no contract to sign. Call now and see why hundreds ofthousands of people are catching the Jitterbug craze. Call today. 1-877-624-4138.Please mention Promotional Code 43768.

Finally, a cell phone that’s… a phone. Call nowand receive aFREE gift

just for ordering. Hurry…this is

a limited timeoffer. Call now!

BEST-SELLING PRODUCTS

“Good morning. This is Nancy with Medical Alarm.

Do you need assistance Mrs. Smith?”

The alarm that can save yourlife with the touch of a button.

f o r S e n i o r s i n 2 0 1 2

Copyright © 2012 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

25

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

and financial resources. Renovations to the station’s housing included installation of solar panels (to generate heat and recharge batteries), pellet stoves (to heat the houses and generate hot water) and, later, wind power experiments that led to use of larger wind turbines to generate electrical power — initiatives that have been replicated at other units.

“They’ve also developed a very accurate monitoring sys-tem that allows the crew to pinpoint when energy is being wasted; down to knowing when a light is left on in an unused office,” explains Griffiths. “Another benefit is that schools are bringing students to tour the facility, fostering a familiarity with the Coast Guard and promoting green thought through-out the community.”

Another innovation success takes the green concept of recy-cling to a whole new level. The loss of an MH-60T helicopter created serious challenges for the Coast Guard. Replacement options from the fleet were limited and the original produc-tion line for the airframe had long since been retooled. A new chopper would cost $27 million and come with a significantly different structural configuration than the rest of the Coast Guard fleet, which would complicate repairs and regularly required maintenance.

“If all your aircraft are the same,” explained Griffiths, “you don’t have to maintain such a large inventory of parts, and your pilots and maintenance personnel can do their jobs anywhere in the Coast Guard. Conversely, if there isn’t consistency, it creates the need for specialized skill sets and equipment to fly and maintain each type of aircraft.”

CWO Monty Everson at the USCG Air Logistic Center (ALC) located a Navy SH-60F helicopter hull and tail, as well as two tail pylons, and negotiated a no-cost transfer from the Navy. The Coast Guard partnered with helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky to modify the donated Navy asset into an MH-60T, at a cost savings of about $12 million. The resulting capabil-ity now allows the Coast Guard to secure additional MH-60T aircraft from airframes the Navy was going to discard.

Low-Tech to High-TechInnovation can apply to a product or a process and can include highly technical solutions, as well as those that pack a punch without a lot of techno-flash.

LTJG (now LT) Ryan Kowalske, executive officer of the 110-foot USCGC Grand Isle in the Coast Guard’s First District, identified the need for a mobile, cost-efficient and secure communica-tion network. In response, USCG personnel partnered with Sector Boston, Commander Coast Guard District One and the Air Force Electronic Systems Center Research Lab to develop an inexpensive solution that fit the bill. The result is a low-cost mesh network (MANET) that provides encryption capabilities and the ability to relay data between multiple nodes.

“It’s a self-healing wireless network that is almost infinitely expandable,” explains Griffiths. “It allows for the transmission of voice, video, data, e-mail and other electronic communica-tion in real time over the network, at multiple frequencies, at no cost. This is a real game-changer, particularly in situations when more traditional communication infrastructure is gone, such as in the aftermath of hurricanes and earthquakes. Experiments are ongoing with a separate system that will allow cutter skippers to take any radio signal and migrate it to any other radio, phone, or other form of transmitter. It’s an inexpensive solution with tremendous flexibility.”

A less technical, but equally productive, initiative is the Coast Guard Auxiliary University Program. A key component of Team Coast Guard, the USCG Auxiliary is facing a generation gap. The average age of current Auxiliarists was increasing and this new initiative is helping to close that gap by recruit-ing college students into the Auxiliary, providing leadership and seamanship training, and indoctrinating them into the Coast Guard culture. Run by volunteer Auxiliary members, this highly successful program is underway at six colleges across the country.

“It’s sort of amazing how successful this program is,” says Re. “We’re essentially competing with DoD ROTC programs, and even though our students have to buy their own equipment and receive no stipend, participation in the program is grow-ing. Of those who participate, about 75 percent stay involved with the Coast Guard in some way, either as a member of the Auxiliary, a Reservist or by becoming an officer. We’ve come to think of it as our own ROTC program.”

Leveraging Workforce PotentialThe Coast Guard’s Innovation Program is generating a variety of ideas that benefit the service and other government and private entities. CAPT Re and CDR Griffiths credit the active involvement of Coast Guard leaders for nurturing a culture where innovative thinking and risk-taking are encouraged.

“Our service has really benefited from strong leadership support that empowers innovators,” says Griffiths. “The Innovation Program allows us to leverage the creative potential of our talented workforce to save time, resources and lives. Innovation is allowing us to find new ways to more effectively fulfill our mission of ensuring the safety, security and stewardship of our nation’s waters, through capability, capacity and competencies.”

lauren armstrong is the Contributing Editor and Member of the FRA Auxiliary. She can be reached at lauren@fra.org.

IN GOD W

E TR

US

T

Coins enlarged to show detail.Prices subject to change due to fl uctuations in gold market. Prices will remain at dealer cost.

FINAL RELEASEI f you had $25,000 in gold in 2001 at $290 per oz you would have over $100,000 at today’s gold prices. Numerous experts are now predicting gold at $5,000 an ounce; your $25,000 could be worth $125,000 in the near future. This at cost offer for American citizens may be your fi nal opportunity to own government gold free of dealer mark up. Due to extremely limited supplies we must adhere to a strict limit of ten coins per household. Nationwide Coin and Bullion Reserve has set these beautiful U.S. Government gold coins for immediate public release and cannot guarantee suffi cient inventory to supply current demand. This at cost public offer will sell out immediately. Overage orders may be cancelled and your checks returned uncashed. Ordering now may be your last chance to own these magnifi cent government issued gold coins at this level. Order now to avoid disappointment. CALL TOLL FREE 877-817-1220

NATIONWIDE COIN & BULLION RESERVE announces the fi nal release of 2,500 congressionally authorized, fully backed by the U.S. Government, completely free of dealer mark up, $5 Gold American Eagles at the incredible price of only $171.00 each.

SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDERS OVER $25,000

CHECK KEY CODE: FRA-120306MINIMUM ORDER 5 COINS

1.877.817.1220

AT COST OFFER

27

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

Ae/Aoe Sailors AssociationSeptember 26–30, 2012, Baltimore, Md. contact harold Dean Lamb, 9342 Wallingford Dr., Twinsburg, Oh 44087, (330) 425 0760, hdeanlamb@roadrummer.com.

diesel Fast Attack Submarines Association (Tang class Boats)September 2–9, 2012, Norfolk, Va. contact Dan craw, 8607 46th avenue cir. W., Bradenton, FL 34210-2447, (941) 761-2234, dcraw1@tampabay.rr.com.

FRA Tennessee caucus Branch 110March 16–19, 2012, Nashville, Tenn. contact Joe Dentici, 1512 Paris ave., Nashville TN 37212, (615) 319-2726, fra110@comcast.net.

nAS Atlanta (chamblee/marietta)May 21–23, 2012, Dillard, Ga. contact Wayne Barron, 12 Edgehill Place, Jasper, Ga 30143, (770) 737-2719, barronfra@yahoo.com.

nAS Sanford FL and all Squadrons 1942-1968June 21–24, 2012, Sanford, Fla. contact Jerry Bohm, 450 river Drive, DeBary, FL, (386) 668-4851, dlfrsf@aol.com.

nAS Twin citiesaugust 25, 2012, Minneapolis Minn. contact Jack Iverson, 4928 142nd Path, apple Valley MN, (952) 322-1249, thetarjei@charter.net.

naval Academy Prep School (nAPS) class of 1967October 12–14, 2012, Bainbridge, Md. contact Bob capra, 1202 river Bay road, annapolis, MD 21409, (410) 757-2028, bobcapra@verizon.net.

u.S. navy Postal clerks Assoc.May 6–10, 2012, Branson, Mo. contact Michael Dwyer, 3414 Miller Point court, Navarre, FL 32566, (850) 939-9184, Mytreehouse99@bellsouth.net.

uSS dixie (Ad-14)September 27–30, 2012, New Orleans, La. contact J.T. Smith or J.P. robillard, 107 Brookhaven court, Gallatin, TN 37066-5601, (615) 513-2440/(504) 289-2837, jts912@at.net/erobill225@aol.com.

uSS Agerholm (dd-826)September 20–23, 2012, Portland, Maine. contact arthur hronich, 23 Greenleaf Dr., clifton Park, NY 12065, (518) 373-8363, arturohr@msn.com.

uSS Albany (cA-123, cg-10, SSn-753)October 14–19, 2012, Baton rouge, La. contact Bob Smeltzer, 6511 Kenwood ave., rosedale, MD 21237, (410) 574-1720, president@ussalbany.org.

uSS Aylwin (de/FF-1081)September 20–23, 2012, New Orleans, La. contact Glenn hunsburger, 212 Webb Street, hertford, Nc 27944 www.ussaylwin.com.

uSS Bataan (cvL-29/LHd-5) AssociationMay 16–19, 2012, Portland, Maine. contact clarence L. Decker, 6818 Finch Place, Philadelphia, Pa 19142, (215) 365-5873.

uSS Beale (dd/dde-471)august 16–19, 2012, rocky hill, conn. contact Jim Svejk, P.O. Box 426, Stafford Springs, cT 06076, (860) 481-2999, ussbealereunion2012@yahoo.com.

uSS Begor APd-127October 3–7, 2012, San Diego, calif. contact rich Pardy, 315 W. Evans creek rd. Unit 50, rogue river, Or 97537, (541) 582-1761, rogriv@q.com.

uSS Bexar (APA/LPA-237)September 20–23, 2012, Branson Mo. contact Steve Malloy, 1542 10th St., Bremerton, Wa 98337, (360) 373-1093, ussbexar@comcast.net.

uSS caiman (SS-323)May 7–10, 2012, San antonio, Texas. contact Douglas W. Smith, 3835 B Maple ave., Bremerton, Wa 98310, (360) 377-4763, dbrider@comcast.net.

uSS canberra (cA-70/cAg-2) All Hands (1943-1970)October 10–14, 2012, Warwick, r.I. contact Ken Minick, PO Box 130, Belpre, Oh 45714, (740) 423-8976, usscanberra@gmail.com.

uSS charles R. ware (dd-865)September 12–16, 2012, Pittsburgh, Pa. contact Donald Parker, 1215 Tennessee ave., Pittsburgh, Pa 15216-2511, (412) 561-7522, munkb@msn.com.

uSS chicago (cA-29, cA-136, cg-11, SSn-721)September 5–9, 2012, St. Louis, Mo. contact Jon Dahl, 6141 McPherson ave., St. Louis, MO 63112, (314) 863-4821, jon@carriagehouseshop.com.

uSS damato (dd-871)September 16–20, 2012, columbus, Ga. contact Stephen Scott, (706) 315-9117, stephen.scott@mchsi.com.

uSS Finch (de-328/wde-428/deR-328)September 12–16, 2012, Branson, Mo. contact robert cragg, (847) 658-2676, rgcragg@yahoo.com.

uSS guadalupe (Ao-32)September 21–23, 2012, St. Louis, Mo. contact Gary Watts, 203 E. Second St, White, SD 57276, (605) 629-3621, garyw@itctel.com.

uSS Halsey Powell (dd-686)September 19–23, 2012, harrisburg, Pa. contact James Wyatt, 344 E. 600 South, river heights, UT 84321, (435) 752-2026.

uSS Hanson (dd/ddR-832)august 20–23, 2012, Portland, Ore. contact roy ridderbusch, 3910 Maple road, Lynnwood, Wa 98037, (425) 742-6591, rrridder@msn.com.

uSS Hyman (dd-732)September 9–16, 2012, Branson, Mo. contact ralph Beck, 2651 Michael Place, #105, Dunedin, FL 34698, (727) 504-5225, ptgeezr@yahoo.com.

uSS James k. Polk (SSBn/SSn-645) All crewsOctober 11–14, 2012, South Plainfield, N.J. contact Gino Bovino, reunion2012@ussjameskpolk.com.

uSS kearsarge (cvS-33)april 22–26, 2012, Pensacola, Fla. contact Edward Mckee, (307) 632-0743, lomck3@aol.com.

uSS La Salle (LPd/AgF-3) AssociationSeptember 4–9, 2012, rapid city, S.D. contact arnet hagen, (360) 387-7710, einer2@juno.com.

ReunIonS

continued on page 28

28

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

LookIng FoR…

Members can post reunions online at www.fra.org, submit to reunions@fra.org or mail to: FRA Reunions, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314.

these notices are published on a space available basis. Notices must be submitted in writing. E-mail fratoday@fra.org or mail your request to: FRA, Looking for…, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA, 22314.

PnI dennis Schrock he was attached to Va-66 during Vietnam cruise in 1968. Please call Gerald Smith at 813-713-7765 or send email to shirereef@yahoo.com.

Former members of vP-68/nARcen/nARdeT and other reserve units attached to them, to become a member of VP-68 alumni assn. contact capt Dick Perkins at vp68co@gmail.com.

mmc m. J. michael he was a Boot camp company commander in 1965. Please contact TBellongerconst@aol.com.

Phil keanehe was a BMc in the mid-1970s, stationed with McB-62 in Gulfport, Miss. I was a BM1 stationed under him and retired as a BMcS in 1987 from Norfolk, Va. I’d like to hear from him or anyone who knows his whereabouts. Please contact henry Winston at PPWinston@cox.net.

SSgt James nicholson, uSmcLast known duty station was Fort Meade, Md., in 1969-1970. Please contact Marlene albee at jawmar@aol.com.

uSS mansfield (dd-728)august 22–25, 2012, Nashville, Tenn. contact roy compton, (615) 746-4613, jwausn5888@hotmail.com.

uSS mitscher (dL-2/ddg-35)September 10–13, 2012, Galveston, Texas. contact Bob Lange, 1835 Norfolk road, Glen Burnie, MD 21061, (410) 768-0751, mitscherdl2@cablespeed.com.

uSS o’callahan (dd/FF-1051)august 22–26, 2012, San Diego, calif. contact Jay Vennebush, 1071 Torrey Pines rd., chula Vista, ca 91915, (619) 370-0695, jjvennebush@cox.net.

uSS Power (dd-839)June 27–July 01, 2012, chicago, Ill. contact John Pinto, (352) 527-2352, jpinto839@gmail.com.

uSS Providence (cL-82, cLg-6, SSn-719)May 2–6, 2012, Washington, D.c. contact Jim chryst, 34 Snyder hollow rd., New Providence, Pa 17560, (717) 284-6996.

uSS Pyro (Ae-1/Ae-24)May 16–20, 2012, Baton rouge, La. contact Jared cameron, (703) 587-3658, scuttlebutt@ae-24.org.

uSS Reeves (dLg/cg-24)October 4–8, 2012, charleston, S.c. contact Michael robertson, 15709 N Sycamore St., Mead, Wa 99021, (509) 315-8107, michael.d.robertson@comcast.net.

uSS Remora (SS-487)September 4–8, 2012, Norfolk, Va. contact John Leeds, Jr., 2156 Main road, Tiverton, rI 02878, (401) 743-0985, jml0817@hotmail.com.

uSS Saint Paul (cA-73)august 7–11, 2012, Indianapolis, Ind. contact hank Koehler, (520) 398-1240, hksaintpaul@gmail.com.

uSS San Pablo (AvP/AgS-30)May 3–6, 2012, Buffalo, N.Y. contact Stuart Norris, (858) 223-2713.

uSS Solace (AH-5) - wwIIOctober 3–5, 2012, San antonio, Texas. contact Dr. chuck Jones, 105 Medical Plaza, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482, (903) 243-3713.

uSS Sphinx (ARL-24) All crewsSeptember 10–13, 2012, Branson, Mo. contact Frank Ironi, 954 Lilac Dr., Sauk centre, MN 56378-1643, (320) 352-3271, fironi@mainstreetcom.com.

uSS Truckee (Ao-147)September 20–23, 2012, Portland, Maine. contact Mike Landers, 1426 Towne Lake Pkwy Ste. 102-610, Woodstock, Ga 30189-8260, (770) 356-1727, mlanders52@yahoo.com.

uSS voge (de/FF-1047)October 12–14, 2012, Jacksonville, Fla. contact Tom anderson, 3301-r coors Blvd. NW #266, albuquerque, NM 87120, (501) 259-1369, swobubba@aol.com.

uSS walton (de-361)October 10–14, 2012, Washington, D.c. contact Jerry or Mary hudson, (573) 291-1922, marjer67@ktis.net.

uSS washoe county (LST-1165)august 29–September 02, 2012, Seattle, Wash. contact Dennis Steenbergen, (303) 470-1187, dsteenbergen1165@gmail.com.

uSS west Point (AP-23)October 1–5, 2012, charleston, S.c. contact Ed Barton, 105 Schooner Bend ave., Summerville, Sc 29483, (843) 482-0814, gebarton@homesc.com.

vP-68/nARdeT/nARcen and AFFILIATed unITSapril 14, 2012, NaS Patuxent river Md. contact George (Doc) Durity, 108 reeves Street, Walterboro, Sc 29488, (843) 538-1122, gdurity1492@yahoo.com.

vP40October 3–7, 2012, San Diego, calif. contact Guy Fisk, 107 Springside road, asheville, Nc 28803, (828) 654-7812, ggfisk@vp40.com.

world war II navy Aviation Repair and overhaul unitsSeptember 16–19, 2012, rock Island, Ill. contact roger Fox, 110 E. North Street, P.O. Box 280, Wyanet, IL 61379, (815) 699-2405, thefoxesden@comcast.net.

REUNIONS continued from page 27

Name

Address

City/State/Zip

Daytime Telephone No. ( )

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

The Centennial ANNIVERSARY Tribute Pistol

America Remembers®

10226 Timber Ridge Drive, Ashland, Virginia 23005www.americaremembers.com

To place your reservation toll-free call 1-800-682-2291

� � � � �

� � � � �

“The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten.” ~ Calvin Coolidge

*All orders are subject to acceptance and credit verification prior to shipment. Shippingand handling will be added to each order. Virginia residents please add 5% sales tax.

Display Case AvailableAn optional luxuriously lined, custom-built, wooden display

case is available for purchase.

©AHL, Inc.

Left side features banners that read, “CentennialAnniversary” and “Honoring Military Service To America.”At the center of the artwork is a medallion featuring thefamiliar profile of the Colt 1911 pistol, encircled by thelegend “100 Years Defending Freedom.” Bookmarking themedallion are the years “1911”–“2011” – in honor of acentury of distinguished service.

Please enter my reservation for the “Colt® Centennial AnniversaryTribute Pistol,” selected below. Each is a working Colt .45 pistol, at theintroductory issue price of $1,995.* My deposit of $195 per Tribute isenclosed. I wish to pay the balance at the rate of $100 per month, nointerest or carrying charges. Certificate of Authenticity included. Thirty-day return privilege.Service Branch Honored:� U.S. Army � U.S. Air Force � U.S. Marine Corps � U.S. Navy � Patriotic

� Check enclosed for $______________ .� Charge payment of $ ______________ to:

� VISA � MasterCard � AMEX � Discover

No. Exp.

Display Case� I wish to reserve the optional, luxuriously lined, custom-made display

case with locking glass lid. My payment of $149* is enclosed or add to credit card.

Right side commemorates the featured U.S. military service branch (U.S. Navy Tribute shown), with elegant, flowing banners andclusters of stars decorated in richly-plated 24-karat gold. Each pistol in the edition will showcase the name of the service branchhonored, its motto and the date it was founded. (Army, USMC, Air Force also available.)

COLT, , and RAMPANTCOLT are registered trademarks of New Colt Holding Corp. and are used by America Remembers under license. All rights reserved.

During the last century of military warfare, America’s Armed Forces have triumphed over incredible odds inconflicts across the globe. During this time, one firearm comes to mind that best embodies the spirit of all those whoserved in the 20th century. It’s the classic Colt M1911A1 .45 pistol. No firearm in history can boast a more impressiverecord of American military service than the Colt Model 1911. The .45 caliber pistol served as the official sidearm forour country's Armed Forces from 1911 to 1985, longer than any other small military arm in the world.

Now, on the 100th Anniversary of the Colt Model 1911 pistol, Colt and America Remembers are proud to issueOfficial Colt Collectibles honoring the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force – each separateedition is issued in a strictly limited edition of 500 pistols per service branch. In addition, there is a 100th Anniversaryedition of 500 Patriotic Colt .45 Pistols, featuring an American Eagle and the phrase “Land of the Free, Home of theBrave.” Craftsmen specifically commissioned by America Remembers decorate each Tribute in stunning 24-karat goldartwork over a blue steel canvas. In every phase of its conception, design and execution, and in every detail of its finish,we have held fast to the goal of creating a powerful, museum-quality tribute to history's greatest military sidearm.

Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps Available NowFor the veterans of America’s Armed Forces who carried a Colt .45 pistol, the classic military sidearm has special

significance. It was a constant companion that offered superior stopping power against all enemies. To put it simply,the Colt .45 pistol was a lifesaver. The Colt was utterly reliable, virtually indestructible and awesome in its stoppingpower. In the hands of courageous American warriors, it would become a military and firearms legend. For decades,wherever Americans fought for freedom, the Colt .45 was there. Those who pulled the trigger will never forget, andneither should we.

reserve nowReservations will be accepted in the order they are received. You can mail us your order, or to prioritize your order

and confirm availability, call us toll-free at 1-800-682-2291. We will arrange delivery through the licensed firearmsdealer of your choice. And, as always, if you are not completely satisfied, you may return your Tribute to us in original,unfired condition within 30 days for a complete and courteous refund.

The Colt name is legendary for firearm enthusiasts, as well as for military veterans and their families. Thisexclusive Tribute stands as a monumental salute to all who served our country and carried the iconic pistol in defenseof freedom. As a nation we must never forget the courage and sacrifice of those who served and continue to servetoday. Secure your Colt® Centennial Anniversary Military Tribute Pistol today and keep it forever as the ultimatesymbol of fine firearms craftsmanship, American military history and service in defense of freedom.

30

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

TAPS In Memoriam

nAme BRAncH nAme BRAncH

nAme BRAncH

adams, Wilson M, BMc, USN 126Albright, Richard A, CPO, USN 168alender, Franklin r, GYSGT, USMc MaLalkire, French L, cPO, USN MaLanderson, Earl, BM1, USN MaLarmstrong, carlton c, SKcM, USN 175

Bagwell, charles E, aDJc, USN 089Banks, Willie I, PNc, USN MaLBest, Philip E, hTcS, USN 021Blake, Ernest h, hMc, USN 106Boyd, Lee S, aD1, USN 018Branch, Paul J, MMc, USN 061Brazee, charles N, EN1, USN 020Brinkley, Franklin h, SKc, USN 161

campbell, William T, Icc, USN MaLcapone, Joseph a, aDc, USN 309carpenter, claude, rOM, USN 282chambers, George E, EM1, USN MaLchapman, robert r, aDr1, USN 261chrisman, Leroy F, SSGT, USMc MaLclassen, Donald c, LcDr, USN 276cochran, James r, acc, USN 146colavechio, richard F, hMcS, USN 308conger, Lonnie a, aFcM, USN 242cramer, Jack r, acc, USN 170cuellar, Joseph, rMc, USN 290culp, alvin J, POcS, USN MaLcumm, robert W, BMc, USN 168

Davidson, harry L, MM1, USN 161Davis, cecil L, aO1, USN 234Davis, horace W., cDr, USN MaLDawson, ron, rMc, USN MaLDinges, Leonard r, BM1, USN 061Douponce, richard D, aDJc, USN MaL

Earwaker, John S, cDr, USN 246Edwards, Gerald N, aGcS, USN 124Eveland, allen B., hT2, USN MaLEwers, Karl K, GMGc, USN 249

Feddock, Lawrence, MMcM, USN 070Finnern, Julius A, MMC, USN 014Fleming, roger amie 132Forbus, argus h, MSGT, USMc 192Fulke, richard L, SK1, USN 060

Ganz, albert c, PO1, USN MaLGarcia, Enrique, rMc, USN MaLGash, Frank R, MMC, USN 202George, huey a, rMcM, USN MaLGifford, Larry G, cTrc, USN 316Godwin, robert r, FTcM, USN 168Greenawalt, Walter E, PO1, USN MaLGreene, James P, GMc, USN 015Greenfield, Milton, ENc, USN 214

hagewood, Jerry L, MMcM, USN 299harris, George c, LT, USN MaLharris, Peter S, cWO, UScG 344

hildreth, Ernest S, MNcM, USN MaLhoenigke, charles L, TMc, USN MaLholland, charles E, hM1, USN MaLhorrell, herbert W, hMc, USN 182hoskins, Elvin, ScPO, USN 089huggins, charles E, accS, USN 018hyland, Don F, ETcM, USN 269

Ickes, Kendall Sholes, aWcM, USN 086Ingalls, Billy E, aBEc, USN 046

Janas, Edward J, ScPO, USN 313Johnson, Brodie J, aDrc, USN MaLJohnson, Gerald r, MSGT 269Johnson, Warren W, PNcM, USN MaLJohnson, William, rMc, USN 006

Kahn, James E, aDc, USN MaLKeeter, Marvin M, YNcS(SS), USN MaLKincher, h. D., SKcS, USN 115Kinnear, David c, EMcM(SW), USN 024Kinsman, John a, FTc, USN 029 Kirksey, Elvis c, PO1, USN MaLKnox, harold G, STGcS, USN 022Kochsmeier, ralph W, ETc, USN 161Kollar, Kalman D, rM1, USN MaLKolstad, John E, ScMr, USN 026Kopczyk, Frank E, ShcS, USN 017Kostyk, Joseph D, LcPL, USMc 292

Lacey, Louis, cWO4, USN MaLLane, Forrest J, aDJc, USN MaLLaws, William S, 1SGT, USMc 119Leonard, robert G, aDcS, USN MaLLimerick, William, ENc MaLLindbloom, Leroy S, FTcS, USN 008Lowe, Thomas D, SKc, USN 365Lozier, Leopold, AEC, USN 089

Machacek, George T, Pcc, USN 361Macpherson, ronald a, ENcM, USN 162Malseed, John Edward, aTcS 091Martinez, camilo a, aGcS, USN MaLMcateer, M c, aFcM, USN 210McBee, harvey L, MMc, USN 050Mccombs, James W, Phc, USN 263McGuigan, richard J, GYSGT, USMc MaLMcKinnie, Martin E, aFcM, USN 261McKnight, clyde, cPO, USN MaLMcMillan, Earl K, aK1, USN 089McQuade, Paul J, MS1, USN 207McVicar, Gerard, USN 124Meares, rudolph, cPO, USN 126Mincy, robert, aOc, USN 043Mobley, robert E, aDrc, USN 366Mobley, Winston S, cWO2, USMc 280Mohr, Jodahn, EN1, USN 061Montoya, Marcial T, MScS, USN 060Moore, John 061Moore, ralph E, aDrc, USN 091Moore, robert W, EMc, USN 024

Mroz, Paul a, rMc, USN 308Munson, Elden, GMG1, USN 022Murphy, Eugene r, aDrc, USN 179Myers, Eugene E, SKc, USN 267Myers, John J, EN1, USN 106

Neaves, Bonnie W, hTcS, USN 159Nelson, Donald h, BMcM, USN 068Nicholson, Ernest r, YNc, USN MaL

O’Brien, Thomas P, MScS, USN 060

Panettiere, John, rMc, USN 229Parkhurst, Thomas, MUc, USN 316Paulson, Paul, GYSGT, USMC 101Paux, David r., hMcM, USN 018Petit, Jerry L, aOcS, USN 136Phelps, John, TM1(SS), USN 130Pipitone, Joseph, cPO, USN MaLPowers, John F, GMM1, USN 099Price, robert L, FTcS, USN 166Pritchard, Ellard, acc, USN 091

reeves, James h, FTcM(SS), USN 311rehmeyer, harry J, PO1, USN MaLreyes, Oscar amtiojo, USN 084rohrer, Paul W, raDM, USN MaLrossean, John h, YNc, USN 382rudd, aaron E, aDJ1, USN 175runkle, hyman c, BMc, USN 011ryan, Gordon G, GYSGT, USMc 126

Schainberg, harold, hM1, USN 051Scoggins, Matthew M, cE1, USN MaLSeeley, Orland c, LcDr, USN 011Shaklee, James r, MSGT, USMc 161Sheedy, George P, LI1, USN 022Smarsh, Edward J, WT 2/c, USNr MaLSmith, Darrell E, hTc, USN 070Smith, harvey E, LcDr, USN MaLSnider, Samuel r, aDJc, USN MaLSnow, ross M, cWO2, USN 041Sopkowiak, ambrose h, aKc, USN 091Speigner, Ernest L, FTGc, USN 049Steffens, Marcellus P, LT, USN 310Steggell, Norman h, hMc, USN MaLStrawn, Willard B, SKcS, USN 060

continued on page 33

What To Look Forin a Walk-In Tub:

Five major considerations to help make an informed decision

before buying a Walk-In Tub:

� Quality - A walk-in tub is amajor investment. You wantto find a quality tub that willlast for decades. Look forone that’s 100% leakproof, mold-resistant, full metal frame construction and onethat’s American made.

� Warranty - Ask for a lifetime“no leak guarantee” The besttubs offer a lifetime warrantyon both the tub and the operating system.

� Pain Relieving Therapy - Finda tub that has both waterand air jet therapy to soakaway your aches and painspreferably with a perfectlybalanced water to air mix.

� Comfort - Insist on ergonomicdesign, easy-to-reach controls.

� Endorsements - Only considertubs that are ETL or UL listed.Also look for a tub tested toIAPMO (Internat’l Assoc. ofPlumbing and MechanicalOfficials) standards and that’sUSPC (Universal Spa PlumbingCode) Certified.

Technology Breakthrough Safe, comfortable bathing from Jacuzzi®�

Enjoy A Bath Again… Safely and Affordably

The Designed for SeniorsTM Walk-In tub is luxurious, feature-packed and affordable

• LowThreshold Step

• Jacuzzi®

PointProTM

Jet System

8040

1

Designed For SeniorsTM

Walk-In TubFor information call:

1-888-926-7914Call now Toll-Free and mention your

special promotion code 44311. Third-party financing available with approved credit.

Not Available in Hawaii and Alaska

All rights reserved. © 2012 firstSTREET®, Inc. For Boomers and Beyond®

SEE THE DIFFERENCELaboratory tests clearly show how Jacuzzi®

outperforms other manufacturers’ jet systems, producing a deeper and widerplume of revitalizing bubbles. Best of all, it doesn’t cost you a penny more!

There is nothing like the simplepleasure of taking a warm bath. Thecares of the day seem to fade away,

along with the aches and pains of everydaylife. Unfortunately for many aging Americanswith mobility issues, slipping into a bathcan result in slipping onto the floor. Thefear of falling has made the simple act ofbathing and its therapeutic benefits a thingof the past… until now. firstSTREET, theleader in products Designed for SeniorsTM

has partnered with Jacuzzi®, the companythat perfected hydrotherapy. Together,they’ve created a walk-in tub that offersmore than just safe bathing, peace-of-mindand independence, it can actually help you feel better.

Unlike traditional bathtubs, our Designedfor SeniorsTM Walk-In Tub features a leakproofdoor that allows you to simply step into thetub rather than stepping precariously over

the side. It features a state-of-the-art acrylicsurface, a raised seat, and the controls arewithin easy reach. No other Walk-In Tubfeatures the patented Jacuzzi® PointProTM jetsystem. These high-volume, low-pressurepumps feature a perfectly balanced water toair ratio to massage thoroughly yet gently.Some swirl, some spiral, some deliver largevolumes of water and others target specificpressure points. They are all arranged inprecise locations designed to deliver a therapeutic massage, yet they are fullyadjustable so that your bathing experiencecan be completely unique.

Why spend another day wishing youcould enjoy the luxury and pain-relievingbenefits of a safe, comfortable bath. Call now and you’ll get an unsurpassed limitedlifetime warranty. Knowledgeable productexperts are standing by to help you learnmore about this product. Call Today! New!

32

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

HISToRy & HeRITAge

Saluting Seabees

navy sEabEEs arE Justifiably proud of their “Can Do!” spirit and FRA celebrates the many successes earned by the Seabees as they mark their 70th anniversary on March 5th. This celebrated force embodies its credo — We Build, We Fight — on a daily basis, just as it has since its creation during World War II. Seabees have played a role in every war since, build-ing and fighting on every continent, and always leaving a region better for their endeavors.

The Seabees of today face different threats and solve different problems than their predecessors, but their focus and tenacious spirit have remained unchanged over the course of their storied history. They still em-body the indomitable spirit depicted on the face of the Seabee Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery: “With willing hearts and skillful hands, the difficult we do at once. The impossible takes a bit longer.”

The Seabees began in 1941 as the brainchild of Rear Admiral Ben Moreell, chief of the Navy’s Bureau of Yards and Docks. He recognized the need for person-nel who could defend themselves while performing work on military construction projects. Civilian con-tractors who were currently employed on such projects were considered “non-combatants” and prohibited un-der international law from resisting enemy fire.

Shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Moreell requested and received authority to establish Navy construction units manned by men from the civilian construction trades. He envisioned a Naval Construction Regiment, comprised of three Naval Construction Battalions. These battalions, abbreviated CBs, adopted Moreell’s pro-posed motto —Constuimus, Batuimus — “We Build, We Fight.”

The first Seabees were volunteers, but they were not raw recruits in the traditional sense. Because they were recruited for their construction skill and experience, physical standards were less rigid for Seabee recruits. Volunteers between the ages of 18 and 50 were accepted, with the average age of a Seabee during the early days of World War II being 37.

The Seabees began building their “Can Do” reputation early in WWII, playing a criti-cal role in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, as well as the Panama Canal region that linked the two oceans. Although the Seabees’ mission was to fight only when defending what they built, they participated in many of the pivotal battles of WWII and were awarded 33 Silver Stars and five Navy Crosses for their gallantry. Some of these medals were awarded posthumously to the 290 Seabees killed in action and the 500 who died as a result of con-struction accidents during the war.

During WWII, the Seabees had been a component of the Naval Reserve. Having proven themselves to be a necessary military asset, the Seabees were added to the regular Navy in 1947 and many WWII veterans wished to continue their military service and became part of the 3,300 Seabees on active duty after the war. The Reserve Seabee contingent remained a valuable and ready force for future war fighting.

The Seabees continued to distinguish themselves in Korea and Vietnam, surveying

Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 work on the assembly of a truss to be used on a building at Camp Leatherneck. NMCB-3 is part of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command warfighting support elements providing construction operations and security in support of overseas contingency operations.

Phot

o by

: Pet

ty O

ffice

r 3r

d C

lass

Chr

isto

pher

Car

son

33

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

HISToRy & HeRITAge

roads, building bridges, bunkers, air-fields and camps, and training locals in basic construction skills.

In the ensuing years, the Seabees con-tinued to provide disaster relief to vic-tims of hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and other natural disasters. Their prima-ry peacetime construction project in the 1970s and early 1980s was the creation of a massive military complex on Diego Garcia, an atoll in the Indian Ocean.

During the early days of Operation Desert Shield, Seabees traveled to Kuwait, where they braved sweltering August heat and blowing desert sands to build airfields and parking aprons, base camps, and ammunitions supply points. When Desert Storm began, Seabees crossed the Kuwaiti border in the wake of advancing Allied forces, providing immediate battle-damage repairs to roads and airfields as they went. The Seabees’ humanitarian efforts also continued through the 1990s, providing disaster relief to Kurdish refugees (Operation Provide Comfort), supporting Haitian and Cuban migrants, and assisting those suffering from famine in Somalia. Additionally, they delivered needed supplies and manpower fol-lowing the 1991 eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in the Philippines and Hurricane Andrew, which hit Dade County, Florida.

Today, Seabees continue their proud tradition, representing the United States and her Navy with honor. Seabee units are currently deployed to Afghanistan as part of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, providing construction operations and security in sup-port of overseas contingency operations. A team of eight Seabees recently made history by being the first all-female construction team to take a construction job from start to finish, building four barracks in the mountains of Afghanistan.

For 70 years, the Seabees have consistently demonstrated their ingenuity and skills as builders and fighters. They have incorporated new technology and techniques, and adapted their efforts to meet unique challenges, but they have never wavered from their purpose:

With compassion for others We Build — We Fight for peace with freedom.

Visit www.fra.org/history to share your Seabee memories or tributes.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR’s Detail Four, all female build team; BU3 Kadisha Lee, BU3 Gafayat Moradeyo, BU3 Jessica Vera , CECN Carla Diaz-Castillo, BUCN Shayla Miles, BU3 Amber Mann, SWCN Kacie Dunlavey, and BUCN Shelby Lutrey. NMCB FOUR is a component of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command that provides contingency engineering and construction across Afghanistan in support of the overall mission of International Security Assistance Forces and regional commander requirements.

Strayer, Tom, UTcS, USN 382Sullivan, Edward h., caPT, USN MaLSwartfiguer, roger, SKc, USN 022Sweeney, George a, aDc, USN 043Sweigart, Donald r, cWO4, USN MaLSwift, raymond c, E6 MaL

Taylor, Theodore c, ETcS(SS), USN 018Ten hagen, ray, BTc, USN 175Thiesen, Douglas, cScM, USN MaL

Thornal, Edward G, BTc, USN MaLTischer, allen G, LIcS, USN MaLTownsend, howard L, BU1, USN 120Turon, John W, BMC, USN MAL

Ulrich, Gustav E, aVcM, USN 097

Vanhise, Edward P, cDr, USN 024Victor, James A, CDR, USN 004

Want, Dean H, YNC, USN 117

Wassik, Edward J, aDr1, USN MaLWatrous, Daniel J, rMc, USN 068Weiss, Harry W, CWO, USN 024Wessel, Stanley r., USN 183Wilbanks, Frank M, SKGSN, USN 089Wilder, Luther V, PO1, USN 049Winters, Kent D, aZcS, USN 289

Names in red indicate 50 year continuous members.

nAme BRAncH nAme BRAncH nAme BRAncHTAPS continued from page 30

U.S

. Nav

y ph

oto

by E

nsig

n R

yan

Saw

yer

34

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

newS FRom THe BRAncHeS

BRAncH 246 HoLyoke, mASS.

RPNEng Phil Justin (right) congratulates Shipmate Generoso E. Maddaloni (center) on his 60 years of continuous FRA membership, as Branch President Daniel Bonyeau (left) looks on.

BRAncH 309 newARk, deL.

NP Jeff Gilmartin (left) met with Cadet Matt Szczuka, who is a student at Delaware Military Academy (DMA) and a winner in FRA’s Americanism Essay Contest at the branch and regional levels. DMA Superintendent Col. Wintermantel (right) welcomed NP to the DMA Navy Junior ROTC campus.

BRAncH 207 dALe cITy, vA.

Shipmate Abe Zino poses with Major General Daniel E. Long Jr., Adjutant General of Virginia, during a recent meeting of Virginia’s Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organizations. Zino represents FRA as a member of the council.

BRAncH 41 RoAnoke, vA.

Branch President Joseph Black (left) presents a certificate to Shipmate Harry Collier in recognition of his 40 years of continuous FRA membership.

BRAncH 192 FALLon, nev.

Branch Secretary Pat Erickson (right) was named the 2011 Civilian of the Year for NAS Fallon. He was recognized for his work in the Non-Supervisory category.

35

FRA

Tod

Ay Ma

rc

h 2012

newS FRom THe BRAncHeS

to submit a photo for News from the Branches, please e-mail a photo as an attachment in jpeg format to FRAtoday@fra.org or mail a high-quality photograph to fRa today, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Please include a brief description of the photograph and include the names of those pictured. Laser prints and scanned copies of photographs cannot be accepted.

BRAncH 186 InveRneSS, FLA.

Southeast Region President Fred Boltz administers the oath of office to newly installed branch officers.

BRAncH 162 gReTnA, LA.

Branch Secretary and PRPSC Dave Field (left) and Shipmate Bob Kinghorn (right) pose with Eric Waguespack, Jr., who received a U.S. Savings Bond and a JROTC medal during awards ceremonies at Brother Martin High School in New Orleans.

BRAncH 267 ST. LouIS, mo.

The branch’s newest member Kathleen Gardiner received a special honor following her initiation ceremony when she was invited to present Shipmate Robert Karl with a pin, certificate and platinum membership card commemorating his 50 years of continuous FRA membership. Branch President and RVPNC John Partin also partici-pated in the ceremony.

BRAncH 168 BAInBRIdge, md.

Branch President Bob McMahon (left) and Lawrence Henderson host the beverage booth at the Patients’ Carnival at the VA hospital at Perry Point, Md.

BRAncH 268 okLAHomA cITy, okLA.

Branch President Jessie Whitney and Shipmates Raymond Bacon, Damon Carlton and Les Arnold (l to r) were interviewed by several local media outlets as members of USS Oklahoma Memorial Branch laid a wreath at the USS Oklahoma (BB-37) Memorial on December 7th. Oklahoma Secretary of Veterans Affairs Rita Aragon, Chairman of the Oklahoma Veterans Council Pete Peterson and Danny Oliver, Oklahoma Disabled American Veterans Adjutant, also participated in the ceremony.

36

FRA

To

dAy

M

ar

ch

201

2

FRA AuxILIARy newS

A message from the east coast Regional President

KEEping in Mind thE three principles of the FRA Auxiliary — Loyalty, Protection and Service — Auxiliary members of the East Coast Region demonstrate these with dedication, caring and generosity. They continually aid and assist members, military families, active and retired veterans, needy families and children in their communities. This year is just beginning and members have provided school supplies for needy children, Thanksgiving and Christmas food baskets, plus toys and clothing.

They collected and donated money to give financial support and gifts to a wounded warrior family, and patients of a VA hospital were brought to a Branch Home for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, where each veteran received a spe-cial gift. Christmas packages were mailed to our military men and women serv-ing in Afghanistan and Christmas wreaths were placed to honor our departed veterans and their families.

Clothing and toiletry items are continually collected for battered women shelters and homeless shelters. A Yarn Drive was held and clothing made for the Infants in Need program. Books are donated to the American Red Cross for military hospitals. Members volunteer to coach Little League teams and are ac-tive with the Scouts. Many hours are volunteered to assist members, the elderly and unfortunate and to participate in community activities. These are a few of the many projects in which Auxiliary members actively participate. In addition, the Auxiliary units are always there to assist and participate in branch activities. The outstanding work of the Auxiliary members makes this a great organization.

Past National Presidents and Past Regional Presidents have devoted many hours to serve in leadership positions of the Auxiliary to establish a proud past and we thank you. We ask you to continue to mentor and encourage our young members. The wisdom of past leadership and new ideas of our Auxiliary mem-bers will again light the way to the future.

The National President Gini Larson’s Project is the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Many FRA and Auxiliary members, family and friends have been touched by these diseases. United we must support this worthy cause and join the fight for the cure.

The East Coast Region is pleased that our National Pilgrimage will be held April 28, 2012. The Pilgrimage Hotel is the Westin Hotel Tyson’s Corner, 7801 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, Va. The hotel room rate is $104 plus tax. Call 1-800-937- 8491 or 703-893-1340 for reservations and mention FRA/Auxiliary. The National President’s Tea will be held at 10 am to honor National President Gini Larson. We will board a bus for Arlington National Cemetery at 2 pm, where National President Larson will place a wreath at the Mast of the Maine, followed by the procession and wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns. All members are encouraged to attend and participate in these inspiring ceremonies.

I thank the members of the East Coast Region for electing me and for the opportunity to serve as your Regional President. As a member of the Auxiliary since 1981, I truly believe in the work of the Fleet Reserve Association and the FRA Auxiliary. I look forward to working with our leadership and Auxiliary members to rebuild the membership and have a successful year.

Jackie ScarbroEast Coast Regional President

unit 361, ashville, n.c.Goodwill Ambassador Laura Gilmartin visits Unit 361. Shown (l to r) are Unit Vice President Carol Bagley, President June Cochran, Susan Reith, Laura Gilmartin, Minnie Morrow, Trula Ingle, and Lori Palfrey.

Branch and unit 40, chesapeake, Va.The Wounded Warrior Linton Banks and his family were presented with donations of gifts, food, cash, and gift cards for the holidays. The New England Patriots made a Christmas wish come true by sending Patriots football jerseys and a Patriot game ball to the family’s three teenagers. Shown (front row, l to r) are Linton Banks, Maria Banks, RPEC Jackie Scarbro and RVPEC Christine Murray; (back row, l to r) Patrick White, Kelly White, Unit Secretary Christine White, Bridgette Nuce, FRA PNC Jim Campbell , Unit Vice President Mary Singleton and Mike Campbell.

PERIODICALPoStmASter: SeNd AddreSS chANgeS to:

member ServiceSFrA125 N. WeSt StreetAlexANdriA, vA 22314-2754