FRA Today – July 2013
COMMUNICATIONS
From the Bridge
On & OFF Capitol HILL
FY 2014 Defense Authorization Moves Forward
Veterans Issues
Retiree Issues
Active Duty Issues

Membership Matters
FEATURE:  Supporting Military Retirees
Taps
Looking for…
FRA Essay Contest
News from the Branches
Auxiliary of the FRA News

COMMUNICATIONS  

Supporting Shipmates – Past, Present and Future
This month’s issue of FRA Today highlights a variety of ways in which FRA shipmates help one another. Our feature article is about Retired Services and Retired Activities Offices, agencies that are staffed almost solely by volunteers, the vast majority of whom are military retirees themselves and many are FRA members. This issue also includes coverage of FRA’s involvement in honoring outstanding shipmates who are currently serving (page 12), tributes paid to fallen shipmates on Memorial Day (page 14) and the Association’s efforts to promote Americanism and patriotism among the next generation of service members and shipmates (pages 32–33). 
FRA could not exist without the tremendous efforts of our volunteers working to support one another and our Association as a whole. Branch and regional officers work tirelessly to support the Association and their local communities. Committee chairmen and members serve at the branch, regional and national levels to make our organization stronger. Many FRA members also volunteer at veterans’ hospitals and clinics as part of the Veterans Affairs Voluntary Services (VAVS) program. And branches, as well as individual shipmates, spearhead food and toy drives, support USO events and serve in an assortment of volunteer capacities with other veteran organizations and charitable groups in their respective home towns. In addition to their primary responsibilities, NHQ staff members also volunteer significant time and effort in support of The Military Coalition, the FRA Education Foundation, and important outreach initiatives (including Rolling Thunder on Memorial Day weekend; see page 14) in the Washington D.C., area.
Volunteering not only supports those who need assistance, helping others is an opportunity to give back — to the Association, your community and your fellow shipmates and citizens. Volunteering also provide tremendous opportunities for learning new skills and meeting new people, and sets a tremendous example for those who follow in your footsteps, too. 
FRA appreciates all you do to make the Association, your branch and region, and your local community a better place. 

Lauren Armstrong is FRA’s Director of Communications and serves as the Managing Editor of FRA Today. Please contact her at lauren@fra.org.

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From the Bridge  
By FRA National President Mark Kilgore

This month begins the new Association Year for 2013–2014 at the local branch level. Elections and branch installations are complete and the Annual Reports of Branch Officers have been submitted to both the Regional President and FRA National Headquarters. For those of you who are new to branch office, your predecessors and the FRA website (www.fra.org) are valuable resources to assist you in carrying out your new responsibilities and duties. If you are unable to find what you are looking for on the website’s drop-down menus, try using the search function. It is simple and quick to use, plus it can save you both time and frustration. Our website is also a great way to communicate with your elected officials in Washington. Each communication received is considered to represent another 25 people that did not bother to communicate with their representative or senator. It does, and you can, make a difference.
Also your Branch Committee Reports should be in the hands of your Regional Committee Chairpersons for judging at the regional conventions being held this month and next. Hopefully, you have included all the programs your branch conducted this past year, both those that were successful and those that could be improved for the future, so that your fellow shipmates and branches may learn from your endeavors. In my travels over the past several years, I have heard of very successful projects resulting in great local public relations; however, for some reason, they never seem to get written up in the annual Branch Committee Reports. These reports provide helpful information and can serve as guides for others to maximize personnel and financial resources, especially during these austere times. Remember, good public relations efforts are excellent recruiting opportunities!
Next month you will be receiving a packet from National Headquarters containing the resolutions to be considered at FRA’s 86th National Convention in October. During our gathering in Chattanooga, Tenn., shipmates will discuss and vote on resolutions concerning changes to our Constitution and Bylaws (C&BL), our Standing Rules and Rituals, as well as nominations for Honorary Membership and Certificates of Merit. The nominating resolutions for National President and National Vice President (for Association Year 2013–2014) and for National Executive Director (NED, for Association Years 2013–2016) have been previously disseminated to the branches as they were received, in accordance with our FRA C&BL.
As I mentioned in March of this year, there is a resolution to change the NED position from its current elected status to a hired appointment. If that resolution is adopted by the delegates at National Convention, all NED candidates will be interviewed by the National Board of Directors. To ensure all candidates are considered, regardless of the position’s status, all NED candidates must submit their resumes to National Headquarters (Attention: National President) no later than September 1, 2013.
Please keep our constitution’s preamble in mind over the coming months. In light of Super Storm Sandy in the Northeast earlier this year; the two horrific tornadoes that hit in close proximity to Oklahoma City, Okla., in May; and, now that we are in hurricane season in the Southeast, it’s important that we remember “Our Devotion to our shipmates in good fortune or distress.” I have been both amazed and extremely proud of the way our shipmates have responded to the natural disasters in their areas and their immediate efforts to seek out and assist their fellow shipmates. 
In closing, I’d also like to mention and thank the FRA National Headquarters staff for their rapid response in a myriad of ways to assist our shipmates helping shipmates. Go, Team FRA!

Mark Kilgore is FRA’s National President and a member of Branch 22 In Pensacola, Fla.

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 shipmate forum
Degrees for Sailors   
Robert E. Lowell’s letter in the May 2013 FRA Today on CPO leadership qualities and the emerging importance of college degrees for CPO advancement is spot on. His two clearly defined “most important factors in determining a Chief’s worth” (how well he/she accomplishes the mission to which assigned, and how well he/she takes care of his/her personnel) are as a succinct a statement as I’ve seen on this and, from my point of view, covers all that is important.
I never have seen the value of a BA degree to a CPO and the few who earned a BS either got out to use their degree [in the civilian workplace] or applied for an officer program — thus adding no value to the CPO community. The Navy Senior Enlisted Academy seems a lot more practical and I suspect a lot more focused on directly supporting the Navy’s CPO community requirements, rather than purely personal academic development.
Being an academic success is not necessarily an indicator of practical success. And aren’t all successful CPOs practical people who get things done and take care of their troops?
Thomas E Clark 

I take exception to comments made by MCPO Dayle I. Fish, who seems to imply that those of us who do not have some sort of secondary scholastic credentials may be amateurs —not possessing the traits, desires and intelligence to succeed and attain a leadership position. 
I totally agree with the comments by CPO Robert E. Lowell, which are more in line with what our goals and values should be. I remember a brother and an uncle returning after being discharged from naval service [following WWII], and from those memories my only goal was to be a Sailor. The day I turned 17, I quit high school and 11 days later I arrived at Recruit Training at Great Lakes. During my 22-year career as a Boiler Technician, I had no desire to go to college or any of the schools that taught “How to be a CPO.” By the time I had taken the exam for CPO, I had already learned how to be 	a CPO from my predecessors — both good and not-so-good. I am glad I did not have to be distracted from my job by something I did not desire or need to be a success in my chosen profession. What a waste of time and money it would have been for me and my Navy.
During my career I was urged to apply for various programs that would lead me to the wardroom. I declined. I just wanted to be a Sailor. I was just where I wanted to be — a member of the CPO Mess, taking care of my hole snipes and ship, offering guidance and advice as needed or requested to those who chose the wardroom as a career path. 
As a dedicated and loyal, first-on and last-off, black oil, hole snipe I have come to believe that I really do prefer “the hum of machinery to the whine of people.” 
F. M. Carroll
Retired Activities Offices
I have just heard the number of Retired Activity Offices (RAO) is diminishing. That’s bad news, because I know of some of the work the San Diego RAO does. My friend was dying and I suggested he and his wife go to local RAO and find out what she should do at his demise. The volunteers there outlined everything she needed to do and things went smoothly for her and her family after her husband’s death.
 When another friend’s husband died suddenly, she didn’t know anything about who to contact. She didn’t even know where she and husband were banking! The same people at RAO San Diego found out what bank, and in process found Insurance policies in the safe deposit box for $100,000. She was kindly guided by those nice people in all the other matters and is very happy there is an RAO!
 Shipmates, we ought to help with the RAO’s if we can. RAO volunteers bring members of the retired community up to date on matters that are constantly changing in Washington and answer their questions. These volunteers work hard every day to help the area’s retirees and never collect one cent for their work!
 Harvey C. Swinford 
FRA Response: Well stated, Shipmate Swinford! Your comments reinforce the message of this month’s feature story which begins on page 18. 

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. 

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On & OFF Capitol HILL

FY 2014 Defense Authorization Moves Forward
As FRA Today goes to press, the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) has approved the House version of the FY 2014 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA, H.R.1960) and the Senate Armed Services Committee is marking up the Senate version of the bill. These and other committees are conducting hearings and markups on other important legislation related to FRA’s legislative agenda. 
The HASC rejected the Administration’s request to establish an enrollment fee for TRICARE-for-Life (TFL) and TRICARE Standard beneficiaries and increase TRICARE Prime enrollment fees and pharmacy co-pays. The Committee also approved a 1.8-percent military pay raise for FY 2014 to keep pace with non-military salary increases, despite only a one-percent increase requested in the Pentagon’s budget proposal. 
The HASC-approved measure also includes provisions that would prohibit command authorities from dismissing all but minor sexual offenses from a court martial and/or reducing a guilty finding in a sexual assault case to a lesser offense. Other provisions include:
•	Reducing overall military end strength by more than 40,000, including a 7,100 reduction in Marine Corps manpower. (Navy manpower would increase by 900); 
•	Providing a one-time offer for TRICARE Prime beneficiaries to keep their current coverage even though they live outside the soon-to-be-reduced Prime Service Area (PSA) (See page 10 for a related story.) 
•	Mandating minimum notification of 120 days for mobilization of Reserve units; 
•	Protecting child-custody arrangements while a military parent is on deployment; 
•	Expanding Servicemember Civil Relief Act (SCRA) mortgage protections for service members, surviving spouses, and veterans; 
•	Authorizing “veterans status” for members of the Reserve Component who served 20 or more years in the Guard or Reserve and are thereby considered military retirees but due to current criteria, do not qualify for veterans status:
•	Changing the name of the Navy to Department of the Navy and Marine Corps;
•	Providing $25 million in Impact Aid for public schools impacted by military population; and 
•	Prohibiting another round of base closures and realignments (BRAC) for one year. 
These are major legislative victories for FRA and it’s clear that FRA shipmates’ voices are being heard on Capitol Hill. However, the battle to halt drastic increases to TRICARE fees, provide an active duty pay raise that’s at least equal to the Employment Cost Index (ECI) and protect other benefits is just beginning. The debate over benefits now shifts to the Senate, which will soon be considering the bill. 
A conference committee will reconcile the differences between the House and Senate bills after both chambers approve their respective versions of the NDAA. Members are urged to use the FRA Action Center at www.fra.org to share their views with lawmakers on these and other pending issues that impact their earned benefits.

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FRA Defends Military Resale System and Other Benefits
In response to a prominent front page story in the Washington Post on Sunday, June 2, 2013, NED Joe Barnes wrote to the paper’s editors to clarify misinformation in the story about the military resale system and criticism about benefit enhancements enacted since 2000. He stated that the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) is highly efficient and well run, and that major benefit improvements during the past 12 years were enacted to address “a 13.5-percent pay gap, readiness and retention challenges, concerns about a ‘hollow force’ and to honor the government’s broken promises to those who served in the past.” He also cited military compensation, health care, retirement and other benefit programs as essential to sustaining the All Volunteer Force and ensuring our national security and equally, if not more, important than growing entitlement and social programs. 
A copy of the June 7th letter is available on the FRA website at www.fra.org/news.
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Memorial Day Observances
Shipmates across the country participated in Memorial Day ceremonies to pay tribute to America’s fallen heroes.
FRA’s East Coast Regional President Donald Hoover represented National President Mark Kilgore at Memorial Day ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery on Monday, May 27. He was joined by other national leaders in honoring the men and women who have died in service to our nation by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns.
Branches from the East Coast Region’s Central Liaison Committee sponsored a ceremony at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., on Monday, May 27. 
On Saturday and Sunday (May 25 and 26), shipmates from the D.C. area and members of the FRA National Headquarters (NHQ) team staffed an information booth at Rolling Thunder, an annual motorcycle tribute in the nation’s capital to ensure that Vietnam POWs and MIAs are not forgotten.

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NEX Expands Price Match Policy
The Navy Exchange (NEX) announced that it will now match online prices from Walmart.com, Target.com, Amazon.com, BestBuy.com, Sears.com, ToysRUs.com and BabiesRUs.com.
“We expanded our Price Match Policy to be more responsive to our customers,” said Rear Adm. Robert J. Bianchi (Ret), Chief Executive Officer for Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM). “More people are shopping online for their purchases and we want to assure them that they can get the same price at their NEX, so we are now matching major online retailers.”
The qualifying competitive online price may be presented on a mobile device, such as a tablet or smartphone. If the price difference is $10 or less, the price will be matched on the spot. If the online site’s price is more than $10 lower than that offered at the NEX, it may be verified by a NEX associate or supervisor.
The NEX will also continue to match the regular, everyday shelf price or advertised price in a local competitor’s current advertisement. Customers should present the advertised price in the form of a printed advertisement or displayed on a mobile device. 
Shoppers should also be aware of NEX’s 14-day price guarantee: If customers buy a qualifying item at a NEX and then find the identical item for less within 14 days in an NEX ad, a local competitor’s ad or at a qualifying online retailer (listed above), NEX will match the price. Simply bring in the original NEX store receipt and proof of the current lower price. Items already on layaway also qualify for a price reduction.
It’s also important to remember that NEXCOM contributes 70 percent of its profits to Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs worldwide and that every purchase is also an investment in these important quality-of-life programs.
For more information about the price matching policy and all NEX policies go to: www.mynavyexchange.com/command/customer_service/price_match.html, or stop in and speak with an NEX associate.

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President Signs Stolen Valor Act into Law
President Obama recently signed into law the FRA-supported “Stolen Valor Act” (H.R. 258) that protects the integrity of military awards by making it a crime to knowingly benefit from fraudulent claims of military decorations. In June of 2012, the Supreme Court (United States v. Alvarez) overturned a previous Stolen Valor law on the grounds that it infringed on constitutionally-protected free speech.
This bill, sponsored by Rep. Joe Heck (Nev.), makes a key change to the previous language that should withstand constitutional scrutiny because the legislation narrowly focuses on those who seek to benefit from their misrepresentations of military awards, not the lie itself. FRA thanks the nearly 1,600 shipmates who contacted their senators on short notice, urging them to “fast-track” the bill for rapid approval by the full Senate. Your efforts paid dividends!

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Veterans Issues
GI Bill Improvements Move Forward in the House
The House Veterans Affairs Committee recently approved the “GI Bill Tuition Fairness Act” (H.R. 357), sponsored by Committee Chairman Jeff Miller (Florida) and Ranking Member Mike Michaud (Maine). The bill requires colleges and universities eligible for GI Bill education benefits to offer in-state tuition rates to veterans even if they are not residents of the state where the school is located.
“The men and women who served this nation did not just defend the citizens of their home states, but the citizens of all 50 states. As such, the educational benefits they receive from the taxpayers should reflect that,” said Chairman Miller. “By offering in-state tuition, service members can attend an institution of higher learning that meets their specific needs without worrying about higher costs which non-residents often must pay.”
“Because of the nature of military service, veterans often have a difficult time establishing residency for purposes of obtaining in-state tuition rates,” added Ranking Member Michaud. “This bill will address this problem and ensure that veterans can access the affordable higher education options they have earned.”
The bill is being considered by the full House at press time. Members are urged to use the FRA Action Center at www.fra.org to ask their legislators to support this legislation and the Senate companion bill (S. 257).

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New Agent Orange Bill Introduced
Rep. Chris Gibson (New York) recently introduced the “Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act” (H.R. 1494) that requires the United States Army and DoD’s Joint Services Records Research Center (JSRRC) to do a comprehensive search to determine which ships operated on the inland waterways of Vietnam between January 9, 1962 and May 7, 1975. Service members serving on those ships would be eligible for a presumption of Agent Orange exposure when filing disability claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Earlier this year, Gibson also introduced the “Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act” (H.R. 543) that clarifies a presumption for ailments associated with exposure to Agent Orange herbicide during the Vietnam War. The bill would authorize those who served off the coast of Vietnam, so-called “blue water vets,” to claim disability benefits from the VA.
FRA believes Congress should recognize that these veterans were exposed to Agent Orange and authorize VA presumption associated with this exposure. Shipmates are strongly urged to use the FRA Action Center (www.fra.org) to ask their representative to support these important proposals.

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HVAC Examines VA Claims Backlog
The House Veterans Affairs Committee (HVAC) recently conducted another oversight hearing on the disability claims backlog at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Committee members voiced concerns about the scope of the backlog, employee training and performance reviews, and how VA plans to justify lengthy wait times for decisions to veterans. Under Secretary for Benefits Allison Hickey spoke about the 34,834 claims (that had been pending for two years or longer) that had been adjudicated within the previous 30 days and how the Veterans Benefit Administration (VBA) was on track to finish an additional 32,000 by the end of June.
To help address the situation, HVAC Chairman Jeff Miller (Florida) and House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy (California) introduced legislation (H.R. 2189) that would establish and charge an independent task force to analyze VA’s claims processing system, examine the root cause of the backlog and provide solutions for ending it by 2015. Chairman Miller wants outside help from the private sector and the VSO community in working toward a solution. 
Ranking Member Michael Michaud (Maine) expressed skepticism about eliminating the backlog on the legislation’s timeline. “In April 2011, it took an average of 182 days for VA to complete a claim. Today, it takes an average of 279 days. VA Secretary Eric Shinseki has set a goal of processing all compensation and pension claims received in 125 days at 98-percent accuracy by 2015. VA is planning to increase staff, undertake claims processing initiatives, and is in the process of rolling out the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS), a business transformation effort that is projected to result in a paperless environment for claims processing and benefits delivery,” said Michaud. “But there is no question that VA must do better, and the numbers don’t add up for VA to get there by 2015.”
FRA is closely tracking the claims backlog and believes the situation undermines the country’s solemn pledge to properly care for disabled veterans.

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Retiree Issues
TMA Asks Beneficiaries to Update DEERS Record
TRICARE Management Activity (TMA) reminds beneficiaries to keep their Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) information current. This means making sure all personal information — phone numbers, postal and e-mail addresses — is up to date. Also, just like when moving, sponsors who experience any of the following life events must update their DEERS records as soon as possible:
•	Activation 
•	Deactivation 
•	Separation or retirement 
•	Becoming Medicare eligible or loss of eligibility 
•	Marriage or divorce 
•	Birth or adoption of child 
•	Change in student’s enrollment status 
Making changes to DEERS information is easy and can be done online at milConnect (www.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect), by fax or mail, or in person at the nearest uniformed services identification card office. Many DEERS updates require supporting documentation, such as marriage licenses, birth or death certificates, Medicare cards or DD-214 discharge forms. Be sure to bring copies of all paperwork that might be needed when updating DEERS information. For more information on how to update DEERS records, including questions about TRICARE eligibility, please visit www.tricare.mil/DEERS. 

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Active Duty Issues
FRA Salutes Outstanding Coast Guardsmen and Sailors
On May 10th, FRA’s East Coast Regional President Don Hoover represented National President Mark Kilgore and the Association at ceremonies to honor the Coast Guard’s Enlisted Persons of the Year. Penny Collins, the Association’s director of Membership and Retention, also attended the events and FRA salutes BM1 Benjamin Snider, active duty Enlisted Person of the Year (EPOY), and YN1 Stepheni Norton, Reserve EPOY.
FRA also congratulates the Navy’s 2012 Sailors of the Year (SOY), who were meritoriously promoted to chief petty officers during ceremonies in the D.C. area in May. AWSC (NAC/AW) Brain W. DeNike, 2012 Reserve Sailor of the Year; CTNC(IDW/AW) Shannon N. McQueen, 2012 CNO Shore Sailor of the Year; ETC(AW/SW) Cheyenne N. Shasky, 2012 U.S. Fleet Forces Sailor of the Year and member of FRA Branch 293 (Elizabeth City, N.C.); and HMC(FMF) Joseph C. Santos, 2012 U.S. Pacific Fleet Sailor of the Year and member of FRA Branch 46 (Honolulu, Hawaii), participated in a variety of recognition events as part of SOY Week festivities. 
National Executive Director Joe Barnes, RPEC Hoover, Outreach Manager Bob Washington and Assistant Legislative Director Ed Dockery took part in several of these events, including an FRA-sponsored tour of the U.S. Capitol and a Capitol Hill luncheon for the SOYs and their families, and an advancement ceremony held at the U.S. Navy Memorial. 

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Update on Sexual Assault in the Military
A recent Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing focused on what the Pentagon has labeled an “epidemic” of sexual assault in the military. The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and senior leaders of the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Army and Air Force testified, stating that sexual assault is criminal behavior and citing its negative impact on unit discipline and readiness. The military leaders also sent a letter to SASC Chairman Carl Levin (Michigan) and Ranking Member James Inhofe (Oklahoma), indicating their opposition to legislative proposals that would give uniformed prosecutors, rather than commanders, the authority to investigate sexual assault accusations. They claim that change would undermine the chain of command and send a message that commanders cannot be trusted.
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (New York), along with 15 original co-sponsors, introduced the “Military Justice Improvement Act” (S. 967) in the wake of a recent Pentagon report indicating that an estimated 26,000 cases of sexual assault occurred in the military during FY 2012. This reflects a 37-percent increase in reported assault cases from FY 2011 and the report states that more than one in five female service members reported experiencing unwanted sexual contact while serving in the military.
The legislation would remove the decision about taking a sexual assault case to special or general court-martial completely out of the chain of command and give that discretion to experienced military prosecutors. The bill would also apply to all military crimes that are punishable by one year or more in confinement, except crimes that are uniquely military in nature, such as disobeying orders or being absent without leave (AWOL).
Although the legislation is receiving bipartisan support, some legislators have expressed concerns that the measure goes too far. Rep. Michael Turner (Ohio), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, believes “It’s far too soon to take a hatchet to the judicial system. The problem is a cultural issue.” 
President Obama also met with Secretary of Defense (SecDef) Chuck Hagel and other top Pentagon officials to discuss sexual assault in the military. Following another report of a military sexual-assault prevention officer accused of “abusive sexual contact,” Hagel issued an emergency order to retrain and rescreen all 9,000 service members tasked with preventing sexual assault. In related news, the House Armed Services Committee markup of the FY 2014 Defense Authorization includes provisions on sexual assault. See page 8 for more details. 

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CFPB Issues Report on Military Complaints
The Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB) Office of Servicemember Affairs (OSA) issued a report on its efforts to help military personnel with their financial challenges. The report indicates that 3,455 complaints were received at OSA during 2012. Mortgage grievances predominate, followed by credit card and credit reporting complaints. OSA also responds to protests related to bank accounts/service, student loans, and vehicle or consumer loans.
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (P.L. – 111-203) created the Bureau, which was launched in July 2011 and is the first federal agency solely focused on consumer financial protection. FRA successfully advocated for inclusion of an Office of Service Member Affairs in the legislation that would assist the whole military community: active duty and Reserve personnel, retirees, family members and veterans.
For more information about the CFPB Office of Servicemembers Affairs go to: http://www.consumerfinance.gov/servicemembers/
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TRICARE Prime West Region Referral Waiver Ends
In mid-May, TRICARE Management Activity (TMA) announced the continuation of referral waivers for TRICARE Prime beneficiaries in the TRICARE West Region. The waiver period, which was originally slated to end on May 18th, was extended through June 18, 2013, after which providers will submit referrals and authorizations as usual.
The waiver suspended the requirement that all referrals be approved by United Healthcare before the beneficiary could obtain specialty care. United is the new administrator for TRICARE’s West Region and has made progress in reducing the backlog of referral requests since the initial waiver was announced. The extension was designed to allow more time to process existing referrals and ensure beneficiaries are seen by specialists in a timely manner.
The waiver applied to referrals obtained from April 1 through June 18, 2013, for care expected to be received through August 18, 2013. While United Healthcare continues to clear its backlog of referrals, Prime enrollees in the West Region who get a referral from their Primary Care Manager (PCM) will still be able to seek TRICARE-covered services from a network specialist. This authorization waiver is only for TRICARE Prime beneficiaries in the West Region.
For more information, visit www.uhcmilitarywest.com.
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Protect Beneficiaries Forced Out of TRICARE Prime
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (Minn.) introduced legislation (S. 1078) that would require the Defense Department (DoD) to continue offering the TRICARE Prime health care coverage option to beneficiaries who reside in areas where DoD plans to discontinue the program on October 1, 2013. Earlier this year, the Pentagon announced that TRICARE Prime Service Areas (PSA) will be limited to within 40 miles of military treatment facilities at active or former military bases throughout the U.S. – a move that will force approximately 173,000 retirees and family members to switch from TRICARE Prime to TRICARE Standard.
The legislation is identical to a House measure (H.R. 1971) sponsored by Rep. John Kline (Minnesota) and would help TRICARE Prime beneficiaries who are concerned about the higher cost of TRICARE Standard coverage. 
In a prepared statement, Kline said, “Promises made should be promises kept and the Pentagon should not break faith with our nation’s heroes.” The legislation would help TRICARE Prime beneficiaries who might not be able to afford the extra cost associated with TRICARE Standard and “reduce the immediate impact imposed by the new policy by allowing military retirees to make informed decisions on how to best utilize their military retirement health care benefits while they consider future life decisions.” 
The PSA policy change is viewed by beneficiaries as a reduction in earned benefits and FRA believes current TRICARE Prime beneficiaries who live in impacted areas should be authorized continued access to TRICARE Prime coverage until they relocate or change their current primary care provider. The Association addressed this issue in recent congressional testimony and in meetings with legislators and their staff. FRA’s National Board of Directors (NBOD) also raised this issue during recent Capitol Hill visits on April 25, 2013. Provisions of the bill have been included in the House Armed Services Committee version of the FY 2014 Defense Authorization bill (H.R. 1960), referenced on page 8.
Shipmates are urged to use the FRA Action Center (www.fra.org) to contact their legislators on this important issue. 
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_______________________________________________
The FRA Legislative team is Joe Barnes, National Executive Director; John Davis, Director of Legislative Programs and Branch 181 President; Bob Washington, Health Care Advisor and Outreach Manager; Chris Slawinski, National Veterans Service Officer and Ed Dockery, Assistant Director of Legislative Programs.

Membership Matters

Partnerships
Forming partnerships with other organizations to promote the image and raise awareness of the FRA can be a worthwhile effort. Some of our branches already have partnerships with organizations that share goals, missions and purposes similar to those of the FRA. Let’s take a look at what they are doing:
To advance your branch’s involvement in youth activities, it may be helpful to form an alliance with the JROTC programs in your area. In doing so, you are automatically in a partnership to mentor the students and raise awareness of the FRA. In conjunction with these partnerships, FRA Branch 159 (Pasadena, Texas) offers Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard ROTC and JRROTC medals for sale. (Contact Branch Secretary Leo Vance at snlvance@comcast.net or 713-920-1558 for more information.)
Be on the lookout for other school-related partnerships, too, such as supporting school-sponsored clubs or activities that may be interested in FRA’s American Essay Contest. 
This annual contest (see pages 32 and 33 for more information) is another way to partner with local schools to give students the opportunity to express their views on patriotism. Encouraging students to participate and then recognizing local and regional winners advances FRA’s mission and also contributes to the community and country. Branches can offer various awards to the most deserving students, including certificates, plaques and other awards. Mo-Kan Branch 161 (Kansas City, Kans.) sells spinner trophies and wooden logo plaques for the Essay Contest winners. (Contact PRPNC Norm Combs at bilgerat@sbcglobal.net or 816-847-6562 for more information.) 
Partnering with other local veterans service organization in observance of Memorial and Veterans Day is an extraordinary way to collectively focus on the heroes of the past and present. If your community hosts a stellar Veterans Day program, your branch could play a role in gaining recognition at the national level. Since 1954, the Veterans Day National Committee has recognized select observances throughout the country that represent fitting tributes to America’s heroes, and there are several states that have no programs recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). If you would like to know if your state is one of them, please contact Chris Slawinski, FRA’s National Veterans Service Officer at 1-800-FRA-1924, x115, or vafra@fra.org for further information. 
Joining forces with other military and veteran organizations can strengthen both the FRA and the community. Ogden Branch 185 (Salt Lake City, Utah) partners with the VFW Honor Guard to participate in many funerals throughout the year. There are occasions when two or three funerals are scheduled at the same time and, by working together, the two organizations are always ready to provide this important tribute. They also work together conducting Eagle Scout ceremonies and Cub Scout flag folding lessons. 
Many of our members have skills and professional connections that can produce powerful partnerships. Following the recent tornadoes that ripped through Oklahoma, Branch 268 Secretary Susan Hammond (Oklahoma City, Okla.) used her professional affiliation with the Salvation Army to help fellow shipmates. She had been working 12-hour days with disaster relief efforts and helping to coordinate five Multi-Agency Relief Centers in Oklahoma, so she was acutely aware of the needs of shipmates affected by the disaster. She identified a shipmate in the local area who needed assistance and applied for Disaster Relief through the FRA. Her quick efforts and knowledge of FRA’s ability to help made a difference for this shipmate. 
Working as a team toward a common goal can be fulfilling and usually creates more meaningful results. Service and support are what FRA is all about and I hope each shipmate and branch will work to create partnerships to advance FRA’s important mission. 

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.
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Member Benefits
TAKE ACTION! 
FRA provides the Action Center on www.fra.org and a pocket guide called Communicate With Your Elected Officials to make communicating with members of Congress easy and convenient. On the Action Center, you can access a list of hot issues and send pre-written messages (or write your own) to your legislators to weigh in. You can also look up your senators and representative to see how they’ve voted on issues of importance to FRA shipmates. Both the Action Center and the Communicate With Your Elected Officials guide are free benefits brought to you by FRA. If you would like a copy of Communicate With Your Elected Officials, please e-mail Eileen@fra.org and include your name and mailing address.
Communicate!
FRA offers Communities on www.fra.org to help shipmates keep in touch with their branch, communicate with HQ, and get information. Use the Communities and be involved! Login to www.fra.org and click Communities. You will see the communities to which you belong — each branch and MALs have individual communities. There are also communities for FRA Today and OnWatch readers, people concerned about health care, and more. This is a place to ask the experts or share your opinions or frustrations. 
NewsBytes
NewsBytes is a free weekly legislative e-mail update designed to keep recipients up-to-date between issues of FRA Today. To subscribe, e-mail newsbytes@fra.org and include your member number (found above your name on the cover of this magazine). To listen to NewsBytes by phone, call 1-800-FRA-1924, ext. 112. 
Provide Input!
FRA is very interested in hearing from you. There’s always a survey available at www.fra.org/survey. The surveys are quick, easy and help us share your concerns with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
Like FRA!
Visit www.fra.org/fb to view FRA’s Facebook page and join our growing list of fans who “like” us. It’s a great place to post photos, videos, have discussions and find old friends. If you’re already on Facebook, you can invite others to check out FRA and use the page as a great recruiting tool! Our fans also are the first to hear of breaking news, get links to items of importance and shortcuts to other pages of interest.
Take control!
When you login to www.fra.org, not only can you access members-only information, you can also control your membership record. Would you like to subscribe to NewsBytes? Simply click a box. Are you needing a replacement membership card or invoice? Click a box and we’ll send you one within 24 business hours. You can also donate directly to FRA online and even print out a copy of your donation history for your records.
FRA Affinity Partners
FRA also has partnerships with several companies for the benefit of FRA members. When you use these companies, not only do you get a discount, but FRA receives a royalty as well. It’s a win-win situation — and a fantastic way for you to help FRA while you are helping yourself!
FRA MasterCard from USAA
FRA is partnering with USAA to administer a new FRA MasterCard program. This award-winning financial services company is committed to providing outstanding customer service to our shipmates. 
GEICO Car Insurance
Call 1-800-MILITARY (1-800-645-4827) and ask for the FRA member benefit discount. 
Capella University 
FRA members and spouses are eligible for tuition discounts at Capella University, an accredited, military-friendly, online university that has built its reputation by providing high quality online degree programs for working adults. Visit www.capella.edu/FRA for more information. 
Columbia Southern University 
In an education alliance with FRA, Columbia Southern University offers competitive tuition rates, waives application fees for service members and offers discounts to FRA shipmates. Visit www.columbiasouthern.edu/Partners/LearningPartners/fleet for further details.
FRA Endorsed Insurance Programs
As an FRA member you can choose from high quality, competitively priced insurance plans to help protect you and your family. Each quality plan has been designed for FRA members like you. You can select insurance protection to meet your family’s insurance needs at economical group rates. Request information regarding the plans of your choice through this website: www.FRAinsure.com or call toll-free 1-800-424-1120.
Navy Times/MARINE CORPS TIMES
FRA members qualify for a special subscription rate of 52 weeks for $39.95. Call 1-800-368-5718 to start or renew your subscription. Use FRA priority member code: 1516N3.
Avis Car Rentals
When making reservations through Avis at 1-800-331-1212 or www.avis.com, be sure to use your FRA membership benefit discount: AWD#T867500.
HERTZ Car Rentals
When making reservations through Hertz at 1-800-654-3131 or www.hertz.com, be sure to use your FRA membership benefit discount: CDP#332104.
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FEATURE:  Supporting Military Retirees  
by Lauren Armstrong
Retirement from military service means different things to different people. For some, it means a bittersweet sense of freedom — from alarm clocks, daily schedules and regular deployments. For others, it means “re-hirement” in a civilian career field where sharply pressed uniforms are exchanged for business suits or blue jeans. 
Unfortunately, many military retirees share a sense of loss and sadness at retirement, often rooted in the feeling they’ve been quite literally “separated” from the service they love. When they start getting retired pay, they stop getting the “in uniform” preference in the commissary and exchange check-out lines, and most military healthcare facilities see retirees on a space-available basis. Most retirees aren’t as engaged with the military community as they were during their time on active duty and many say they feel disconnected from their respective branches of service.
That’s where retiree support programs come in. The Navy and Marine Corps have Retired Activities Offices (RAOs) and the Coast Guard (and Army and Air Force) have Retired Services Offices (RSOs), but the purpose is the same: to be a resource for retirees. RAOs/RSOs keep retirees informed about their benefits,  rights, privileges and changes in retirement law and policy that affect them, their families and survivors. RAOs/RSOs are involved in planning and promoting Retiree Appreciation Days, educational seminars and networking opportunities for local members of the retired community. These offices and those who staff them are committed to providing the best possible customer service and support to military retirees. 
Each branch of the Sea Services operates its retired activities programs a bit differently, but they all operate on the fundamental premise of helping retirees and their family members. Often affiliated with family services and support programs at military installations, the RAOs/RSOs are a one-stop shop for retirees who have questions or need assistance. 
“We can answer questions about retired pay, survivor benefits, taxes and a wealth of other concerns retirees have, and if we don’t know the answer, we can point retirees in the right direction,” says Shipmate Paul Loveless (Branch 156, Brunswick, Maine), FRA’s president of the New England Region and also a volunteer at the RAO at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. “If we can’t be a retiree’s only stop, we really encourage them to make us their first stop when they need assistance.” 
Navy RAOs
Navy RAOs are overseen by the Navy’s Retired Activities Program, which is dedicated to supporting more than 650,000 Navy retirees, families, annuitants  and survivors worldwide. 
“Our main office is located in Millington, Tennessee, and we report to the Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP) as part of the OPNAV staff,” explains John McCausland, head of Navy Retired Activities. “We are responsible for policy development and provide guidance to our 32 field offices located in the United States, Italy and Spain. They are supported by local commands and staffed by retirees who give freely of their time and energy to assist retirees and their family members with a wide variety of issues related to TRICARE, VA benefits, retired pay, benefits and entitlements, insurance — to name a few.”
Many Navy RAOs have offices in Fleet and Family Support Centers, facilities that talk with and assist all members of the military community, including active duty and Reserve personnel, retirees, their dependents and designated survivors. This allows retirees the opportunity to receive support for a variety of concerns and needs, not just those that pertain to their status as retirees. 
“Local Retired Activities Offices help answer questions and help solve problems for retirees by serving as a point of contact between the local retiree community and military/government agencies and offices at the local and headquarters level,” continues McCausland. “They provide liaison support and follow-up services to survivors and family members of retirees to ensure they are aware of entitlements. They help retirees handle the many steps required in navigating the bureaucracy and assist them in obtaining or correcting personnel records, renewing their ID cards, and putting them in touch with the right offices.” 
“Our RAOs are very knowledgeable on retiree issues, such as dealing with the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) and making sense of the documents that need to be filed in the event of a retiree’s death. They’re our experts on campus,” says Keith Goosby, coordinator of the Navy’s Southwest Regional Work and Family Life programs in San Diego, California. “But retirees also have access to other services at our facility, such as resume writing and job search assistance.” 
Marine Corps RAOs
The Marine Corps Retiree Affairs Office is part of the Corps’ Retirement and Separations Branch. Headquartered in Quantico, Va., this entity oversees the service’s network of Retired Activities Offices and assists retired Marines, dependents and survivors with a broad array of other services and support, including the management of the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), assisting retirees and dependents with ID card matters and Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) enrollment, publishing the Semper Fidelis retiree newsletter, administering the Secretary of the Navy Retiree Council, and publishing the Retirement Guide.
Like the Navy RAOs, many USMC RAOs are located at installation Family Services Centers and work closely with other support offices in the building.
Kimberly Bennett wears multiple hats in her role as the personal and professional development coordinator at Quantico Marine Corps Base, Va. She’s a paid staff member who serves as an information referral specialist as well as a retired activities officer. She coordinates Retiree Day activities and other events that are of interest to military retirees, and makes sure they are included in the base newspaper and the Semper Fidelis newsletter for retirees. 
“There’s a lot of overlap between the two jobs,” she explains. “I tell people I’m ‘one-woman deep’ here and I do my best to make sure retirees get the information and assistance they need. If they need help looking for a job after retirement, for example, I refer them to our Career Resource Center. If they are trying to handle all the paperwork associated with the death of a retiree, I help them get organized and make sure they have all the necessary documentation. My goal is to help minimize their frustration and help them avoid multiple trips to the base. If I don’t have the level of expertise to answer a question, I will refer them to the appropriate office or agency that can provide more in-depth support. Sometimes my role is just to be a listening ear, particularly when I’m helping a widow or widower.” 
USCG Retiree Services
The Coast Guard doesn’t currently have a network of offices to support its approximately 65,000 retirees, but work is underway to create a Coast Guard Retiree Services Program. 
“Coast Guard retirees are eligible to access retiree services at DoD installations,” explains Shipmate PNC Vince Patton (Branch 181, Arlington, Virginia), the 8th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard and co-chair of the Commandant of the Coast Guard National Retiree Council. “DoD RAOs do what they do very well, so the mentality has been that the Coast Guard didn’t really need to develop an overlapping infrastructure of its own. Unfortunately, there are sizable USCG retiree populations in areas where there isn’t a DoD installation — like Kodiak, Alaska, and San Pedro, Calif., for example.”
The Commandant of the Coast Guard National Retiree Council (CCGNRC) provides the “National Retiree Help Desk (NRHD), a national telephone and e-mail hotline for Coast Guard retirees who have questions or need help,” continues Patton. “It’s staffed by volunteers nationwide and, if a caller from the St. Louis area, for example, needs assistance, his call can be connected with someone in the St. Louis area who’s well positioned to help. It’s accessible 24/7 and all USCG retirees or their family members are encouraged to contact the NRHD by voicemail: 202-475-5381 or 1-866-664-6245 or by e-mail at NRHDesk@gmail.com if they have questions or problems that are not otherwise being addressed or resolved.” 
The Coast Guard is in the process of creating its Retiree Services Program that will consist of Retiree Services Offices (RSOs) at 14 or 15 Coast Guard bases, including training bases like Cape May, N.J., and Petaluma, Calif, and other locations, such as Seattle, Los Angeles and New York City, where there is no support structure for retirees. These RSOs will be staffed by volunteers and overseen by USCG personnel, primarily the base commander. There will also be supporting infrastructure at USCG Headquarters to support the RSOs. 
“We’re in the process of identifying what services are needed, who will do what and distinguishing volunteers willing to support the RSO mission. We hope to have offices up and running by the end of FY 2013,” says Patton. “The good news is that we don’t need to reinvent the wheel on this. Many installations are already providing some services to retirees, but we didn’t have anything on paper. There was no requirement and no continuity between bases. This program will provide that continuity and ensure all retirees can access the services they need. And we’ll absolutely have a reciprocal agreement to offer support to DoD retirees.” 
Retiree Councils
The Coast Guard’s National Retiree Council has served as a de facto RAO/RSO for Coast Guard retirees and provides a conduit for input and recommendations to the Commandant, says Patton. The CCGNRC is divided into 13 regional councils, with representatives available to hear retirees’ concerns. (A list of representatives and contact information is available at www.uscg.mil/retiree/Contacts.asp) 
The CCGNRC meets annually in Washington, D.C., to discuss issues that affect the Coast Guard retired community and makes recommendations for resolving them to the Commandant. News about the Council’s activities are published in The Coast Guard/NOAA Retirees’ Newsletter, published by the service’s Pay and Personnel Center.
Like the Coast Guard, the Navy and Marine Corps also have a retiree council that meets once a year. A joint venture sponsored by the Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV), the council consists of 25 retired officers and enlisted personnel from both the Navy and Marine Corps, representing retirees here in the U.S., as well as overseas. 
“Because retirees live worldwide, it’s a priority for the Council to represent a broad variety of geographic regions,” explains Annanias Rose, a retired sergeant major who’s currently serving his third year on the SECNAV Retiree Council. “A retiree living overseas or in a rural area may have different concerns than someone living in a major metropolitan area or near a military installation. This is particularly true with healthcare matters.”
If Navy or Marine Corps retirees have concerns, they should contact their regional council representative, listed in Shift Colors and Semper Fidelis, the Navy and Marine Corps retiree publications, respectively. “Each regional rep tries to find local solutions,” explains Rose, “however, if that’s not possible, the matter is forwarded to one of the four Council committees: Volunteerism, Compensation, Medical or Outreach. If the appropriate committee can’t find resolution, they will continue to work it and bring it up when the Council convenes in Washington, D.C., for its annual meeting, which will be held in August of this year.” 
Council members traditionally serve for a three-year term and retirees are invited annually to apply for a position (when positions are available) on the Council. Announcements of openings are published in Semper Fidelis and Shift Colors, where applicants are directed to submit their applications to Navy Personnel Command or the Corps’ Manpower and Reserve Affairs Branch, which then makes recommendations to the Secretary of the Navy. Members are selected on the basis of their qualifications and experience to represent their respective geographic regions. 
“One of the Council’s primary goals, and frankly one of our biggest challenges, is to ensure more regional representation. We seek to have more paid employees or volunteers to run the regional offices and oversee local RAOs so we can better serve our retirees. It’s also important to ensure all appropriate leadership is aware of the Council’s duties and responsibilities,” emphasizes Rose. “We strive to work with military leadership in attaining their goals of providing excellent service to their retiree community. We are determined in trying to ensure retirees get the services and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.”
Making sure that happens is what motivates Rose. “It’s good to be a part of something that you know is worthwhile,” he says. “We take pride in serving those who’ve served and we work to make sure benefits are in place now for those retirees. Moreover we serve as advocates to ensure they’ll be in place for the entire retiree community in the future.”
Funding and Other Challenges
Like all federal agencies, the organizations that support retired activities have been affected by the current budget situation. The number and frequency of educational seminars has declined and training opportunities have been trimmed. And although the lack of funding has made it more difficult to train volunteers and provide services to retirees, it hasn’t been impossible. 
“Part of our job is to manage the funding for RAOs. If an RAO wants to sponsor a seminar or a Retiree Day event, for example, they may ask their local command for funding to produce flyers or other promotional materials. If the command can’t support the request, they can come to us,” explains McCausland. “We work with the command and look at the budget to see if we can’t help the command in their support of the RAO.”
In spite of tight budgets and the recent sequester, many commands are continuing to support RAO efforts. “In some cases the command can’t fund a seminar because they can’t afford to pay support personnel the overtime involved with a weekend event,” he continues. “But some commands are finding ways to still have weekend seminars for retirees. We’re also working to leverage technology to support our RAOs and our retirees. We haven’t been able to travel to local sites for training this year, so we’ve updated our Survivor’s Guide and Quick Reference Checklist for Survivors and placed them on the web for easy access. [See link below.] We’ve also updated and included links to many other services and tools that allow retirees, families and RAOs to get answers and take care of their issues quickly and on their own schedule. We also hope to set money aside to update our information technology equipment and capabilities. Our RAO volunteers are working with the oldest computers and, since much of their work is done online, it really is a hindrance.”
Reaching retirees of all ages is also a challenge, says Bennett. “We used to host retiree get-togethers, where we’d have guest speakers talk about veterans’ benefits, TRICARE and legal matters. These events also provided social and networking opportunities, but events like those have gone away — partly because of funding and partly because of scheduling conflicts. Many younger retirees are working in the civilian workplace and aren’t available for this kind of seminar during the week. And they also want to spend time with their families in the evenings and weekends. Scheduling events in the evenings also presents a challenge for older retirees who may have difficulty driving in the dark. We’re currently exploring ways to reach younger retirees and provide information about caring for older parents and children with special needs.”
“Our RAO services are really being underutilized by the younger generation of retirees,” echoes Goosby. “You don’t have to be in your 70s or 80s to get help at an RAO. We have a lot of resources for those who have recently retired or are about to retire, such as information about the Survivor Benefit Program, searching for civilian jobs and available services on the installation. We’re also working to be relevant to our younger service members who’ve been medically retired due to war injuries.”
“Your military ID card is the key to everything,” adds Bennett. “If you have an ID card, you can use pretty much every service on base, including those at the RAO and Family Support Center, the movie theater, the bowling alley, the veterinarian, legal services and a lot of others.”
McCausland gives high praise to RAO volunteers who are going the extra mile to serve retirees regardless of the challenges. Since Brunswick Naval Air Station closed in 2011, for example, the RAO volunteers have made sure their efforts had a home elsewhere. 
“Actually we’ve had several homes,” chuckles Loveless. “Although the base closed, there’s still a great need for retiree services in our area. We’ve moved from space to space and we’re currently an auxiliary of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. While we used to have seven volunteers, our operation is currently two volunteers working out of our homes. We’re working on a possible arrangement with the Army National Guard to set up shop at their facility or other space on the former base, but it’s not definite.” 
Valuable Volunteers
Although Navy and Marine Corps retiree services must adhere to basic SECNAV instructions, the level and breadth of service that any RAO can provide is really dependent on the expertise of its staff, says Loveless, who has been an RAO volunteer for more than 20 years and is also a certified Veterans Service Officer. And more volunteers are always needed.
“When I retired, I was told to go forth without any expectations of assistance from the Navy. Today’s retirees and their spouses attend pre-retirement seminars and get some really useful information, but things change. If you attended that seminar five or 10 years ago, there’s probably a lot of new information you don’t have. Retiree Activities Days are a good way to keep up to date.
“If you don’t stay current on the changes, you aren’t up to date on what benefits are available to you,” continues Loveless. “For example, we just recently learned that, as of this past April, a survivor must submit a copy of his/her Social Security card along with the paperwork to start receiving their Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuity. It’s a new step in the process and, without it, their claim will be delayed. Many of these folks are in their 70s and 80s and can’t find their original card, so we help them secure a new one.”
Questions on pay and benefits are also hot topics for retirees, particularly around tax time. The Coast Guard’s Help Desk currently gets an average of 20 to 30 calls a month, but that jumps to about 70 calls per month in March, most of which are related to tax filings. The Brunswick area RAO experiences a similar increase. 
“Between March 15 and April 15, our call load increases, mostly with tax-related questions. A lot of folks want to know why they haven’t received their 1099-R and our first question to them is, ‘Have you moved?’ Often it’s just a simple matter of contacting the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) and advising them of a new address.” 
Help Wanted
“Training is really handled at the installation level, usually by more experienced volunteers training newer ones,” says McCausland. As a result, it’s more important than ever to maintain a pool of trained volunteers, with the corporate knowledge being passed along in the process.
“As the Coast Guard establishes its own network of RSOs, its Help Desk will still provide referral services,” says Patton. “We’ll still need volunteers to man the phone line 24/7, as well as volunteers to man the RSO facilities. The Help Desk currently operates with only about 20 volunteers. We’d like to get that up to 50 or 100 volunteers as the program grows.”
“Volunteers are always welcome,” says Bennett. “We can always use the help and are always happy to offer opportunities to teach our volunteers new skills.”
Volunteers are the lifeblood of the RAO/RSO program and act independently to get the job done. Goosby praises local RAO volunteers in the Navy’s Southwest Region for their dedication. 
“The policy in our region is that the retiree will be served, regardless of the expertise that may be available at the local RAO. If the local volunteers don’t have the necessary expertise, they know there are other sources of support for that retiree. I hear very few complaints in my capacity as Southwest Regional coordinator. Our RAOs are really good and don’t need a lot of direction. They know what needs to be done and they do it. By the time I hear about a problem, it’s usually been handled and isn’t really a challenge anymore.”
Most RAOs will go the extra mile to help a retiree in need. The Brunswick RAO, for example, doesn’t wait for retirees or family members to come to them; they have an outreach program to connect with widows and widowers who may need their help. 
“We scour newspapers in Maine and Vermont to see if any Navy veterans have passed away,” says Loveless, “and then we contact the family, provide a checklist and offer our assistance in handling the paperwork. We walk them through each of the necessary forms and offer to help in any way we can. It’s also important to note that a retiree from any branch of service can use an RAO/RSO at any installation.”
Loveless sees this part of his work to be the most important and most challenging, but it’s also the most rewarding. “We try to contact widows and widowers within two or three days of the death. It’s particularly important if the retiree passed away before the 15th of the month, so we can help the family prevent any overpayment of retired pay that may have to be returned to the government. Besides the emotional aspect of their loss, it’s also heart-wrenching when some of them learn that the money they’ll receive isn’t going to support their lifestyle,” he explains. “That’s when financial counseling comes in or we refer them to someone who can assist them with their financial needs.” 
A Worthy Endeavor
Helping survivors is also what Loveless likes most about his volunteer duties. “About 99 percent of our work involves helping widows. They are so grateful for our call and often tell us they didn’t have any idea where to go or what to do after their husband’s death. It’s very gratifying to be able to offer them our services, at no charge, and to hear how grateful they are to know we’re here.” 
“The widows and widowers we serve are going through a very difficult time in their lives,” echoes Bennett, “but it feels good knowing I’m able to make a positive impact. If I’ve been able to make that time a little easier to handle, I know I’ve done well.” 
“It’s amazing how dedicated our RAO volunteers are,” commends McCausland. “They spend their time and energy, every day, to help others. They take their responsibilities personally and will do anything to help a retiree, survivor or family member. They genuinely believe in what they’re doing. They believe in taking care of their own.”
Contacts
Navy Retired Activities Branch
1-866-U-ASK-NPC (1-866-827-5672)
MILL_RetiredActivities@navy.mil
www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/support/retired_activities/Pages/default.aspx

The Marine Corps Retiree Affairs Office
1-800-336-4649 (Select Option #0)
smb.manpower.mmsr6@nmci.usmc.mil
www.usmc-mccs.org/retiree/

Coast Guard National Retiree Help Desk
202-475-5381 or 1-866-664-6245
NRHDesk@gmail.com
www.uscg.mil/retiree

______________________________________________________
Lauren Armstrong is the Communications Director and an Auxiliary Member at Large. She can be reached at lauren@fra.org.
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Taps 
Ahumada, Feliciano, PRC, USN	261
Allen, Robert L, ADCS(AC), USN	163

Bagley, Steven R., CPL, USMC	299
Bailen, Bruce J, HMC, USN	042
Baisch, Fred H., YNC(SS), USN	147
Basham, Thomas R, ACCM, USNR	289
Battles, Eugene R, EMCM, USN	060
Beard, George H, AEC, USN	264
Beck, William H, MNC, USN	MAL
Becker, John A, ICCS, USN	175
Belen, Jovencio S, SKC, USN	101
Bell, Donald E, CSCS, USN	091
Bibber, Phillip H, MM1, USN	MAL
Blanchette, Robert L, PO1, USN	289
Boehner, Donald G, BT1, USN	MAL
Bozan, John F, AKCS, USN	MAL
Bret, Robert, LCDR, USN	263
Broton, Chester F, LCDR, USN	050
Bruder, Howard A, AC1, USN	053
Buell, John D, TMC, USN	029
Burnette, Billy C, YNC, USN	041

Cachelin, Charles E, FTMC, USN	008
Caldwell, Donald C, AD1, USN	MAL
Campbell, Paul G, GYSGT, USMC	208
Chastain, Claud R, ATCM, USN	101
Cotter, William T, SKC, USN	248
Cristobal, Melchor S, SDC, USN	084

Darnell, Roland S, RMC, USN	159
De Guzman, Julio, MSC, USN	084
Donovan, John F, HMC, USN	253
Drake, James L., CPL, USMC	170
Duignan, Thomas J., 024
Dwyer, Charles E, QMC, USN	276

Farrar, Malone H, ADC, USN	MAL
Fisher, Leonard A, QMC, USN	188
Fisher, Martin R, CDR, USN	024
Fowlow, Richard A, YN1, USN	050

Gary, Thomas L, AMHC, USN	290
Gates, Eugene P, CTCS, USN	MAL
Gibson, Howard C, SKCM, USN	091
Gibson, Robert, AOC, USN	274

Hagen, Walter W, BUCS, USN	120
Hanrahan, Thomas, AE1, USN	MAL
Harame, Christopher H, BUC, USN	MAL
Harney, John E, ET1, USN	090
Heckhaus, Richard, LT, USN	024
Hibdon, Donald, ABCM, USN	091
Hicks, William W., DK2, USNR	MAL
Hinson, William E, SKCM, USN	MAL
Hiser, Richard, HMC, USN	120
Horner, George, CDR, USN	MAL
Hudson, Wilbert E, MSC, USN	187
Hughes, Virgis, AD1, USN	091
Hyde, Robert L, EO1, USN	105

Isham, Billie G, CS1, USN	009

James, Price E, AMHC, USN	MAL
Johnson, John H, MMC, USN	MAL
Jones, Lloyd, SN, USN	269

Kargol, Raymond C, COL, USMC	208
Kelly, David L, DPC, USN	MAL
Kotze, Albert G, ETCM, USN	MAL
Kwiatkowski, Walter, MS2, USN	023

Lamy, Robert, OSCM, USN	022
Lawson, Orville L, PHCS, USN	313
Lemaster, Maurice V, PH2, USN	300
Lombardo, Ernest F, MSGT, USMC	285
Luchter, Martin, HMCM, USN	091
Lund, Shirley, SCPO, USN	MAL

Maisey, William A, CAPT, USNR	MAL
Margerum, Wilbur, AOC, USN	060
Marquart, Walter D., ADC, USNR	118
McCool, James D, RMC, USN	MAL
McLaughlin, Hugh, SN, USN	124
Merkowsky, Andrew J, CDR, USNR	MAL
Miller, Emmett Don, ENC(SS), USN	109
Million, Benjamin J, OS1, USN	MAL
Mueller, James M, ADJ1, USN	124
Musgrave Weatherford, Jack, 
CWO2, USMCG	299
Mynes, William H, HTC, USN	040

Olaes, Guillermo A, SKC, USN	302

Petteruti, Americo, SK1, USN	338
Pierone, Christie, BTCS, USN	230
Pierre, Alphonse, CSC, USN	192
Pile, Bernard E, RDCM(SS), USN	342

Radleigh, Felix P., AMM2, USN	091
Rasmussen, Donald C, 1st SGT, 
USMC	MAL
Reider, James H, POCS, USN	MAL
Rich, Victor A., USN	299
Roane, Stuart W, MS1(SS), USN	269
Rodgers, Dennis, MS, USNR	MAL
Rose, Lavonne E, AWC, USN	091
Rowe, Horace E, BMC, USN	MAL
Rust, Jene A, SKC, USN	MAL

Sanback, Richard L, ETC, USN	022
Sapp, Kells J, GMC, USN	MAL
Shelby, Joseph E, ACCS, USN	MAL
Sherman, Leander R, CS1, USN	072
Singer, Frederick D., CAPT, USMC	024
Smith, Harvey H, AVCM, USN	091
Smith, Luther, MSCS, USN	060
Stier, Larry C, MSGT, USMC	MAL
Swank, Alvin J, ASE2, USN	MAL

Toon, John E, GYSGT, USMC	175
Travis, Donald E, MMC, USN	245
Treat, Glenn H, AKCS, USN	163
Trevino, Julius M., USMC	094
Troup, Thomas E, SMC, USN	223

Umphress, Monte C, ADC, USN	101
Ustick, Alexander P, MS2, USN	026

Vannice, James R, CDR, USN	097

Wagner, Michael, MUCS, USN	024
Warren, Clarence E., SCPO, USN	MAL
Wilfong, Earl B, CTO1, USN	MAL
Wilkerson, Rawleigh W, ABFC, USN	289
Wilson, Arthur J, AEC, USN	091
Wonderling, John F, AC1, USN	MAL
Wood, Samuel J, ADRC, USN	073

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Reunions 
HS-85
November 15–17, 2013, San Diego, California. Contact Rob Blickle, hs85reunion@gmail.com.
Mine Division 113 Vietnam
September 19–22, 2013, Branson, Missouri. Contact Dick Schreifels, 247 14th Ave. So., South St. Paul, MN 55075-2127, 651-455-1876, MineDiv113Reunion@msn.com.
National Chief Petty Officers’ Association (Navy and Coast Guard)
October 2–5, 2013, Nashville, Tennessee. Contact AZC Jerry Sweeney, 830-480-8070, jerrylsweeney@gmail.com.
USS Agawam (AOG-6)
October 7–10, 2013, Springfield, Illinois. Contact Dick Cypher, 405-359-1513, DCy47@aol.com.
USS Arnold J. Isbell (DD-869)
September 12–15, 2013, San Francisco, Calif. Contact Barry Dahlberg, 708-203-1445, evba@ameritech.com.
USS Davis (DD-937)
October 3–5, 2013, S. Portland, Maine. Contact Pete Lennon, 5 Skyline Dr., Plainville, CT 06062-2612, 860-747-8761, ptlii37@aol.com.
USS Franklin D Roosevelt (CV-42)/USS Midway (CV-41)
August 20 –25, 2013, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Contact Al Wedemeyer, PO Box 314, Hebron, KY 41048-0314, 859-689-7001.
USS Hanson (DD/DDR-832)
September 19 –22, 2013, Savannah, Georgia. Contact Roy Ridderbusch, 425-742-6591, rrridder@msn.com.
USS James K. Polk (SSBN/SSN-645)
October 3–6, 2013, Myrtle Beach, SC. Contact Irv Barlin, 845-592-1066, Reunion2013@ussjameskpolk.com.
USS Joseph Strauss (DDG-16)
October 7–11, 2013, Galveston, Texas. Contact Bart Bartholomew, 2448 Ellington Rd., Gerry, NY 14740, 716-985-4273, obarth289@windstream.net.
USS McCloy (DE/FF-1038) All Crews
September 20–22, 2013, Cincinnati, Ohio. Contact Terry Coleman, 407-683-7611, oneseahawk@gmail.com.
USS Towers (DDG-9)
September 10–15, 2013, Charleston, South Carolina. Contact Raymond Wong, 1634 38th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122, 415-566-7285, usstowersddg9@pacbell.net.
USS Westchester County (LST-1167)
September 5–8, 2013, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Contact Al Wittich, 253-922-9357, LST-ENC@comcast.net.
West Coast Drill Instructor Association
September 5–8, 2013, MCRD San Diego, California. Contact Gregg Stoner, 619-884-9047, greggstoner22@aol.com.

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.
FRA Headquarters Can Help with Your Reunion
Announcing your reunion in FRA Today is a great way to let shipmates know when and where the crew is going to muster. In addition to the Reunions listing published here each month, reunion notices are also posted online at www.fra.org. 
Shipmates can post their reunion by logging in at www.fra.org and visiting the Reunions page, calling Teresa Wiener at 1-800-372-1924 (extension 108), e-mailing their reunion details to Teresa@fra.org, or by sending a letter with the particulars to FRA Reunions, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314. (FRA membership entitles shipmates to publish one reunion notice per year at no charge. Additional reunions can be posted for a $35 fee, and non-members may also promote reunions at that rate.)
As part of FRA’s outreach and education programs, Headquarters can also provide speakers and informational literature at no charge to Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard reunion groups. Bob Washington, FRA’s Outreach Manager, will be happy to coordinate a speaker who can educate reunion attendees about legislative issues that affect military retirees and veterans, and help them understand how to best utilize their military and veterans’ benefits. 
Reunions are also a great place to showcase the benefits of FRA membership and invite new members to become a part of FRA’s important work. Encouraging others to become FRA shipmates not only strengthens the Association and its legislative advocacy efforts, it also helps you earn recognition as an FRA recruiter. FRA National Headquarters can supply copies of FRA Today, literature about our legislative advocacy efforts, tabletop displays and other promotional materials for your reunion or other events. 
To request a speaker, literature or more information, contact Bob at bobw@fra.org or 1-800-372-1924 
(extension 113).

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Finance Officer Position Open at NHQ
FRA is seeking candidates for the position of Finance Officer (FO) at National Headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia. The FO is responsible for management of all fiscal activities, including the annual budget, internal controls, membership dues and other revenue sources, disbursements, contracts and vendor relationships. Incumbent serves as the Association’s treasurer and is responsible for all banking and investment accounts, preparation of financial statements and reports, compliance with Association’s policy guidelines, insurance requirements and coordination of annual audit. The FO also supervises senior accountant and assistant, and manages payroll, staff 401(k) plan and other benefits. 
A degree in finance or accounting or equivalent qualification and a minimum of seven years financial management experience is required. A working knowledge of accounting laws, practices and procedures, general office applications and specialized accounting software (MAS 90 and FRx) is preferred. CPA credential and military experience a plus. Excellent benefits package. Candidates should forward their resume and cover letter (to include salary requirements) to FRA Finance Officer Search, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 by July 12, 2013, or fax same to 703-549-6610, or e-mail to fra@fra.org. No phone calls please.

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Looking for…
NAS Corpus Christi WAVES 
Looking for WAVES who worked at the Chaplains Office or Enlisted Personnel at NAS, Corpus Christi, Texas, from Sept 1962 to July 1964. Contact Tony Brown at chiefbrown84@sbcglobal.net
YN1 Jon Blue, EPDOPAC, San Diego, California
YNCM Donnald Lassiter, EPDOPAC, San Diego, California
YNCS/YNCM Dennis R. Meester, COMICEDEFOR, Iceland
EN1 E. A. Elter, Company 94 commander at Great Lakes, 1957
Anyone from Company 94 at Great Lakes 1957
Please contact Roy V. Williams, 233 Bayo-Boy Ln, Roseboro, NC 28382-7116, (home) 910-564-6964, or (cell) 910-990-9236.
AT2 Gary Van Aller AT2 and AO2 Charles Jennings
Both were attached to VP-2 based at Whidbey Island, Washington, and flew with Crew 10 in 1962. Contact Rick “Ski” Dombrowski at rmdeez@aol.com to reconnect with squadron mates.
LTJG Cherry Shaw
He was supply officer on USS Dyess (DD-880), on the east coast during the late 1950s. Please contact Roman Kiefer at 313 W 23rd St, Ferdinand, IN 47532 or 812-367-0680.
BMCS Donald (Donnie) Wilson (Ret.), wife Carol
His last known location was in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1969. Please contact F. Douglas Tranzor at 916-296-5787 or Douglas@DouglasTranzor.com.
USS Coral Sea Cruise Book 
For cruise of 1973 to West Pac. Captain Peck was the CO for this cruise. Will pay shipping/mailing costs. Please contact Gregg Womeldorff at g_womeldorff@earthlink.net or 303-688-0637.
Yeomen Caldwell and Lewis
Both served on staff to Vice Adm Glynn R. Donaho in Washington, D.C., 1963–1964. I was VADM Donaho’s driver, Qtrs K, Arlington, Va.) Please contact SN Bob McFadden at xremcf@gmail.com.
R.V. Braga
Looking for the owner of a bracelet found on the beach near Ft. Bragg that says “R.V. Braga, 490856, 3rd Para Btln, USMC.” Contact Bobby Greene at BEG50@msn.com or 904-262-1663. 
Jack Ollom, USN (Ret.)
I only knew him as Jack and don’t know his real first name. We served together in Adak, Alaska, 1965–1966 time frame, and I believe he retired as E-7. Please contact Edward J. Witt, Jr. at wittej9220@comcast.net.
John Rusch or John Rush 
Director of the Naval Air Training Command Choir in 1960–1961. He was probably assigned to a Public Affairs department of the Naval Air Training Command in Pensacola, Florida. Please contact LCDR John M Hagen, USN (Ret.) at v1rotate@flash.net.
RMC Jeff Horvath
We served together in 6th Fleet Staff, Gaeta, Italy, 1980–1982. Please contact John Dixon at chiefjd@comcast.net.
TD2 Kathy Lair
She was stationed at Pensacola, Florida, in 1969. Please contact TD1 John Lillie (Ret.) at 7435 Birchbark Dr., Santa Rosa, CA 95409 or 707-537-8377. 
West Coast Drill Instructor Association
Chapter wants to hear from present and former drill instructors interested in becoming members. No dues or fees. Contact SgtMaj Bobby Woods, USMC (Ret.) at 760-215-9564 or visit www.westcoastdi.org for more information. 
CPO Reggie Cauble (and wife, Sue)
We were friends at NAS Barbers Point, Hawaii. Contact Glenn Crouch at 439 Country Road 180, Van Vlect, TX 77482-6189 or call 979-479-0199 (cell) or 979-245-0329 (home). 
USS Paul Revere (APA-248/LPA-248) Cruise Books
WestPacs during time frame of 
1967–1969. Contact Les Allen at 
llallen99@juno.com.

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.
Looking for Lost Shipmates? FRA can help!

FRA Today’s “Looking for …” column is published on a space available basis and has been successful in reuniting many shipmates. Notices must be submitted in writing to fratoday@fra.org or you can mail your request to FRA, Looking for, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314.
FRA’s Facebook page is also a great place to find old friends, both military and civilian. Like FRA at www.fra.org/fb and post your request there. 
Other Resources:
TogetherWeServed (TWS): FRA has an ongoing partnership with TWS, a website where military veterans can reconnect. Visit navy.togetherweserved.com, marines.togetherweserved.com or coastguard.togetherweserved.com to look for old buddies. (Some TWS services are available free of charge; other require an annual paid membership.)
Military.com: Visit www.military.com/buddy-finder to search for former shipmates.
National Archives: Another great resource is www.archives.gov/veterans/locate-service-members.html
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FRA Essay Contest 
Winning Essay
By Meredith Gress
Sponsored by Branch 70, Poway, California 

I turned 18 this year on October 22nd, and that meant that I could vote. I began paying close attention to the election, tuned into debates, and studied the candidates and propositions. I took this new responsibility seriously, and the election became very important to me. I did my research, proudly declared which candidate I was supporting on social media websites, and waited for November 6th.
Strolling into the polls that morning I felt like a fully fledged American citizen. I was excited to take part in the great American tradition of electing the president, and was confident in all of my selections. I dutifully bubbled in my ballot, slid it in the box, wore my “I voted” sticker, and headed off to school. But that night as I tuned in to watch the results, I watched in horror as nearly everyone and everything I voted for, lost. I was a loser, a true loser, and a devastated voter. 
I had done my research, taken a stance, cast my ballot, but none of it paid off. What was my one vote to the huge sea of votes? The results would not have changed had I not voted! Was it all just so I could wear the “I voted” sticker to school? Was it all for nothing?
No. My vote did matter — and it was worth more than a sticker. My vote doesn’t mean my opinions are going to win, it means they have a chance to be heard. I voted for the men that died for me to have that right. I voted for the women before me who were denied it. I voted for the people who don’t have the chance to vote. I voted for myself, because I care who governs me, and how it’s done. I voted because I don’t belong to a country who expects its citizenry to slavishly submit to authority. My vote is my voice. This year, I lost, but that doesn’t mean my vote didn’t matter. It mattered to me, and to all those before me who made sure I had it. 

2012–2013 FRA AMERICANISM ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS
OVERALL WINNER	
Meredith Gress, Branch 70, Southwest Region
FIRST PLACE WINNERS
7th Grade:  	Jarod Hoffman, Branch 99, East Coast Region
8th Grade:  	Jadidiah Jenkens, Branch 44, Southeast Region
9th Grade:  	Maxwell Masterson, Branch 293, East Coast Region
10th Grade:	Lila Vo, Branch 289, Southwest Region
11th Grade:	Erin Ashley Gray-Bryant, Branch 99, East Coast Region
12th Grade:  Meredith Gress, Branch 70, Southwest Region

SECOND PLACE WINNERS
7th Grade:	Elizabeth Moody, Branch 132, New England Region	
8th Grade: 	Maddie Meyer, Branch 267, North Central Region
9th Grade:	Michael Frank, Branch 22, Southeast Region
10th Grade:	Paige Pennington, Branch 40, East Coast Region
11th Grade:	Benjamin Phillip Palmer, Branch 214, Northeast Region
12th Grade:	Richard Deane Ramunno, Branch 244, West Coast Region
THIRD PLACE WINNERS
7th Grade:	Giscelle Rosario, Branch 46, Northwest Region
8th Grade:	Adwoa Debrah, Branch 182, East Coast Region
9th Grade:	Joseph Anand, Branch 17, North Central Region
10th Grade:	Namankita Rana, Branch 57, Northeast Region
11th Grade:	Ellie L. Feis, Branch 275, West Coast Region
12th Grade:	Yeraldin Pineda, Branch 201, South Central Region         
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News from the Branches 
BRANCH 71  Riverhead, New york
Shipmates gather to bid farewell to PRPNE Gottfried Mahler as his ashes were buried at sea near Fire Island, where he was the last lighthouse keeper for the Coast Guard. Shipmates RVPNE James Brown, Branch 71 President Anthony Merola, Paul Chase and Richard Sprague stand behind Marilyn Mahler, Gottfried’s widow after 68 years of marriage. The U.S. Coast Guard provided a chaplain and honor guard.

BRANCH 267  St. Louis, Missouri
Shipmates traveled to St. Agnes School (Bloomsdale, Mo.) to recognize participants in the FRA Essay Contest. All students received certificates and pictured are students who had winning essays:  (back row, l to r) Logan Schwent, RPNC John Partin, Branch President Jerry Piva, Branch Finance Officer Dale Ferrington, (front row, l to r) Abby Klahs, Brendan Meyer, Madeline Meyer (first place winner at Branch and Regional levels for 8th grade), Ryan Palmer and Briley Vessell.

BRANCH 182  Bethesda, Maryland 
The branch is actively engaged in a number of youth-oriented activities, including the recognition of outstanding cadets from the HMCM William R. Charette Sea Cadet Battalion. Shown is Branch President Keith Kaider presenting awards to Cadet Petty Officer 2nd Class Thomas Moore and Cadet Senior Chief Petty Officer Shanelle Wint.

BRANCH 9  San Diego, California
PRPSW/RTSW Vic Miranda (right) was installed as branch president for 2013–2014. Shipmate Vic is 92 years young, a 66-year member of FRA and this is his third term as the branch’s senior leader. PNP Jim Eblen (left) was the installing officer and PNP Dick Smith was also present.

BRANCH 298  Grand Rapids, Michigan
Branch President and Americanism-Patriotism Essay Chair Rosemary Posekany presents the essay award for branch first place and NC Region third place to 12th-grader Cody Hayward. Cody has been accepted to prestigious Grand Valley State University and will major in psychology.

BRANCH 20  Groton, Connecticutt
Shipmate Edwin (Bud) Atkins (left) was congratulated for his 50 years of continuous FRA membership by Branch President Herb Horne (center) and Branch Secretary PNP George Hyland.

BRANCH 260  Golden Valley, Arizona
Shipmates posed at the entrance of the WWII Submarine Veterans’ Memorial being built by Branch President Don Johnson (kneeling, 4th from left). The memorial is being funded by donations from various organizations, which are welcome from all.

BRANCH 42  Quonset Point, Rhode island
During the New England Mid-Year Convention, RPNEng Paul Loveless Jr. (left) presented Shipmate Kenneth Almon (center) with his 50-year certificate, pin and membership card. Branch 42 President Ken Senker (right) looks on.

BRANCH 269  Goose Creek, South carolina
Shipmate Rick Sparger (right) presents World War II Submarine Veteran, Shipmate Marshall “Pappy” Henderson (left), his 35-year membership pin and certificate. Shipmate Henderson has maintained continuous membership since December 1976.

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. 

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Auxiliary of the FRA News 

A Message from Regional President Northeast Sara Piacentino
 
I would like to thank the units of the Northeast Region for giving me the opportunity to serve you once again as the Regional President. 
Our region is small with only three units. I keep in touch by e-mail, phone calls and newsletters, they are doing well. Regional Vice President Sue Hershberger also keeps in touch with the units in our region and we offer support and encouragement whenever possible. 
The units in the Northeast Region volunteer at local hospitals, museums and historical societies. One unit sponsors a Boy Scout Troop. Some work in booths, coordinate games and sponsor trophies at car shows and community events. Units also help at churches to collect food and clothing for the needy in their area. The units also give food gift certificates to local families for the holidays and also give gifts to the children at Christmas time. 
One unit presents a wreath at Veterans Cemetery on Memorial Day and goes to the services on Veterans Day. Another unit marches in the Fourth of July parade proudly carrying their unit colors. They go to services when Branch members have passed away and help family with funeral arrangements. 
We are very proud of our members who give of their time and energy to these worthwhile projects. I encourage each unit to gain new members and keep the ones they have. Many units have found success by calling and sending reminders to members who are on the past-due list. 
I hope to see everyone at the National Convention in Chattanooga, Tennessee, October 15 through 19, 2013. 
To those who have lost a loved one, may your heart mend with time, love and support of family and friends. To those celebrating a birthday and anniversary, may you have many more. 

Karen Snee is the editor of LA FRA News and the FRA Today Liaison
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