FRAtoday June  2019
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sHIPMATE FORUM
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AUXILIARY OF THE FRA32
FINANCE MATTERS34

COMMUNICATIONS

D-Day
I have a friend who is Army and I am Navy, so you can see where many of our conversations often differ, but all in fun—particularly during football season. One time we were talking about D-Day when he asked, “How many Navy guys had boots on the ground at Normandy?”  To avoid any more discussion, I changed the subject because I was not sure how many sailors were at Normandy. I knew the U.S. Navy played a significant role in Operation Neptune, which supported Operation Overlord, which paved the way for the liberation of Europe. I am sure my friend was talking about the 1st Infantry that hit the beaches as well as the 101st and 82nd U.S. Airborne, who were dropped behind German lines to secure bridges on the right flank of the beaches.

General Dwight Eisenhower was appointed commander of Operation Overlord in January of 1944. In the months before D-Day, the Allies carried out a massive deception operation to make the Germans think the main invasion target was Pas-de-Calais rather than Normandy. Many tactics were used to carry out the deception, including fake equipment; a phantom army commanded by George Patton and supposedly based in England, across from Pas-de-Calais; double agents and fraudulent radio transmissions.

Bad weather caused a 24-hour delay so the assault began just after midnight on June 6, 1944.   Eisenhower told the troops, “You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you.” 

By dawn on June 6, phase one had thousands of troops behind enemy lines. The second phase was the allied amphibious invasions that began at 6:30 a.m. The invasion fleet was made of eight different navies, with 6,939 vessels: 1,213 warships, 4,126 landing ships and landing craft and 736 ancillary craft and 864 merchant vessels.
The Allies overcame light opposition at beaches code-named Gold, Juno and Sword, as did the Americans at Utah Beach. The U.S. forces faced heavy resistance at Omaha Beach with more than 2,000 casualties. By the end of the first day, none of the assault forces had secured their first-day objectives. Allied casualties on June 6 have been estimated at more than 10,000 killed, wounded and missing in action: 6,603 Americans, 2,700 British and 946 Canadians. By June 11, the beaches were fully secured with more than 326,000 troops, 50,000 vehicles and 100,000 tons of equipment at Normandy.

Back to my friend’s question,  there were 195,700 naval personnel involved in D-Day. The Royal Navy provided 112,824 sailors. The Merchant Navy supplied 25,000 men. There were 52,889 American sailors along with another 4,998 sailors from other allied countries.

The D-Day invasion turned the tide against the Nazis and in my opinion was the beginning to the end of the war.   
In Loyalty, Protection & Service,
William Stevenson, Editor-in-Chief

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FROM THE BRIDGE

Memphis Convention: Home of Barbecue, Music and More!
This year, the FRA will host their Annual National Convention in Memphis, Tennessee, from September 22 to September 29.  I hope you will join your Shipmates at the Crowne Plaza Memphis East located at 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd., just 8 miles from the Memphis International Airport. Come explore one of the South’s most famous cities.

Memphis is on the Mississippi River located in the southwest of the state. It is probably most famous for its influence on music such as blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll. Some notable musicians who got a foothold in Memphis are Elvis Presley, B.B. King and Johnny Cash. They all recorded popular albums at the legendary Sun Studio. Other music landmarks include the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum and the Blues Hall.  Everyone has their favorite attraction, but in Memphis the most notable would be Elvis Presley’s Graceland mansion, which was established as a museum in 1982 and sits upon nearly 14 acres that is currently owned by his daughter, Lisa Marie.

The city of Memphis is a vibrant city, full of culture and full of spirit. It has an incredible mixture of small city charm and big city activities. This is what helps make it such an amazing destination to visit. So, if you are visiting for the first time, there is always something new to do.  Here are just a few suggestions to point you in the right direction for the best experiences. 

Best Place for the Blues. Memphis is the home of the blues; beloved for bringing the world people like W.C. Handy, B.B. King and Big Walter Horton. People from across the country make the pilgrimage to hear today’s best blues musicians and sit around the historic stages where the legends got their start.

Best Barbecue. With more than 100 barbecue joints serving up the world’s best dry rub ribs, it is almost impossible to pick the best barbecue in Memphis.  Everyone wants to know where they should go to get the best. In fact, the best Memphis BBQ list is one of the most sought-after guides online. If you want fine dining, then try Corky’s. It is considered to be a favorite for tourists.

Best Things to Do. Memphis has many sites that are historic and of national importance that everyone should see, including the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, Elvis’ home Graceland, Sun Studios, Stax Museum of American Soul, Beale Street, the Memphis Zoo, the Grizzlies, the Peabody Hotel, The Pyramid 
and Mud Island. More can be found online at www.memphistravel.com.

Best Outdoor Activities. To truly appreciate all that Memphis has to offer, you need to get outside and experience the splendor of the South. Try walking; the city is very much a walkable city that has many outdoor experiences. The downtown Memphis Commission Sidewalk Stories offers a series of more than 50 bronze plaques laid in the concrete downtown to tell the city’s colorful history.

Down By the River. At Mud Island River Park, located at 125 N. Front St., you can get an understanding of the Mississippi River’s role and influence over Memphis. You should not miss the free Mud Island Riverwalk experience. The Riverwalk spans five city blocks and is marked with bridges and historic markers to give visitors a perspective on the Mississippi and its people. The riverwalk is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, April through October.

Memphis Stands for Music. If you like music, you will love Memphis. Muddy Waters, Johnny Cash, Aretha Franklin, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley all made their way through Memphis on their way to super stardom. Take a walk down Beale Street and visit the many pubs and clubs scattered throughout the area.

This city has so many places to go and things to experience.  Treat yourself to a small setting with a “KING” size menu of fun.   

In Loyalty, Protection & Service 
NED Thomas J. Snee

Tom is the FRA’s National Executive Director at NEDFRA@fra.org

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sHIPMATE FORUM

Change Name to Sea Services Association 
Mark Anderson’s letter about attracting younger members is quite correct. Any organization must constantly attract new blood or it will not survive. However, achieving that goal is very difficult, and may even be impossible. Today’s old and young have almost nothing in common. We don’t even speak the same language, but today’s young people seem to be well educated in technology and celebrities. Like it or not, there’s a huge divide.
FRA is a bland title with little appeal. It began as an organization for career USN people but is no longer that. My suggestion for increasing membership is to change the name to Sea Services Association and open membership to anybody with an interest in the sea services; Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine and Sea Scouts. We could also include Naval ROTC, Merchant Marine Academy and other maritime schools, etc., and shift emphasis from veteran’s advocacy to sea history and education. We’re overloaded with veteran’s organizations.
BT Davenport, USN (Ret.)

January FRAtoday
I received my monthly magazine yesterday and read it through and through that very night. Three great articles: Service Dogs, USS MIDWAY and the Shipmate Joe Prusacik profile. The three articles were right on target and I am hoping you publish more of the same. I enjoy human interest articles with lots of pictures.
Angelo Coppola, USN (Ret.) former CPO then LCDR

Armed Guard
I enjoyed the Armed Guard article in the April issue of FRAtoday. When I was in the first grade in September of 1942, my father, Lieutenant Junior Grade Wendell Chesser was just entering active duty. After training, he was assigned as gunnery officer on a merchant ship in New York. During his first Atlantic crossing in 1942, his forty-two-ship convoy suffered thirteen losses. 

According to my father, most of the losses were to ships that straggled because of propulsion casualties. The escort ships could not leave the convoy to guard stragglers, making them vulnerable to U-boats. On one occasion, my father’s ship straggled, but they were able to make repairs and rejoin the convoy. It was a frightening time for the crew. 

Later during the war, the Navy developed the escort carrier (CVE) whose aircraft cover greatly reduced merchant ship losses. My father made several more trips, which thanks to the CVE’s, suffered much fewer losses. 
In 1944, my father transferred to the Armed Guard Training Base in Little Creek, Virginia and became a gunnery instructor. Later, he transferred to Pearl Harbor to join other ship pilots—my father had a Master’s License for inland waters, Baltimore to Cape Henry. He and the other pilots were preparing for the planned invasion of Japan when the Japanese surrendered. He made it to Japan after the surrender and piloted American ships in Otaru on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido. He returned home in 1945 in time for Christmas. He was active in the Naval Reserve and retired at the rank of Commander in 1968. 
P.J. Chesser, HMC(SS), USN, (Ret.)
Cumberland County, Tennessee

Distinguished Graduate Chambers
The USS Midway Museum article in the January issue included a recounting of the MIDWAY’s participation in the rescue of Vietnamese families in April 1975 during the evacuation of Saigon. The skipper of MIDWAY was my Naval Academy Class of 1952 classmate, Larry Chambers. When the Bird Dog pilot mentioned in the article asked for permission to land on MIDWAY, Captain Chambers made the  courageous decision to emergency clear the flight deck and ordered all hands to push the “helos” that cluttered the deck overboard, a decision that could have caused him to be court- martialed.
Chambers was the second African-American to graduate from the Naval Academy, the first to command a carrier and the first to attain flag rank, retiring in the rank of rear admiral.  In recognition of his achievements, he was named a Distinguished Graduate of the Naval Academy in 2017.  
James A. Sagerholm, VADM, USN (Ret.) Branch 24
 
Submit Shipmate Forum letters to FRAtoday, 125 N. West Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314. 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 individual 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 AND OFF CAPITOL HILL

NDAA Action will start to Heat up
As FRAtoday goes to press, the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) bills in each chamber of Congress are about to go through the legislative process. They will eventually be merged into one bill and approved by the House and Senate, and then sent to the President to be signed into law or vetoed.  This is supposed to occur before the start of the new fiscal year (FY2016) Oct. 1, 2015. The process was slowed due to the administration’s late submission of a FY2020 proposed budget. The FRA Legislative Team is closely monitoring this process to try to stop any provisions that negatively impact FRA members and their families. Members are urged to subscribe to and read NewsBytes, the weekly legislative newsletter and review issues on the FRA Action Center located on the FRA website.  
 
Retiree and Veterans Issues

DOJ Decision on AOBWN Case Delayed 30 Days
The Supreme Court of the United States issued a 30-day extension to Department of Justice (DOJ) officials who are contemplating an appeal of a lower court ruling (Procopio v Wilkie).  In January, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington D.C. in 9-2 decision extended presumptive VA disability benefits to the so-called Blue Water Navy veterans who served off the coast of Vietnam and who were exposed to toxic chemical defoliants during the Vietnam conflict.

Mr. Procopio is a Blue Water Navy Veteran who never stepped foot on land in Vietnam but was exposed to Agent Orange during his military service off the coast of the Republic of Vietnam. Due to this exposure, he developed medical conditions consistent with other veterans who had served on land, and were exposed to Agent Orange. He argued that he should be entitled to a presumptive category and thereby eligible for disability benefits. The FRA is listed as a “Friend of the Court” by the petitioner Blue Water Navy Veteran, Mr. Procopio. 

Some court observers were surprised by the DOJ request since earlier VA Secretary Robert Wilkie had recommended that DOJ not appeal the decision. In lieu of Wilkie’s recommendation, the Board of Veterans’ Appeals removed a stay that prevented any decisions on Blue Water Navy appeals, a hold that had been in place since October. Many details remain undetermined, including the precise definition of Vietnam’s nautical boundaries and the diseases that will be considered connected to herbicide exposure. The VA has indicated that a decision regarding the addition of bladder cancer, hypertension and other ailments would come in June, 2019.

AOBWN Bill Introduced in Senate
Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand, (N.Y.), and Steve Daines (Mont.) have introduced the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act (S.1195).  The bill clarifies that service members who served off the coast of the Republic of Vietnam during the Vietnam conflict have a presumption for filing disability claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for ailments associated with exposure to the Agent Orange herbicide. The bill also extends the presumption of herbicide exposure for veterans who served on or near the Korean DMZ between Sept. 1, 1967 and Aug. 31, 1971. The legislation provides health care, vocational training, rehabilitation and monetary allowance to a child who was born with spina bifida if at least one of the child’s parents served in Thailand between Jan. 9, 1962 and May 7, 1975. The VA also must determine that at least one of the parents had been exposed to an herbicide agent during that period.

Earlier, the Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Rep. Mark Takano (Calif.) introduced the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act (H.R.299), which is similar to the Senate bill. Last year’s House bill had 335 co-sponsors and passed the House (382-0), only to stall in the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, and was tabled at the end of the session.

The FRA believes Congress should recognize these veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange herbicide and authorize presumptive status for VA disability claims associated with this exposure. Members are urged to use the FRA Action Center to contact their legislators to ask them to support these bills.
 
Bill to Improve VA Mental Health Care Introduced
Sens. Jon Tester (Mont.) and Jerry Moran (Kan.) have introduced the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act (S.785), which will try to expand veterans’ access to high-quality mental health care and help reduce the rate of veteran suicide. Currently, on average, 20 veterans commit suicide each day. The legislation would:
• Increase the VA’s mental health staff to serve more veterans.
• Improve access to mental health care for veterans who live in rural areas.
• Strengthen support and assistance for transitioning service members.
• Study and expand innovative and alternative treatment options. 
• Hold the VA accountable for its mental health care and suicide prevention efforts. 

Members are urged to use the FRA Action Center to ask their Senators to support this legislation. 

Protect Bankrupt Disabled Veterans from Losing Benefits
Sens. Tammy Baldwin (Wis.) and John Cornyn (Texas) have introduced the Honoring American Veterans in Extreme Need (HAVEN-S.679) bill to shield veterans’ disability benefits from debt collectors when a veteran declares bankruptcy.   

Under current law, when a disabled veteran declares bankruptcy debtors can seize their disability benefits because they are considered disposable income. Yet social security benefits are exempt from being included as disposable income. Disability benefits in any form are not taxable and therefore should not be considered disposable income. The legislative sponsors noted that it is unfair veterans may be forced to give up their disability benefits when declaring bankruptcy, while the general population receiving similar benefits from social security do not.    

Sen. Baldwin believes this bill will help veterans with mental health issues by easing their financial burdens. Members are encouraged to weigh in on this issue by contacting their Senators through the FRA Action Center online at: https://www.fra.org/fra/Web/Content/VotervoiceFullInfo.aspx.    

HVAC Chairman Concerned that VA’s IT Could Disrupt Healthcare for some Veterans
House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mark Takano (Calif.) issued the following statement regarding the serious concerns raised about the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Information Technology (IT) solutions:

“The recent U.S. Digital Service (USDS) report on implementation of technology systems to support the Community Care components of the MISSION Act is incredibly alarming. By suggesting that VA’s planned IT solutions are inadequate, and that VA has not given itself enough time to develop a workable system, this report raises real concerns that implementation may be delayed and could even disrupt healthcare for 75,000 veterans every day.

“USDS raises credible concerns that Community Care should have a veteran-centric approach, but despite these critiques, VA appears to be ignoring the problem or at least is unwilling to revisit its approach. Nowhere is this clearer than VA’s intention to formally request a funding transfer to implement the very IT solutions USDS raises concerns about.

“VA’s history of failed IT systems shows that it cannot move forward with this IT implementation without addressing these root problems. The Committee will hold a hearing to demand answers from VA about the status of system development and will scrutinize the funding transfer request in light of these troubling findings.”

The FRA believes congressional oversight of ongoing implementation of the VA technology upgrades is vital to ensuring improvements to the system. The FRA wants to ensure adequate funding for Department of Defense and VA health care resource sharing in delivering seamless, cost effective, quality services to personnel wounded in combat and other veterans and their families. 

American Forces Travel Discounts
Service members, veterans and their families can now receive a military discount if they book their travel through American Forces Travel, which is supported by Priceline. The Department of Defense teamed up with Priceline and created an online travel booking site exclusively for U.S. military members. American Forces Travel is a new Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program that came out of a joint service initiative, which combines the efforts of the five branches of service.  

The following personnel can use the travel booking service:

•	All current Active Duty military (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard).
•	All members of the Reserve components and National Guard.
•	All Retired Military, including those in the Reserves and National Guard who are retirement eligible.
•	All Medal of Honor recipients and 100% disabled veterans.
•	All Department of Defense civilians serving outside the United States, including appropriated funds (APF) employees and non-appropriated funds (NAF) employees.
•	American Red Cross and United Service Organizations (USO) paid-personnel currently serving outside the United States.
•	All eligible family members who are officially sponsored (ID card holder) by patrons in the above categories.

In addition to enhancing the quality of life for the military community, American Forces Travel will help fund MWR programs with commissions made from each booking done online. American Forces Travel is a full-service company that offers hotel, flight, car rental and cruise deals. They also offer bundled or package deals.

For more information you can go to:  https://www.americanforcestravel.com/

Active Duty/Reserve Issues
FRA Recognizes Outstanding USN & USCG Performers
The FRA continued its long-standing tradition of recognizing superior performance, by honoring Sea Service personnel who are standouts in their respective fields. 

FRA’s National President (NP) Bob Washington, National Executive Director Tom Snee, and members of FRA’s headquarters staff participated in several events honoring the Navy’s 2018 Reservists of the Year (ROYs), including a special ceremony at the U.S. Navy Memorial, hosting a luncheon on Capitol Hill, followed by a tour of the Capital Building. NP Washington addressed the awardees during the Recognition Ceremony, thanking their spouses and reserve sailor finalists for their hard work and sacrifices. 

The winner of the Reserve Sailor of the Year Program was, PSC-Select Angelitta E. Baggoo. 
The other finalists were: 
• PS1 (AW) Mary A. Dube,
• EM1 (SW) Christopher T. Harris; 
• MA1 Justing C. Monson; and 
• HM1 Reginald B. Oden.  

NP Washington presented each finalist with an FRA Coin and 2-year FRA Membership. The association has been a supporter of this recognition program since its inception and is proud to continue the tradition of acknowledging excellence. 

In a separate event FRA recognized individual excellence by honoring the Coast Guard’s 2018 Enlisted Persons of the Year (EPOY).  During a ceremony at USCG Headquarters in Washington, D.C., FRA’s National President, Robert Washington recognized Active Duty EPOY, BM3 Jabob R. Blass, USCG Station Port Canaveral, Fla., and Reserve Component EPOY, BM1 Michael A. Gould, USCG Port Security Unit 311, San Pedro, Calif.  Both honorees received FRA Challenge Coins, 2-year membership and a certificate.

The FRA NBOD Visits Pentagon
Due to a scheduling conflict, the National Board of Directors’ (NBOD) April meeting occurred during a week that Congress was in recess. In lieu of visiting Capitol Hill, the NBOD along with the President and Vice President of the FRA Auxiliary visited the Pentagon. The Board met with several Pentagon officials including OPNAV Command Master Chief Richard James who was representing Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Russell Smith. He was out-of-town at the time. 

NBOD members expressed alarm about off-base privatized housing conditions. These conditions include faulty wiring, exposed plumbing, poor water quality, vermin infestations, mold and lead contamination, raw sewage and other toxic exposures. The conditions have had negative health impacts for all residents, many of whom are young children. NBOD Shipmates are also concerned that active duty members are not getting adequate financial education pertaining to investment options under the new Blended Retirement System (BRS). The FRA wants to ensure the Defense Department implements a high-quality education program that assists members under the new retirement system in developing prudent investment strategies. Military spouses should be included as fully as possible in the BRS education program.  

The tour also included a visit to the 9/11 Pentagon memorial to honor victims of the attack on September 11, 2001. 

Marines Name Next SMMC
The nominee for Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps David Berger has announced that Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black will serve as the next (19th) Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (SMMC).

Black is now serving as the Sergeant Major of Manpower and Reserve Affairs. He will replace Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green at a ceremony this summer. Green served 35 years in the Marines including 4 years as SMMC. 

Black originally from Louisville, Ky., is 50 years old and has been the sergeant major for manpower and reserve affairs since 2017. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1988 and he was sent to infantry school at Camp Geiger, North Carolina to be trained as a machine gunner. He has deployed multiple times throughout his career, including in support of Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom.

His awards include the Legion of Merit with gold star, Bronze Star with Combat Distinguishing Device, Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a gold star and a Combat Action Ribbon with two gold stars.

The rank of Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps was authorized in 1970. SMMC is selected by the Commandant of the Marine Corps and typically serves a four-year term, though his service is at the discretion of the Commandant. 

Budget Bill Stalls on House Floor
The FRA is thankful that the administration’s proposed budget provides $750 billion for Defense spending ($34 billion more than the current budget). Thanks also go to the House Budget Committee for voting to lift sequestration spending caps for two years. The House bill (H.R.2021) would provide $733 billion for Defense spending in FY2020.  Unfortunately, different factions in the House could not agree on spending limits and there were not enough votes to pass the measure. The bill was intended to be an opening proposition from House Democrats in budget talks with the White House and Republican-led Senate about spending levels. The Inability of the House to pass a measure to lift sequestration spending caps could be a sign of gridlock in the legislative process. Without legislative changes, more sequestration cuts are scheduled for FY2020 that begins Oct. 1, 2019, potentially placing our national security at risk.

Budget cuts mandated by the Budget Control Act of 2011 (known as sequestration) pose a threat to national security and will substantially impact member pay and benefits. These automatic cuts require that 50 percent of the cuts come from the Defense budget, even though Defense spending makes up only 16 percent of the entire federal budget. The FRA believes the FY2020 Defense budget should provide adequate funding for “benefits and bullets.”  

Members are urged to go to the FRA Action Center to weigh in on this issue.

New Navy CNO and Vice CNO Nominated
The current Chief of Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson is scheduled to step down from his position later this year. Admiral Bill Moran has been nominated by President Trump to become the 32nd Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), if confirmed by the Senate. Moran has been the vice chief of naval operations since May 2016. The CNO is the Navy’s top admiral and is a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The CNO reports directly to the Secretary of the Navy.

Vice Admiral Robert Burke has been nominated to be promoted to a four-star Admiral and assigned as the vice chief of naval operations. If confirmed by the Senate, Burke would take over the Navy’s number two job from Admiral Moran. Burke, a career submarine officer, is currently the Navy’s deputy chief of naval operations for manpower, personnel, training and education.

Senate Subcommittee Urges Coast Guard Pay During any Future Shutdown
The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, Security Subcommittee held an oversight hearing on the proposed U.S. Coast Guard and Maritime FY2020 budget. The Subcommittee Chairman Sen. Dan Sullivan (Alaska) and Subcommittee Ranking Member Sen. Edward Markey (Mass.) called for legislation mandating that during any future government shutdown, Coast Guard personnel would continue being paid. Sen. Roger Wicker (Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Committee and who also serves on the subcommittee, pledged to work on passing legislation mandating Coast Guard get paid during a government shutdown, just like the other branches of the Uniform Services. 

Members are encouraged to use the Action Center to ask their legislators to support this legislation.   

Senate calls for “Military Retiree Appreciation Day”
The Senate has passed a resolution (S.Res.118), sponsored by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (Mass.) that designates April 18, 2019 as Military Retiree Appreciation Day. The bipartisan measure recognizes, “the importance of paying tribute to those individuals who have faithfully served and retired from the Armed Forces of the United States. On this day, people of the United States are encouraged to honor the past and continued service of military retirees in their local communities and the United States.”

Bill Empowers Employers to Hire Reserve Component Members
Congressman Tim Ryan (Ohio) and Congressman Steven Palazzo (Miss.) have introduced the Reserve Component Employer Incentive, Compensation, and Relief Act (H. R.801). The bill provides employers with a tax credit aimed to offset costs accrued and hardships undertaken when employees that are members of the Reserve Component (National Guard and Reserves) are activated for military duty. This legislation will incentivize employers to hire and retain these service members.

This bill recognizes that the Reserve Component has transitioned from a Strategic Reserve to an Operational Reserve, the National Guard and Reserves are fully integrated in ongoing national security missions around the globe. This transition has led to increased training requirements which go beyond the statutorily required 39 days of annual training to requirements, totaling 80 or more days per year.

The FRA wants to ensure Congress adequately funds and supports Reserve Component requirements for an operational reserve. Members can weigh in on this legislation by going to the Action Center online and scroll down to the appropriate bill.

FEATURE  STORY

F-35 Lightning II: Joint Strike Fighter 
By W.D. Stevenson and Elise M. Howard

The F-35 Lightning II is the manufacturing line of single-seat, single-engine, all-weather, stealth, multirole fighters. The fifth-generation combat aircraft is designed to perform unparalleled ground-attack and air-superiority missions, and is the latest fighter plane to be added to the inventories of the U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. The U.S. plans to purchase nearly 2,700 F-35s for these three service branches over the next 18 years. With a projected service life up to 2070, F-35s are expected to constitute the majority of America’s crewed tactical airpower for decades to come.

A Decade of Development
The story of the F-35 begins in 1993, when the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency launched the Common Affordable Lightweight Fighter project. The purpose was to develop a stealth-enabled design to replace all U.S. Marine Corps and Air Force lightweight fighter and attack aircraft, including the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the AV-8B Harrier II.  In the same year, the Joint Advanced Strike Technology project was started to develop a common strike fighter to replace the Navy’s F/A-18 Hornet. In 1994, Congress ordered the two projects to be merged into the Joint Strike Fighter Program, which aimed to develop a single aircraft that could be used by all three service branches.

After lengthy development and concept demonstration phases, Lockheed Martin Corporation won the JSF program contract. Despite the original vision of creating a single interchangeable design, the differences in each branch’s operational needs proved to be too great, and three distinct versions of the aircraft were developed: the F-35A for the Air Force, the F-35B for the Marine Corps, and the F-35C for the Navy. 

When the first F-35As were built in 2006, Lockheed announced that the model would be named the Lightning II, in homage to the U.S.’s Lockheed P-38 Lightning and the U.K.’s English Electric Lightning F.3. After years of rigorous flight and ground testing, initial deliveries of the F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C were made at last in 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively.

Controversy on Capitol Hill
The F-35 has been criticized by many on and off Capitol Hill for its high cost and lengthy development and production time. The aircraft has been the subject of many dissatisfied presidential tweets, and in 2017, Bloomberg Businessweek characterized the Joint Strike Fighter program as “a two-decades-in-the-making, trillion-dollar mistake.” 

One of the greatest critiques of the program has been its failure to create the promised single plane to serve multiple branches of the military. Through the extensive testing and development phases, changes to the designs of each F-35 variant have resulted in improved performance for each variant, but widening discrepancies between the aircrafts’ designs. Bloomberg Businessweek noted that the three current versions of the F-35 share only 25 percent of their designs.  

The lack of similarities between the F-35 designs means that the predicted economies of scale for producing thousands of identical planes have been limited, resulting in significant budget overruns for the Joint Strike Fighter program. Initially estimated to cost the DOD $50 million each, the F-35 price estimate was closer to $100 million per plane by 2010. Negotiations between the DOD and Lockheed Martin to reduce the cost of each aircraft have been ongoing, and a September 2018 joint press release cited the newly-lowered costs for 2019 deliveries to be $89.2 million per F-35A, $115.5 million per F-35B and $107.7 million per F-35C. 

At the 2018 Senior Air Force Conference in Israel, Lockheed Martin Chairman, President and CEO Marillyn Hewson noted that “We continue to make progress on our goal to reduce the price of the F-35A to $80 million by the year 2020, which is comparable in price to a 4th-generation aircraft, but with all the attributes that the F-35 brings to the fight.”
Despite domestic complaints about the cost, the F-35 has not been short on interested international buyers. Several allies of the United States have placed orders for F-35 squadrons of their own, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Italy, Norway, the Netherlands, Denmark and Turkey, all of whom have contributed millions of dollars to the development of the aircraft. Israel was the first country outside the United States to acquire an operational squadron of its own export variant, the F-35I Adir. 

Three Versions with Common Capability
Anyone who has seen the F-35 in action understands why the international interest in this plane remains strong. All three versions are supersonic, low-observable stealth fighters that utilize a single 40,000-lb. maximum propulsion engine that can achieve Mach 1.6, about 1,200 miles per hour. Each variant has unique capabilities tailored to the service branch it was designed for. 

The F-35A is the only version equipped with an internal cannon and has conventional takeoff and landing abilities. It is designed for the U.S.’s and other nations’ air forces with access to traditional runways, and is scheduled to be the most common version of the F-35 produced. 

The F-35B was designed for the U.S. Marine Corps and other forces operating in short-field bases near the front lines of combat. The F-35B can take off in a mere 300 feet, as well as hover and land vertically by utilizing an Integrated LiftFan Propulsion System. Lockheed Martin won an award in 2002 for this innovative system, which uses a fan behind the cockpit 50 inches in diameter to blast air toward the ground while the engine rotates 90 degrees to send its exhaust downward.

Designed for the U.S. Navy, the F-35C uses a carrier-based, catapult-assisted takeoff and an arrested recovery landing system. It is also equipped with larger wings and sturdier landing gear to handle carrier-based takeoffs and landings, and has the ability to fold its wings upward for compact deck storage. The F-35C also has the largest fuel capacity of the three versions, carrying nearly 20,000 pounds of internal fuel, which allows a carrier to stay safely out of reach while its fighters engage remote targets. The F-35C is the only stealth fighter plane to ever be produced for use on a carrier, and expands a carrier’s mission capabilities.

A Multirole Fighter
One of the benefits of creating a fighter with so many capabilities is that missions traditionally requiring multiple aircraft to serve in air-to-air, air-to-ground, electronic attack, intelligence and surveillance and reconnaissance roles can now be performed by a squadron of F-35s instead, making it a “multirole” fighter.

In intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance roles, the F-35’s integrated airframe design, which contains all of the craft’s fuel and weaponry within the airframe, as well as the advanced materials used to construct it, make it virtually undetectable to radar. The F-35 is also equipped with advanced electronic warfare equipment that allows pilots to jam radars, disrupt attacks, and locate and track enemy forces. These systems allow pilots to reach well-defended targets inaccessible to older aircraft.

Additionally, the F-35’s avionics systems allow for instantaneous information sharing with friendly aircraft, ground troops, nearby ships, and leadership personnel to coordinate military efforts. The F-35’s integrated system of sensors captures more data than any previous fighter aircraft and is coordinated by a core processor that can complete over 400 billion operations per second. The processor combines information from BAE Systems’ classified electronic warfare suite with real-time data from the eight-sensor Electro-Optical Targeting System to identify emissions from enemy radar and electronic warfare equipment. The system also uses this information to recommend targets for attack and determine which weapons would best eliminate the threat.
In more traditional air-to-ground and air-to-air combat roles, the F-35’s advanced electronic systems and stealth give it a distinct advantage over previous generations of aircraft. The Lightning II uses Northrop Grumman’s latest active electronically-scanned array radar, which is the largest antenna ever produced for an aircraft. Its solid-state technology, lack of moving parts, and “replaceable assemblies” design allow for longer-range targeting with low chances of being detected and tracked, as well as frequent hardware and software updates. The F-35 also employs air-to-air, radar-guided missiles and precision-guided ground munitions for precise striking. Defensively, the Lightning II’s electro-optical Distributed Aperture System tracks incoming threats, such as missiles and enemy aircraft. The system is able to track threats up to 800 miles away from all angles simultaneously, as well as calculate a missile’s launch point. 

The Helmet of the Future
A major component of the Lightning II’s advantage over traditional fighter jets is its Helmet Mounted Display System, which gives pilots unprecedented access to surveillance information. The helmet tracks a pilot’s head and pupil movements, using real-time video from six cameras and a sensor system placed underneath the plane to give the pilot a 360 degree view of the world outside the cockpit. The result is that when a pilot looks down, she doesn’t see her feet — she sees the ground. A button on the control stick allows the pilot to toggle between a video feed, thermal imagery, or night vision, and over each type of imaging a pilot can choose which data to display, from mission information such as potential targets, anticipated flight path and distance to destination, to information traditionally provided by a windscreen display, such as airspeed, pitch and altitude. 
The helmets have a kevlar and carbon fiber outer shell that fits over a laser-cut inner liner, which is custom-made for each pilot. To achieve a seamless display that remains functional during high-G maneuvers, pilots attend four hours of fittings over the course of two days. Engineers ensure that the helmet’s optical sensors align precisely with the pilot’s pupils, and that the helmet’s center of gravity sits directly above the pilot’s spine to avoid neck injury.  

Worth the Money?
While the costs of the Lightning II are easy to calculate, the benefits of having the world’s most advanced warplane are difficult to quantify. In the absence of a clearly identified war, it can seem unreasonable to spend decades of development and billions of dollars on a new fighter jet, but many nations have learned that wars do not announce themselves 20 years in advance. The process for developing new technology is never fast, cheap, or easy, and the final product is rarely perfect. While some may always see the F-35 as a “trillion-dollar mistake,” for countless pilots it could be the difference between life and death.  

FEATURE

The Washington Navy Yard
Ceremony, History and Operations in the Nation’s Birthplace
By Ann Norvell Gray

The Washington Navy Yard is the oldest shore establishment of the U.S. Navy. It sits along the Anacostia River in southeast Washington, D.C., about four and a half miles east of the Pentagon and two miles east-southeast of the U.S. Capitol. This power center of the burgeoning Navy was begun by George Washington, conceived as a shipbuilding center during John Adams’ presidency and carefully supervised by Thomas Jefferson, who harbored a fundamental distrust of unrestrained military power, and wanted this base near enough to lie under the watchful eye of a civilian government.1 Congress approved the presence and purposes of the Navy Yard because it supported the protection of commerce across the seas. 

The Navy Yard’s elegant Greek Revival and Italianate street-side ceremonial entrance stands where  Eighth Street Southeast dies into  M Street Southeast. The gate was originally designed by Benjamin Latrobe, second architect of the U.S. Capitol, for whom it is named. The Latrobe Gate’s status as one of the nation’s earliest examples of Greek Revival architecture has contributed to the yard’s designation as a National Historic Landmark, but it was a controversial aesthetic choice at the time. William Thornton, the U.S. Capitol’s first architect and a devotee of simpler classical and Georgian forms, hated it, and called it a “monument to bad taste and design.” 2 

Under Latrobe’s guidance, the yard continued to expand, and added, among other things, a guardhouse, officers’ quarters, shops, and a foundry. During the War of 1812, President Madison’s preoccupation was with the Canadian border. But in August of 1814, the British advanced from the Chesapeake Bay toward the city’s woefully under defended Anacostia River shore, and Secretary of the Navy William Jones ordered the yard’s architect and commandant Thomas Tingey to set fire to the yard. The following day, the British entered the yard to torch the buildings that remained. Mercifully, the Library of the Navy had evacuated all of its books before the blaze began, and neither the Latrobe Gate nor the two historic residences known as Quarters A and Quarters B were burned.

Over the past two hundred years, the purposes and functions of the Navy Yard have expanded and changed as this sea service has enabled the nation to mature into the most sophisticated, formidable naval power in the world. Examples of this change include the Sail Loft, where sailmakers once stitched canvas shade coverings, and which now houses the headquarters of the U.S. Navy Band.  Similarly Building 22, where wooden ships were built and armaments machined, is now the Town Center, which includes a food court, a commissary, a dry cleaner, a florist and offices. 

The Navy Yard has served from its origins as a ceremonial point of entry to the nation’s capital and has berthed and maintained presidential yachts throughout the years. Air travel has made formal riverside  arrivals rare, but such dignitaries as the Marquis de Lafayette, Charles Lindbergh, and the first Japanese ambassador to the United States were welcomed at the waterfront, and the Unknown Soldier from a WWI battlefield was received in a somber ceremony in 1921. And although the NCIS headquarters is now in Quantico, Virginia, it was first located here, and the establishing shot for the television show “NCIS” is the front facade of its original spot. 

The yard is now primarily a ceremonial and administrative center, home to the chief of naval operations and the Naval Sea Systems Command. But in its roles as the headquarters for the Naval History and Heritage Command and the site of the National Museum of the United States Navy, the Washington Navy Yard continues to draw visitors from all over the map.

The National Museum of the United States Navy
The museum is a long, narrow building in the center of the base. Its exposed, skylit metal ceiling and slender struts make one think of an enormous boathouse, while the alcoves housing individual exhibits present the stories, pictures and artifacts at a comfortable scale. As its name suggests, the long gallery is arranged chronologically, illustrating the complexity and richness of the Navy’s role in national progress and security as the United States grew from concept to maturity. The museum’s website introduces you to the experience of the place with a comprehensive series of virtual tours by subject, including “The Forgotten Wars of the Nineteenth Century,” “Navigation,” “Great White Fleet,” and “Undersea Exploration.” 

There is so much to see along the gallery’s length, and so many surprising artifacts and unusual stories beyond what you might think of, that perhaps descriptions of just a few outstanding or unexpected things will serve to whet your appetite for your own exploration.

One of the museum’s most captivating aspects is its enormous collection of exquisite ship models. Even a person who doesn’t know a jib sheet from a bedsheet can be fascinated by the artistry and precision of these remarkable replicas, varying in length from a few feet to numerous yards. They range from tabletop models of elaborately rigged wooden sailing ships to a sizeable scale model of the Iowa-class battleship USS MISSOURI, on whose deck the Japanese surrender ceremony ended the Second World War. After the war, Gibbs and Cox, the engineering firm responsible for the MISSOURI’s design, dedicated 70,000 hours to the construction of this model, which the museum describes as “probably one of the finest examples of the ship model-maker’s art owned by the Navy.”

A huge cut section model of the USS Constitution, lovingly nicknamed “Old Ironsides,” showcases the details of frigate construction, and describes with text and engineering drawings the process of “careening,” by which big ships in need of cleaning or repair below the waterline while far from dry docks could be rolled partway over to provide access to a damaged hull. 

There is an alcove dedicated to the story of Matthew Fontaine Maury, the “Pathfinder of the Seas,” whose pioneering work in improving information for navigation cut passage times significantly. Farther along, another alcove describes the early 20th century development of camouflage called “Razzle Dazzle,” in which wild patterns were designed to confuse the eye and consequently the aim of torpedoes targeting U.S. ships. This exhibit’s photographs of ships painted with these patterns show how incredibly confusing they are and illustrate why the process contributed so significantly to turning the tide of U-boat warfare.

Tragedy Strikes the Yard	
One morning in September of 2013, the whole country was suddenly focused on reports of an active shooter inside the Navy Yard. A  Navy veteran working in the city as a civilian contractor entered the base on a valid ID, pulled a sawed-off shotgun out of a sack, and began shooting, killing twelve people and injuring eight more, all civilians themselves. The shooter is now known to have had a history of instability and violence, but the fact that such an act could have happened on a Navy base in the nation’s capital stunned everyone. Security has been tighter since that terrible day. 

 Visitors to the Navy Yard today enter through a far humbler portal than the Latrobe Gate, with a precise security protocol. The visitors’ center, which conducts brief security checks and issues passes, is just inside the O Street gate, which is south of M Street SE on 11th Street SE, in the middle of the eastern boundary of the yard. Visitors with active or retired military IDs, DOD Common Access Cards, or other federal credentials may enter the base to visit the museum upon arrival and may escort up to 10 other people without such IDs. Those without a federal ID or an escort will need to complete a Base Access Pass Registration form at least seven days prior to their visit, and will be background checked, finger printed, and photographed prior to entry. Once admitted to the base, these individuals will be restricted to visiting the museum only. Parking is extremely limited, and local advice is to take public transportation or use a ride-hailing service or taxi service to get there, if for no other reason than to save yourself time negotiating the area in your car.

However you arrive, give yourself plenty of time to walk the interior streets and the parks if you are able, stopping to see the old and new buildings and the souvenirs of Navy history placed around the base. Walk the length of the museum and investigate the rich collection of stories, accomplishments, engineering feats and artistry. Odds are that even the most seasoned veteran will discover new moments in the nearly two hundred and fifty year history of the U.S. Navy’s relentless and creative dedication to the mastery of the seas, the protection of our national heritage, and the security of the free world.   FRA

Sources
1. Sharp, John G., History of the Washington Navy Yard Civilian Workforce 1799-1962, Stockton, CA, 20005
2. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NRHP/73002098_text 
Return to Table of Contents

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

Programs Are for Branches and MAL Members
Have you ever looked at the Moving Forward page immediately to the right of this article? Did you notice it is also an FRA piece, and not a third-party advertisement?

We have had feedback that many Shipmates did not realize exactly that and missed an opportunity to earn recognition for their recruiting and retention efforts while supporting the FRA’s mission. 

A Shipmate engaging and recruiting a fellow Shipmate to the FRA has a greater impact than any ad. An individual testimonial about why the FRA is important to you will resonate far more strongly because it is personal. This is why word of mouth recruiting and retention is so important, and it's the simplest thing every Shipmate can do to strengthen both their branch and the national association. 

We want active recruiters to be recognized for their efforts and have just redesigned the annual collectible pin. A picture of the new design is shown on the next page; as you can see, it features the familiar FRA triangular emblem, but modified with “Recruiting & Retaining 2019-2020” around the edge. Thus, it is a new annual design for this specific membership and recruiting year.

To earn this award, Shipmates need to recruit three new or former members into the FRA. We believe this is a goal that you could achieve simply through your normal connections in your community. For those of you who participate in reunions or attend branch meetings, those are excellent venues to introduce prospective members to the FRA. 

The pins are stylish and just the right size for your lapel or your service cap, but there are higher tiers of achievement available as well. If you recruit five new or former members, you will receive the “Recruit 5” pin also shown at right, and a complimentary one year extension to your membership. If you recruit 32 new or former members during one membership year, your own FRA membership will be converted to lifetime status. If you are already a life member, you will be awarded $100. A full list of FRA membership Awards can be  found at www.fra.org/MembershipAwards.

For the 2018-2019 recruiting year, 380 members participate in the recruiting program and two “Recruit 32” awards were earned by Shipmates, so we know it is possible with determination and the right tools. We encourage you get started early in the membership year which began on April first, to maximize your chances, and we hope these programs and tools FRA can provide will help you to work on your introductory remarks and find new places to meet potential Shipmates. 

One final note: you do not have to be affiliated with a Branch to participate in any of these programs. Members-At-Large, who encompass over one-third of our membership, are eligible for all the same reward tiers described above, whether their new recruits ultimately affiliate with a Branch or not. The goal is to increase membership overall for the FRA, because that strengthens our voice and standing in Washington, DC, and among our fellow veteran service organizations. 

We hope you will embrace the program and we look forward to sending you your pins!
Yours in Loyalty, Protection, and Service,
Christina Hitchcock

Christina is the FRA’s Director of Membership. She can be reached at ChristinaH@fra.org or 703-683-1400 (Ext. 123)
Shipmate News
1. Branch 126, Jacksonville, Fla.
Branch President and PRPSE James J. Thomas presents a certificate and award to eighth grade Americanism Essay winners from Epiphany Catholic School in Lake City, Florida. (L to R) Luke J. Dotson, 2nd place;  Dhruv Patel, 1st place and Alexander Trowell, 3rd Place.

2. Branch 208, Jacksonville, N.C.
The Camp Lejeune Branch presents awards to the 2019 local Fleet Reserve Association Americanism Essay winners, at their monthly meeting on March 12. (L to R) Branch President Raymond Applewhite, Kiersten Caliguire, Ashley Schaefer, Lexi Froncek, Laci Froncek, and Branch Secretary Paul Miethker.

3. Branch 316, Springfield, Mo.
First place winners of the Branch 2018-2019 Americanism Essay Contest were awarded. 
(L to R) Branch President Virginia Swayne; Luke Hall, seventh grade; Dawnele Baker, ninth grade; Patrick Beranek,10th grade; 
Danielle Hudson, 11th grade; Damian Gonzales, 12th grade and Branch Americanism Essay Chair Norma Wright.

4. Branch 117, Orlando, Fla.
(R) Branch President Jim Middlekauff presents a 50-year certificate for continuous membership and pin to PRPSE (2006-2007) (L) Anthony (Tony) Cassata.

5. Branch 172, Yorktown, Va. 
Seven students were presented essay contest awards on March 18. Grafton Middle School and one Woodside High School were represented. Seventh grade winners were: 1st place, Sawyer Ehrlich; 2nd place Kaylee Brown; 3rd place Sophia Kelly. Eighth grade winners were: 1st place, Fiona Lin; 2nd place, Mackenzie Nations; 3rd place, Nathaniel Burton. The senior 1st place winner was Lauren Howard. (L to R) Branch President John Frankenberg, Kelly, Lin, Brown, Nations, Ehrlich, Burton, Howard and Branch Essay/Scholarship Coordinator Cal Richardson.

6. Branch 146, Johnsville, Pa.
American Essay Contest awards were presented to students at St. Isidore Catholic School in Quakertown on March 8. (L to R) Shipmate Otto Blavier, Principal Dr. Robin Convoy, eighth grade 1st place Callan Abel, seventh grade 2nd place Grace Urenovich, seventh grade 1st place Kiele Magalengo & Branch Secretary Joe Millman. Abel was also selected as seventh grade 2nd place winner in the NE/NEng Regional Competition.

7. Branch 245, BELLINGHAM, Wash.
Samuel and Madi Clemenson accept their awards from (R) Branch 245 President Michael Cole and their grandfather, (L)Shipmate Larry Johnson. Both won first place recognition at the Branch level and also won at the Northwest Regional Competition—a first and a second place, respectively.

8. Branch 207, Dale City, Va.
The Branch president congratulates Shipmate John Overton for his 40 years as a member of the FRA. (L to R) PNP Jeffrey Gilmartin, Shipmate John Overton, Branch President John Milliken, Shipmate Jack Lohmeyer, Branch Treasurer John Tyler, PNP Jerry Sweeney and Branch Secretary Bill Ashton.

9. Branch 146 Johnsville, Pa.
Shipmates gather to say “Goodbye” to Shipmate Don Doring (seated). He is moving to Virginia and has already been invited by a Branch to join their Shipmates.

10. Branch 208 Jacksonville, N.C.
On March 4, President Raymond Applewhite and LA FRA PNP Arlene Hemmingway, presented a $500 donation to Coastal Carolina Community College student Alexander Gerace. The donation was in memory of PNP Hemmingway’s spouse PNT Bill Hemmingway. Hemmingway faithfully served his community for several decades. (L to R) Raymond Applewhite, Alexander Gerace and Arlene Hemmingway.

11. Branch 72, Fall River, MA.  
Shipmate Peter D’Arrigo receives his 50-year continuous membership award while surrounded by his fellow Shipmates (L to R) Larry Beirola, Allen Given, Peter D’Arrigo and Branch President Ed Bailey.

12. South Central Region
(L to R) During the Regional Mid-year Meeting, PRPSC Mike Snyder, PRPSC Terry Merteen, JrPRPSC Bruce Talbot, RPSC Emmett Smith and PRPSC Jerry Pugh all gather for a photo opportunity.

13. Branch 226 Staten Island, N.Y.
During the New York Coast Guard Enlisted Person of the Year Award Ceremony, Petty Officer Samuel Guzman received a plaque by the FRA and CPOA for Enlisted Person of the Year for Sector N.Y. (L to R) Branch President James Brown, BM1 Samuel Guzman, N.Y. Sector Commander Capt. Tama and Command Master Chief Evans.

TAPS
 
Name 	Rating	Branch
Acker, Albert D.	ADCS, USN	156
Airey, Emanuel L.	SGT, USMC	212
Anderson, Alfie E.	CS1, USN	029
Anderson, Jerry       	SMCM(SW), USN	242
Angelo, Frank M.	YCM(SS), USN	099
Arbo, Adrian E.	LT(NC), USNR	MAL
Arnette, Hildrey H.	HTC, USN	MAL
Bagby, Grover C.	ACC, USN	MAL
Bailey, Wallace L.	BMCS, USN	MAL
Baker, Jackie L.	HMCM, USN	060
Ball, Thomas A.	CSCM, USN	018
Bane, Wilson M.	HTC, USN	024
Barnett, Leroy E.	LCDR, USCGR	MAL
Barr, James R.	DT1, USN	302
Basinet, Donald L.	SSGT, USMC	339
Bauer, George C.	RMC, USN	057
Baughn, Marvin L.	CWO3, USN	105
Beeler, William D.	ADRC, USN	292
Beer, Murray	RMC, USN	219
Benson, John K.	SSGT, USMC	106
Bigelow, Robert Joseph	   S1C, USNR	059
Blackford, Bruce L.	AFCM, USN	346
Blake, James E.	UT2, USN	MAL
Blanco, Evaristo B.	MSC, USN	060
Blansett, Walter T.	SKCS, USN	MAL
Bonzagni, George A.	HMC, USN	109
Botte, Peter	CWO4, USN	MAL
Bounds, James G.	ENCM, USN	136
Bowers, Dale R.	HMC, USN	MAL
Bowman, Margaret H.  	YN3, USN	170
Bradell, Wilbert A.	QMC, USN	049
Bragg, Ralph L.	PHC, USN	MAL
Breck, Terry J	ETCM, USN	MAL
Breedlove, Richard D.	  YNC, USN	089
Brehm, Bernard F.	UTCM, USN	MAL
Brindle, Dennis J.	AD1, USN	077
Brockwell, Glen M.	GMGC, USN	MAL
Brown, Ray E.	MSCM/SS, USN	104
Brown, Donald B.	RMCS, USN	147
Bugg, Norman D.	LCDR, USN	192
Bunch, Louis M.	IC1, USN	226
Bunch, David E.	YNC, USN	161
Burton, Lewellyn D.	FTCM, USN	MAL
Camacho, Juan S.	CPO, USN	MAL
Cannon, Maurice L.	CS1, USN	MAL
Casey, Martin J.	SKC, USN	089
PRPSE, Cassata, Anthony 	AMHC, USN 	117
Cassity, Jack	HMC, USN	MAL
Catron, William F.	ENCS, (SS) USN	105
Caughey, Samuel L.	ETC, USN	269
Center, James E.	BMC, USN	029
Chapin, William D.	SS2, USN	024
Chapman, Donald W.	  SN, USN	230
Cheche, James D.	PO1, USN	099
Chitwood, John P.	AMHC, USN	334
Cinque, Francis A.	RMCS, USN	MAL
Clark, John F.	MSGT, USMC	MAL
Clevenger, John M.  	BMCM(DV) USN	MAL
Clolinger, Edward D.	BUCS, USN	MAL
Cole, Jerry	PO1, USN	MAL
Collins, Abraham	GYSGT, USMC	175
Collins, John P.	CE1, USN	MAL
Concklin, Bryce G.	MUC, USN	067
Conklin, Thomas	CM1, USN	311
Conner, Leland K.	AOC, USN	047
Conner, William E.	AKC, USN	MAL
Conrad, George M.	POCM, USCG	172
Conrad, James A.	RMCM, USN	MAL
Copeland, Lenton W.	 BUCS, USN	MAL
Corbin, William P.	ENC, USN	187
Cox, Robert D.	BMC, USN	MAL
Cross, James W.	NCCM, USN	024
Crowther, Paul J.	EM2, USN	067
Cunningham, James W.  	RM1, USN	105
Cunningham, Herbert	  YNC, USNR	MAL
Dalton, Chauncey W.	   ADJC, USN	175
Dannemann, Leonard C.  	MKCM, USCG	263
Daugherty, Obal	GMGC, USN	194
Davis, Willie E.	ICC, USN	126
Day, Dean E.	AE1, USN	086
Deal, Mervin	DSC, USN	MAL
Dearman, Herman L.	HMC, USN	264
Dechaine, James E.	MS1, USN	MAL
Deleo, Angelo E.	SHCM, USN	162
Desko, Frank J.	DTCS, USN	024
Deville, Lenard          	POC(CMC) USN	MAL
Di Edwardo, Dante B.	AEC, USN	156
Dickerson, Lewis J.	MNC, USN	212
Diorio, Neil G.	LCDR, USN	085
Dodds, Dennis D.	ETCS(SW), USN	040
Drexel, Allen P.	MS1, USN	115
DuPont, Fredrick R.	ETCS(SW), USN	025
Durland, Peter S.	FCCM, USN	008
Edwards, Casper H.	ADJC, USN	054
Edwards, Jessie R.	CPO, USN	MAL
Ekstrom, Frederick H.	   EM1, USN	229
Eldred, Carl C.	EMCM, USN	MAL
Erdman, Robert G.	AO1, USN	MAL
Ervin, Merritt G.	HMC, USN	MAL
Escher, Sidney E.	CPL, USMC	092
Evans, Paul H.	CWO2, USN	060
Evans, Herman B.	ADC, USN	MAL
Ewers, Alfred C.	JOC, USN	060
Fazendin, John C.	EMC, USN	MAL
Felton, Edwin C.	QMCS (SS),USN	106
Fernandez, Richard F.	CS1, USN	186
Fewox, Grover C.	TMCS, USN	269
Folsom, George	DK1, USN	011
Forbes, Lester J.	ETC, USN	MAL
Forrest, Warren R.	EMCM(SS), USN	161
Fortuno, Cesar R.	SKC, USN	127
Foster, James R.	ETC(SS), USN	287
Fredrickson, Raymond G. 	HMCS, USN	MAL
French, Justin B.	AZCS, USN	099
Fruling, Edward	AMM3, USN	254
Fuller, Gerald D.	HMC, USN	047
Gallagher, James P.	HMC(SS), USN	087
Galloway, David C.	MS1, USN	MAL
Garner, James A.	PRC, USN	234
Garrett, Harold H.	ADR1, USN	011
Gaskin, Robert H.	MTC, USN	049
Gass, Paul J.	ETCS, USN	316
Geer, William Francis	EM1, USN	234
Gelinas, Gerard H.	HMC, USN	011
Gerow, William	CPO, USN	137
Gibbs, Harold	HMC(SS), USN	MAL
Gochnauer, Robert C.	MT1, USN	269
Goo, Glicerio I.	PO2, USN	046
Gray, John T.	AE1, USN	MAL
Gray, Robert D.	ADCS, USN	268
Greenlee, Robin C.	SK1, USN	061
Grosskopf, Douglas O.	DTC, USN	040
Halcrow, John	RMCS, USN	175
Hall, Edward E.	EMCS, USN	187
Hall, Irving R.	RMCS, USN	040
Hallett, Edward R.	CAPT, USN	067
Hamilton, Charles R.	SHCM, USN	040
Hankins, Norman L.	AEC, USN	042
Harden, Herbert P.	RMC(SS), USN	269
Harmon, Nathaniel	OSC, USN	077
Harrar, Donald	EQCM, USN	070
Harris, Raymond N.	LCDR, USN	188
Harris, William E.	GMCS, USN	182
Havasy, Stephen E.	YNC, USN	089
Hayworth, Glenn L.	HMC, USN	178
Healy, Joseph G.	CAPT, USMC	261
Heidinger, Thomas J.	MKC, USCG	309
Heitkemper, Bernard L.	YNC, USN	MAL
Hernandez, Floyd J.	MSGT, USMC	163
Heston, Leroy S.	ATC, USN	112
Hill, Jerry L.	BTC, USN	147
Hill, Marvin L.	IC1, USN	238
Hirsch, Joe E.,	CAPT, USNR	MAL
Hix, Leroy	USN	188
Houseknecht, Collins	 PNC, USN	MAL
Howell, Delbert L.	BM1, USN	269
Howell, Robert O.	POC, USN	040
Hull, Laurence N.	SK1, USNR	192
Hurd, Daniel	LCDR, USN	MAL
Hurst, Marshall E.	GYSGT, USMC	MAL
Hutchens, Shirley G.	ABEC, USN	MAL
Iovanna, William R.	CWO4, USN	024
Jack, Gaylon Gene	HTC, USNR	011
Jackson, James E.	CPO, USN	256
Jasper, Gordon A.	AK1, USN	MAL
Jenkins, Charles E.	MA1, USN	MAL
Jenkins, Karl W.	1STSGT, USMC	MAL
Jennings, Ronald V.	NCCS, USN	382
Jeschke, Walter G.	CTC, USN	024
Johnson, Charles E.	BMC, USN	290
Johnson, Fred A.	EMC, USN	MAL
Johnson, Walter L.	AVCM, USN,	029
Jones, Arthur L.	ENC(SS), USN	055
Jones, George	BMC, USN	MAL
Jones, Gerald W.	ENCM(SS), USN	136
Joseph, Robert F.	ICCS, USN	166
Kehoe, Kevin J.	PO3, USN	MAL
Kelly, Donald J.	AMHC, USN	289
Kendrick, James P.	ADJ1, USN	MAL
Kennedy, Odie R.	ABCS, USN	029
Keyser, James W.	DTC, USN	117
King, Claud M.	ADRC, USN	MAL
Kirtlink, William W.	BTCM, USN	042
Klotz, Ralph X.	TM1(SS), USN	251
Knecht, Robert J.	AOCS, USN	289
Kooken, Charles R.	PO1, USN	MAL
Laberge, Charles E.	HMC, USN	046
Laedtke, Ralph H.	CAPT/ MSC, USN	053
Lambinus, Albert L.	OSC, USN	364
Lancaster, John W.	MMC, USN	MAL
Landry, William W.	USN	289
LaRue, Billy E.	BM,USN	061
Lawson, Jearld	CPO, USN	MAL
Lee, William	BT1, USNR	001
Leonard, Reuben M.	ADCS, USN	060
Letterman, Kenneth A.	SKC, USN	MAL
Limerick, James A.	STC, USN	251
Lloyd, Edward L.	HMCS, USN	024
Long, William S.	CS1, USN	175
Lorena, Gil M.	DKCS, USN	104
Loyd, Elmer	TMC, USN	117
Lozier, Vernon W.	UTC, USN	038
Luce, Gary L.	CPO, USN	MAL
Lydon, John W.	PRC, USN	MAL
Machalinski, Raymond A. 	ATC, USN	053
Majors, Larry L.	CPO, USN	MAL
Mallari, Agripino	SF1, USN	175
Manion, Frank A.	AXCS, USN	MAL
Manlove, Henry E.	HTCM, USN	309
Maris, William L.	LT, USN	245
Marsh, John Orie	COL, USMC	177
To report the death of a Shipmate, please contact us via email at mserfra@fra.org or by telephone at 703-683-1400 ext 1. 
Return to Table of Contents

REUNIONS/lOOKINGFOR…
Reunions
Navy Musicians Association
6/18/2019-6/23/2019
Milwaukee, Wisc.
Contact: Wilbur Smith
Telephone: 407-497-9765
Email: smuffsan@gmail.com

USS Billfish (SSN-676)
8/25/2019-8/28/2019
Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
Contact: John Martin
Telephone: 301-689-5070
Email: jmmartin622@yahoo.com

USS Pickaway (APA-222) Amphship Assoc.
9/5/2019-9/9/2019
Buffalo/Niagara Falls, N.Y.
Contact: Skip Sander
Telephone: 412-367-1376
Email: lsander153@aol.com

USS John King (DDG-3)
9/9/2019-9/12/2019
Mystic, Conn.
Contact: Mathew Cummings
Telephone: 917-685-6804
Email: mrgilholey@msn.com

VP-4 Association
9/11/2019-9/15/2019
San Diego, Calif.
Contact: Larry Hames
Telephone: (503) 688-9804
Email: Larry.Hames@VP4Association.com

USS Beale (DDE/DD-471)
9/12/2019-9/15/2019
Bay City, Mich.
Contact: Leroy Thurn
Telephone: 320-233-7340
Email: Idtretired@frontier.com

USS Antietam (CV/CVA/CVS-36)
9/15/2019-9/18/2019
Buffalo, N.Y.
Contact: Lyonel Young
Telephone: 316-680-0252
Email: lyonelyoung@outlook.com

USS Prichett (DD-561)
9/16/2019-9/20/2019
Wilmington, N.C.
Contact: Terry Crawford 
Telephone: 618-259-3007
Email: prichett@charter.net

USS Towers (DDG-9)
9/17/2019-9/21/2019
Savannah, Ga.
Contact: Raymond Wong
Telephone: 415-601-6285
Email: usstowersddg9@pacbell.net

USS Cacapon (AO-52)
9/18/2019-9/22/2019
Long Beach, Calif.
Contact: Bruce Webster
Telephone: 949-786-9663
Email: bruce.webster@cox.net

USS Sterett Association
9/20/2019-9/22/2019
Jacksonville, Fla.
Contact: Joe Gaughan
Telephone: 904-465-7175
Email: jgaug58@att.net

Mobile Inshore Undersea Warfare (MIUW) 
Unit-112 /Inshore Boat Unit (IBU)-14
9/21/2019-9/21/2019
Perryville, Mo.
Contact: Dean Berkbigler
Telephone: 618-972-6960
Email: DeanDot@hotmail.com

USS Dixie (AD-14), USS Sierra (AD-18)
9/23/2019-9/27/2019
Dayton, Ohio
Contact: Ken Robinson
Telephone: 520-825-5613
Email: Robinson4Ken@gmail.com

USS Piedmont (AD-17)
9/23/2019-9/27/2019
Dayton, Ohio
Contact: Michael Morast
Telephone: 517-673-7157
Email: memorast@yahoo.com

USS Forrestal CVA/CV/AVT-59
10/1/2019-10/6/2019
Jacksonville, Fla.
Contact: Jim Brussell
Telephone: 937-295-2863
Email: cva59@roadrunner.com

USS Sperry (AS12)
10/1/2019-10/4/2019
Reno, Nev.
Contact: David Jackson
Telephone: 360-435-6919
Email: Djpanda34@cs.com

USS Iwo Jima (LPH2/LHD7)
10/2/2019-10/5/2019
Norfolk, Va.
Contact: Robert G. McNally
Telephone: 757-723-0317
Email: yujack46709@gmail.com

MCB 11 Seabees
10/2/2019-10/6/2019
Seattle/Everett, Wash.
Contact: Larry Hagler
Telephone: 512-796-2834
Email: mcb11@earthlink.net

VP-6 Blue Sharks Association
10/2/2019-10/6/2019
San Antonio, Texas
Contact: James Lamers
Telephone: 703-727-7944
Email: jimlvp6@comcast.net

Mine Division 113 Vietnam (Navy)
10/3/2019-10/6/2019
St. Petersburg Fla.
Contact: Dick Schreifels
Telephone: 651-455-1876
Email: richard_rosemary@msn.com

MCB1/MCB9/MCB10
10/3/2019-10/9/2019
Virginia Beach, Va.
Contact: Wally Johnson
Telephone: 757-570-5864
Email: wallyjohnson1711@gmail.com

USS El Paso (LKA-117)
10/3/2019-10/6/2019
Norfolk, Va.
Contact: David Suhs
Telephone: 808-450-8704
Email: DavidS@ussmissouri.org

USS Providence (CL-82/CLG-6)
10/9/2019-10/13/2019
San Antonio, Texas
Contact: Jim Chryst
Telephone: 717-284-6996
Email: jchryst@embarqmail.com

USS Saratoga (CVA/CV-60)
10/10/2019-10/14/2019
Charleston, S.C.
Contact: Ed McCready
Telephone: 845-729-8775
Email: emc0853@yahoo.com

USS Waller (DD/DDE0-466)
10/12/2019-10/20/2019
Philadelphia, Pa.
Contact: John McCabe
Telephone: 215-280-5111
Email: johnmccabe@hotmail.com

USS Monticello (LSD-35)
10/16/2019-10/20/2019
Branson, Mo.
Contact: Robert Behm
Telephone: 573-207-4670
Email: beamer@ussmonticello.com

USS Bordelon (DD/DDR881)
10/17/2019-10/20/2019
Jacksonville, Fla.
Contact: Sonny Stowers
Telephone: 804-356-3112
Email: dpeterson53@comcast.net

A list of Reunions is at: www.fra.org/Reunions. All Reunions/lookingFor… must be submitted online, via email to reunions@fra.org or in writing to FRA Reunions/LookingFor…at 125 N. West St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Include your Member ID and a daytime telephone number. For help, contact FRA Member Services at: 1-800-FRA-1924.

AUXILIARY OF THE FRA

The National Pilgrimage
In the words of Winnie the Pooh, April 27th “was a blustery day.” Although it was bright and sunny, the wind was blowing. 

To start off the day’s activities, a large group of Auxiliary members met at 0900, in the lobby of the Sheraton hotel located at Pentagon City in Arlington, Virginia. We were about to pay our respects and honor to PNC Ofelia T. Bitanga from Unit 274. She was being laid to rest with her beloved spouse Michael at Arlington National Cemetery. Led by Arlington Lady PNP Doreen Huylebroeck, the contingent arrived and met with the family. There were plenty of hugs and condolences. 

Upon the conclusion of the burial ceremony, most of the contingent returned to the hotel for the National President’s Tea, which was hosted by Pilgrimage Chair Grace Villanueva and the members of Unit 4. The tables were decorated with three-tier sandwich trays topped with tea cups, surrounded by fruit bouquets. There were also rum cake, fruited scones, brownies, petite cakes and chocolate accompanied by an assortment of tea. The entertainment was provided by Lindsy Thomas and Hannah Castillo–Villanueva. 

The next event was loading the vans for the trip back to Arlington and the ceremony at the USS MAINE Mast Memorial. RPEC LA FRA Cristina Dixon and RPEC FRA Randy Philllipp led the preambles. We were once again treated by Lindsy Thomas singing a beautiful rendition of “The Star Spangle Banner” followed by “America the Beautiful. ”
 
FRA National President Robert Washington expressed thanks from the FRA for all the support given by the LA FRA. The eulogy was presented and for the first time in the history of the LA FRA the organization’s national president was escorted by a female Marine, Lance Cpl. Maiah Jurado, and a male sailor Seaman Taylor Baska. 

The prayer was led by Loretta Jorden from Unit 24 and the Two-Bell Ceremony was conducted by PRPEC Chris Slawinski and RPEC Brian Condon, both from Branch 181. Taps was performed by a navy bugler. RPNE/NEng Joyce Harris added her special touch to the ceremony. My escorts and I then led the pilgrimage down the walkway from the Mast of the Maine to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We were followed by the color bearers Aida Littlejohn from Unit 182 and Dorothy Smiley from Unit 99. The national officers also attended; NVP Bea Parco, NFS Pat Suckow, NT Linda Telly, parliamentarian and NTPNP Doreen Huylebroeck, RP NE/NEng and PNP Cindy Rodham-Tuck, RPEC Cristina Dixon, RPSE and PNP Carolyn Whitaker, RPNC Barbara White, RPSC  and PNP Gini Larson, RPSW Peggy Loa, RPWC Brenda Horton, RPNW Rose Hall, PNP Sandra Robbins, PNP Helen Courneya, PNP Diane Hoover, PNC Gail Nathan and PNC Vera Thomas.

Many members of the LA FRA and the FRA attended, including FRA NED Tom Snee, PNP Bob Beese, PNP Virgil Courneya, PNP Donald Larson and JrPNP William Starkey. Thanks to Shipmate Chris Murray for taking the pictures. For those who were unable to attend due to illness, our prayers are with you.

As we move to the second half of the administrative year, remember to send in your 2019-2020 officer lists to the National Executive Secretary by July 15. Also be sure to file your IRS 990 and select your delegates for Regional and National Conventions. Thank you for continuing to recruit and reinstate members.  

In Loyalty, Protection and Service, Christina Murray, National President  
Christina is the LA FRA National President and can be reached at: 
christinamurray.lafra@gmail.com
FINANCE MATTERS

Four Ways to Invest More Confidently in a Volatile Market
When financial markets fluctuate, even the calmest investors can start to question their financial strategies. But volatile markets can present opportunities, says Tracie McMillion, head of global asset allocation strategy for Wells Fargo Investment Institute (WFII). 

“Financial markets are frequently volatile—that’s their nature,” she says. “Over longer periods of time, that volatility can add up to attractive portfolio growth.” 

McMillion shares an analogy that compares this worry to seasickness: “If you stare at the waves directly ahead of you (the current financial market), the water may look bumpy and turbulent, and you might feel ill at ease. However, if you look outward at the horizon (your long-term investment goals), the ocean as a whole appears to be on a fairly even keel.”

In addition to focusing on your financial horizon, here are some strategies you can use to help weather economically turbulent times.

1: Match your investments to your time horizon. The simplest way to feel more comfortable about your investments is to align them with your financial calendar, no matter what happens in the financial world this month or year. For example, do you need some of your money fairly soon, or want it close at hand in case of an emergency? If so, McMillion says you should consider investments such as cash holdings and short-term bonds that shouldn’t lose much, if any, value over the short term. 

On the other hand, if you won’t need some of your investment money until you retire multiple years in the future, equities or longer-term bonds are worth a closer look. Those investments carry more risks but also offer potentially better returns.

2: Know what to expect from your assets. Some investors lose confidence because they don’t fully understand how their investments work. In that case, McMillion says, some knowledge of typical asset behavior is a good thing. 

Consider reading up on different types of investments and asking questions of your financial advisor. Once you know how your investments are more likely to perform in certain financial markets, you can help ensure that your investment strategy is in line with your tolerance for risk.

3: Tune out the noise. By “noise” McMillion means the constant barrage of financial reports from the 24/7 news media. 

“It’s common for the financial markets to temporarily get a little bit messy as they sort through the current news cycle,” she says. 

However, investors usually don’t need to react to the everyday financial news, no matter how topsy-turvy things may seem. 

“Remember: The U.S. news tends to report on a very small slice of available investments, particularly U.S. large company stocks,” she says. “Your portfolio, if it’s diversified as it should be, probably isn’t going up and down to the same degree as these stocks. Your portfolio changes are probably much more moderate.”

4Regularly revisit your plan. There’s no such thing as a completely set-it-and-forget-it investment strategy, McMillion says. It’s always smart to check in regularly with your investment advisor. 

“Your life circumstances may change, or your financial goals could shift,” she says. “You’ll feel much more confident that your investments are doing their job if you review them regularly with your advisor.”     FRA

Wells Fargo Investment Institute, Inc. is a registered investment adviser and wholly owned subsidiary of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., a bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Carl M. Trevisan, Managing Director-Investments and Stephen M. Bearce, First Vice President- Investments in Alexandria, VA at 800-247-8602.
Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE
Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
© 2019 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.