With 50 people in attendance, Cpl. Robert “Bob” Jack Calvillo was honored with the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) Korean War Medallion presented by NCOA Central Valley Chapter Chairman CMSgt Jim Sullivan, USAF (Ret) at Carlton Senior Living Orangevale.
Additionally, the offices of Rep. Kevin  Kiley CA-3, Assemblyman Josh Hoover AD-7 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of California gave special certificates of recognition to Cpl. Calvillo – who belongs to Folsom VFW Post 6604 – acknowledging his heroic sacrifices serving in the Korean War and unfortunate subsequent capture as a Prisoner of War. Special guests in attendance included Senior Vice Commander of the VFW Department of California SFC David Kuta (Ret), Placerville VFW Camerado Post 10165 Commander US Army CSM Lenny McAdams (Ret) and VFW Auxiliary Post 6604 Chaplain Kelle Hernandez.
Calvillo, the second of eight children, was born Aug. 21, 1929, in Oakland. He joined the US Army in 1948 for a three-year enlistment. In August 1950, he boarded a troop ship to Korean. Once in country, he was attached to IX Corps, 2nd Infantry Division Field Artillery, 38th Field Artillery Battalion, Bravo Co., as a Private First-Class field cook. Calvillo found himself on the main battle lines in North Korea.
On an extremely humid, blustery cold Korean Peninsula Day, in the early hours of Dec. 1, 1950, performing his job as a field cook and not knowing of his future plight or US Army Forces predicament in the coming hours, Cavillo and his company band of brothers were behind enemy lines. By mid to late afternoon, they were suddenly overrun by North Korean and Chinese soldiers, with and without weapons, as he remembers, swarming down like a crashing wave from the mountains.
Calvillo found a rifle in hands during the chaos. He encountered a Chinese soldier in a foxhole and remembers vividly the moment when he stared at this “scared, young kid.” As his finger was squeezing the trigger, he released the pressure just below the 4½ pounds needed for the firing pin to hit the cartridge releasing the full metal jacket, only to let the enemy go. He could not shoot an unarmed enemy combatant. Afterward, “I hid in the bushes with another soldier close by to two lifeless bodies of North Korean soldiers. I was thinking they were going to shoot us when they caught me. Blame us for killing them,” Bob said.
The overwhelming numbers of the enemy were too much for US forces to repel and subsequently the soldiers were quickly surrounded by the North Korean and Chinese armies. Calvillo was captured in the early evening hours at the Battle of the Ch’ongch’on River, becoming one of many Prisoners of War. According to Robert, “When they surrounded us and captured me, I thought it was the end. I thought they would kill us. After the enemy came marching down and surrounded us, all I had was a field shirt, trench coat, boots and scarf. I lost my steel helmet. They took us captive, marching us north.”
They now led the demoralized American Battalion deeper into North Korea on a long, cold trek, village to village, house to house, shack to shack, finally to where they were only sleeping under a canopy of stars. En route north, Calvillo saw a mass enemy Army march in large groups past him heading south toward entrenched US forces with the captives not knowing their fate. The Chinese and North Koreans were advancing against the US Army and pushing the battle lines further back with the Americans in fast retreat. However, Robert’s predicament would only worsen the longer he stayed alive.
Calvillo remarked on his overall feeling of his time as a POW, “It was terrible. terrible. The North Koreans were mean.” He remembered while on his journey north, “I went outside this house they had us in to (urinate). I was forced by a North Korean back into the house or they’d shoot me. If you didn’t do what they say, the North Koreans will shoot you. Sheltering outside, sleeping under the frigid cold blanket of the Korean winter was terrible.”
One of Calvillo’s most horrible memories described in few words, “One guy I knew tried to escape running up a hill after (our) capture and (the North Koreans) just shot him without saying anything. He was a nice guy.”
They left the unknown soldier for his family to never truly know his fate. This memory reel still plays over and over in his mind, Bob said. He and the US Army prisoners were marched further north toward the Yal-Lu River during the coldest part of winter, without winter gear, arriving at the border between North Korea and China. The American POWs ended up in “Prison Camp 5,” where he was kept for more than two years under atrocious living conditions and severe inclement weather. The prison camp was manned by Chinese guards, where they separated the officers from the enlisted with other separate groups.
Although the Chinese captors were much better hosts than the North Koreans, Calvillo recalled, “Two guys escaped from the Chinese camp and were never seen again. The Chinese told us if you get captured by the North Koreans, we can’t be responsible for what they do.” The Chinese captors from time to time would tell them they were being set free, only to suffer under the false pretenses of hope being mentally tortured.
“We didn’t have shelter. When it snowed, me and two other prisoners would cover ourselves with a mattress to try to keep warm. That was the only warmth not to die,” he said. By this time, Robert only had his field coat during his time as a prisoner lucky to have boot wear. American POWs were not supplied anything extra since their capture. Said Calvillo, “Once a day, they fed us, (and) all they gave us (was) simple things and rice. Fed usually mid morning with a cup of rice. Most times, the meal of the day was known as ‘soupy soup.’ ”
At times, the wardens would force Robert into a 35-gallon barrel for at least 30 minutes at a time to be unusually cruel. He said he would tell his captors he couldn’t fit into the barrel. It was made clear if he did not fit himself into the barrel, he would be killed, so he made himself fit into the barrel and sealed up in the unimaginable limited space no human should endure. The physical torture, combined with constant spiritual degradation, mixed with emotional turmoil, coupled with mental abuse, his captors again and again would toy with their American prisoners, telling them they would be released soon, giving them false hope as the months and years dragged on.
There were many times he faced serious health conditions that could have cost him his life, as well as having the hardship of losing many of his friends, but Bob, as he is known by close family and friends, kept with his faith, determined to live.
In the spring of 1953, after two years in a POW prison camp, PFC Calvillo was abruptly taken on an unknown journey. Robert thinks back to his release, saying, “They had all of us load up into their trucks. They drove miles and miles through the forests. I thought they’re going to shoot us, they had guns. When they would stop for a break, (they would be) surrounding us, I thought, ‘This is the end.”
The day came for his repatriation. Operation Big and Little Switch were in full operational swing repatriating Americans and UN members. Bob was transported to Freedom Village for his complete repatriation, where he received medical treatment, food, shower and fresh uniform. He then boarded a ship back to America with other troops and prisoners. Calvillo described his release into American custody as a lackluster affair.
After returning home, Cpl. Robert Calvillo soon separated from the Army, later attending the Academy of Art College. He met his wife, Carmine, at Kay Jewelers, where he worked in the display department. He owned a couple of businesses with his two younger brothers. He is a humble, talented artist and enjoys sketching and listening to big band music. He still enjoys spending time with his wife of 62 years, with his only child, Melissa, and son-in-law Greg Deal being actively involved in his life.
Robert Calvillo is a hero, having endured more than most soldiers being a captive of the enemy. Surviving against the odds of captivity, lack of clothing, food and shelter, and the basic necessities of survival, he made it back alive but forever scarred. He showed true stoicism during the interviews, sharing with me his horrible memories from more than 70 years ago as a Prisoner of War. Robert suffers from Post Traumatic Stress, at times, staring into the distance with quiet intensity as he told his horrible experiences, unable to hide back his emotions no matter how hard he tried to be in the present moment.
In September 2018, the Pentagon finally awarded Bob his long-deserved medals. His nephew, Corporal David Penaflor, presented Bob with five military medals, including the National Defense Service, Korean Service, United Nations, Prisoner of War, and Service medals (Korea).
Excerpts of interviews with Bob Calvillo were also contributed by David to place Bob’s story into the halls of perpetuity.

Article by S. Moncalieri, Gold Country Media. (Feb 26, 2025)
​Photo Credit: Courtesy

With February being halfway over March is Women’s History Month, and International Women’s Day is celebrated on Saturday, March 8th so start thinking now what your Chapter can do to celebrate this day. Do you know of a woman who has contributed to our military or your community, state, or country and has made a positive difference? Remember them in March! 

To add to Katrina's Facebook Post from 12 Feb NCOA was Charted by Congress on 6 April 1988 as a Veteran Service Organization. We do not have Veteran Service Officers anymore but that is still our identity. Out of the 43 Veteran Service Organizations Charted by Congress only 15 of them are part of the Military Coalition and NCOA is the only one that works with all 6 branches of the services.
Veterans Service Organizations | House Committee on Veterans Affairs

The NCOA Rogue Chapter hit the ground running in 2025 presenting NCOA Medallions at a number of events.

​University of Phoenix recently released the following announcement:

University of Phoenix is pleased to collaborate with the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) to offer one (1) full tuition scholarship to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree.

NCOA is a federally-chartered non-profit established in 1960 to enhance the quality of life for Noncommissioned and Petty Officers in all branches of the Armed Forces, Military Retirees, Veterans, Spouses, and Survivors. NCOA proudly represents 17.9 million Enlisted Veterans and 1.8 million Active Duty Service Members and their family members, and advocates for their rights on Capitol Hill while promoting unity through education, benefits, and community support.

University of Phoenix understands the importance of making higher education highly accessible for students of all ages and backgrounds. We take very seriously our social responsibility to our students and the communities we serve. University of Phoenix is particularly adept at aiding non-traditional students complete their education by designing programs around their busy lives.

Through this scholarship program, one (1) full-tuition scholarship will be offered. This scholarship will allow a prospective student the opportunity to complete an undergraduate or master’s degree program at University of Phoenix.

The online application for this scholarship will be available on March 1.
​

Lady Vicky Hensley and SGM (Ret) Joseph Terry presented more than 70 NCOA War Medallions at the 38th Annual TET Reunion on Saturday, February 1, 2025,  in Abilene, Texas. The TET Reunion, originally established to commemorate the historic TET Offensive of the Vietnam War, has evolved into a celebration of all U.S. Veterans, regardless of branch or conflict. It’s a time for camaraderie, reflection, and appreciation, where Service Members from every generation can connect over shared experiences.

On January 31, 1968, the TET Offensive marked a significant moment in the Vietnam War. More than 70,000 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces launched a large-scale attack on over 100 cities and towns across South Vietnam. Named after the Vietnamese New Year, known as “TET”, this event changed the course of the war and remains a defining moment in military history.

Whether you served in Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, or any other era, this event reunites all fellow Veterans and honors the sacrifices they made for our country.

A special thank you to Vicky Hensley, White Line Systems, and the Abilene Grunts Association for sponsoring the 70+ War Medallions. If you would like more information on our War Medallions, or would like to present one to a Veteran you know, visit the NCOA Medallion Program at: ncoausa.org/medallion-and-challenge-coin

​NCOA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S INSIGHTS
FEBRUARY 2025
​
Greetings Team NCOA! 
One Member at a Time. Each One Reach One.
Our Membership Goal ....2025 New Members in 2025!

If you are wondering, how can I help the Association? Here is one way to help and quite frankly, it’s easy. Just sign up or sponsor at least 1 new member from any membership category. Let’s do it! I truly believe we will achieve that goal in very short order. We will provide an update each month so everyone will know our progress. I am asking everyone to participate. Help us increase our Association’s membership. The more members we have the more influence we have when seeking support on issues like The Richard Star Act, Tricare Coverage, Adjustments/Amendments to Quality-of-Life Benefits and opportunities for us to partner with sponsors that offer our members exclusive Discounts and Services.

Speaking of benefits, visit the Membership Benefits page on the website for updated list of our partners. We are working on more, so, continue to read the ADVOCATE Newsletter, support us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube, and regularly visit the website for the latest updates. Share this information with those who you will ask to join us. In many cases all it takes is to ask! It doesn’t matter if you are assigned to a chapter, a new member or Life member signing up new members is something we all can do. 

Remember, we represent all branches of the Military - Active Duty, Retired, Veterans, Reservists, National Guardsmen, spouses, siblings, parents, and children (adults 18-years and up) are all potential members.

Other Goals for 2025

• Learn and share information about our Association and the Benefits of joining (Visit www.ncoausa.org)
• Follow us on social media, tag and share with your family and friends
• Assist in supporting / promoting our War Recognition Medallion Program (New Medallion coming soon)
• Start planning now to attend the 2025 NCOA Conference in Norfolk Va.
• Pledge to make at least a $1.00 Donation to our Benevolent Funds Programs – Every Dollar Counts and can make a Difference!!! Consider donating and share the with others:  zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference​

The NCOA Korea Chapter at Camp Humphreys recently participated in a number of events during December in support of several charities to include the Ain Orphanage, the Nazarene Hospital and a bowling event with the severely abused boys shelter. 

Happy 2025, I sincerely hope that everyone had a Joyous Holiday Season and that you're ready to hit deck running in this new year.

We have a change in our government and a location change for our annual conference.   I would ask that you keep our brothers and sisters in the Los Angeles area in your thoughts and prayers.  Please check on your friends and family as the impact of these fires touch many far and near.  Now more then ever is the time to support the goodwill and any organization that provides care and clothing for our fellow citizens who have lost everything.   
 
Great News...our Executive Director and his team, with your support, have designed a beautiful Global Wars on Terrorism Medallion. More to follow. Our Annual Conference is knocking on your door and I look forward to seeing you in Norfolk and hearing about the great things you and your chapters have accomplished. 

The NCOA is strong and only getting stronger!
​
Strength in Unity!®
​Garry A. McClure
FORCM, USN (Ret)
NCOA President

Rogue Chapter Chairman Terry Haines assisted by trustee David Haines presented a Korean Medallion to Air Force veteran Darrel Crain.
 
They also presented Vietnam Medallions to Army veteran Dennis Eubanks and Navy veteran Ken Earl.  All presentations took place at a veteran's breakfast in Medford, OR. 

On Monday, December 30, NCOA Board Member Sir Ted Pilihos presented 7 Vietnam Medallions to family and friends of Vietnam Veterans.  

NCOA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S INSIGHTS
JANUARY 2025

​Happy New Year! Our theme for 2025 will continue, One Member at a Time. Each One Reach One. Our Membership Goal will be ....2025 New Members! Some of you may be asking yourselves, is that a typo, or did Joe drink too much eggnog for Christmas? LOL.
 
Neither is true. This is very achievable if all of us do our part. As I have repeated year after year, if each of us signs up at least one new member in any category we would blow that 2025 New Member number out of the water! I genuinely believe we can achieve that in short order. We will provide an update each month so everyone can see our progress. I am asking everyone to participate. Many hands make the load lighter!
 
When I tell people we represent the Total Force, they tend to ask, “how many members do you have?’ Our numbers do not reflect our representing the Total Force. We are well under 100,000 Members. You can help us fix this! All you need to do is get off the sidelines and act! You can help, whether you are affiliated with a chapter, a new member, or a Life member. 
 
Start by implementing your own Chapter Membership Drives and establish Incentives for those that sign up new members. A few chapters are already doing this; however, we need more chapters and those not assigned to a chapter to sign up new members. It doesn't matter if your chapter has 5 members or 500 members, your efforts still can make a difference. Host a “bring a friend” meeting. Encourage members to bring someone to see how your organization operates. Host a family-friendly event. Spouses, siblings, parents, and (grown-up) children are all potential members showing your organization is family-oriented and is a potential attracting point for new members! Additional information to follow via email and social media.

​Other Goals for 2025

• Learn and share information about our Association and the Benefits of joining (Visit www.ncoausa.org)
• Pledge to sign up and or sponsor at least 1 New Member in 2025
• Assist in supporting and promoting the War Recognition Medallion Program
• Start planning now to attend the 2025 NCOA Conference in Norfolk Va.
• Pledge to make at least a $1.00 donation to our Benevolent Funds Programs – Every Dollar Counts and Makes a Difference!! Consider donating and share the information with others:  https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference

From the Desk of the NCOA Chairman of the Board of Directors Robert Barnett

I hope that all of you had a wonderful Holiday season. Congratulations to the Navy Midshipman on their win in college football over the Army Golden Knights.

In January your Board of Directors will be finishing up changes to the NCOA Bylaws and Awards Manual. You can look for them to be posted on the website for your review, giving you the opportunity to provide comments. This will allow more time for review unlike in the past when changes were presented at the Annual Conference leaving members very little time to review these items before being asked to vote on changes. The Board does want your input so please take the time to read content and respond.

With the Annual Conference now just 195 days away, I hope you are making plans to
attend. For the first time, the Conference will be held in the Virginia Beach area which is
exciting. The NCOA Staff will be making a trip to the area in the spring looking for great
opportunities around the area to share with the rest of us.

As always, I am open to any questions you have about the Board. You can reach me
by email at [email protected].

Happy holidays to you and your families. However you celebrate the holiday season, I hope it brings comfort and calm. As we enjoy this time, I encourage you to keep in mind those who may be having a tough season. Every year, I drive around and hand out jackets to homeless individuals, along with a $10 gift card for a hot meal and coffee. Even small acts of kindness can make a difference for someone in need.

Recently, I joined our NCOA team at Arlington National Cemetery for a wreath-laying ceremony. Standing alongside other Military and Veteran Service Organizations, we honored those who came before us. It was a reminder of the strength and unity our community shares when we come together.
​
Our work continues as we build on the NCOA mission. Please remember that our “Each One, Reach One” membership campaign runs until December 31. By bringing in just one new member, you’ll receive an NCOA Lapel Pin and help our organization grow stronger. Through our combined efforts, we can better serve our members, advocate for their needs, and keep our community moving forward into the new year.

​Thank you for being part of the NCOA, and best wishes for a peaceful holiday season.

​Garry A. McClure
FORCM, USN (Ret)
NCOA President

Rogue Chapter Chairman Terry Haines assisted by Trustee & Treasurer David Haines and member, Chaplain Norman Morgan, presented NCOA Vietnam War Medallions to Air Force veteran Carolyn Whitney, Army National Guard veteran Frank Helgeson, Army veterans Ben Stoner, Damiano Cusumano, John Trusty and Larry Hanlon, Marine veteran Dan Hayes and Navy veterans Russ Beem and Skip Welles. The presentations took place at the monthly veteran's breakfast in Grants Pass, OR. As a result of these presentations, we recruited 8 new members, 5 of which had received Medallions.