From the Desk of the Chairman,

During the month of March, we recognize Women’s History Month, and International Women’s Day.  It is a time to honor the successes and sacrifices of all women during this time. Do you know of a woman who has contributed to our military or your community, state, or country making a positive difference?  Remember them in March! 

Daylight Savings Time is just around the corner on March 8th, springing forward with more daylight naturally. It will be a time to start spending more time outside. Be safe, be aware, and stay hydrated.

The Medallion Program is doing well, but we could use more members to get involved in presenting them.  Please consider getting your chapter, friends and family members involved with funding this program to recognize the great heroes.

The Conference will be here before you know it, 21 – 24 July 2026.  I hope you are making plans now to join us in Norfolk, VA. Maybe even make it a family event or vacation.

The Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) has formally submitted a Statement for the Record to Congressional leadership expressing strong opposition to the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Interim Final Rule titled “Evaluative Rating: Impact of Medication” (RIN 2900-AS49).

The rule, issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs, allows disability evaluations to consider the effects of medication when determining compensation levels for service-connected conditions.

NCOA believes this approach is fundamentally flawed and inconsistent with the purpose of disability compensation.

What the Rule Does

The Interim Final Rule permits disability ratings to reflect symptom suppression achieved through medication rather than the underlying service-connected injury or trauma.

In practical terms, this means a Veteran whose symptoms are partially managed through medication could potentially receive a lower disability rating than one who is untreated, even though the underlying injury remains unchanged.

NCOA maintains that medication manages symptoms. It does not erase the injury, reverse neurological damage, repair joints, or undo psychological trauma sustained in service.

Our Position

Veterans enter service whole.

Any lasting physical or psychological degradation at separation is service-connected loss. Disability compensation exists to recognize and offset that loss.

Medication is introduced after injury. It does not restore a Veteran to pre-service condition. Treating medication use as evidence of reduced disability conflates management with recovery.

Disability compensation must reflect the injury itself, not how effectively symptoms are masked.

Why This Rule Raises Serious Concerns

NCOA’s formal submission outlines several critical concerns:

1. It Penalizes Treatment Compliance
Veterans should never feel pressure to avoid medication out of fear that symptom improvement could reduce compensation.

2. It Misrepresents Disability
Service-connected disability reflects long-term injury and functional impact, not temporary symptom presentation.

3. It Undermines Trust
The VA system is intended to be non-adversarial and Veteran-centric. Policies that appear to reduce compensation based on treatment erode confidence in that system.

4. It Bypasses Proper Rulemaking Process

Under the Administrative Procedure Act, Interim Final Rules may bypass traditional notice-and-comment procedures only under narrow circumstances. NCOA has raised concerns that those standards were not met.

The Association has urged Congress to exercise oversight authority and call for full rescission of the rule pending proper notice-and-comment rulemaking.

NCOA is submitting its position to leadership of both the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committees and will participate in the upcoming Joint House and Senate Veterans Service Organization Hearing.

We are also working alongside fellow Veterans Service Organizations to host a comprehensive disability compensation reform conference in mid-March. That effort will focus on transparent, evidence-driven recommendations that:

• Engage Veterans, clinicians, adjudicators, and policymakers
  
  
• Prioritize trust and predictability
  ​
• Ensure reforms improve Veteran outcomes rather than primarily reduce expenditures

The Interim Final Rule is currently on the public record.

Veterans and stakeholders can review the rule and submit public comments through the Federal Register while the comment period remains open.

Access the rule here:
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/17/2026-03068/evaluative-rating-impact-of-medication

NCOs have always been leaders in accountability and standards. Those same qualities matter in civic life.

Silence leaves decisions to others.

Participation ensures perspectives are heard.

NCOA remains committed to working constructively with Congress and the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure that disability compensation policy honors the full cost borne by those who served.

NCOA was honored to attend the 39th Annual TET Reunion hosted by the Abilene Grunts Association and Texas Veterans at the Taylor County Expo Center in Abilene, Texas.

In attendance were Executive Director Sir Joseph Terry, Past Grand Knight Lady Sunny Wirth, and Grand Knight Elect Lady Vicky Hensley. For nearly four decades, the Abilene Grunts Association has organized this annual gathering to honor Veterans from all branches and all eras of service. Originally founded to commemorate the Vietnam War Tet Offensive, the reunion has grown into a meaningful event centered on camaraderie, remembrance, and connection.

During the presentation, Lady Vicky Hensley shared information about the NCOA War Medallion Program, helping attendees learn how NCOA recognizes Service Members and Families for their sacrifice and service. Events like the TET Reunion allow NCOA to connect directly with Veterans and continue our mission of recognizing our past while preparing our future.
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NCOA extends sincere appreciation to the Abilene Grunts Association and Texas Veterans for their continued dedication to honoring those who served.

The Non Commissioned Officers Association is seeking donations to support the presentation of 100 Vietnam War Medallions during the upcoming Vietnam Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony in San Antonio, hosted by the San Antonio Coalition for Veterans and Families on March 28.

These Medallions will be presented to Vietnam era Service Members and to Family Members of those who served and are no longer with us. Each Medallion costs $25 and includes a commemorative presentation tin and message card. While $25 sponsors one Medallion, donations of any amount are welcome and appreciated.

Medallions must be ordered several weeks in advance, and we are working quickly to ensure every deserving Veteran or Family Member is recognized. Contributors will be acknowledged during the ceremony.

This effort reflects NCOA’s commitment to recognizing the service and sacrifice of those who came before us while continuing to prepare the next generation.

How to Support
Donate here: zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference
Learn more about the NCOA War Medallion Program at ncoausa.org/programs
Questions may be directed to [email protected]

Greetings Team!

As we continue to ask what you are doing for the Association, I thought I would give a snapshot of some of what we have going on.

Legislative Update - Top 5 Priorities: Major Richard Star Act; Mental Health and Suicide Prevention; NOPAIN for Veterans Act; Love Lives Act; Veterans Toxic Exposure. Visit ncoausa.org/news/2026-legislative-priorities

New Partners: Corporate Gray; Check-A- VET; Military Air; PUPTQUE (Pending); Spouse-Ly
(Pending); 1-800 FLOWERS (Pending).

Updating how we market our NCOA War Medallion Program (We will keep you updated).

We are the host for the 2027 VDNC Reception (We will be asking for Volunteers for a Committee
soon) More to follow.

We are seeking ways to attract Active-Duty Service Members and retain our current members. On this note, I am asking you all to get involved with your Chapter and or Community activities near you. (We welcome your ideas).

*** For those that are unsure about joining as a Premium Member, ask them to join as an ADVOCATE. It’s free! Visit votervoice.net/NCOA/Register

Links to visit below:
NCOA War Medallion Program: simplebooklet.com/ncoamedallionprogram (Review and Share).

NCOA Annual Conference: ncoausa.org/conference (Open to all members and non-members)

Enter the Fightcamp Raffle: zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/fight-camp-raffle--2026 (Open to all members and non-members)

What are the benefits of joining the NCOA: ncoausa.org/faq Review for self and share with those that are not members.

How can you support the NCOA: zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference (Open to all members and non-members)

As part of NCOA’s partnership with Waldorf University, our members and their immediate family members now have access to expanded education benefits through Waldorf’s Learning Partner Program. These benefits are designed to make earning a degree more affordable, flexible, and accessible for working professionals.
Eligible participants may receive reduced tuition rates on online degree programs, apply for Waldorf’s Learning Partner Scholarship, or take advantage of Fast and Free, which allows first time Waldorf students to take their first course at no cost. Waldorf’s fully online programs offer flexible schedules, no required login times, no additional textbook costs, and personalized support from enrollment through graduation.
Upcoming online terms are approaching, and late registration options are available.
​
Explore your options and learn more:
Reduced tuition programs: https://form.jotform.com/251035612886155
Scholarships: https://waldorf.edu/tuition-financing/scholarships/online-scholarships/
Fast and Free course: https://form.jotform.com/251035103512136

Greetings!
 
We hope you all are doing well. The weather is very bad in many parts of the Country, please keep safe and check in on a buddy and neighbors. Please help us get the word out about the following.

NCOA WAR MEDALLION PROGRAM: I would like, when possible, for you to do a short Video when you make some of your presentations. It can come right from a cell phone and can be as short as 30-60 seconds.
This will help us to not only share with our members but also others that may be interested in supporting the Program. http://simplebooklet.com/ncoamedallionprogram
 
If your Chapter, you or anyone you know would like to order Medallions for the National Vietnam War Veterans Day 29 March, please do so as soon as possible so you will have them on hand. Last year we had orders come in as late as a week before their events. Once ordered, it can take up to 4 weeks to receive the medallions.
 
CONFERENCE  21 – 24 July Norfolk Va. Chapters, plan to send at least 2 Members. 1 Jan 2026 - 31 May 2026 the Chapter that signs up the most, new Members will receive 2 Conference Registrations. Chapter must sign up a minimum of 25 new Members to be eligible. Chapters will need to send a roster of the new members for verification to Headquarters. If you know anyone that would like to be a sponsor for the Conference, please send me their contact information.
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MEMBERSHIP:  Chapter and New Member Campaigns
1 Jan 2026 - 31 May 2026 the Chapter that signs up the most, new Members will receive 2 Conference Registrations. Chapter must sign up a minimum of 25 new Members to be eligible. Chapters will need to send a roster of the new members for verification to Headquarters.
 
I am personally asking each of you to encourage someone to join or gift a membership to someone. In addition, the "I Recruit For NCOA" Lapel Pin Challenge is on. Sign up 2 New Members and receive the Pin and a Decal. Send their names to [email protected] or copy of applications to NCOA HQs. If individual joins online, notify us so we can verify. Also, if a member joins without NCOA Sponsor, the new member can sign up another member and be eligible for the Pin and Decal.
 
MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL: Thank you for renewing your membership with us! We truly appreciate your continued commitment and support. Your renewal helps us further our mission of advocating for our members’ quality of life and for us to continue providing valuable resources and networking opportunities to our members. We are grateful for your continued support.
 
I encourage all of you to help us spread the word about our organization. Invite a fellow Veteran, a Service Member, Family member or a Friend to join the NCOA and become part of our growing community. Learn, share more about the benefits of joining Membership Benefits - NCOA.

New Year Greetings or should I say Gratitudes…

Pondering what I have to say about the start of a new year.  The usual, it’s a time for new beginnings, a time to set new goals, a time to reflect on the past year or what? I choose gratitude this year. I am grateful for my military family history. First, there is my husband’s 22 years in the AF. Then my Dad who spent 20 years in the AF with service in Viet Nam. My Grandfather was lost to WWII in the Philippines, my Uncle served in Korea, my brother served in the Navy, my Aunt & Uncle served in the AF, my very close cousin spent more than 20 years (albeit as an officer – but all is forgiven) in the AF, and now my grandson is serving in the Army at Fort Lewis-McChord (whom my husband and I surprised by knocking on his door Christmas morning!). Only an incredibly young soldier and his wife would be so delighted to see his Grandparents on their military housing doorstep bearing gifts! Ah, the benefits of being retired military -- being able to surprise a soldier because you have a military ID card giving you access to any military base.

Interestingly, I did not grow up surrounded by the military. Instead, I grew up all throughout the mid-west and it wasn’t until I became a civil servant, at the ripe old age of 17, in Omaha, NE, that my passion for enlisted military personnel really started to develop. That’s when I became involved with base activities and programs and opportunities developed for our troops and their families. The key word here is involved.

Who knew that 53 years later, primarily as an NCOA Auxiliary member and as your NCOA International Auxiliary President, I still look for opportunities to support and care for our enlisted military! The many, many ways I and many of you support our past, present and current enlisted force are too vast to mention here. First and foremost is to make sure everyone knows who we are and what we do. I must admit that when I meet young miliary folks who have never even heard of NCOA I am so surprised!  When you are known to live and breathe something you tend to think everyone else does too. Well then, it’s up to me and all of us to make sure they are aware and know they and their families can join us in spreading the word and getting involved.

So, yes, I am grateful to NCOA for the continuing support to our enlisted military personnel through what we have to offer. And, yes, I will do my best to support NCOA in our mission, vision, and values by offering a membership to all those serving, those who have served, and all those who will serve. And, most especially their family members over the age of 18! I know each of you will also do your absolute best as well.

The Non Commissioned Officers Association is excited to announce another FightCamp Raffle, made possible through the continued generosity of our partner, FightCamp. This marks our third FightCamp giveaway, and we are grateful for their ongoing support of the NCOA and the military community.

FightCamp is a connected at home boxing and kickboxing gym that brings professional level training directly to your home. Members gain access to world class boxing and kickboxing trainers, premium equipment, and performance tracking technology designed to measure the speed and intensity of every strike. FightCamp’s ever growing workout library includes boxing, kickboxing, strength and conditioning, and recovery workouts that help keep users focused, engaged, and motivated.

This raffle offers participants the chance to win a complete FightCamp training package valued at $2,000, making it a great opportunity for anyone looking to improve fitness, build strength, or establish a consistent training routine from home.

The FightCamp Package Includes:​

​We thank FightCamp for their partnership and for continuing to provide opportunities that support the wellness and readiness of Service Members, Veterans, and their families.

Levi Sadr, NCOA Director of Government Affairs, met with Gus Bilirakis to discuss the importance of the Major Richard Star Act and concurrent receipt legislation.
​
To our combat disabled Veterans and supporters of the Richard Star Act, please know this work continues every day. NCOA remains committed to fighting for the full benefits you earned through your service. We appreciate Congressman Bilirakis for standing with our community and continuing to champion this critical legislation.

Greetings!

Conference: Mark your calendars for 21 – 24 July Norfolk, VA. Chapters, plan to send at least 2 Members. 1 Jan 2026 - 31 May 2026 the Chapter that signs up the most new Members will receive 2 Conference Registrations. Chapter must sign up a minimum of 25 new Members to be eligible. Chapters will need to send a roster of the new members for verification to Headquarters. If you know anyone that would like to be a sponsor for the Conference, please send me their contact information.
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Membership: Giving Back to the Profession
Being part of your professional association is not just about what you can get; it’s about what you can
give back to the profession. Every member has a responsibility to help build up the association by
contributing to its collective success. This includes sharing knowledge, mentoring others, and working
together to uphold ethical standards and advance professional practices.

I am personally asking each of you to encourage someone to join or gift a membership to someone. In addition, the "I Recruit For NCOA" Lapel Pin Challenge is still going. Sign up 2 New Members and receive the Pin and a Decal. Send their names to [email protected] or copy of applications to NCOA HQs. If individual joins online, notify us so we can verify. Also, if a member joins without NCOA Sponsor, the new member can sign up another member and be eligible for the Pin and Decal.

Membership Renewal: Thank you for renewing your membership with us! We truly appreciate your
continued commitment and support. Your renewal helps us further our mission of advocating for our
members’ quality of life and for us to continue providing valuable resources and networking
opportunities to our members. We are grateful for your continued support.

I encourage all of you to help us spread the word about our organization. Invite a fellow Veteran, a
Service Member, Family member or a Friend to join the NCOA and become part of our growing
community. Learn, share more about the benefits of joining Membership Benefits.

Please check out the ADVOCATE, Website, Facebook and other social media to keep informed,

​Joseph Terry
​SGM, U.S. Army (Ret)
Executive Director
Non Commissioned Officers Association

The NCOA Membership Challenge returns for 2026 with a renewed focus on growing our Association and strengthening the enlisted voice nationwide.

This year long challenge encourages members to recruit new NCOA members and help expand our reach, advocacy power, and programs. Membership growth directly impacts our ability to advocate for legislative priorities, support Benevolent Programs, and serve enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families.

Members who recruit two new NCOA members during the year will be recognized for their efforts and contribute to the long term strength of the Association.

Invite fellow Service Members, Veterans, and supporters to join NCOA and help strengthen our collective voice in 2026.

Who can join:
Regular Division: E-1 thru E-9, Active Duty, Retired, Guard, or Reserve
Veterans Division: All other former Service Members
Associate Division: Supporters of NCOA’s mission
International Auxiliary: Family members (18+) of enlisted Service Members

Recruit two new members and submit their information to NCOA Headquarters to participate in the 2026 Membership Challenge. Send names or applications to [email protected].

Many of NCOA’s Life Members have expressed a desire to continue supporting the Association beyond annual dues. The Vanguard Life Membership Program was created to provide that opportunity.

The Vanguard Life Membership is available exclusively to current Life Members and requires a one time contribution of $100. Members who participate receive additional benefits, including a 20 percent discount on future NCOA Conference registrations, preferred seating and recognition at events, a downloadable Vanguard Life Member card through MemberPlanet, and a special Vanguard Life Membership lapel pin.

Funds raised through the Vanguard Life Membership Program directly support NCOA Benevolent Programs and the Membership Development Program, helping strengthen the Association and assist members in need.
​
How to Join:
Life Members can log into memberplanet.com/ncoa to update their membership status. Members may also mail an NCOA application with a check or money order to Headquarters or contact NCOA Headquarters directly for assistance.

Together We Can! Strength in Unity® Our Members Are Our Strength

2026 Top 5 Legislative Priorities and Legislative Committee
Our Military Coalition Top Five Legislative Priorities have been posted. Please share them with others and consider volunteering for our Legislative Committee. If you are interested, reach out to [email protected].

Individual Membership Challenge
I am personally asking each of you to encourage someone to join NCOA or gift a membership to someone. We are also enhancing the “I Recruit for NCOA” Lapel Pin Challenge. Sign up two new members and receive the lapel pin and a decal.

Please send the names of new members to [email protected] or submit copies of applications to NCOA Headquarters. If an individual joins online, please notify us so we can verify. If a member joins without an NCOA sponsor listed, that new member may recruit another member and still be eligible for the lapel pin.

Chapter Membership Challenge
1 January 2026 through 31 May 2026 - The Chapter that signs up the most new members will receive two Conference registrations. Chapters must sign up a minimum of 25 new members to be eligible. Chapters will need to submit a roster of new members to Headquarters for verification.

NCOA Conference 2026
21 to 24 July in Norfolk, Virginia. Please plan to send at least one Chapter Officer and one Chapter member.

War Medallions Recognition Program
We encourage Chapters and individuals to continue supporting this very worthy program. Please review the Medallion Flipbook and Presentation Guide at simplebooklet.com/ncoamedallionprogram
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One Dollar Can Make a Difference
One dollar may not seem like much, but when combined with the support of our members across the country, it helps fund programs that directly serve enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. These small contributions add up and allow NCOA to respond to needs, support advocacy efforts, and strengthen the work we do every day. Every dollar helps move our mission forward. Visit zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference.

Together We Can! Help Us Double Our Membership
All it will take is for each member to encourage someone to join or gift a membership to someone. Our members are the lifeblood of our organization. You are the reason we do what we do, and you are what keeps our organization running. The more members we have, the greater impact we can make as a Military Service Organization, in our local communities, and in achieving our mission. Let’s all do our part.

From the Desk of the Chairman,

January is the beginning of a new year and in a short seven months, America will celebrate its 250th Birthday. We will also meet in Norfolk, VA for our Annual Conference and Vanguard Award Dinner. New Year’s Day is a day where many of us watch college football, eat more celebratory foods, then recover from New Year’s Eve activities. Along with this, we begin to think about how we want the rest of the year to play out. In January we also remember civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. who is recognized for peacefully confronting the issue of race relations in this country.

I gifted two new memberships for Christmas, it’s never too late to jump on board. Some chapters are offering reduced membership fees and, in case people haven’t compared, the NCOA dues are cheaper than most other organization dues. You can make a difference today. Recruit a regular member or sign up a family member into the auxiliary.

If you have any ideas or suggestions, contact Headquarters or contact me at [email protected]. I can assure you that your leadership will take note.

Robert Barnett
MSgt, USAF (Ret)
Chairman, Board of Directors
Non Commissioned Officers Association ​

The Non Commissioned Officers Association remains focused on advocating for policies that protect the rights, benefits, and well being of enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. Our legislative priorities are guided by the real needs of those who have served and continue to serve. These priorities shape our advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and through our work with The Military Coalition.

Richard Star Act
The Richard Star Act would allow medically retired, combat disabled Veterans with fewer than 20 years of service to receive both full military retirement pay and VA disability compensation. These benefits were earned through service and sacrifice and should not be reduced or offset.

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
NCOA continues to advocate for expanded access to mental health care, improved support systems, and policies that address suicide within the Military and Veteran community. Mental health must remain a national priority.

Love Lives On Act
This legislation would remove the remarriage penalty for surviving spouses, allowing them to remarry without losing survivor benefits earned through their loved one’s service.

NOPAIN for Veterans Act
The NOPAIN for Veterans Act supports expanded access to non opioid pain management treatments within the VA healthcare system, giving Veterans more options for safe and effective care.

Veteran Toxic Exposure
NCOA supports continued accountability and oversight related to toxic exposure, ensuring Veterans receive timely health care, recognition, and benefits for service connected illnesses.
​
These priorities represent our commitment to protecting those who have served and ensuring their voices are heard. Stay engaged with NCOA advocacy efforts by maintaining your membership and responding to legislative action alerts.

NCOA is seeking volunteers to represent our Association on the Personnel Committee within The Military Coalition (TMC). TMC is a group of 35 Military, Veteran, and Uniformed Services Organizations working together to protect benefits and support the well being of those who serve, have served, and their Families.

Being part of The Military Coalition strengthens NCOA’s ability to advocate for enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. Through coordinated advocacy and unified legislative priorities, TMC helps amplify the voices of more than 5.5 million members and their Families nationwide.

At this time, NCOA is seeking one or two volunteers, including at least one Family Member if possible, to serve on the Personnel Committee. Volunteers will participate in discussions and review legislative issues related to Military pay, benefits, readiness, and quality of life.

As NCOA looks ahead, increasing member involvement in legislative advocacy is a top priority. Serving on the Personnel Committee is a meaningful way to directly support that effort.

About The Military Coalition Committees:
​The Military Coalition operates several standing committees that meet regularly to review legislation and coordinate advocacy efforts. While NCOA is currently seeking volunteers only for the Personnel Committee, members may find it helpful to be aware of the full committee structure.
​

• Guard and Reserve Committee
• Health Care Committee
• Personnel Committee
• Retired Affairs Committee
• Survivor Committee
• Taxes and Social Security Committee
• Veterans Committee

Members interested in volunteering for the Personnel Committee should email [email protected] and include “TMC Personnel Committee Volunteer” in the subject line.

Winter is upon us, and with that is dangerous weather in most places throughout the US. Please be extra careful as you are traveling and out and about.
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Have you started thinking about the New Years Resolution yet? Whatever, it may be, best to you on focusing and achieving it. 

As for NCOA, we would like for you all to commit to putting forth an effort in any of the area/s you choose to support and contribute your best effort towards it. 
We will be sending out our Goals and Focus points for 2026 soon. It's not going to be too much different than what you have seen in the past year. Quite frankly, we didn't do so well in some areas, therefore we want to get them back out on the table.

I am asking those who have not yet engaged to step up. Even something as simple as sharing information with your Chapter member, families, and networks helps far more than doing nothing at all. This Association belongs to all of us; we need everyone involved. 
As we move into this next year, here are three areas that are always important to our continued growth:

1. Membership: Membership is the foundation of our Association. It strengthens our voice in Washington and ensures we can continue to support enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their families. By encouraging every member to bring in just one more, we can grow our reach and make sure future generations know they belong here.

2. NCOA War Service Medallion Recognition Program
These Medallions recognize War service while also supporting scholarships for future Veterans children.   ncoausa.org/programs.

3. One Dollar Can Make a Difference Campaign
Even the smallest contributions have a lasting impact. A single dollar can help fund scholarships, provide grants, and deliver disaster relief for Veterans and their families. Every donation adds up and allows us to continue making a difference in the lives of those who have served. Please consider supporting at zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference.

Robert Barnett
MSgt, USAF (Ret)
Chairman, Board of Directors
Non Commissioned Officers Association ​

​Dear NCOA Members and Partners,

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and now we are moving full speed ahead for Christmas! This year is flying by! I have just a few things to share with you and ask for your assistance. Please take a few moments to read and even if you are unable to contribute directly it would be helpful if you would share with others to consider.

GIVING TUESDAY is just a few days away (2 Dec), and I want to personally invite you to consider supporting the mission of the Non Commissioned Officers Association.

NCOA has been a trusted voice for Enlisted Service Members since 1960. We advocate for benefits on Capitol Hill, support families through our scholarship program, and recognize the service and sacrifice of our military community through our programs.

Your support helps us continue this work. Whether it is ten dollars or one hundred, every gift strengthens our ability to serve and represent Enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their families. You can make a contribution at zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference. 

WAR MEDALLION PROGRAM UPDATE: Please check out the link below (Simplebooklet) with information regarding our NCOA War Medallion Program. Consider supporting and help us get the word out far and wide via your email and or social media outlets. You can see presentations of the Medallions on our Facebook pages and website at ncoausa.org.

What a wonderful way to show our "Thank you for Your Service" through our actions! Visit simplebooklet.com/ncoamedallionprogram to access the flipbook. Learn more about all NCOA programs, visit ncoausa.org/programs. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our mission.

Lastly, I wish you all a joyous Holiday Season and Christmas!

Hello Team NCOA!

Thanksgiving is right around the corner! I wish you all the best and remember, it is the one day we don’t have to be ashamed if we eat too much!

What have you done for your Association lately! Have you signed up at
least one new member? Sponsored a new member? Contributed to one of our Benevolent Funds Programs? Sponsored a War Medallion? Contributed to your local chapter hosted events?

No? it’s not too late…. As I have mentioned several times, this Association belongs to all of us and we
need everyone to pitch in to keep us moving in a positive direction.

Membership is key! Now more than ever is an important time for our Service Members and
Families to join an MSO/VSO. We need our voices to be heard loud and clear throughout the
halls of Congress!

Help us by encouraging someone to join, or sponsor a new member. It doesn’t matter if you are a Board Member, Chapter Leader, Auxiliary Member, Knight, Vanguard Life Member or a newly joined member, we want everyone to join us on our effort to sign up new members.

There is still some uncertainty about who can join our Association.

Regular Division: Any individual who serves or served in any branch of the U.S Armed Forces (active
duty, Reserves, National Guard, retired or separated personnel) and held the rank/grade of E-1 through E-
9 at the time of separation from active duty under honorable conditions

Veterans Division: Any individual who served in any branch of the U.S Armed Forces (active duty,
Reserve, National Guard, and retired and separated personnel) who separated with a rank/grade other
than E-1 through E-9.

Associate Division: Any individual who actively supports and aims and goals of the NCOA but is not
eligible for any other categories of membership.

International Auxiliary: Spouses/former spouses, widows/widowers, and family members 18 years of age
or older of individuals whether active duty, separated, veteran, Reserve or National Guard, in grades E-1
through E-9.

Continued Blessings to you all in 2025!
​Strength in Unity®

Two members of the Air Academy Chapter shared write ups on their experience supporting TAPS Advocacy Week on Capitol Hill. Their voices shed light on the realities that surviving Families carry every day and remind us that advocacy does not end when the event concludes.

Ashley Gardner, USAF Reserve Veteran from Colorado Springs, wrote about joining survivors and fellow advocates for two full days of meetings across the House and Senate. She shared how listening to the stories of surviving spouses changed the way she views legislative work and how meaningful it was to support survivors as they spoke about the challenges they face. Ashley also highlighted Service Members who traveled with the chapter and left inspired to continue advocating for others.

MSG Johnson, Active Duty Service Member and new member of the Air Academy Chapter, wrote about the responsibility he felt walking alongside surviving spouses and speaking on behalf of Families who no longer have a voice. He shared that the experience was deeply personal and reinforced that caring for surviving Families is a responsibility that continues long after leaving the uniformed ranks.

Ashley and MSG Johnson’s accounts reflect an important truth. TAPS Advocacy Week may take place once a year, but survivors live with their loss every day. Their needs do not wait for the next event, and their stories must continue to be shared. NCOA is proud of the Air Academy Chapter for showing up, listening, and carrying this work forward with compassion and purpose.

If you are interested in volunteering with the NCOA Legislative Resolution Team and helping shape the future for enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families, join the team that stands up for those who serve. Whether you are Active Duty, Retired, or a Veteran, your voice can influence real policy on pay, benefits, and accountability.

Send an email to [email protected] and add “Legislative Resolution Team Volunteer” in the subject line.