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.

November marks National Veterans and Military Families Month, a time to honor the service and sacrifice of those who defend our freedom and the families who support them. Veterans Day reminds us that freedom is not free.

The NCOA War Medallion Program offers a meaningful way to say “thank you” to the Veterans in your life. Whether it’s a parent, coworker, mentor, or friend, presenting them with an NCOA War Medallion is a powerful gesture of appreciation and respect.

Each medallion represents a chapter of military history and the service of those who lived it:

World War II
Korean War
Vietnam War
Cold War
Persian Gulf / Global War on Terrorism

These medallions can be presented at home, during community ceremonies, or through local organizations. NCOA can also assist in coordinating presentations to ensure each Veteran receives the recognition they deserve.

A portion of every medallion purchase supports the NCOA Scholarship Fund, which helps provide educational opportunities for the children and grandchildren of Service Members.

To learn more or order medallions, visit ncoausa.org/programs.

For assistance with a ceremony or bulk order, contact [email protected].
​
This Veterans Day, honor a hero in your life with a symbol that carries the weight of gratitude and the spirit of service.

As the government shutdown continues into its second month, the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) stands with The Military Coalition and other Veterans Service Organizations in support of the Pay Our Troops Act, a bill designed to ensure that Service Members continue to receive pay during any lapse in government funding.

Temporary measures have allowed the Pentagon to issue pay during this shutdown, but there is still no permanent safeguard for future funding gaps. The Pay Our Troops Act would change that by guaranteeing that military personnel and their families are never left in financial uncertainty because of political gridlock.

The ongoing shutdown has had wide-reaching effects across the military community. Many families are struggling to make ends meet, and essential quality-of-life programs such as mental health, behavioral health, and family support services have been disrupted or delayed. Veterans’ programs including cemetery maintenance, transition assistance, and suicide prevention efforts have also been affected.

NCOA believes those who defend our nation should never have to question whether their next paycheck will arrive. We are calling on Congress to pass the Pay Our Troops Act and end the shutdown.

Resources for Service Members and Veterans Affected by the Shutdown

Military Aid and Family Assistance
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
Army Emergency Relief
Air Force Aid Society
Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
Military OneSource
Armed Services YMCA
United Service Organizations (USO)

Financial Services Offering Assistance
Navy Federal Credit Union
USAA
Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund
PenFed Credit Union
United States Senate Federal Credit Union

​Department Contingency Plans
Department of Veterans Affairs
Department of Defense
Department of Homeland Security
Department of Health and Human Services

Now more than ever, it is time for our leaders to act decisively and protect those who protect us.

NCOA Members,

A Salute from the Board of Directors and Headquarters Staff for all that you do to support your Association and Local Communities!
 
As we all know, Nov 11th is Veterans Day. Americans pause to honor the brave men and women who have served in our military. Whether it’s a veteran you know personally or heroes you’ll never meet, Veterans Day is a chance to reflect, remember, and show gratitude. Let’s all Honor our Veterans in some way. Let us know about any activities you hosted and or participated in.
 
This month we would like to focus on increasing our membership. You should have already seen the information already about our November Membership challenge Incentive.
 
When you sign up two new members during November, you’ll receive an exclusive NCOA Recruiter Lapel Pin that proudly says, “I Recruit for NCOA.” Visit our Facebook pages and our website www.ncoausa.org for more information.
 
To verify your recruits, email a copy of their membership applications or the names of the members who joined online to [email protected]. You don’t have to contact Headquarters for Applications. Printable application is on website: ncoa_app-06-20.pdf in chapter tools.
 
Share this ADVOCATE Newsletter and invite/encourage others to share as well. In addition, take a look at the Members Benefits page. Membership Benefits - NCOA . Member Benefits are Very important when it comes to asking people to join.
 
Every time we sign up a new member it becomes another vote on Capitol Hill for your Quality-of-Life Issues. Make your voice heard and spread the word "NCOA".
 
Start with Family members, Friends, Work Colleges, Neighbors etc. You can also pay it forward by gifting a membership or asking for sponsorship from sponsors for memberships!
 
Help us grow the NCOA and strengthen our mission to serve enlisted service members, veterans, and their families. Let’s all sign up at least 1 New member and consider the next step by signing up 2 members to receive the “I Recruit for NCOA Lapel Pin.” We are counting on You!

NCOA Members,

Fall, Fall, Fall is here!

Our members are the lifeblood of our organization. You're the reason why we do what we do, and you are what keeps our organization running. The more members we have, the bigger impact we can make on advocacy and the Military Service Organization community as well as your local community and achieve our mission. Be loud and proud of your membership!

Recruitment is just one part of a strong membership base. Member retention is just as important to the maintenance and growth of our organization. 

Please visit our website, Facebook page, Facebook group, and other social media pages to keep up to date on what we are doing. Share the ADVOCATE Newsletter and invite/encourage others to check the information out as well. I am also asking you to review our Members Benefits page.

Consider signing up at least one new member. Our goal is 2500 New Members this year!

Lastly, a friendly reminder of our on-going "One Dollar Can Make a Difference" Campaign. Your contribution of as little as $1.00 will help the NCOA continue to support our benevolent programs, such as Scholarships, Grants, and Disaster Relief. We make a difference in the lives of Veterans and their families. Please click on the link below and a huge THANK YOU for your support.
zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference

NCOA Breast Cancer Awareness Air Fresheners
Greetings NCOA members! We are smack dab in the middle of October already. Not only is October the beginning of the Holiday Season, but this month is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Many of us have experienced breast cancer and/or absolutely know and love someone who has.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, the NCOA has a fundraiser to support the “Bettsy Ross Education Fund.” Each year 8 one-time grants in the amount of $500 are awarded to Auxiliary members. Upon selection NCOA will forward a check on behalf of the applicant to the school of their choice.

The Spirit of Sacramento Auxiliary Chapter provided the seed money to create an air freshener using the pink breast cancer awareness symbol with our Auxiliary Logo imprinted. We are asking for a $5.00 donation for each freshener.  All proceeds will go to support the Bettsy Ross Education Fund. The fresheners have a nice, clean soap smell. The Spirit of Sacramento Chapter will provide these to any chapters participating and ask for the cost to ship them be included with your donation.

Please contact Tammy Sullivan, [email protected] with your order.

The federal budget deadline passed without an agreement, and the government has officially shut down. While lawmakers continue to debate funding, this lapse is already creating uncertainty for Service Members, Retirees, Veterans, and their families.

At NCOA, we are closely monitoring the situation and pressing lawmakers to protect military pay and benefits. Here’s a look at what this shutdown means for our community.

Currently Serving and Families
Active duty personnel will still report for duty, but unless Congress acts, paychecks will stop after October 1. That means October 15 paychecks are at risk until funding is restored.

Routine and elective medical procedures at military facilities could be delayed or canceled, though TRICARE and TRICARE For Life coverage in the private sector will remain available. Pharmacies, commissaries, exchanges, gyms, and child care centers considered essential to readiness will generally stay open, but some facilities may adjust hours or reduce services if civilian staff are furloughed.

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves and temporary duty travel may be delayed unless they are mission-essential. National Guard and Reserve drill weekends could also be canceled, though mobilized members will continue to report.

Military schools will remain open, but extracurricular activities may be canceled if they rely on federal funding. Training led by civilian instructors could be delayed, while contractor-led training may continue if it was funded before the shutdown.

Retirees and Survivors
Retiree pay and Survivor Benefit Plan payments will continue during the shutdown. TRICARE and TRICARE For Life coverage will not be interrupted, and commissaries and exchanges will remain open.

Retirees receiving care at military treatment facilities could see cancellations or delays for non-urgent appointments and elective procedures. Pharmacies will remain open, but with the possibility of reduced hours.

Veterans and the VA
VA hospitals and clinics will remain open, and health care services will continue. VA disability, housing, and education benefits will also keep being paid.

Regional VA offices will close, and programs such as transition assistance, career counseling, and pre-need burial applications will be suspended. Burials will continue at VA cemeteries, but headstone placement and grounds maintenance could face delays.

The VA crisis line (988, press 1) and the main MyVA411 call center will remain operational, along with the VA benefits hotline (1-800-827-1000).

Financial Support During the Shutdown
​Several financial institutions serving the military community, including USAA, are expected to offer zero-interest loans and other relief programs.

Military aid societies are also stepping in. Army Emergency Relief, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Air Force Aid Society, and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance all provide interest-free loans and grants to help during times of financial strain. The American Red Cross Hero Care app can connect families directly with these resources.

Looking Ahead
NCOA will continue to advocate on Capitol Hill for funding that protects Service Members and Veterans from financial hardship. This shutdown is a reminder of why we need a strong voice representing enlisted personnel and their families.

If you are impacted, reach out to your financial institution or a relief agency for help. And please stay connected with NCOA for updates as the situation develops.

​Need help?
Become an NCOA Advocate to get alerts and messages on key bills. Your voice helps shape policy.

Can you believe we are already in the last quarter of 2025? Our Association has experienced tremendous growth and change this year, and I want to take a moment to thank each of you for the role you have played in that progress.

A special thanks goes to all the members who supported our Annual Golf Tournament in San Antonio — job well done!

I would also like to recognize the Colorado Air Academy Chapter for stepping up to accept my challenge and support this year’s TAPS Stomp the Hill. The chapter members, including our Grand Knight Sir Scott L. Ytzen, NCOA Board Member Ashley R. Gardner, and her mother, made a lasting impression on TAPS leadership and the more than 150 Gold Star family members in attendance. Our Director of Government Affairs, Mr. Levi Sadi, set the stage for NCOA’s future engagement with TAPS by delivering clear, impactful legislative insights in the halls of Congress. I encourage more chapters to join us next year for this meaningful event and to gain valuable person-to-person legislative experience.

As we enter the final quarter of the year, I ask that you keep the well-being of your chapter members in mind. With our nation currently facing a government shutdown, checking in on one another is vital — not only for our membership but also for the communities we serve.

Finally, I have had the distinct honor of presenting several of our Medallions while at sea. Each time, I am reminded of the deep pride and joy that comes with recognizing the service of our Active Duty members and Veterans. This tradition continues to embody the heart of the NCOA.

Please take some time to review the TAPS Legislative Priorities for the 119th Congress at taps.org/advocacy.  Change comes when you take the time to write your congressional leader and ask for their support in these important Legislative future bills.

Thank you for all you do to keep our Association strong and united.

Respectfully,

Garry McClure
Force Master Chief (RET), USN
President, Non Commissioned Officers
Association (NCOA)
[email protected]

NCOA Leaders,

Fall is almost here, and I am going to be straightforward with you in this message. I want to start by thanking those of you who have supported our One Dollar Can Make a Difference campaign, our Membership efforts, and the Medallion Program. Your support matters and it does not go unnoticed.

Since we decided to postpone the Conference this year, we have been working hard to keep the Association moving forward. Every bit of help you provide makes a difference. You are the leaders of this Association, and our members will follow your lead. That influence can be positive or negative, which is why I am asking those who have not yet engaged to step up. Even something as simple as sharing information with your Chapters, families, or networks helps far more than doing nothing at all.

I encourage those who have not yet put their hand to the wheel to consider doing so. This Association belongs to all of us, not just a few. We may not be perfect in every decision, but each one is made with the best interests of the Association in mind.

As we move into this next season, I ask that you focus on the three areas that are most important to our continued strength.

1. Each One Reach One Membership Campaign
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
As Veterans Day approaches, we have the opportunity to honor those who served in conflicts throughout history by presenting them or their families with medallions. These presentations recognize their service while also supporting scholarships for future Veterans. Keep in mind that it takes about four weeks to receive shipments, so please order in advance. More information is available at 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.

We are counting on you to help us live our Association motto, Strength in Unity®. Remember, our members are our strength.

Who can contact Congress
Anyone can contact a member of Congress. Offices prioritize people who live in the district or state the member represents. If you are not a constituent, your message may be logged but is less likely to get a direct reply. You can always contact your own House member and both of your U.S. senators.

What your representatives do
Members write and vote on laws, oversee federal agencies and approve funding. Their offices also handle “constituent services,” which includes help with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Defense Department, Social Security and passports. Staff can request status updates, flag delays and explain processes. They cannot force an agency to change a decision, but they can make sure your case is reviewed and handled properly.

Why and when to reach out
- Contact your representatives to:
- Support or oppose a bill, amendment or budget item.
- Share how a policy affects you, your unit or your community.
- Ask for help with a federal agency such as the VA.
- Request a meeting, invite a member to an event or ask for a town hall.
- Provide subject-matter expertise as a veteran, spouse or caregiver.

How to find your representatives
U.S. House: Use the “Find Your Representative” tool at House.gov.
U.S. Senate: Find your two senators at Senate.gov.
State and local: Your state legislature website lists state senators and representatives.
NCOA Action Center: Use our campaigns to send a message in minutes.

How to contact them
Phone: Call the Washington office for votes and policy. Call the district or state office for casework.
Email or web form: Most offices prefer this for policy input.
Mail: Works best for formal letters.
In person: Request a meeting or attend a town hall.
Social media: Good for visibility, but not ideal for casework.

​Tips for an effective message
- Identify yourself as a constituent with your ZIP code.
- State a clear ask: “Please co-sponsor H.R. ####” or “Please support the Major Richard Star Act.”
- Keep it to one issue.
- Use bill numbers when possible.
- Share a brief personal story that shows impact.
- Be respectful and thank the office for its work.
- Ask for a written response, then follow up in one to two weeks if you do not hear back.
- For VA help, include your full name, address, phone, last four of SSN only if requested, and a signed privacy release if the office provides one.

After you reach out
Log the date, office, staff contact and any response. If you asked for help with the VA, respond quickly to any request for documents or a privacy release. Share outcomes with your NCOA chapter so we can track progress.

​Need help?
Become an NCOA Advocate to get alerts and pre-drafted messages on key bills. Your voice helps shape policy.

​Our members are our Strength!

The importance of Membership! Our members are the ones that make the difference. Our members are the reason we continue to fight to preserve and enhance our benefits. It’s because of YOUR sacrifices both past and present.

Our members visit VA Hospitals, help provide Food and Resources to those in need, recognize those that have served in War, raise funds to assist our children with college, send care packages to our Service Members serving in faraway places. These are just a few of the many programs our members support individually and or through their Chapters.

If every current member recruited one person this month, we would hit our 2025 goal early. You can help us achieve this by signing up one person you served with, or a family member or supporter. Each One, Reach One, is how we grow our voice in D.C.

Medallion Program: As we approach Veterans Day, this is a prime opportunity to recognize and honor the brave men and women who have served in conflicts throughout history. Please take a moment to consider how you or your networks can support our Medallion Program. At the very least please share the information with your members and others! 

Lastly, do not wait until the last minute to order any medallions needed because it takes about 3 weeks to get an order in. If you order 100 or more on any of the same types of medallions, we can have them shipped directly to you from the factory.

If you have not already, please visit the news section of our website periodically for updates.  Thank you in advance for your support!

​Please forward this to one person who you think should be a member in the NCOA. A quick share makes a real difference. If your chapter needs help with social media, email [email protected] to set up a quick strategy session.

1) Annual Golf Tournament – Sept 19, 2025 (San Antonio)
If you’re local to JBSA-FSH (or can make the trip), grab a teammate and join us at Fort Sam Houston Golf Course.
When/Where: Fri, Sept 19 • Sign-in 0700–0745 • Shotgun start 0800 • 1050 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209
Format/Cost: 18-hole scramble (4-person teams)

• $70 Active Military • $80 JBSA Golf Club Members • $90 All Others
  Includes: Cart, green fees, snacks, SWAG bag + 2 raffle tickets, 2 mulligans, ball toss, scratch card
  Details & registration: ncoausa.org/golf-tournament
  Questions? SGM (Ret) Joseph Terry • (210) 819-0568 • [email protected]

2) 2026 Annual Conference – Norfolk, Virginia
We’re headed to Norfolk in July 2026 (Sheraton Norfolk Waterside). After this year’s virtual format, we’re looking forward to being back in person where we can connect, learn, and recognize outstanding service across our community.
Save the date and watch for registration/sponsorship details: ncoausa.org/conference

3) Recognize a Veteran: NCOA War Medallions
Veterans Day is around the corner. If someone came to mind just now, consider presenting an NCOA Medallion, or sponsor one for us to present on your behalf.
Available medallions: WWII • Korean War • Vietnam War • Cold War • Persian Gulf/GWOT
Price: $25 each (includes box, card, and shipping)
Why it matters: A portion supports NCOA scholarships.
Order or learn more: ncoausa.org/programs • [email protected]

4) Coming Soon: NCOA Ambassador Program
We’re building a small team of social media ambassadors. This new program will include members and supporters who want to help share NCOA updates, advocacy actions, and events. If you like to post, tell stories, attend events, or highlight wins in your community, raise your hand.
Want to be considered? Email [email protected] with subject “Ambassador” and include your social links.

5) Help Us Grow: Join or Renew
Our advocacy is stronger with you in it. If you haven’t joined yet, or if you know someone who should join, now’s a good time.

• Regular Membership: $30/year
• International Auxiliary (spouses/family/supporters): $20/year
  Join online at ncoausa.org/join or memberplanet.com/ncoa.
  Need help? Email [email protected].

One more ask: If you’re already a member, invite one person this week.
EACH ONE, REACH ONE!
That’s how our voice carries in D.C. and across the country.

👇 Follow us on Social Media!​​ ​👇

​Together with the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), the University of Phoenix has announced Sherwin E. Gloston, a U.S. Navy veteran who served as petty officer third class, as the recipient of the inaugural full-tuition scholarship for a bachelor’s or master’s degree program.

The University of Phoenix Non Commissioned Officers Association scholarship aims to recognize military service commitment and provide opportunities for service members to further their education goals while highlighting veterans' resilience.

Each year, the NCOA recognizes one enlisted member from each of the U.S. Armed Forces for acts of heroism with the prestigious Military Vanguard Award. These exceptional individuals have demonstrated remarkable bravery, saving lives or preventing injury in critical situations. The Vanguard Award is named in honor of enlisted recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor from their respective branches.

SSG Kiana Brantley
978th Military Police Company, Fort Bliss, Texas

We are pleased to announce the 2024 Outstanding Chapters of the Year, selected from our Regional Chapters of the Year for their outstanding contributions to the NCOA mission. Their hard work and dedication have made a real difference in the Veteran community, supporting important programs, raising funds, and ensuring the voices of Enlisted Service Members continue to be heard.