 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. Strength in Unity® Joseph Terry SGM, U.S. Army (Ret) NCOA Executive Director Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content.  A practical guide for veterans, service members and familiesWho 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. Strength in Unity® Joseph Terry SGM, U.S. Army (Ret) NCOA Executive Director Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content.  Golf Tournament • 2026 Conference • Medallions • Ambassador Program Thanks for staying connected with NCOA. Here’s what we're up to: 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)
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.
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.
NCOA Announces 2026 Annual Conference in Norfolk, Virginia [San Antonio, July 23, 2025] – The Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) is excited to announce that the 2026 Annual Conference will be held 21-24 July 2026 in Norfolk, Virginia, which was the original planned location for the 2025 event. After transitioning to a virtual format for 2025, the NCOA looks forward to gathering in-person next year to celebrate and honor our Enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their families. The 2026 conference will feature a variety of important sessions, including leadership discussions, networking opportunities, and recognition of outstanding achievements within the military community. It will be an opportunity for NCOA members to come together to share insights, connect, and drive initiatives that shape the future of Veterans’ affairs and benefits. “We truly missed connecting in person during the 2025 virtual conference,” said SGM Joseph Terry, NCOA Executive Director. “The virtual format allowed us to stay connected, but nothing beats the opportunity to meet face-to-face, share experiences, and build lasting connections. We look forward to coming together in 2026 to honor the service and sacrifice of our Service Members while continuing our mission to advocate for the Enlisted force.” Located along the Elizabeth River, the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel offers a convenient downtown location within walking distance to shops and restaurants. For more information, visit www.ncoausa.org/conference. Details on registration and sponsorship packages will be available soon, including registration information. For media inquiries, please contact Joseph Terry at (210) 819-0568 or [email protected]. About NCOA: The Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) is a federally-chartered, Military Service Organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of Enlisted personnel. NCOA represents the Military community on Capitol Hill and with the Veterans Administration, ensuring Enlisted personnel have a voice. Strength in Unity®
👇 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.  The NCOA Columbia Southern Learning Partner Scholarship was established in 2023 and will be given annually to a current member of the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA). This scholarship was developed in partnership between NCOA and Columbia Southern University to provide educational opportunities and to give back to those who give so much. This scholarship covers tuition up to 60 semester hours, or the first credential obtained [associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree]. The scholarship application period will open on 01/02. Applications must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. on 05/03. The selection process will complete on 06/07. Applications will be evaluated exclusively by executive staff members of Columbia Southern University and verified via NCOA. Notification of selection will be made to the awardee within 7 business days upon completion of the selection process and verification by all parties that the awardee is eligible to receive the scholarship.  2025 Vanguard Award Recipients: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. Army Vanguard Award Recipient:SSG Kiana Brantley 978th Military Police Company, Fort Bliss, Texas
Navy Vanguard Award Recipient:AD1 Samuel G. Boyd Fleet Readiness Center Southeast Detachment Mayport, Jacksonville, Florida
USAF Vanguard Award Recipient:SrA Justin Maddich 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye
Coast Guard Vanguard Award Recipient OS3 Ryann G. Thompson Sector Key West Command Center, Key West, Florida
The term Vanguard refers to the leading part of an advancing formation, and these recipients embody the spirit of the Vanguard by moving toward danger, demonstrating courage and selflessness when it matters most. Join us in honoring these brave heroes for their exemplary service and extraordinary acts of valor. Their actions reflect the very best of what it means to serve our nation.  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. 2024 Outstanding Large Chapter of the Year: Rogue Chapter – Central Point, Oregon 2024 Outstanding Small Chapter of the Year: Sunshine State Chapter – New Port Richey, Florida 2024 Outstanding Auxiliary Chapter of the Year: Roguette Auxiliary – Central Point, Oregon In addition to the Outstanding Chapters, we want to honor our 2024 Regional Chapters of the Year. These chapters were selected based on their Annual Chapter Operations Report and dedication to serving their local communities and the NCOA mission. Northeastern Region: Large – Trailblazers Chapter – Flint, MI area Small – Magnum Force Chapter – Saginaw, MI area Central Region: Large – Air Academy Chapter – Colorado Springs, CO area Small – Frontier Chapter – Cheyenne, WY area Southeastern Region: Small – Sunshine State Chapter – Port Richey, FL area Western Region: Large – Rogue Chapter – Medford, OR area Small – Roguette Auxiliary – Medford, OR area We want to thank all these chapters for their incredible efforts and dedication. Your work is inspiring and is helping to ensure that the NCOA continues to grow and make a difference in the lives of Veterans.  Greetings Team! Our organization thrives because of the boundless support and faith instilled by members/supporters like you. Today, I humbly reach out to ask if you would consider donating to empower our programs to continue, and perhaps even expand, their impact. Below are two of the programs we are asking your support of. NCOA has launched our on-going "One Dollar Can Make a Difference" Campaign. You may receive this announcement several times as many of our members are sharing it with everyone they know and maybe some they don't! If you want to honor and support Veterans like we do, it is exciting to share this again and again and again. 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. Join us in our effort to show our Strength in Unity® by supporting our One Dollar Can Make A Difference Campaign! Share this with your, colleagues, friends and family. No Kidding! Donate as little as $1.00! That’s way less than a cup of coffee! I am amazed how easy this was to use and at no cost to the Association. Wow! Please click below to donate, and a huge THANK YOU for your support. Each One Reach One Membership Campaign - GOAL: 2500: We are asking you to encourage someone to join as a new member or encourage someone to renew. You can also sponsor a new member. As I have mentioned in the past, membership numbers are key for us to remain strong in advocating for our Veterans and helps tremendously when we are requesting partners and sponsorships. Join online at or download the application and email/mail it in. Email applications to [email protected] Mail applications to NCOA HQ, 9330 Corporate Drive, Suite 708, Selma, TX 78154 We are counting on your support to bring our Association's motto, Strength in Unity®, to life through meaningful action! Joseph Terry SGM, U.S. Army (Ret) NCOA Executive Director Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content. Strength in Unity®  I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who logged in and attended our 2025 NCOA Annual Conference and Vanguard Awards Presentation, held virtually via Zoom on July 16th and 17th.
As President of the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), I feel it is my duty to personally address and apologize for the tasteless act of Zoom bombing sabotage that occurred during the Vanguard video presentations on 17th. "Shocked" is just one of many words that come to mind. I'm grateful, however, that the disruption did not completely overshadow the purpose of that evening. That evening, we came together to honor five of our nation's finest active-duty service members from each branch of our military. Who, in a moment of extreme danger, selflessly risked their lives to save others. These Vanguards exemplify the very best of what it means to serve. When we made the difficult decision to transition our conference from an in-person event in Norfolk, VA, to a virtual format, our goal was to expand our reach and allow the world to witness and celebrate these heroes, the true Vanguards who walk among us. Unfortunately, by inviting the world in, we also left ourselves vulnerable to those who have no respect for service, sacrifice, or basic human decency. The Zoom bombing that occurred was a shameless and disrespectful act, completely contrary to the values the NCOA stands for. To those who were watching, especially friends, families and any young children who may have been present, I offer my deepest apologies. This incident serves as a painful reminder that we live in a world where some individuals choose chaos over honor. We can only pray for them and commit ourselves to being more vigilant in the future. Our headquarters staff will thoroughly review our virtual event security protocols and take every necessary measure to prevent such disruptions moving forward. Despite this, I urge us all to re-focus what truly matters. Honoring the unwavering dedication, bravery, and sacrifice of our 2025 Vanguard Award recipients. To our Vanguard and your loved ones: This disgraceful act in no way diminishes your valor or the recognition you rightfully deserve. I am proud to call you America's best, and to welcome you as Lifetime Members of the Non Commissioned Officers Association. Thank you for your continued support of the NCOA. Respectfully, Garry McClure Force Master Chief (RET), USN President, Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) [email protected] Focus Point – Virtual Conference - Will you Answer the Call to Action? Please take the time to read this message.  Greetings Team NCOA! We are looking forward to the Virtual Conference. Congratulations to the Outstanding Chapters of the Year: To be announced on the 17th during Virtual. Also thank you to the Chapters and members that contributed to the Parade of Checks thus far, you can also make a pledge during the Virtual Event on the 16th. A shout out to those Sponsors that are staying with us for the Conference next year! We are asking everyone to come and join us during the Virtual Event. The links are Below and posted on the Website and Facebook pages and have been sent to the Chapters Leaders to disseminate as well.
Will you Answer the Call to Action? As mentioned before, I have been asked by our members what they can do to assist the Association. I answer by providing information on several Programs we have on going and ask our members to participate in and support. You can support whether you are affiliated with a Chapter or not. Below are some Programs that I have asked you ALL to support. I have included some remarks as to the status of support. To be frank, except for a few Chapters and Individuals we have had very little poor response to our previous Calls to Action. I am constantly asking for support in membership recruiting and in a few other areas. Below are some data/remarks on how we are doing in some of the areas we would like support from you all in some way. Again, I’m asking you, Will you Answer the Call? Membership Campaign - GOAL: 2500 - As of July 2025; 231 New Members (36 Aux) (196 Regular). That’s way short of our goal! Have you tried just asking someone to join or sponsor 1 member? Medallions Recognition Program- Overall Support (5 Chapters are supporting very well Lead by Oregon Chapters). There is so much room to grow in this program. It’s a program that a majority of our members asked us to expand, and we did. Please visit our website, and I need to know if you plan on making orders so we can prepare to order what’s needed. $ Dollar Can Make A Difference Campaign – Only 3 Donations thus far! (2 of those are Headquarters Staff Donations). This Campaign supports 3 Programs, a minimum $1.00 donation. Even with the card fee that’s less than $2.00s. Please share this Campaign with your contacts. Again, I am asking, Will you Answer the Call to Action? Will you at least share the information with others that may want to assist? We are not asking you to support everything, just support something! Help us show our Association Motto, Strength in Unity® through our Actions! Thank you all in advance for your support! Strength in Unity® Joseph Terry, SGM, U.S. Army (Ret) NCOA Executive Director 9330 Corporate Drive, Suite 708 Selma Texas. 78154 Facebook: NCOAUSA and NCOA-Strength In Unity® Instagram: NCOA1960 Youtube: @NCOAOfficial  The NCOA is excited to invite all members to the NCOA Member Engagement Roundtable on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM CST. This virtual event, hosted via Zoom, is designed to bring together NCOA members, chapter leaders, and key representatives from across the country for an important conversation about the future of our Association and our shared mission. As we work to strengthen our voice and increase our impact on behalf of Enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their families, this roundtable will be a key opportunity to engage directly with NCOA leadership, learn about current initiatives, and discuss how we can all contribute to NCOA's continued growth and success. Why Should You Attend? This meeting is open to all members, but we strongly encourage Chapter Leaders and Representatives to participate. You’ll get a firsthand update on NCOA’s strategic goals, including membership recruitment, the Medallion Program, upcoming conferences, and more. Agenda Highlights - Pledge of Allegiance, Prayer, and NCOA Creed - Welcome and Remarks from NCOA Leadership - Headquarters Update: An overview of the latest initiatives - Membership, Conference, and Medallion Program Updates - Open Session: An opportunity for members to share their ideas and feedback - Closing Remarks This event will provide a collaborative space for members to engage with NCOA leadership, voice their thoughts, and be a part of shaping the direction of the Association. We value your insights and look forward to making real progress together. How to Participate: Click here to join! And make sure to mark your calendars for July 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM CST! Link to Zoom: https://zoom.us/join Meeting ID: 939 2423 0483 Passcode: 421119 Driving Our Mission Forward, TogetherOn June 25th and 26th, 2025, the Gold Star Spouses of America hosted their inaugural Legislative Fly-In and National Convention, uniting over 25 surviving spouses from across the nation. This event allowed surviving spouses to connect directly with policymakers and advocate for their families, ensuring their loved ones’ sacrifices are never forgotten. The event focused on engaging with Congress to advocate for policies that support the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. In just two days, the spouses connected with over 400 congressional offices, demonstrating incredible strength, resilience, and determination. The NCOA was honored to participate, and we are deeply thankful to the volunteers who assisted as escorts, supporting the spouses during their visit. We are committed to continuing our support for Gold Star Spouses and their vital advocacy efforts. *Event photos below  Happy Summer to you all! Conference Reminder: Mark your calendars for 16 and 17 July with a start time of 6PM CST. The Virtual Meetings will be on Facebook Live and Zoom. Invite and links are/will be posted in our ADVOCATE and social media. Please join us and invite a friend. In addition, on 10 July NCOA Headquarters will host a What’s Happening NCOA Round Table via Zoom. You will be able to ask questions and share what you and your chapters are doing. Let's get HOT on Membership: Let's say you just saw a great Movie, purchased a new Car or outfit, got a good discount for a Service. What would be one of the first things you would do, perhaps, tell someone about it? Being part of your professional association is not just about what you can get; it’s also about what you can give back as well. Every member has a responsibility to help build up the association by contributing to its collective success. Ultimately, belonging to and being an active member of a professional association offers immense value. It provides access to educational resources, a supportive and expansive network, leadership development opportunities, and mentorship, which contributes to a professional’s ongoing success. I highly 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 and share about the benefits of joining Membership Benefits - NCOA. Do your part to Support our “Each one Reach one” Goal of 2500 new members this year! Just be excited about your being a member and ASK them to join or gift a One Year Membership to a friend or family member. Some will join just to be a part of an organization you belong to. Thank you all in advance for your support! |
| Chapter Chairman Terry Haines assisted by trustee David Haines presented a Cold War Medallion and a Persian Gulf/Global War on Terror Medallion to Army veteran Steven Arbuckle. |  |
When Lady Vicky Hensley, GKE, learned that Korean War veteran Jake Morse recently graduated from high school in northwest Ohio, she knew she had to provide an NCOA Korean War Medallion.
Hello Team NCOA,
I want to take a moment to update you on some important developments within the NCOA. Although we had originally planned to host our Annual Conference in person this year, unforeseen circumstances have led us to transition to a virtual format. While we will miss seeing you all in person, this change will allow many more members to participate who may not have been able to attend due to travel and accommodation costs.
One key aspect of the virtual conference will be the Parade of Checks, which is an opportunity for chapters and individuals to contribute to our mission and help support the programs that make a difference in the lives of our Veterans. If you or your chapter is interested in participating, we encourage you to send in your donations. You’ll be recognized during the virtual event, and your contribution will make a lasting impact.
I also want to encourage all of you to help us spread the word about our organization. One of the most effective ways you can help is by recruiting new members. Invite a fellow Veteran, a Service Member, or a friend to join the NCOA and become part of our growing community. Even something as simple as liking and sharing our social media posts helps us reach a broader audience, grow our voice, and strengthen our mission. It’s an easy, cost-free way to contribute to our cause.
We also recognize that June 12 is Women Veterans Day. This is a day to celebrate and honor the incredible women who have served our country. We thank you for your service, strength, and dedication, and we stand with you in your ongoing journey.
As we head into the rest of the year, we are excited for what’s to come. The changes happening in Washington right now will affect all of us, and the NCOA will continue to be your voice in D.C. Together, we will advocate for the rights and benefits that every Veteran deserves.
Thank you for your continued support. Let’s make this year’s virtual conference a huge success, and continue to grow and strengthen the NCOA community. Together, we are stronger.
Strength in Unity®
Joseph Terry
SGM, U.S. Army (Ret)
NCOA Executive Director
SGM, U.S. Army (Ret)
NCOA Executive Director
Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content.
| PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 27, 2025 |  |
NCOA 2025 Annual Conference to Transition to Virtual Format
[San Antonio, May 27, 2025] – Due to federal travel restrictions under Presidential Executive Order 14222, the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) will transition its 2025 Annual Conference to a virtual format. Originally scheduled for July 16-19, 2025, in Norfolk, Virginia, the in-person conference will now take place online, with the in-person event rescheduled for 2026.
The signing of Presidential Executive Order 14222 directs the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to “freeze all U.S. federal government and Department of Defense workers’ government credit cards.” Furthermore, the order cancels all non-essential travel unless specifically justified and approved by the respective agency head and DOGE team leader. As a result of these regulations, a significant number of historically anticipated attendees will be unable to travel and support the event.
“We’re disappointed that we can’t gather in person this year, but our commitment to our members and sponsors remains strong,” said Joseph Terry, Executive Director of NCOA. “The virtual format will allow us to continue with key programming, advocacy updates, and recognition for our Enlisted community.”
The virtual conference will include:
NCOA is asking sponsors and registrants to consider:
Details about the virtual conference and registration will be shared soon.
For the latest information, visit ncoausa.org/conference or contact the undersigned at [email protected].
The signing of Presidential Executive Order 14222 directs the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to “freeze all U.S. federal government and Department of Defense workers’ government credit cards.” Furthermore, the order cancels all non-essential travel unless specifically justified and approved by the respective agency head and DOGE team leader. As a result of these regulations, a significant number of historically anticipated attendees will be unable to travel and support the event.
“We’re disappointed that we can’t gather in person this year, but our commitment to our members and sponsors remains strong,” said Joseph Terry, Executive Director of NCOA. “The virtual format will allow us to continue with key programming, advocacy updates, and recognition for our Enlisted community.”
The virtual conference will include:
- Business and Membership Meetings
- Legislative Updates
- Vanguard Awards Presentation
- Parade of Checks
- Chapter and Partner Recognition
NCOA is asking sponsors and registrants to consider:
- Carrying over fees to the 2026 in-person conference
- Donating fees to the NCOA Benevolent Fund, Golf Scholarship Fundraiser, or the War Recognition Medallion Program
- Requesting a full or partial refund
Details about the virtual conference and registration will be shared soon.
For the latest information, visit ncoausa.org/conference or contact the undersigned at [email protected].
Strength in Unity®
 | Joseph Terry SGM, U.S. Army (Ret) NCOA Executive Director |
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Marine veteran Jamel Daniels speaks at a May 21 event in Washington, D.C., supporting the Major Richard Star Act.
Understanding the Major Richard Star Act and Its Impact on Combat-Injured Veterans
The Major Richard Star Act, named in honor of a combat-wounded Veteran, is a pivotal piece of legislation designed to correct an unjust pay offset that impacts thousands of medically retired Service Members. The act aims to ensure that Veterans who were forced to medically retire due to combat-related injuries can receive both their full disability compensation and retirement pay without offset.
How Are Veterans Being Penalized?
Under current law, Veterans who are medically retired due to combat-related injuries do not receive their full retirement pay from the Department of Defense (DoD) if they are also receiving disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This creates an offset, meaning their DoD retirement pay is reduced by the amount they receive from the VA, resulting in some Veterans receiving no retirement benefits at all.
The Benefits of the Major Richard Star Act
The Major Richard Star Act offers Veterans the option to receive both their disability compensation and full retirement pay. Veterans will be able to choose whether to stay in the Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) program or opt-out and receive both VA compensation and the full DoD retirement pay. This choice will provide Veterans with the flexibility to select the best option for their individual needs.
What is CRSC?
The Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) program provides tax-free payments to retired Veterans with combat-related disabilities. To be eligible, Veterans must have at least a 30% disability rating and be retired for a combat-related injury. Veterans can choose CRSC or, with the passage of the Major Richard Star Act, opt for the full retirement pay with VA disability compensation.
The Importance of Advocacy
Veterans who qualify for this benefit need our collective voice to get this bill passed. The NCOA is proud to stand with The Military Coalition and organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project in supporting the Major Richard Star Act.
This bill is a long-overdue fix that would give Veterans the benefits they earned and deserve. It's time to correct this injustice and ensure that combat-wounded Veterans are not penalized for their service.
What You Can Do to Help:
We encourage all Veterans, their families, and supporters to take action and contact their legislators to show support for the Major Richard Star Act. Click below to easily send a message to your representatives.
How Are Veterans Being Penalized?
Under current law, Veterans who are medically retired due to combat-related injuries do not receive their full retirement pay from the Department of Defense (DoD) if they are also receiving disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This creates an offset, meaning their DoD retirement pay is reduced by the amount they receive from the VA, resulting in some Veterans receiving no retirement benefits at all.
The Benefits of the Major Richard Star Act
The Major Richard Star Act offers Veterans the option to receive both their disability compensation and full retirement pay. Veterans will be able to choose whether to stay in the Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) program or opt-out and receive both VA compensation and the full DoD retirement pay. This choice will provide Veterans with the flexibility to select the best option for their individual needs.
What is CRSC?
The Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC) program provides tax-free payments to retired Veterans with combat-related disabilities. To be eligible, Veterans must have at least a 30% disability rating and be retired for a combat-related injury. Veterans can choose CRSC or, with the passage of the Major Richard Star Act, opt for the full retirement pay with VA disability compensation.
The Importance of Advocacy
Veterans who qualify for this benefit need our collective voice to get this bill passed. The NCOA is proud to stand with The Military Coalition and organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project in supporting the Major Richard Star Act.
This bill is a long-overdue fix that would give Veterans the benefits they earned and deserve. It's time to correct this injustice and ensure that combat-wounded Veterans are not penalized for their service.
What You Can Do to Help:
We encourage all Veterans, their families, and supporters to take action and contact their legislators to show support for the Major Richard Star Act. Click below to easily send a message to your representatives.
In the spirit of "Each One, Reach One," we’re excited to announce the 2025 Conference Membership Challenge, starting May 19, 2025! This is your opportunity to help strengthen the NCOA family and make a direct impact on our community by bringing in new members.
Here’s How the Challenge Works:
Membership is at the heart of everything we do at NCOA. Our voice is strongest when we stand together. By participating in the 2025 Conference Membership Challenge, you’re not just helping to grow our numbers, you’re strengthening our collective ability to advocate for Veterans, ensure their voices are heard in D.C., and support our mission of service to those who have served.
This challenge is a great way to not only engage with fellow Veterans and supporters but also to ensure that the NCOA’s voice continues to grow and be heard for years to come.
How to Get Started:
It’s easy to get started! Simply reach out to friends, colleagues, or fellow Veterans who would benefit from being part of the NCOA community and encourage them to join. When they sign up, you’ll be one step closer to earning your Executive Director’s Coin for Excellence.
If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re excited to see the NCOA grow stronger, and we’re even more excited to recognize you for your contribution. Let’s make 2025 the year we truly elevate the power of our community.
For more details or to get involved, please visit ncoausa.org/join.
Here’s How the Challenge Works:
- Step 1: Sign up one new member between May 19, 2025 and July 21, 2025.
- Step 2: Once the new member joins, email [email protected] to validate their membership.
- Step 3: After validation, you’ll receive an exclusive NCOA Executive Director’s Coin for Excellence as a token of appreciation for your support in growing our association.
- Step 4: Coins will be mailed after the 2025 Annual Conference.
Membership is at the heart of everything we do at NCOA. Our voice is strongest when we stand together. By participating in the 2025 Conference Membership Challenge, you’re not just helping to grow our numbers, you’re strengthening our collective ability to advocate for Veterans, ensure their voices are heard in D.C., and support our mission of service to those who have served.
This challenge is a great way to not only engage with fellow Veterans and supporters but also to ensure that the NCOA’s voice continues to grow and be heard for years to come.
How to Get Started:
It’s easy to get started! Simply reach out to friends, colleagues, or fellow Veterans who would benefit from being part of the NCOA community and encourage them to join. When they sign up, you’ll be one step closer to earning your Executive Director’s Coin for Excellence.
If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re excited to see the NCOA grow stronger, and we’re even more excited to recognize you for your contribution. Let’s make 2025 the year we truly elevate the power of our community.
For more details or to get involved, please visit ncoausa.org/join.
Together, we can make a lasting impact. Let’s do this — together!
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