 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.  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. Strength in Unity  1 NOVEMBER 2025 MESSAGE FROM HEADQUARTERS 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! Strength in Unity® Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content  The Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) is honoring Veterans Appreciation Month with a challenge that celebrates the heart of our Association, our members. Throughout November, members who recruit two new NCOA members will receive a limited-edition NCOA Recruiter Lapel Pin that reads “I Recruit for NCOA.” Only 25 pins are available, making this a special recognition for those who go above and beyond to help our Association grow. To qualify, send a copy of the new member applications or the names of those who joined online to [email protected] for verification. Each new member strengthens our shared mission to support enlisted service members and their families. Let’s continue building the NCOA community, one member at a time. Strength in Unity  On October 6, 2025, The Washington Post published an article by Craig Whitlock, Lisa Rein, and Caitlin Gilbert that claimed the Department of Veterans Affairs’ disability benefits program is being “exploited.” The article has drawn widespread concern from the military and veteran community for its misleading portrayal of veterans and their service-earned benefits. The Non Commissioned Officers Association stands firmly with our fellow veteran service organizations in publicly condemning the article’s framing and its damaging suggestion that veterans are “gaming the system.” While we agree that fraud and abuse have no place in the VA system, it is misleading and harmful to suggest that isolated cases represent the larger veteran population. The overwhelming majority of veterans are honest men and women who served their country with honor and continue to live with the lasting physical and mental effects of that service. To imply that veterans are collectively taking advantage of the system dismisses years of sacrifice and ignores the real reasons claims have increased. Those reasons include decades of war, multiple deployments, and advances in medical understanding of invisible wounds and long-term service-related conditions. It also reflects a long-overdue recognition of conditions that went unaddressed for generations. Many Vietnam veterans, for example, did not begin receiving comprehensive care until the 1990s or 2000s, and some still have not received the support they deserve. This kind of reporting damages more than public perception. It harms the trust between our nation and those who defend it. It reinforces stigma against veterans with unseen injuries and discourages others from seeking the help they need. NCOA remains committed to ensuring that enlisted service members, veterans, and their families are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. In our official response sent to the editors of The Washington Post, NCOA calls for fair and responsible reporting that honors the service and integrity of our nation’s veterans rather than undermining public trust. You can read NCOA’s full response letter that was sent to The Washington Post, below. Strength in Unity® Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content  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.
 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.  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.  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. 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 On June 12th, the NCOA, alongside The Military Coalition, was honored to be a part of the first-ever Seersucker Social, marking National Seersucker Day. The event was more than just a celebration of tradition, it was a powerful gathering of advocates, Congressional leaders, and Military and Veteran Support Organizations, all united in our shared mission to support Service Members, Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors. This special event served as a reminder of our collective commitment to advancing policies that honor the sacrifices made by our Military community. We thank everyone who participated and continue to work tirelessly to ensure the needs of our heroes are met.  Members of the NCOA,
Look at how fast the month of June came upon us. The Month of June is rich in military history, with several significant events and anniversaries. Some notable occurrences include D-Day, the Women's Armed Services Integration Act, the founding of the U.S. Army, the start of the Korean War, and much more. Know that this is a great time to dive deep into our military history. As we are less that a month out from our annual Business Meeting the changes to our conference have been felt across the NCOA. Just know that we now have more time to make 2026 bigger and better than ever. Please keep in mind that your support is needed in promoting the goals of the NCOA and all of its programs. Please share what you think about our new Medallions. Personally, I love them and feel honored to be able to award them to the many deserving that are eligible. Enjoy the rest of the month and I will see you in the field. Strength in Unity!® Garry A. McClure FORCM, USN (Ret) NCOA President  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 Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content.  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. Together, we can make a lasting impact. Let’s do this — together!
 University of Phoenix recently released the following announcement: University of Phoenix is pleased to collaborate with the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) to offer one (1) full tuition scholarship to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree. NCOA is a federally-chartered non-profit established in 1960 to enhance the quality of life for Noncommissioned and Petty Officers in all branches of the Armed Forces, Military Retirees, Veterans, Spouses, and Survivors. NCOA proudly represents 17.9 million Enlisted Veterans and 1.8 million Active Duty Service Members and their family members, and advocates for their rights on Capitol Hill while promoting unity through education, benefits, and community support. University of Phoenix understands the importance of making higher education highly accessible for students of all ages and backgrounds. We take very seriously our social responsibility to our students and the communities we serve. University of Phoenix is particularly adept at aiding non-traditional students complete their education by designing programs around their busy lives. Through this scholarship program, one (1) full-tuition scholarship will be offered. This scholarship will allow a prospective student the opportunity to complete an undergraduate or master’s degree program at University of Phoenix. Click here to go to application.  This year, we’re aiming for 2025 new members by the end of 2025! It's an ambitious goal, but entirely within reach if each of us signs up just one more person. Whether you're a new supporter, a chapter leader, or a life member, we need your help to strengthen our representation of the Enlisted force. As the saying goes, “many hands make light work,” and uniting under the NCOA banner amplifies every voice. Ready to Pitch In? Recruit one new member and join our mission to highlight the true power of the NCOA, one member at a time. You might be surprised how often people say “yes” when you simply ask. Let’s harness that willingness and watch our ranks grow. For more info on this campaign and ways to get involved, visit our website at ncoausa.org/join, or follow us on social media at facebook.com/ncoausa. Everyone is needed in order to achieve our goal. Together, we’ll make 2025 a year of real momentum for the NCOA. New members can join online at memberplanet.com/ncoa Or visit ncoausa.org/join to download application Email applications to [email protected] Mail applications to NCOA HQ 9330 Corporate Drive, Suite 708, Selma, TX 78154 STRENGTH IN UNITY®
 Happy 2025, I sincerely hope that everyone had a Joyous Holiday Season and that you're ready to hit deck running in this new year.
We have a change in our government and a location change for our annual conference. I would ask that you keep our brothers and sisters in the Los Angeles area in your thoughts and prayers. Please check on your friends and family as the impact of these fires touch many far and near. Now more then ever is the time to support the goodwill and any organization that provides care and clothing for our fellow citizens who have lost everything. Great News...our Executive Director and his team, with your support, have designed a beautiful Global Wars on Terrorism Medallion. More to follow. Our Annual Conference is knocking on your door and I look forward to seeing you in Norfolk and hearing about the great things you and your chapters have accomplished. The NCOA is strong and only getting stronger! Strength in Unity!® Garry A. McClure FORCM, USN (Ret) NCOA President  San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg welcomes NCOA delegates to San Antonio for NCOA's 2024 Annual Conference and Vanguard Awards Tribute held July 16-19, 2024, in San Antonio, TX.
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