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.

NCOA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE - May 2025
This is Our Association!
         
Hello Team NCOA!
 
Someone asked me the other day, “Who owns NCOA?” My answer, “The members”! We all play a role in our Association. What role have you been taking? What role are you playing in helping us grow, helping us be more relevant, sharing the word about who we are and what we do? Below are some programs where we need YOUR assistance.

Membership: Help us continue to grow by encouraging someone to join or sponsor a new member. It doesn’t matter if you are a Board Member, NCOA Staff Member, Knight, Vanguard Life Member or a newly joined member, we want everyone to join us in our effort to reach our goal of 2025 New Members this year. For those that are renewing, we appreciate your staying on our Team! Membership Recruitment is a critical ongoing process for the health and future of our Association! This is one area everyone can get involved with! At a minimum share the information with family, friends, and other organizations. Check out the incentive we are including for those that sign up a new member in the next couple of months.
 
War Medallions Recognition Program: Check out this story from the Leader of the NCOA Rogue Chapter - “In a little over 2 years, our chapter alone has awarded 929 Vietnam Medallions to veterans and families of Vietnam veterans who have already passed.  I awarded one Medallion to a woman who saw our medallions and inquired as to what they were.  When I showed her the Vietnam Medallion, she started crying and told me that her husband had just passed away the week before from Agent Orange.  I told her that I would love to present a medallion to her to honor her husband’s service so she would have something to share with her family.  She started sobbing and gave me a tight hug and then allowed me to present it in his honor.  When presenting these Medallions, we thank them for their service and tell them “Welcome Home.”" (Sir Terry Haines).
 
A salute to the Rogue Chapter for their support of this very worthy program. There are other Chapters that have stepped up as well; however, we would like to see more chapters and members get involved. Many members asked for the Gulf Wars/GWOT Medallion since it, as well as the Cold War Medallion, is now available.  For more information, visit our website www.ncoausa.org . To order go to https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/non-commissioned-officers-association-of-the-united-states-of-americas-shop
 
Conference: Plan to attend our National Conference 15-18 July in Norfolk. Register Now! For planning purposes we need to get a firm idea of how many will be able to join us in Norfolk. Stay alert for updates as we get closer to the event.
 
Lastly, if you have a better idea of how to reach new members, use and share your ideas with others. Visit all our Social Media Outlets. Thank you in advance for your part in helping us achieve our overall goal of being the Military Service Organization of Choice!
 
Continued Blessings to you all in 2025!
 
Strength in Unity®

Joseph Terry
​SGM, U.S. Army (Ret)
NCOA Executive Director
        
Facebook:
NCOA USA
NCOA Strength In Unity
Instagram:
NCOA1960
​LinkedIn:
NCOAUSA

​Happy May, NCOA Family,

First, I would like to thank all of our members who submitted input and provided recommendations for our new Medallions. A huge shout-out to our amazing headquarters staff for their hard work on our new programs.

I hope you're enjoying our new social media presence as we continue to expand and connect with more of our community.

As we take the month of May to remember and honor our Veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice, I encourage you to pick one day each week to reach out to someone you served with. Your outreach can make a difference and may even save a life.

Our Annual Conference is just around the corner! I hope you're as excited as I am for the event. Norfolk is ready for you and looks forward to showcasing all that the Hampton Roads area has to offer. I’m planning to announce a special "President’s Gift" before the conference... possibly a special raffle!

Today, I had the honor of presenting the NCOA Vietnam War Medallion to Seaman Louis Voorhies aboard the Carnival Valor. Seaman Voorhies served in Operation Eagle Pull, the U.S. Military’s evacuation of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on April 12, 1975. This was a poignant reminder that we have heroes all around us.

Enjoy the month of May, and I’ll see you on the seven seas!


Strength in Unity!®

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

​Spring has sprung! At least it has here in sunny California. Spring is a time of fresh beginnings, hope for a good harvest and hearty growth. What a great segue into the heart of our Association - Membership!
 
Every organization I am involved with is struggling with growth. NCOA is no different, or are we? A lot of us are in the winter of our bloom which means we need to till the fields, plant those seeds, and fertilize and care for our current members. Then we can watch their growth as members and leaders. We all know someone who will benefit by being a bigger part of their communities, by volunteering when called and truly making a difference to our Veterans, past, present, and future. At the same time providing a network for their families with information, scholarships, grants, support, and friendship.
 
Spring is also a time when many of us "Spring Clean."  To that end our local chapters have a new and exciting project this year. We have partnered with a Veterans Homeless Shelter run by Volunteers of America (VOA). We asked what their top three needs were and the answers were surprising. First Need is new men's underwear. Wait, what? We always think of donating warm clothing, like coats, hats, gloves, socks, etc. During the intake process, the VOA provides a welcome bag with a change of clothes and basic hygiene products. Second Need is men's new or used clean jeans. Again, wait, what? We scour local Goodwill’s, thrift and charity shops (and our own closets) for these.  Third Need is coffee, sugar, and creamer. This one made sense as many of these folks have drug and alcohol addictions and if you have ever attended an AA Meeting, a lot of sugared coffee is consumed. Our local chapters meet the first Wednesday of every month and we have all agreed to bring and donate one of these three items before the meeting. I live close to the shelter and can deliver the items the next day. This year as you "Spring Clean" consider donating those jeans, hoodies, sweats, etc., to a homeless Veterans shelter, or for that matter, any homeless shelter.
 
      NCOA's annual conference will be here before we know it! The conference is in Norfolk, VA - 14-18 July 2025. I look forward to the conference every year. It is a time to learn about the annual events of NCOA, learn from a variety of speakers, renew old friendships, make new friendships and further our commitment to our Veterans. Plan to attend and I'll see you there!

Tammy Sullivan
International Auxiliary President
916-718-7750
www.ncoausa.org

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

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

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

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

Other Goals for 2025

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

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

NCOA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S INSIGHTS
JANUARY 2025

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

​Other Goals for 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Team NCOA!

This year is moving along at a fast pace! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Please take the time to celebrate with family and friends. Also, if you are able, reach out to someone that may be in need, especially during this Holiday Season.

NCOA is seeking design ideas for our next War Service Recognition Medallion - The Non Commissioned Officers Association Gulf War and Global War on Terrorism Medallion.

• All artwork must be original. Any submission that is not original artwork will be disqualified (copyright images, computer graphics, etc.).  
• All submissions must be in the format of a PDF or JPG. 
• All colors must be solid. 
• Contest will run from 1 November thru 31 December 2024. All entry submissions must be sent to [email protected].
• The Individual submitting the winning design will receive recognition on all NCOA social media pages and will receive the very first Medallion once designed.  In addition, the individual selected will receive a 2-year complimentary membership which can be transferred to someone else who is eligible to join. 
  
  

Fall Membership Challenge - One Member At A Time - Each One-Reach One! Challenge will run from 15 Oct - 31 Dec 2024.  Sign up a New Member and receive an NCOA Lapel Pin. Application with payment can be sent to NCOA Headquarters, Attn: Joe Terry. If an individual signs up online, we will need their name/sponsor to verify membership.
 
NCOA Chapter Start up - If you or someone you know in your area would like to consider starting up a chapter, please reach out to Ms. Tina Kish or myself and we will be more than happy to assist. It only takes 5 dedicated paid members to get a new chapter started. Email [email protected] or [email protected] for more information.

Consider supporting our Benevolent Funds Programs – Every Dollar Counts and can make a Difference!!!  https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference.
 
As always, thank you for your part in helping us achieve our overall goal of being the Military Service Organization of Choice! One Member at a Time-Each One-Reach One!
 
Strength in Unity®

Joseph Terry, SGM, U.S. Army (Ret)
NCOA Executive Director
9330 Corporate Drive, Suite 708
Selma Texas. 78154

​Facebook: NCOA USA and NCOA Strength In Unity
INSTAGRAM: NCOA1960

Proud to have served. "REMEMBER."
​
I sincerely hope that you and your family enjoyed your Veterans Day and the weekend.  I spent Veterans Day with our Grand Knight Sir Scott Ytzen, Director of Government Affairs Levi Sadr, and some outstanding active duty service members from our Colorado Air Academy Chapter and North Carolina All American Chapter.  A huge thank you goes out for their support in laying the NCOA wreath and proudly carrying our Nation's Flag (CPL Chase Frick) and NCOA Flag (SSG Jarkeveous Williams) during the Veterans Day Ceremony Parade of Colors at Arlington National Cemetery. These young members are the future of our great organization.  Chapters, please be sure to share your Veterans Day experiences with our members via social media.

With Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the new year knocking on our door, I would like to ask that you take some time to think about some past and current friends that you served with and reach out to them just to wish them happy holidays.  Your call, text, or email could change or even save a life.  Please continue to share your chapters' best practices, they are great training tools for our new chapters and members.

Thanks for being a member of our outstanding organization.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Strength in Unity!®
Garry A. McClure
​FORCM, USN (Ret)
NCOA President

​The NCOA and A Bigger Foot Print and Vision.

I would like to share that my prayers have been going up for the many that have been affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.  Please keep lifting your prayers and supporting our friends, family and Chapter Members affected.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Let's support the fight for a cure.

Our Membership drive is a key player in our future success as an organization.  Each person you meet is a potential future NCOA member if you just take the time to share your story and what the NCOA does for our members and everyday Americans.

Membership the lifeblood of OUR Association!

I would like to thank our Director of Government Affairs Levi Sadr and  Stephen Kingsley from the NCOA All American Chapter at Fort Liberty, NC, for joining me at the TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) 2nd Annual TAPS Gold Star Families Advocacy Week. Our support and footprint supporting TAPS and Gold Star family members speaks volumes for what we do as an organization.  It would be a great show of support if each chapter sponsored one or two chapter members from their chapters in support of this advocating event next year. Please come join me and Levi on the Hill.

Today the NCOA remains a vital fraternal, benevolent non-profit organization and acts as a conduit between the military and civilian communities in local areas and promotes positive community relations, as one of the well respected members of the The Military Coalition (TMC).  We need to stay engaged and active in events that support veterans.  The NCOA remains a much needed and vital benevolent non-profit organization - a positive bridge between the military and our civilian communities.

Let's keep the push for change and please continue to share your chapter's best practices.   The holidays and our Annual Conference are right around the corner.  Enjoy the rest of this month and FULL SPEED AHEAD.

Please review the bills below that we advocated for on the Hill.

The month of September is filled with historical and memorable dates. The remarkable moments of 9/11 and how it changed the lives of many. September is also National Suicide Prevention Month - Think about an old friend or someone that you served with and reach out to them... your phone call or message could really save a life. And let's not forget the birth of the Air Force, established on September 18, 1947 - "Aim High... Fly-Fight-Win".

The challenge is still on for new membership and volunteers for the Day on the Hill Event, with Gold Star Family Members, on 23 to 25 September. I plan to join this great event and represent the NCOA. I will be flying from Singapore to attend. Looking to re-energize the Las Vegas area and sprout chapters in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Tokyo, Japan... Fingers Crossed! We have all the tools in place to grow NCOA and add to our voice on the Hill.