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

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

New Year Greetings or should I say Gratitudes…

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

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

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

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

Greetings!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From the Desk of the Chairman,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

​Dear NCOA Members and Partners,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hello Team NCOA!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NCOA Members,

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

NCOA Members,

Fall, Fall, Fall is here!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Respectfully,

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

NCOA Leaders,

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

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

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

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

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

2. NCOA War Service Medallion Recognition Program
As Veterans Day approaches, we have the opportunity to honor those who served in conflicts throughout history by presenting them or their families with medallions. These presentations recognize their service while also supporting scholarships for future Veterans. Keep in mind that it takes about four weeks to receive shipments, so please order in advance. More information is available at ncoausa.org/programs.

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

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

​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.

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.

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
        
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​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