Levi Sadr, NCOA Director of Government Affairs, met with Gus Bilirakis to discuss the importance of the Major Richard Star Act and concurrent receipt legislation.
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To our combat disabled Veterans and supporters of the Richard Star Act, please know this work continues every day. NCOA remains committed to fighting for the full benefits you earned through your service. We appreciate Congressman Bilirakis for standing with our community and continuing to champion this critical legislation.

The Non Commissioned Officers Association remains focused on advocating for policies that protect the rights, benefits, and well being of enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. Our legislative priorities are guided by the real needs of those who have served and continue to serve. These priorities shape our advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and through our work with The Military Coalition.

Richard Star Act
The Richard Star Act would allow medically retired, combat disabled Veterans with fewer than 20 years of service to receive both full military retirement pay and VA disability compensation. These benefits were earned through service and sacrifice and should not be reduced or offset.

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
NCOA continues to advocate for expanded access to mental health care, improved support systems, and policies that address suicide within the Military and Veteran community. Mental health must remain a national priority.

Love Lives On Act
This legislation would remove the remarriage penalty for surviving spouses, allowing them to remarry without losing survivor benefits earned through their loved one’s service.

NOPAIN for Veterans Act
The NOPAIN for Veterans Act supports expanded access to non opioid pain management treatments within the VA healthcare system, giving Veterans more options for safe and effective care.

Veteran Toxic Exposure
NCOA supports continued accountability and oversight related to toxic exposure, ensuring Veterans receive timely health care, recognition, and benefits for service connected illnesses.
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These priorities represent our commitment to protecting those who have served and ensuring their voices are heard. Stay engaged with NCOA advocacy efforts by maintaining your membership and responding to legislative action alerts.

NCOA is seeking volunteers to represent our Association on the Personnel Committee within The Military Coalition (TMC). TMC is a group of 35 Military, Veteran, and Uniformed Services Organizations working together to protect benefits and support the well being of those who serve, have served, and their Families.

Being part of The Military Coalition strengthens NCOA’s ability to advocate for enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. Through coordinated advocacy and unified legislative priorities, TMC helps amplify the voices of more than 5.5 million members and their Families nationwide.

At this time, NCOA is seeking one or two volunteers, including at least one Family Member if possible, to serve on the Personnel Committee. Volunteers will participate in discussions and review legislative issues related to Military pay, benefits, readiness, and quality of life.

As NCOA looks ahead, increasing member involvement in legislative advocacy is a top priority. Serving on the Personnel Committee is a meaningful way to directly support that effort.

About The Military Coalition Committees:
​The Military Coalition operates several standing committees that meet regularly to review legislation and coordinate advocacy efforts. While NCOA is currently seeking volunteers only for the Personnel Committee, members may find it helpful to be aware of the full committee structure.
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• Guard and Reserve Committee
• Health Care Committee
• Personnel Committee
• Retired Affairs Committee
• Survivor Committee
• Taxes and Social Security Committee
• Veterans Committee

Members interested in volunteering for the Personnel Committee should email [email protected] and include “TMC Personnel Committee Volunteer” in the subject line.

Two members of the Air Academy Chapter shared write ups on their experience supporting TAPS Advocacy Week on Capitol Hill. Their voices shed light on the realities that surviving Families carry every day and remind us that advocacy does not end when the event concludes.

Ashley Gardner, USAF Reserve Veteran from Colorado Springs, wrote about joining survivors and fellow advocates for two full days of meetings across the House and Senate. She shared how listening to the stories of surviving spouses changed the way she views legislative work and how meaningful it was to support survivors as they spoke about the challenges they face. Ashley also highlighted Service Members who traveled with the chapter and left inspired to continue advocating for others.

MSG Johnson, Active Duty Service Member and new member of the Air Academy Chapter, wrote about the responsibility he felt walking alongside surviving spouses and speaking on behalf of Families who no longer have a voice. He shared that the experience was deeply personal and reinforced that caring for surviving Families is a responsibility that continues long after leaving the uniformed ranks.

Ashley and MSG Johnson’s accounts reflect an important truth. TAPS Advocacy Week may take place once a year, but survivors live with their loss every day. Their needs do not wait for the next event, and their stories must continue to be shared. NCOA is proud of the Air Academy Chapter for showing up, listening, and carrying this work forward with compassion and purpose.

If you are interested in volunteering with the NCOA Legislative Resolution Team and helping shape the future for enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families, join the team that stands up for those who serve. Whether you are Active Duty, Retired, or a Veteran, your voice can influence real policy on pay, benefits, and accountability.

Send an email to [email protected] and add “Legislative Resolution Team Volunteer” in the subject line.

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

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

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

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

Resources for Service Members and Veterans Affected by the Shutdown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On 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.

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.

Board nominations due
Individuals wishing to nominate a person for a position to be filled on Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) International Board of Directors must submit nomination packets not later than May 30. Nomination packages should contain a short biographical sketch that will be placed on the NCOA website, a head and shoulders photo and information about the nominee’s NCOA and community involvement.  Nomination packets, or requests for more information, should be addressed to NCOA, Attn: Tina Kish, P.O. Box 33790, San Antonio, TX 78265 or via e-mail to [email protected]. Elections will take place Wednesday, July 16 at the Association’s Annual Membership Business Meeting. Members must be present to cast a ballot.

Auxiliary Seeks Nominations
Auxiliary members wishing to nominate a person for a position to be filled on the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) International Auxiliary Board of Directors must submit their nomination packets to NCOA Headquarters not later than May 30. Nomination packages should contain a short biographical sketch that will be placed on the NCOA website, a head and shoulders photo and information about the nominee’s NCOA Auxiliary and community involvement. Auxiliary members wishing to nominate an individual, or receive additional information, should contact Tina Kish, NCOA International Auxiliary Liaison, P.O. Box 33790, San Antonio, TX  78265 or via e-mail to [email protected]. Elections will take place Wednesday, July 16 at the Auxiliary’s Annual Membership Business Meeting.

Association Resolutions Due
Chapters or individuals with resolutions to submit on subjects for consideration by the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) International Board of Directors and the general membership at the 2025 Annual Membership Business Meeting must submit the resolution not later than May 30 to Levi Sadr, NCOA Director of Government Affairs via e-mail to [email protected].

For more information, email: [email protected].
​Add “Legislative Resolution Team Volunteer” in subject line. See below for details.