Greetings Team!

There is a lot happening right now across our Military and Veteran Community and around the world. During times like these it is important that we stay connected, stay informed, and continue supporting one another. Please check in on your fellow Veterans, neighbors, and Chapter members when you can. A quick call or message can make a difference.

Below are a few updates and items where we need your help getting the word out.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE – TOP 5 PRIORITIES
Please continue sharing our 2026 Legislative Priorities with others. These include the Major Richard Star Act, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, the NOPAIN for Veterans Act, the Love Lives On Act, and Veteran Toxic Exposure. These issues directly impact Enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. You can review and share the full list here: ncoausa.org/news/2026-legislative-priorities

If you are interested in helping with our Legislative efforts, please consider volunteering with the NCOA Legislative Committee. Reach out to [email protected] for more information.

WAR MEDALLION PROGRAM
Thank you to the Chapters and individuals who continue supporting the NCOA War Medallion Program. These presentations are meaningful moments for Veterans and their Families. When possible, please record a short video (30–60 seconds) during your presentation using your cell phone and share it with us so we can highlight these recognitions with others.

You can review the Medallion Flipbook here: simplebooklet.com/ncoamedallionprogram

NCOA CONFERENCE – 21–24 JULY, NORFOLK, VA
Please plan now to attend the NCOA Annual Conference in Norfolk, Virginia. We encourage Chapters to send at least one Chapter Officer and one Member. This is an opportunity to share ideas, learn from one another, and continue strengthening our Association.

If you know of any organizations or businesses that may be interested in sponsoring the conference, please send their contact information to me.

More information: ncoausa.org/conference

MEMBERSHIP – HELP US GROW
Our members are the strength of this Association. I am personally asking each of you to encourage someone to join or gift a membership to someone who would benefit from being part of the NCOA.

The “I Recruit for NCOA” Lapel Pin Challenge continues. Recruit two new members and receive the NCOA Recruiting Pin and Decal. Send the names or applications to [email protected] so we can verify.

Chapters are also participating in the Chapter Membership Challenge (1 Jan – 31 May 2026). The Chapter that signs up the most new members will receive two Conference Registrations. Chapters must recruit a minimum of 25 new members to be eligible.

STAY CONNECTED AND SHARE OUR MISSION
Please continue sharing NCOA resources and opportunities with others. Review the benefits of joining the NCOA here: ncoausa.org/faq
​
Support the “One Dollar Can Make a Difference” campaign:
zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference

Every member, every conversation, and every action helps strengthen the voice of the Enlisted.

Greetings Team!

As we continue to ask what you are doing for the Association, I thought I would give a snapshot of some of what we have going on.

Legislative Update - Top 5 Priorities: Major Richard Star Act; Mental Health and Suicide Prevention; NOPAIN for Veterans Act; Love Lives Act; Veterans Toxic Exposure. Visit ncoausa.org/news/2026-legislative-priorities

New Partners: Corporate Gray; Check-A- VET; Military Air; PUPTQUE (Pending); Spouse-Ly
(Pending); 1-800 FLOWERS (Pending).

Updating how we market our NCOA War Medallion Program (We will keep you updated).

We are the host for the 2027 VDNC Reception (We will be asking for Volunteers for a Committee
soon) More to follow.

We are seeking ways to attract Active-Duty Service Members and retain our current members. On this note, I am asking you all to get involved with your Chapter and or Community activities near you. (We welcome your ideas).

*** For those that are unsure about joining as a Premium Member, ask them to join as an ADVOCATE. It’s free! Visit votervoice.net/NCOA/Register

Links to visit below:
NCOA War Medallion Program: simplebooklet.com/ncoamedallionprogram (Review and Share).

NCOA Annual Conference: ncoausa.org/conference (Open to all members and non-members)

Enter the Fightcamp Raffle: zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/fight-camp-raffle--2026 (Open to all members and non-members)

What are the benefits of joining the NCOA: ncoausa.org/faq Review for self and share with those that are not members.

How can you support the NCOA: zeffy.com/donation-form/one-dollar-can-make-a-difference (Open to all members and non-members)

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

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.

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.

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,

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

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.

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

​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.

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:

1. Step 1: Sign up one new member between May 19, 2025 and July 21, 2025.
2. Step 2: Once the new member joins, email [email protected] to validate their membership.
3. Step 3: After validation, you’ll receive an exclusive NCOA Executive Director’s Coin for Excellence as a token of appreciation for your support in growing our association.
4. Step 4: Coins will be mailed after the 2025 Annual Conference.

Why Participate?
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.

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].

​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​