NCOA Announces 2026 Annual Conference in Norfolk, Virginia [San Antonio, July 23, 2025] – The Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) is excited to announce that the 2026 Annual Conference will be held 21-24 July 2026 in Norfolk, Virginia, which was the original planned location for the 2025 event. After transitioning to a virtual format for 2025, the NCOA looks forward to gathering in-person next year to celebrate and honor our Enlisted Service Members, Veterans, and their families. The 2026 conference will feature a variety of important sessions, including leadership discussions, networking opportunities, and recognition of outstanding achievements within the military community. It will be an opportunity for NCOA members to come together to share insights, connect, and drive initiatives that shape the future of Veterans’ affairs and benefits. “We truly missed connecting in person during the 2025 virtual conference,” said SGM Joseph Terry, NCOA Executive Director. “The virtual format allowed us to stay connected, but nothing beats the opportunity to meet face-to-face, share experiences, and build lasting connections. We look forward to coming together in 2026 to honor the service and sacrifice of our Service Members while continuing our mission to advocate for the Enlisted force.” Located along the Elizabeth River, the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel offers a convenient downtown location within walking distance to shops and restaurants. For more information, visit www.ncoausa.org/conference. Details on registration and sponsorship packages will be available soon, including registration information. For media inquiries, please contact Joseph Terry at (210) 819-0568 or [email protected]. About NCOA: The Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) is a federally-chartered, Military Service Organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of Enlisted personnel. NCOA represents the Military community on Capitol Hill and with the Veterans Administration, ensuring Enlisted personnel have a voice. Strength in Unity®
👇 Follow us on Social Media! 👇  2025 Vanguard Award Recipients:Each year, the NCOA recognizes one enlisted member from each of the U.S. Armed Forces for acts of heroism with the prestigious Military Vanguard Award. These exceptional individuals have demonstrated remarkable bravery, saving lives or preventing injury in critical situations. The Vanguard Award is named in honor of enlisted recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor from their respective branches. Army Vanguard Award Recipient:SSG Kiana Brantley 978th Military Police Company, Fort Bliss, Texas
Navy Vanguard Award Recipient:AD1 Samuel G. Boyd Fleet Readiness Center Southeast Detachment Mayport, Jacksonville, Florida
USAF Vanguard Award Recipient:SrA Justin Maddich 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye
Coast Guard Vanguard Award Recipient OS3 Ryann G. Thompson Sector Key West Command Center, Key West, Florida
The term Vanguard refers to the leading part of an advancing formation, and these recipients embody the spirit of the Vanguard by moving toward danger, demonstrating courage and selflessness when it matters most. Join us in honoring these brave heroes for their exemplary service and extraordinary acts of valor. Their actions reflect the very best of what it means to serve our nation.  I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who logged in and attended our 2025 NCOA Annual Conference and Vanguard Awards Presentation, held virtually via Zoom on July 16th and 17th.
As President of the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), I feel it is my duty to personally address and apologize for the tasteless act of Zoom bombing sabotage that occurred during the Vanguard video presentations on 17th. "Shocked" is just one of many words that come to mind. I'm grateful, however, that the disruption did not completely overshadow the purpose of that evening. That evening, we came together to honor five of our nation's finest active-duty service members from each branch of our military. Who, in a moment of extreme danger, selflessly risked their lives to save others. These Vanguards exemplify the very best of what it means to serve. When we made the difficult decision to transition our conference from an in-person event in Norfolk, VA, to a virtual format, our goal was to expand our reach and allow the world to witness and celebrate these heroes, the true Vanguards who walk among us. Unfortunately, by inviting the world in, we also left ourselves vulnerable to those who have no respect for service, sacrifice, or basic human decency. The Zoom bombing that occurred was a shameless and disrespectful act, completely contrary to the values the NCOA stands for. To those who were watching, especially friends, families and any young children who may have been present, I offer my deepest apologies. This incident serves as a painful reminder that we live in a world where some individuals choose chaos over honor. We can only pray for them and commit ourselves to being more vigilant in the future. Our headquarters staff will thoroughly review our virtual event security protocols and take every necessary measure to prevent such disruptions moving forward. Despite this, I urge us all to re-focus what truly matters. Honoring the unwavering dedication, bravery, and sacrifice of our 2025 Vanguard Award recipients. To our Vanguard and your loved ones: This disgraceful act in no way diminishes your valor or the recognition you rightfully deserve. I am proud to call you America's best, and to welcome you as Lifetime Members of the Non Commissioned Officers Association. Thank you for your continued support of the NCOA. Respectfully, Garry McClure Force Master Chief (RET), USN President, Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) [email protected]
NCOA 2025 Annual Conference to Transition to Virtual Format [San Antonio, May 27, 2025] – Due to federal travel restrictions under Presidential Executive Order 14222, the Non Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA) will transition its 2025 Annual Conference to a virtual format. Originally scheduled for July 16-19, 2025, in Norfolk, Virginia, the in-person conference will now take place online, with the in-person event rescheduled for 2026. The signing of Presidential Executive Order 14222 directs the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to “freeze all U.S. federal government and Department of Defense workers’ government credit cards.” Furthermore, the order cancels all non-essential travel unless specifically justified and approved by the respective agency head and DOGE team leader. As a result of these regulations, a significant number of historically anticipated attendees will be unable to travel and support the event. “We’re disappointed that we can’t gather in person this year, but our commitment to our members and sponsors remains strong,” said Joseph Terry, Executive Director of NCOA. “The virtual format will allow us to continue with key programming, advocacy updates, and recognition for our Enlisted community.” The virtual conference will include:
NCOA is asking sponsors and registrants to consider:
Details about the virtual conference and registration will be shared soon. For the latest information, visit ncoausa.org/conference or contact the undersigned at [email protected]. Strength in Unity®
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