 November marks National Veterans and Military Families Month, a time to honor the service and sacrifice of those who defend our freedom and the families who support them. Veterans Day reminds us that freedom is not free. The NCOA War Medallion Program offers a meaningful way to say “thank you” to the Veterans in your life. Whether it’s a parent, coworker, mentor, or friend, presenting them with an NCOA War Medallion is a powerful gesture of appreciation and respect. Each medallion represents a chapter of military history and the service of those who lived it: World War II Korean War Vietnam War Cold War Persian Gulf / Global War on Terrorism These medallions can be presented at home, during community ceremonies, or through local organizations. NCOA can also assist in coordinating presentations to ensure each Veteran receives the recognition they deserve. A portion of every medallion purchase supports the NCOA Scholarship Fund, which helps provide educational opportunities for the children and grandchildren of Service Members. To learn more or order medallions, visit ncoausa.org/programs. For assistance with a ceremony or bulk order, contact [email protected]. This Veterans Day, honor a hero in your life with a symbol that carries the weight of gratitude and the spirit of service. Strength in Unity
 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. Strength in Unity® Joseph Terry SGM, U.S. Army (Ret) NCOA Executive Director Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content.  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. Strength in Unity® Joseph Terry SGM, U.S. Army (Ret) NCOA Executive Director Stay connected: Check out our official channels on for the latest updates, events, resources, and content.  Golf Tournament • 2026 Conference • Medallions • Ambassador Program Thanks for staying connected with NCOA. Here’s what we're up to: 1) Annual Golf Tournament – Sept 19, 2025 (San Antonio) If you’re local to JBSA-FSH (or can make the trip), grab a teammate and join us at Fort Sam Houston Golf Course. When/Where: Fri, Sept 19 • Sign-in 0700–0745 • Shotgun start 0800 • 1050 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209 Format/Cost: 18-hole scramble (4-person teams)
2) 2026 Annual Conference – Norfolk, Virginia We’re headed to Norfolk in July 2026 (Sheraton Norfolk Waterside). After this year’s virtual format, we’re looking forward to being back in person where we can connect, learn, and recognize outstanding service across our community. Save the date and watch for registration/sponsorship details: ncoausa.org/conference 3) Recognize a Veteran: NCOA War Medallions Veterans Day is around the corner. If someone came to mind just now, consider presenting an NCOA Medallion, or sponsor one for us to present on your behalf. Available medallions: WWII • Korean War • Vietnam War • Cold War • Persian Gulf/GWOT Price: $25 each (includes box, card, and shipping) Why it matters: A portion supports NCOA scholarships. Order or learn more: ncoausa.org/programs • [email protected] 4) Coming Soon: NCOA Ambassador Program We’re building a small team of social media ambassadors. This new program will include members and supporters who want to help share NCOA updates, advocacy actions, and events. If you like to post, tell stories, attend events, or highlight wins in your community, raise your hand. Want to be considered? Email [email protected] with subject “Ambassador” and include your social links. 5) Help Us Grow: Join or Renew Our advocacy is stronger with you in it. If you haven’t joined yet, or if you know someone who should join, now’s a good time.
One more ask: If you’re already a member, invite one person this week.
EACH ONE, REACH ONE! That’s how our voice carries in D.C. and across the country. Focus Point – Virtual Conference - Will you Answer the Call to Action? Please take the time to read this message.  Greetings Team NCOA! We are looking forward to the Virtual Conference. Congratulations to the Outstanding Chapters of the Year: To be announced on the 17th during Virtual. Also thank you to the Chapters and members that contributed to the Parade of Checks thus far, you can also make a pledge during the Virtual Event on the 16th. A shout out to those Sponsors that are staying with us for the Conference next year! We are asking everyone to come and join us during the Virtual Event. The links are Below and posted on the Website and Facebook pages and have been sent to the Chapters Leaders to disseminate as well.
Will you Answer the Call to Action? As mentioned before, I have been asked by our members what they can do to assist the Association. I answer by providing information on several Programs we have on going and ask our members to participate in and support. You can support whether you are affiliated with a Chapter or not. Below are some Programs that I have asked you ALL to support. I have included some remarks as to the status of support. To be frank, except for a few Chapters and Individuals we have had very little poor response to our previous Calls to Action. I am constantly asking for support in membership recruiting and in a few other areas. Below are some data/remarks on how we are doing in some of the areas we would like support from you all in some way. Again, I’m asking you, Will you Answer the Call? Membership Campaign - GOAL: 2500 - As of July 2025; 231 New Members (36 Aux) (196 Regular). That’s way short of our goal! Have you tried just asking someone to join or sponsor 1 member? Medallions Recognition Program- Overall Support (5 Chapters are supporting very well Lead by Oregon Chapters). There is so much room to grow in this program. It’s a program that a majority of our members asked us to expand, and we did. Please visit our website, and I need to know if you plan on making orders so we can prepare to order what’s needed. $ Dollar Can Make A Difference Campaign – Only 3 Donations thus far! (2 of those are Headquarters Staff Donations). This Campaign supports 3 Programs, a minimum $1.00 donation. Even with the card fee that’s less than $2.00s. Please share this Campaign with your contacts. Again, I am asking, Will you Answer the Call to Action? Will you at least share the information with others that may want to assist? We are not asking you to support everything, just support something! Help us show our Association Motto, Strength in Unity® through our Actions! Thank you all in advance for your support! Strength in Unity® Joseph Terry, SGM, U.S. Army (Ret) NCOA Executive Director 9330 Corporate Drive, Suite 708 Selma Texas. 78154 Facebook: NCOAUSA and NCOA-Strength In Unity® Instagram: NCOA1960 Youtube: @NCOAOfficial  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 NCOA Board Member Sir Ted Pilihos, PGK, member of the NCOA Fort Sam Houston Chapter, recently presented the NCOA Vietnam Medallion to Dr. Jesse Moss, Jr. Dr. Moss served in combat as an Army Infantry Officer in Vietnam before he began his medical career. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel and is, in Sir Ted's opinion, "one of the best ENT doctors in San Antonio." 
Rogue Chapter members stayed busy presenting NCOA Medallions as attested by the presentation photos below. Additionally, while on a vacation cruise, Rogue Chapter Chairman Terry Haines presented World War II Medallions to a family member of Navy veteran Russell James and Army veteran Charles Middleton. He also presented Korea and Vietnam Medallions to Navy veteran Lewis Fierke. Finally, he presented Vietnam Medallions to Army veterans Dewayne Rancourt and Robert Tell, Air Force veterans Vince Mee, Jan Tolson, Va Xiong, Paul Eckert, Tom Pettit, Joe Ealazzolo, and Gaylon Arisman. Pictures from the presentations on the cruise were unavailable due to the size of the crowd and the time constraints placed on our gathering by the cruise line.  Hello Team NCOA,
As we approach the NCOA Annual Conference in July, there are a few important updates and reminders I want to share with you. Your involvement is crucial as we continue to grow and advocate for our community. Here’s what’s coming up: Sign up or sponsor a new member before the NCOA Annual Conference, happening July 15-18, 2025. Your support helps us expand our voice and impact. Register for the Annual Conference today! Be sure to encourage others to sign up as well. This is an opportunity you won't want to miss. The Cold War and Gulf/GWOT Medallions are coming soon! Stay tuned for more information. Stay connected: Check out our official channels on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube for the latest updates, events, resources, and content. Your continued support is what makes the NCOA stronger every day. We look forward to seeing you at the conference and continuing the work we do together. V/R, Joe Terry SGM, U.S. Army (Ret.) Executive Director, NCOA The NCOA Rogue Chapter hit the ground running in 2025 presenting NCOA Medallions at a number of events.  Lady Vicky Hensley and SGM (Ret) Joseph Terry presented more than 70 NCOA War Medallions at the 38th Annual TET Reunion on Saturday, February 1, 2025, in Abilene, Texas. The TET Reunion, originally established to commemorate the historic TET Offensive of the Vietnam War, has evolved into a celebration of all U.S. Veterans, regardless of branch or conflict. It’s a time for camaraderie, reflection, and appreciation, where Service Members from every generation can connect over shared experiences. On January 31, 1968, the TET Offensive marked a significant moment in the Vietnam War. More than 70,000 North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces launched a large-scale attack on over 100 cities and towns across South Vietnam. Named after the Vietnamese New Year, known as “TET”, this event changed the course of the war and remains a defining moment in military history. Whether you served in Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, or any other era, this event reunites all fellow Veterans and honors the sacrifices they made for our country. A special thank you to Vicky Hensley, White Line Systems, and the Abilene Grunts Association for sponsoring the 70+ War Medallions. If you would like more information on our War Medallions, or would like to present one to a Veteran you know, visit the NCOA Medallion Program at: ncoausa.org/medallion-and-challenge-coin "Recognizing our Past and Preparing our Future." On Monday, December 30, NCOA Board Member Sir Ted Pilihos presented 7 Vietnam Medallions to family and friends of Vietnam Veterans.  Mrs. Bonnie Tullgren accepts a Vietnam War Medallion on behalf of her late husband, CMSgt Robert T. Tullgren. NCOA Rogue Chapter Chairman Terry Haines assisted by chapter member Jamie Callahan/Luckin presented Vietnam Medallions to Army veterans Kent Washburn and Tony Holguin at a veteran's breakfast in Grants Pass, OR.
Rogue Chapter Chairman Terry Haines assisted by Trustee & Treasurer David Haines and member, Chaplain Norman Morgan, presented NCOA Vietnam War Medallions to Air Force veteran Carolyn Whitney, Army National Guard veteran Frank Helgeson, Army veterans Ben Stoner, Damiano Cusumano, John Trusty and Larry Hanlon, Marine veteran Dan Hayes and Navy veterans Russ Beem and Skip Welles. The presentations took place at the monthly veteran's breakfast in Grants Pass, OR. As a result of these presentations, we recruited 8 new members, 5 of which had received Medallions. NCOA Board member, Past Grand Knight, and member of the NCOA Fort Sam Houston Chapter CMSgt Ted Pilihos, USAF (Ret), recently presented NCOA World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War Medallions during November and December Honor Flight Breakfasts.
Rogue Chapter Chairman Terry Haines presented WW2 Medallions to David Samples on behalf of his father, Navy veteran Charles Samples and Charles Facey on behalf of his uncles, Army veteran Ariel Facey, Navy veterans Thomas Beers and Willie Facey. He then presented a Korean Medallion to Charles Facey on behalf of his uncles, Army veterans Albert Facey and Eldon Bingham. All presentations took place at a Chamber of Commerce Greeters in Medford, OR. Rogue Chapter Trustee Audie Cooper presented Vietnam Medallions to Army veteran Robert Thurman and Marine veteran Gary Graves. Rogue Chapter chairman Terry Haines presented a Vietnam Medallion to Jerry Richardson on behalf of his Father-in-Law, Navy veteran J C Daniels.
Story Credit - Zak Keeney for the Klamath Falls Herald and News
Klamath Falls, Oregon - In a ceremony nearly 60 years in the making, heroes in the truest sense of the word were finally welcomed home over the weekend. “Good morning, Vietnam!” Retired Air Force Colonel Steve Harper’s voice boomed through Hancock Hall at the Klamath County Fairgrounds and Event Center. At its height, more than 500,000 fighting men and women would hear that sign-on slogan played across the Armed Forces Network in Vietnam every morning at six a.m. while battling for South Vietnamese independence and the prevention of further communist spread in the region. What would become America’s longest and most divisive military conflict, the Vietnam War is often reflected on with somber regret and considered a failure despite American troops winning every significant battle. Over 3.1 million US Armed Forces personnel were stationed in Vietnam, an estimated 25 percent of those being draftees, with 57,939 members either killed or missing as a result of the war. But, on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, 51 years after the end of US involvement, a gathering of more than 90 servicemen and women who’d seen the war firsthand, finally were given what many veterans of that era longed for: kindness and respect. “These men and women never got the homecoming they deserved,” Non Commissioned Officers Association Command Chief and Master of Ceremonies Peter Gleason said. “This is something long overdue.” For most, returning home from Vietnam was met with indifference, hostility and blame. These knightly men and women were often spat on and called baby killers. They were treated with coldness and hostility for doing what only 7 percent of all living Americans have done, serving their country. “They (American citizens) weren’t too keen on us (Vietnam Veterans),” Doug Leehmann, a paratrooper in the conflict, said. While attitudes toward the war have improved, many veterans of the era felt isolated and unheard, and while most of those veterans say they would never do it again, according to recent statistics, 90 percent say they are proud of their service. “We saw you and still see you,” Klamath County Commissioner Derrick DeGroot said in a welcoming speech. “You are strong and you are courageous. You taught us what service and sacrifice means. You are our heroes. It’s definitely late, but welcome home. We are grateful that you all are here, and thank you.” In an invitation to all Vietnam Veterans, The Klamath County Veterans Service Office and the Non-Commissioned Officers Association held a welcome home luncheon and ribbon ceremony. The former Kingsley Field base commander and a Vietnam Veteran himself, Col. (Ret) Harper gave out what he described as a “well-earned piece of brass” to 90 service men and women that afternoon whose names were: Adolf, Gerald; Applegate, George; Ballard, Ronald; Brown, Bennett; Burrus, Dan; Caillouette, Courad; Campbell, Ronald; Cogdill, Bill; Crandry, Harry; Crowley, Ted; Dean, Gerald; Defransico, Nicholas; Depweg, David; Ebinger, Henry; Field, John; Flory, Gail; Frei, Warren; Garich, Homer; Garland, Fred; George, Jerry; Glick, Kirth; Gogo, William; Gogolin, Thomas; Grace, James; Gray, Charles; Gregory, Gray; Guerrero, Richard; Hansen, Norman; Harmon, James; Harper, Steve; Harper, Sherry; Haugen, Warren; Henslee, Joe; Hollinger, David; Holcomb, Ralph; Honish, Robert; Hoy, Chuck; Huseby, Ronald; Hutchin, Jerald; Icenbice, Kenneth; Ivie, Ray; Jameson, Phillip; Kelly, Michael; Kilpatrick, Earl; Krupnak, Walter; Leehman, Douglas; Liskey, Rocky; Lopez, Jesus; Macomber, Phil; Manard, Aldon; Mathews, Allen; Meek, Leon; Meredith, Robert; Mick, Robert; Morris William; Murphy, Ronald; Muzzey, Thomas; Nelson, Mike; Norlin, David; Newnham, Doris; Oosterman, Nicolas; Pattee, Roger; Quen, Benjamin; Ritter, Robert; Rhodes, George; Roberts, Dennis; Ronningen, Kenneth; Rott, Dave; Stembridge, Montie; Shaw, Robert; Smith, Larry; Smith, William; Stoke, Larry; Storey, Douglas; Thompson, Michael; Telle, Pete; Trumbly, Anthony; Tucker, Steven; Tyler, Roy; Van Buren, Phillip; VandeZandschulp, Conrad; Walbotn, Avery; Walters, James; Waters, Marell; West, Paul; Wheeler, Thomas. “These are all a great bunch of guys (and gals). I’m proud to be in attendance with them,” 94-year-old veteran of Korea and Vietnam Earl Kilpatrick said. October 5, 2024 - NCOA Board member, Past Grand Knight, and member of the NCOA Fort Sam Houston Chapter CMSgt Ted Pilihos, USAF (Ret), recently presented NCOA Korea and Vietnam War Medallions during the 39th Annual Chief's Gathering at the Blue Bonnet Dance Hall in Selma, Texas. Pictured below from left to right are: CMSgt Bobby Valdez, USAF (Ret), CSM Mack Clanton, USA (Ret), Sir Ted Pilihos, CSM Paul Greenwood, USA (Ret), CMSgt Fil Villarreal, USAF (Ret); and CMSgt Bob Layman, USAF (Ret). Valdez, Clanton, and Villarreal were recognized with Vietnam War Medallions while Greenwood and Layman were recognized with Korea War Medallions. 
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