Marine Corps EOD Techs Marine Corps EOD Techs

Transcription

S ta l e m at e , C o m m i ss i o n M ay T h r e at e n B e n e f i t s 8
November 2013
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page 18
5 F RA Welcomes
FO Steve Cox
16 Welcome Branch 232
28 F RA’s Newest
Life Members
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November 2013
18
18KA-BOOm!
Marine Corps Explosive Ordnance Disposal
(EOD) technicians are uniquely qualified to
identify bombs and other hazardous materials,
and disarm, detonate or otherwise render them
safe. It’s dangerous and challenging work, but
these specially-trained Marines wouldn’t want it
any other way.
!
Corps
Marine
hs
EOD Tec
Departments
2Communications
8
5 Welcome Aboard
FRA Introduces New Finance Officer Steve Cox
6SHIPMATE FORUM
8 ON & OFF CAPITOL HILL
Stalemate, Commission May Threaten Benefits
16MEMBERSHIP MATTERS
Welcome Branch 232
16
28New FRA life Members
30 Looking for… / Reunions 32Taps
34News from the Branches
36FRA AUXILIARY NEWS
Message from Past National President
Cindy Rodham Tuck
Loyalty, Protection and service
FRA is a congressionally chartered, non-profit organization
advocating for current and former enlisted members of the
U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard on Capitol Hill. For
more information on the benefits of membership, please visit
www.fra.org or call 800-FRA-1924.
On the cover
Marine Corps Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians know all about big bangs! Whether preventing
them or making them happen in a controlled manner, they use their skills and expertise to keep their
fellow warfighters safe.
1
FRA Today November 2013
Featured
Volume 92 Number 11
Communications
2
National Officers/Board Of Directors
Transition
Lauren Armstrong
There are a lot of changes on the horizon for our country, our military
and our Association.
As this issue of FRA Today goes to print, Congress is considering
the FY 2014 National Defense Authorization (see page 8), provisions
of which will determine the future of pay and benefits for our nation’s
service members and retirees. October 1st marked the beginning of the
new fiscal year and the implementation of TRICARE Prime Service
Areas (PSA) restrictions (see page 9). And by the time you read this
edition, our Association will consist of eight regions (instead of the
previous nine) and FRA will have a new National President, National
Vice President and National Executive Director (NED).
In addition to our new NED, we are happy to welcome two new
members of the National Headquarters (NHQ) Team. Jayne Pritchett
joined our Accounting Department in August as a temp-to-hire employee, and Will Kohudic became our new Assistant Communications
Manager in early September. Both are already making significant contributions to the important and ongoing operations of our NHQ. Steve
Cox, who officially became FRA’s Finance Officer in August, is profiled
on page 5 of this issue and is already a familiar face to those who attended National Convention in Chattanooga.
Sadly, FRA is also seeking a new director for our National
Headquarters (NHQ) administrative department. Alicia Landis, who
has been an integral part of our NHQ Team for more than 26 years,
announced her retirement, effective October 31, 2013. Alicia’s untiring efforts and detailed knowledge of FRA operations have ably guided
the Association through decades of national conventions, five executive secretaries/directors, more than 200 national officers, countless
staff changes and the innumerable twists and turns that are inherent
in an organization of this size. Her corporate knowledge of FRA procedures and traditions will be difficult to replace, as will her cheerful
willingness to do whatever’s required to get the job done. Her presence
at NHQ will be greatly missed by all.
While change can be unsettling, it also presents a unique opportunity to gain fresh perspectives on our important work. Strategic plans
are in place to facilitate a smooth transition and Alicia, former
NED Joe Barnes and former Finance Officer Paul Rigby have
agreed to make themselves available to train and mentor their
successors in an effort to make the changeover process as easy
as possible for leadership, members of the Association and
NHQ staff. We are grateful for their continued commitment
to the FRA and their support of all shipmates and Auxiliary
members.
FRA’s Administrative Director Alicia Landis will be missed, as will
Cricket, who has been a regular guest at NHQ.
Lauren Armstrong is FRA’s Director of Communications and serves as the Managing Editor of
FRA Today. Please contact her at lauren@fra.org.
National President
National Vice President
National Executive Dir. Finance Officer Junior PNP National Parliamentarian
National Chaplain
Mark A. Kilgore, Pensacola Branch 22
Virgil P. Courneya, High Sierra Branch 274
Joseph L. Barnes, Navy Department Branch 181
Paul Rigby, Honorary Member
Jeffrey A. Gilmartin, Potomac Branch 207
PNP Bob Beese, Volusia County Branch 335
Earnest Reed, Tallahassee Branch 34
Regional Presidents
New England Paul F. Loveless Jr., Pinetree Branch 156
Northeast David Munday III, Lakehurst Branch 124
East Coast Donald A. Hoover, Annapolis Branch 24
Southeast
James E. Robbins Jr., First Coast Branch 91
North Central John W. Partin II, Greater St. Louis Branch 267
South Central Robert A. Holcomb, Capital Area Branch 201
Southwest
Michael F. Fulton, Imperial Beach Branch 289
West Coast Shane S. Dunstan, Salt Lake City Branch 185
Northwest
Margret A. Burke, Inland Empire Branch 38
Active Duty Advisory Council
Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Michael Stevens
Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Micheal Barrett
Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt
Reserve Advisory Council
Force Master Chief of the Navy Reserve Clarence “CJ” Mitchell
USMC Reserve Force Sergeant Major James Booker
Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve Force
Mark Allen
FRA TODAY Magazine
Publisher FRA
National Executive Director Joseph L. Barnes
Communications Director/Managing Editor Lauren Armstrong
Independent Consultant for FRA Today Eileen Murphy
Contributing Photographer Paul Gunther
Design and Art Direction
FIREBRAND, Alexandria, VA www.firebrandstudios.com
Design Director Scott Rodgerson
Production Manager Sandy Jones
FRA today (ISSN 0028-1409) is published monthly by FRA, 125 N. West St.,
Alexandria, Va 22314-2754. A member’s subscription is covered by the member’s
annual dues. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, VA and additional
offices. Publication of non-sponsored advertising in fra today does not
constitute an endorsement by the FRA or its representatives. Postmaster:
Send address changes to: Member Services, FRA, 125 N. West St., Alexandria,
VA 22314-2754. FRA today is published in the interests of all current and
former enlisted personnel of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
Eligible non-members are not entitled to subscription rates. Established
1 November 1923. Title registered with U.S. Patent Office.
FRA Administrative Headquarters: 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2754
Phone: 703-683-1400, 800-FRA-1924 • Fax: 703-549-6610 • E-Mail: fraTODAY@fra.org
www . fra . o rg
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Welcome Aboard
5
FRA proudly welcomed Stephen R.
Cox to the National Headquarters
(NHQ) Team in late August as the
Association’s new Finance Officer.
In his capacity as a national officer,
he will serve as an advisor to FRA’s
National Board of Directors and the
Association’s Budget and Finance
Committee.
Steve brings a wealth of association experience to his new post, having worked for the past 22 years in the
non-profit arena, overseeing finance,
human resources, administration and
operations in positions of increasing responsibility. Most recently, he
served as the director of accounting, contracts, and human resources
at the National Guard Association
of United States (NGAUS). Prior to
that, he held financial officer positions at several other associations,
including the National Association
of State Departments of Agriculture
(NASDA). While there, he visited agricultural operations in all 50 states during a three-year period, during which
he learned about everything “from
potatoes to pineapples.” Throughout
his career, Cox has worked hands-on
to improve processes and to promote
good stewardship of membership dues
and other (often scarce) association
resources.
“I prefer non-profit work to the
private industry,” says Cox. “There’s a
stronger sense of mission and values,
and the opportunity to serve is unique
in non-profit work, especially in the
case of military associations. Making a
difference and making members’ lives
easier, is what it’s all about.”
Cox’s immediate goal at FRA is to
produce the most accurate financial
picture possible to help FRA’s Board
of Directors continue its work advancing the association’s mission. He’ll also
be focused on increasing fundraising
and recruitment efforts, and bringing
more value to FRA members, as well
as all past, present, and future members of the Sea Services. In the longer term, he wants to strengthen the
FRA Education Foundation to provide
more and larger scholarships and other educational resources.
“It’s important that the Board and
the Budget and Finance Committee
make decisions based on current and
accurate financial data and it’s my job
to make sure they have that information available. I’m looking forward
to working with the shipmates and
taking an active role in helping FRA
continue its success story,” says Cox.
“Working the numbers is a primary
part of my work, but I’m also interested in helping FRA leadership and
NHQ staff members understand how
those numbers impact the overall operation of the Association. I’m excited
about being involved with our membership and marketing efforts.”
Working with his predecessor Paul
Rigby, Cox has spent his first few weeks
on the job studying the budget, financial records and other aspects of the
Association’s operating and management systems. Cox appreciates the opportunity to learn firsthand from the
officer he is replacing, saying, “Having
Paul here for the transition and being
able to tap into his years of experience
and expertise have been an immeasurable help as I learn the ropes here at
FRA. Paul’s done an outstanding job of
establishing sound financial processes
and procedures. FRA is a well-respected organization that’s been around for
nearly 90 years, and we’re well-positioned to move forward.”
Cox, a native of Alexandria, Va.,
earned his bachelor’s degree of business administration in finance and
accounting at Marymount University
in Arlington, Va. He’s lived in northern Virginia his entire life and is a lifelong fan of the Washington Redskins.
“I cheer for them even when they’re
struggling,” smiles Steve. “They’re my
team in good times and bad.”
Steve’s the proud father of “three
great kids, Nick, Ben and Ashley”
and enjoys spending time with them
whenever possible. He also plays
lacrosse and enjoys cooking and
woodworking.
“I really like taking a project from
concept to finished product,” he explains. “It requires a lot of focus. For
me woodworking is relaxing and, in
the end, there’s a finished piece that
I can be proud of. I recently made a
rocking chair for my mother that’s
held together without any nails or
glue. It took me nine months to complete, but I’m really proud of the way
it turned out and how much my mom
enjoys it.”
FRA offers a hearty “Welcome
Aboard!” to Finance Officer Steve
Cox!
FRA Introduces New Finance Officer Steve Cox
Shipmate Forum
6
DFAS Password Hassle
Your short article [in the September issue of FRA Today] regarding changes to
[the Defense Finance and Accounting
Service] DFAS’s password requirements
does not tell the entire story. They are
making it so hard to access one’s pay account that I wish there were some way
that I could take care of my pay requirements in some other manner. It took me
three days to finally get my log-on name and password corrected. Sending an e-mail to the so-called Help Page resulted
in absolutely no response. Calling took three days, with numerous hang-ups and time spent going through the automated answering system. I had problems and I fear for my wife
should I pre-decease her. She has no computer skills and has
no desire to learn. Someone should care for the older veterans
who are not as computer savvy as the younger generations.
James E. Howe
FRA Response: We shared your concern with representatives
at DFAS and you’re not the only one who’s frustrated. They’re
receiving quite a few complaints of this nature and there are
“whispers” of possibly easing the password requirements.
We’ll keep you posted.
Armed Forces Retirement Home
I received my FRA Today magazine
yesterday and just read your article on
the Armed Forces Retirement Home
(AFRH). As a 90-year old retired chief
it seemed that you were describing
Fiddler’s Green.
I live in Metairie, La., and recall
when they built the original facility
in Mississippi sometime in the 70s. It
looks like a wonderful facility now. I now live alone with
my 10-year old dog, Harry. If I could take Harry with me
I would apply for admission, but I would never leave him.
Billy B. Buckley
Great work on the subject [of the AFRH]. I found everything I needed to know, with one exception: How would I
get into one of them?
Dan Daniel
FRA Response: You make an excellent point!!! Thanks for
pointing out this important omission!
The AFRH website (www.afrh.gov) has a wealth of information about the Homes, including application forms (under
the Forms tab), which can be completed online. You can also
call the AFRH directly for application and eligibility information. The number for both campuses is 1-800-422-9988.
I just finished reading your article about the Armed Forces
Retirement Home. I have signed up and been accepted for
residence in the Washington home. The only thing wrong
with all of this is the length of the waiting list. It is currently
two-and-a-half years! I could be too ill or infirm to check in
by the time I am called.
I have written to several people, including FRA, but no
one seems interested enough to respond. There needs to
be at least one more home and two would be better. There
are many de-commissioned bases and empty government
properties around the country that could be put to good
use. I recommend NTC San Diego as a staring point. How
about following up on this?
J. Maier
FRA Response: Thanks for sharing your news and concerns
with us. The AFRH is a great benefit of military service, but it
is, as you mentioned, in high demand.
It would be great to have another facility, particularly
one on the west coast. However, the cost of opening a new
Home will likely be prohibitive. Even renovation of a decommissioned base would cost millions of dollars and, with the
current budget climate, it’s doubtful such funds would be
appropriated.
But that doesn’t mean the idea isn’t worthy. Your suggestion has been forwarded to AFRH management.
Sequestration Hitting Hard
In almost every issue of FRA Today, it seems every article
deals with sequestration and budget cuts, and they all deal
with cuts to military pay raises, increased TRICARE copays,
subsidies to commissary stores and other issues that affect
military men and women, retired or active duty. Nowhere do
I read about recommended cuts to military hardware: Ships,
aircraft or sophisticated weaponry. Budget cuts in this area
affect the military industrial complex that has amassed trillions of taxpayer dollars. Budget cuts should affect the small
guy and the big guy equally. Instead budget cuts are placed
on the shoulders of those who are most direly affected.
James F. Page
FRA Response: Because FRA’s advocacy work is focused on
personnel programs (pay, healthcare and other benefits), that is
the focus of our editorial content related to sequestration budget cuts. But the effects of the sequester are being felt throughout the Department of Defense, including hardware and other
acquisition accounts. For example, the Pentagon is talking
about eliminating two or three carrier strike groups, bringing
the Navy to its lowest number since WWII. Significant reductions in manpower are also being forecast, which will dramatically impact our military’s ability to maintain combat-ready
forces, particularly in deployed capacities.
Submissions Send Shipmate Forum letters to Editor, FRA Today, 125 N. West St.
Alexandria, VA 22314. E-mail submissions may be sent to fratoday@fra.org. Please
include “Shipmate Forum” in the subject line. FRA reserves the right to select and edit
letters for publication. Letters published in Shipmate Forum reflect the opinions and
views of FRA members. They do not necessarily reflect the official position of FRA as
a whole. FRA is not responsible for the accuracy of letter content.
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On & off capitol hill
8
Stalemate, Commission May
Threaten Benefits
As this issue of FRA Today goes to press, the FY 2014
budget impasse shows no sign of ending. The budget
stalemate and the need to increase the debt ceiling are
overshadowing other concerns relevant to FRA shipmates. These include funding problems created by the
Budget Control Act of 2011 (see related story below),
which requires mandatory budget cuts (sequestration) for
the Department of Defense; the 2014 National Defense
Authorization Act, and efforts to address pending cuts of
nearly 30 percent to reimbursement rates for doctors seeing Medicare and TRICARE patients. The so-called “Doc
Fix” delays these cuts until January 1, 2014, unless alternative action is taken to prevent physician reimbursement
rate cuts. FRA is closely monitoring these and other issues and encouraging lawmakers to resolve the partisan
gridlock.
John Davis
The recently appointed Military Compensation and
Retirement Modernization Commission poses a different
type of potential threat to military benefits. Provisions of
the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)
called for establishment of this nine-member panel to review all aspects of military pay, benefits and retirement
compensation, to look for ways to reduce spending. FRA
continues to express serious concerns about efforts to
“reform” pay and benefits that are solely cost-driven, and
contends that the current military pay and benefit package is essential to adequate recruiting, retention and sustaining military readiness. The Commission is expected
to have several public hearings early next year and FRA
is seeking opportunities to provide input. The commission’s final report is expected to be delivered to Congress
in August of 2014.
Bigger Sequestration Cuts
Another round of automatic budget
(sequestration) cuts will take effect
no later than January 15, 2014, half
of which will come from Defense
Department (DoD) coffers. (It’s important to note that DoD makes up
only 17 percent of the total budget.)
Defense cuts for FY 2013 amounted
to $37 billion and, unless alternative steps are taken, those reductions
will increase to $52 billion for FY
2014. Neither the Administration’s
2014 budget request nor the House
or Senate versions of the Defense
Authorization bill (H.R. 1960, S. 1197,
see above) account for the effects of
sequestration.
Shipmates are reminded that FY
2013 was only the beginning of the
sequestration spending cuts mandated by the Budget Control Act (BCA)
of 2011, provisions of which will be
implemented over
10 years. FRA and
32 other Military
Coalition organizations signed a letter
to all members of
Congress expressing concerns about
continued DoD cuts
and asking lawmakers to work together
to “eliminate the
harmful effects of
sequestration.” The
letter warns that
such broad-based
cuts will compromise our nation’s defenses and “the
very viability of the All-Volunteer
Total Force.” Members are strongly urged to use
the FRA Action Center (www.fra.org,
under the “Advocacy” tab) to ask their
elected officials to eliminate Defense
spending from sequestration.
9
RETIREE Issues
On October 1, 2013, TRICARE Prime coverage ended for most retirees, their family members
and military survivors who reside more than 40 miles from a military treatment facility (MTF)
or from a base closure site. Some beneficiaries in these regions may be able to enroll in existing TRICARE Prime networks if they reside less than 100 miles from that network and waive
the 30-minute driving-distance standard imposed by TRICARE for patient safety. This change
affects more than 150,000 TRICARE Prime enrollees.
Those affected should have already received specific details from TRICARE about the change
and how it impacts them. For more information, please contact the local TRICARE Service
Center or visit http://www.tricare.mil/psa.
FRA views the TRICARE geographic restrictions as a reduction in earned benefits and strongly
supports efforts that would allow beneficiaries the opportunity to maintain their current coverage. The Association is endorsing a provision in the House version of the FY 2014 National
Defense Authorization Act (NDAA, H.R. 1960) that requires TRICARE to make a one-time continuation offer to current Prime beneficiaries, and is working to have a similar floor amendment
filed to the Senate version (S. 1197) when it is considered on the Senate floor. (At press time,
the House has passed its NDAA and the Senate version was awaiting consideration by the full
Senate.)
TMC Honors Lawmakers, Congressional Staff
The Military Coalition (TMC) presented its annual Awards of Merit to Senators Jack Reed (R.I.),
Marco Rubio (Fla.), and Claire McCaskill (Mo.) in a Capitol Hill ceremony honoring their respective efforts on behalf of the uniformed services community. The three senators were recognized
for their leadership in co-sponsoring a bipartisan amendment to protect military beneficiaries against large increases in healthcare and pharmacy fees proposed by the Department of
Defense in the FY 2013 National Defense Authorization Act.
NED Joe Barnes, TMC co-chair, said, “We’re extremely gratified and proud to honor Senators
Reed, McCaskill and Rubio for their tremendous leadership in supporting the entire uniformed
service community. They went above and beyond to preserve a strong TRICARE benefit for
service members, retirees, their family members and survivors.”
The Coalition also presented its 2013 Freedom Award to Bob Simmons, staff director of the
House Armed Services Committee and top advisor to Representative Howard “Buck” McKeon
(Calif.), who chairs the committee. Simmons has consistently worked with Coalition representatives to brainstorm solutions to contested personnel issues and identify an offset to TRICARE
fee increases in 2012, as well as to reject increases proposed by the Pentagon for 2013.
FRA is a leading member of TMC, which is currently comprised of 33 military and veterans
groups working together to advance legislation beneficial to military personnel, veterans, families and survivors. In addition to Barnes’ leadership, FRA staff members also serve in other TMC
leadership positions.
DHA Reminds Beneficiaries to Get a Flu Shot
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) reminds TRICARE beneficiaries that the flu affects millions
of men, women and children each year. Now is a great time to protect yourself and your family by getting a flu shot. TRICARE covers both the flu shot and flu mist. Beneficiaries may be
able to get their flu vaccine, at no cost, from a military treatment facility, hospital, or from a
pharmacist at one of the 45,000 network pharmacies that administer vaccines to TRICARE
beneficiaries. Find a participating pharmacy at www.express-scripts.com/tricare/pharmacy or
by calling Express Scripts at 1-877-363-1303.
Prescription Home Delivery
Saves Money
The TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery program has proven to be a cost-efficient way for
beneficiaries to get their prescription medications. TRICARE Management Activity officials
reported the results of a year-long study conducted by the DoD inspector general.
The study compared what the government
spent on prescription drugs through the
Home Delivery mail-order program and what
the cost would have been at retail pharmacies. The Home Delivery program saved the
government 16.7 percent — nearly $67
million — in the third quarter of FY 2012.
Additionally, Express Scripts, the TRICARE
pharmacy contractor, reported that Home
Delivery offers a 99.99-percent prescription
fill accuracy rate, high beneficiary satisfaction
and improved patient outcomes.
“Although not surprised, we are certainly
pleased at the results of the report,” said U.S.
Public Health Service Rear Adm. Thomas J.
McGinnis, chief of TRICARE pharmaceutical
operations. “Home Delivery saves beneficiaries and the Department of Defense millions
of dollars every year, and gives beneficiaries a
safe and secure way to receive their prescription medications.”
In June 2013, the 1.64 million prescriptions
filled through Home Delivery represented a
17 percent increase in volume compared to
the previous year, while retail prescription
volume fell 10 percent, officials said.
When TRICARE beneficiaries use the Home
Delivery pharmacy to fill maintenance medication prescriptions, they receive a 90-day
supply through the mail and have no copayment for generic formulary medications and
a $13 copay for brand-name medications. At
retail network pharmacies, beneficiaries pay
$5 for a 30-day supply of generic medications and $17 for brand name medications.
FRA strongly supports the mail-order program and other cost-saving initiatives as
alternatives to drastic increases in TRICARE
fees and pharmacy co-pays. TRICARE beneficiaries can learn more and enroll in the Home
Delivery program online at www.expressscripts.com/Tricare/homedelivery or by phone
at 877-363-1296. FRA Today November 2013
TRICARE Prime Coverage Ends for Some Beneficiaries
10
VETERANS Issues
House Panel Reviews Fully
Developed Claims
The House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on
Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs
recently held a hearing to review the Fully
Developed Claim (FDC) program. The program focuses on veterans and veteran service officers (VSOs) submitting claims that do
not require further development of non-governmental evidence in an effort to provide a
timelier claims decision for disabled veterans.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says
that FDCs take an average of 123 days to
fully adjudicate.
Warrior-Family Symposium
FRA’s Health Care Advisor Bob
Washington recently attended the
seventh Warrior-Family Symposium,
co-sponsored by the Military Officers
Association of America and the National Defense Industries Association. The forum focused
on opportunities for government and non-government organizations to collectively improve
the physical, psychological and overall well-being of our wounded warriors. This year’s event
emphasized treatment for mental health concerns and the challenges facing wounded warriors
and their families.
Improvements in mental health care and treatment were discussed, including the use of peer
support for individuals seeking treatment. Participants on several panels expressed the need
for more coordinated efforts between public and private sectors, and between DoD and the VA.
Also discussed were the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) efforts to inform and
educate the public on mental health issues.
PDBR Review of Disability Claims Continues
The VA announced in August that veterans
filing original FDCs for service-connected disability compensation may be entitled to up
to one-year of retroactive disability benefits.
The retroactive benefit will be considered
for FDCs filed between August 6, 2013, and
August 5, 2015, and is associated with an
FRA-supported comprehensive legislative
package (H.R. 1627 – P.L. 112-154) signed
into law last year. Only veterans submitting
their first compensation claim as an FDC are
potentially eligible for the retroactive disability benefits under the newly implemented
law.
The Physical Disability Review Board
(PDBR) was created by the FY2008 Defense
Authorization Act (NDAA) to reassess the accuracy and fairness of combined disability ratings
of 20 percent or less for service members who
were separated from service, rather than medically retired because of medical conditions. In
order to be eligible for a PDBR review, service
members must have been medically separated
between September 11, 2001, and December
31, 2009, with a combined disability rating of
20 percent or less, and found ineligible for retirement. The Physical Disability Review Board
(PDBR) says that more than half of reviewed
claims have been upgraded to a disability rating of 30 percent or more. This review panel is authorized to recommend an increase in a disability rating, uphold the
previous finding, or issue a disability rating when the previous board did not assign one. The
board, however, is not able to recommend a lower rating. Eligible veterans can request a board
review by submitting a Department of Defense Form 294, Application for Review of Physical
Disability Separation from the Armed Forces of the United States, which is available at http://
www.va.gov/vaforms/
Veterans requesting a review must mail their completed and signed DD Form 294 to SAF/
MRBR, 550 C St. W., Suite 41, Randolph Air Force Base, TX 78150-4743. Applicants may submit statements, briefs, medical records or affidavits supporting their application. For more information about the PDBR go to:
http://health.mil/About_MHS/Organizations/MHS_Offices_and_Programs/PDBR.aspx
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New Options for
Communicating with MTF
The Defense Health Agency (formerly
TRICARE Management Activity or
TMA) is rolling out an online application that allows patients to securely
communicate with the medical staff at
military treatment facilities (MTF). To
ensure confidentiality, only the patient
and his/her health care team have access to messages. Patients can use the
online application to request appointments, receive test and lab results,
communicate online with the health
care team about non-urgent symptoms, request immunization records,
and access patient education materials.
Active Duty/Reserve Issues
White House Joining Forces/Military Family Summit
FRA staff recently attended the Joining
Forces/Military Family Summit at the White
House. Joining Forces is a comprehensive
national effort to mobilize all sectors of society to give our service members and their
families the opportunities and support they
have earned. The initiative is spearheaded
by First Lady Michelle Obama and Second
Lady Dr. Jill Biden, who was on hand to
welcome summit participants. Holly Petraeus, assistant director for the Office of Servicemember
Affairs Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), addressed the attendees to explain the
agency’s efforts to educate active duty military personnel on the pitfalls of personal finance and
enforcement of the Military Lending Act (MLA) and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).
(See story below.) Also speaking at the summit were Rosemary Williams, Deputy Assistant
Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy, who is responsible for oversight
of all community support to service members and their families, and Dr. Jan Kemp, associate
director at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), who explained VA mental health efforts
to help veterans.
CFPB Examiners Seek to Identify Military Predatory Lending
Photo by Naypong/Shutterstock
The online system will allow patients to obtain written advice that
might otherwise be forgotten or misunderstood if communicated verbally.
It will help patients avoid the annoyance of phone trees and/or playing
“phone tag.” The new system will also
allow patients to follow up on health
care issues without the inconveniences
of traffic, parking or lost days of work. This new online communication
tool is being rolled out by the Army,
Navy and Air Force medical services.
The Consumer Financial Protection
Bureau (CFPB) recently released guidelines to its examiners on how to identify
consumer harm and risks related to violations of the Military Lending Act (MLA)
when supervising payday lenders. The
CFPB is committed to ensuring that payday lenders comply with the act, which
provides greater protections for military
families, including capping annual interest rates at 36 percent. The new guidelines are addressed in an updated exam
manual that the CFPB released for the
short-term, small-dollar lending industry.
“Protecting service members is a priority
for the CFPB,” said CFPB Director Richard Cordray. “We will use the authority Congress gave
us to enforce the Military Lending Act (MLA) and to safeguard our men and women in uniform
from illegal payday loans.” FRA was in the forefront in enacting the MLA in 2007 and welcomes the CFPB efforts to protect service members from predatory lenders.
Payday loans are typically designed for small amounts, as a way to bridge a cash shortage
between pay or benefit checks, and must be repaid quickly. Through its enforcement and supervisory work, the CFPB will continue to scrutinize lenders to make sure they are following the
MLA requirements. Specifically, payday lenders must follow the requirements of the law for all
closed-end loans of $2,000 or less and with terms of 91 days or less.
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14
Bill Provides Military Death Benefits
President Obama signed a targeted stopgap measure into
law that funds military death benefits during the government shutdown. Funds allocated under the joint resolution
(H. J. Res 91), sponsored by Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen
(N.J.), will be available until December 15 or until an appropriations law is enacted, whichever comes first.
Obama previously signed legislation (H.R. 3210 –
P.L. 113-39) into law that funds pay for the military until
January 1, 2015, and legislators assumed the law included
death gratuity benefits. The Department of Defense (DoD)
interpretation of “pay and allowances” in the legislation did
not include death benefits paid to family members of service members killed in action while the government is shut
down. The Pentagon says 17 service members have been
killed in Afghanistan since the shutdown began. The Fisher
House Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps
military families in need, provided families of fallen service
members advance grants to cover travel and other expenses
until the Pentagon is able to pay out death and burial benefits that were suspended during the government shutdown.
“After losing a loved one in service to our nation, these families should not have to endure more pain as the result of political squabbling,” said Fisher House CEO Ken Fisher.
In response to the narrow interpretation by DoD,
Congress put H. J. Res. 91 on the legislative fast-track to
mandate that death gratuities and related survivor benefits
for survivors of deceased military service members will be
paid during the government shutdown. FRA thanks the
nearly 2,000 Shipmates who responded to our associated
“Making Waves” alert in less than 48 hours.
The FRA Legislative team is Joe Barnes, National Executive Director; John Davis,
Director of Legislative Programs; Bob Washington, Health Care Advisor and Outreach
Manager; and Chris Slawinski, National Veterans Service Officer.
Yesterday’s heroes.
Today’s asbestos victims.
The heroes who built and protected America 40 and
50 years ago are today’s most likely victims
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Membership Matters
16
Welcome Branch 232
We are glad to welcome Branch 232
(Cape May, N.J.) back on the FRA rolls.
Jersey Cape Branch 232 was originally
formed on January 25, 1977, and after
many years of active participation, the
branch membership and involvement
began to dwindle. On September 23,
2008, the branch voluntarily and sadly
surrendered its charter and the remaining members became Members
at Large. After a five-year hiatus, we’re
thrilled to report that Branch 232 is reborn and reinstituted!
Cape May is the home of the United
States Coast Guard (USCG) Training
Center and its population includes
many active duty, Reserve, retired and
veteran enlisted members of the Sea
Services. Cape May is also the future
home of the USCG Enlisted Memorial,
which will be built on the grounds of
the Training Center as a fitting memorial to honor the immense sacrifice of
the more than 1,500 enlisted men and
women who lost their lives in performance of Coast Guard duties.
Shipmate Bob Campbell, president of Branch 13 (Atlantic City,
N.J.), was asked to serve on the Board
of Directors for USCG Enlisted
Memorial Foundation. Because of
Bob’s high level of enthusiasm for the
FRA and willingness to help with this
project, he contacted FRA National
Headquarters about the possibility
and requirements to start a branch.
Penny Collins
It seemed only logical to Bob that, if
he were going to assist with the Coast
Guard Memorial, it would be a great
opportunity to reopen an FRA branch
in Cape May.
Shipmate Bob went to work on
finding qualified shipmates in the
Cape May area. He received a listing
of current and former FRA members
in the Cape May area and contacted
them about reinstituting the branch.
After several months of communicating with these members, Shipmate Bob
was able to send an application for reinstatement to FRA headquarters and
it was approved by the National Board
of Directors.
Shipmate Campbell served as master of ceremonies on September 11,
2013, when Branch 232’s charter was
instituted and the branch officers were
installed by FRA National President
Mark Kilgore and Northeast Regional
President David Munday. Many other
dignitaries attended the ceremony at
the Cape May Chief Petty Officers Club,
including New Jersey State Senator
Jeff Van Drew and Cape May Mayor
Dr. Edward J. Mahaney, Jr. USCG
Training Center Commander CAPT
G. Todd Prestidge, Executive Officer
CDR Owen Gibbon and Command
Master Chief AMTCM Terry Cowart
were also on hand for the festivities, as
were Northeast/New England Regional
President-Elect James Brown and I.
Members of
Branch 232 pose
for a group photo
as the branch is
reinstituted.
PRPNE John Di Filippo, a 50-year
member of the FRA and the first president of Branch 232 in 1977, traveled
from Washington, D.C., for the occasion and Shipmate William B. Leyes,
Jr., the last branch president before the
charter was surrendered, was also there
to witness this great event.
Branch officers installed were:
Branch President HSCM Cathy S.
Seybold (USCG), First Vice-President
BMC Thomas Dougherty (USCG,
Ret.), Second Vice-President YN1
Michael A. McLaughlin (USN, Ret.)
and Secretary/Treasurer CWO3 Steve
Harrell (USCG, Ret.).
Together we provide one voice for
enlisted personnel in the Sea Services
and act as a major force for advocating
improved pay, benefits and quality-oflife programs for active duty, Reserve,
retired and veteran members and their
families. We are thrilled to have added
these new voices to our important legislative work!
Are you interested in starting a
new branch? A minimum of 20 members is needed to start a branch, which
can be a combination of new and current members. Once the application to
start a new branch is approved by the
Board, the institution and installation
ceremonies must be completed within
three months. There are several FRA
resources to help, including reference material and, of course, support
from the Membership Team at FRA
National Headquarters. If you would
like more information on forming a
new FRA Branch in your community,
please contact me at Penny@fra.org or
1-800-FRA-1924 x123.
Penny Collins is FRA’s Director of Membership
Development and a member of FRA Branch 24 in
Annapolis, Md. She can be reached at penny@fra.org.
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Searching for mines, disarming explosives and detonating enemy ordnance isn’t for everyone. Some
people might say folks who do it for a living are just plain crazy or, at a minimum, just a little unstable. But Marine Corps Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians volunteer to do this hazardous
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EOD techs also provide their services when local
authorities or citizens discover what they believe to be an
explosive threat. When asked if Marine EOD techs support local police bomb squads, Andela chuckled, “We are
the local bomb squad for the counties that surround our
duty stations. We get the call if there’s a suspicious package at the airport or if someone finds one of grandpa’s old
WWII grenades in the attic.”
The Joint POW Accounting Command (JPAC) is also supported by Marine Corps EOD techs. “JPAC’s mission is to
go to the site of old aircraft crashes and work to recover
the remains of the pilot and crew. EOD techs assist in
assessing and safely disarming any explosive hazards that
may still be a danger to the recovery team,” adds Zambon.
“This MOS [Military Occupational Specialty] provides the
opportunity to do a lot of different things, with different
people, from different services and different countries,”
says Hernandez. “We train with infantry troops, work
with specialized gear and other aspects of the Marine
Corps that I probably wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do in other MOSs. I’m excited about the
chance to do missions that we weren’t able to do
in recent years because of our responsibilities
in Iraq and Afghanistan. With the drawdown
in these regions, we’re now supporting missions in Africa and Southeast Asia. There’s
no problem keeping us busy.”
Andela estimates there are fewer than
700 EOD techs in the Corps and, even
though the need for their skills
changes with the operational
Staff Sgt. Daniel Pare, team leader for 2nd Explosive
Ordnance Disposal Company, 2nd Marine Logistics
Group (Forward), and his team member, Sgt. Tyler
Broome, carefully set charges of C-4 to remove the
wings of a downed French F-2000 Mirage aircraft.
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Theresa E. Seng
Specialized Training
Zambon knew he wanted to be an EOD tech when he
decided to join the Corps. “Our family reloaded our own
ammunition and I grew up having black powder around
all the time. As a kid, I loved explosions and demolitiontype stuff, so when I went to the recruiter and was
flipping through the catalog of the jobs available in the
Corps, I was pretty excited when I saw a picture of a big
fireball and a description of the EOD tech specialty,”
recalls Zambon. “I was thrilled. ‘You mean I can get paid
to do that? Awesome!’”
But he learned quickly that you can’t volunteer to become
an EOD tech until you’ve met certain requirements. A
Marine must have attained the rank of sergeant or be
promotable to sergeant before he/she graduates from
the EOD course. Waivers are sometimes given to corporals
and Zambon is one of only two EOD techs he knows who
were admitted as lance corporals. “We were accepted to
EOD School in 2005, at a time when there was a particularly high demand for these skills due to our operations in
Iraq,” he recalls.
Other requirements include meeting Marine Corps height
and weight standards, attaining a passing Physical Fitness
Test score and achieving a General Technical (GT) score
of 110 or higher. There can be no history of drug use in a
EOD technicians also support the Secret Service mission
to protect the President, Vice-President, Secretary of State
and other VIPs. “It’s our job to proof areas where these
dignitaries will be, such as runways, speaking venues and
hotels, and make sure these locations are safe for their
arrival,” says Staff Sergeant Michael Andela, who enjoys
VIP assignments. “VIP details are assigned as needed
and are not a permanent assignment. We may not find
anything, but it’s an important and necessary part of
protecting the VIPs or dignitaries who are going to be at a
particular place. I feel good knowing the environment has
been cleared and is safe.”
demands of the service and nation, there’s plenty of work
to go around.
22
Marine’s military record and they cannot be colorblind.
They also can’t be claustrophobic, because the protective
gear required can be very restrictive.
Marines who meet the basic criteria are then interviewed
and screened at an EOD unit to determine if they have
the appropriate personality and temperament for this
type of work. The EOD community is small, so the Marine
Corps can be very selective, choosing Marines who are
highly motivated and demonstrate high levels of integrity
and character. Once accepted into the EOD program, the
process varies based on available slots at EOD School at
Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., and the needs of the Marine
Corps. Those accepted may go directly to school, but most
work as a trainee in an operational EOD unit for on-thejob training (OJT) before going to Eglin.
EOD School is the training ground for all U.S. military
services, as well as trainees from other countries. “It’s a
joint and international environment and we’re all there
to learn and master a very specific set of skills,” says
Zambon, who currently teaches at Eglin. “Our community has experienced a lot of loss, so we know just how
dangerous it can be and, because of the danger involved
in our work, everyone at school takes it with a serious and
somber attitude.”
“I miss deploying, but it’s gratifying to be sharing my
experience and expertise with others here at the School,”
adds Andela, who is nearing his two-year anniversary as
an instructor. “It’s an opportunity to pass on good habits
and make a difference for the Corps.”
During the eight-month course, students must successfully complete all of the eight curriculum components to
become a surface-qualified EOD Tech. Zambon teaches
in the Core Division, where trainees learn the requisite
basics needed to work in the field. “They become familiar
with the different types of ordnance and our publications
system,” which outlines the construction of explosive
devices and how to render them safe. “They also learn to
perform reconnaissance on unexploded ordnance and
observe safety precautions. They must know how to get
the pertinent information from the ordnance, research the
publications and determine how to disarm or dispose of it.”
Other divisions of the program include Demolition, where
students become familiar with explosive principles and
the applied physics associated with detonating charges;
and Tools & Methods, where students learn to use the
tools of their trade to perform “render safe” procedures
that will reduce or eliminate the ordnance’s hazardous
capability. Ground Ordnance training covers land mines,
grenades, rockets and projectile ordnance, while Air
Ordnance includes work with aircraft hazards such as
chaff, flares, missiles and bombs that might be aboard an
aircraft. The course also includes specialized instruction
in Biological/Chemical Weapons, Nuclear Ordnance and
there is a specific course devoted to Improvised Explosive
Devices (IEDs).
Improvised Explosive Devices
“By their nature, IEDs are not conventional,” explains
Zambon. “They are truly improvised, constructed of variable materials and there are 1,001 ways to build them.”
“I enjoy being an instructor and helping students and fellow instructors find better ways to get the job done,” adds
Hernandez. “We teach to the curriculum, but particularly
with regard to IEDs, you have to think outside the box.
There are 100 ways to skin a cat and if you ask 10 guys
to diffuse a device, they’ll come up with 10 different
ways to make it happen. A lot of people think our
work is strictly related to IEDs because of their
prevalent use in Iraq and Afghanistan over the
past 10 years, but IEDs are really a very small
part of our curriculum here at EOD School.”
Sgt. Cliff Lucker (left), an explosive ordnance
disposal technician with 2nd Explosive
Ordnance Disposal Company, 9th Engineer
Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group
(forward) instructs Marines from 1st Battalion,
7th Marines on counter improvised explosive
device tactics on the EOD Co. compound at Camp
Leatherneck, Afghanistan.
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. John Jackson
23
“It’s relatively easy to predict where the enemy is going
to place IEDs,” Hernandez echoes. “They observe us and
it becomes a game. We’re encouraged to vary up our
routines and avoid repeating patterns. By knowing our
enemy and their patterns, we are better able to counter
their efforts. For example, there are certain things they
have to do to plant an IED and some things inevitably get
left behind. They leave tells for us that help us do our job.”
Skill, experience and trust are closely intertwined in an
EOD unit and are crucial to accomplishing the mission
safely. “If the skill level is low, that creates a hazard not
only for that individual EOD tech, but for the whole
team,” explains Hernandez. “In school we teach the basics
and in the field, it’s the team’s responsibility to provide
more advanced training to help that tech be successful and safe. If you don’t trust someone to do their job,
there’s no point in him being on the team.”
Developing Trust in the Field
Andela agrees. “In the field, it’s important to do everything possible to keep yourself and your team safe. You
can’t overlook things or it will get you killed or take body
parts from you. This job requires a lot of trust in your fellow team members. You literally trust them with your life,
and they trust you with theirs. You count on them to see
things you might have missed and vice versa. Team trust
is really a sort of checks-and-balances system.”
According to Hernandez, it used to be a virtual guarantee that EOD School graduates would deploy within six
months of completing the course. “There were so few
of us and there was so much work to be done, it wasn’t
unheard of to have guys who were only two months out
of school deploying as a combat replacement. We like
guys to have at least six months of pre-deployment training and, although that used to be a luxury, it’s now more
of the norm.
“We now have some graduates who may not deploy at
all, depending on the unit to which they’re assigned.
Because of the drawdown in Iraq and Afghanistan, they
may deploy, but not to a combat theater,” Hernandez
continues. “They might deploy with a MEU [Marine
Expeditionary Unit] or crosstrain with troops from other
nations. It’s exciting that we have the opportunity to do
other things, but now it’s often a matter of funding that
keeps us from doing those things.”
EOD training is continuous, regardless of rank or years of
experience. There’s always something new to learn, which
is why you rarely hear of a Marine EOD tech being bored,
says Zambon.
“EOD School is just the beginning. There are some things
that just make more sense when you see them in action.
You may understand the concept in the classroom, but
when you can work through the procedures and have the
experience, there’s more fertile ground for those concepts
to really take hold. Experience teaches you when to do
what and, even after years in the field, you can’t know
everything. We really are jacks of all trades, masters of
none.”
Unfortunately, that system isn’t foolproof and mistakes
happen. During his two EOD deployments to Afghanistan,
Andela has learned some powerful lessons the hard way.
“When you see people being hurt or killed, it is a painful experience, but it’s even more painful when it’s your
own flesh and blood — fellow Americans. I feel personal
remorse when that happens. I can’t help but feel that I
could have done a better job or something to prevent the
catastrophic results. I go over the events, trying to see if
there was something I missed or how I can learn from any
mistakes that might have been made. It helps me do a
better job to keep everyone safe.”
Real Dangers
Despite extensive training, knowledge of enemy tactics
and years of experience, EOD duty is still a very dangerous
business. Staff Sergeant Zambon knows that all too well.
He’s a veteran of three deployments to Iraq and another
three to Afghanistan and has been “blown up” five times.
He lost his fingertips while trying to recover evidence
from an IED detonator and he lost both his legs in an IED
explosion while stationed with 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines
in Sangin, Afghanistan, in January 2011.
“In addition to understanding IED construction principles,
we also factor in simple patterns of human behavior,”
continues Zambon. “For example, if there’s an opening
in the wall that our troops are going to have to walk
through, it’s not surprising that the enemy often chooses
that opening to place an IED. We’re good at our jobs, we
know our enemy well and are able to predict some of
their patterns.”
Experience is also a factor in developing EOD team leaders, adds Zambon. “Before a Marine can even be admitted
to EOD School, he’s already served three or four years. The
course is eight months long and he will usually spend a
deployment or two as a junior member of the EOD team
before being qualified as a team leader. The path to be
an EOD team leader is longer than, for example, infantry
team leader.”
24
“An IED had been discovered and was cordoned off. We
were walking Ranger style [single file] and I stepped on
a pressure-activated IED in the rubble that the sweeper
hadn’t picked up on. The team leader and corpsman
applied a tourniquet and got me to a medical facility.”
After two-and-a-half years of rehabilitation, Zambon is
the first Marine EOD tech to have lost both legs above
the knee and return to active duty. “Although I qualify
as 100-percent disabled in the eyes of the [Department
of Veterans Affairs], the Commandant [of the Marine
Corps] has made it a priority to allow wounded Marines
to return to duty if they so desire. I’m currently assigned
as an instructor at EOD School on Expanded Permanent
Limited Duty (EPLD), which means that either the Corps or
I can say, ‘This isn’t working.’ So far, it’s working well and
I’m proud to be able to continue to serve.”
He’s also returned to an active lifestyle. He climbed
Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak and one of the
famed Seven Summits, in 2012 with a group of wounded
warriors as part of The Heroes Project. (For photos of
Mark’s climb, visit http://theheroesproject.org/2012/06/
mark-zambon.) He was also one of two Marines who
participated in the off-road Dakar Rally in South America
this year. “In 2011, I met Marta, an amazing woman who
is now my wife, and we celebrated our first anniversary in
August of this year. Life is good!”
Tools of the Trade
The IED portion of the EOD School curriculum includes
training technicians to become proficient in the use
of robotic platforms. “Robots are a phenomenal tool,”
says Zambon, “as their use means putting distance
between the technician and the explosive. Robots often
allow EOD personnel to reduce their exposure to risk.
They can often be used to diffuse a situation or prevent
a detonation altogether. If I’d been 12 meters away from
the IED when it went off, I might have a headache for
several weeks. And even if I’d been 10 feet away, I might
not have experienced any physical damage.”
Andela is also a big proponent of robots. “They are a key
piece of gear and should be the number one, go-to tool if
at all possible.”
“We like to stay as remote as possible from the threat,”
adds Hernandez. “We really emphasize that to our students: Remote, remote, remote! But sometimes that’s a
luxury we simply don’t have. During my two EOD deployments to Iraq, we often worked out of a vehicle and it
made more sense to use a robot, which is obviously a lot
safer. We didn’t use them as much in Afghanistan, but it
wasn’t by choice. It’s dependent on the location and terrain. In Afghanistan, we did more work on foot. You can’t
very well walk two miles carrying a 100-pound robot. If
you don’t have a vehicle, you don’t have a robot.”
Like robots, bomb suits aren’t always practical to use in
the field, either. “It’s too heavy to carry on patrol, but I
encourage everyone to use one if they can,” says Andela.
“It’s not always suitable for every situation, but it’s a
requirement when we do bomb squad work in town.”
Bonds and Traditions
Because the Corps’ EOD community is small, everyone
is familiar with everyone else. “If I don’t know another
EOD tech personally, I know his name and probably know
people who know him,” Andela says. “You might work
with them on a regular basis or you might just pass as
you rotate in or out of a deployment. But we all know
one another to some degree. When we have the opportunity to work closely as a team, we get to know one
another’s work habits, strengths and weaknesses. We
become a family and genuinely care and worry about
one another. My last teammate is about to leave
Afghanistan and I’m on pins and needles to have
him home. But his return is a mixed blessing,
Sergeant James Smith, a combat engineer with
Alpha Company, 7th Engineer Support Battalion,
1st Marine Logistics Group, operates a Foster-Miller
TALON robot while it handles a dummy round at
Camp Pendleton, Calif..
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Shaltiel Dominguez
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26
because it also means there’s another guy who’s just
starting his rotation there.”
“EOD techs work closely with the units they support, but
in some assignments you get to know the guys more personally. For example, in Iraq, we’d go out with a security
detail made up of guys we’d never met before. We get a
call and we go,” describes Hernandez. “In Afghanistan,
we were all living in the same compound; eating and
sleeping together with the security detail personnel and
working with the same EOD team personnel, too. That
allows stronger bonds to develop.”
Like all military communities, there are special rites and
traditions enjoyed by EOD technicians. “When students
graduate from EOD School, they earn their basic EOD
badge, affectionately known as a ‘crab.’ There’s a ceremony
like from any military training program and students’
parents and family are invited to attend,” Hernandez
elaborates. “But only another EOD badge holder can pin
your crab. It’s a right that’s reserved only for other EOD
techs. There are three levels of mastery and after you have
a certain number of years in the job and have met certain
other requirements, you can earn advanced Senior and
Master badges. This tradition holds whether you’re receiving your Basic, Senior or Master badge.”
Why Do You Do It?
When asked why they do what they do, it was obvious
that the EOD techs interviewed for this story have a deep
and abiding respect and love for their chosen career path.
They aren’t in it for the fame or glory, and it’s certainly
not for the money. Unlike the other services, Marine Corps
EOD techs do not receive hazardous duty pay for their
specialized skills.
“We get $75 in demolition pay per pay period,” says
Andela, “but we don’t get hazardous duty pay like EOD
folks in the other services. There are sometimes bonuses
to encourage folks to laterally move into the EOD field
and sometimes they offer retention incentives, but those
are less common.”
Their motivation is much less tangible than financial gain.
True to his original interest in the field, Zambon still gets
excited about “blowing things up” and he also enjoys a
deeper satisfaction in the challenges he experiences in his
work. “I enjoy jobs that are challenging and this job is like
playing chess with other human beings. I get a lot of satisfaction and a real sense of accomplishment being able
to best an opponent and being the subject matter expert
in the field. The level of responsibility is awesome and
being in this exciting field is a dream come true for me.”
Andela also likes the challenge. “I like being one of the
most needed guys in the Marine Corps and doing a job
that a lot of other Marines can’t do. It’s addicting and I
can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s different for each
individual, but I don’t think it’s the recognition that motivates most EOD techs. For me, it just feels good knowing
I’m ‘that guy’ and it provides a lot of personal gratification
for me.”
“It’s a dangerous job, to be sure, but I like the sense of
accomplishment,” echoes Hernandez. “I like knowing I’ve
removed an IED or diffused a device and saved lives. I like
taking care of the young guys who find the devices. Those
infantry guys do the hard part by locating the devices;
they’re the ones driving the roads and actually identifying
the problem. We come in to get rid of the hazard so we
can all go home to our families.”
There’s no denying the adrenaline rush that accompanies
this kind of work, and Zambon and Hernandez agree
there’s a rush when things go boom! But they all also
agree that the really important part of their job is making sure things don’t explode. “I’m not so much about
blowing stuff up,” Andela smiles. “My job is to keep things
from blowing up! It’s my job to keep others safe. I get my
rush of adrenaline after I’m finished, thanking God that
I’m walking home safely. That’s when the rush hits me.
“Being an EOD tech is one of the most selfless jobs I’ve
ever seen in the Marine Corps,” Andela continues. “You
don’t do this job for yourself; you do it for others …
sometimes for people you don’t even know, like the local
population in war-torn parts of the world. If we get a call,
we take care of it to protect our own troops, to protect
the local citizens, whoever might be at risk. We put our
lives on the line without even thinking about it.”
The bonds formed in life-and-death situations are strong,
as is the respect EOD techs have for one another. “I love
this work and this community,” summarizes Zambon.
“My colleagues are the best people I’ve ever worked with
and I feel it’s my duty to do this work as a tribute to those
who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. This work provides
relevance to their purpose and my purpose as a human
being. It’s my privilege to have a chance to be a part of it.”
Lauren Armstrong is the Contributing Editor and Member
of the FRA Auxiliary. She can be reached at lauren@fra.org.
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Cell phone savings calculation based on industry leaders’ lowest monthly published fees (minutes may vary). Medical alert savings calculation based on PERS providers’ average monthly fees. All rate plans, services and applications require the purchase of a
GreatCall phone and a one-time set-up fee of $35. Coverage and service are not available everywhere. Rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges and are subject to change. No roaming or long distance charges for domestic calls
within the U.S. There are no additional fees to call GreatCall’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and
any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. 5Star service may not be available in remote or enclosed areas. You will not be able to make 5Star or 9-1-1 calls when cellular service is not available. 5Star service will be able to track an
approximate location when your device is turned on, but we cannot guarantee an exact location. Jitterbug, 5Star, 5Star Urgent Response and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics
Co., Ltd. ©2013 Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC. ©2013 GreatCall, Inc. ©2013 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.
New FRA Life Members
28
Congratulations to all the following shipmates who have chosen to become Life Members during the third quarter of 2013.
If you’d like to become a Life Member, call 1-800-FRA-1924 and speak with one of our Member Services representatives.
July
Paul R Bohn
Wayne H Mellendorf
James P Rivera
Robert H Boydstun
Harry E Ettinger
John C Hazzard
George F. Walters
Kenneth Glen Hall
Lanny N Humiston
Bruce A Pitner
Stephen M Jarrett, Sr.
Palmer Black
David C Linja
Melvin Warren
Noel Greenwalt
Linda L Nelson
Gail F Marcotte
David N. Levin
Christopher McGowen
Christine McGowen
Michael D. Nail
James B Jump
Raymond E Burnell, Jr.
093
MAL
046
281
MAL
060
093
047
011
MAL
MAL
MAL
060
MAL
MAL
MAL
MAL
MAL
024
024
024
043
MAL
Daniel L Quinn
Ted W Odle
Gary L Watson
Durwood A Durst
Richard L Sutherland
Carl P Bush
William M Beckner
Frederick M Yarborough
John Brauer
Wayne E Hatch
William T Maloney
Arthur R Northrup
Joel H Nissen
Jeff Harbeson
Edward W. Poole
Carl A Hodge
John T Coulehan
Robert J Kautz
William J Ryan
Gerald L Bayless
Glenn W Schenck, Jr.
Daniel J Olejnik
Kristen D. Evers
024
MAL
029
MAL
MAL
MAL
024
309
061
246
018
MAL
207
024
089
MAL
MAL
MAL
MAL
175
MAL
146
005
Gerald C Hickman
Drew C Nolke
Nicole L. Talbot
Joseph Revolinsky
Bernard Kruger
Terrance Lee
Charles C Gale
Walter M. Blackburn
Bonnie Hoard
Robert D Foley
Lawrence L Nalls
Rudy S Ancheta
Andrew P Melcher, Jr.
George D Davis, III
P H Gilkey, Jr.
Tony L Cruz
James A. Williamson
Harold I. Singer
Terry R Hightower
Jean-Paul E Poisson
Bobbie Dale Graves
Philip A Zeman
James E McGrattan
172
MAL
159
287
040
115
043
MAL
290
060
309
154
358
MAL
MAL
MAL
234
316
208
163
MAL
024
MAL
Stephen Wayne Johnson
Todd C. Shutler
Todd Steele
William W Odell
Phillip G Durbin
Kay L Bauers
Michael Lopeman
Charles Veith
Stephen F Llewellyn
Glenn A Winters
Richard L Van Opynen
Robert Houser
Daniel O Wright, Jr.
Robert J Dunn
Cherie Bradley
Jack Majors
James W Bryant
Walter E Stevenson
Gordon Dierks
Ferrell R Mower
Judson H Springer
MAL
MAL
261
089
MAL
029
020
MAL
097
295
298
044
339
172
070
MAL
MAL
126
MAL
MAL
MAL
061
086
MAL
005
024
MAL
008
161
MAL
012
MAL
046
185
185
MAL
219
Eileen Blakely
William A Hefty
Russell John Borchert
Othan N Mondy
Raymond A. Bisch
Robert N Emmons
Adriano A Deleon
David L Miller
Joseph A Patton
Florence E. McCann
Wendell H Barber
Farlin W Arrington
Cecil W Howell
Linda A Penberthy
Walter Kelly, Jr.
Harmon B Browning
068
091
248
085
063
289
061
365
MAL
186
086
261
MAL
117
313
099
Kenneth D Freese
Daniel P Duff
Peter B Munsell
George W Walls
Ed L Williams
Cornelius J Morris
Richard L Aarhus
Joseph C Hamilton
Marvin A Thomas
James A Raftery
Robert W Archdale
Rodolfo B Ines
James A Conlon
Israel M Sauler
Paul R Ferrebee
Carl E Allen
097
156
099
MAL
089
309
334
061
MAL
MAL
MAL
004
210
036
067
099
Jose L. Cortez
George E Machingo
James S Turner, Jr.
Robert Fisher
Douglas A Pohl
C Elliott Abram
Richard H Flick
Peter R Reva
John Kane
Tony Gonzales
Carlisle A Bateman
George W. Newman
David J Mallett
229
040
115
115
276
029
223
185
334
091
299
MAL
MAL
053
103
163
MAL
MAL
050
298
290
120
346
061
188
Louis C. Dixon
Gilbert S Carnighan
Douglass R Hansen
Horace D Gillikin
Richard Norman Buck
Richard Kozachenko
Carlo Mondragon
David Curzon
Roland Gavin
Robert T Harbs
Timothy M Cleven
Ernest J La Chapelle
101
175
293
MAL
141
061
062
MAL
136
203
273
104
Dennis P Arkebauer
Ronald E Griffin
Samuel L Thompson
Patrick J Sammon
Thomas S Duncan
Michael Scarborough
Dennis M. Herring
Douglas E Douget
Larry E Bostic
Lawrence J Perkins
Richard W Nicholson
John P Kriedler
091
093
MAL
120
MAL
094
263
263
MAL
MAL
MAL
009
King D Collins, Jr.
Donald J Hall
Thomas W Brooks
Steven O’Connor
William R Turner
Michael T Oleary
Richard A Gelinas
David L LeVan
Gary W Riddle
010
MAL
MAL
061
MAL
MAL
022
MAL
MAL
August
Marjil Dee Stokes
Roger D Iles
Steven J Darmstadt
Russell W Noble
Patricia A. Assan-Sousa
Sheldon J. Goodman
Percival V Pilapil
William C Minner
Jared W Jenkins
Linda S. Barselow
Jesse Eugine Cranford
Louis Brown
Stanley J. Martinez
Carla Jean Martinez
Wilson J MacFarlane
Leslie Nicholson
September
Richard N Lester
Christopher N Hunt
Jimmie E Brooks
Robert V Berg, Jr.
James Reaser
James K Shumate
James F Bradley
Donald E Sadowski
Jerry W Broady
Isaac C Brown
Gerald L Doerr
John Hillyer
Now New & Improved
®
The Jacuzzi Walk-In Hot Tub…
your own personal fountain of youth.
The world’s leader in hydrotherapy and relaxation
makes bathing safe, comfortable and affordable.
emember the feeling you had the
first time you got into a hot tub?
The warm water, the energizing
bubbles and the gentle hydrotherapy
of the jets left you feeling relaxed and
rejuvenated. Aches and pains seemed to
fade away, and the bubbling sound of the
water helped put you in a carefree and
contented mood. The first time I ever
got in a hot tub at a resort, I said to
myself “One of these days I’m going to
have one of these in my home– so I can
experience this whenever I want.” Now that
I’m older, I’d still like to have the pain relief
and relaxation, but I have to be careful
about slipping and falling in the bathroom.
That’s why I was thrilled to find out that
Jacuzzi, Inc. had combined the safety of
a walk-in bath with the benefits of a hot tub.
Now that I have one in my home I can have
that luxurious resort experience… whenever
I want.
The moment you step into your New
Jacuzzi® Walk-In Hot Tub you’ll see the
superior design and the quality of the
craftsmanship. The new entry step is
low, so it is easy and safe to get in and
out. The new double-sealing door is 100%
guaranteed not to leak. The high 17” seat
enables you to sit comfortably while you
bathe and to access the easy-to-reach
controls. Best of all, your tub comes with
the patented Jacuzzi® PointPro® jet system
with a new jet pattern– which gives you
a perfectly balanced water-to-air ratio
to massage you thoroughly but gently.
These high-volume, low-pressure pumps
are arranged in a pattern that creates
swirls and spirals that provide both a total
body massage and targeted treatment of
specific pressure points. There is even
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an in-line heater to maintain the water
temperature. The tub features a high gloss
acrylic coating which is more durable,
scratch resistant and easier to clean than
traditional gel-coat surfaces. It’s American
made with full metal frame construction
Why Jacuzzi is the Best
3 Maximum Pain Relief Therapeutic water AND air jets to
help you feel your best.
3 Personalized Massage New adjustable jet placement for
pinpoint control. This tub is the first
to offer a specialized foot massage
experience. Its unique spinning
motion provides optimal therapy to
feet and legs. Best of all, you get it at
no additional charge.
3 Easy and Safe Entry Low entry, double-sealing leak-proof
door that is easy to open and close.
3 Comfortable Seating Convenient 17 inch raised seat.
3 Durable and Easy to Clean State of the art acrylic surface.
3 Worry Free Enjoyment Thanks to Jacuzzi Inc.’s Limited
Lifetime Warranty.
3 No Hassle Installation Designed to fit in your existing
tub space.
and comes with a limited lifetime warranty
on both the tub and the operating system.
Isn’t it time you rediscovered the comfort
and luxury of a soothing therapeutic
hot tub experience again? Call now and
knowledgeable product experts will
answer any questions and you can have
one in your home next week. Don’t wait,
call now.
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Looking For…
30
Crew members on USS Tattnall
(DDG-19)
Looking for anyone who served aboard
the USS Tattnall (DDG-19) from April
1963 through January 1999. Contact
Richard Harmon at Dharmonlpga1@
aol.com or 386-235-8723.
Jeff “Buck” Mathews
Stationed in GITMO 1970s–1980s.
SeaBee Builder 1st Class or Chief. Was
a member of FRA Branch 40. I played
softball against him and would like to
reconnect. Please contact Jon “Bubba”
Corriveau at 757-714-5757.
Lee Ellis
He was a gunner’s mate aboard USS
Blair (DD-147) between 1943 and
1945. He was washed overboard,
subsequently rescued and later transferred to teach at gunnery school in
Washington, D.C. Anyone with information, please contact Jack Waddell at
1289 Wekiva Ln, West Melbourne, FL
or jwad313141@aol.com
These notices are published on a space available
basis. Notices must be submitted in writing.
E-mail fratoday@fra.org or mail your request to: FRA,
Looking for…, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA, 22314.
Reunions
U.S. Navy Postal Clerks
April 27–May 1, 2014, Charleston, S.C.
Contact Russ Nichols, 843-552-9629,
PegNicho@aol.com
USS Doyle (FFG-39)
May 16 –18, 2014, Jacksonville, Fla.
Contact J. W. Bowles, Jr., 904-6420725, jwbowlesjr@yahoo.com
USS Taylor (DD/DDE-468)
September 21–25, 2014, Charleston,
S.C. Contact James G. O’Neill, 14200
Hollows Drive, Montpelier, VA 23192,
804-212-8911, oneillfalm@aol.com
Members can post reunions online at www.fra.org,
submit to reunions@fra.org or mail to: FRA Reunions,
125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314.
Looking for Lost Shipmates?
FRA can help!
FRA Today’s “Looking for …” column is published on a space available basis
and has been successful in reuniting many shipmates. Notices must be submitted in writing to fratoday@fra.org or you can mail your request to FRA,
Looking for, 125 N. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314.
FRA’s Facebook page is also a great place to find old friends, both military
and civilian. Like FRA at www.fra.org/fb and post your request there.
Other Resources:
TogetherWeServed (TWS): FRA has an ongoing partnership with TWS, a
website where military veterans can reconnect. Visit navy.togetherweserved.
com,marines.togetherweserved.com or coastguard.togetherweserved.com to
look for old buddies. (Some TWS services are available free of charge; others
require an annual paid membership.)
Military.com: Visit www.military.com/buddy-finder to search for former
shipmates.
National Archives: Another great resource is
www.archives.gov/veterans/locate-service-members.html
“WOW!”
You are cordially invited to RETHINK PINK with the $59 Palos Ring!
W
OW! That's what they said last year when the
12-carat "Pink Martian" diamond sold for $17.4
million. They said it again this year when the 34-carat
pink “Princie Diamond” fetched an amazing $39 million at
auction. "WOW!" has become the official exclamation of
stunning pink stones.
Science conquers snobbery. While the idle rich blow
millions bidding on massive rocks, scientists have been
hard at work reinventing the idea of luxury. The results
are simply stunning. Every brilliant facet is proof that
our exclusive, lab-created DiamondAura is more than a
diamond alternative, it’s a diamond superlative.
You probably said it when you saw this ring. You definitely
said it when you saw the price. Get used to it. Because
when you wear the Palos Pink DiamondAura® Ring,
you're going to hear "WOW!" all the time.
Our blush-colored rounds are bolder, brighter and shine
with more clarity than diamonds. The “fire” inside
DiamondAura actually surpasses what you see in flawless
mined stones... for 99.999% less! Looking at them in
.925 sterling silver, only one word comes to mind...
Pink stones make headlines for a reason. As one
of the rarest colored stones on Earth, pink diamonds stir
the passions of serious (and seriously wealthy) gem
collectors. The ownership of such spectacular pink
sparkle has been reserved for the privileged few. But
today you can bring home the “pink” for ONLY $59!
We guarantee you'll love this ring. Wear the Palos
for 30 days. If you're not impressed, simply send it back
for a full refund of your purchase price. It’s that simple.
But it’s also more likely that once you see it up close, the
ring and the radiance will be impossible to resist.
Palos Pink DiamondAura® Ring (2 2/5 ctw)— Appraised at $250*—Only $59 +S&P
This offer is limited to the first 2500 orders to this ad only, so call NOW!
1-888-306-7185
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®
14101 Southcross Drive W., Dept. PPK172-01,
Burnsville, Minnesota 55337
www.stauer.com
Promotional Code PPK172-01
* For more information concerning the appraisal, visit
http://www.stauer.com/appraisedvalues.asp.
Please mention this code when you call.
Smart Luxuries—Surprising Prices™
TAPS In Memoriam
32
NAMEBRANCH
NAMEBRANCH
Barba, Thomas S, CWO4, USN
Beltz, Russell C, CDR, USN
Bisner, Edward S, POC, USN
Boehm, Charles J, AOC, USN
Bowers, Edward E, BMC, USN
Boyd, Robert N, CWO2, USMC
Brewer, Eugene, SMC, USN
Brown, David, AK1, USN
Bullock, Robert, HMCS, USN
Buxton, William, ICC(SS), USN
MAL
MAL
MAL
126
230
126
060
162
106
269
Judd, Gerald E, ATC, USN
009
Jutkiewicz, Thaddeus S, AXC, USN132
Carlson, Ken L, CW02, USN
Cook, Clifton E, PO1, USN
Etheridge, Billy E, CPO, USN
Eubank, Guy C, AECM, USN
004
011
MAL Marsh, Robert J, ADCS, USN
McDermott, Thomas W, CTTC,
110
USN246
MAL McDonald, Clovis K, LCDR, USN 060
McEvers, James R, AFCM, USN 091
MAL Moreno, Feliciano, RMC(SS), USN 276
022 Murray, Vincent T, AD1, USN
022
Fahrney, Robert J, MSCS, USN
Farmer, Billy H, BMC, USN
Farmer, Roger E, SK1, USN
Ferris, Alonzo E, TD1, USN
Flores, Johnny C, SDCM, USN
Foster, Everett P, FTCS, USN
Funderburk, Carson, CPO, USN
009
175
348
070
067
316
029
Nichols, Elmer R, ADJ1, USN
Gamber, Leslie L, MR1, USN
Gannaway, John D, ADCS, USN
Gerczak, Peter J, CM1, USN
053
110
024
Hadley, Richard K, RM1, USN
Hale, Charles W, SKCS, USNR
Harris, Jack M, HMC, USN
Heaphy, John D, PACM, USCG
Heffernan, Michael, FCC, USNR
Herron, Temple S, ADRC, USN
Hoppe, Robert H, ADJ1, USN
Horngren, Earl W, CDR(SC), USN
023
047
MAL
335
MAL
175
238
018
Ray, James W., TM2 (SW), USN
Rhamy, Thomas L, LCDR, USN
Rhodes, Carl, AD2, USN
Richards, William V, GM1, USN
Robbins, Ralph L, GMGC, USN
Rubel, Benard J, LCDR, USN
Isaac, James E, CPO, USN
367
Jacobsen, Ronald D, LT, USN
Johns, Bobby L, SN1, USN
Johnson, John W, HTCS, USN
Jones, Winston G, HTC, USN
Jorgensen, Gene, AMEC, USN
038
294
MAL
009
276
Dentici, Robert J, OSC, USNR
Dillon, George G, AKC, USN
Kaselnak, John R, YNC, USN
Kelso, Frank, ADM, USN
Kiger, Edward E, AFCM, USN
Kirkland, Benjamin T, HMC, USN
136
MAL
099
MAL
Levy, Arthur H, AGC, USN
Littke, Milton H, ADC, USN
Lofstrand, Neil I., AMHC, USNR
071
097
136
124
O’Brien, Michael R, ABF1, USN 126
Parker, Donald E, USN
Phillips, Robert, BMC, USN
Price, Willard D, GMC, USN
NAMEBRANCH
Sobolosky, John, PO1, USN
099
Stark, Tommy L, ENCS, USN
009
Steelman, Darwin L, CSC, USN
057
Stevenson, Lawrence D, CPO, USN038
Steward, Dallas, SD1, USN
084
Stiles, Louis D, TMCS(SS), USN 217
Sturm, Junior C, LCDR, USN
147
Swinford, David G, COL, USMC
174
Taylor, Glenn T, AMCS, USN
126
Thompson, Arthur S, SKCS, USN 005
Troller, George R, ABC, USN
290
147
Vinson, Raymond R, CSC, USN
261
MAL
Wait, Albert J, HMC, USN
Weidinger, Richard A, ETC, USN
059
Wilson, John V, MMC, USN
061
Wise, Robert, MMC(SW), USN
MAL
Wood, Virgil M, SCPO, USN
032
022
Yacchari, Donald L, CPO, USN
022
110
048
089
170
MAL
175
MAL
Zinser, Richard A, ADRC, USN
294
Saddler, Robert L, AO2, USN
162
Sala, Anthony N, BMC, USN
175
Sanders, Billy T, GYSGT, USMC MAL
Savell, Carleton K, AEC, USN
026
Scott, Ernest B., BM1, USN
MAL
Sharp, Robert H, CT3, USN
194
Sheehy, Lawrence T, CEC, USN 117
Sillmon, Ronnie L., SF3, USN
054
Simmons, Thomas G, AMSC, USN MAL
Simmons, Howard L, HMCM, USN146
Skeith, George G, CWO, USN
MAL
Smith, Jimmie L, SK1, USN
MAL
Snyder, Marion G, CSC, USN
382 Names in red indicate 50 year continuous members.
Breakthrough technology converts phone calls to captions.
New amplified phone
lets you hear
AND see the
conversation.
Hello mrs fleming
this is
dr martin how are
you
today? I just wante
d to
give you an update
on
your new prescripti
on
The Captioning Telephone
converts phone conversations
to easy-to-read captions
for individuals with
hearing loss.
SEE what you’ve
1-888-734-5235
hear well over a traditional phone.
80676
Do you get discouraged
been missing!
when you hear your
telephone ring? Do
you avoid using your
phone because hearing
difficulties make it hard
to understand the person
on the other end of the
line? For many Americans
the telephone conversation
– once an important part of
everyday life – has become a
thing of the past. Because they
can’t understand what is said to
them on the phone, they’re often
Finally… a phone you can use
cut off from friends, family, “For years I avoided phone calls because again. The Captioning Telephone
doctors and caregivers. Now,
is also packed with features to
I couldn’t understand the caller…
thanks to innovative technology
help make phone calls easier.
now I don’t miss a thing!”
there is finally a better way.
The keypad has large, easy
to use buttons. You get adjustable volume
A simple idea… made possible with sophisticated
amplification along with the ability to save captions
technology. If you have trouble understanding a call,
for review later. It even has an answering machine that
the Captioning Telephone can change your life. During a
provides you with the captions of each message.
phone call the words spoken to you appear on the phone’s
screen – similar to closed captioning on TV. So when
See for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Try the
you make or receive a call, the words spoken to you are
Captioning Telephone in your own home and if you are
not only amplified by the phone, but scroll across the
not completely amazed, simply return it within 30-days
phone so you can listen while reading everything that’s
for a refund of the product purchase price. It even comes
said to you. The captioning function can be turned on as
with a 5-year warranty.
needed. Each call is routed through a call center, where
Captioning Telephone
computer technology – aided by a live representative –
generates immediate voice-to-text translations. The
Call now for our special introductory price!
captioning is real-time, accurate and readable. Your
'EPPRS[8SPP*VII
conversation is private and the captioning service doesn’t
cost you a penny – all you need is a high-speed Internet
connection from any Internet provider and a standard
4PIEWIQIRXMSRTVSQSXMSRGSHI
phone line. Callers do not need special equipment or a
The Captioning Telephone is intended for use by people with hearing loss. In purchasing
a Captioning Telephone, you acknowledge that it will be used by someone who cannot
captioning phone in order to speak with you.
News from the branches
34
BRANCH 294 Crossville, Tenn.
The branch honored four shipmates in May with
Certificates of Appreciation for their service and
devotion during WWII. Shown left to right: Shipmate
Bobby L. Johns, who passed away at the age of 87
shortly after this presentation, served as a First Class
Storekeeper onboard a Navy amphibious ship
anchored off Iwo Jima. He vividly recalled the raising
of the U.S. flag atop Mount Suribachi and what it
meant to American forces. Turk Therkelston, 88,
participated in the Iwo Jima invasion and also
witnessed the historic flag-raising. He was a Third
Class Signalman during the Okinawa invasion and
his vessel sailed into Tokyo Bay with the USS
Missouri and he witnessed the Japanese surrender
ceremony. Mario Gambaccini, 89, served as a Navy
Third Class Water Tender aboard USS Todd in the
Pacific Theater and participated in campaigns from
New Caledonia up the chain of Pacific Islands. He
also witnessed the Japanese surrender, and vividly
recalled how “the sky turned black with aircraft
[during the surrender] as we didn’t know what the
enemy had in mind.” Henry Dellarco, 88, retired
from the Navy after 20 years as a Chief Aviation
Machinist Mate. His WWII service included duty on
Douglas Dive Bombers, tasked to hunt and drop
500-pound bombs on surfaced German submarines
patrolling the North Atlantic and rescue downed
aircrews. Charles L. Burrus, 85, was a Third Class
Electricians Mate onboard LST-494 and served in
the Asiatic Pacific Theater as part of the campaign
to liberate the Philippines from occupying Japanese
forces. These shipmates are, indeed, members of
the Greatest Generation.
BRANCH 137 Minden, Nev.
The branch’s Independence Day Picnic
featured Elk burgers provided by
Shipmate Joe Fowles and included the
presentation of longevity and service pins
to shipmates by Nevada Rep. Mark
Amodei. Pictured (l to r) are Norbert
Monohan, Jim Laird, Bob Stevenson,
Bud Harris, Congressman Amodei, Chuck
Rankin, Rick Rineax and Bob Ford.
BRANCH 89 Atlanta, Ga.
BRANCH 126 Jacksonville, Fla.
Shipmates and Auxiliary members, along with
two grandchildren, participated in the
Independence Day Parade in Middleburg, Fla.
Shipmate Jim Holcombe had the
honor of administering the oath to
his granddaughter, Haley D.
Holcombe, during commissioning
ceremonies following her graduation
from the U.S. Air Force Academy.
News from the branches
35
BRANCH 298 Grand Rapids, Mich.
BRANCH 154 Baguio City, Philippines
Branch and Unit members celebrated
American-Philippines Friendship Day on July
4th and the event was attended by members
of VFW Post 124, the American Legion, Mayor
M. Domogan and City Councilor L. Tabanda.
Shipmate Dan Allen (center) recruited and
assisted in the initiation of Shipmates
Alex Decess (left) and Don Crater (right).
Both signed up for two years ($48) and
each received a $24 check back from the
branch for participating in the branch’s
two-for-one deal.
BRANCH 105 Owensboro, Ky.
BRANCH 106 Harrisburg, Pa.
Several FRA leaders from the Northeast Region attended
a tribute to late Shipmate Sam Hayman. Shown (l to r)
are PRPNE James Clay, PRPNE Carl Stepp, Branch 106
President Albert Engle, Maddie Bushman (Sam’s daughter), PRPNE William Starkey, PRPNE J. Earl Norman and
RVPNE James Brown, who were on hand to witness the
unveiling of Hayman’s headstone.
Shipmates and Auxiliary members gathered to honor Shipmate Jim Lee, who
marked 40 years of continuous FRA
membership. Shown (l to r) are Unit
President Linda Drawdy, Branch President
Harold Phillips, Shipmate Lee and PRPNC
Robert Melson.
BRANCH 162 New Orleans, La.
Shown (l to r) are Shipmate Jerry Dupre and PRPSC
Dave Field with Marine Cadet Major Thomas Keller and
Shipmate Bob Kinghorn. Keller, who attends Jesuit
High School in New Orleans, was honored with a $25
gift card and a JrROTC medal from the branch. The
branch presented a similar award to Navy Cadet Bryant
Riles (not shown) at Brother Martin High School.
To submit a photo for News From the Branches, please e-mail a photo as an attachment in jpeg format to FRAToday@fra.org
or mail a high-quality photograph to FRA Today, 125 N. West Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Please include a brief description of
the photograph and include the names of those pictured. Laser prints and scanned copies of photographs cannot be accepted.
FRA AUXILIARY NEWS
36
A Message from Past National President Cindy Rodham Tuck
There have been some exciting new “happenings” for the Auxiliary this year.
The structure of the FRA and Auxiliary will change from nine regions to eight
after the merge of the Northeast and New England regions. Over the last year, representatives from both regions worked to compose new bylaws and standing rules,
making diligent efforts to integrate policies that satisfied both regions. The proposed
bylaws were carefully reviewed and approved by both regions. After the National
Convention in Chattanooga, the two regions will combine to include Maine, New
Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and
New York. There will be seven units — Unit 156 (Brunswick, Maine), Unit 66
(Rockland, Mass.), Unit 42 (Quonset/Davisville, R.I.) Unit 20 (Groton, Conn.), Unit
229 (Mid-Hudson, N.Y.), Unit 226 (Staten Island, N.Y.) and Unit 124 (Lakehurst,
N.J.) — in the new Northeast/New England Region. I have the privilege of serving
as the new region’s first president and PRPNE Sara Piacention (Unit 124) will serve
as regional vice president. PRPNE Jim Brown will be the new region’s FRA president
and Shipmate Roland E. Miller will be the FRA regional vice-president. Members
of the NE/New England Region are very excited about the merger and are looking
forward to working together to create a strong and healthy region.
We’re also excited to have added two new units: Unit 294 in Crossville, Tenn.,
and Unit 299 in Wilmington, N.C. NP Diane Hoover was able to reinstate Daugapan
Unit 247 in the Philippines, thanks to the efforts of MSA PNP Pat Boudreaux and
NES Doris Fri. And there’s the possibility of adding another on the West Coast, so it’s
exciting to see our organization grow.
NP Diane Hoover, NVP Carolyn Whitaker, NChap Sylvia Wainio, PNP Sandy
Robbins, PRPSE Mildred Brice and many other national and regional officers were in
attendance at the institution and installation of new officers of Unit 294 Crossville on
May 4, 2013. RPSE Babe Kilgore presented Unit President Julie Fogel with the gavel
and PRPSE Jean Smith conducted the initiation of the 22 members, which included
those members who had transferred from other units. The members were inspired
as they were instructed in the Principles of the Auxiliary — Loyalty, Protection and
Service.
RPEC-elect Christina Murray, Theresa Smith, PRPEC Aida Littlejohn, Mary Hall
and FRA PNP George and Mary Kay assisted with the institution, installation and
initiation of Unit 299 in Wilmington, N.C. on September 21, 2013. The new officers
are President Christine Hicks and Secretary Louise Williams. PRPEC Jackie Scarbro
worked hard for the last two years to get this unit up and running.
The entire membership of the Auxiliary extends a warm welcome to the two new
units and wishes them the best of luck.
Members of the newly instituted Unit 294 in
Crossville, Tenn.
Auxiliary members of the Northeast Region
gathered for the last time in July.
Cindy Rodham Tuck
Past National President
The final convention for New England
Region was held on September 6, 2013,
hosted by Branch and Unit 20 in Groton,
Conn. Many national officers were in
attendance, including Auxiliary NP Diane
Hoover and FRA NP Mark Kilgore, shown
at the National Submarine Memorial
with FRA RPNEng Regional President Paul
Loveless and Auxiliary PRNEng and PNP
Cindy Rodham Tuck.
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