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The Crier Newsletter
The Crier, Spotlight on the Council and Chapters, Social Media
The VCOC Crier is the Quarterly Newsletter of the Virginia Council of Chapters (VCOC), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). Per MOAA Charter, the Crier Newsletter remains nonpartisan, all regards.
The purpose of the Crier is to tell the VCOC story. Each issue of the Crier includes officer contact information, feature articles, chapter spotlight section, VCOC schedule and sponsor recognition.
The Crier is scheduled to be published electonically in March, June, September and December. This noted, actual publishing and posting dates may vary. Chapter input is most welcome, due to the editor on the 10th of the month prior to publication. Target publication dates are 10 Feb for March issue, 10 May for June issue, 10 August for September issue and 10 November for December issue; actual publication dates may vary. The Chapters and Council in the Spotlight section of the VCOC Homepage (below) allows for immediate posting of both Council and Chapter Stories. Provide stories for the Council Crier or the VCOC Homepage with supporting photographs to CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) at: mvng288@aol.com.
The purpose of the Crier is to tell the VCOC story. Each issue of the Crier includes officer contact information, feature articles, chapter spotlight section, VCOC schedule and sponsor recognition.
The Crier is scheduled to be published electonically in March, June, September and December. This noted, actual publishing and posting dates may vary. Chapter input is most welcome, due to the editor on the 10th of the month prior to publication. Target publication dates are 10 Feb for March issue, 10 May for June issue, 10 August for September issue and 10 November for December issue; actual publication dates may vary. The Chapters and Council in the Spotlight section of the VCOC Homepage (below) allows for immediate posting of both Council and Chapter Stories. Provide stories for the Council Crier or the VCOC Homepage with supporting photographs to CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) at: mvng288@aol.com.
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To social media, VCOC membership may connect with Social Media, Facebook: Military Officers Association of America.
VCOC Chapter Social Media spotlight, Facebook: George C. Marshall Chapter.
VCOC Chapter Social Media spotlight, Facebook: George C. Marshall Chapter.
spotlight on the Council and chapters
The Crier, Chapters and Council in the Spotlight, Sponsors
The Crier
Smash On Station Mt. Vernon Chapter
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Esteemed Colleagues,
We must continue to serve veterans in need during the holiday season. We all have deployed during many administrations through our long and illustrious careers, and we stayedfocused on the mission assigned and the task at hand. November offers reminders to be thankful and to serve during the holidays celebrated this month.
Chapter News
Chapter Schedule to the end of 2023 – The Annual Business meeting and luncheon is scheduled for Saturday, November 18th from 1130-1300 at GLORY DAYS GRILL, 3141 DukeSt, Alexandria, VA. Our guest speaker will be Col Gerald “Jerry” Krueger, MOAA Life Member and Commanderof VFW Post 609. Jerry will be presenting history of Alexandria National Cemetery and topics of joint interest to the VFW and MOAA. We will also have the installation of officers for 2024-2025.
Wreaths Across America (WAA) - The Mount Vernon Chapter, MOAA is participating in the Wreaths across America Project, the national effort that remembers and honors our veterans and educates all generations about their sacrifice. We are supporting them with the purchase of wreaths in the coming months for their placement at Alexandria NationalCemetery on December 16, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. Mount Vernon Chapter also uses this as a fundraising effort that helps service members and their families in the Fort Belvoir Community. November Observances – On November 10th 1775, A Corps of Marines was created by a resolution of the Continental Congress. In memory of all Marines, we who are Marines commemorate the birthday of our Corps by calling to mind theglories of its long and illustrious history, not the least of which was being born in a Tavern!
November 11th is Veterans Day, a federal holiday in the United States observed annually to honor military veterans. Finally, 23 November is Thanksgiving Day, a day for all people to give thanks for the blessings bestowed upon them and for whatthey have.
Final Thoughts: Personally, November has always been a reflective month. The right to vote and the concept of E Pluribus Unum are established tenets within our country. The holiday of Thanksgiving always provided family gatherings to be grateful for what we have and who we are as Americans. Finally, as I joined the Marine Corps in 1975, the 10th of November has held a special place on the November calendar. I celebrate the legacy of the Corps of I was so proud to be a member of and to serve this great Nation.
“America belongs to the People. It does not belong to Congress, It doesn’t belong to special interest groups. It doesn’t belong to the courts. It belongs to ‘we the People’…” John Jay, Founding Father.
Never stop serving.Semper Fidelis,Smash
VCOC President installs Portsmouth Area Chapter at January Meeting 2022 Click below icon to view article
VCOC Members Support MOAA at United States Navy League Sea Air Space Exposition 2023
VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) and VCOC Treasurer CAPT Maria Kelly USA (Former) joined the MOAA National Booth at the United States Navy League Sea Air Space Convention, Gaylord Hotel, National Harbor, Maryland April 3-4, 2023.
The purpose of the VCOC visit at the MOAA Sea Air Space booth 2023 was to network with fellow military officers and grow the MOAA Brand - also seek volunteers for the VCOC Board, 2024-2026 term.
Pictured below, left to right: MOAA National Staffer Mr. Greg Acs, VCOC Treasurer CAPT Maria Kelly USA (Former), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
Sea Air Space is the largest Maritime Expo in the U.S. bringing the U.S. defense industry and key military decision-makers together for three days of informative educational sessions, important policy discussions and a dynamic exhibit hall floor.
Portsmouth Chapter Participates in Advocacy in Action 2023
MAJ Sherry Ferki, USA (Ret)
On 11 May 2023, MAJ Ferki, CAPT LaLonde, and CDR Smith, VCOC President and PACMOAA member met via Zoom with Rep. Bobby Scott; Paige Swartz, his Legislative Director; and Dillion Creek for about 15 minutes. This was a follow up visit from the 26 April Advocacy in Action on the Hill when CDR Linc Smith and RDML Hewitt met with Paige Swartz.CDR Smith began the meeting thanking Rep Scott for his support for the military community and briefly reviewed the productive meeting on 26 April with Paige Swartz. MAJ Ferki reviewed the 2023 Advocacy in Action issues:
Restore the full basic housing allowance (BAH) - The current BHA does not cover the federal definition of “affordable housing”, especially for Jr enlisted. This has worsened with rising housing costs for both rental properties and home sales. It was stressed the HR 2537 addresses this issue and only has 42 co-sponsors at this point.
Restore the TRICARE pharmacy network – This resulted from a DHA cost cutting measure that resulted in the loss of many independent pharmacies and decreased in network pharmacies about 25% from 55,000 locations to 42,000. This impacted the elderly, those living in rural areas (which includes much of Suffolk and some of Chesapeake), and individuals with serious medical conditions. MOAA is asking that you support language in the FY2024 NDAA to analyze the data about access to pharmacies by vulnerable populations.Both of these issues were tied in with the importance of supporting the all-volunteer force. Military members, retirees, veterans and their families need to feel their quality of life is protected. Most recruits come from military families and with many beneficiaries feeling like they are paying more for less, recommending military service to others is not likely to happen. This can also impact retention of current military members.
Rep. Scott seemed concerned with both these issues and said he agreed to review them. He said that any money for the military would be impacted by the looming debt ceiling and spent several minutes discussing this. CDR Smith thanked Rep Scott again for supporting the Richard Starr Act and asked his assistance in getting several other Virginia Representatives and Senator Warner on board with co-sponsoring the bill. When asked if there were any questions, Rep. Scott said he wanted to be sure he knew what we were asking for. The MOAA asks were again reviewed: Co-sponsoring HR 2537 and supporting language in FY2024 NDAA per analyzing access to pharmacies. As there were no other questions, we all thanked Rep Scott and his team for meeting with us.
VCOC Holds Third Quarter Meeting 2023 at General George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor
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The Virginia Council of Chapters held the Council third quarter meeting 2023 at the General George C. Marshall Dodona Manor, Leesburg, Virginia, July 12, 2023. With Chapter Presidents and Representatives from around the Commonwealth in attendance, the hybrid in person and virtual meeting was the most attended Council quarterly meeting in recent years. Two awards were presented at the meeting.
First was an VCOC Honorary Membership presented to Lt. Gen. Dana Atkins, USAF (Ret), ninth President and CEO of MOAA. MOAA Vice President for Council/Chapter and Member Support CAPT Jim Carman, USN (Ret) accepted the award on behalf of Lt. Gen. Atkins (pictured below, top).
Next, pictured below bottom, VCOC Legislative Affairs Chair COL Monti Zimmerman, USA (Ret) awarded VCOC State Legislator of the Year to Virgina State Senator Jeremy McPike (D 29th).
During the meeting, MOAA Director of Government Relations for Currently Serving and Retired Affairs Lt.Col. Mark Belinsky, USA (Ret) provided an update on the most recent MOAA National Legislative Affairs advocacy, (pictured below) to include work on legislation to preserve full burial benefits as Arlington Cemetary nears capacity.
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2LT John Kelly, USA Commissioned at University of Dayton
2LT John Kelly, USA, son of VCOC Treasurer CAPT Maria Kelly, USA (former) was Commissioned at the University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio, on 16 December 2023. Pictured above: CW5 Paul Kelly, ARNG, CAPT Maria Kelly, USA (former), 2ndLT John Kelly, USA.
Pictured below, left to right: CW5 Kevin Edwards, ARNG, CW5 John Cally, ARNG, Virginia National Guard Commander MG James Ring, ARNG, CW5 Paul Kelly, ARNG, 2ndLT John Kelly, USA, MG James Nuttal, ARNG (Ret), CAPT Maria Kelly, USA (former)
PACMOAA 2023 CHRISTMAS GALA
Maj Sherry Ferki, USA (Ret)
Forty-eight PACMOAA members, spouses, and guests attended the Christmas Gala and donated generously to Toys for Tots and Portsmouth Volunteers for the Homeless. LtCol Paul Pratt, the Senior Instructor for the MCJROTC from Churchland High School, attended with three of his cadets. It was a great evening with wonderful camaraderie, delicious food, and Christmas music.
Pictured below, top: Attendees enjoying the Tidewater Concert Band performance. To the far left: Dr Darlene Washington, the Executive Director of Portsmouth Volunteers for the Homeless (PVH) also attended. PACMOAA has been donating items to PVH regularly since 2011.
Pictured below, top: Attendees enjoying the Tidewater Concert Band performance. To the far left: Dr Darlene Washington, the Executive Director of Portsmouth Volunteers for the Homeless (PVH) also attended. PACMOAA has been donating items to PVH regularly since 2011.
Pictured above top: Cadet GySgt Anderson and Cadet 2nd LT Lepelletier with donations. PACMOAA has donated toys for Toys for Tots annually for about 15 years.
Virginia Council of Chapters Holds Second Quarter Meeting at George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor House
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The Virginia CounciI of Chapters held the Council Second Quarter 2023 meeting on 12 April 2023 at George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor, Leesburg Virginia. Conducted as a Hybrid Zoom Virtual Meeting, Eleven Chapters were in attendance. Representatives from the Falcons Landing, Northern Virginia, Richmond Area and Virginia Peninsula Chapters attended in person, with seven other chapters attending on a virtual basis.
Pictured above, MOAA's Vice President of Government Relations, Col. Dan Merry, USAF (Ret), was guest speaker. Col. Merry is responsible for leading a team of nine to ensure compensation and benefits, to include health care, adequately support our all-volunteer force through recruiting and retention. He provided an update to VCOC on MOAA Advocacy in Action 2023, scheduled for 24-28 April 2023, Washington DC, fielding questions from Council members after his presentation .
VCOC Members in attendance were provided a catered lunch and tour of the Marshall House subsequent to the meeting. Above Picture, left to right LCDR Wayne Sine, USN (Ret), Col. Dan Merry, USAF (Ret), CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), COL Monti Zimmerman, USA (Ret), Marshall House Docent Bill Brooks, Col. Tom Shubert, USAF (Ret).
Pictured below, left to right: Col. Dan Merry, USAF (Ret), CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret)
Central Virginia Chapter Year in Review 2023
From the Central Virginia Chapter: Year in review 2023 in pictures, as forwarded by CVC Newsletter Editor COL Brion Smith, USA (Ret).
Above: Chapter President John Warnecke presents the CVC MOAA Wreath at the grave of Thomas Jefferson at the annual celebration of the his birthday on 13 April.
Above: CVC Luncheon guest speaker Lt Col Bryan Dick stands by to be introduced with his father, Maj Gen Daniel Dick, in background.
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Above: Chapter ROTC Program Representative John Swartzwelder presents Leadership award to UVA 2023 recipient Michelle Bereznyak, USN.
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Above: Congressman Bob Good speaks at the June CVC Luncheon and emphasizes his support for all Service Members, Virginia Veterans and their families.
Above: Members of the chapter that served in the United States Air Force pose prior to the cutting of the birthday cake in recognition of the official founding of the service. From left to right are Dale Robinson, Roman Cybak, Tad Oelstrom, John Down and Bill Adams.
Below: Chapter Member Carolyn Still recruiting new members at the Bradley T. Arms Marine Corps League Birthday Celebration.
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City of Chesapeake Veterans Day Ceremony 2023
From the City of Chesapeake Website: The Mayor's Commission on Veterans Affairs honored the brave men and women of our Nation's Armed Forces on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at City Hall.
Command Sergeant Major Michael A. McMurdy, United States Army Center for Initial Military Training was the keynote speaker. Western Branch High School Air Force JROTC (pictured below) presented the Colors, with the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command Band providing music.
Pictured below, the National Anthem was performed by Sherrif Capt. Katrina Washington, City of Chesapeake, with Commissioner Linc Smith, USNR serving as Master of Ceremonies.
Plaques were presented honoring Obakai Grandisson, Captain, USMC and Charles L. Wood, Sr. , HMCM, U.S. Navy.
Pictured Below: Mayor Rick West (center) and Head Commissioner Zach Williams (right) with Command Sergeant Major Michael A. McMurdy (second from left) with United States Army Training and Doctrine Command Band members.
Click on below button to view selected images of the Veterans Day Ceremony, as posted on the City of Chesapeake Website.
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Richmond Area Chapter Hosts Annual Holiday Gala
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The Richmond Area Chapter held the annual RACMOAA Holiday Gala 2023, 8 December, Meadowbrook Country Club, Richmond, Virginia.
Pictured above: RACMOAA Chapter President Col Mark Rich, USA (Ret) presiding over the RACMOAA Signature event, which included holiday buffet and music, also Maj Paul Willard, USAF (Ret) highlighting the history of the United Services Organization (USO) during his "Comfort and Joy" presentation.
Pictured below, left to right: VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), Kathy Rich, COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret), LTC Owen Waltman, USA (Ret).
Heritage Hunt Chapter holds Holiday Christmas Social
The Heritage Hunt Christmas Social and Dinner was held in the Heritage Hunt Club House Ball Room, Gainesville, Virginia, 7 December.
The evening program included a special performance by the Battlefield High School Choral Group (pictured below).
The Holiday Christmas Social also included donations for the “Toys for Tots” program.
VCOC President CDR Linc Smith , USNR (Ret) administered the oath of office to the Heritage Hunt Chapter Board members elect: President - LCDR Jim Beavers, USN (Ret), First Vice President - COL Bernard Ellis, USA (Ret), Second Vice President - CWO2 Merle Jacobson, USNR (Ret),
Secretary - LCDR Don Rusch, USN (Ret), Director - CAPT Peter Wright, USN (Ret).
Pictured below, left to right: VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) and Heritage Hunt Chapter President LCDR Jim Beavers, USN (Ret).
VCOC Secretary Installs Central Virginia Chapter Officers
VCOC Secretary Lt Col John Down, USAF (Ret.), installed the Central Virginia Chapter Officer slate at the Annual CVC Holiday Gala, The Club at Glenmore, Charlottesville, Virginia, 14 December 2023.
Pictured below, left to right:
Dr. Carolyn Still, MembershipLCDR Bill Tunner, MD, USPHS (Ret.), DirectorCol Dan Moy, USAF (Ret.), Legislative AffairsCAPT Dave Hilty, USN (Ret.), DirectorLt.Col. Paul LaBrie, USA (Ret.), TreasurerLt .Gen. Tad Oelstrom, USAF (Ret.), Vice President & ProgramsDr. Lucy Johnson, SecretaryCOL Brion Smith, USA (Ret.), The Bugle EditorCAPT John Warnecke, USN (Ret.)
PresidentCPT Ruth McWilliams, USA (Former)
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Sponsors
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VCOC expresses continued appreciation to Patriots Colony in Williamsburg for ongoing sponsorship for both our annual VCOC Congressional Affairs Luncheon and Quarterly Meetings.
View Patriots Colony Webpage here:
Patriots Colony
From the Patriots Colony Website:
The Best in Retirement Community LivingLocated in Williamsburg, Virginia-one of the country's best places to retire-Patriots Colony is a 55+ continuing care retirement community exclusively for those who share the common bond of service to our country, including officers in the armed forces and civil servants.
Set on 90 acres of protected woodlands, Patriots Colony is a senior living community that strikes the perfect balance of a serene, quiet community complemented by the convenience of city living. Your new neighbors are friendly, devoted former officers and civilian employees of the federal government who share the same life experiences and priorities and always leave rank at the gate.
The recently renovated Canon Community Center, which offers a myriad of dining, social, educational and wellness opportunities.State-of-the-art fitness center and exercise programs. The highest quality medical services you'll find at a retirement community due to our unique relationship with Riverside Health System.Our own on-site medical center.
The recently renovated Canon Community Center, which offers a myriad of dining, social, educational and wellness opportunities.State-of-the-art fitness center and exercise programs. The highest quality medical services you'll find at a retirement community due to our unique relationship with Riverside Health System.Our own on-site medical center.
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VCOC President Installs PACMOAA Officer Slate
The Portsmouth Area Chapter held their first dinner meeting for 2023 on 12 January, Roger Brown's Restaurant and Sports Bar, Portsmouth, Virginia.
During the dinner, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) installed the PACMOAA Officer Slate 2023, also highlighted the VCOC Homepage Frontpage to the Chapter membership.
View Story here: PACMOAA Salute.
Pictured below: Incoming PACMOAA President CAPT Bruce LaLonde, USN (Ret) presents Certificate of Appreciation to VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
Portsmouth Area Chapter (PACMOAA) Celebrates 40th Anniversary
The Portsmouth Area Chapter celebrated the Chapter 40th anniversary with a dinner on April 13th, 2023, Roger Browns Restaurant, Portsmouth, Virginia. Colors were provided by the Churchland High School MCJROTC.
The event focused on most recent Chapter achievements, honored those who were the founders of PACMOAA, and recognized past leaders.
Pictured above: Second Vice President MAJ Sherry Ferki, USA (Ret) and Third Vice President CDR Ken App, USN (Ret) narrate a pictorial history of PACMOAA to the dinner celebration attendees.
Pictured below top: VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) joins PACMOAA President CAPT Bruce LaLonde in presenting the MOAA National Certificate recognozing PAMOAA 40th Anniversary. Below bottom: COL Hal Hostetler, USA (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
Virginia Peninsula Chapter ROTC/JROTC PROGRAM
VIPMOAA is proud to support and mentor the Cadets at our 3 local colleges and those in the 11 JROTC programs at the high schools.
The commissioning of the Cadets at Hampton University took place on Saturday 13 May with Jim Pauls as the VIPMOAA representative. At the commissioning the Senior Cadets receive a 2nd set of Lt bars, a certificate citing welcome into the Officers Corps, along with a free introductory membership in MOAA. This year
cadets Ryan McLaurin, Joseph Somers, NaKhyla Ligonde, Naya Thomas, Jamori Macon, & Jaleh Ames were commissioned.
The commissioning of the Cadets at CNU took place on May 12th with Tom Swanson presenting their 2nd Lt bars. The cadets were Syndey Buckner, Timothy Davis, Keith Martin, Conor O’Grady, Gabrielle Petrone, William Soos, Livia Wood and Nathan Zimmerman.
Lynn Dievendorf, Steve Huebner & Sheri Elston attended the commissioning at W&M on 18 May. The Cadets commissioned were Remy Lee Benner, Sarah Dorrel, Kenneth Doty, Paul Johnson, Katelyn McCormack, Nicholas McCormick, Peter O’Donahue and William Stubner.
Newport News Heritage High School ceremony was on 18 May. The Cadets were sharp and energetic, and the drill team and color guard were exemplary! Tom Shubert presented the Leadership award and a $1000 scholarship to Senior year Cadet LCDR Nikkia Williams who will be attending Old Dominion University to pursue a degree inelectrical engineering. Junior year Cadet Lt Madison Davis received the VIPMOAA Leadership Award along with a $50 gift card. Denbigh High School had their awards program on 18 May. Ron Corson presented Cadet Nico Apple with the Junior Leadership Award and Cadet Elijah Pascual the scholarship award for $1000. Cadet Pascual will attend Norfolk State University.
Southside Chapter Presents Certificates of Acheivement and Scholarship Award at Virginia State University Commissioning Ceremony
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COL Vicoria Revilla, USA (Ret)
MG Mark T. Simerly, Commander of Fort Gregg-Adams and the Combined Arms Support Command (CASCOM), was the guest speaker and administered the oath of office to the six new lieutenants at the Virginia State University commissioning ceremony on May 12, 2023. At the follow-on reception COL Victoria Revilla (US Army-Ret) and Col. Gary Metzinger, (US Air Force-Ret) from the Southside Virginia Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) represented the chapter and presented MOAA certificates of achievement to each of the new officers. COL Revilla then presented a $5,000 check to LTC Forest L. Black, the Professor of Military Science, to support the VSU ROTC Scholarship Fund. The new chapter scholarship will support 5 cadets (each receiving a $1,000 scholarship) during the next academic year. MG Simerly commended the Southside Chapter for the “great things you do in the community and supporting these training programs.”
There are eight high schools with Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs within the Southside Virginia Chapter area of responsibility. A total of $2,600 will be contributed this month to these JROTC programs; the amount allocated is based on their achievements this past academic year. Another $4000 of chapter funds has been set aside for competitive academic scholarships. The Southside Virginia Chapter, MOAA was chartered in June 1971, and it established their scholarship program in 1996. Since then, the chapter has distributed over $300,000 in scholarships to hundreds of students within their community area of support. The chapter has also selected many of their members to be inducted into the Virginia War Memorial’s Walk of Honor and made significant contributions for memorials.
There are eight high schools with Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs within the Southside Virginia Chapter area of responsibility. A total of $2,600 will be contributed this month to these JROTC programs; the amount allocated is based on their achievements this past academic year. Another $4000 of chapter funds has been set aside for competitive academic scholarships. The Southside Virginia Chapter, MOAA was chartered in June 1971, and it established their scholarship program in 1996. Since then, the chapter has distributed over $300,000 in scholarships to hundreds of students within their community area of support. The chapter has also selected many of their members to be inducted into the Virginia War Memorial’s Walk of Honor and made significant contributions for memorials.
Richmond Area Chapter Holds 16th Annual Legislative Affairs Forum
LCDR Wayne Sine, USN (Ret)
On 7 December 2023, RAC-MOAA held its 16th Annual Legislative Forum. The forum was held virtually at 0730 and 1500 to accommodate the busy schedules of Virginia General Assembly members and staff. The forum addressed three key legislative initiatives for the 2024 Virginia General Assembly, as adopted by the Joint Leadership Council (JLC) of twenty-four Veterans Service Organizations in Virginia (including MOAA). Virginia legislators who participated in the forum (either directly or via key staffers) included: Senators Ghazala Hashmi and Ryan McDougle, Delegates (or Delegates Elect) Dan Helmer, David Owen, Lee Ware, Carrie Coyner, Rae Cousins, and Kim Taylor. We are especially grateful to June Laffey, Chief of Staff to Senator Hashmi, for the generous amount of time and interest she expressed during the 0730 session of the forum.
In addition to legislators and members of RAC-MOAA, Monti Zimmerman, Vice-Chair of JLC and 3rd Vice-President of the Virginia Council of Chapters (VCOC) of MOAA participated and provided additional insights into the three JLC legislative initiatives, as well as information on additional veteran related legislative initiatives which may be introduced during the 2024 General Assembly.
The three 2024 JLC Legislative Initiatives are: - Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses to also include Died on Active Duty - Virginia National Guard Tuition Assistance Waiver - Virginia National Guard Enhanced Emergency Response Medical Protection Pictured below: Screen shots of participants from the 0730 (top) and 1500 (bottom) sessions.
On 7 December 2023, RAC-MOAA held its 16th Annual Legislative Forum. The forum was held virtually at 0730 and 1500 to accommodate the busy schedules of Virginia General Assembly members and staff. The forum addressed three key legislative initiatives for the 2024 Virginia General Assembly, as adopted by the Joint Leadership Council (JLC) of twenty-four Veterans Service Organizations in Virginia (including MOAA). Virginia legislators who participated in the forum (either directly or via key staffers) included: Senators Ghazala Hashmi and Ryan McDougle, Delegates (or Delegates Elect) Dan Helmer, David Owen, Lee Ware, Carrie Coyner, Rae Cousins, and Kim Taylor. We are especially grateful to June Laffey, Chief of Staff to Senator Hashmi, for the generous amount of time and interest she expressed during the 0730 session of the forum.
In addition to legislators and members of RAC-MOAA, Monti Zimmerman, Vice-Chair of JLC and 3rd Vice-President of the Virginia Council of Chapters (VCOC) of MOAA participated and provided additional insights into the three JLC legislative initiatives, as well as information on additional veteran related legislative initiatives which may be introduced during the 2024 General Assembly.
The three 2024 JLC Legislative Initiatives are: - Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses to also include Died on Active Duty - Virginia National Guard Tuition Assistance Waiver - Virginia National Guard Enhanced Emergency Response Medical Protection Pictured below: Screen shots of participants from the 0730 (top) and 1500 (bottom) sessions.
MOAA Holds Council & Chapter Leaders Workshop (Mid-Atlantic Region) Workshop
MOAA held the Council & Chapter Leaders Workshop (Mid-Atlantic Region) 2022 Workshop on Friday and Saturday, August 12-13 at the Hilton Raleigh North Hills in Raleigh, North Carolina. Council and Chapter Presidents, Membership Chairs, Legislative Chairs and Surviving Spouse Liaisons from Georgia, Kentuky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tenessese, Virginia, West Virgina and Virtual Chapters attended. The Workshop was hosted by the North Carolina Council of Chapters.
Director, MOAA Council and Chapter Affairs CAPT Frank Michael, USN (Ret) and President, North Carolina Council of Chapters President CW4 Jay Garbus, USA (Ret) provided welcome remarks, followed by the Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. A MOAA senior leader moderated panel followed, which included MOAA General Counsel and Corporate Secretary Maj. Gen. Joe Lynch, USAF (Ret), MOAA Vice President, Council/Chapter and Member Support CAPT Jim Carman, USN (Ret), MOAA Membership and Marketing Vice President Kathy Partain, MOAA Senior Director of Government Relations, CDR Rene Campos, USN (Ret) and Magazine and Creative Director, MOAA Communications Rachel Barth. Question and answer period followed the panel presentation.
Pictured Above : MOAA Vice President, Council/Chapter and Member Support CAPT Jim Carman, USN (Ret), North Carolina Council of Chapters President CW4 Jay Garbus, USA (Ret), Director, MOAA Council and Chapter Affairs CAPT Frank Michael, USN (Ret) and MOAA Director, Membership and Protocol. Lt. Col. Suzanne Walker, USA (Ret).
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Breakout sessions convened on Saturday, 13 August in Chapter Management, Legislative Training and Surviving Spouse Liaison Training (Mrs. Barbara Smith). In follow on, Digital Content Specialist, MOAA Communications Ms. Amber Monks conducted a brief on Social Media. CAPT Jim Carman, USN (Ret) provided closing remarks for the Workshop. Pictured above: CDR Rene Campos, USN (Ret), conducting the Workshop Legislative Affairs breakout session.
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Pictured above, left to right: Falcon's Landing Chapter Legislative Affairs Chair Lt. Col. Jim Mullen, USA (Ret) with wife Jackie, Falcon's Landing Chapter President COL Phil Walsh, USMC (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), Southwest, Virginia Chapter President CAPT Matt Haag, USN (Ret).
Pictured above, left to right: North Carolina Council of Chapters President CW4 Jay Garbus, USA (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
Charlotte-Metraliner Chapter Celebrates 50th Anniversary
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The Charlotte-Metralina Chapter (NC04) of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) celebrated the Metraliner Chapter 50th Anniversay on 6 April, 2023, Carmel Country Club, Charlotte, North Carolina. Representatives from the MOAA South Carolina and Georgia Councils of Chapters joined members of the North Carolina Council of Chapters and Metraliner Chapter at the well attended event. Pictured below: Program welcome letter from Metraliner President MAJ Joe Anderson, USA (Ret).
Metraliner President Anderson, USA (Ret) welcomed Honored Guest Speaker MOAA President and Chief Executive Officer Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret). During his speech, Lt. Gen Kelly highlighted both the history and mission of MOAA, also spotlighting the recent MOAA Advocacy and subsequent passage of the Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, which expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras.
Also in attendance was the Honorable Alma Adams, NC 12th Congressional District and Gen. James F. Amos, USMC (Ret), who served as the 35th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps. Virginia Council of Chapters President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) attended in representation of the Virginia Council of Chapters. Pictured below, top: Attendees, Dinner Hall. Below, bottom: VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) with MOAA President and Chief Executive Officer Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret).
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The Charlotte-Metraliner chapter was started in 1973 by 71 retired military officers and serves the Charlotte Metropolitan area including surrounding counties of North Carolina and the "Upstate" area of South Carolina. In 2014, 2015 and 2016 the chapter received the 5-Star Level of Excellence award from national MOAA, the highest recognition for a chapter. In 2017 the Chapter was awarded a 4-Star Level-of-Excellence Award, a 5-Star Level in 2018, a 4-Star Level in 2019 and another 5-Star Level of Excellence Award for 2020.
VCOC Chapter President Interview Series
A Conversation with the Richmond Chapter President
With this conversation, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Richmond Chapter (RACMOAA) President COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret). He discusses his career in the United States Army as a Special Forces Officer, following with spotlight on RACMOAA activity for 2022, also the value of VCOC membership and legislative advocacy. Click below to listen.
A Conversation with the Falcon's Landing Chapter President
With this conversation, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Falcon's Landing Chapter President Col. Phil Walsh, USMC (Ret). He discusses his career in the United States Marine Corps, following with spotlight on Falcon's Landing Chapter activity for 2022, also the value of VCOC membership and legislative advocacy. Click below to listen.
A Conversation with the Central Virginia Chapter President
With this conversation, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Central Virgina Chapter President CAPT John Warnecke, (USN) Ret. He discusses his career in the United States Navy, following with spotlight on Central Virginia Chapter activity for 2022, also the value of VCOC membership and legislative advocacy. Click below to listen.
A Conversation with the Southwest Virginia Chapter President
With this conversation, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviewsCentral Virgina Chapter President CAPT Matt Haag, (USN) Ret. He discusses his career in the United States Navy, following with spotlight on the Southwest Virginia Chapter activity for 2022, also the value of VCOC membership and legislative advocacy. Click below to listen.
A Conversation with the Portsmouth Virginia Area Chapter President
With this conversation, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Portsmouth Virginia Area Chapter Immediate Past President, COL Bill Smith (USA) Ret. He discusses his career in the United States Army, following with spotlight on the Portsmouth Virginia Chapter activity for 2022, also the value of VCOC membership and legislative advocacy. Click below to listen.
Conversation with the Mt. Vernon Chapter President
With this conversation, VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) interviews Mt. Vernon Chapter President, Col Doug "Smash" Yurovich (USMC) Ret. He discusses his career in the United States Marine Corps, following with spotlight on Mt. Vernon Chapter activity, also the value of VCOC membership and legislative advocacy. Click below to listen.