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.
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.
spotlight on the Council and chapters

The Crier, Chapters and Council in the Spotlight, Sponsors

The Crier

Smash On Station Mt. Vernon Chapter

By Robert Rivera Aeronautics Major at Liberty University. Student Naval Aviator with the U.S. Marine Corps On June 30th, 2023, a pivotal chapter of my life concluded and a brand new chapter began. I successfully completed Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Class Juniors at Officers Candidates School, Quantico.This was a challenging yet eye opening experience that will forever change my perspective on the world around me. My sergeant instructors pushed me above and beyond my limits and introduced me to a new level of discipline I previously thought was unattainable. I will be forever grateful to the Marine Corps for this opportunity to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally. I look forward to returning next year for PLC Seniors for the opportunity to earn my Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, where I would officially join a family whose roots run deep to the very foundation of the country we love.
I would like to personally thank Doug Yurovich, PhD for expending countless hours to prepare me for this milestone, and for the future that is yet to come. I would like to personally thank Doug Yurovich, PhD for expending countless hours to prepare me for this milestone, and for the future that is yet to come.

VCOC President installs Portsmouth Area Chapter at January Meeting 2022 Click below icon to view article

PACMoAA Salute February 2023

Potomac Chapter Installs New Officer Slate

MOAA Vice President Council/Chapter and Member Support CAPT Jim Carman, USN (Ret) installed the incoming Potomac Chapter Officer slate, River Boat Casino, Colonial Beach, Virginia, 16 March 2022. The chapter luncheon also included a presentation by Capt Carman of the MOAA National Brief and an update on the Virginia General Assembly Session 2022 by VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
Above: MOAA Vice President Council/Chapter and Member Support CAPT Jim Carman administering oath of office to incoming Potomac Chapter Board.
Above : MOAA Vice President Council/Chapter and Member Support CAPT Jim Carman, USN (Ret), Chapter President RADM John Sigler, USN (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).

City of Chesapeake holds Thirteenth Annual Mayor's Veterans Breakfast

The City of Chesapeake Mayor's Commissionon Veterans Affairs held the Thirteenth Annual Mayor's Breakfast to honor Veterans on 17 September 2022, Chesapeake Conference Center, Chesapeake. Head Commissioner Zach Williams joined Chesapeake Mayor Rick West in welcoming Lt. Gen. Tony Crutchfield (Ret) as guest speaker. The Chesapeake Civil Air Patrol, United States Air Force, posted the colors, with Boy Scout 55 leading the Pledge of Allegiance, Navy Veteran Mikalena Wojcinski singing the National Anthem and The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band playing the service songs. Commissioner Lincoln Smith served as Master of Ceremonies. Pictured below: City of Chesapeake Mayor's Commission on Veterans Affairs group picture with Lt. Gen. Crutchfield.

VIPMOAA Christmas Luncheon 2022

Carolyn McHale The Virginia Peninsula Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (VIPMOAA) had its Christmas luncheon on December 15th at the Two Rivers Country Club at Governors’ Land. At this annual festive event we present checks to the beneficiaries of our members’ generous donations to our Military Community Support/Scholarship Fund. Pictured above: Our honorees are Gary Sandling representing the Liberty Lounge at Colonial Williamsburg; Lew Mabie representing Old Dominion Honor Flight; Nicole Lancour representing Williamsburg House of Mercy; Jim O’Connell, Treasurer of VIPMOAA; Cadet Lt Col Rachel Sherrod representing the Civil Air Patrol; Jim Pauls, President of VIPMOAA; Ken Miller representing the USO of Hampton Roads & Central Virginia; and Tom Shubert, Liaison to the Civil Air Patrol and VIPMOAA’s Legislative Affairs Chairman. Fisher House at Portsmouth Naval Hospital was unable to attend and will receive their gift at a future date. We also present monetary awards during the year to cadets at the local JROTC high schools and ROTC programs at William & Mary University, Christopher Newport University, and Hampton University. Visit VIPMOAA at http://vipmoaa.org/

MOAA Vice President Council/Chapter and Member Support

Briefs Virginia Council of Chapters at First Quarter Meeting 2023


For the third consecutive year, MOAA Vice President Council/Chapter and Member Support CAPT Jim Carman (Ret) provided a comprehensive MOAA Brief to the VCOC First Quarter Meeting, with question and answer session following. As MOAA's Vice President, Council/Chapter and Member Support, Capt. Jim Carman, USN (Ret), is responsible for planning and executing member support functions to include oversight of MOAA’s 400 geographic and virtual councils, chapters, and satellite affiliates; operation of MOAA’s Member Service Center; planning and execution of MOAA’s career transition support services, finance and benefits education programs, caregiver support program, surviving spouse engagement program, and annual membership events; and works with the General Counsel to support MOAA’s national board of directors. He also conducts career transition and benefits education facilitations and council and chapter visitations in support of MOAA’s advocacy, leadership, education, and service missions. CAPT Carman Commanded two Navy operational units, Patrol Squadron Ten and Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Ten, while serving as a Navy pilot. He was selected to serve two Vice Presidents as a member of the White House Staff He currently leads the Member Support Group at MOAA, the strongest team with whom he has ever served View CAPT Carman's brief to VCOC here: Virginia Council Update: 2022 Pictured below: screenshot of the VCOC First Quarter meeting held on January 19, 2023, 10:00am - 12:00pm, via Zoom Virtual Meeting Platform.

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

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.

Falcon's Landing Chapter hosts VCOC

The Falcon's Landing Chapter hosted VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) and Third Vice President, Legislative Chair COL Monti Zimmerman, USA (Ret), 20 October 2022, Falcon's Landing, Sterling, Virginia. During the visit, CDR Smith and COL Zimmerman attended the Chapter board meeting, followed by a mid day luncheon in the Falcon's Landing dining room. During the board meeting, COL Zimmerman provided an overview of VCOC Legislative Affairs accomplishments for 2022. Upon conclusion of the luncheon, CDR Smith highlighted the VCOC Homepage, with interactive question and answer session following. With over 170 members, the Falcon's Landing Chapter is located with in the Falcon's Landing Commmunity. The Chapter provides multifaceted local support to veterans and their families, to include the Loudoun Veterans and Family Support (LVFS) program, executed in partnership with Community Lutheran Church of Sterling. The Chapter supports the Loudoun County Community Veterans Engagement Board (LCCVEB), purpose of which is to promote a healthy and enriched lifestyle for Loudoun County veterans.
Four times a year the chapter supports the AdoptaPlatoon Soldier Support Effort® dedicated to serving deployed United States Service Men and Women by providing ongoing care packages to improve quality of life and raising morale for those serving overseas in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corp, Coast Guard and Special Forces. The Chapter also supports two Junior ROTC Units: the Air Force JROTC unit at Chantilly High School in Fairfax and the Navy JROTC unit at Loudoun County High School. The Chapter President and director of JROTC Programs present two-four scholarships to cadets at each school. In addition, the Lieutenant General John Pustay Scholarship is awarded to a selected cadet at Chantilly High School. View the Chapter website at: Falcon's Landing. Pictured below, top: COL Zimmerman briefing the chapter board meeting, chaired by Chapter President COL Phil Walsh, USMC (Ret). Below, bottom: Falcon's Landing Chapter President COL Phil Walsh, USMC (Ret) and VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret)

Mount Vernon Chapter Luncheon Features Two Speakers on May 14th

MOAA Director for Currently Serving and Retired Affairs LTC Mark Belinsky, USA (Ret) and Virginia Council of Chapters President CDR Lincoln Smith, USNR (Ret) spoke at the Mt. Vernon Chapter luncheon meeting on Saturday, May 14th at La Fiamma Italian Kitchen, Alexandria. At the luncheon, LTCOL Belinksy provided the MOAA National briefing, with CDR Linc Smith providing highlight of the VCOC Homepage and most recent Council Crier.
Above: Mt. Vernon Chapter Luncheon briefing team, 14 May 2022, MOAA’s Director for Currently Serving and Retired Affairs LTCOL Mark Belinsky, USA (Ret), Mt. Vernon Chapter President COL Smash Yurovich, USMC (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).
Above: LTCOL Mark Belinsky briefing Mt. Vernon Chapter, to include interactive question and answer session.

Richmond Area Chapter Award Drisko Scholarships

Col. Mark Rich, USA (Ret) RACMOAA President The Richmond Area Chapter (RACMOAA) supports Twenty Six area Junior Reserve Officer Training Cadet high school programs. Each school submits a top cadet rising senior to be awarded a MOAA certificate and medal from RACMOAA. Presentations are made at the schools’ military awards ceremony by a RACMOAA member, usually a board member. COVID 19 pandemic restrictions have limited these opportunities, but this year RACMOAA did very well. RACMOAA also awards up to four $1,000 scholarships through our Mel Drisko Leadership scholarship Fund. These awards are highly competitive and are made to graduating seniors planning to become commissioned offciers, who accepted in four-year colleges, universities, service academies, and ROTC programs. This year, RACMOAA awarded two Drisko scholarships. At the RACMOAA May members’ dinner, our chapter highlighted the awardees. One awardee was unable to attend, as his school was holding their military awards ceremony the same evening of our chapter event. Awardee Cadet Ethan Henry was present, along with his parents, his grandparents (grandfather being a retired Army officer and RACMOAA member), and the James River High School Senior JROTC Instructor and his wife. An added bonus was a short presentation by one of last year’s scholarship winners who just finished his first year at VMI. He was introduced by RACMOAA member and Senior JROTC Instructor from the student’s school last year – Benedictine College Preparatory in Richmond.
Below: RACMOAA member LTC Owen Waltman, USA (Ret) presents Cadet Ethan Henry with the Drisko Award.

Richmond Area Chapter Conducts Annual Legislative Affairs Forum

CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret) RACMOAA Legislative Affairs RACMOAA conducted a highly successful 15th Annual Legislative Forum virtually on December 8th in two sessions at 0730 and 1500 for the convenience of elected legislators. Pictured below: Twelve elected legislators and aides (Sens Dunnavant, Hashmi and Reeves and Dels Adams, Carr, Coyner, Fowler, McGuire, Robinson, and Ruff) participated along with DVS staff (Claudia Flores), and chapter members from CVA-MOAA (John Down, Dan Moy), SW-MOAA (John Miller), and RAC-MOAA (Mark Rich, Mariah White, Wayne Sine, Craig Pinsker, Ken Ruppar, Owen Waltman, Mary Lou Wassel). The six proposed legislative initiatives for the 2023 Virginia General Assembly were presented and reviewed with legislators. After the December 15 JLC Quarterly Meeting, attendees will be sent a link to the final prioritized list of initiatives and position papers.

Richmond Area Chapter Hosts Annual Holiday Gala 2022

CAPT Mary Lou Wassel, USN (Ret) RACMOAA hosted the Chapter annual Holiday Gala on 9 December at Meadowbrook Country Club, Richmond. Sixty Six members and guests were in attendance. Pictured above: RACMOAA Chapter President COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret) officiating. VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) attended, providing brief remarks. The Holiday event included a special dinner with piano player and a traditional holiday sing along. Pictured below: CDR Smith with COL Mark Rich and wife Kathy.

Virginia Peninsula Chapter hosts Hampton Mayor

The Virginia Peninsula of the Military Association of America (VIPMOAA) Chapter was honored to host the Mayor of Newport News, Phillip Jones, at our monthly luncheon meeting at the Hampton Yacht Club. Mayor Jones described his background, schooling, military experience as a Marine Corps Officer and election to public office. His vision is for Newport News to become an All-American City, ships, modernizing City Hall processes, and elevating the Newport News narrative on a national level. Pictured above is Mayor Phillip Jones, Newport News, and Chapter President Jim Pauls, presenting him with ‘The King Memorial’ book by Dr. Ed Jackson Jr, Executive Architect for the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial. 

Virginia Council of Chapters Holds Second Quarter Meeting at George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor House

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)
The Portsmouth Area Chapter, an affiliate of the Military Officers Association of America, has served Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Smithfield, Franklin, and surrounding counties, Virginia, since 1983.

Southside Chapter Presents Certificates of Acheivement and Scholarship Award at Virginia State University Commissioning Ceremony

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. The Military Officers Association of America (www.moaa.org) is a national nonprofit organization with 15 chapters in the Commonwealth of Virginia; their mission supports a strong national defense and the legislative advocacy for the rights and benefits of all military, veterans, and their family members.

Sponsors
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

VCOC Presents Certificate of Appreciation to Patriot's Colony

VCOC President Col Boyd Nix, USAF (Ret), and MOAA Vice President Government Relations Col Dan Merry, USAF (Ret) presented VCOC Certificate of Appreciation to Ms. Kathy Kammer in recognition of Patriot's Colony sponsorship of the VCOC, Biennial Luncheon and Awards Ceremony, 5 October 2021, Ford's Colony Country Club, Williamsburg, Virginia.
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.
VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) administered the oath of office to the incoming PACMOAA Officer Slate for 2022-2024 via the virtual Zoom Meeting platform on 13 January 2022.
Sworn in were COL Hal Hostetler, USA (Ret), 1st Vice President/Program Chair, MAJ Steve Watkins, USA, (Ret) Board Member; MAJ Sherry Ferki, USA (Ret), Second Vice President/Membership Chair and CDR Hans Sachse, USN (Ret), Treasurer. Not present, also sworn in, was Ms. Kay Watkins, Board Member.
View spotlight on the January 2022 meeting by PACMOAA Chapter President COL Bill Smith, USA (Ret) at below link: From the President's Desk

Central Virginia Chapter Hosts MOAA National Board Member and VCOC President

Above, Left to Right: Central Virginia Chapter President CAPT John Warnecke, USN (Ret) , MOAA National Board Member LTC Walter Smiley, USA (Ret), CVC Vice President and VCOC Secretary LtCol John Down, USAF (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret)
The Central Virginia Chapter completed its 2021-2022 social season with a luncheon at the Club at Glenmore, Keswick, Virginia, Thursday, 23 June. VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) provided a brief snapshot of recent VCOC activities, followed by MOAA’s Council and Chapters Communications Chair, LTC Walter J. Smiley, Jr., USA (Ret) addressing the Chapter’s members and luncheon guests. Colonel Smiley highlighted MOAA’s new five-year strategic plan, including an update on the work MOAA is doing in each of the focus areas of the plan. MOAA’s six strategic priorities are:Advocacy; Membership; Councils and Chapters; Philanthropy; Engagement; and Resources.
Above: Central Virginia Chapter President CAPT John Warnecke, USN (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret).

Mt. Vernon Chapter Hosts Meet and Greet

The Mt. Vernon Chapter hosted a meet and greet social at Kilroy's Restaurant, Springfield, Virginia, 19 October 2022. The meet and greet was hosted by Mt. Vernon Chapter Immediate Past President CDR George Wallace , USN (Ret). MOAA President and Chief Executive Officer Lt. Gen. Dana Atkins, USAF (Ret) and MOAA Chief Operating Officer Jim O' Brien, USAF (Ret) attended, with Lt. Gen. Atkins providing brief remarks, including spotlight on the MOAA Legislative Advocacy process on Capitol Hill, also challenges and opportunities of the modern day military recruiting environment. VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret) and Third Vice President, Legislative Affairs COL Monti Zimmerman, USA (Ret) also provided a brief informal review of VCOC Legislative Affairs accomplishments for 2022, Federal and State levels. CDR Smith also thanked Lt. Gen. Atkins for his leadership and steadfast support of VCOC. Below, top: MOAA President and Chief Executive Officer Lt. Gen. Dana Atkins, USAF (Ret) and Mt. Vernon Chapter Immediate Past President CDR George Wallace, USN (Ret). Bottom: MOAA Chief Operating Officer Jim O' Brien, USAF (Ret), VCOC President CDR Linc Smith, USNR (Ret), MOAA President and Chief Executive Officer Lt. Gen. Dana Atkins, USAF (Ret).

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).

MOAA Northern Virginia Chapter President Col. Diana Kupchellla, USAF (Ret) and Brig. Gen. Barbara Goodwin, USAF (Ret) featured in the Virginia War Memorial’s 50th anniversary of the Paris Peace Accords ending the Vietnam War.

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).

Falcons Landing Chapter Helps Fund Service Dog for Veteran


When a disabled career combat veteran who suffered from PTSD was in need of assistance, the Falcons Landing (Va.) Chapter was there to help thanks to its local partnership called Loudoun Veterans and Family Support (LVFS). The veteran’s service dog had been killed in a freak accident, causing the veteran and his family to slip backward in their recovery. Agencies that had provided the veteran with the original dog began working to quickly raise the $16,000 needed to purchase and train a new service dog. LVFS support was desperately requested. LVFS responded by donating $10,000, with other groups donating the remaining $6,000. “We were almost immediately able to fully pay for the purchase of the new service dog, its training, its equipment, and the veteran’s training as the dog’s new handler,” said Col. Howard Schue, USAF (Ret), chapter LVFS coordinator. “This speedy process really helped the veteran. Knowing he was quickly getting another service dog really carried him and his family through this time of turmoil, and they are now doing well.” LVFS was started in 2016, a partnership between the Falcons Landing Chapter and Community Lutheran Church in Sterling, Va., to provide immediate support and financial aid to Loudoun County veterans and their families who are suffering immediate hardship or financial difficulties. The chapter raises money — typically between $8,000 and $12,000 a year — to give to LVFS for this assistance through a portion of their dues, donations from chapter members, special events, and grants. Community Lutheran Church also donates from its own resources. According to Schue, veterans and their family members with a financial or other urgent need — such as avoiding eviction, foreclosure, or a cutoff of utility service or an automobile repair — contact Loudon County’s veterans service officer, who then verifies veteran’s status and need. The veterans service officer then emails local veterans service organizations (VSOs), including LVFS, asking who can provide support. The VSOs then pool their resources, and the lead VSO sends a check for the full assistance amount directly to the entity holding the debt for which the veteran has requested assistance. “Our chapter believes this model of support might be valuable for others to implement to assist needy veterans in their local areas,” said Schue.

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.

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).
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.
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

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).
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  RACMOAA President COL Mark Rich, USA (Ret)

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 falcon's landing chapter president  col phil walsh, usmc (Ret)

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 central virginia  Chapter President CAPT John WArnecke, USN (RET)

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 Southwest Virginia Chapter President CAPT MATT HaAG, USN (ret)

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.
A conversation with the portsmouth virginia area Chapter president col bill smith, usa (ret)

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.
A Conversation with the Mt. Vernon Chapter President Col Doug "samsh" Yurovich, USMC (ret
Virginia Council of Chapters
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