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WA
THE NORTHWEST WARRIOR serving the Department of Washington
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Dept. of WA. Pres. LTC Larry Searle; USAR (ret)
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DEPARTMENT OF WASHINGTON Northwest Warrior
Attending the 2013 ROA Leader’s Week was an exceptional experience for me. To be in the nation’s capital is always heartening as one can see directly the energy and enthusiasm brought there in the individuals from throughout the nation. It is a fast paced, high pressure location, for people we trust to manage the laws and policies that govern our very lives.The activities of ROA both in the Minuteman Building and elsewhere in the DC area are myriad. It was obvious that all staff were
professional, efficient and enjoying the challenges of their work. We were treated as royalty by our friend, CAPT (Ret) Marshall Hanson, despite his incredible schedule. His health has improved greatly and it was good to see his wife Debbie and him in good spirits. In short, CAPT (Ret) Rickey Thomas, CDR(Ret) Ed Brock and I were impressed with this trip and owe much to the efforts put forth by MG Davis and team to make it a strong leadership experience for all attendees. Not only were we updated on
the changes in the Constitution and Bylaws, Resolutions, and Legislative actions, but we also received considerable training in meeting with congressional officials. Though our key senators from Washington state were not available our day for visits, the training with Marshall Hanson was very valuable. Rick and I did take advantage of the opportunity to see the newly renovated Capitol building. It was a quick tour and did not include the Senate and House chambers, but was sufficient to get a good idea of the importance of the Capitol to our nation. Also, of importance to me personally was the ROA Academy which has been held annually for some time. It is not only valuable for new members, but is very worthwhile for returning attendees. The selected cadre was well informed and skilled in teaching. I recommend this experience to any motivated ROA member. MG Drew Davis offered opening comments, emphasizing the ROA’s mission of Advocacy for a Strong National Defense.He said the Reserves must remain Ready, Resilient and Reliable. ROA’s role is to work to ensure Reservists are this in reality. Reminding us of the history of ROA beginning in 1922, with the 90th Gala in February 2013, today’s mission is, to support the Reserves and Guard: Reserve Strength – Reserve Life. He elucidated details in those areas in which ROA members should be informed and participate. Of major importance, as Col (Ret) Will Holahan presented, is membership. All are encouraged strongly to obtain new members. If every member were to engage one new member per year, it would have a huge positive impact on ROA. We currently employ the policy to grant the first year of membership free to new members. ** Please note that it is tax time. Remember that the ROA Financial Year is 1 April through 31 March. The Tax Reports are due now for those chapters using that fiscal year. Be sure to view the information provided on the ROA website which gives guidance on IRS Form SS-4 and Form 990-N. If you have not yet established your Chapter EIN, be sure to address it soon. ** The next major ROA National event: August 7-10, 2013 National Security Symposium, Expo & Convention, Wardman Park Marriott, Washington, DC ** All members of the Department of Washington are encouraged to use the full package offered by the ROA National website. The Department and Chapter sites are included and are an interesting read to see that ROA continues to be a vibrant organization with activities throughout the world. ** Best wishes for a rejuvenating and inspiring spring in the United States of America. Larry L. Searle LTC USAR, Retired President,
Department of Washington ROA
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