March 2025 President's Message

Like many retired officers, I am blessed with the time, resources, and desire to travel and partake in an array of cultural offerings. Traveling through New Zealand, I am immersed in so much natural beauty‐‐and bounty. But my contentment was rattled this morning when I read that many of my military brethren living in barracks (who must relinquish their basic allowance for subsistence [BAS]) are being underfed‐‐right here in the US, and close to home in Colorado. Military.com(20 Feb)reported that a recent supper at Ft Carson consisted of no more than lima beans & toast. Only about 10% of dining facilities remain open on Army installations while soldiers must rely on "grab& go" kiosks with pre‐made gas station‐style sandwiches as the only option provided for sustenance. MOAA was founded in 1929 by a group of retired military officers who wanted to give back to those who were still serving. Improving conditions in unaccompanied housing is one of MOAA's key initiatives for Advocacy in Action 2025. Knowing my junior enlisted comrades have their pay skimmed for a "food allowance" and then realizing those monies get diverted to other "non‐ disclosed budget items" makes me angry. Itis unjust. Itis a betrayal of the promises made to the volunteers who stepped forward to defend our country. My passion to fight against injustice and advocate for those less fortunate were prominent themes in my application to serve on the Board of Directors. I stand by my pledge to advocate for these soldiers, as well as each one of you. Some elected officials would think nothing to cut promised and earned benefits to satisfy a perceived political gain. But I cannot fight this alone. Every single MOAA member, and especially the chapter members who know their local representatives, needs to call or write your representative and insist that America keep its promises to those currently serving, veterans, retirees, and surviving spouses of our uniformed service members. The founders of this premier military advocacy organization knew this could happen. We also know it can happen. Speak up now to demand that our leaders honor the contract they made with those of us who volunteered our youth, health, and our very lives, if necessary.       

Never Stop Serving®            

Mary Kay