Ahoy, fellow members and friends!
First I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your support of one of the oldest and finest civilian patriotic organizations STILL in existence today. For over 100 years the Navy League of the United States has actively supported our sea services as encouraged by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1902. The Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and US flagged Merchant Marine all serve our nation with pride and distinction. We truly are a maritime nation, and as such, depend heavily on these important components not only for defense but efficient commerce as well. We can never take for granted the contributions our sea services provide to and for us. Your vigilance in matters nautical are necessary if we are to survive and prosper in a changing and complex world.
Secondly I want to continue our fine work in the membership area. The strength of any organization is its membership. Part of our challenge is to bring in new members - and retain current ones. I know we face an initial misconception about who and what we are simple by the name...Navy League. Many believe this is purely a Navy organization or a veterans association. We know both are not true. Please explain to friends and prospective new members who we are. Better still, invite them to our quarterly dinner meeting to see for themselves. Any of the board members will be glad to assist you in meeting with prospects. Just let us know how we can help you.
As members, I hope you will consider your activity with our chapter. We need members to volunteer for committee and Board assignments. I have noticed several faithful members who regularly attend our dinners who would make excellent committee or board members. Is it your time? Please let me know that you are willing to "stand a watch" for us.
Our youth programs are on a sound footing thanks to stronger communications between your Board and the 2 units we sponsor. The NJROTC unit at Howard High and the Sea Cadet unit of Chattanooga have good, dedicated leaders working hard to give these young people a positive experience that may lead to future service in one of the sea services we support. Certainly the precepts of citizenship, honor, patriotism, and love of country are shared here. You may want to work in this area. What a nice gift you could give these youth. I have found in my years as a boy scoutmaster that I have received far more in quality of life returns by working with youth and adults in this arena than I could ever contribute to them. Perhaps you will, too. Don't be shy to explore this opportunity.
Legislative affairs will always be a major thrust of our efforts. It is, after all, the reason the NLUS was formed in the first place. If we do not exercise our citizenship obligations to speak up for what we believe in then we can never hope to strengthen the influence our sea services need for the good health of our nation. You may have a background or interest in this area which would be very beneficial to all of us. Can you help here?
Lastly, I think you will agree we have had excellent and distinguished speakers for our dinner meetings. A lot of work goes on to schedule these individuals. I have met many top quality people whom I would never have had the chance to meet before. Share this experience with your friends and our membership goals will take care of themselves. Our program committee needs your ideas and service. Will you help here?
My theme is a recurring one. Involve yourself in a quality organization and you will receive the satisfaction of making a positive difference and time well spent in your life I believe the Greater Chattanooga Area/John J. Spittler Chapter of the NLUS is such an organization. Welcome aboard.
Now set the special sea and anchor detail..... We are getting underway for an exciting 2009 deployment.
Respectfully,
Bill Leonard
President
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