Page 10 - MarinerSummer22_24

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

Dear Shipmates,

NOW HEAR THIS!!!

We need members to come no longer a sponsor of The Mariner or NERA in general.
forward and nominate yourself In the past, USAA has supported us through their credit
to fill positions on the National card program, the NERA/USAA scholarship fund, and
Executive Council (NEC). providing advertisements for our magazine. I was noti-
These elected positions need fied in the spring that USAA has changed their approach
good candidates, and who bet- to financial giving. USAA’s current mission is “Just as

Steve Sandy ter than you! It is your time to diversifying a financial portfolio makes it stronger,
NERA Past National provide strong leadership for promoting a corporate culture of diversity, equity and
President this great organization. I call inclusion makes USAA stronger and helps us provide
on you today to step forward. exceptional member service and innovative solutions
The time commitment is minimal, everything is virtual or for our members and their families. At USAA, diversity,
on the phone, and NERA needs you. equity and inclusion are essential components of our

We need members to come forward and nominate yourself to fill

positions on the National Executive Council (NEC). These elected

positions need good candidates, and who better than you!

The National Conference is being held this year on business strategy for competitive advantage, continued
October 6th-9th, 2022, outside of Washington DC. Save business growth and improved performance.” USAA did
the date, mark your calendars, and book your hotel room. not deem NERA (a nonprofit military group) part of
If you attended the 2019 conference, it is located in the their “essential components of our business strategy for
same hotel. The meeting space is good, the accommoda- competitive advantage.” Obviously, we are disappointed
tions and rooms are pleasant and the price is right. At USAA is no longer a NERA partner. However, NERA
$89 per night at a nice Courtyard Marriott near DC, this will always continue to fight for you.
hotel space will be perfect. You can walk to the metro and
go sightseeing in DC. The metro stop Dunn Loring is As long as NERA exists, it will never stop promoting
footsteps away, and it only takes about 20 minutes to go and maintaining national security by ensuring a strong
downtown if you want to visit the sites. DC in October is and well-trained Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Corps
perfection-warm days, cool nights, and fall colors every- Reserve by protecting the benefits and privileges Sea
where. I highly encourage everyone to attend and to tell Service Reservists have earned with their military ser-
your friends. NERA would appreciate the support of your vice. NERA’s mission will never change and we thank
attendance. The conference is always a good time of catch- you for being a loyal NERA member and supporter. Our
ing up, hanging out and telling a few stories. members are a devoted, vocal group and we are proud
to serve you.
On another note, I wanted to bring your attention to the
fact that USAA has ended their Affinity Program and is Steve

“The reservist is twice the citizen.” — Winston Churchill

10 The Mariner • 2022 SUMMER Edition • Volume 65 • Issue 2