To the Members of the Naval Enlisted Reserve Association
The Naval Enlisted Reserve Association has a proud history of advocacy on behalf of enlisted reservists. That work matters. It does not end because an organization changes status. Advocacy endures through people, shared purpose, and the ability to carry influence forward.
The Reserve Organization of America exists for that purpose. ROA is the only congressionally chartered reserve association representing all Services and all ranks, with a singular focus on Reserve Component policy, readiness, and benefits. For more than a century, ROA has operated where decisions are made—on Capitol Hill, within the Department of Defense, and across the federal interagency—advancing the interests of reservists who serve and have served.
Enlisted members are not peripheral to that mission. They are essential to it. Effective reserve advocacy fails without enlisted experience, enlisted leadership, and enlisted voice. ROA recognizes that reality and incorporates it directly into its work.
Two leaders who have served both communities understand this deeply.
CWO4 Dale Andersen, USN (Ret), National Councilman Nebraska and Past National Navy Vice President, brings unique perspective as a Life Member of NERA and past chapter president during his enlisted days:
"As a Life Member of NERA and a past president of a chapter during my enlisted days, I can say that the mission statement and goals of both NERA and ROA are on the same page. Both organizations have more in common than not. ROA is chartered by Congress to focus exclusively on all the uniformed Reserve Components, and has a strong voice on Capitol Hill. NERA advocacy can still continue while joining forces with ROA. Your voice lives on. We are the only recognized reserve association whose membership of all branches, all ranks with the focus on reserve matters, period."
CAPT Henry E. Plimack, USCG (Ret), Vice President of the Naval Services Section, shares a similar call to action as a former NERA member:
"Dear NERA shipmates, as a former member of your Association and current Vice President of the Naval Services Section of the Reserve Organization of America (ROA), I would like you to consider joining our team. We represent all Services and all Ranks and are a powerful advocate for the Reserve Components in the Pentagon, the Veterans Administration, and Congress. Located on Capitol Hill, we have over a century of successful advocacy for active and retired Reservists. Visit ROA.org for the past decade of ROA achievements. As we have very similar advocacy goals, we believe you will feel right at home in ROA. Semper Paratus, Semper Fi, and Semper Fortis."
These are not simply endorsements. They represent continuity. Both leaders have walked the path from NERA to ROA and found that the mission remains the same—effective advocacy for those who serve in the Reserve Component.
ROA is currently considering membership options designed to welcome NERA members in a manner that is respectful, deliberate, and consistent with sound governance. The intent is continuity of advocacy, preservation of voice, and consolidation of strength. This is a moment to carry forward what you built, not to leave it behind.
Your experience as enlisted reservists, your commitment to advocacy, and your voice matter. ROA stands ready to ensure they continue to matter where policy is made and decisions are rendered.
Respectfully,
John B. Hashem
Major General, USA (Ret)
Executive Director
Reserve Organization of America (ROA)
ROA-NERA Membership Transfer Form
Learn more about ROA's mission: ROA-NERA Presentation