Are you a member of the CPOA...Chief?

[CMC Isherwood]

I ask that question based on these facts and figures;
There are 9282 total members in the Chief Petty Officers Association today.
There are 4000 active duty Chiefs in the Coast Guard today.
There are 2402 active duty Chiefs in the Chief Petty Officers Association today.
There are 354 active duty CWO's in the Chief Petty Officers Association today.
There are 74 active duty LTJG's in the Chief Petty Officers Association today.
There are 26 active duty LCDR's in the Chief Petty Officers Association today.
There are 04 active duty CDR's in the Chief Petty Officers Association today.
There are 03 active duty CAPT's in the Chief Petty Officers Association today.

I keep grumbling, "these figures CAN'T be correct", but it appears as though they are facts. As I talk with Chiefs during through out the Coast Guard, I see a lot of interest in the CPOA and some new action occurring. So what's the deal, why the dearth in Membership? While looking into this I have found;
1) Some Chiefs think they are Members, but their dues have lapsed.
2) Some Chiefs have promoted to CWO or LT and dropped their affiliation (Once a Chief always a Chief).
3) Some Chiefs have lost contact due to address changes.
4) Some Chiefs, if you can believe this, were never asked to sign up.
5) Some Chiefs are simply not interested in being involved with the CPOA.

#5 is the one that bothers me the most. Exactly what about the CPOA do you not agree with? Is it the community service performed in the local area? Is it the fund raising events used to support "Toys for Tots", "Scholarship Funds for CG families", "Thanksgiving and Christmas Food drives for our less fortunate Jr personnel", "Disaster Relief" etc..? Is it the camaraderie and networking used to hone leadership skills and professional abilities? Or is it the time investment? As a CHIEF all these things represent to me, the very reason why I became a CHIEF!

If you disagree and are still uninterested in the CPOA, let me know "your" reason why, maybe together we can rectify the situation. And yes I am interested in making it better!! My goal is to unite and strengthen the Chiefs Corp and Chiefs Mess. I am not naive enough to think I can make this happen with out the majority of the Chiefs on board.

As for the first four items, those can be taken care of several ways.
1) Send me an email and I will send you the paper work.
2) Give me a call, I will get you what you need
3) Fill out the attached forms and email, mail or give it back to me, I will do the rest!

Keep these two tenets in mind, "New faces, with fresh Ideas are always welcome" and "No volunteer will ever be turned Away"

If you are interested in joining or reconnecting with the CPOA email and I will take care of the rest.

[BMCM Stuart S. Slesh]

I'm not a member of the CPOA. Let's not confuse the CPOA with the Chief's Mess. I am now and always have been one of the most active and vocal members of any Chief's Mess I have ever attended. The CPOA is a voluntary organization and I have never personally witnessed any of it's benfits. I can be active in community projects, active in the CG community and active in my local Mess without any affiliation to the CPOA. Not every Mess has a CPOA Chapter. Enlighten me as to what I would gain by becoming a Member.

[PAC Darrell Wilson (Ret)]

As a person, I have always tried to help out other people. I do things when no one is looking. I have always been turned off by groups that want to do something good but they want to make sure someone is watching first. I didn't need to get my anchors to start helping people. As a junior member I held toy drives, collected coats and blankets and donated food from my own pantry to various groups. Most of this was done own my own time and I would take my kids so they would learn what was going on. I cant even count how many times I have taken toys and clothes to different abused women's shelters, out of uniform on my own time. All the things you list in number 5, I was doing before I ever made Chief. I am not saying these things about the CPOA, I am just ranting that some of the organizations only want to do these good deeds when all eyes are upon them. I guess I am a little confused. Shouldnt people want to "better " their community regardless of whether your a Chief or not? What does being a member of CPOA have to do with it?

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

5) Some Chiefs are simply not interested in being involved with the CPOA.

#5 is the one that bothers me the most. Exactly what about the CPOA do you not agree with? Is it the community service performed in the local area? Is it the fund raising events used to support "Toys for Tots", "Scholarship Funds for CG families", "Thanksgiving and Christmas Food drives for our less fortunate Jr personnel", "Disaster Relief" etc..? Is it the camaraderie and networking used to hone leadership skills and professional abilities? Or is it the time investment?

None of the above, Kevin.

You have my note with more detailed thoughts, but for the benefit of others (banter and drama seekers), I submit the following.

The CPOA (national) has not kept pace with the growth and changes of it's customer base. It does not move with the speed and voracity expected by today's Chiefs.

For example, take a peek at their web site (http://uscgcpoa.org). Consider the view of the new or upcoming Chief when they view it for the first time. Terms like "anitquated," "old-timers," and "yesterday's news" come to mind. Instant turn-off.

The application process alone sucks a vicious tail wind: Print a .pdf and fax it in? SSN required? Give me a break. It's 2005. Not 1985. This is to say nothing about a complete lack of interesting content or feedback.

Sales/first impressions are everything when trying to build a customer base. Consistency and substance are required to keep them onboard.

My point is this: Numbers don't make the group. Usefulness of the organization, both online and in-house is where the meat is. Chiefs need a central clearing house with the newest tools they can put to work on any given day, for their own benefit or to the benefit of their command and crews, followed by an upbeat forum for information sharing/lessons learned discussions. The CPOA (national) is in the best position to make it happen. Strange they don't go there.

Involved membership is relative to the value offered by the organization. Long term membership won't be gained until national lets go of deadwood and old routines. At the very least, they need a full time salesma... person at the helm.

Luckily - as you know - there are some ass kicking chapters out there who are great at promoting a cohesive Chiefs group for lack of a local Mess. Kudos to them. It is hard not to notice the success of those chapters isn't in number of members, but the results of follow through with their own active agenda. Keyword: active. They are masters at keeping things fresh.

Sector LA-LB is a good example. It's simple: New members are invited to a meeting without fanfare; without pressure to complete an application or start dues. A few meetings pass. The new blood is targeted to play on a project. Buy in begins. Membership kicks in when they see value and results of their efforts.... and the efforts of the chapter.

Today's Chiefs would do well to look to their local chapter first. Keep your wallet in your pocket for now. Sample a meeting. Smell the agenda. Choose a project or action you would find satisfying and a healthy distraction from your routine. Step out for one day and sample it.

If you enjoyed it - cool. Next time, own it.

[MKC Tony Balcer]

Stuart,
Forgive me if I sound like a smart ass for a moment. I have been raised in the CG thinking that, yes they were different but they had a symbiotic relationship. You can’t have one without the other, kind of thing. I know that I could be a chief and not belong. But why the hell would I want to do that? I could also be a Chief and not go through the CCTI. Again, why? Would I really be a Chief? Some would say no. That’s kind of the way I feel about the CPOA. I am a member, I was charged with joining by MKCM Winter when I was going through my CCTI. It’s so easy to do a direct deposit that never expires. The CPOA costs so little, to be a part of something that is bigger than any one member, much like the Mess. But, unfortunately I am in an area where I also don’t see the rewards. So why the hell would I go and do it? Because. I have faith in my fellow Chiefs, to carry on where I can not. If I ever get to an area that has a chapter I will do what I can. If I were ever asked to start a chapter, I would also do what I could. I think it’s a part of answering the call of the Chief. IMHO
Having said that, I would ask you. Do you still object to joining?

[BMCM Stuart S. Slesh]

Tony, I am be slow in the reading comprehension part, but I don't see where you were being a smart ass in what you said. I don't object to becoming a member, but I still don't understand the need. I still don't know what purpose it serves. And the Mess and the CPOA are not linked. They are two separate entities by design. The Mess is allowed to set aside a small fraction of the Chief's Call to solicit for membership. They aren't suppose to conduct CPOA buisiness during the Chief's Call. The CPOA meetings are held seperately. It is a voluntary organization. The CPOA doesn't conduct CG business. You don't have to be a card carrying member to attend a meeting. You don't have to be a member to participate in their functions. It is not like going through the CCTI. The CCTI initiates people into the Mess. If you don't go through the CCTI you have to leave the Mess anytime "real" Chiefs talk about CCTI matters.
I don't object to becoming a member. That needed to be said again. I do object to people saying that you need to join in order to be a Chief. It's not a function of the CG. It's not a function of being a Chief. Being a member of the Mess is. You don't have to go through the CCTI to become a Chief. It's not a requirement to advance. It's also is a voluntary issue. You do have to go through the CCTI in order to take part in all aspects of the Mess. You do need to go through it in order to become a Chief "inside" the Chief's Mess. The CPOA can "claim" the same thing. One of them is endorsed by the COMDT, the MCPOCG, and every Chief' Mess in the CG.........one of them is not.

[CMC Isherwood]

There is no confusion for me between the Chiefs Mess and the CPOA. To me they form a symbiotic relationship. If you look at areas where the two are collocated you will find the same Chiefs heavily involved in both and one would not be successful without the other. Are there anomalies? Absolutely, but that’s the exception not the rule.

What follows, is purely my personal viewpoint due to that lack of formal CG policy or guidance.
Chiefs Mess
· Run by Senior most Chief in the AOR
· Mandatory Involvement and should be punitive if you shirk your obligations to the Mess.
· Manages CG missions (Day to Day business)
· CG Sponsored Community Service Projects (First Book, PIE etc..)
· Trains up and down the CG chain
· CG is unsuccessful with out a strong engaged Chiefs Mess
· United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Charge
(Not sure how to attach the doc)
CPOA
· Run by a duly elected President of Chapter
· Totally Voluntary Involvement
· Manages missions that the CG cannot “technically” support (Toys for Tots, Christmas and Thanksgiving Food Drives, Disaster Relief Funds, Lobbying efforts)
· Fund Raising
· Non CG Sponsored Community Service Projects (Adopt-a-Road, Special Olympics etc..)
· CPOA is unsuccessful with out a strong engaged Chiefs Mess
· United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association Preamble (again not sure how to attach the doc)
Another way to look at the difference between the two, if funds are involved, it’s the CPOA.

Now to the rebuttals. Hopefully I capture the gist of the last three posts. Remember no matter which tact a person takes another person can shoot holes in the logic if they so desire. That being said, as a member of the USCGCPOA you gain;
· Title 14 (vise 10) Lobbying representation via the CPOA National Executive Director regarding legislation that will affect our members.
· Automobile Insurance discounts through Government Employees Insurance CO. - GEICO.
· A comprehensive insurance program that includes: TRICARE/MEDICARE supplements, cancer, life, auto, homeowners, renters, dental, term life, etc.
· Access to The Captain Caliendo College Assistance Fund (CCCAF) to help your family members with college costs
· A magazine, “THE CHIEF”, to keep you informed on what other Chapters and Chiefs are doing through out the CG.

Whoopiti! Whoopiti! right? And I agree, I can get that elsewhere too. However, the CPOA is service centric. You are not just an anonymous number in a huge bureaucratic system, it’s more personal than that.

For many years I have asked myself some of the same questions raised by the previous posters. As the Preamble and Purpose reads, there is no intent for the CPOA to be in the spotlight. Their objective is to do good things for the community and those in need, Period!. An added benefit of the CPOA would be the camaraderie and fellowship fostered during the events and a means for like-minded do gooders to organize their efforts.

For me (right or wrong), I feel being a member of the CPOA is one of the minimum expectations that our CG members have of the Chief Petty Officer Corps. As a leader and a member of the CPOA it is my quest to publicly present a united front, not tarnish the positive perception that outsiders have regarding the CPOA, and to be a of Chief of Action at all times for others to aspire to emulate.

[CMC Isherwood]

Stuart,
You are drifting from the topic; CCTI is a totally different animal. As you can imagine I have strong opinions regarding that subject too.

Show me the difference between an initiated Chief and an uninitiated Chief. It certainly is not found in Direct Access. I have said this a 1000 times, "CCTI does not make you a "real" Chief, conducting yourself as a Chief, makes you a CHIEF".

During my time as a Chief, I have participated in the initiation of 100's of Chief Petty Officers. Of those 100's of Chiefs, less than 30% remain engaged in the Chiefs Mess today. More often than not the PCPO was simply filling the square so that they could say that they had been initiated.

What keeps me coming back is the 30% that GET IT. They understand that a strong and united Chiefs Mess can and will make a difference.

Now back to the topic at hand, "Why do AD Chiefs choose not to be members of the CPOA?"

The reason I asked the question... I am the National CPOA Membership Chair and I am trying to assess the situation. You cannot improve something with out first figuring out what's wrong with it. My hopes are that I receive honest feedback with suggested solutions that can be incorporated into the CPOA's message.

As you know, there is no silver bullet that would satisfy every question that someone had if they truly did not want to join the CPOA. Just trying to address real or perceived obstacles preventing today's Chiefs from joining the CPOA ranks.

[MSTCM C Stevenson]

"CCTI does not make you a "real" Chief, conducting yourself as a Chief, makes you a CHIEF".

All together now: "Amen."

[MSTCS Jerald P. Motyka]

Now back to the topic at hand, "Why do AD Chiefs choose not to be members of the CPOA?"

The reason I asked the question... I am the National CPOA Membership Chair and I am trying to assess the situation. You cannot improve something with out first figuring out what's wrong with it. My hopes are that I receive honest feedback with suggested solutions that can be incorporated into the CPOA's message.

Master Chief,
I think Senior Chief Slesh's questions answer perfectly what the "problem" is.

What the heck DOES the CPOA do? When have they ever visibly done anything outside of some media events done by some Messes? There are very, VERY few people that can answer those questions. To the masses, it seems like just another club to join - like the CG Vets association. Woo hoo... another membership card and dues to pay.

Sure, there are a couple people that jump on the soap-box and say that the CPOA lobbies for stuff - but when has the word come out to say that they actually accomplished something? The only thing I hear out here is that the FLEET RESERVE and the Navy CPOA lobbied successfully for this or that. Even in the CPOA magazine, all I hear about is that the NAVY groups lobbied...

That being said, I am a member, and have been a member since the month after I got my crows (CGEA), then 'fleeting up' to the CPOA when I got my anchors. I guess that it is in the hope that they DO something, and is probably a hold-over from my days in the Army with the AUSA and NCOA that tooted their horns frequently with their accomplishments.

I guess Senior Chief Slesh's main question is what you need to deal with first: How will membership benefit ME?

[BMCM Stuart S. Slesh]

Just to set the record straight....I wasn't drifting off course.....I was blown off course. I was responding to Tony's post. I understand where you are coming from but as Jerald said, nobody is bringing this thing home for me. And it's not that I don't see the benifits to me.....it's that I haven't seen the benifits to anyone. But everyone can relax.........I'm coming on board. When Deane gets in on the west coast today he will be sending me my enrollment form. He assures me that there is great benifit in what the CPOA is doing. He has never steered me wrong before and it is something that he is also passionate about. He agrees that where there is a strong CPOA, there is a strong Chief's Mess. I will yield to someone I know is wiser than me.
If you're looking for ways to increase CPOA membership, have people like Deane talk to them. Have the people that are member start talking more about the benefits to they people that they know and trust. Don't "charge" people to become members, because it then comes off as a money making scheme, and they stop paying those dues. Actually take the time to explain the purpose and direction that the CPOA wants to go and get people who "want" to join. Believe me, if I actually ever saw any of the benifits I would be telling everybody about it.

[BMCS Burt Ford]

Master Chief Isherwood, welcome to the board!

Now I would like to share something. Of my 18 plus years, 5 as a BMC, i am in my 5th year that I can participate in either a Chief's Call ir CPOA function. I am a member of the CPOA and have been since making Chief but I have never been to a meeting. While in Baltimore I was never asked to join the local chapter or invited to any Chiefs Call except when preparing for CCTI. Why, because I was a District unit. Same thing here in Kodiak. I attend the ISC Chiefs call mostly so I can be around other chiefs. They discuss ISC business and I sip coffee. Much of the CG is this way. How many units are not co-located with a mess? Small Boat Station, Small Cutters and MSD's. My last unit we had 3 chiefs, OINC, XPO and EPO. we discussed unit matters so I guess it was a mess. The only time I heard from any mess was for the CCTI. SO maybe we can look into how many Chiefs are some where they can participate in either. Deane is going to a unit where he will be a group unit but hours driving time to attend any meetings. Not sure how many other chiefs he will have but my guess is one. Not trying to make excuses just pointing out some things!!

[BMCM Deane Smith]

I'm a member of the CPOA, have been since I made Chief. I'm also the President of my local CPOA chapter. I'm not sure how to explain why I'm a member of the CPOA. I guess I just feel that I want to be a complete Chief and the CPOA is part of that. Everyone needs to remember that the CPOA (or any volunteer organization) is only as good as the people that show up and do what's required to be effective. It's like Dennis and the CCTI...you shouldn't talk about it until you have been through it. The cost is negligible, it's $24 for a year. Try it out and then comment...after you've experienced it.

Burt - I'll be 2 hours from the nearest CPOA chapter and I plan to attend meetings, when operations allow it.

Stu - Thanks for joining. You'll have to come to the convention in Indianapolis next year, they would love you there!

I agree with Kevin...I don't get why someone wouldn't want to member of the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association. I don't get it.

I've attached below the purpose of the CPOA for those that don't know...or for those that might have forgotten.

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Purpose Of The Chief Petty Officers Association

The United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association is unique among service organizations in that it was created by the Chiefs, of the Chiefs, and for the Chiefs of the United States Coast Guard.

Ever mindful of:

· the traditions, duties and purpose of the United States Coast guard,

· our duty to uphold and defend the constitution on the United States of America,

· our responsibility to assist and save distressed seamen and others,

· our responsibility in the enforcement of the laws of our Country, and

in believing that through association and mutual acquaintance, the Chief Petty Officers of the United States Coast Guard may:

· best advance their professional abilities,

· enhance their value, loyalty and devotion to God, Country and service in which they serve,

· promote its unity and morale domestically and militarily through responsible leadership,

· assist members and dependents in urgent need of assistance,

· assist in recruiting for the Coast Guard,

· support the aims and goals of the CPO Academy,

· assemble for social amenities,

· become involved in community affairs,

· promote social programs for those in need,

· keep informed of Coast Guard matters.

What We Do As An Organization

At the National level, our Executive Director represents the interests of all Coast Guard Enlisted personnel on various committees and councils on military affairs in Washington, DC, and provides information to the membership on what is happening. Chiefs elected to National Office stay in contact with Headquarters to keep them informed on our ideas and opinions, and are responsible for administering policy of the CPOA.

At the Chapter level, Chiefs assist local commands with various seminars, help CG families assimilate into the local community by providing information about stores, schools, churches, etc., and help dependents of members away from their families feel welcome and part of the Coast Guard family. Arrange CG Day picnics, children's Christmas parties, Thanksgiving and Easter Day activities and other social events, and provide assistance to the local community in organized sports, clean-ups, neighborhood crime watches, Scout organizations, etc. CPOA members take part in nationally organized assistance programs such as the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon and Special Olympics.

What The CPOA Has To Offer

· A comprehensive insurance program which include: TRICARE/MEDICARE supplements, cancer, life, auto, homeowners, renters, dental, term life, etc.

· Automobile Insurance discounts through Government Employees Insurance Co. - GEICO.

· The Captain Caliendo College Assistance Fund (CCCAF) to help enlisted family members with college costs.

· A magazine, "THE CHIEF", to keep you informed on what other Chiefs are doing and provide a forum for presenting ideas.

· Over fifty Chapters established in the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii. Sharing with other Chiefs, through association and mutual acquaintance, our professional abilities, loyalty, and devotion to God, country and service, and promote unity and morale through responsible leadership.

· Affiliation with and sponsorship of the CPOA Auxiliary for family members, and the Coast Guard Enlisted Association-CGEA-for Coast Guard members in pay grades E-6 and below.

· Representation with other military and fraternal organizations through the National Executive Director which allows us to stay abreast of legislation that will affect our members. The ED is a member of The Military Coalition and the Council of Military Organizations (COMO).

· Join an exclusive fraternity of Chief Petty Officers: The United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association.

[BMC Mark C. Lewis]

I have seen this excuse on several threads not just this one, the nearest Chief's Mess or CPOA is quite a drive. I live on an island that as ferry service no bridge. I have made all but one Chief's call and that one was miss because of a RFO outbrief and I make most of the CPOA meetings.

If you want to be there you will be there.

[CMC Isherwood]

I too grow tired of the lack of participation excuses for the myriad of reasons that I have heard through out my career. If it is important to you, you will make the time, period! That goes for Chiefs Call, CPOA meetings, CCTI, soccer games, beach clean ups etc...

It is true, at your particular location during this specific tour there may not be a Mess or Chapter. Most likely though, that will change some time during your career. So why not get onboard now?

As the CPOA Preamble and Purpose infers in Dean's post, Participation comes in many forms. Although you may not be able to attend a meeting in your area, your financial contribution can make a difference for another Chapter or community service project. Two bucks a month is a small price to pay.

Heck, I'm a member (financially supportive only) of the American Legion, FRA, RAFA, NCOA and the RMEF. I have personally chosen to invest my physical energy as well as financial support toward the CPOA. Just looking for some fellow Chiefs to join an organization, by the Chiefs for the Chiefs.

I am not so naive to think that the CPOA is with out faults. From some of the previous posts and from my own experiences I recognize change is needed. I guess what I am saying is I am willing to work very hard to change the negatives into positives, but I cannot do it alone.

Thus far I have appreciated the dialogue and have taken note of the comments and concerns. Together we can/will make a difference.

[PACS Steve Carleton]

I am a member of the CPOA and a Chapter President. I certainly cannot be accused of not participating

In my observations and interactions with various people about why they are not members I tend to run into a common theme...WIIFM

What's In It For Me

What is lacking is a sense that people are not getting their money's worth from the organization as a whole. Master Chief Isherwood and Senior Chief Smith both mentioned the "sales pitch" items -- The lobbying Congress, the magazine, the insurance, etc. But what people are asking, and rightfully so is;

What specifically is the CPOA through the Military Coalition doing, what specific legislation is being debated that impacts me?

What are the goals of the organization?

Have you communicated them to the membership?

The monthly publications of he FRA, the NCOA and various other organizations give me overviews of legislation that is important to me. Our magazine? Nope.

I think that many people see through the BS and ask what's the point? Why devote my money (I know $24.00 is not a heavy lift) time and energy to an organization that cannot tell what they are doing for me?

I think we need to approch this from a recruiting and retention position that we would use in the CG. If you want people to come in the door or stay, you have to provide them with tangible benefits. Those benefits differ from person-to-person, but we need to survey, identify, startegize and execute. If we don't we will be asking this very same question next year and the year after, and so on and so on.

Are there chapters out there who are doing great things? Absolutely
Are there Community Service Events that we participate in? Absolutely
Is there camraderie and fellowship with my fellow Chiefs, both Active and Retired? Absolutely.

One thing to remember is that people can get those things from a variety of other sources, church, other fraternal organizations, neighborhood associations, scouting, sports coaching, etc.

We are not the only game in town when it comes to providing community service, camraderie, etc. If we want to continue to exist, we need to seriously overhaul ourselves as an organization.

If we cannot get the senior most enlisted person in our service to show up at National Convention, there is a serious problem, a problem that needs correcting.

[Standing by to recieve sharp objects being trown in my direction]

[CMC Isherwood]

Never will a sharp object be thrown by me in the direction of honest feedback! I agree with you regarding, "not the only game in town". However, we are the only USCG Chief Petty Officer game in town.

You are correct that National does a poor, no make that an extremely poor job of informing our Membership of legilative issue or overarching concerns through out the Association.

PURPOSE (you can call these goals)
The United States Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association is unique among service organizations in that it was created by the Chiefs, of the Chiefs, and for the Chiefs of the United States Coast Guard. The purposes for which this Association was formed are to take care of Coast Guard Members and their dependents who may be in urgent need of assistance, financial or otherwise; to assist in recruiting for the United States Coast Guard; support the aims and goals of the Chief Petty Officers Academy; To assemble for social functions; become involved in community affairs; promote social programs for those in need; and keep informed on United States Coast Guard matters; whereby we may continue to serve in loyalty to the Nation and the United States Coast Guard. These, together with the Preamble to this list of Standing Rules, define the purpose of the Chief Petty Officer’s Association.

I know there are disparities in Chapter organization and involvement through out the CG, I am pretty sure it is not intential. The CPOA has National By-Laws and an OPS manual that each Chapter is to use as there guiding principals ( http://www.uscgcpoa.org/4-all_hands/4-all_hands_index.htm ). Unfortunately in some areas personalities take over and the Chapters may drift from the main stream. Those too, are things that I would like to hear about. I am interested in making things better for everyone.

I am always available to discuss this with anyone, as my writing skills do not always properly convey my point.

[PACS Steve Carleton]

Master Chief,

Every one of the items listed in the Purpose of the CPOA should have a standing committee to oversee th program that meets with the internal influencers, for example: Recruiting, why do we not have a standing committee in the Association that has regular meetings and sessions with the leaders of the Recruiting Command to offer our resources?

Why do we not have a system of providing items of need to the CG Units and their Families such as an Evergreen Fund like the Foundation does -- The sad part is most Coasties will be able to tell you that they know the Foundation because of the phone cards they get every year at Christmas, what do we, the association, do for our people?

[CMC Isherwood]

Come on, you have never heard of the Thanksgiving and Christmas food drives for our less fortunate members sponsored and delivered by the CPOA? Some Chapters donate grocery store coupons, others hand out T-day or Xmas Dinner gift certificates.

How about when someones family member is ill, or their child's soccer team needs cash, or when Station X burns to the ground you have not heard the CPOA has been there?

Then there is the retired Chief who is unable to maintain their home, the CPOA stepped in. These are quick examples just off the top of my head.

As for recruiting, we actually do have a standing committee, but it's the Membership Committee. Note that this is a totally voluntary, unfunded function.

National Standing Committees
(1) Membership Committee - The duty of this Committee is to devise ways and means of increasing membership and promote the purpose and goals of the Association.
(2) By-laws Committee - The duty of this Committee shall be to study and review the existing By-laws and submit their recommendations to the National Officers and BOD.
(3) Budget Committee - The duty of this Committee shall be to review the Association Budget and consider requests for funds, after which the Budget will be recommended to the BOD for adoption. A list of request that cannot be funded, shall be maintained on a priority list and be funded if monies become available.
(4) Long Range Planning Committee - The duty of the Committee shall be to study and recommend long range projects for the betterment of the Association. Member's shall be, but are not limited to, Past National Presidents. They will be realistic in the needs and growth of the Association, and shall set tentative dates for accomplishments of their recommended projects.
(5) Captain Caliendo College Assistance Fund Committee (CCCAF) - The duty of the CCCAF Committee shall be to administer the program. (The criteria for qualification and eligibility are printed on the Standard CCCAF Application Form.)
(a) The National President shall appoint a CCCAF Committee at each Annual Convention to review and recommend necessary changes to the program and to designate the annual essay topic.
(b) The committee shall judge all essays received and select the winners of the scholarship grants.
(c) The chairman will notify the National President of the final standings.
(6) Resolution and Steering Committee. - The duty of this committee shall be to receive and review all resolutions submitted 120 days prior to the Annual Convention. The committee shall ensure that the resolutions are in order in accordance with the By-Laws and return those that are not in order to the originator with an explanation as to why they are being returned. Those resolutions that are in order shall be sent to the National Office in a timely fashion to be published in the issue of THE CHIEF immediately prior to the Annual Convention for review by the membership.

Convention Committees
(1) Membership Committee - The duty of this committee shall be to review, study and recommend methods to increase membership and improve retention in the CPOA. They shall work closely with the Executive Director in attaining these goals.
(2) Budget Committee - The Budget Committee shall prepare and present to the BOD at the Annual Convention the Association budget for the ensuing calendar year. A list of committee requests that cannot be approved due to lack of funds shall be recorded and maintained on a priority basis and reconsidered, as funds become available.
(3) Legislative and Retired Affairs Committee - The duty of this committee shall be to review all legislative and retired affairs matters which may affect the Association membership.
(a) They shall be informed on benefits of the Veterans Administration, Retired Affairs, Comptroller General Decisions, Civil Service, Health, Education and Welfare and United States Coast Guard Policies.
(b) They shall, through the Executive Director, coordinate matters of mutual interest among the members of the Armed Services of the United States and work in cooperation with other military alliances.
(4) Community Activities Committee – The duty of this committee shall be to review the various methods by which Chapters may best serve their communities in matters of civic and community affairs, Americanism, citizenship, and continue to foster the principles of the founding fathers as expressed in the Constitution of the United States of America.
(5) CPO Academy Committee - The duty of this committee shall be to work with the Chief of the CPO Academy, the MCPO-CG, and the Office of Personnel and Training Office at Coast Guard Headquarters, to further the aims and goals of the CPO Academy. The Committee Chairman shall be a graduate of the CPO Academy.
(6) Special Projects Committee - This committee shall be responsible for coordinating and listing for distribution to the Chapters, all available special project items. They shall investigate various private and public business enterprises, which offer benefits to the members. They shall review all Chapter, Auxiliary Unit, and Branch fund raising projects, to ensure that there is no duplication on a national basis. They shall submit their recommendations to the National Officers, who shall render a decision and inform the Committee, Chapter, Unit, or Branch.
(7) Long Range Planning Committee – This committee shall review, study and recommend long-range projects for the betterment of the Association.
(8) Captain Caliendo College Assistance Fund Committee – This committee shall review the CCCAF policies, review the amounts of scholarship, and select the topic for the yearly program. Award amounts and number of grants shall not be changed until fund become self-sufficient. When fund becomes self-sufficient, awards and grants may be increased but shall not exceed the past year’s interest.
(9) CPOAA and CGEA Review Committee - This committee shall review the policies of these organizations and recommend changes to improve their operation.

[MSTCS Jerald P. Motyka]

Master Chief,
While I do not doubt that the CPOA has been there - WHO KNEW??

When the good samaritan does his good deeds and then runs away, nobody knows other than the injured party. This does the samaritan's organization no good!

When the CPOA pats a kid on the head, there should be a committee tooting every horn available! Letters to the Coast Guard magazine, letters to the local papers, press briefs to districts and Sector HQs... the whole she-bang. This almost gets philosophical... if an organization does good and nobody knows, did they really do any good?

A paragraph-long article in the Chief's magazine is a note to an insulated and isolated audience. You guys need to be telling everybody ELSE in the world!! This is why Senior Chief Slesh can go through an entire career and not know either what the CPOA does or how it could benefit him. I wanted to add myself there as well, but Senior has been in much longer than I... and illustrates the issue better.

Don't tell US what you do, tell THEM!!

[AETCS Doug Hansen]

As the past President of the Elizabeth City Chapter, I was faced many unique challenges. 500 members, a building, a few who stood out to help keep things afloat, and CPOA bashers! The biggest challenge was WIIFM? What's in it for me... At the same time there were those that joined for the magazine and knew that somewhere in DC...someone was standing up for them. It is a double edge sword we draw .. lack of monetary funds and people support means lack of income and lack of representation where we need it. Further, it cuts into the many benefits you do receive. Do you know the discount you receive from Geico in many cases more than pays for your membership? Do you know that simply getting involved or attending one convention will increase your networking ability across the United States, open avenues toward your daily job, and perhaps even future opportunities when you plan to retire. Do you have a high school age dependent that may be looking for a $5000 scholarship? It is not a retiree organization!! It is YOUR organization that as a Chief YOU need to support so it can look out today for YOUR future and retirement interests tomorrow.

Far too often people spend more time questioning something and throwing stones than being the Chief. We have enough E-6 and below for that. A Chief is someone who makes a difference in peoples lives whether it be at work or outside in the community! A Chief is a person who is willing to go the extra mile to effect change. Be part of the solution! and not part of the problem. Spend more time on providing monetary support, input, and ideas to YOUR organization instead of "Excuses".... Too often there are people that wear the anchor, hang up thier hat up at 4PM M-F, point fingers, ask WIIFM? when asked to do something, and leave others to tow the load.

The CPOA is the "brotherhood" of Coast Guard Chiefs formed under an Association. It is best represented and operated with Active duty involvement. If you feel it is beneath you to contribute time and/or money to YOUR brotherhood... that with it's limited resources due to lack of funding and Chief's being involved ... struggle to look out for YOUR future and all you can offer are stones? Then perhaps you should re-evaluate YOUR commitment to supporting your fellow Chiefs. As I learned it in CCTI... Every person who is not committed to supporting other Chiefs and their efforts are in reality ... "A Weak Link in the Chain". The chain has to remain strong to keep representation, authority, and traditions intact. Doesn't come any clearer than that...

[BMCS Dennis Endicott ret]

Doug-

I belong to the CPOA (at large) and attend meetings when it doesn't involve an overnight stay. But, my participation in the CPOA does not define my willingness to lead, help, or otherwise be a good chief. Being part of the Chief's Mess does that. The only advantage that I see in the CPOA is an ability to collect and disperse money, and to allow active duty and retirees to interact. It's not a bad organization, but it is nowhere near as important to me as it appears to be to you.

And, what's wrong with asking "What's in it for me?" If we can't answer that question to our junior people long before they have to make the decision to join, then there is really no point in having such an organization.

[BMCS Dennis Endicott ret]

By the way- this is a great debate.

Thanks for joining the board, CMC Isherwood.

[CMC Isherwood]

The CPOA cannot win in this forum, if we advertise what we do, the CPOA is chastised and looked at as "glory hounds" with ulterior motives. If the CPOA does not get the word out, we are looked at as a do nothing good ole boy club.

Here goes, what follows is the efforts of one Chapter.
The Hawaiian Islands Chapter of the CPOA
KATRINA Hurricane Relief Fund
Individual Donations
$4846.00
CPOA Softball Tournament
$3015.00
Texas Hold'em Tournament
$500.00
Total donated to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance in support of CG Family Relief
$8363.00

Here is a snap shot of a CPOA contribution data call that I did for the MCPOCG. Due to the short fuse of my request we do not have all chapters reported, but you will find a good cross section.
Basically 21 Chapters reported that they donated $113,050.00 and expended 23,400 Mhrs. There were some variations/inaccuracies due to incomplete data, however the general gist was captured.

This should bolster the CPOA's stature in the CG community and really hammer home the fact, "The CPOA is getting the JOB done!!!"

[BMC Ken Gouge]

I am a member, at large. Since makin Chief I haven't been stationed anywhere that was within a few hours drive of a "local" chapter. The CPOA still gets my dues by allotment to do with as they wish.

Our Cutter collected donations from the crew, and donated a good portion of our mess account to the cause, as well as a few of us who made personal donations on the side. All this was done without the CPOA...

I am not against the CPOA. I am for a strong Mess. I think participation in the latter should far outweigh participation in the former. I don't think a Chief should need to decide between the two, but if necessary the mess should come first.

[SKCM Linda Reid]

Boy, Kevin - does this discussion underline our need for a better Public Affairs program or what?? One of our organization's shortcomings has been our reluctance/inability to tell our own story!

Purposes ... don't forget to add leadership opportunities at the chapter level. I have seen Chiefs in our building come out of their shell (or cube) and blossom into contributing leaders after being elected to a chapter position. It all benefits the Coast Guard in turn.

One of the saddest things that happened at the most recent convention was doing away with the Legislative and Retired Affairs committee as a standing committee. Unfortunately we have not had a volunteer in recent years willing to track legislation and inform the membership on what's important. Yes, our Executive Director attends the Military Coalition meetings and participates in some of the committees. But with the many duties he has running the organization, I know he cannot devote a lot of time to this. The whole legislative issues area is a distinct gap in our magazine.

The CPOA can only be as strong as the members who are participating!

Linda Reid
Member - Washington DC Chapter (2005 Chapter of the Year)

[ETC John D Zidek]

I am not a member of the CPOA local or at large yet. I went to my first CPOA Meeting Yesterday here at Yorktown. I now have a better idea of what the CPOA does and I would be a member now IF:

There was an easier way to sign up. How hard would it be to create an online membership application? Leap into the 21st century. They make it so easy to get that allotment started in Direct Access, but now what? Oh I have to print out the form and mail it with a copy of the allotment form??? I don't have a copy of the online form. Do I print my PC Screen and send a copy of that?

So I guess I don't know if I am a member or not, but my allotment will start Jan 2007.

Before I start getting advice and guidance...I am already talking to my local members for assistance.


I really don't like personal attacks and I try carefully not to word things to sound like a personal attack, but every time I type this it sounds that way. I have to do it anyway. If you feel like I am attacking you, I apologize in advance.

It doesn't matter if anyone sees or hears of your good deeds!!! The point is that you are doing them. If you are only doing them for the glory.....it sucks for you, but you are still doing the good deeds so it is helping someone. Right things done for the wrong reason are still the right things!!

Do you still want the horns blowing and the fanfare for a good deed if the member you just helped doesn't want people to know he/she needed the help???

I really can't stand the WIIFM attitude, but that seems to be the way society is now. I can't change that, but I can make sure that my kids and the junior folks under me don't have that attitude.

As far as getting new folks to join, I have 2 Ideas, take them or leave them.

1.) ONLINE Membership applications

2.) If each of you takes a non member with you to your next meeting they will get to see what the CPOA is all about and knowledge is half the battle.

Lunch time is over,
Back to work


ETC John D. Zidek
2M School Chief
Asst OOD Coordinator
TraCen Yorktown, VA
757 856 2833

[MSTC SJ Natale]

I TOTALLY agree on the "online application" form.

For me I was given an application form during my CCTI last year. I was told I could use my "blank check" that I supplied to aid in my application fees. I held onto it all because I wanted to observe my local CPOA "in action".

For quite awhile I didnt see a whole lot of action. So I just waited until the time was right for me. Just recently I decide it was time. I vistied the CPOA website just to see if there was a convenient way of joining...nope. So I re-printed the application, filled it out, got an envelope, addressed it and have had it ready to go, just need to remember to stick that check in there and get a sponsor to sign the app.

So in short, application is going out within the week, but I would have already been done if there was an "online" way to do it.

Oh yeah, almost forgot, i decided to join after I started seeing what the CPOA could do for me (which is very subjective, as these may not all be "tangible") AND when I realized I had something to offer to it. I just decided that if the CPOA were to get better, survive, do the things it is designed to do (at least localy) then I might have something to offer to help it along. I cant give any specifics because I dont really know of any, but I guess this is the best way to find out.

[MKC Brandon Andrews]

I am not against the CPOA. I am for a strong Mess. I think participation in the latter should far outweigh participation in the former. I don't think a Chief should need to decide between the two, but if necessary the mess should come first.(Posted by Ken Gouge)

Sorry still learning the ropes on this website. :o

IMHO this explains everything. At least for my situation. When I reported aboard here the local Mess did not have a good reputation, I heard about it 3 districts away! I wanted to help change that first. The local CPOA here is outstanding, they are EXTREMELY active in the community and do an outstanding job. My only problem was that there was more concern for what the CPOA was doing than what the Mess was doing. Thankfully I am glad to see that the Mess has really changed for the better. Trust me I'm not trying to take credit for that, I'm just a small part of something bigger than me.
I dont think I have said this as well as I would like, but my main point is: Take care of the Mess first and continue to build from there. Again, just my humble opinion.
Drew

[BMC Daniel B. Wenger]

I'm a Chief who sent in my membership info and started my allotment almost two months ago and have not received anything yet.

[BMCM Deane Smith]

Dan...have you called or emailed the national office? Their contact info is on the CPOA website. I'm sure that they (the one full time employee) can clear up your status.

SJ & John...maybe I'm mis-reading your posts, but you guys sound like because it's not convienent for you, you don't want to put the effort in to join? Is that what your saying?


Everyone needs to know that the CPOA only has one full time employee. I'm sure things seem slow at times, but there are a lot of things for our one employee to do. It takes every member of the CPOA to make it a better association. In my opinion, our biggest challenge is getting our Chiefs to step up and help make it better. I always hear people say that they don't want to join for (fill in the blank), but they don't want to try and help with (fill in the blank). As Chiefs, we should be part of the solution and not part of the problem.

[ETC John D Zidek]

Not at all Senior.

I went to DA and come january 1st they will be getting my $2 a month via allotment. I have the Membership application sitting here in front of me all filled out and signed by a current member. When I get home I will put it in an envelope and put it in the pile of stuff to be mailed on payday.

The part that I have grief with is that I was able to get the allotment going in about 30 seconds, but to actually become a member is going to take a few months. WHY???

There is a simple solution:

Online forms. In 15 minutes any webmaster worth his salt could update the site, throw a link on to the form, and set up an email account for those forms to go to. Then all you need is someone to process them.

Also not difficult, all you need is access to the member list and the ability to alter it. In a matter of an hour you could have this whole process knocked down from several months to a matter of minutes.

Someone needs to wake up and join us here in the computer age.

Does that work for a solution Senior??

ETC "Z"

[BMCM Deane Smith]

Z...Yes, that's a great solution but it doesn't get the problem fixed. It sounds like you know how to get this online form set up and running. So, maybe you can contact the webmaster/national office and offer to help? That would be great. Everyone has great ideas, but we need people that are willing to put in a small amount of time and make these great ideas happen.

This type of thing will only make our association better. If we all do our little part, we can achieve great things together.

[ETC John D Zidek]

It wouldn't take much to get it all done and would take even less to maintain. Just would need to check the email address a couple times a month.

I would be willing to check the email address and keep the list updated. Shouldn't take more then a couple hours a month, if that, once the bugs are worked out.
"Z"

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Yes I am... A Silver Lifetime member in fact.

Still a member of RTC Yorktown chapter

Started and held 2 tours as Preesident of Corpus Christi Chapter

In my opinion, all Chief's, Senior Chief's and Master Chief's should be a member.

It's called the CPOA for a reason... Support it!

Wray... :cool:

[BMC Daniel B. Wenger]

I did receive my membership packet, our mail person was on leave and did not set up someone to deliver mail while he was gone.

[GMCM Bill Wells (Ret)]

· Mandatory Involvement and should be punitive if you shirk your obligations to the Mess.

I'm a bit late getting to this one, but could someone tell me more about this one? What does shirk mean in this case? Who will hand out the punishment?

I've seen plenty of Chiefs shirk in the past. I bet they still do.

[PAC Jamie Devitt-Chacon ret]

I am not a member of the CPOA. Shortly after my initiation, I started to ask around about it... this is what I found out:

There is no local chapter. No one really appears to know why.

We have chiefs here who are members-at-large, but they don't say much about it one way or another.

At no time, except for here, from the believers, has anyone EVER approached me and said, this is good for you, for us, for everyone.

I have been to the website to try to see if this is an organization I want to belong to. Horrible experience. Their site sucks.

I mostly hear grumbling about how poorly the organization is run, how political it is, and I think I even heard whispering about bad behavior. True or not true, who knows?

I am not the Nintendo generation, but I still want to know WIIFM -- but not just me, but for everyone. I remain unconvinced. I'm sure that some chapters are amazing, but I'm not anywhere near one. And to be a member-at-large seems like I would be throwing my money out there, hoping it would be put to some good use somewhere. I can do a lot more locally in my community with tangible results.

Jamie

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

The CPOA cannot win in this forum, if we advertise what we do, the CPOA is chastised and looked at as "glory hounds" with ulterior motives. If the CPOA does not get the word out, we are looked at as a do nothing good ole boy club.

Here goes, what follows is the efforts of one Chapter.
The Hawaiian Islands Chapter of the CPOA
KATRINA Hurricane Relief Fund
Individual Donations
$4846.00
CPOA Softball Tournament
$3015.00
Texas Hold'em Tournament
$500.00
Total donated to Coast Guard Mutual Assistance in support of CG Family Relief
$8363.00

Here is a snap shot of a CPOA contribution data call that I did for the MCPOCG. Due to the short fuse of my request we do not have all chapters reported, but you will find a good cross section.
Basically 21 Chapters reported that they donated $113,050.00 and expended 23,400 Mhrs. There were some variations/inaccuracies due to incomplete data, however the general gist was captured.

This should bolster the CPOA's stature in the CG community and really hammer home the fact, "The CPOA is getting the JOB done!!!"

************************************************** ******
And there are people at this site that do not want to join the CPOA?

Unbelieveable

What else needs to be said??

Wray.... :cool:

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

I am not a member of the CPOA local or at large yet. I went to my first CPOA Meeting Yesterday here at Yorktown. I now have a better idea of what the CPOA does and I would be a member now IF:

There was an easier way to sign up. How hard would it be to create an online membership application? Leap into the 21st century. They make it so easy to get that allotment started in Direct Access, but now what? Oh I have to print out the form and mail it with a copy of the allotment form??? I don't have a copy of the online form. Do I print my PC Screen and send a copy of that?

So I guess I don't know if I am a member or not, but my allotment will start Jan 2007.

Before I start getting advice and guidance...I am already talking to my local members for assistance.


I really don't like personal attacks and I try carefully not to word things to sound like a personal attack, but every time I type this it sounds that way. I have to do it anyway. If you feel like I am attacking you, I apologize in advance.

It doesn't matter if anyone sees or hears of your good deeds!!! The point is that you are doing them. If you are only doing them for the glory.....it sucks for you, but you are still doing the good deeds so it is helping someone. Right things done for the wrong reason are still the right things!!

Do you still want the horns blowing and the fanfare for a good deed if the member you just helped doesn't want people to know he/she needed the help???

I really can't stand the WIIFM attitude, but that seems to be the way society is now. I can't change that, but I can make sure that my kids and the junior folks under me don't have that attitude.

As far as getting new folks to join, I have 2 Ideas, take them or leave them.

1.) ONLINE Membership applications

2.) If each of you takes a non member with you to your next meeting they will get to see what the CPOA is all about and knowledge is half the battle.

Lunch time is over,
Back to work


ETC John D. Zidek
2M School Chief
Asst OOD Coordinator
TraCen Yorktown, VA
757 856 2833

Chief, did you really say this --> "I would be a member now IF: There was an easier way to sign up."

Let me introduce you to the RTC Chapter....
http://cpoa.coastguard.org/shop.php

If you still need help let me know... I will do what ever it is you need...

or

contact the National office:
(Tom Scaramastro)

Phone: 703-941-0395
Fax: 703-941-0397
E-Mail: cgcpoa@aol.com
(click on "downloads" on the main page.. there is a membership form there, if you still need one...) (print out a few and hand them out to other non members)

Wray... :cool:

[MKC John Shearouse]

When I went threw my CCTI in 1999 I became a member at large. There was no CPOA in the area I was in. But I felt that way not a reason not to be a member. But as the years went on and I saw how being a member at large meant you had no voice in the CPOA I started think on with drawing. Why be a member of something when your opium means nothing. I have since stopped paying my dues and have pulled away from the CPOA and after reading all the post on how it had been going I am glad I did. I dry to be very active in the Locale mess but I will not have any thing to do with the National CPOA again.

J.R. Shearouse MKC

[OSCS Jimmy D. Belcher]

I will reply to parts of this specifically your call to #5. I agree with a couple posts before mine that CPOA and Chief's mess are two seperate entities.

In 20 years of service I have seen the Command and PCPOs get involved with community service projects. D17 Chief's Mess also has it's own section with Adopt a Highway. When cleaning the highway it was active duty chiefs conducting it.
I also have never been asked to give to Toys for Tots by the CPOA, but have given while shopping in malls.
The commands I have been to also support food drives for Jr persons in need of assistance. It has not been solely the Chief's mess. We have ran with these projects for the Command though.
Last would be Disaster Relief. Many times through the years I have heard that the CPOA would be there for the member when disaster struck. I lost everything to Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and then a big portion of my household belongings in North Carolina due to Hurricane Isabel. It was not the CPOA there to assist when the help and assistance was needed, it was Mutual Assistance. CG Mutual Assistance gets something from me monthly due to that fact.

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

"When I went threw my CCTI in 1999............."

Well Chief, I guess it was nice of them (someone) to think of YOU and invite YOU to their CCTI...

CCTI's are held by local chapters.. it would have been nice for you to return the favor, and support them...

Wray... :cool:

[CMC Isherwood]

Thank you all for breathing life back into this thread. As the National CPOA Membership Chair, I can tell you from personal experience, NOTHING is as easy as it appears on the outside.

If anyone is having difficulty becoming a CPOA member please send me an email, I can usually resolve your issue the same day.

The allotment and membership debacle can be explained as a catch 22. Although in DA your allotment starts immediately, the allotment report from PSC to the CPOA Executive Director only goes out once a month. If the allotment report has been rcvd but the Membership blank has not been rcvd and vise versa Membership is delayed. These are the vast majority of the situations that I track down.

If you have further questions or concerns let me know.

[MKC John Shearouse]

BMCM Gilette it is not only the CPOA chapter that does the CCTI. It is also locale Chiefs Mess that holds them. When I went threw there was no Locale chapter of the CPOA and it was my cutter's mess that ran the CCTI. If there was then maybe my views of the CPOA would be a little different. Now in San Diego the Chief's Mess also does the CCTI. Once again no CPOA Chapter. Like I try to say in my last post I try to be very active in my locale mess. Since there is no locale chapter of the CPOA I am not active in the CPOA.

[GMCM Bill Wells (Ret)]

Why be a member of something when your opium means nothing.
J.R. Shearouse MKC

I am sure it has some street value. Couldn't resist.

[MKC John Shearouse]

My bad! I never said I was a good at spelling.

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

BMCM Gilette it is not only the CPOA chapter that does the CCTI. It is also locale Chiefs Mess that holds them. When I went threw there was no Locale chapter of the CPOA and it was my cutter's mess that ran the CCTI. If there was then maybe my views of the CPOA would be a little different. Now in San Diego the Chief's Mess also does the CCTI. Once again no CPOA Chapter. Like I try to say in my last post I try to be very active in my locale mess. Since there is no locale chapter of the CPOA I am not active in the CPOA.

You are correct.. I forgot about the "Chief's Mess" doing them in remote areas.. I wouldn't think the area you are in has a shortage of CG units.. but I guess I may be wrong.

If you do have enough interest, you could always start a chapter.. I did!... I thought sure San Diego had one, maybe it folded.. not sure...

Wray... :cool:

[MKC John Shearouse]

Yes Master Chief the area I am now in does have a lot of Coast Guard Units. But it has not had a CPOA Chapter for a few years. I do believe it folded a couple of years before I came here.

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Yes Master Chief the area I am now in does have a lot of Coast Guard Units. But it has not had a CPOA Chapter for a few years. I do believe it folded a couple of years before I came here.

I was never stationed out that way, but I think there are about 5 chapters in the state of CA.

Why not make it 6..... ??

If you are going to support the mess, why not the CPOA?

National will give you loots of help in starting a chapter...

Wray.... :cool:

[PACS Steve Carleton]

BMCM Gilette it is not only the CPOA chapter that does the CCTI. It is also locale Chiefs Mess that holds them. When I went threw there was no Locale chapter of the CPOA and it was my cutter's mess that ran the CCTI.

Why is the CPOA running a CCTI? Below is a couple of definitions from an e-mail I received from MCPO Jennings when he was the LANTAREA CMC



Chiefs Mess. The Chiefs Mess has two meanings. First, it is simply the group of E-7s, E-8s, and E-9s attached to a unit. But Chiefs Mess also refers to the physical room or meeting space, sometimes a separate building. On occassion, the physical space (Chiefs Mess) can be used for other purposes, such as testing, training, or holding meetings such as the Chief Petty Officers Association.

CPOA. It's important to understand the difference between the Chief's Mess, and the Chief Petty Officers Association. The difference between these two groups is often misunderstood and confusion results. A leading cause is that until very recently, both groups were nearly identical- the CPOA being the social and financial arm of the Mess. But an increase in hazing in 1994 forced a distinct separation in the responsibilities of each group. Initiations, once a CPOA fundraiser, are now exclusive responsibilities of the Chiefs Mess.

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

While the CPOA conducted the initiations, they were never intended as a fund raiser... Their main intent was to formally introduce then new Chief to the other members.

At RTC we would use a portion of the money collected to give the new Chief his/her first year membership into the CPOA. Some of the other money raised paid for the food & beverages provided for all... we also provided them a certificate and plaque.

What ever the CPOA is today, is a direct reflection of the active duty members. While retired folks have always attended, both initiations, meetings, and all other functions, the obvious majority of members are, would be and should be those on active duty.

Wray... :cool:

[BMCS Dave Considine]

I do not remember the exact specifics, but was told not too long ago that the actual "messes" are not allowed to hold money in an account unless they are incorporated - or something like that. The CPOA is a legal corporation (not sure if that is the correct term, but I will try and find out) and therefore can maintain a bank account etc.

Can anyone expound on this? I may have the semantics wrong but it made sense when they explained it a few years back and the Boston "mess" had given all their funds to the Boston "CPOA". This may explain why the CCTI's are "performed" by the CPOA, and not actually the "mess".

Maybe it was the whole non-profit thing. I'll put some feeler's out.

[ETC Joe Jester ret]

The CPOA and it's chapters are part of a 501(c)3 organization. As such, the various chapters maintain funds for their various events ... and the Initiation was such an event.

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Going back to the first post, I think it is time for a numbers update....

Wray.. :cool:

[MKCM Jim Bridges (Ret)]

The CPOA or the chiefs mess, how about both? Active duty chiefs have a choice until they retire, after that you are outside the mess looking in. I am retired and live in Charleston SC, there is no CPOA chapter here. The active duty chiefs in the area are part of the low country chiefs mess and they do some great things. The CMC of the mess has invited me on several occasions to be a guest at some of their activities, I have and enjoyed the fellowship. I would like to be a member not a guest of the mess, however that is not a option. The CPOA is open to regular, reserve, retired and you can be a member for life!

Jim

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Hey Kevin, any chance for an update of the numbers (from post #1)..... With only 24 % or so of 'active duty' Chiefs members of the CPOA, this may explain many problems, or,... why there is such little interest in things these days...

Wray... :cool:

[CMC Isherwood]

Wray,
CPOA #s as of 01Aug are at 9127.

[CMC Isherwood]

Wray,
Thanks for the the CPOA plug on Fred's Place. I am very interested in the responses to that thread. I won't post over there because ANYONE can say ANYTHING without owning up to their comments.

[ETC Joe Jester ret]

I won't post over there because ANYONE can say ANYTHING without owning up to their comments.

And this prevents you from posting your comments under your name because ?

People post things in the opines of newspapers under the anonymous bylines daily. The newspaper knows who they are as does military.com for the most part. There is no difference.

You don't have to respond to anonymous types ... and you can post that you don't when they comment on your thoughts.

The great debate of this country wasn't done by those known entities. Some of those known entities published in the newspapers anonymously ... as in the Federalist and Anti-Federealist papers.

Not posting your thoughts is depriving that audience of what you offer, but, it's still your choice. :)

[CMC Isherwood]

Joe,
I have no problem posting under my name and stand behind each post. However, I have chosen NOT to engage those that cowardly lob $hit grenades under the cover of anonymity.

Personal choice I guess, I won't talk to "cold calling" solicitors on the phone either.

If the audience feels cheated by my not posting, they can contact me directly, I answer every email that I receive.

[CMC Isherwood]

Wray,
You have hit on a topic of interest over there at FP, too bad we have not been able to garner that much zest in here.

I appreciate all the feedback that I have been reading and will present what is useful to both MCPOCG and the CPOA's elected leadership.

It appears no matter how many times CPOA vice Mess is clearly delineated, 10% still don't get the word. I have NEVER been at a CPOA function or event where CWOs were not welcome.

[ETC Joe Jester ret]

Kevin,

There are a few I ignore over there as well. Mostly anonymous types.

[FSC Mike Rawski]

CPOA was something I intended to join from the very beginning. An EMC took me aside once he knew I made the cut and told me about it. I hear so little about CPOA that I forgot about it. It crossed my mind every now and then but I never did sign up. There was a meeting yesterday of our local chapter and I was reminded yet again. I felt like an @ss for taking this long so, this morning I filled out my application and set up my allotment.

I feel better,
Mike

[ETC Michael Geelan]

I am no longer a dues paying member of the CPOA. However I am an active participant in my local chapter. I regularly attend the meetings (but do not vote) and participate in almost all the fundraising and community service projects. I was a dues paying member up until last October when the “special election” happened. All members of the chapter were understandably upset by these actions but could get no clarification or response from national. So what does my membership get except a “quarterly” magazine.
Recently when having a local election the chapter bought steak lunches for those who attended. Guess what? The house was packed with “card carrying members”; all eager to get their free eats. I did not attend because I thought that the money could be used better elsewhere. Seventy percent of those members never attend a monthly meeting or participate in chapter events. The meals that they ate were paid for by the efforts of members such as myself. As far as I am concerned they should not have had the right to vote.
So what does national do? I know the purpose of the CPOA, we have all read it, but what does it really do. What is currently on its agenda (besides another convention)? What are its current successes and/or challenges? Where is my $24 dollars being put to use. No one seems to know.
I will continue to support my local chapter with time and supplies for projects but until I know what national is really doing I would rather put the money into the local fund.

ETC G

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Wray,
CPOA #s as of 01Aug are at 9127.

Kevin, how many active duty Chiefs are there in the CPOA?

Wray.. :cool:

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Kevin,
Doing a little number crunching from those you provided on page one it appears that out of 9,282 members only 2863 are "active duty" folks, 2402 of which are "Chiefs".....

That would indicate that the 6,419 that make up the difference are primarily retired members.

I'd say the active duty Chiefs need to pick up the pace.... ready for incoming...

Wray... :cool:

[CMC Bruce Bradley]

Wray, I think your crunching might be a little off to the high side for the AD Chiefs. But its not like your working off of the real info which would be hard to get ahold of since I can't find it either, thus the crunched guess. I doubt that we have that many AD Chiefs as CPOA members. Your number is well above the 50% number of all AD Chiefs, sad as it is that we are that lacking.

Beside there will always be more retired Chiefs out there than us AD guys, which is how it should be. You all need to be around to collect those checks for at least as long as it took to earn them. That's my plan at least when I join ya all.

[BMCM Wray Gillette (Ret)]

Bruce,
I used the numbers Kevin provided on page one of this thread... They are a little old, that is why I was asking him for a complete update....

While it is great for the retired guys to participate, I believe it is really up to the "active duty" guys to run it & certainly give it more than a 50% support effort.... it does not appear to be happening..

Kevin?

Wray... :cool:

[CMC Bruce Bradley]

Thanks Wray, it's been almost 2 years since I looked at the start of this thread, forgot Kevin had posted that info there. I'll hazard a guess that the current number might not be too far off those from 2005, if anything a little less. But I'll make the point that those are the National membership numbers.

I know for a fact that there are numerous Chiefs out here that are active in the CPOA at the local level that are not dues paying members of the National CPOA. I've seen it in my past and current chapter. Although not true CPOA members, they are there when help is needed and participate in Chapter events and fundraisers. They just question, as has been asked in this and other threads already just what their $24 national dues gets them.

As far as the retired vs. AD, we already know what the numbers are at the National level. Your asking why more AD aren't involved in running the CPOA at that level, just look at the Convention thread again. Most of that is all way above the heads of us who can't dedicate hours upon hours of our days just keeping up. It's gotten so scewed that trying to fix it is almost impossible, thus starting over looks easier. Trying to get the AD to step up and take back over is an almost impossible task currently. I would like to know (as would most) what the election numbers were from the last couple of elections. And I want to see the complete breakdown of those. I highly suspect that a large majority of the disallowed votes were AD ones. That coupled with the larger voting block of the retired and that recognized name thing I highly doubt that we AD will ever run the CPOA again.