Presidents Message:                                                                          12/30/2022

CAPT Michael J. DeHaemer, USN (Ret.)

The Star Spangled Banner Chapter is going “Full Speed Ahead” for 2023 . With the assistance of MOAA National and members of the Maryland Council of Chapters, we conducted a successful revitalization meeting last November.  A full slate of energetic officers and service representatives for 2023 were confirmed by the Board in December, and we are preparing for a full schedule of meetings, field trips, and member activities in the New Year.

We will continue our mission:

• looking after active duty and veterans’ interests in Maryland and nationally
• recognizing newly commissioned officers from the area ROTC units
• serving our community, particularly supporting paws4vets
• and providing opportunities to enjoy the camaraderie of our common service.

Opening the New Year will be a dinner meeting, 18 January, at the Blue Stone Restaurant in Timonium. Captain Jan Miles will talk about his long career and adventures as the skipper of the tall sailing ship Pride of Baltimore II. There will be a lunch meeting in March. Plans are in the works for attending the Sunset Parade at the US Marine Corps Barracks in June with another outing in late summer. Of course, we will celebrate our 59th Anniversary in November.

Every Chapter Member is on the Program Committee! Please give me your input (by email or phone) on speakers, dining venues, costs, time of days, or other ideas. Send to: mike.dehaemer@gmail.com; text or phone 443    695-4741.

We will be active with the Maryland Military Coalition and the Maryland Council of MOAA Chapters to advance legislation in support of military personnel issues.  In particular we support the elimination of state income tax for military retirees. LTC Bill Gray, Legislative Affairs Liaison, recently notified chapter members of the email alert system put in place by our State Council of MOAA Chapters for the 2023 session of the Maryland General Assembly. You may assist by a quick response to the alerts during the General Assembly beginning 11 January 2023.

The ROTC/JROTC programs are supported by our $25 annual dues which fund the Army Officer Guides presented to newly commissioned 2nd Lieutenants, and MOAA Certificates and Medals presented to cadets that show exceptional potential for leadership.

Thank you for you support! Your active membership is key. With your help, we will continue to grow our chapter’s membership in the greater Baltimore area, present meaningful programs, take care of our military communities and greatly enjoy lively camaraderie!

Mike DeHaemer

CAPT, USN (Ret.)

President, Star Spangled Banner Chapter
Military Officers Association of America, MOAA
mike.dehaemer@gmail.com

443 695-4741