Bullhorn - #82 - 9 March 2011

ANAers! This issue of the BULLHORN starts with a message from our President:

As you all well know membership is the life-blood of our Association.  Memberships support us financially. However, membership is even more important in sustaining our numbers, keeping the Association vibrant, making sure we have the voices necessary to get the word out about the greatness and importance Naval Aviation, working “…to educate and encourage an interest among the general public as to the importance of Naval Aviation in the defense of the United States and its allies….” ANA began more than 35 years ago with a membership comprised heavily of veterans from WWII, and the Korea and Viet Nam Wars. Three and a half decades later that cadre of membership is graying rapidly and, unfortunately, diminishing in numbers. The gradual loss of that initial cadre is not being replenished sufficiently and our overall numbers are diminishing. We need to stop that trend – and NOW. We ask each and every member – each squadron, each person – to work diligently to keep current members, to renew everyone = no expirations! And we ask everyone to get out, beat the bushes, and carry the message that ANA is important – it is vital, that our mission, is critical. Our goal is to inspire the general public and bring them on board,so that they may add their voice to the cause and join with us to promote and PRESERVE Naval Aviation. Naval Aviation is sure to be challenged in this age of shrinking budgets as our nation struggles to deal with mounting, monumental economic problems. We need the voices of ALL HANDS – AND EVERYONE ELSE WE CAN MUSTER - to convey our message. Your active work on membership will help us move toward that goal.

Best regards,

Wally Massenburg