Join the Marine Corps Association
And the Washington, D.C. Area Marine Community
at these Upcoming MCA Professional Events
26 Feb 2009
Springfield Hilton, Springfield, VA
Guest Speaker - BGen Michael M. Brogan, Commander Marine Corps Systems Command
31 Mar 2009
Paradise Point Officers Club, Camp Lejeune, NC
Guest Speaker - BGen Ronald J. Johnson
Director, Operations Division, Plans, Policies
and Operations Department, HQMC
13 May 2009
Hyatt Crystal City, Arlington, VA
Guest Speaker - TBD
MCA GROUND AWARDS DINNER
27 May 2009
Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington, VA
Guest Speaker - TBD
(General Palm's message to members will return in March.)
MCA Annual Report. MCA's 2009 Annual Report will be included with the March editions of both the Marine Corps Gazette and Leatherneck Magazines. Be on the look out and see how your professional association did in 2008 and see where it wants to go in 2009!
MCA Member Directory. Many MCA members purchased the 2009 Marine Corps Association Membership Directory but were unable to post some of their material in the directory by the time it was published. To redress this situation, MCA's website now features a page where we post corrections and material that inadvertently did not make it into the Directory. HERE is the direct link, which you can also reach from our homepage.
Image of 2009 Directory
Advertise in MCA Today! MCA Today has over 44,000 loyal readers each month and is a great place to advertise. If you would like us to include a promotional ad for your business or organization in a monthly edition of MCA Today send your request to promotions@mca-marines.org .
MCA's New Website Feature SAVES YOU MONEY! For super deals on a HUGE range of consumer products try out MCA's One-Stop Shopping Center Today! Including access to Name Brand clothing, electronics, apparel, pet supplies, travel, and a range of other sought after products, MCA's One-Stop Shopping Center is a portal that connects YOU with great deals ONLINE, offering convenience and significant savings to the shopper who uses it. And the good news is, when you use the service, you not only SAVE money on high quality products but your purchase directly helps support MCA's Awards Program which provides professional recognition to Marines all over the Corps. You can't beat that. Click on the link above to check it out today!
and more!
SPECIAL SAVINGS ALERT - Walt Disney World Special Ticket Offer for the Military Community
Available to all active duty and retired military, Walt Disney World is offering deeply discounted ticket packages during the period 4 Jan - 23 Dec 2009. Click HERE for details.
The Corps commands the affections and loyalty of those who earned the title "MARINE." Staying connected to the Corps and its activities is important to Marines. The very best way to stay connected is through membership in The Professional Association for ALL Marines -- The Marine Corps Association!
MCA membership includes a print or online subscription to one or both of MCA's flagship magazines: Marine Corps Gazette, the professional journal of U.S. Marines and /or Leatherneck, magazine of the Marines. These are the absolute best publications for keeping Marines in touch with the Marine Corps and all of its activities.
MCA recognizes the special needs of regularly deployed Marines. Accordingly, we developed flexible membership options to provide uninterrupted membership support even while deployed. Specifically, MCA's ONLINE-ONLY membership option provides ONLINE access to BOTH magazines from ANYWHERE in the world a Marine can access the Internet, and includes all the other, regular membership benefits at a generous savings of about 24% off the print edition membership rates. All active duty Marines should strongly consider this option when they join or renew their memberships.
Both the Marine Corps Gazette and Leatherneck feature high quality, and creatively illustrated articles of real value to Marines, written largely by Marines. Both are tremendous vehicles for keeping current with professional issues and the unfolding Marine Corps story.
Our Online magazine editions provide the same content as the print editions, but have enhanced features only available in a web based format. These include complete, searchable archives extending back to 1916, audio and video feeds, graphic slide shows, and interactive discussion boards where ANY reader can join a debate on a range of controversial issues. Hot linked key words facilitating additional reading on favorite topics is also a key feature in the Online editions.
While you get a lot with an MCA membership, it is important to note that your membership also allows you to GIVE Back! Your membership dues, directly supports the MCA Awards Program, which provides incentive awards and professional recognition to now over 8,600 Marines annually for professional and academic achievement. MCA is the largest awards provider in the Corps thanks to support from YOUR membership!
We invite you to join YOUR professional association if you are not a member. Call toll-free at 866-622-1775, EMAIL us at mca@mca-marines.org, or go online at: http://www.mca-marines.org/joinrenew.asp.
New members mention code NEMTN209. Renewals mention code REMTN209.
Leatherneck will anchor its March issue with the first of a two-part article on the Vietnam War's Battle of Dai Do. Written by retired Lieutenant Colonel Otto Lehrack -- photos are provided by the commander of "The Magnificent Bastards" of 2d Battalion, 4th Marines during that great battle, then-Lieutenant Colonel William "Wild Bill" Weise. You will want to log into our digital edition to catch the photo slide show that we have added to the online article, courtesy of Brigadier General Weise. Also, in the March issue is an article on the Marines assigned to Havana in the U.S. Interests Section, which operates under the protection of the Swiss government. Another feature you won't want to miss is "Afghanistan: Operation Eagle." Dr. Andrew Lubin went to Afghanistan and embedded with Marines to produce this article on how a combined force of Marines, French and Afghan National Army units hit the Taliban hard during a night attack in the Uzbeen Valley .
The March Gazette highlights the training being conducted at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC) in Bridgeport, California to prepare Marines to fight in mountainous terrain such as Afghanistan. In 1940 the Marine Corps published The Small Wars Manual an encyclopedic manual still relevant today on how to conduct counterinsurgency. The manual contained chapters on selecting and utilizing pack animals for combat patrols. Well it is back to the future as you can see from this picture. Bridgeport or Pickle Meadows as it used to be known teaches Marines how to patrol both with Molly and shank's mare. Marines will use these versatile animals in Afghanistan where HUMVEES and wheeled vehicles fear to tread. Also included in the March issue is the annual report to members on your professional association.
MEMBERSHIP / RENEWAL NOTICES
We value your membership and the more members MCA has the more resources we have available for supporting Marines! But, here are a couple of other incentives to encourage our members to stick with us.
Renew your membership by the 10th of the month after receiving your FIRST membership renewal notice we will enter your name in a drawing to win a bottle of highly popular USMC Semper Fi Cologne. And, to increase your odds we hold two drawings with two winners each month.
Our lucky January winners are:
Mr Henry C. Norman Jr. of Spring Hill, FL
LtCol Jeffrey P. Lipson of Downingtown, PA
Congratulations to our winners! AND, if you didn't win you can still get some Semper Fi Cologne for yourself! Just click on the logo above!
AND there is more! EVERYONE who renews their membership early is eligible for a $15.00 discount from FTD. Details on how to access your discount was provided on the cover wrap of the February print edition of your magazine and is also detailed NOW on the Leatherneck and Gazette home pages after your member log in.
Marine Corps Association ONLINE Store
MCA's ONLINE Store carries the best professional reading of interest to Marines, including all in-print titles in the USMC Professional Reading Program and also features a wide range of specialty gifts for Marines. From high quality apparel with Marine logo's, to prints, plaques, jewelry and other items, we have what Marines want.
Browse our ONLINE Store from the comfort of your home! Check it out at:
WWW.MCA-MARINES.ORG
Featured Gifts For Marines!
WOOD PLAQUE
In dark stained cherry wood, our Semper Fidelis plaque features a crisp laser engraved Marine Corps emblem elegantly set against a contrasting black frame. A plaque to cherish, at 19" X 19" it will be the focal point of any wall!
102628
Member Price: $108.00
Non-Member Price: $120.00
MARINE WIFE'S CREST PRINT
Our framed and matted crest print pays fitting and heart felt tribute to those amazingly resilient but too often under sung heroines -- The Marine wife! Dimensions -- 17" x 22".
102326
Member Price: $207.00
Non-Member Price: $230.00
CRYSTAL BOWL
An etched Eagle, Globe and Anchor graces the front of our elegant hand-cut crystal bowl. At 5 3/4" x 4" high it is perfect for mints and salted peanuts at get-togethers for Marines. This is a special order, non-returnable item and requires 2-3 weeks for delivery.
103848
Member Price: $112.50
Non-Member Price: $125.00
DECANTER SET
Our heavy crystal decanter comes with two "rocks" glasses and features full color USMC emblems. Ideal for storing your favorite strong spirits.
104064
Member Price: $68.04
Non-Member Price: $75.60
Marine Corps Association Book Stores
To order, Call ( Monday - Friday 0800-1630)
Toll Free: 1-888-237-7683
Fax: 703-630-1446
Email: customercare@mca-marines.org
Visit the MCA Book Store at Camp Lejeune and our Flagship Store -- The MARINE Shop at Quantico!
Click Here for Addresses
NEED HELP WITH RETAIL OR MEMBERSHIP PROBLEMS?
If you experience problems with our Online Store, with telephone orders or with your membership, the following phone numbers can get you the assistance you need:
(Mon-Fri 0800-1630 EST)
1-866-622-1775
(Mon-Fri 0800-1630 EST)
1- 888-237-7683
THE MARINE SHOP
MCA's Flagship Store!
The MARINE Shop is THE most prestigious provider of Marine uniforms and accessories in the Corps. If you want to look your professional best, let our expert staff equip you with the highest quality and most precisely tailored uniforms available anywhere!
Whether you need the best Marine uniforms, the most current professional reading or a special gift a Marine will treasure
The MARINE Shop is where you want to go!
MCA Cordially Invites YOU to visit in person and Online:
The MARINE Shop
300 Potomac Ave
Quantico, Virginia
(703) 640-7195
www.marineshop.com
The MARINE Shop offers member value pricing to all MCA Members on select items.
MCA Career Center
Our Mission is Simple...
We Help Marines Looking for Jobs
We also help employers find the BEST possible employees -- MARINES...
Click here to Check It Out NOW!
We regularly post exciting, new U.S and Overseas jobs at MCA's Career Center and we constantly update our large database filled with resumes from highly experienced Marines seeking responsible employment. If you are looking for a job or for a successful Marine to fill a position, this is where you want to look!
Marines AND their dependents are welcome to use MCA's Career Center free of charge and don't have to be MCA members to do so!
MCA's Career Center is Where YOU Want to start your Search!
Featured Jobs for February:
Click on the link to check them out in detail
Test Pilot - SURVICE Engineering - Quantico, VA,
http://careers.mca-marines.org/jobdetail.cfm?job=3072845
Program Manager, Logistics - ICF International - Arlington, VA,
http://careers.mca-marines.org/jobdetail.cfm?job=3073463
Computer Forensics Technician - NEK - Colorado Springs, CO,
http://careers.mca-marines.org/jobdetail.cfm?job=3068561
Operations Improvement Manager - Waste Management - Kirkland, WA
http://careers.mca-marines.org/jobdetail.cfm?job=3071654
OTHER UPCOMING MCA PROFESSIONAL EVENTS FOR YOUR CALENDARS:
MCA holds professional luncheon, dinner and "Meet the Author" / book signing events in the Washington, D.C. area, at Camp Lejeune, Camp Pendleton and other select areas. Our professional events feature top Marine, and civilian leaders as guest speakers and our book signing events showcase well-known authors who write about Marines, their battles, and also about contemporary issues affecting Marines and the nation's security. MCA professional events provide Marines with unique and memorable professional development opportunities and have become "Must Attend" events for all Marines within driving range.
Book Signing
The MARINE Shop
Quantico, VA
Meet William B. Hopkins, author of The Pacific War: The Strategy, Politics and Players That Won the War
MCA Ground Dinner
TBD
Guest Speaker - TBD
Your subscription to one or both of MCA's flagship magazines, Leatherneck and / or the Marine Corps Gazette remains your most important membership benefit. Membership comes with other benefits including Member Value Pricing at all of MCA's stores, including MCA's Flagship Store - The MARINE Shop, our bookstore at Camp Lejeune, and also at MCA's ONLINE Store. Member Value Pricing means exclusive member discounts on our extensive selection of professional reading, specialty gifts and on many uniform items. Membership also gives you access to great deals from well-known companies who provide our members with computer discounts and special deals on credit cards, insurance policies, rental cars, travel, educational programs and a whole lot more.
Check out the links below for additional information. AND, help us help you! Tell us what other member benefits you would like us to offer. Email us at promotions@mca-marines.org with your suggestions.
How will you spend the years ahead? That may depend on the long-term care insurance you choose today....
Like most people, you probably recognize the need for long-term care insurance. It's not simply "nursing home" coverage, but insurance that helps assure you of continued independence as you age - without depleting the personal assets you've worked hard to acquire. But choosing the right protection from the many plans available can be a daunting task.
Long Term Care Resources has partnered with the Marine Corps Association to offer a comprehensive Long Term Care Program. MCA members are entitled to a special discount on certain LTC plans available through this program.
Call Long Term Care Resources today to receive a free MCA Long Term Care Planning Kit. To speak with an authorized LTC Specialist in your area, please contact LTCR Toll Free at (800) 616-8759 or click here for more information.
What is so great about MCA's special program with Grantham University? First, it is inexpensive -- MCA members save up to 25% on tuition and educational materials fees, which is a huge savings for you. Second, the program extends eligibility to MCA member spouses and children as well as to the member. Third, Grantham University academic programs are flexible and portable, offering a wide range of in demand academic majors at the Associate, Bachelors and Masters levels with all programs conducted entirely ONLINE at the convenience of the student. Take the course load you want, when you want and where you want. For Marines who constantly face lengthy operational deployments that would disrupt a traditional education program, Grantham University is a first rate program that supports Marines and their dependents with the opportunity to continue their education anywhere in the world. Click on Grantham's logo to check out their programs today!
COMPUTER SAVINGS
The ultimate all-in-one iMac desktop computer is now even faster and offers the most powerful graphics ever available in an iMac. At speeds up to 3.06GHz, the latest-generation dual-core Intel processors powering iMac are faster than ever, offering greater performance for everything from enhancing photos to playing games and more.
Dell also gives quality discounts to MCA Members. Visit www.dell.com/USMC or
call 1-866-257-4711. Member ID: DS62593492
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM SPONSORS
The Marine Corps Association sincerely thanks our sponsors for their generous support throughout the busy 2008 professional event schedule, and welcomes additional sponsor support for our exciting 2009 schedule
---------------------------------- PREMIER DIAMOND: ----------------------------------
---------------------------------- PREMIER SILVER: ----------------------------------
---------------------------------- PREMIER
BRONZE: ----------------------------------
------------------- And to our Individual Event Sponsors: -------------------
Gold: Harris, Smartronix
Silver: EMA, MITRE, Impact Resources Technologies
Bronze: AFCEA; Agility Logistics; AT&T Government Solutions; BAE Systems; Cisco; ClearedJobs.net; Columbia Group; CTC; CSC; DCS; Deloitte Consulting; DSC; EG&G; eNTEGRITI; Exeter; Force Protection; Geico; Gyrocam; Hartford Insurance; Honeywell; Kollsman; L-3 Titan; Microsoft; Motorola; Nammo Talley; Navistar;
Professional Solutions;
R. Phillips Enterprises; Rheinmetall; SAIC; Shee Atika Tech; Sodexo; SRA International; Stanley, Inc.; Tandberg; Taser; Telos; Tesoro Corp.; Tompkins Builders; Trader Construction; Wackenhut Services; Whitley, Bradley & Brown, Inc.; W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
Corporate Sponsors: First Citizens Bank; Logis-Tech; Pacific Marine Credit Union
The Marine Corps has many important needs for which taxpayer-appropriated funds may not be used and that is where non-profit organizations like the Marine Corps Association fill a critical role. A key case in point is the MCA Awards Program. This program is totally funded by member dues and sponsor support and gives the Marine Corps the resources to recognize the professional achievements of Marines in a large variety of worthy circumstances.
Annually, the MCA Awards program provides leadership, performance and academic recognition to over 8,600 deserving Marines and sailors with funding provided by member and corporate sponsor support.
Additionally, another key initiative shouldered by the Association, the MCA Professional Events program provides professional development opportunities with key Corps and national level leaders with partial funding provided by corporate sponsors. MCA welcomes your company's support and involvement in our 2009 Marine Corps Association events schedule.
For information on becoming a corporate sponsor, contact LeeAnn Mitchell at l.mitchell@mca-marines.org.
MARINE TRIVIA QUESTION
Our trivia question contest generated a lot of interest again this month with an unprecedented number of exactly correct answers. Many thanks to all who participated. Here is your February question.
The first person to e-mail the correct answer to comments@mca-marines.org will receive an exclusive MCA Coin. Please include your name and address in your e-mail. Good luck!Q. What do these three American cities (Raleigh, Vancouver, LaSalle) share in common that is of interest to expeditionary Marines?
A.
Here's our January trivia question reprinted for ready reference:
Congratulations to LtCol William Koehle of Erie, Pennsylvania for being the first with the correct answer!Q. In the air my name is Lightning. As a different incarnation held in the hand when not encased in leather my name is Walther. In a third incarnation, for Marines in the pursuit of preparing expeditionary culinary delights I am an indispensable pocket sized device named for a legendary actor who never served in the Marines but played several iconic roles that forever associates him with Marines. What is the common designator number of these three distinctively different items, what are each of the items and who is the actor associated with the device used by Marines and its purpose?
A. P-38 is the number designator common to all three items which are:
P-38 Lightning -- a twin engine fighter interceptor widely used by the Army Air Corps during WW-II.
P-38 Walther -- a 9mm, semi automatic pistol used as a side arm by WW-II German military personnel.
P-38 Can Opener -- A small, folding can opener used to open military rations from before WW-II up until the adoption of more modern rations such as MRE's. Also called a John Wayne.
COMMENTS? We welcome suggestions for the improvement of MCA Today. Send your comments and suggestions to: comments@mca-marines.org and we will strongly consider them. What would you like to see and what do you not like about MCA Today? Let us know so that we can serve you better.
MCA MAILING LIST. Would you like to add yourself or someone you know to MCA's mailing list in order to receive MCA Today each month? It's a GREAT way to stay connected and it is easy to do! Just send us the names, mailing and email addresses for those you would like us to add to customercare@mca-marines.org and we will include them.
Semper Fidelis!
LeeAnn Mitchell
Director of Marketing and Communications
comments@mca-marines.org