News from Military Officers Association of America Cape Canaveral Chapter (MOAACC)

MOAACC Leadership Nomination Letter for 2027

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 14:26:30 GMT

Unofficial VMC Brevard Vets Events Calendar - September 2026 and Beyond

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 15:30:57 GMT

UNOFFICIAL BREVARD VMC VETERAN EVENTS CALENDAR — September 2026 AND BEYOND.

Contact BVMC for any additions or other information.

NOTE: Some Events Change in between our monthly mailing of the BVMC Calendar. Keep up to date with those changes using our web link: https://veteransmemorialcenter.org/upcoming-veterans-events/

SEPTEMBER

26 Sep — Special Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Dinner and Celebration sponsored by the Vietnam Exhibit Project led by Ben Bydalek. Azon Temple , 1591 W Eau Gallie Blvd, Melbourne. Event starts at 1530. FREE Dinner 1630 -1730 with other events until 2000. VVA Chapter 1096 co sponsor. Contact Ben for more info. thenamwar@yahoo.com

27 Sep — Dice Run by AMVETS riders Chapter 2415 (0830- 1600. Ride Cycles, Roll Dice and Win with 6 stops starting with AM Legion Post 1 in Titusville. Plenty of eats and drinks (non- alcoholic ) at $20 per rider and $10 per passenger. Proceeds benefit Veteran Barry Munn’s battle with cancer. Contact AMVETS for more info. Register at 0900-1000 at AL Post 1.

30 Sep — Brevard No One Veteran Left Behind Memorial Service at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Mims 0900-1000. We will lay to rest almost 20 Veterans and Spouses who were abandoned by their families and left on funeral home shelves in some cases for decades. Call to support with urn, flag and flower bearers along with witnesses will be made before Labor Day. CCNC will also read the names of all veterans and spouses laid to rest during the past year with no family present. Let us thus pay respects to our veterans that will finally lay in honored rest as America promised. Contact Donn Weaver, donnweaver2020@gmail.com for more information and to volunteer.

OCTOBER

03 Oct — JROTC Raider Challenge Meet #1 at BVMC Park and Amphitheater. (0630- 1230). Honor and Support the cadets from over 10 schools 1030-1200 and help award trophies.

10 Oct — Medal of Honor BBQ , Craft Fair, Specialty Car show, live music, food trucks and more. Sponsored by SpaceX and other MOH Foundation supporters with proceeds going to support veteran families in distress. Contact BVMC VP Don Pearsall for more information on 321-313-2444. . (1000- 1600).

15 Oct — Defending America Conversation “Understanding the Threat of Islamic Extremism” by Ambassador Stanley Escudero. Sponsored by the American Security Council Foundation. 1130-1300 at the Double Tree Suites in Indialantic - 1665 A1A. Registration $50 which includes lunch. more info and to register : info@ascf.us or 772-388-2490.

17 Oct — Space Coast Honor Flight #5 of 5 2026 visits by veterans to see their monuments and memorials in Wash DC. Starts at 0400 hours at Melbourne International Airport Main Terminal with Welcome home set 2030 hours same evening. Come out and honor these veterans , some from the Korean War era and their Guardians that will travel with them. Many veteran organizations and community groups support this amazing program. MOAACC Good Deeds funds FIT ROTC Cadets and Veterans in the VA sponsored FIT Psych PhD program to serve as guardians throughout the year. Contact schf.org for more information and to sign up on the waiting list for both honorees and guardians.

27 Oct — Resilience: From Service to Strength. A morning of Inspiration, Connection and Hope. For First Responders and Veterans Space Coast Health Foundation 1100 Rockledge Blvd 0900-1200. MG Gregg Martin Keynote Speaker . Contact the SCHF to register. Space is limited.

31 Oct — JROTC Raider Challenge Meet #2 at BVMC Park and Amphitheater. (0630-1230)

NOVEMBER

07 Nov — Annual St Francis Hospice 5K Run for Veterans at the new Veterans Memorial Park Amphitheater and Plaza 0730- 1130. Includes vendors, awards, veteran pinning as SFH raises funds for their “ We Honor Veterans Program “ throughout the County all year. Details and registration in September.

07 Nov — Third Annual Cape Canaveral Veterans Day Parade sponsored by VFW Post 10131. Starts and Ends near the Cape Canaveral City Hall at 1111 Hours until 1330. Includes music, vendors, food, and more. Sign ups and more information in October.

07 Nov — Second Annual VyStar MOACC Good Deeds Foundation Veterans Recognition Dinner 1700-2000 Fundraiser at the Melbourne Hilton Rialto as they recognize veteran organizations, projects and individuals who have made major contributions on the Space Coast 2025-26. Keynote Speaker is Rep Mike Haridopolos, with Clerk of Courts Rachel Sadoff as MC and Sheriff Wayne Ivey as Auctioneer. Sign up to sponsor tables or reserve seats at moaacc.org

08 Nov — Home Stretch 9th Annual 5K sponsored by National Veterans Homeless Support in the Eau Gallie Arts District with the start at 0800 hours. Sign up at https://runsignup.com/homestretch5k

11 Nov — Veteran Day Events at BVMC and many other locations in the county. Details in October.

14 Nov — JROTC Raider Challenge Meet #3 for District Championship at BVMC Park and Amphitheater (0630-1300) NOTE: State Championships on 12 Dec.

13 Nov — NOTE: NEW DATE. Annual Marine Corps Ball at Space Coast Convention Center, Cape Canaveral 1700-2200 sponsored by Brevard Marine Corps League Chapter 513. Ceremony, dinner, silent auction, tradition, dancing and fun. Contact: mclbrevard513@gmail.com to sign up, pay and for more information. Tickets $60 each.

14 Nov — The Support Committee at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery (501(c)3) will be having their annual Fall Fundraiser on November 14 at American Legion Post 1 in Titusville. Beginning at 5:30, dinner tickets are available at $25 per person; a 50/50 raffle and many raffle items will be available in a silent auction. With a DJ, the evening will be fun, tasty and entertaining while supporting the efforts to enhance ceremonies and education about Cape Canaveral National Cemetery For reservations and more information: saavik31324@yahoo.com

DECEMBER

05 Dec — Annual Merritt Island Grand Illumination sponsored by CAMI and BVMC 1500- 2000 at BVMC Amphitheater Park and Plaza. More details in August.

11-12 Dec— 2026 Superintendent’s Cup Brevard County JROTC Air Rifle Championships at Palm Bay jr/Sr Magnet High School Shooting Range Building 0800-1700 each day. This event is a qualifier for State Championships.

12 Dec —5th Annual Space Force T-minus 10 Miler Run at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. 0700-1100. This is a USSF Heritage Event which is open to the public and thus gives a rare glimpse into the historic area with run past 4 old launch sites. Runners and dozens of volunteers and sponsors needed. Learn more and register at https://runspaceforce.com

19 Dec. — Wreaths Across America Ceremony at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery and other Brevard locations. CCNC Friday, 18 Dec and Saturday, 19 Dec (1500-1730 and 0800 - 1030 for family and friends, 1030 - 1100 to lay wreaths and 1100-1130 for the Ceremony at the Flag Assembly Area. Contact waaccnc.org to donate wreaths and funds for the ceremony.

20 Dec — Wreaths Across America Pinecrest Cemetery Clearlake Rd, Cocoa 1400-1530). Special ceremony to honor veterans at that historic cemetery which includes the gravesite of Emory L Bennett, Korean War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient KIA 1952, a native of Brevard County. Organized by the Space Coast Chapter Military Order of Purple Heart and Their Voice of Hope. Contact Dorothy Walsh < dwalshusa@gmail.com > to contribute wreaths, volunteer or for more information.

2027

January

23 Jan — JROTC Drill Meet #1 in VM Park with amphitheater stage for awards (0630-1230).

30 Jan — JROTC Run and Shoot Event at Satellite HS 0800-1200. Includes Ruck Run and timed air rifle shooting for accuracy. -6-8 JROTC Teams expected for this unique Brevard County Event.

February

06 Feb — JROTC Drill Meet #2 in Park with amphitheater

stage for awards (0630-1230). Also planned to overlap with 2027 Medal of Honor Event. Look for more details in December 2026.

27 Feb. — JROTC Drill Meet #3 District Championships in Park with amphitheater stage for awards (0630-1230)

13 Mar. — BVMC/SAR Last Naval Battle of the American Revolution (0800-1200) Amphitheater and Concessions area. Details in Dec

16 Apr. — BVMC/BPS Space Coast Military Enlistment Ceremony. — Venue TBD (1500-1800)

02 May — BVMC/Back Brevard Heroes — Hero Fest Plaza and Park (0900-1500).

Please help us spread the word and advise of any new events.

Extended Interview: Air Force officer shot down in Iran on surviving behind enemy lines

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 20:05:43 GMT

Click Here for Extended Interview: Air Force officer shot down in Iran on surviving behind enemy lines

Chapter Member Elected to MOAA National Board of Directors

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 21:07:09 GMT

Former Cape Canaveral Chapter President Colonel Stephen (Steve) J. Bond, USA (Ret.), has been elected to the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) National Board of Directors for a six-year term. He will be inducted onto the board at MOAA’s annual meeting on October 22 ^nd in Alexandria, Virginia.

MOAA is the nation’s largest military officer association representing more than 350,000 active duty, National Guard, Reserve, retired, and former officers and surviving spouses from all eight uniformed services. As a member of MOAA’s national governing body, Bond will help direct the strategic governance and oversight in support of the association’s mission, and shape strategies to strengthen our national defense, protect earned benefits of all veterans, and enhance the value MOAA provides to its members and their families.

A MOAA member for more than 25 years, Bond has held numerous leadership positions at the chapter and state levels. With the Cape Canaveral Chapter--MOAA’s largest--he has served in leadership roles including as President, Speakers Bureau Chair, Army Liaison, and editor of the chapter’s bi-weekly Five Things e-newsletter. He is also a recipient of the Chapter’s most prestigious award, the Distinguished Service Award. He is currently the Immediate Past President and State Membership Chair for the MOAA Florida Council of Chapters. As Council President, he led Florida’s 36 chapters and more than 30,000 MOAA members in the state.

A 29-year U.S. Army veteran, Bond served as an Infantry and Military Intelligence officer in Airborne, Infantry, Intelligence, and Special Operations assignments throughout the United States and overseas in Italy, Germany, and Japan. His military service included participation in Operations Just Cause in Panama, Desert Shield/Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia, and Uphold Democracy in Haiti. He is a Master Parachutist, Ranger qualified, and a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and the Army War College.

Following his military retirement, Bond served in the U.S. Government Senior Executive Service (SES) as a Transition Team Director in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2008-2009 and has also held senior management positions in the aerospace-defense industry and in other non-profit organizations.

Bond’s election to the National Board is an honor for him personally and a reflection of the leadership and commitment of the Cape Canaveral Chapter. His experience at the chapter and state levels will provide an important perspective as he joins the MOAA’s national leadership and works to advance the organization’s mission on behalf of the uniformed services community.

“Never Stop Serving” ®

Patriot Day--Remembering September 11th, 2001

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 17:34:07 GMT

Patriot Day is Friday, September 11 ^th , and communities throughout Brevard County will gather to remember and honor the nearly 3,000 Americans who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks 25 years ago on September 11 ^th , 2001, as well as the first responders, military members, families, and others affected by the attacks and the ensuing Global War on Terror. Several local commemorative events are planned:

City of Rockledge Remembering 9/11 Ceremony — Thursday, September 10 ^th : The City of Rockledge will hold its “Remembering 9/11 Ceremony” from 6-8 PM at Rockledge City Hall, 1600 Huntington Lane. The ceremony will feature musical tributes, guest speakers, and a wreath-laying ceremony honoring the victims, first responders, military members, and families impacted by the attacks. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 321-221-7540.
Brevard Veterans Memorial Center 25th Anniversary Commemoration — Friday, September 11 ^th : The Brevard Veterans Memorial Center (BVMC) will hold its 25 ^th Annual Commemoration of September 11 ^th , 2001, from 6-7:30 PM at the BVMC Amphitheater, 400 S. Sykes Creek Parkway, Merritt Island. The event will remember those killed in the attacks, the first responders subsequently affected by occupational toxins, the patriots who went to war in defense of our nation, and the families who shared their sacrifice. It is free and open to the public. For more information, call 321-453-1776.
Palm Bay Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony — Friday, September 11 ^th :
A Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony will be held at 8:30 AM at Palm Bay City Hall, 120 Malabar Road, Palm Bay. The ceremony will honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the heroes who emerged on September 11 ^th , 2001. Guest speakers will share remarks and personal reflections on the events and their lasting impact. It is free and open to the public. For more information, call 321-952-3443.
The Avenue Viera World Trade Center Memorial — Friday, September 11 ^th :
The Avenue Viera invites the community to visit its 9/11 World Trade Center Memorial from 10 AM to 7 PM. The memorial, located across from AMC Theaters at 2261 Town Center Avenue in Melbourne, includes remnants of the World Trade Center. Visitors are invited to pay their respects to those lost at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Flowers and flags will be available for visitors to leave at the memorial or take home in memory of the fallen. For more information, call 321-634-5390.

We encourage our members and the community to take an opportunity to honor those who were lost, remember the courage of those who responded, and recognize the service and sacrifice of the generations of Americans who followed.

Army Echoes - The official newsletter for Retired Soldiers, Surviving Spouses & Families

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 22:04:10 GMT

Army Echoes is the U.S. Army's official newsletter for retired Soldiers, surviving spouses, and their families. It provides timely information on military retirement benefits, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) updates, TRICARE and Medicare changes, VA benefits, DFAS pay matters, legislative and policy changes, and other programs affecting the retired military community. Its purpose is to help retirees and survivors stay informed, maintain access to earned benefits, and remain connected to the Army family. CLICK HERE for the latest edition.

Typical topics include:

Retirement pay and COLA updates
Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) information
TRICARE and healthcare changes
VA benefits and survivor programs
Retiree Appreciation Days (RADs)
Military community news and resources
Guidance for surviving spouses and families

As of 2026, Army Echoes is transitioning to primarily digital distribution, with notifications sent through the retiree's DFAS myPay email account.

Call for Volunteers and Observers: BNOVLB Service at CCNC 0900-1000 on Wed, 30 Sep 2026

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 19:48:10 GMT

Dear BNOVLB Supporters,

As we honor all veterans, including those who have no family members to support therm at their end of life, pleased to report there will be another Brevard No One Veteran Left Behind (BNOVLB) Service at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery on 30 September 0900-1000 hours. This will be our fourth such service since 2023, following several years working with MIAP. Remember that CCNC supports five counties, so not all the honorees are from Brevard County. Special appreciation to Tom Fitzgerald and his caisson as well to Joye Eiker and Sara Breuilly for being our case managers and working with VA to confirm eligibility. Thanks so much to CCNC/NCA Director Cindy Van Bibber and her staff for their support and setting up this next service. The staff will also read the names of many veterans who had no family present when they were laid to rest in the past year. We all will also bear witness to their service. Thanks to the Cape Canaveral Ladies and the CCNC staff, they were not buried alone.

Please consider volunteering for one of the positions below, or just attending as witnesses, as we make sure another 20 veterans and spouses receive the honors they deserve for their final resting place. Some of our veterans have been left on funeral home shelves for decades, but we can then confirm they were not forgotten:

A. Urn Bearer

B. Flag Bearer (for Veterans)

C. Flower Bearer (For spouses/dependents)

D. Parking Support

E. Information and Sign In table

F. Other Support Roles, including placing urns on caisson, etc.

We hope to have several alternates for the roles above in case of illness, etc. We also hope to match our record high for a past service with 180 in attendance. It is a special event you will not forget.

The service will take place at a Committal Shelter, likely No 2 on the east side of the admin building. Parking will be available with direction from CCNC Staff. Please arrive by 0830 to sign in, confirm roles, pick up white gloves, etc.

To Volunteer for a Role above, email only LaRue Fleming and myself no later than 20 Sep. We can also answer questions you may have. Please DO NOT Respond ALL.

LaRue Fleming < laruefleming1@yahoo.com >

Donn Weaver < donnweaver2020@gmail.com >

Please also spread the word to your veteran organizations and friends. Details are also included in the BVMC Vet Events Calendar sent out earlier this week.

Hope you are all looking forward to the Fall and all the veteran related events it brings. Good that the BNOVLB Service will be one of them.

Warm Regards,

CPT Donn A. Weaver USA (Former)

President, MOAACC Good Deeds Foundation

BNOVLB Coordinator

757-871-6576

MOAACC Celebrates 2026 Scholarship Recipients

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 23:40:23 GMT

The MOAACC Scholarship Corporation proudly recognized its 2026 scholarship recipients during the annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon held on July 21 at Colony Hall, Indian River Colony Club.

This year, twelve outstanding students were each awarded a $7,000 scholarship, representing a total investment of $84,000 in their continued education. The recipients were selected from 28 completed applications following a highly competitive and thoughtful review process.

Nine of the twelve recipients attended the luncheon in person, accompanied by family members and friends. For the three recipients unable to attend, a parent or family representative proudly accepted the scholarship on their behalf. It was an inspiring event that provided members an opportunity to meet these exceptional young scholars, hear about their accomplishments, and congratulate them as they continue their academic journeys.

Led by Vice Admiral Don Hagen, USN Retired, the awards ceremony was outstanding, as always. Special thanks are extended to Dan Levy, Brent Baysinger, Mike Yaeger, Arnold Lim, and the entire Scholarship Selection Committee and Scholarship Corporation team for their dedication and hard work in making another scholarship year such a tremendous success.

During the luncheon, Sam Ginsburg was also recognized for his generous and sustained contributions to the MOAACC Scholarship Corporation over the past several years. Sam, thank you for all you have done—and continue to do—to support the education and future success of our military families.

Since its founding in 1984, the MOAACC Scholarship Corporation has awarded more than $1.15 million in scholarships to 339 students attending 86 colleges and universities nationwide. This year’s luncheon was another proud example of MOAACC’s enduring commitment to service, education, and the next generation.

DFAS Retiree Newsletter

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:16:20 GMT

DFAS Monthly Retiree Newsletter

The DFAS Retiree Newsletter provides helpful updates for military retirees, annuitants, surviving spouses, and family members on topics such as retired pay, Survivor Benefit Plan information, tax reminders, myPay account management, forms, and other retiree-related news. DFAS updates this page periodically, and the same link will continue to provide access to the most current newsletter and prior editions. Members are encouraged to review the newsletter regularly to stay informed about important pay, benefit, and account updates.

Click here for the current DFAS Retiree Newsletter.

Intercom Photo and Article Submission Rules

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:45:00 GMT

Call for Articles for the Intercom :

The Military Officers Association of America Cape Canaveral Chapter ( MOAACC ) an affiliate of the national Military Officers Association of America invites you to submit an article for publication in our monthly magazine “Intercom”. We encourage you to submit your experiences and/or news that you would like to share with your fellow officers no later than 15th of each month .

*********************************************

INTERCOM Photo & Article Submission Rules

PHOTOS:

Photos must be in “High Resolution” in .jpg format and sent as an “ Attachment ”
When sending photos, select “actual size” on computer or cell phone and send as “A ttachment ”
Submit only one photo per article, or more if absolutely necessary
All photos must have “captions” of who, what, when, where and why

ARTICLES :

Articles must be in Microsoft “Word” format. PDF NOT ACCEPTED
LIMIT: One article per email, not more than 375 words. Each Article must include Author Name & Rank

DEADLINES & SUBMISSION EMAIL:

Photos & Articles are DUE NO LATER THAN the 15th of each month or sooner . Please send ALL submissions to ONLY the following: Intercom@moaacc.org

INTERCOM PUBLICATION:

THE INTERCOM is published 12 times annually by the Cape Canaveral Chapter, Inc. (MOAACC), an affiliate of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Alexandria, VA
Contents of the Intercom articles are opinions solely of the authors and do not express the policy or official views of MOAA or the Cape Canaveral Chapter (MOAACC)
The advertisements that appear in this publication do not reflect an endorsement by MOAA or by MOAACC

Comments and suggestion are welcome. Contact EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Intercom@moaacc.org

PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING COMMITTEES

INTERCOM:

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: John Franco

ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Vacant

LAYOUT/GRAPHICS: Jeremiah Zeleny

PRESS RELEASES & MEDIA LIAISON: Vacant

DISTRIBUTION: Vacant

WEB LINK AND ELECTRONIC DISTRO: Mike Schroeder

PHOTOGRAPHERS: EVERYONE IS A PHOTOGRAPHER

ADVERTISING: Vacant

Other Media Related Roles :

ADVERTISERS/SPONSORS: Donn Weaver, Mike Schroeder, Steve Bond

WEBMASTER: Mike Schroeder

FIVE THINGS: Steve Bond

FACEBOOK: Larry Wright

MOAA/Florida Council of Chapters Liaison: John Franco

MOAACC Honor Students With Service Academy Appointments or ROTC Scholarships 2026

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 22:33:36 GMT

By Jim DesJardin, LTC, USA (Ret), Chairman, MOAACC Student Affairs

At our May luncheon, the MOAACC’s Student Affairs Committee had the honor of hosting and recognizing fourteen outstanding young men and women who have earned appointments to our nation’s Military Academies or received Senior ROTC scholarships. Their achievements reflect exceptional academic performance, leadership ability, physical fitness, and a strong commitment to serving our nation, their schools and their communities.

These students exemplify the Scholar-Athlete-Leader (SAL) model emphasized by our Military Academies and Senior ROTC programs. Collectively, they have excelled in the classroom—many maintaining GPAs of 4.0 or higher—while also demonstrating athletic excellence through varsity sports participation, team captaincies, and individual athletic accomplishments. Most importantly, they have shown the character and leadership potential required for one of the most demanding and honorable professions in our nation: military service.

The luncheon was well attended by community leaders, including Superintendent Dr. Rendell, members of the School Board, parents and friends of the honorees, and many MOAACC members. Each student received an MOAACC Certificate of Excellence and an MOAACC Challenge Coin. The presentations were made by Chapter President Rosa Reich, Superintendent Dr. Rendell, and Donn Weaver, President of Good Deeds.

The following students were honored:

Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School – Rylan Reyes, appointment to the United States Air Force Academy
Eau Gallie High School – Thomas Good, appointment to the United States Air Force Academy; T’Mari Bowe, appointment to the United States Air Force Academy
Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School – Preston Ratliff, Senior ROTC Scholarship to the University of Miami
Melbourne Central Catholic High School – Joseph Colombo, appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point
Merritt Island High School – Nathan Oglesby, Senior ROTC Scholarship to Auburn University; Garrett Hall, Senior ROTC Scholarship to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; Haley Underwood, Senior ROTC Scholarship to Georgia Military College; Ryan Gregorie, Senior ROTC Scholarship to the University of South Florida
Rockledge High School – Ausha Daniels, Senior ROTC Scholarship to Georgia Military College
Satellite High School – Thor Kopenkoskey, appointment to the United States Air Force Academy
Viera High School – Luke Rodgers, Senior Air Force ROTC Scholarship to Purdue University
West Shore Jr./Sr. High School – Pleasant Lewis, Senior ROTC Scholarship to the University of South Florida; Jacob Fine, appointment to the United States Naval Academy Preparatory School

These students are entering a profession pursued by fewer than one percent of their peers nationwide. Their accomplishments demonstrate what can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to service. MOAACC proudly congratulates each of these future leaders and wishes them continued success as they begin their journeys of service to our nation.

MOAACC Honor Students With Service Academy Appointments or ROTC Scholarships 2026

Wed, 20 May 2026 15:02:00 GMT

The following students were honored:

Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School – Rylan Reyes, appointment to the United States Air Force Academy
Eau Gallie High School – Thomas Good, appointment to the United States Air Force Academy; T’Mari Bowe, appointment to the United States Air Force Academy
Edgewood Jr./Sr. High School – Preston Ratliff, Senior ROTC Scholarship to the University of Miami
Melbourne Central Catholic High School – Joseph Colombo, appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point
Merritt Island High School – Nathan Oglesby, Senior ROTC Scholarship to Auburn University; Garrett Hall, Senior ROTC Scholarship to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; Haley Underwood, Senior ROTC Scholarship to Georgia Military College; Ryan Gregorie, Senior ROTC Scholarship to the University of South Florida
Rockledge High School – Ausha Daniels, Senior ROTC Scholarship to Georgia Military College
Satellite High School – Thor Kopenkoskey, appointment to the United States Air Force Academy
Viera High School – Luke Rodgers, Senior Air Force ROTC Scholarship to Purdue University
West Shore Jr./Sr. High School – Pleasant Lewis, Senior ROTC Scholarship to the University of South Florida; Jacob Fine, appointment to the United States Naval Academy Preparatory School

05/19/2026

Gold Bars Earned Seven Florida Tech Cadets Commissioned as Army Officers

Tue, 12 May 2026 22:36:00 GMT

Gold Bars Earned: Seven Florida Tech Cadets Commissioned as Army Officers

By Colonel Steve Bond (USA-Ret), MOAACC Army LNO

The Florida Institute of Technology Army ROTC Panther Battalion commissioned seven new Army Second Lieutenants during its spring commissioning ceremony held Friday, May 8, in the Hartley Room of the Student Union on the Florida Tech campus. Family members, friends, ROTC instructors, cadets, and community supporters gathered to witness the time-honored tradition as the cadets took the oath of office and pinned on the “gold bars” of a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. The ceremony included remarks and congratulations from Florida Tech President Dr. John Nicklow and guest speaker Brigadier General Mark A. Holler, USA (Ret.), former Deputy Commanding General for Operations, Eighth U.S. Army.

In addition to completing the commissioning requirements, each of the new officers graduated from Florida Tech during the university’s May commencement ceremonies, earning bachelor’s degrees in a variety of academic disciplines.

The newly commissioned officers — all new members of the Cape Canaveral Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAACC) — are:

• 2LT William Leonard – After enlisting in the Army following high school, Leonard was selected for the Army’s Green to Gold program at Florida Tech. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities with a concentration in History and was commissioned as an active-duty officer in the Chemical Corps.

• 2LT Blair Watson – A 2022 graduate of Merritt Island High School, Watson earned a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology and was commissioned into the U.S. Army Reserve as a Military Police officer.

• 2LT Brooklyn Stellato – A 2022 graduate of Westshore Jr./Sr. High School, Stellato served as Panther Battalion Commander and held several other leadership positions during her ROTC career. She also completed both the Army Airborne and Air Assault Schools. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science and an Associate of Arts degree in Air Traffic Control and was commissioned as an active-duty Field Artillery officer.

• 2LT Gus Guerrero – Originally from New Jersey, Guerrero earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science and was commissioned into the Army National Guard as an Infantry officer.

• 2LT Kenton Bailey – A graduate of Satellite High School, Bailey completed the Army Air Assault School while attending Florida Tech. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science and was commissioned as an active-duty Military Intelligence officer.

• 2LT Kerrigan Burns – Burns graduated from high school at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science and was commissioned as an active-duty officer in the Military Police Corps.

• 2LT Matt Abell – A 2022 graduate of Ramstein High School in Germany, Abell completed the Army Air Assault School during his time at Florida Tech. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and was commissioned as an active-duty Military Intelligence officer with a branch detail to Infantry.

The new officers also received congratulations from LTC Rob Stillings, Professor of Military Science at Florida Tech. This marked LTC Stillings’ final commissioning ceremony at Florida Tech before his reassignment to Fort Leavenworth, KS later this summer.

The MOAA Cape Canaveral Chapter participated in the ceremony by presenting each new lieutenant with a ceremonial “Gold Bar” commissioning set along with membership in both MOAA and the Cape Canaveral Chapter. The gold bars used during the ceremony had been displayed throughout the year in the ROTC building in a special display case, funded by the MOAACC Good Deeds Foundation. Colonel Steve Bond, USA (Ret.), past president of the Cape Canaveral Chapter, presented the Gold Bar sets and congratulated the new officers as they begin their careers and leadership in the United States Army.

Photo Caption: Commissioning Ceremony for New Army 2 ^nd Lieutenants at the Florida Tech Commissioning Ceremony on May 8 ^th . Pictured left to right are LTC Hans Hunt, USA (Ret.), MOAACC First Vice President; 2LT Kerrigan Burns; 2LT Blair Watson; 2LT Matt Abell; 2LT Gus Guerrero; Florida Tech President Dr. John Nicklow; 2LT Brooklyn Stellato; LTC Rob Stillings, Professor of Military Science; 2LT Kenton Bailey; 2LT William Leonard; guest speaker BG Mark A. Holler, USA (Ret.); and COL Steve Bond, USA (Ret.), MOAACC.

05/13/2026

Grassroots Advocacy in Action

Tue, 12 May 2026 22:26:00 GMT

MOAA’s signature legislative effort, Advocacy in Action (AiA) , once again highlighted the power of coordinated advocacy—with the Cape Canaveral Chapter at the forefront! This year, Florida combined in-person engagement on Capitol Hill with a strong statewide virtual network, proving effective advocacy is about amplifying voices everywhere.

On April 15, 160 MOAA members visited nearly 300 congressional offices, meeting lawmakers and staff in every setting imaginable. Despite record heat in Washington, the momentum remained strong. As MOAA President and CEO Lt. Gen. Brian T. Kelly, USAF (Ret), noted, AiA is an “energy-adding event” that showcases the strength of grassroots advocacy.

Team Florida was led by Florida Council President and MOAACC member, COL Steve Bond, USA (Ret) and represented in Washington by six delegates conducting 21 congressional meetings. Back home, members amplified those efforts with nearly 5,000 messages to lawmakers—led by the Cape Canaveral Chapter as the top contributor. Together, this unified approach ensured a clear message: protect the earned benefits of service members, veterans, families, and survivors. This year’s AiA focus centered on four bipartisan priorities:

The Major Richard Star Act
The Shutdown Fairness Act
The GUARD VA Benefits Act
The Military CARE Act

Advocacy doesn’t begin or end in Washington—it starts locally with each of us. Florida continues to set the standard, showing what’s possible when members engage at every level. The Cape Canaveral Chapter leads MOAA in registered advocates, yet only about 20% of our members are signed up. We can—and must—do better. If you’ve already taken action, thank you. If not, now is the time. Visit https://moaa.quorum.us/ to get involved. Your voice matters. Advocacy is MOAA’s top mission—and one of the most powerful ways we live our promise to Never Stop Serving .

From left, Tony LaVecchia-Florida Council VP, Aric Raus-MOAA Board Member, Pat Green-Council Surviving Spouse Liaison, Niche Patxot-Council Area VP, Steve Bond-Council President and MOAACC member, and Joe Gollasch-MOAA Virtual Council Pres.

Meeting on 15 April with FL08 Congressman Mike Haradopolos (C), with Aric Raus (L) and Steve Bond (R).

MOAA ‘Heat Map’ of AiA messages sent. Florida sent more messages than any other state—nearly 5,000--with Cape Canaveral Chapter leading the way!

05/12/2026

Brevard Veterans History Project

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 22:47:00 GMT

Space Coast Honor Flight Welcome Home Celebration Help Welcome Our Heroes

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:37:00 GMT

Dav Chapter 32 members and their family are invited to gather at Melbourne Orlando International Airport (1 Air Terminal Parkway, Melbourne, FL) for the next Space Coast Honor Flight Welcome Home Celebration, where we come together to honor local veterans returning from their unforgettable day in Washington D.C. , visiting the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice.

The Welcome Home Celebration is a free community event where supporters fill the airport terminal with cheers, flags, and gratitude as veterans make their way along Walk of Honor. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and enjoy the Red, White & YOU Pre-Flight Party, featuring live bands, popular food trucks, beer (21+) from Intracoastal Brewing Company, and plenty of patriotic energy. Admission and parking are free.

What to Expect

8:00 p.m. — Doors open
8:30 p.m. — Red, White & YOU Pre-Flight Party with live music, food trucks, and beer
9:34 p.m. — Scheduled flight arrival*
10:00 p.m. — Veterans Walk of Honor

There are a total five honor flights scheduled for 2026. Each Welcome Home Celebration features a different local headliner band:

April 11 — Panama
May 9 — Andrew Rickman & The No Pressure Band
September 13 — The Last Call Band
October 10 — Hot Pink
November 8 — Phoenix

Community members are encouraged to attend any or all five celebrations and give these deserving veterans a welcome home they’ll never forget.

For more information and event details, please visit MLBair.com/honorflight .

03/19/2026

MOAACC member named Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine Student of the Year

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 19:02:00 GMT

MOAACC member named Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine Student of the Year

The Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine Florida (BCOM Florida) named Lillian McBee, a chapter member and former U.S. Navy lieutenant, as the Student Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) of the Year. The award recognizes exceptional leadership, service, and professionalism among osteopathic medical students.

Lillian is currently enrolled at BCOM Florida’s Melbourne campus through the Navy Health Services Collegiate Program (HSCP), a scholarship program that provides financial support to students pursuing healthcare careers in exchange for future service as commissioned officers in Navy Medicine. Upon graduation, she will return to active duty as a Navy physician. BCOM Florida’s Melbourne campus currently has 13 military students preparing for careers as military physicians.

The Student DO of the Year distinction is awarded to a student who demonstrates dedication beyond the expectations of the average osteopathic medical student. Lillian was nominated by her peers and selected by an awards committee from a class of approximately 95 students. Lillian was recognized for her leadership, commitment to community service, and high standards of professionalism.

As BCOM Florida’s Student DO of the Year, Lillian now advances for consideration as the National Student DO of the Year Award. The national honor is presented by the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents (COSGP), a council of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM).

Lillian is a native of Miami. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human biology from Stanford University. She earned her commission as a Navy Surface Warfare Officer through the Reserve Officer Training Corps at the University of California, Berkeley.

Photo Caption: Lillian McBee, Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine Florida (BCOM Florida) Student Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) of the Year.

Photo Caption: CAPT Steve Cusick (USN, RET) (L), Chapter President and COL Steve Bond (USA, RET) (R) Florida Council President congratulate Lillian at the Burrell College of Medicine.

01/10/2026

MOAACC 2026 Leadership Nominations

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 14:37:00 GMT

September 14, 2025

MEMORANDUM FOR MOAACC President

From: MOAACC Nominating Committee

Subject: Slate of Nominees

1. The MOAACC Nominating Committee nominates the following chapter members to lead MOAACC in 2026.

Officers

President Capt Rosa Reich, USAF (Fmr)

1 ^st Vice President LTC Hans Hunt, USA (Ret)

2 ^nd Vice President CW4 Jose Prieto, USA (Ret)

Secretary CDR Eric Gardner, USN (Ret)

Asst Secretary CAPT Arnold Lim, USNR (Ret)

Treasurer COL Michael Schroeder, USA (Ret)

Asst Treasurer LTC William Vanasse, USA (Ret)

Master-At-Arms Lt Col Michael Notley, USAF (Ret)

Asst Master-At-Arms CPT Larry Wright, USA (Fmr)

Directors

CY 2026

CAPT Stephen, Cusick, USN (Ret): Past President

Mrs. Ellie Joy: Surviving Spouse

Col John Franco, USAF (Ret)

CPT Larry Wright, USA (Fmr): 1 Yr Term

CY 2026-2027

LTC David Kobey, USA (Ret)

CDR Kenneth Lowe, USN (Ret)

Col Denny Tharp, USAF (Ret)

2. All nominees are MOAA members. Pending board approval, this slate of candidates will be presented to the General Membership at the Annual Business Meeting

18 November.

Col Richard A. Kniseley, USAF Ret

Nomination Committee Chair.

11/18/2025

The Intercom

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 21:56:00 GMT

The INTERCOM is the MOAACC monthly news magazine published since 1974. It has won many MOAA National Newsletter Awards most recently the 2024 Col Marvin J. Harris Communication Award. Since 2005 it has been available on our website as well as the printed version. It is filled with news, information and articles of interest to its members. CLICK HERE for The Intercom News Magazine archives.

We encourage articles from members personal history or newsworthy stories of interest to the readers of the newsletter. The deadline for articles is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. Early submissions are encouraged! THE EARLIER THE BETTER!!

COMMON GROUND The Intertwined History of IRCC and MOAACC

Sat, 15 Jun 2024 18:23:00 GMT

Long before the Indian River Colony Club (IRCC) was a gleam in the eyes of its founders, many of those same founders already belonged to a Chapter of The Retired Officers Association or TROA. That chapter was established on Patrick Air Force Base in 1958. Over the years the local TROA chapter grew to over 2500 members, and was renamed two decades ago as the Military Officers Association of America (which allows not only active, retired officers, and surviving spouses to join, but former officers as well) Cape Canaveral Chapter or “MOAACC”.

The MOAACC of today includes over 1230 members, almost 275 of whom are IRCC residents. Every month MOAACC delivers about 150 copies of THE INTERCOM newsletter to the uniform mailboxes in IRCC. MOAACC doesn’t exist just for current or former uniform wearing officer members. It includes dozens of IRCC residents who are Surviving Spouse Members and Spouses. MOAACC has a special responsibility to take care of surviving spouse members. The Chapter includes a Surviving Spouse Coordinator, a Survivor Assistance Team, and an Auxiliary Committee of surviving spouses and spouse members that supports many IRCC families each year with support, and to help them understand and ensure they receive the benefits afforded to veterans. MOAACC also works hard with more than 350,000 other MOAA members worldwide to foster Legislative Advocacy that protects the benefits and programs of active duty and retired military personnel and their families. Thereby, MOAACC is of direct benefit to many IRCC residents, MOAACC members or not.

Today the Cape Canaveral Chapter is the largest MOAA Chapter in the country and has won MOAA’s prestigious annual “Five Star Award for Excellence” 16 years in a row — in fact every year since the award began! Dozens of IRCC residents have always been active and key leaders in MOAACC, including one of IRCC’s key founders, Brig Gen Gordon “Bat” Masterson, USAF, ret. and two-time MOAACC President MG John Cleland, USA, ret, whose contributions to IRCC, MOAACC and the entire Community are legendary. There are many, many others who link IRCC and MOAACC. A MOAACC Past President, CAPT Robert Watts, USN-Ret, became the IRCC Board Chairman not long ago.

For five decades, as best as the historical records tell us, even after IRCC was opened, the TROA/MOAACC leadership focused on keeping the organizations separate. There was even a reference to keeping “A Chinese Wall” between the Chapter and IRCC, since the latter was commercial venture. PAFB remained the full home of MOAACC until 2015, although years earlier MOAACC began holding one Thursday Morning Breakfast Club (TMBC) meeting per month at the 19th Hole IRCC Golf Clubhouse. At first the MOAACC home base was the PAFB Golf Club House, with big events being held at the former Officers Club until it burned down when monthly luncheons and other formal events were shifted to the Tides Club.

Five years ago, when PAFB raised rates and reduced services to MOAACC, the Board contracted with IRCC to become the new MOAACC home base, thus broadening the relationship quietly begun while IRCC was being developed. The IRCC Golf Course became the home of three MOAACC Good Deeds Foundation Fund Raising Golf Tournaments and there have been hundreds of TMBC meetings and luncheons hosted at IRCC in those five years. Only COVID-19 temporarily halted the meetings. With MOAACC now holding virtual Board and TMBC meetings, almost every one includes a question “When can we go back home to IRCC and meet in person?”.

The common ground is firmly set and the IRCC—MOAACC relationship extends far beyond real estate. IRCC supports many veteran and others causes ranging from the Veterans Memorial Center, to the Space Coast Honor Flight, Wreaths Across America, Veterans History Project, student scholarships and other youth support, etc. MOAACC advertises IRCC in every publication, including THE INTERCOM monthly newsletter, and our bi-weekly e-Newsletter, as well as on our website. In turn MOAACC gets many new members each year from current and new residents of IRCC and appreciates the great hospitality and ambiance at reasonable prices given to us by the staff and management of IRCC.

For more information about MOAACC, please see their website at www.MOAACC.org.

— MOAACC members including Steve Bond, Larry Jackson, Robert Watts, and Donn Weaver contributed to this article.

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Photos with Captions:

COMMON GROUND: IRCC’s Colony Hall has hosted hundreds of MOAACC special events and luncheons over the years. IRCC residents, some not members or active in MOAACC, often come to hear Guest Speakers, learn about Current Events and enjoy dances or charity golf tournaments put on by MOAACC’s Good Deeds Foundation.

COMMON GROUND: Over the years many IRCC members have contributed to MOAACC 501c3 projects like the College/Grad School Scholarship program administered by MOAACC’s Scholarship Corporation (pictured here). In 2019, the Scholarship Corporation provided $35,000 to college students who are descendants of area veterans and active military. The Good Deeds Foundation supports Veterans in need; Active Duty Junior Enlisted causes; ROTC and JROTC Youth Programs and other special events and programs. Last year alone, GDF donated $50,000 to these groups. The MOAACC.ORG web site offers much more information and when IRCC residents check it out, they will see dozens of their neighbors active in MOAACC’s renowned Philanthropy Pillar.

COMMON GROUND: IRCC’s Foundation supports many special causes in the community — So does MOAACC!! Here the Good Deeds Foundation presents a grant to the Space Coast Honor Flight program, which has hosted dozens of IRCC residents and members over the years and to which many IRCC residents contribute.

06/15/2020