ausn: What's in a name?

 A name can symbolize many things. It can be a term of endearment; it can be a representation of what something stands for; or it can be a definition of a purpose.
In the days of old, names used to be given by parents to honor ancestors or immediate family members having a special meaning to the clan. Today, names are given to children or activities just because they have a nice ring to them or remind us of “a more preferred time.”
In my case, the name Aaron can mean “strength.” My parents told me that they thought long and hard about the names they would give me and my siblings. They didn’t want me to have just any name. They wanted a name with a special relevance and connotation.
Today, we are quite often discussing a name change for the Association. Quite a few people are very excited about the change. Many others have expressed reluctance. The most often cited reason for the reluctance is the special meaning associated with Naval Reserve Association (NRA). They have come to know and love NRA because of their emotional attachment to it. Some are reluctant because they are afraid a name change will mean a loss of identity or purpose for the organization; that somehow the Reserves will be forgotten. I can understand the points raised and can empathize with some of the arguments. However, I see a greater meaning to be gained by the proposed name change.
The Association of the United States Navy can imply a much greater vision and a much greater scope of mission.
However, more importantly, it reflects the new concept of the Total Naval Force. It reflects the idea that we are all part of One Navy.
Over the past several years, the Navy Reserve has gone through a significant transformation. No longer is the Reserve expected to be in place for strategic purposes; something to be called on when the bubble goes up or when the world goes to pot. Today’s Reserve Force is expected to function as an operational reserve, with some smaller elements acting as a strategic “deep reserve.” I, for one, have been recalled to Active Duty twice since 11 September. I have also been asked to spend more time on AT, ADTs and provide nonpay operational assistance to my Supported Commands. I know that many others Reservists have been asked to do more between drill weekends, to spend time away from families, and to be more integrated with the Active Force. We feel more full-time rather than part-time.
Therefore, I feel that now is the time to change the name of our Association to reflect the broader scope of support the Reserve community is contributing to the Total Force. I also feel that, by changing the name now, we are in a much better position to take a leadership role. Reserve Affairs needs to have greater visibility and to be understood better by our Active Duty counterparts. We can do it!
The name Association of the United States Navy (AUSN) can mean many things to different people. However, the one common theme that everyone should embrace is that AUSN is dedicated to promoting the needs of the Navy and recognizing that the Reserves are essential to maintaining the most capable Total Force.