Aaron Bresnahan posted on December 01, 2010 00:09
December 2010 Navy
By Aaron Bresnahan
I’m pretty sure most of you know these phrases by heart, and you probably don’t need me to tell you who stated them either.
However, if we look closely at each of them, what message do you think the person was really trying to convey? Was he just trying to inspire his Sailors to stretch beyond breaking? Was he simply trying to build confidence to enter a pathway that appeared unknown or troubling? Was he simply trying to demoralize an enemy at close quarters? These common words intertwined into simple phrases can mean so much for many different people. With that in mind, will you join me in a brief journey?
If our words can inspire courage or instil fear, if our words can build up or break down, if our words can comfort or alienate, then what does it mean when we say nothing? What message do we convey to our shipmates, our colleagues, our friends, and our neighbors when we say nothing about the benefits of membership in AUSN?
What does it mean when we see new Sailors enter our Major Commands or our Reserve Centers with unanswered questions about their professional development, and we say nothing? I have heard so many Reservists thank AUSN for providing Professional Development Seminars and career tips in the magazine and on-line.
What does it mean when we see people being passed over for promotion and anxiously looking for advice on what to do, and we say nothing? I have heard multiple testimonials where people have truly benefitted from having record reviews.
What does it mean when we see people losing their civilian jobs during this financial crisis and desperately looking for ways to make ends meet, and we say nothing? We should encourage our affected friends and family members to speak with Navy recruiters. And for those already in the Reserve, AUSN regularly speaks about the ability to participate in TRICARE Reserve Select and SGLI, which are both affordable health and life insurance programs.
What does it mean when we see people concerned about transitioning from Active or Reserve service towards retirement, and we say nothing? AUSN has been a leader in educating members about retirement benefits and helping in their career transition.
What does it mean when someone is already retired and wants to stay in touch with current events and the many changes affecting our Navy, and we say nothing? Each month, AUSN conducts key interviews with Navy leadership and explores the impact of the latest Navy programs for personnel and acquisitions.
What does it mean when people are looking for a way to connect with like-minded colleagues, and we say nothing? AUSN has opportunities to serve and to be involved at both the national and local levels. Our chapter network provides an outlet for members to share experiences and to maintain relationships for a lifetime.
What does it mean when the basic investment in a yearly membership in AUSN is the equivalent of the price for one family dinner at a Ruby Tuesday’s or a TGI Friday’s, and we say nothing?
Most of you are reading this message today because someone took the time to tell you about our Association. Return the favor, give back, inspire others, and share your thoughts on why someone should join our Association today.