Association of Naval Services Officers

A 501c3 nonprofit supporting Latinos/Hispanics of all ranks in the U.S. Sea Services!

Public Affairs Officer

November 2022 Message and Season’s Greetings

En Familia

Just as lights, decorations, parties, and special meals highlight the holiday season, the recent Western Regional Symposium (WRS) became an unforgettable energizing experience for the ANSO family. With in-person and virtual options for participants, WRS offered high-value presenters and multiple opportunities for professional networking. Mentoring sessions and panels at all levels of the enlisted and officer ranks allowed for reflection, growth, and re-commitment among participants from all Sea Services. WRS was a unique experience for many in attendance, particularly among those joining for the first time. 

During the 2022 WRS, many participants and presenters shared personal stories of resilience and strength. These narratives were, for many, the most meaningful part of the event. The subjective nature of these narratives transcended through the experiences of connection generated by the spoken word. As Brene Brown has said, “maybe stories are just data with a soul.”

These shared narratives seem to have served the group in three different ways:

  • Encouragement: The experience of sharing a personal story is a journey of vulnerability. Certain areas of our past may come through that we are not proud of or may not want to reveal in public. Sharing about ourselves is to embrace those parts of our stories for what they are. By engaging in this process of open vulnerability, courage shines forth. Every step in this journey of self-revelation becomes an opportunity to embolden others to own and share their narratives finding value, meaning, and purpose in them. 
  • Empowerment: The phenomenological character of personal narratives speaks of the ups and downs that led to this time and place. The rich details of travels, people, opportunities, challenges, tears, and laughs make it what it is. At times, thoughts of not being good enough (impostor syndrome) or perceptions that no one else understands may reduce the desire to speak up. The process of telling our story is an exercise in empowerment, confronting the fallacy of empty doubts and taking steps forward with renewed strength. “Si se puede!” recovers its meaning.
  • Empathy: The most effective way to consider the impact of sharing a personal narrative with an audience is by noticing how the story creates connections. A smile, a nod, a tear, or another emotional response amplifies the universal meaning of shared stories. Spoken narratives unify the speaker and audience through shared empathic interactions and active listening. For many, this is an opportunity -or only opportunity in a while- to celebrate belonging and acceptance.

As the holidays approach, share your story. Whether your tradition is to celebrate Hanukkah, Yule, Kwanzaa, Christmas, or just the end of the year with special family rituals, food, or music, reach out and pull from your memory what makes this time of the year so meaningful. Share your story with those close to you or take advantage of the opportunities provided by ANSO to share your narratives through social media. Sharing your story has immeasurable power. Give it a try today.

ANSO Familia, build new memories with your loved ones! Enjoy this extraordinary time of the year. May your season be filled with joy, peace, and hope, a blessing to you and your family.

Check out our Season’s Greetings playlist on our YouTube Channel where members share their fondest holiday memories

Happy Thanksgiving 2022

ANSO Familia,

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. ANSO is thankful to have you with us, for all you do for our Sea Services, and the mentorship you bring to our communities. May you continue to be blessed, and your days filled with joy. For those who are blessed to be home today, please enjoy a much deserved holiday with friends and family. For those who are deployed, away from your loved ones, protecting us from afar, and carrying out our Nation’s tasking, we thank you. You remain in our hearts and minds. We who have been there before know what it is like to be away from home, and to miss our families. You are also missed. We pray for your safe return, and remain grateful for your sacrifices.

God bless.

October 2022 Message

En Familia

The last few months have been a continuous celebration of the Sea Services’ birthdays. Starting with the Coast Guard’s 232nd birthday celebration on 4 August, to the 247th birthday of the U.S. Navy on 13 October, and now the celebration of the 247th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps on 10 November. We take time to celebrate these special occasions because these pauses to wear our best uniforms, participate in formal galas, partake in cake cuttings, enjoy the suck of a great run, or build camaraderie with our peers is what shape our traditions by providing meaning and purpose to our cause.

While sharing common values in the intersection of our missions, each branch intentionally reaffirms a sense of direction, pride, and belonging during these birthday celebrations. Still, it is in each member to embrace the invitation and, more so, in each one of us to inspire our peers to connect with the reason that brought us to service. Even if the reasons that brought someone into the service were egocentric, most Service Members during their time in uniform have had a moment in which sacrifice makes sense. Whether this is because of family, peers, honor, respect, or just confidence, the reason to serve that gives meaning to all we do comes alive and leads to transcendence.

As recipients of the appreciation and gratitude of our nation on Veterans Day, this is a perfect time to connect with the reason to serve for whatever term we wore or are still wearing the uniform. The smile on the face, the gut feeling deep inside, the tear or almost emotional outburst that connects with memories, are part of the range of reactions during ceremonies, special meals, or a “thank you for your service” echoes in our ears. Today on Veterans Day, the combat spirit is revived, sacrifices re-framed, allowing our unique narratives to place us back to the first day we stood ready to serve.

We celebrate what Veterans and military families have done to support and defend our constitution, flag, and citizens. Today, as we hear someone expressing their appreciation or the sound of our Star-Spangled Banner, may we connect with the legacy of military service of those who have served, are currently serving, or are preparing to join our fight with honor. We join our ANSO members, partners, and leaders to wish you a Happy Veterans Day and thank you for your dedicated service to our nation!

The VA 2022 National Veterans Day Poster Contest Winner – https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/

Happy 247th United States Marine Corps Birthday!!

We want to wish a happy 247th United States Marine Corps birthday to all our brothers and sisters who serve, and who have served, in the Marine Corps. Semper Fidelis!

Check out all the inspirational stories shared in our USMC Corner playlist of our YouTube channel.

ANSO Fundraising Program Launch

As part of ANSO’s strategic plan, we have launched a fundraising program to advance our mission through improved regional symposiums, the ANSO/CTR Factor Non-Profit Alliance Joint Leadership Institute, and the advancement of grass-root community outreach initiatives.

Each one of our five pillars is essential to our mission success, but community outreach can arguably be considered the most meaningful. Through our community initiatives, we (each ANSO member) share our experiences, educate both parents and young men and women on the opportunities available in the military, and mentor those who aspire to become the future leaders of our sea services.

Since 1981, ANSO has shaped the path of some of our highest ranking leaders serving today, and those leaders continue to be part of ANSO, but there is still much work to be done. ANSO members must navigate key assignments and professional development milestones to achieve personal and professional goals, and successfully compete for promotions and opportunities. The ANSO network can play a vital role in guiding those career decisions.

So, be a part of a future sea service leader’s journey and donate TODAY!

Please share the fundraising program with your personal and professional networks.

You can donate through our fundraising page or text “donate” to 202-831-9777.

Your donation is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. You will receive your tax receipt via email once the donation is processed.

Thank you for your continued support, and adelante con ANSO!!

August 2022 Message

Summer’s end was a time to remember the Marines and Sailors who gave their lives during the evacuation of Afghans and Americans from Kabul last year. During an infamous attack, while American forces assisted in humanitarian efforts, 13 U.S. Service members and almost 200 locals perished. Many others were severely injured. A year later, we still remember their sacrifice and commitment to the mission with honor and total dedication. 

These selfless acts of service are part of the framework that brings new meaning to the 9-11 remembrance. More than two decades after terrorists crushed symbols of the American spirit, the grief over the close to 3,000 souls lost during the attacks and the dedication of the First Responders are part of the collective soul of America. These heroes have inspired many to transform their communities through service. Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance are concrete ways to redefine this response and multiply their efforts.

So many U.S. Service Members embraced this call to service in response to 9-11. The sweat and blood of those who served to defend freedom and democracy during the Global War on Terror inspire us to do our part. Our ANSO familia inspires Latinos to join our Sea Services and wear the uniform proudly while maintaining the highest professional standards and leadership. Each can do our part in mentoring, coaching, or sponsoring Latinos and underrepresented groups in our Armed Forces. 

Another way of promoting service is by getting involved in our local areas and spreading seeds of benevolence. Small acts make a big difference. One way to do this is by connecting with 9/11 Day (https://911day.org/), an organization behind the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. Their mission “is to take back the day, transform the anniversary of 9/11 into a national day of doing good, and in the process rekindle the spirit of unity that arose in America in the immediate aftermath of the September 11, 2011, terrorist attacks.” By donating or checking the list of good deeds available around the nation, we can be a part of this new way of remembrance. We remember, move into action, and strengthen our nation as a unified front. 

July 2022 Message

Being an ally to underrepresented, marginalized, or underprivileged people is challenging and demanding. It begins with engaging in self-work to understand the areas of privilege and particular elements that create our persona. Standing by those targeted by overt or covert forms of discrimination requires courage, discipline, and integrity.

Two of our sibling affinity organizations, the Sea Services Leadership Association (SSLA) and the National Naval Officers Association (NNOA), held yearly symposiums this month. These organizations promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the military, encourage mentoring and coaching, address issues of relevance among underrepresented groups, and invite military leaders to challenge the audience with their uplifting messages.

Celebrating with SSLA and NNOA this month is amplified by the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) Act and the 50th anniversary of the appointment of Rear Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr., the first African American to reach the flag rank in the U.S. Navy. These historical events are remarkable examples of the journey of inclusion and equity that brought diversity to our armed forces.

WAVES provided much-needed flexibility, creativity, and abilities to our Navy during World War II. Almost 100,000 females joined the enlisted and officer ranks and provided coverage in different areas around the Fleet. This temporary program became a permanent solution, providing new perspectives and optimal support during crucial times in our nation’s history. The women who served in the WAVES program paved the way for the female sailors of today and their ability to participate in all operational environments.

World War II U.S. NAVY WAVES Volunteers Recruitment Film
(Center) Receives the congratulations of other officers, following the ceremony marking his promotion to flag rank, on board USS Jouett (DLG-29) at San Diego, California, 2 June 1971. Prior to his promotion to Rear Admiral, Captain Gravely was Jouett's Commanding Officer. U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Photograph.
Rear Admiral Samuel L. Gravely, Jr., USN (Center) Receives the congratulations of other officers, following the ceremony marking his promotion to flag rank, on board USS Jouett (DLG-29) at San Diego, California, 2 June 1971. Prior to his promotion to Rear Admiral, Captain Gravely was Jouett’s Commanding Officer. U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Photograph.

Vice Adm. Gravely transitioned from Seaman to Admiral during decades of great turmoil. He became the first U.S. Navy African American to reach the ranks of commander, captain, rear admiral, and vice admiral. This Virginian, who served for 38 years, was a committed trailblazer and leader who made the best out of each opportunity that came his way. His KSA in communications kept expanding through the decades, even after he retired from active duty.

This month we celebrate with our SSLA and NNOA sisters and brothers as we renew our commitment to walking side by side with them. May the valuable example of the WAVES and leaders like Vice Adm. Gravely energize us to be allies to other underrepresented groups. After all, en familia, we suffer with those who suffer and celebrate with those who celebrate (see 1 Cor 12:26).

Happy 232nd Birthday, US Coast Guard!

We wish all our Coast Guard brothers and sisters a happy 232nd birthday! The article below was taken from GoCoastGuard.com, and the video from Channel 10 Tampa Bay.

Semper Paratus!

The Coast Guard: America’s Oldest Maritime Defenders

A 45 foot patrol boat along with an HH-65 helicopter training off the coast of Alaska.

The Coast Guard is one of the oldest organizations of the federal government. Established in 1790, the Coast Guard served as the nation’s only armed force on the sea until Congress launched the Navy Department eight years later.  Since then, the Coast Guard has protected the United States throughout its long history and served proudly in every one of the nation’s conflicts.

The Coast Guard through History

4 August 1790 – President George Washington signs the Tariff Act that authorizes the construction of ten vessels, referred to as “cutters,” to enforce federal tariff and trade laws and to prevent smuggling.  The Revenue Cutter Service expanded in size and responsibilities as the nation grew.

1915 – The Revenue Cutter Service merges with the U.S. Life-Saving Service, and is officially renamed the Coast Guard, making it the only maritime service dedicated to saving life at sea and enforcing the nation’s maritime laws.

1939 – President Franklin Roosevelt orders the transfer of the Lighthouse Service to the Coast Guard, putting it in charge of maritime navigation.

1946 – Congress permanently transfers the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Marine Inspection and Navigation to the Coast Guard, putting merchant marine licensing and merchant vessel safety in its control.

1967 – The Coast Guard is transferred to Department of Transportation.

2003 – The Coast Guard is again transferred, this time to the Department of Homeland Security, where it currently serves.

The Coast Guard Today

The Coast Guard is both a federal law enforcement agency and a military force, and therefore is a faithful protector of the United States in peacetime and war. In times of peace, the Coast Guard operates as part of the Department of Homeland Security, enforcing the nation’s laws at sea, protecting the marine environment, guarding the nation’s vast coastline and ports, and performing vital life saving missions. In times of war, or at the direction of the President, the Coast Guard serves under the Department of the Navy, defending the nation against terrorism and foreign threats.

Statistics

The Coast Guard is the principal Federal agency responsible for maritime safety, security, and environmental stewardship in U.S. ports and waterways. In this capacity, the Coast Guard protects and defends more than 100,000 miles of U.S. coastline and inland waterways, and safeguards an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) encompassing 4.5 million square miles stretching from North of the Arctic Circle to South of the equator, from Puerto Rico to Guam, encompassing nine time zones – the largest EEZ in the world. As one of the five Armed Services of the United States, the Coast Guard is the only military branch within the Department of Homeland Security. In addition to its role as an Armed Service, the Coast Guard is a first responder and humanitarian service that provides aid to people in distress or impacted by natural and man-made disasters whether at sea or ashore. The Coast Guard is a member of the Intelligence Community, and is a law enforcement and regulatory agency with broad legal authorities associated with maritime transportation, hazardous materials shipping, bridge administration, oil spill response, pilotage, and vessel construction and operation.

The over 56,000 members of the Coast Guard operate a multi-mission, interoperable fleet of 243 Cutters, 201 fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, and over 1,600 boats. Operational control of surface and air assets is vested in two Coast Guard geographical Areas (Pacific and Atlantic), nine Coast Guard Districts, and 37 Sectors located at strategic ports throughout the country. Six Mission Support Logistics and Service Centers provide services for operational assets and shore facilities. Coast Guard program oversight, policy development, and personnel administration are carried out at Coast Guard Headquarters located on the St. Elizabeths campus in Washington, DC.

On an average day, the Coast Guard:

  • conducts 45 search and rescue cases;
  • saves 10 lives;
  • saves over $1.2M in property;
  • seizes 874 pounds of cocaine and 214 pounds of marijuana;
  • conducts 57 waterborne patrols of critical maritime infrastructure;
  • interdicts 17 illegal migrants;
  • escorts 5 high-capacity passenger vessels;
  • conducts 24 security boardings in and around U.S. ports;
  • screens 360 merchant vessels for potential security threats prior to arrival in U.S. ports;
  • conducts 14 fisheries conservation boardings;
  • services 82 buoys and fixed aids to navigation;
  • investigates 35 pollution incidents;
  • completes 26 safety examinations on foreign vessels;
  • conducts 105 marine inspections;
  • investigates 14 marine casualties involving commercial vessels;
  • facilitates movement of $8.7B worth of goods and commodities through the Nation’s Maritime Transportation System.

ALVA and ANSO Sign Cooperation Agreement to Support Latino Veterans

Herndon, VA – The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) and the Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO) announce that they have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreement to cooperate to support Latino service members and veterans.

Founded in 1981 by the first Secretary of the Navy of Hispanic descent, the Honorable Eduardo Hidalgo, the Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO) has long served as a mentoring and career development-focused organization. In addition to supporting outreach within America’s underserved communities, ANSO directly supports Hispanic/Latino(a) members in their decision to remain in their respective services and also helps those who separate or retire find outside employment through its extensive network.

The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) exists to help Latino veterans thrive and recognize their indispensable contributions throughout history. ALVA focuses on five key areas: Workforce development/job placement, Entrepreneurship and business growth, telling the stories of Latinos’ military contributions since the inception of our nation, Advocacy on policies that benefit veterans and Latinos, and a Repository of information on benefits/resources these veterans have earned.

“ANSO is proud to partner with and support ALVA. Together, we will continue to help our Hispanic, and Latino Service members thrive and be recognized for their exceptional contributions, not only while they serve, but also after separation or retirement.” CAPT Roy Love, President, ANSO.

“ALVA is so very excited to cement this relationship with ANSO and bolster the important work they have been doing for decades,” said Danny Vargas, Chairman/CEO of ALVA. “We share not only a common constituency, but also a common commitment to doing everything possible to Latino service members and veterans to have the access, the tools, and the resources needed to succeed.”

About Association of Naval Services Officers (ANSO):

ANSO is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to recruiting, retaining, and promoting Hispanics and Latinos across all United States Sea Services ranks. To learn more about ANSO, visit: https://www.ansomil.org/ and follow us on:

https://www.facebook.com/ansomil
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ansomil
https://twitter.com/ansomil
https://www.instagram.com/ansomil/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqRhNSef_-Sg1i3KL3hmp_w

About American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA): 

The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) is a registered 501c3 that exists to help American Latino veterans thrive after their military service, access the benefits they have earned, and enhance recognition of Latino contributions to our nation’s defense since before its inception. For more information on ALVA visit https://www.alvavets.org or follow us on our social media channels:

https://www.facebook.com/alvavets
https://www.linkedin.com/company/alvavets/
https://twitter.com/alvavets
https://www.instagram.com/alvavets/
ALVA YouTube Channel

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