2018
Your SDNGEA just wrapped up a productive state conference in Deadwood on April 20-21st and I want to touch base with you about what we are accomplishing within the association. The body has passed 10 new resolutions and reaffirmed 8 others to send on to the next level. Many of these resolutions are calling for continued benefits (like TriCare and incentive bonuses) for all soldiers, regardless of time in service, rank, or employer. Others are requesting improved maternity/paternity leave rights or attempting to streamline the process of reactivating TriCare following a period of active duty. The association also awarded scholarships and recognized this year’s Soldier & NCO of the Year. There was discussion about raising yearly membership dues to a flat rate of $20-25 for everyone, but the motion did not pass. Be aware that this is something that might be coming down the road for us all – and know that there is no better time than RIGHT NOW to spring for that Lifetime Membership in the association. It’s very affordable right now, and it will save you money in the long run if you plan to continue supporting EANGUS. As always, we appreciate your membership and service, and if you have any questions about what the association can do for you, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
SGT Anna Simons
Jr. Enlisted Rep – Army
(605) 737-6755
anna.l.simons4.mil@mail.mil
2012
2012 will be a year to be remembered. Under the guidance of the State Executive Council, our Junior Enlisted Councils (JEC) initiated a new program to recognize those junior members who show leadership, initiative and a commitment to our organization (state and national). The award is appropriately called “JEC of the Year”. The prerequisites were determined by each individual JEC committee chair (Josh Mork – ANG and Dalene Link – ARNG). During the last calendar year, each JEC chairman facilitated the nominations process of quarterly recipients that were then forwarded to the state executive council. This first year we received 4 nominees: Josh Bittner (ARNG), Collin Tobin (ANG), Jarod Morken (ARNG) and Amber Bekaert (AIR). A boarding process was conducted during our state conference under the tutelage of 3 SDNGEA past presidents: Ed Revell, Cathy Anderson and Ben Lamp. Suffice to say, the competition was very close and has a way of bring out the best. This year’s recipient, our first recipient is Amber Bekaert. Congratulations Amber!