TABLE OF CONTENTS

PREAMBLE
MOTTO
ORGANIZATION TITLES


ARTICLE I                    Name
ARTICLE II                   Purpose/Auxiliaries/CAMRA
ARTICLE III                  Membership/Honorary/Transfer/Resignations
ARTICLE IV                  Membership Dues
ARTICLE V                   Finances
ARTICLE VI                  Officers/Vacancies/BOD/NEC/Special Committees

APPENDIX 6-0              President
APPENDIX 6-1              First Vice President
APPENDIX 6-2              Second Vice President
APPENDIX 6-3              Treasurer
APPENDIX 6-4              Secretary
APPENDIX 6-5              Recording Secretary
APPENDIX 6-6              Historian
APPENDIX 6-7              National Coordinator of Public Relations and Information
APPENDIX 6-8              Chaplain
APPENDIX 6-9             Sergeant-At-Arms
APPENDIX 6-10            State Officers
APPENDIX 6-11            Executive Director
APPENDIX 6-12            Sr. Admin Office Clerk & Asst. Admin. Office Clerk

ARTICLE VII                 National Conventions and Annual Meetings
ARTICLE VIII                Discipline and Jurisdiction
ARTICLE IX                  National Committees
ARTICLE X                   Associate Membership
ARTICLE XI                  Amendments
ARTICLE XII                 Precedence of Law
ARTICLE XIII                Chapters

STANDING RULE 1      Installation Procedures
Oath of Office

STANDING RULE 2A     State/Chapter Membership Oath

STANDING RULE 2B     Oath in Absentia

STANDING RULE 3       Mode of Dress                   

STANDING RULE 4A     National Dues         

STANDING RULE 4B     Reimbursable Expenses                    

STANDING RULE 5       National Prayers

STANDING RULE 6       Final Authority for Chapters and States

   AMERICAN MILITARY RETIREES ASSOCIATION, INC

CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS

PREAMBLE

With love and reverence for GOD and Country, we the retired members of the Armed Forces that have honorably served the United States of America are joining together with mutual respect, concern and trust for one another, declare this to be the Preamble to the Constitution of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc. Membership shall consist of male and female, honorably retired and receiving, or qualified to receive, military retirement benefits from any branch of the military services of our beloved country, the United States of America, and allied nations.

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MOTTO:

"UNITY"

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ORGANIZATION TITLES

CHAPTER - An organized or chartered local group governed by a President and other duly elected officers.

STATE - An organization consisting of one or more Chapters within a designated area (State and Territory) governed by a State President.

NATIONAL - All National Officers, Committees and Organizations governed by the National President.

The first group formed within a State or Territory shall be designated as State headquarters with a State designation and Chapter #1 designation. The State number will be assigned by the National Headquarters. This Chapter's officers will be and serve as corresponding State officers until the first state convention when permanent State officers are chosen. The designation of State chapter and the location of the State Headquarters may be changed by a majority vote of Chapter Delegates to a State convention. Voting may be at a specially convened meeting or by mail ballots.

ARTICLE I

Name

Section 101. The name of this organization shall be "American Military Retirees Association, Inc." The American Military Retirees Association, Inc. is chartered as a nonprofit corporation under and pursuant to the laws of the State of New York .

Section 102. The State of corporation is New York . The American Military Retirees Association was formed in 1973 in the Village of Saranac Lake, County of Franklin , State of New York . The Administrative Offices (Address of Process) are presently located at 5436 Peru Street, Suite 1 , in the City of Plattsburgh , County of Clinton , State of New York .  The Association may have such offices within the United States or territories as the National Board of Directors may designate, or as the proper fulfillment of the purpose of the Association may require from time to time.  Upon application to the National Board of Directors and approval thereof, the Headquarters of AMRA may be relocated.

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ARTICLE II

Purpose

Section 201. The purpose for which the Association was formed is:

(a) To protect and preserve the vested rights, benefits and privileges of Retired Armed Forces personnel.

(b) To provide a means to sponsor, foster, and encourage legislation affecting the status of personnel retired from the Armed Forces.

(c) To foster the welfare of survivors and dependent children of retired Armed Forces personnel.

(d) To accept, as members, all retired personnel from all branches of the Armed Forces regardless of rank, who are honorably retired and receiving, or qualified to receive retired/retainer benefits.  This includes surviving widows/widowers of any of the above.

(e) To provide a means of social contact for all members and their families.

Section 202. The American Military Retirees Association is an Organization made up of members who have been, or will be, honorably retired from any branch of service of the United States Armed Forces and/or eligible survivors. It is composed of the National Association and its subordinate States and Chapters chartered under and pursuant to its authority in the manner hereinafter provided.

Section 202a.  With the approval of the National Board of Directors, national, state and local chapters may form an Auxiliary and/or Children of American Military Retirees Association (CAMRA).  Any auxiliary or CAMRA group will function in conjunction with the national, state, or local chapter it is associated with.  Election of officers, dues and bylaws shall not supercede those of the national association.

Section 203. The American Military Retirees Association shall be a nonprofit, nonpartisan, and nonsectarian organization.

Section 204. Members of the American Military Retirees Association shall not receive monetary profit, incidental or otherwise, by reason of their membership in the Association. Individual Chapters and States may create such death benefit plans as they may desire, provided that any and all payments to beneficiaries of deceased members of the Chapter or State will be paid from the Chapter or State Treasury and will in no way obligate the National Treasury of the American Military Retirees Association.

Section 205. No salaries shall be paid to Officers or Directors, except as provided in Appendix 6-11.

ARTICLE III

Membership

Section 301. To be eligible for an individual membership in the American Military Retirees Association an applicant must be:

(a) Retired from one of the armed forces and receive, or eligible to receive, a retainer or retirement benefits. Or

(b) A person who has applied for and received official notification of a retirement date. Applicant may be accepted for membership upon certification and payment of dues. Or

(c) Armed Forces personnel on Active Duty, or a member of the Reserves, National Guard, or Merchant Marines. Or

(d) Retired Military personnel of Allied nations, thereby recognizing their parallel honorable service. Or

(e) Surviving widows/widowers of any of the above.  Or

(f)  All persons who are 100 percent disabled and are total and permanent under Title 38 U.S.C. And

(g) Be a person of good character and morals and has not been convicted of any deviate charges against another person or child. Has not been convicted of trying to overthrow the government of the United States of America , and or any terrorist acts directly or indirectly.

Section 302. To be eligible for Corporate Membership in the American Military Retirees Association an applicant must:

a)   Qualify by any of the criteria listed above in Section 301 paragraphs (a) through (c).

b)   Be employed by a corporation that offers TRICARE supplemental insurance administered by Association and Society Insurance Corporation (ASI).

Section 303. A member in good standing is defined as one whose dues are paid up to and including the current date, and possesses a current membership card. A member in arrears is one whose dues have lapsed. The lapsed member's name shall be removed from the membership roll after six (6) months. Former members shall not have rights or privileges of membership until reinstated.

Section 304. Chapter membership shall be considered as within the realm of the individual Chapters and such membership shall be as the Bylaws of the individual Chapters provide.

Honorary Membership

Section 305. Persons not eligible for membership but who shall have rendered some distinguished or notable service to the American Military Retirees Association may, by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the National Board of Directors be elected to Honorary Membership. Honorary Members shall not pay dues or have voting privileges.

Section 306. The National Executive Committee shall screen all applications for Honorary Membership.  Upon review and majority approval, the NEC shall submit the information to the Board of Directors.

Section 307. A certified statement signed by the President of the State or Chapter submitting the resolution, stating the details of the distinguished or notable services rendered by the nominee to the American Military Retirees Association and indicate the nominee is not otherwise eligible for membership, shall accompany each nominating resolution for Honorary Membership.

Section 308. The Honorary Membership will consist of personalized membership card in laminated plastic.    A scroll suitable for framing, containing the personal history of the type of service rendered to the American Military Retirees Association, shall be issued to the accepted Honorary Member.

Section 309. An Honorary Membership shall be for the life of the individual so honored.

Membership Transfer

Section 310. It shall be the right of a member to transfer his/her membership from one State or Chapter to another, except as hereinafter provided.

Section 311. In affecting a transfer, Secretaries shall require the member to sign the regular transfer form and then shall forward it to the National Secretary, who in turn shall notify the Chapters or States concerned. No transfer of un-expired dues shall take place.

Section 312. The Chapter or State to which a member transfers shall not be liable for the current annual per capita tax on dues previously paid, nor shall the transferring member be credited to said State or Chapter for the purpose of representation at a National Convention.

Section 313. No member shall have the right to transfer his/her membership to circumvent disciplinary action.

Resignations

Section 314. Members may resign from the American Military Retirees Association at any time without prejudice except when disciplinary action directly concerning them is pending. Resignations submitted by members to escape consequences of any and all disciplinary action concerning the member, shall be accepted with prejudice and shall not alter any other action by the National Board of Directors and/or the National President. Members whose resignations are accepted with prejudice shall not have the right of reinstatement for at least five (5) years from the date of their resignation, and then only after two-thirds (2/3) vote of the National Executive Committee, shall decree.

Section 315. Local Chapters, through the proper channels, shall notify the National Secretary of any resignations, indicating with or without prejudice.

Section 316. Applications for new membership being forwarded from a chapter will be in accordance with Article XIII, Section 1327.

ARTICLE IV

Membership Dues

Section 401. Membership dues shall be as prescribed in Standing Rule 4A. Application for new or reinstated membership must be accompanied by the payment. No initiation fee will be charged for new members.

Section 402. All Chapters shall pay to the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., current assessments on National dues collected.

Section 403.  Association and Society Insurance (ASI) will collect AMRA Corporate Membership dues from corporations who have enrolled eligible employees in ASI’s group military supplemental medical insurance policies.

Section 404.  ASI will forward Corporate membership dues payments to AMRA on a monthly basis.

Section 405. (a) Individual Membership in the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., shall be for a specified period of time (one year, two years, etc) or LIFE, and will be effective from date of application or date of processing in the National Headquarters. Members will then be advised of date of expiration. (b) An attempt will be made to advise all members prior to the expiration and renewal date in writing to prevent a lapse in membership. Any member whose dues are in arrears for a period of six (6) months shall be dropped from the membership rolls.

Section 406. A person seeking either individual or corporate membership reinstatement must comply with Article III.

ARTICLE V

Finances

Section 501. All monies, received from any and all sources, shall be deposited to a general checking or savings account of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., in a recognized banking or savings and loan and/or Co-op Bank insured by an agency of the federal/state government.

Section 502. Disbursements shall be made against proper vouchers and approved by the National Treasurer or National President or the Executive Director.

ARTICLE VI

National Officers

Section 601.  National Officers shall be elected for one year, ranked in the following order: President, First Vice President, Second Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer.

(a)  The ex-officio offices of Chaplain, Historian, Sergeant-at-Arms, and Coordinator of Public Relations and Information shall be appointed for a one year term by the National President with concurrence by 2/3 of the voting members of the National Board of Directors.

(b)  The Immediate Past National President shall automatically become a voting member of the National Board of Directors.

(c)  He/She will serve until replaced by the next Immediate Past National President.

(d)  If so desired, the Immediate Past National President can decline to serve on the National Board of Directors.

(e)  The decision not to serve must be in writing, addressed to the National President, who will inform the National Board of Directors that the Immediate Past National President does not wish to serve on the National Board of Directors.

Section 602. Vacancies of National Office.  Should the President, First Vice President, or Second Vice President be unable to serve their term, the vacancy will be filled by moving each of the remaining officers up one position. The vacancy of the offices of Secretary, Treasurer, or Director-at-Large may be filled by a majority vote of the Board of Directors as necessary. (See Section 606 for resignation procedures).

Section 603. National Directors-at-Large are to be elected as follows by the majority vote at the Annual Board of Directors Meeting or Annual Convention:  Four Directors-at-Large to be elected each year for a three year term to replace the four Directors-at-Large who are rotating off of the Board.  If so desired, and properly elected, Officers and Directors-at-Large may succeed themselves for another term.

Section 604. The Board of Directors shall have the primary control and general management of the affairs and business of the Association.  Such Board of Directors shall in all cases act as a Board, and convene at least annually.  At any meeting of the Board of Directors, six members in addition to the President/Chairperson (present in person or by use of a conference call/speaker phone as long as all persons present can hear the person on the phone and he/she can hear the other members) of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.  The President shall be eligible to vote only in the case of a tie and shall have one vote.  The other Board members shall be eligible to vote at all meetings of the Board and shall have one vote.  By a majority vote of the members present they may adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of their meetings as well as the management of the Association, as they deem proper, not inconsistent with these Bylaws and the laws of the state in which the Association is incorporated.

Section 605. Any member of the National Board of Directors may be removed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the remaining members of the Board for just cause.

Section 606. If for any reason a member of the National Board of Directors is unable to fulfill the duties of his/her office, he/she shall submit a letter of resignation to the National President stating the effective date of resignation and the reason thereof. The National President will place the letter of resignation before the remaining members of the Board for such action, as they deem appropriate.

Section 607. Each officer of the National Board of Directors may select assistant(s) from their own Chapter or local area as his/her personal staff to enable him/her to more efficiently fulfill their duties. These staff assistants will not be part of the National Board of Directors nor will they be required to travel or incur any expenditure in their assignments unless they desire to do so for the good of the Association.

Section 608. The National Executive Committee shall consist of the President (Chairperson), Immediate Past National President, all Vice Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer, and four Directors-at-Large plus one alternate who will only vote if the alternate is needed to have a quorum, nominated and approved by the Directors-at-Large. Vacancies will be filled by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.  Four or more members in addition to the President/Chairperson (present in person or by use of a conference call/speaker phone as long as all persons present can hear the person on the phone and he/she can hear the other members) shall constitute a quorum to conduct business. Except where otherwise noted, the National Executive Committee shall have the authority to conduct all business that may come before it during the interim between National Board of Directors’ meetings. Meetings will be called at the discretion of the Chairperson. All members of the Board of Directors will receive prior notification and a tentative agenda of any meeting of the National Executive Committee.  Upon written request of three or more members of the Committee, the Chairperson is required to conduct a meeting. The Chairperson may vote only in the case of a tie vote.

Section 609. The duties of each National Officer shall be in accordance with the duties listed in the following Appendices.

Section 610. Any Special Committee report will be addressed to the National President.  He/she will disseminate the information as necessary.  Minutes of any Special Committee meeting will be presented at the Annual BOD Meeting/Convention.

APPENDIX 6-0

President

1. Must be a member in good standing of AMRA.

2. The President shall be an elected officer, hold office for one (1) year or until a successor is duly elected.  He/She shall be a member of the National Board of Directors and the National Executive Committee only voting in the case of a tie.

3. The President of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., shall, in accordance with "Robert's Rules of Order," act in a manner therein-described under "Duties of the President".

4. He/She shall appoint all committees not otherwise provided for in the Constitution and Bylaws, such committees shall serve at his/her pleasure.

5. He/She shall serve as the Association's representative at all formal functions.

6. He/She shall at all times, act and dress in a manner which will uphold the dignity of the Association.

7. He/She shall serves as an ex-officio member of all National Committees.  Note:  May serve as a voting member of the Scholarship Committee.

APPENDIX 6-1

First Vice President

1. Must be a member in good standing of AMRA.

2. The First Vice President shall be an elected officer, hold office for one (1) year or until a successor is duly elected, and become a member with voting privileges of the National Board of Directors and the National Executive Committee.

3. The First Vice President of the Association shall, in accordance with "Robert's Rules of Order," act in a manner therein described as "Duties of the First Vice President.

4. He/She shall be required to perform duties and/or assignments as may be directed by the President.

5. He/She shall assume duties of the President in the event of absence, illness, or death.

6. The First Vice President shall work cooperatively with:

(a) The Director of Public Relations and Information.

(b) The Historian.

(c) Editor of the National Publication or serve in the capacity of Editor until such time as an editor is appointed.

7. The First Vice President shall coordinate membership throughout the National Association and be a member of the Membership and Chapter Committee.

APPENDIX 6-2

Second Vice President

1. Must be a member in good standing of AMRA.

2. The Second Vice President shall be an elected officer, hold office for one (1) year or until a successor is duly elected, and become a member with voting privileges of the National Board of Directors and the National Executive Committee.

3. He/She shall be required to perform duties and/or assignments, as may be directed by the President.

APPENDIX 6-3

Treasurer

1. Must be a member in good standing of AMRA.

2. The Treasurer shall be an elected officer, hold office for one (1) year or until a successor is duly elected, and become a member with voting privileges of the National Board of Directors and the National Executive Committee.

3. He/She shall verify all monies derived from membership dues, decals, advertising, etc.

4. He/She shall monitor disbursements in accordance with directives established by the National Board of Directors or the National Executive Committee. All expenditures are to be made by check, approved and signed by the Treasurer or anyone authorized to sign checks against the national checking account.

5. He/She shall make an annual Treasurer's report of monies received and disbursed. This report to be presented at the time of the National Board of Directors' meeting. He/She will also prepare any other financial reports directed by the National Board of Directors.

6. He/She shall advise the President on financial matters to include income, expenditures and monies available.

7. He/She shall be bonded or insured (whichever is appropriate) by some reputable concern in the sum of $25,000 ($500.00 deductible). This fee will be paid out of the general fund and to be reviewed annually by the National Board of Directors. In addition, the postal clerk will be bonded or insured up to $1000.  This fee will be paid out of the general fund.

APPENDIX 6-4

Secretary

1. Must be a member in good standing of AMRA.

2. The Secretary shall be an elected officer, director, and will serve for a one year term or until a successor is duly elected, and be a member of the National Board of Directors and the National Executive Committee.

3. He/She shall report directly to the National President and will be expected to carry out duties as assigned.

4. He/She shall be responsible for the keeping of copies of the minutes for all National Board of Directors meetings and for National Executive Committee meetings.

5. He/She shall maintain a copy of the current AMRA Constitution and Bylaws, and Robert’s Rules of Order.

6. He/She shall be responsible for furnishing State Presidents with the necessary supplies of their offices as required.

APPENDIX 6-5

Recording Secretary

1. The Recording Secretary shall be appointed by the Secretary or the National President.

2. He/She shall assume such duties as assigned.

3. He/She shall record the minutes of all National Board of Directors meetings and National Executive Committee meetings.

4. He/She shall be responsible for the maintenance of the deceased member's list.

5. He/She shall arrange that a letter of condolence be sent to the next of kin upon notification of a member's demise.

APPENDIX 6-6

Historian

1. Must be a member in good standing of AMRA.

2. He/She shall be appointed by the National President.

3. He/She shall report directly to the First Vice President.

4. He/She shall be responsible for the collection of materials, (such as photos, news clippings, and programs) relating to the organization and activities of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., so as to chronicle the history of the Association.

5. He/She shall arrange and preserve the materials in a chronicle, which will form a permanent historical record of the American Military Retirees Association.

6. He/She shall coordinate with the National President to periodically review and maintain the contents of AMRA’s historical files.

APPENDIX 6-7

National Coordinator of Public Relations and Information

1. He/She shall be appointed by the National President.

2. He/She shall report directly to the National President.

3. He/She shall be responsible for organizing a publicity team with a representative in each state.

4. He/She shall originate and follow through all ideas necessary to publicize the National Association.

5. He/She shall work cooperatively with the editor of AMRA’s national newsletter to ensure the contents reflects AMRA’s goals and objectives.

APPENDIX 6-8

Chaplain

1. He/She shall be appointed by the National President.

2. Report directly to the President.

3. He/She will be consulted on all National matters, movements, and aspirations; particularly matters that pertain to the spiritual life of the Association.

4. He/She shall attend the meetings of the National Board of Directors. He/She will open and close these assemblies with a fitting prayer. Where prudence directs a need for clergy, he/she shall be invited to particular assemblies by the President, the Convention Chairman, or other competent authority, will execute these blessings and/or prayers before and after the meeting. The responsibility for fashioning, executing, and edifying Memorial Services at the Annual meeting will rest chiefly with the Chaplain, and secondarily with the Chairman of the Board.

5. He/She shall maintain a file of names listing clergy competent to receive consideration and subsequent appointment as National Chaplain. This information should be gathered at the Annual Board meeting.

6. The National Chaplain will submit to the editor of the National Publication some reflections for publication in each issue, (such as a Chaplain's Column).

APPENDIX 6-9

Sergeant-At-Arms

1. Must be a member in good standing of AMRA.

2. The Sergeant-At-Arms shall be appointed by the National President and be a non-voting member of the Board of Directors.

3. He/She shall, when necessary and feasible, accompany the President on Association business trips and meetings.

4. He/She shall be responsible for the Association’s Standard and National Colors.

5. He/She shall be responsible for the briefing of State and Chapter officers of the proper procedures for all ceremonies and functions.

6. He/She shall be responsible that meetings and functions are conducted in an orderly and procedural manner.

Appendix 6-10

State Officers

1. Each State in these United States of America shall have one State President, one Vice President, one Secretary, and one Treasurer who shall be elected by the State's members in good standing. Should any State, for any reason, be without a State President, in accordance with the National Constitution and Bylaws, the National Board of Directors shall take such action as deemed necessary to fill the office temporarily until a state election can take place.

2. The term of office for State President shall be one (1) year or as the State may direct.

3. He/She shall be responsible for all activities within his/her State, acting as liaison between Chapters, State, and National Organizations.

4. He/She shall advise the National Second Vice President and the officers within the State whenever he/she is unable to perform his/her duties.

APPENDIX 6-11

Executive Director

The National Board of Directors (BOD) will determine if it is necessary to hire an Executive Director to operate the National Headquarters.  If it is so determined by the BOD, the National President will be charged with recruiting and selecting a person for the position and presenting this person to the BOD for hiring approval. 

The Executive Director:

1.  Shall be hired by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.

2.  Shall not hold state and/or national office in AMRA or in any other military association while employed as Executive Director for AMRA.

3.  Shall have the skills and personality to run the office in keeping with good business practices.

4.  Shall perform duties and receive pay commensurate with his/her experience, duties and responsibilities as defined in the job description.

5. Shall report to the National President.  The National President has the authority to terminate the employment of the National Executive Director.

6. Shall have the right to appeal the termination of employment to the Board of Directors.

7. Shall have the right to hire and/or dismiss clerical help as necessary with the approval of the National President.  Anyone dismissed by the Executive Director has the right to appeal to the Board of Directors.

8. Shall serve as Editor of the national publication – “AMRA News”.

APPENDIX 6-12

Senior Administrative Office Clerk & Assistant Administrative Office Clerk(s)

1.  The Senior Office Administrative Clerk shall perform duties as the Executive Director deems necessary and in accordance with the published directives and/or job description.

2.   The Office Assistant Administrative Clerk shall perform duties as the Executive Director deems necessary and in accordance with the published directives and/or job description.

ARTICLE VII

National Conventions and/or Annual Meetings

Section 701. A National Convention and/or Annual Board of Directors Meeting may be convened as determined by the National Board of Directors.

Section 702. Any member of the Association in good standing may attend the National Convention and/or Annual Board of Directors Meeting. Such a member may speak from the floor provided the floor is requested for such a member by a duly authorized delegate representing the member's Chapter.

Section 703. Discipline on the floor of the Convention and/or Annual Board of Directors meeting will be the responsibility of the Sergeant-at-Arms, provided by the sponsoring Chapter or State. The Sergeant-at-Arms shall maintain order and discipline as directed by the Meeting Chairman.

Section 704. Delegates to the Annual National Board of Directors Meeting or National Convention:

The National President may not represent his/her State or Chapter as a delegate to the Annual Meeting/Convention.

Any person holding more than one voting position in AMRA will only be entitled to ONE VOTE at any official AMRA meeting, thereby forfeiting any excess votes.

State.  Each state with an active Chapter(s) is entitled to representation by the State President and one additional delegate from his/her State of representation per 25 members in good standing of said State chosen by a State annual meeting/convention or, if necessary, by the State President.

Chapter.  Each active Chapter is entitled to representation by the Chapter President and one additional delegate from his/her Chapter per 25 members in good standing of said Chapter chosen by an official meeting of the Chapter or, if necessary, by the Chapter President.

Section 705. Each delegate to the National Board of Directors Annual Meeting and/or Convention must be present at the Annual Meeting/Convention to participate in the voting process.  No proxy votes will be allowed.  Each delegate will present a letter to the Certification Committee identifying him/her as the delegate of representation. A State Delegate’s letter is to be signed by the respective State President or in the absence of a State President, it must be signed by the State Secretary.  A Chapter Delegate’s letter is to be signed by the respective Chapter President or in the absence of a Chapter President, it must be signed by the Chapter Secretary.

Section 706.  A Certification Committee consisting of the Sergeant-At-Arms, one member of the National Executive Committee appointed by the President, and one member of the Board of Directors of the Chapter sponsoring the Convention will review the credentials of each delegation as to authenticity and duly record the same.

Section 707. Resolutions other than amendments to the Constitution & Bylaws to be acted upon at the National Convention and/or Annual Board of Directors Meeting shall be submitted to the National Executive Committee two (2) months prior to the scheduled date of such meeting.  Amendments to the Constitution & Bylaws are to be submitted in accordance with Article XI.

Section 708. The Annual Board of Directors Meeting/Convention shall convene with the reading of the "George Washington Prayer." A copy of the prayer may be found in Standing Rule 5(b).

Section 709. The National Convention and/or Annual Board of Directors Meeting shall, as an item of business, elect the members of the National Executive Committee as provided under the provisions of Article VI, Section 601 of the Bylaws.

Section 710. The order of business at Conventions and/or Annual Board of Directors Meetings may proceed as follows.  Any deviation from this agenda will need to be authorized by the National President.

1.   Call to Order-President

2.   Opening Prayer (George Washington Prayer)

3.   Posting of Colors-Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag

4.   President's Welcome

5.   Roll Call of National Officers

6.   Presentation of the Minutes of last Annual Meeting/Convention

7.   Presentation of the Minutes of the National Executive Committee meetings throughout the year

8.   Presentation of all Special Committee reports

9.   Old Business

10. National Treasurer's Report

11. National Committee Reports

12. Presentation of National Resolutions

13. Election of National Officers/Directors

14. Installation of National Officers/Directors. 

15. New Business

16. Closing Prayer

17. Retiring of Colors

18. Adjournment

Section 711. Each State shall, at a State Convention at least sixty (60) days before the National BOD Meeting/Convention, select a slate of candidates for election to the National Board of Directors. A short resume of each candidate's background shall accompany each slate of candidates submitted to the National Board of Directors. This resume shall not include the candidate's military history. Only the name of the Armed Forces from which the candidate retired shall be permitted. This resume should contain those features, which qualify a candidate for office. Only one candidate for each office should be submitted by any single State. States may caucus with other States to select mutually accepted slates of candidates.

Section 712. Nominations of candidates to National Office should arrive at the National Headquarters, Attention: Nominating Committee, (2) months prior to the date set for the National Convention and/or Annual Meeting to allow for promulgation to all States and Chapters.

Section 713. The Candidates receiving the greatest number of votes shall be declared elected to office. When in the case of three (3) or more candidates for any office, and no candidate receives a clear ten (10) percent plurality, a second ballot of the two (2) candidates with the most votes shall be taken. The candidate then receiving the most votes shall be declared elected.

ARTICLE VIII

Discipline and Jurisdiction

Section 801. The duly elected Board of the Association’s Chapter or State shall exercise any necessary disciplinary control and jurisdiction over its own members and employees with respect to internal Chapter and State Association activities, except if the person’s activities negatively affect the national organization, then the National Board of Directors shall exercise jurisdiction over these activities. In addition, the National Board of Directors shall exercise similar jurisdiction over National Officers, and employees of National Headquarters. The National President shall have authority to form a special committee to investigate a state or chapter member.

Section 802. Because membership in the Association is a privilege with obligations as opposed to the right with privileges, such membership will at all times be subject to approval as well as termination by the National Board of Directors.

Section 803. Should the conduct of any member within the Association be reported to the National President as unacceptable, the National President shall cause the matter to be investigated by a special committee of not more than five (5) members. This committee shall submit to the National President its findings and recommendations not later than forty-five (45) days after receipt of the original report.

(a)    The President shall provide this special committee with a detailed written explanation of the conduct of the person (member).

(b)   The committee shall be authorized to review any material related to the conduct or charges and to call any person within or out of the organization that has knowledge of the conduct or incident.

(c)    As part of the investigation, the committee will interview the person who’s conduct has been reported in order to give the person the opportunity to explain the conduct in question.

(d)   This committee shall submit to the National President its findings and its recommendations not later than forty-five (45) days after the receipt of the original report.

(e)    However, if the investigation cannot be completed within forty-five (45) days, the chairperson of the special committee shall request additional time from the National President to submit the report. The National President is authorized to allow as much time as needed in order for the committee to submit a complete report.

Section 804. The National President will present the report of his/her special committee to the National Board of Directors within ten (10) days of receipt. All actions of the National Board of Directors shall be done in executive session regarding any discipline issues.

(a)   After its consideration of the report, the National Board may, by two-thirds (2/3) vote, impose penalties as it shall consider and warrant.

(b)   Such penalties may include the following:

1.      A written warning and be ineligible to run for any National, State or Chapter office in AMRA for a period of one (1) year.

2.      Suspension for a period not to exceed one (1) year. Member would be ineligible to run for any National, State or Chapter office in AMRA for a period of not less than three (3) years.

3.      Expulsion from AMRA.

4.      Reference to civil authorities for appropriate action as may be dictated by the nature and gravity of the offense and/or incident.

Section 805. Appeal from any penalty must be made in writing addressed to the President. Action on any appeal will be considered and voted on by a simple majority of the Board of Directors and authorized delegates, at the next regular meeting of the membership. Where National Officers are concerned, the appeal will be acted upon at the next regular annual convention unless the National Board of Directors decides to hold a special meeting because of the nature of the appeal. An appeal acted upon by the National Board of Directors shall be reviewed for sufficiency at the next annual convention and meeting by the membership.

(a)   This appeal shall be made within forty-five (45) calendar days of being notified of the disciplinary action.

(b)   Action on any Chapter or State appeal shall be considered and voted on by simple majority present at the next regular meeting of the membership.

(c)   When the actions of any member, National Officer or employee affect the national organization, the appeal will be acted upon by the National Board of Directors.

(d)   The National Board of Directors shall decide all appeals at a special meeting called by the National President.  All appeals shall be acted upon by the National Board of Directors and shall be reviewed and any action taken at the next Annual Meeting and/or Convention.

(e)   The person filing an appeal will be notified in writing by the National Board of Directors with a letter mailed via the United States Postal Service sent by certified and/or registered mail (return receipt).

Section 806. Members expelled for cause may not be reinstated for a period of three (3) years and then after two-thirds (2/3) affirmative vote of the National Executive Committee for reinstatement purposes. Those members removed from the membership rolls for other reasons may be reinstated in the manner prescribed for initial admission to membership.

Section 807. Any member may at any time be required by an Officer of the Board, or member, or employee designated by an Officer to prove his/her eligibility for membership in the Association. If found ineligible, that member's name will be removed from the membership rolls and the last payment of dues will be refunded except as provided for in Section 303 of Article III .

ARTICLE IX

National Committees

Section 901.  National Committees shall be:

1.      Finance & Auditing 

2.      Legislative Affairs & Resolutions

3.      Membership & Chapters

4.      Fund Raising, Marketing & Public Relations

5.      Scholarship Committee

6.      Nominating Committee

7.      Insurance Committee

Section 902,  All National Committee Chairpersons should maintain direct communications with each other to promote harmony and efficiency within the Association. Each National Committee Chairperson shall provide an annual report to the National Board of Directors at the annual meeting/convention with recommendations he/she deems proper. When any recommendation requires action by the National Executive Committee, such recommendation shall be submitted to comply with Article VII, Section 707.

Section 903.  The Finance and Auditing Committee shall consist of at least three (3) members appointed by the National President who may appoint additional members to serve in an advisory capacity. This committee will make a thorough survey of the financial needs and receipts of the Association and report its findings in writing to the National Board of Directors. 

In addition, the committee shall audit the books and records (paper and computerized) of the National Headquarters finances once a year by April 30.  This audit report shall be presented at the Annual Meeting/Convention.  An additional audit may be requested at any time by the National President.  Upon the completion of an audit, a report including the date(s) of the audit shall be submitted to the National President.

Also, the committee shall review the business and office procedures of National Headquarters to include attendance, vacation and sick day documents or any other review requests by National President.

Section 904.  The Legislative Affairs & Resolutions Committee shall consist of three (3) members appointed by the National President who may also appoint additional members to serve in an advisory capacity. It shall be the duty of this committee to be aware of and study with care, all legislation pending in Congress which concerns or affects the status of military personnel, both active and retired, from the Armed Forces. Committee members shall also be aware of laws already enacted, retirement procedures, veterans’ benefits, and procedures of the Veterans Administration so they can act as a resource for our staff and members who need assistance in these areas.

In addition, the Committee shall develop a legislative program for the Association that the National Board of Directors approves and supports.  In this capacity, the committee shall also develop and propose resolutions for consideration and support by our membership.  These resolutions should be submitted to the National Annual Meeting/Convention for approval by the Board of Directors.

Section 905.  The Membership and Chapter Committee shall be chaired by the Second Vice President and up to five members appointed by the National President.  The purpose of the committee is to promote regular membership programs in AMRA.  In addition, it is this committee’s responsibility to review our current chapter structure and develop programs to enhance it or to recommend alternatives for our membership throughout the United States and overseas. .      

Section 906. The Fund Raising, Marketing, and Public Relations Committee shall be appointed by the National President in the number he/she deems necessary. It shall be the duty of this committee to suggest and help develop Fund Raising, Marketing and Public Relations programs for the Association. Membership in this committee shall not be restricted to members of the Association.

Section 907.  The Scholarship Committee shall be appointed by the National President in the number he/she deems necessary. Membership on this committee is restricted to members or the spouse of an Association Member. This committee shall develop and administer the Scholarship Program in coordination with the National Board of Directors.

Section 908.  The Nominating Committee shall be appointed by the National President in the number he/she deems necessary. This committee will be responsible for developing the slate of candidates for National Offices and any replacements between annual meetings following the guidelines in sections 602, 606, and 608. All new candidates for national office must be submitted in nomination form, and must be accompanied with a brief description/resume of the individual.  This committee will function at the pleasure of the National President.

Section 909.  The Insurance Committee shall be appointed by the National President in the number he/she deems necessary.  This committee shall be responsible for the operational insurance needs of National Headquarters, its activities and functions.  This committee will provide the BOD with a yearly Insurance Review Report at the Annual BOD Meeting/Convention.

ARTICLE X

Associate Membership

Section 1001. Associate Memberships are only available at the chapter and state levels.  Refer to individual chapter and state bylaws for more information.

ARTICLE Xl

Amendments

Section 1101. The Constitution and Bylaws (C & BL) may be changed only by the Board of Directors at a National Convention or Annual Board of Directors Meeting in a manner hereinafter provided.  EXCEPTION: If the National Executive Committee declares a change to the C & BL is warranted and vital to the welfare of AMRA, and it is approved by a 2/3 majority vote of the National Executive Committee, it must be presented to the National Board of Directors for their consideration.  Upon 2/3 approval by the Board of Directors, said change will be incorporated into this document, be implemented immediately, and will supercede any previous C & BL, subject to the approval at the next immediate National Convention or Annual Board of Directors Meeting.

Section 1102. It shall require a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the National Convention and/or National Board of Directors to amend the Constitution & Bylaws.

Section 1103. Each proposed change to the Constitution & Bylaws shall originate as follows and be presented at the National Convention or Annual Board of Directors in resolution format.

(a) In a Chapter, the Amendment will be proposed at a regular meeting of the Chapter. It will be read, debated, and approved by no less than two-thirds (2/3) vote at a subsequent regular meeting of the Chapter. Each C & BL resolution shall have the following certification signed by the Chapter President and Chapter Secretary: "This is to certify that this resolution was proposed at a regular meeting of Chapter No. _________ State No. ________ held on ___________ day of________________, 20 __, read and debated and approved by two-thirds (2/3) (or unanimous) vote at a regular meeting of the Chapter held on the ________________ day of, ______________ 20 ­­__, there being present. Or

(b) By the National Board of Directors, according to the instructions provided in Section 1104. Or

(c) By a committee mandated by a National Convention/Board of Directors meeting to prepare and propose amendments according to the instructions provided in Section 1104.

Section 1104. All proposed amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws shall be in the following form:

(a) The resolution shall be restricted to one subject.

(b) The WHEREAS shall state the reason for the proposed amendment.

(c) The WHEREAS shall state the number of the Article and Section or sub-section which is to be amended.

(d) The RESOLVED shall contain the exact wording of the entire section or sub-section, as it is proposed to appear in the Constitution and Bylaws.

Section 1105. Amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws adopted by the National Convention and/or National Board of Directors shall be effective upon adjournment of said National Convention/Board of Directors Meeting unless otherwise provided.

Section 1106. Amendments to the Constitution and Bylaws shall be published to all States within three (3) months from date of enactment.

ARTICLE XII

Precedence of Law

Section 1201. Nothing in this Constitution and Bylaws shall be used or interpreted to circumvent the law of any State or Commonwealth in which the Association has been granted a certificate of incorporation.

Section 1202. Nothing in this Constitution and Bylaws shall be in conflict with the laws of, or Constitution of, the United States of America .

Section 1203. In the event that any procedure or instructions found not to be specifically covered by this Constitution and Bylaws, Roberts Rules of Order shall prevail.

ARTICLE XIII

Chapters

Section 1301. Application to form a Chapter of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., may be made by a group of not less than five (5) persons eligible for membership who agree to accept the Constitution and Bylaws and act as temporary officer for a ninety (90) day interim period. A provisional charter may be issued to an individual interested in developing a chapter. Charter will be issued when application is signed by twenty (20) members in good standing.

Section 1302. Application for a provisional or permanent charter will be submitted to the National President with an informational copy to the State President. The approved charter signed by the National President will be forwarded to the State President for presentation to the new Chapter.

Section 1303. The State President shall arrange for the installation of the Chapter Officers and shall deliver the Charter and a copy of the State Constitution and Bylaws to the new Chapter President.  The State President shall instruct the Chapter Officers in the duties of their respective offices.

Section 1304. The National Board of Directors, by a two-thirds (2/3) majority, shall have the authority to suspend the Charter of any Chapter of the American Military Retirees Association for any of the following reasons.

(a)   When the membership of a Chapter decreases to less than five (5) members in good standing.
(b)   When a Chapter willfully violates or refuses to comply with directives of the National Board of Directors or the National Constitution and Bylaws.
(c)   If a Chapter engages in unlawful acts and practices which, in the judgment of the National Board of Directors would tend to bring discredit to the name of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc.

Section 1305. When a Chapter charter has been suspended, the Chapter Board of Directors, or any member(s) in good standing, may appeal the decision to the National Board of Directors following suspension. Such appeal shall be made in writing and shall be delivered to the National President. The said appeal shall be heard within sixty (60) days of receipt.

Section 1306. When a Chapter is under suspension, no meeting will be held in the name of the Chapter of the Association except for the sole purpose of discussion of the Suspension. No funds of the Chapter shall be expended or obligations incurred during the suspension nor shall the Chapter have a representative in the affairs of the American Military Retirees Association Inc.

Section 1307. If a Chapter is declared defunct, its Charter suspended or voluntarily surrendered, the National and/or State Executive committees, shall assume control of books, properties, and monies, keeping them in trust until a vote of the members in good standing, at the time in the Charter was relinquished, decide as to final disposition of same. The assets shall be distributed to the members to the extent of their liabilities; the remaining assets will be donated to the National Treasury of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc. The number of said Chapter shall not be reissued for a period of five (5) years unless said Chapter has been reorganized and Charter restored.

Section 1308. Each Chapter of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., may adopt Bylaws for the governing of the affairs of the Chapter, not inconsistent with this Constitution and Bylaws and the laws of the State in which the Chapter is located.

Section 1309. The elected officials as provided in the Chapter’s Constitution and Bylaws shall manage the affairs and business of the chapter. In the absence of elected officials, management will be by a Board of Directors of at least five (5) members (elected or appointed) in good standing.

Section 1310. Annual election of officers will be as provided in the Chapter's Constitution and Bylaws. In absence of such, the following will apply: At least sixty (60) days prior to each Chapter’s/State’s annual meeting, the Board of Directors shall appoint a Nomination Committee of three (3) members. It shall be the duty of the Nominating Committee to nominate one (1) member for each vacancy for which elections are being held. Nomination shall be made at least thirty (30) days before the annual meeting and the Chapter Secretary shall promulgate the slate of nominees to all members by mail at the time.

Section 1311. Additional nominations for the vacancies may be made by written declaration provided such declaration is accompanied by an acceptance of the nomination by the nominee and is filed with Chapter Secretary within two (2) weeks of the annual meeting and further that each declaration shall be signed by at least six (6) members. This shall not be interpreted in derogation of the law of any State by the provisions of this Section or Article. Additional nominations of the chapter vacancies may be made during the annual meeting from the floor, provided the nominees are willing.

Section 1312. After nominations have been placed before the members the nominees receiving the majority of votes cast shall be Directors and shall constitute the board of Directors for the term elected.

Section 1313. The term of the elected officials shall be as provided in the Chapter's Constitution and Bylaws. In absence of such, the following will apply: The term of office of each of the Directors shall be two (2) years and thereafter until his/her successor has been elected. At the first annual meeting of the members after the organizational meeting the Chapter, four (4) to six (6) Directors shall be nominated and elected for terms expiring two (2) years from the date of the annual meeting, and three (3) to five (5) Directors shall be nominated and elected for terms expiring one (1) year from the date of the annual meeting. The purpose of this Section is to provide staggered terms for Directors. Reference to the "Date of the Actual Meeting" is to the annual meeting next following the initial organizational meeting.

Section 1314. The Elected Officials shall have the control and general management of the affairs and business of the Chapter. Such Board of Directors shall in all cases act as a Board, convene regularly, and by a majority vote of the members present, they may adopt such rules and regulations for the conduction of meetings and the management of the Chapter as they deem proper, not inconsistent with these Bylaws and the laws of the State in which the Chapter is incorporated.

Section 1315. Immediately following the Chapter’s annual membership meeting, and at such times as the Board of Directors may determine, the Board of Directors shall convene and conduct business as necessary. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by the President, Secretary, or Treasurer at any time, and shall be called by the President or the Secretary upon written request of three (3) members of the Board of Directors. Special meetings will require a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the Board of Directors for any action.

Section 1316. All officers of the Chapter shall be elected annually prior to the National Convention and/or Annual Meeting by the general membership at the annual meeting. Such officers will hold office for one (1) year or until their successors are duly elected.

Section 1317. At any meeting of the Board of Directors, three or more members present shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Each Director is to have one (1) vote.

Section 1318. Vacancies in the Board of Directors occurring between annual meetings shall be filled, until the next annual meeting, by a majority concurrence of the remaining Directors.

Section 1319. One or more of the members of the Board of Directors may be removed, at any time by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the members of the Chapter present at any special meeting called as prescribed in Section 1315.

Section 1320. The Board of Directors may remove any officer by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the majority present, at any time for just cause.

Section 1321. Chapter Secretaries shall promptly notify the State Chapter, State President, and the National Headquarters of the names and addresses of the Officers installed whenever they occur.

Section 1322. The duties of Chapter Officers shall be defined in the Bylaws and shall be consistent with the duties outlined in Article Six (6).

Section 1323. In all business transactions the Chapter shall comply with the laws and ordinances of the county, State, and City in which the Chapter is located.

Section 1324. The National Headquarters of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., shall not be responsible or liable financially or otherwise for the operation or management of any club or business venture sponsored or endorsed by a Chapter of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc.

Section 1325. All Chapters, or members of the Chapter of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., conducting business enterprises, including clubs, halls, or other activities, the nature of which implies or is contingent upon membership in the Association, shall prominently display a notice in a manner and size to be conspicuous, as follows:

"This club (enterprise) is incorporated under the laws of the State of ________________ It is a non-profit organization under the sponsorship of the State __________________ Chapter____________ of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., and members thereof. The National Headquarters of the American Military Retirees Association, Inc., assumes no financial responsibility or liability of the Specific State of Chapter involved.

Section 1326. Any contract, lease, purchase, and sales agreement, entered into by any Chapter or State of this Association shall contain a clause, in writing, specifically excluding any and all obligation and liability of the National Association. It shall be the sole obligation and liability of the specific State or Chapter involved.

Section 1327. Each Chapter shall appoint a Committee of at least three (3) and no more than five (5) members in good standing who shall investigate and screen all applications for membership into the Association. Race, religion, or sex shall not be cause for disqualifying an application for membership. This committee will be under the Chairmanship of that member of the Board of Directors who is responsible for the recruitment of new members. Completed and approved applications will be forwarded to the National Headquarters for processing.

STANDING RULE 1

Installation Procedures of AMRA

1. At the prescribed time the PRESIDENT will open the Installation ceremonies with appropriate remarks. He/She will ask those present to refrain from smoking or drinking while the BIBLE is open. Rap gavel and say, "This meeting will come to order."

(a) At the sound of the gavel, the SERGEANT-AT-ARMS will say, "Mr. President, I make a motion that we dispense with the regular order of business and proceed with the installation of officers.

(b) Motion seconded.

(c) PRESIDENT states, "A motion has been made and seconded that we dispense with the regular order of business and proceed with the installation of officers. All those in favor signify by saying "AYE" Those Opposed? The "Ayes" have it".

2. The PRESIDENT will rap the gavel and say "SERGEANT-AT-ARMS, escort the CHAPLAIN to the rostrum. All present please rise."

3. The CHAPLAIN will present the BIBLE to the rostrum. He/She will light the candles and give opening prayer.

4. The PRESIDENT will lead the assembly in Pledge of Allegiance. Rap gavel and say, "All present please be seated."

5. If the PRESIDENT is not the Installing Officer, the PRESIDENT will then ask the SERGEANT-AT-ARMS to present the CHAPLAIN to the rostrum. The SERGEANTAT-ARMS then returns to his/her station.

6. The Installing Officer will direct the SERGEANT-AT-ARMS to present the elected officers to be installed. The SERGEANT-AT-ARMS will escort each officer as his/her name is called and place him/her in position, with regard to his/her elected office. SERGEANT-AT-ARMS will say: "All Officers are in position and ready to be installed Sir."

7. The Installing Officer will then direct that the newly elected officers take one step forward.

8. The Installing Officer will place his/her left hand on the BIBLE, and hold up his/her right hand. Each elected officer will place his/her left hand on the shoulder of the man in front of him/her and hold up his/her right hand. The PRESIDENT ELECT will place his/her left hand on the BIBLE. The Oath of Office will be repeated as given by the Installing Officer.

Oath of Office

(Elected and Appointed)

9. The following Oath of Office is to be read in its entirety by the installing officer with a required response from those being installed:

“I solemnly promise to discharge the duties of the AMRA office I have been elected or appointed to.  I will uphold the Constitution and Bylaws of the Association. I will, to the best of my ability, do all within my power to promote harmony, efficiency, and to be ever watchful of AMRA’s present and future interests.  I will, at the close of the term to which I have been elected/appointed, or sooner if so ordered by proper authority, deliver to the person or persons entitled to receive such, all books, monies, papers, records, or other property in my possession, or under my control, belonging to the Association.  All this I freely promise upon my honor as a true citizen of this great country, so help me GOD.”

If you agree to uphold the responsibilities as indicated in the oath, respond by saying, I will.

(Installing Officer)

I now proclaim the officers duly installed and this unit in full operational order for the ensuing year.

10. The SERGEANT-AT-ARMS will direct the newly installed officer to take two steps back.

11. The Installing Officer will request the Chaplain to close the BIBLE and guard it with respect and reverence it being the HOLY WORD OF GOD. The CHAPLAIN will then extinguish the candles and return to his/her station.

12. The Installing Officer will say, "SERGEANT-AT-ARMS, escort the newly installed PRESIDENT to the rostrum."

13. The Installing Officer will hand the gavel to the new PRESIDENT and say, "I give you this gavel to conduct the closing ceremonies for the evening."

14. The new PRESIDENT will direct the SERGEANT-AT-ARMS to escort the Installing Officer to a place of honor. He/She will further direct that he/she escorts the remaining installed officers from the floor.

15. The new PRESIDENT will give an acceptance speech and cite other matters as appropriate.

16. The new PRESIDENT will then introduce the PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT and direct the SERGEANT-AT-ARMS to escort him/her to the rostrum. The PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT will then give a speech concerning the Association accomplishments and other appropriate matters during the year. The new PRESIDENT will then direct the SERGEANT-AT-ARMS to escort the PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT back to his/her seat.

17. The PRESIDENT will introduce the MASTER OF CEREMONIES and have him/her escorted to the rostrum by the SERGEANT-AT-ARMS to conduct and proceed with the evening program. Then the SERGEANT-AT-ARMS will escort the new PRESIDENT to his/her seat.

18. The MASTER of CEREMONIES will introduce the dignitaries and guest speaker.

19. Following evening activities, the MASTER of CEREMONIES will call on the PRESIDENT to close the meeting.

STANDING RULE 2A

State/Chapter Membership Oath

The State or Chapter President should administer the following oath to all newly accepted applicants:

(PRESIDENT) "Raise your right hand and repeat after me, I (state name) do solemnly swear to uphold the five principles (Article II- A, B, C, D, & E) of the American Military Retirees Association and follow the Bylaws of State and National Chapters. I do further swear to obey Chapter House Rules as laid down by the House committees. I do further pledge that I am in one of the four categories of membership eligibility."

The President will then direct the Recording Secretary to make an entry in the minutes of the meeting concerned: "The following members were sworn to membership in accordance with Standing Rule 2A." Then list new members.

STANDING RULE 2B

Oath in Absentia

Where it is impossible for new applicants to attend in person to be sworn to membership, the membership oath may be reduced to writing and signed by a newly accepted member. A record of the receipt of the signed oath will be made in the minutes of the meeting following the receipt of the written oath under "Correspondence" with the following members in accordance with Standing Rule 2B. Then list names.

STANDING RULE 3

Mode of Dress

The Association has adopted a mode of dress to be worn on appropriate occasions by members. No member shall be required to purchase the clothing described below against his/her will:

1. Blazer, university type, dark blue in color, with AMRA insignia patch on the left breast pocket.

2. Trousers, of quality, medium gray.

3. Shoes, oxford, black or brown.

4. Tie, four-in-hand, dark blue with a 2” AMRA patch sewn onto the tie 6” from the bottom of the tie to the bottom of the patch.

5. Shirt, white, dress.

6. Headpiece, overseas hat, as designated by the Board of Directors. The hat is to have a 2” AMRA patch applied to the front left hand corner.  Also, on the left it is to bear the letters AMRA, and name of the appropriate State.  Chapter and office on right hand side.

7. Pins with your official AMRA title (available at National Headquarters) shall be worn above the breast pocket opening of your blazer.

STANDING RULE 4A

National Dues

Standing Rule 4 is subject to change due to the financial needs of the Association. The National assessment shall be the amount prescribed by the National Board of Directors at its annual meeting. When the individual Chapter so desires, it shall be their right to raise the annual dues to a reasonable amount beyond the current dollar assessment. Changes to the National assessment will become effective after ninety (90) days notice.

STANDING RULE 4B

Reimbursable Expenses

General Expenses:  Expenses which have prior approval of Chapter/State/National Headquarters may be reimbursed by the appropriate Chapter/State/National Treasury.

Travel Expenses:  A mileage expense stipend will be authorized for meetings called by the National President to include Annual Board of Directors Meetings, National Executive Committee Meetings, or any official special meetings.  Prior to travel, all requests for any reimbursements must be presented to the Executive Director for approval. Only the Executive Director, the National President or Vice President are authorized to approve travel expense reimbursement requests.  When necessary, travel reimbursement requests may be presented directly to either the National President or the Vice President for approval. 

After travel is completed, a voucher for payment must be submitted to the National Treasurer or National President or the Executive Director for review.  If the voucher meets the travel guidelines outlined below it will be submitted for payment.  All stipends will be paid using the following guidelines:

Regardless of the mode of transportation, the stipend will be paid for travel only to attend AMRA authorized meetings.

The stipend will not be paid, if travel is made in conjunction while traveling to attend functions of other organizations for which travel expenses (or a stipend) is paid by the organization to attend their function.  The stipend will only be paid to ONE person if two or more people travel together in a personal or rented vehicle.

The stipend payment categories are as follows:

STANDING RULE 5

National Prayers

(a.) Opening

Almighty God, Guide for all mankind, we thank you for bringing us safely together at this time.

We praise you for the things that endure, for the guidance of your wisdom, for the faith that makes men loyal, for the ideals that call men to honorable service and for the comradeship of this Association to which we belong.

We ask your counsel during our deliberations, and pray that our decisions and actions may be worthy of your approval. To this end we ask your blessing upon us at this time. Amen.

(b.) George Washington's Prayer

Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that Thou will keep the United States of America in thy holy protection, that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the Untied States at large.

And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were characteristic of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation.

Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(c.) Closing

Eternal God, friend of your followers, you are great beyond our understanding and knowledge, and the number of your days is beyond our comprehension, yet you do not age nor does your strength fail. We whose lives are all too short, and fail thee all too often, lift up our hearts in hope, trusting with devotion that knows no limits. We now commit ourselves unto your care and keeping until we meet again. Amen.

(d.) SHORT FORM OF SERVICE: Prayer for the Departed

Almighty and Eternal God, our Heavenly Father, from whom we come and to whom we return as we do know they will, we offer thanks for having known these companions who have moved from this earthly pilgrimage. We hope that they have an eternal home with thee. As we commit them into your keeping we do so in a spirit of faith and courage, not sorrowing without hope, but in thankful remembrance of your goodness and hope of a joyful reunion from which we shall be separated no more. Amen.

(e.) LONG FORM OF SERVICE: Prayer for the Departed

Chaplain, "Let us pray,"

Lord of all life Who lives forever, Thou hast taught us the measure of our days. We are strangers with thee and sojourners as our fathers were. Our days are as shadow and there is none abiding. But Thou abidest. Thy years fail not, Thou changeth never. A thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past and as a watch in the night The grass withereth, the flower fadeth, but Thy word endureth forever and therein is our help and hope.

Hear now the sorrows of those who mourn. Touch their tired hearts with healing, protect them with Thy care. Keep clean and bright in memory the splendid flames that now has flickered out and shelter us with thy compassion.

Accept the pledges of our hearts and increase the purpose of our souls. Draw for us from the departed increased devotion to the best and noblest things of life. Join us with him/her in communion with the goodly fellowship of those who fell in freedom's cause, with the martyrs of all ages who died to defend the rights of free peoples and the good faith of nations. Join us with those who suffered and strove mightily that righteousness might prevail and liberty endure and finally, join us with those whose daily lives are in offering to duty and their native land. Inspire us by their examples so to live that we may die worthy of their sacrifice. Amen.

STANDING RULE 6

Final Authority for Chapters and States

Regarding all policy and administrative procedures of State or Chapters, AMRA National Headquarters will provide guidance and instructions, and will exercise final authority over any chapter and/or state if a disagreement cannot be resolved within the chapter and/or state, or with AMRA National Headquarters.