VIEW FROM THE CHARTHOUSE

by Dennis Egge
President, Board of Directors
American Retirees Association

11 January 2009

When the US Supreme Court struck down California's self-proclaimed right to divide Uniformed Service Personnel retired from active duty pay as jointly earned property, on 26 June 1981, the dissenting Justices advised the 97th Congress "this (decision) could create some hardships". That admonition amounted to an opportunity the 97th Congress simply could not refuse. The 97th Congress' Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act (USFSPA) mandate encouraged State jurisdictions, where community property principles are pursued, aggressively, in divorce, by including Uniformed Service Personnel in the target audience, effective, 25 June 1981. . . . .

While the target audience calls for USFSPA repeal, their spouses openly stalk, ambush and abuse them in family court, with Congress' approval. Am I the only one who can imagine how ineffective USFSPA would become, if all targeted personnel were thoroughly trained and equipped to deal effectively with this clear and present threat? Armed with that information they will make informed choices, regarding their nation's call to arms as a profession, while married. If their employers will not provide this urgently needed training, I believe our Charter demands it.

Still serving proudly, Dennis Egge; President, BOD