Message from the commandant

  Semper Fi Marine Brothers and Sisters,

Beginning my second term as Commandant of Detachment 1316, I’ve had time to reflect on everything I’ve done well, and not so well. My approach for 2023 will be to improve on those things I’ve lacked in and capitalize on things done well. Having a year as Commandant under my belt affords me a good base to work with for my second term. Unfortunately I have yet to meet each of you in person. I will work on that this year.

Now that the BOT elections are behind us, we can focus all our energy towards building a stronger future for our Detachment, and the Marine Corps League. We have an outstanding Board of Trustees this year and an even stronger Executive Committee. With those billets firmly established, our goals are to grow our Detachment, strengthen the areas where we’ve been weak, and increase our Community exposure exponentially.

One area we need improve, on a whole, which neither I or the BOT can control, is attendance for meetings and functions. We try to pass the word early enough to gain enthusiasm, have tried to arrange rides for those wanting rides, but attendance still lags. 

So I ask you: “What interests would you like to see or have to spark attendance?” Your thoughts and ideas are important, so please share them with me or any of our Board of Trustees.

We will continue to recruit in 2023 with a goal of 12 or more members this coming year. Regular Membership is open to Marines and FMF Sailors who have worn the Eagle, Globe and Anchor, and Associate Membership is open to all. Please do your part in recruiting for the benefit of our Detachment and the League. We need to prepare for the future with energy, like-mindedness and fresh ideas. 

We still need to enlist a Color Guard Commander, and a Marine for Life Liaison. If anyone is interested let myself or a Board member know. We need you! Also, anyone interested in becoming a member of the Color Guard, sound off! This is a great way to support our Detachment, the City of Rio Rancho, and the Veteran Community.

We have some great events coming up this year. In April the Department Convention will be in Farmington, NM, hosted by Detachment 736. Mark your calendars for 14-16 April.  They are planning a great Convention. Also, 20-24 August will bring our National Convention to the Southwest for the first time in over 10 years! Plan on a fun filled week in Oklahoma City, OK.  Let’s band together, be proud, and make a great showing at National. More information on both events will be forthcoming.

For all you Devil-Dogs; PDD Frankie Rue and PDD Eve Stith have worked tirelessly to get our Pound 342 back on track. They are there and ready to unleash us and we need you. We’ve been strays for far too long!

Semper Fi,

Mike Haas

Commandant