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  Serving America In War and Peace |
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Serving America In War and Peace |
COMBAT MEDIC ASSOCIATION Incorporated
Post Office Box 73806, Fort Bragg NC 28307
CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE 1 NAME
Section I.
The name of this organization shall be COMBAT MEDIC ASSOCIATION Inc, hereafter
referred to as the Association.
Section II.
The Association is registered with the Internal Revenue Service and the state of
North Carolina as a non-profit organization.
ARTICLE II AUTHORITY
The Association is incorporated under and operated in accordance with the laws
of the State of North Carolina and this Constitution. The National Headquarters
is located at 3313 Granville Drive Fayetteville North Carolina.
ARTICLE III PURPOSE
The purposes for which this group is formed are:
A. To unite fraternally and further develop the common bond existing between all
Military Medical Personnel past and present. Our membership is open to all
Military Veterans, Active Duty Personnel, members of the National Guard and
Reserve that have been awarded one or more of the following;
The CMB (Combat Medic Badge)
Special Forces Medics (18D or 91B Series)
The EFMB (Expert Field Medical Badge)
Any Citation for Valor (while serving as a Medic)
POW Medal (while serving as a Medic)
Or Served or serving as;
Member Dust Off Team
Navy Corpsman (who served in combat and /or aboard ship)
B. To establish Combat Medic Association Chapters throughout the United States
and other countries when US and Host Nation Law permits.
C. To offer our services in casualty treatment in the event of; terrorist attack
or any other national or local disaster.
D. To maintain close liaison with active duty Medical Units. To recognize
outstanding achievements by appropriate presentations to members or students of
said units
E. To be of assistance and service in matters pertaining to Veterans matters.
F. To perpetuate the memory of our missing or deceased Veterans.
G. To acquire and maintain a place of meeting for its members and their invited
guests.
H. To maintain records and publish the history and achievements of the Combat
Medic Association.
I. To do and perform such matters and things as are allowed by law and may be
reasonably convenient or necessary to attain the objects and ends for which it
was organized as herein above set forth.
In way of explanation and not limitation of the above designated objects and
purposes of this organization, it shall be the policy of the organization, by
and through its Officers, Board of Directors, and general membership, to do all
things necessary under the laws of the State of North Carolina and the United
States of America to insure that the Combat Medic Association shall qualify for
and continue to be a non-profit organization, accorded a tax exempt status by
the State of North Carolina and by the United States of America.
ARTICLE IV MEMBERSHIP
Section II: Qualification
A. Membership in the Association is open to all who qualify under ARTICLE III A.
Membership is
open to all, without regard to race, creed, national origin, sex, age, or
handicap. Members in the
Association shall consist of five (4) classes, as follows:
1. Regular Member : Any person that is qualified under Section III A is eligible
for membership in the Combat Medic Association. An applicant for membership
shall first file with the Secretary of the Association on such forms as shall,
from time to time be prescribed by the Board of Directors, accompanied by
payment in full of the then current dues. Dues are payable on a year to year or
3 year basis.
2. Life Member: Any member person that is qualified under Section III A is
eligible for membership in the Association. An applicant for Life Membership
shall first file with the Secretary of the Association on such forms as shall,
from time to time be prescribed by the Board of Directors, accompanied by
payment in full of the then current dues. Such applicant shall become a Member
or Life Member on approval of the application by any member of the Board of
Directors. No applicant, having made proper application and possessing the
foregoing qualifications shall be denied membership in the Association,
providing, however, that the Board of Directors may, in its discretion, refuse
membership to any applicant who at any time during or since their service, had
been guilty of any conduct unbecoming a member of the Combat Medic Association.
3. Associate Members: Associate membership may be granted to any person not
meeting membership requirements who has contributed significantly to the support
of the Combat Medic Association in the accomplishment of its mission.
Applications for associate membership are subject to the approval of the Board
of Directors. Associate Members are dues paying members.
4. Honorary Members: Any person whose life and activities has fostered the
Combat Medic Association ideals, may be granted an HONORARY MEMBER of the
Association by majority vote of the Board of Directors. Any member of the
association may propose a candidate for Honorary Membership by written
recommendation to the Board of Directors, outlining detailed qualifications of
the candidate. Any Honorary Membership may be withdrawn by a majority vote of
the Board of Directors at a duly-constituted Board meeting. Honorary Members do
not pay dues.
Section III Rights and Privileges
A. Universal Rights Individual members regardless of type may, at the membership
rate, attend any meeting, convention, or social gathering sponsored by the
Association or its Chapters. They may contribute ideas and suggestions which
might further the purpose of the Association. They may wear the CMA Patch, lapel
pin, and any other emblem or device approved by the Association. They are
entitled to carry the Association’s membership card and other items that have
been sanctioned by the Association.
B. Voting Privileges: Regular Members and Life Members of the Association shall
be entitled to one vote on each matter submitted to the vote of the membership
by mail or at any Association body at which the member is present and his or her
vote is requested. Associate and Honorary do not have voting privileges.
C. Office Holding Rights. Only Regular Members and Life Members in good standing
are eligible to hold elected office. All members to include Honorary and
Associate members, may serve on any Association or Chapter committee or ad hoc
body.
Section IV Obligation of Membership
By acceptance of the Association's certificate of membership, each member agrees
to abide by its governing documents, work toward achievement of its purposes,
and act in accordance with its precepts. A member who fails to do so may have
his or her membership suspended or revoked. Section V. Admission to Membership.
A. Regular Membership. An individual applies for membership with the official
application form. The application may be submitted through a chapter or sent
directly to Association Headquarters. Documentary proof of membership
eligibility qualification must accompany the application. Approval by the
Association Membership Committee constitutes admission to the Association. The
Membership Committee shall have the right to reject the application of persons
whose activities are considered to be not in the best interest of the
Association.
B . Life Membership. A member in good standing may apply for life membership by
submitting a letter requesting this action. Approval by the Association
Membership Committee constitutes admission to life member status. The Membership
Committee may confer life member status to the preceding president of the
Association.
C. Associate Members: Associate membership may be granted to any person not
meeting membership by a written recommendation to the Association Membership
Committee. The recommendation must cite specific examples wherein the candidate
has contributed significantly to the Combat Medic Association and how he would
add to the prestige of the Association. Upon approval of the Association
Officers, the Membership Committee confers Associate Member status.
D. Honorary Membership. Chapters or members may propose a candidate for Honorary
membership by a written recommendation to the Association Membership Committee.
The recommendation must cite specific examples wherein the candidate has
contributed significantly to Combat Medic Associations and how he would add to
the prestige of the Association. Upon approval of the Association officers, the
Membership Committee confers Honorary member status.
Section VI Appeals Panel.
An applicant who in refused membership may appeal in writing to an Appeals
Panel. Consisting of the Association officers or a quorum thereof.
Section VII. Termination of Membership.
A. Membership in the Association is terminated through resignations, expulsion,
or non-payment of dues. (For non-payment of dues see Article IV, Section IX.)
Resignation or expulsion of Chapter members will be the responsibility of the
duly elected officers of each Chapter. Members-at-large will be the
responsibility of the Association. The President of the Association will appoint
a five member panel (preferably at large members) to investigate and bing about
a decision as to suspension or expulsion of at-large members.
B. Resignation of membership must be in writing and sent to the President. Upon
receipt of such written resignation, the president must present the resignation
to the Officers at their next scheduled meeting. Upon approval of the
resignation, one copy will be affixed to and become a permanent portion of the
minutes of that meeting. Chapters will forward to the Association one copy of
the aforementioned documents.
C. Falsification or misrepresentation in an application; violation of Section IV
of Article IV; or any arbitrary actions, deeds, or behavior, by a member which
brings discredit, humiliation, or embarrassment upon the Association or any
Chapter shall be grounds for expulsion from the Association. A member expelled
forfeits all dues and all fees paid prior to expulsion. Any members charging a
member or members with grounds for expulsion must substantiate such charges.
D. A member may be suspended from engaging in any or all Association activities
while undergoing investigations stemming from any charges arising from
violations as outlined in paragraph C of this section.
E. A member suspended or expelled may request a hearing before the Appeals
Panel. Any and/or all reports of investigations, or other written reports,
documents, tapes, or any other information or witnesses must be made available
in their entirety to the Appeals Panel. The judgement of the Appeals Panel is
final. Section VIII. Lapsed Member
Any member whose current dues are not paid before the expiration of the grace
period provided in this Constitution is a lapsed member. A lapsed member Is not
a member in good standing and forfeits all membership rights until such a time
as he or she is reinstated. (See Article IV, Section Ill. Universal Rights)
Section IX. Dues and Fees
A. Regular Member Dues Annual dues (currently $20 for 1 year, or $50 foe 3
years), as set by the Association officers and published in the Association̓s
literature, are payable December 31 for the ensuing calendar year. Members who
have not paid their dues thirty days after 31 December automatically become
lapsed members. New members and annual dues paying members who pay dues, or
application fees after October 1st are credited with dues paid for the following
calendar year. Monies must be submitted with an application for membership; if
the application is not accepted, the monies are returned to the applicant.
B. Application Fee An application fee (currently $0) set by the Association
officers is payable upon application for membership. If the application is not
accepted the fee is returned to the applicant. The Association officers may
suspend this fee for membership drives and approved occasions. Honorary members
are not required to pay an application fee.
C. Life Membership Fee. A member who is in good standing can obtain Life
membership by paying a fee (currently $100) if his or her written application is
approved by the Association Membership Committee. The fee is returned if the
application is not accepted. A qualified new applicant may obtain a Life
membership by paying a fee set by the Association Officers in the same manner as
other dues and fees.
D. Reinstatement Fee. A member who fails to pay his renewal dues within the 30
days grace period and who subsequently wishes to be readmitted pays a
reinstatement fee (currently $5) as set by the Association Officers, in addition
to a full year̓s dues. For a limited period or in individual cases, the
reinstatement fee may be waived as the Association Officers may direct.
ARTICLE V
POWERS and CONSTRAINTS
Section I. Powers
The powers of the Association reside in its members. These powers are exercised
on behalf of the membership by the elected governing body, the Association
Officers, of which a quorum shall be not less than two-thirds, one of which must
be the president or vice president.
Section II. Constraints.
The Association is nonprofit, nonsectarian, and nonpartisan. It cannot endorse
or disparage a commercial enterprise, a political platform, or a candidate for
office.
Section III. Use of Name.
The Association name, insignia, title of its publication (MEDIC), and other
distinguishing items, singly or in combination, may be used only by persons
authorized by the Association and only for Association purposes.
ARTICLE VI
OFFICER and CHAPTER REPRESENTATIVES
Section I. Association Officers
The Association officers govern the Association during their two year term in
office. Association officers are elected from the voting membership by a
majority of all votes cast during the election year. Elections are held during
the month of June, every two years. The officers serve without compensation, but
the president, with approval of the Association officers, may authorize travel
expenses for the conduct of Association affairs. The Association officers
consist of six voting members: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer,
Assistant Secretary, and Assistant Treasurer.
Section II. Chapter Representative.
Each Chapter shall elect or appoint one chapter member to serve as their Chapter
Representative. The elected or appointed representative must be a member in good
standing. The elected or appointed representative shall keep in close contact
with the Association Officers and Headquarters by mail, phone, or personal
contact, to be abreast of Association activities and present the views and
comments of their respective Chapters, as well as better understanding of policy
and management of the Association.
Section III. Duties of Association Officers:
A. President. Exercises general supervision over the affairs of the Association;
calls meetings; presides at meetings of the Association; and is an ex-officio
member of all Association Committees. He will:
(1) Represent the Association at all functions in which the Association is
invited to participate.
(2) Introduce events in which the Association is sponsoring.
(3) Presides as host at all Association functions.
(4) Makes presentations in behalf of the Association.
(5) Appoints and fills vacancies of all ad hoc or special committees.
(6) Participates in activities that will enhance the status of the Association
and its members.
B. Vice President. The vice president assumes the duties of the President in the
absence or incapacity of the President and performs such other duties as the
President may assign. He will coordinate all social functions in which National
Headquarters may be involved. In the event a function is hosted by a Chapter,
the Vice President makes contact with the Host Chapter to coordinate, plan, and
assist the Chapter with items which the Association Headquarters may wish to
incorporate, i.e., guest speakers, speeches, presentations, etc. The Vice
President will report to the Association Officers on the progress of all
activities in which Association Headquarters or other Chapters may have an
interest. The Vice President will scrutinize all activity reports, minutes, or
summary of minutes from the Chapters and then report all significant information
to the Association Officers. He will contact the Chapters who do not respond.
(See Article IX, Section IV, paragraph E, subparagraph 5 and 8.) The Vice
President assumes the additional duties of Director of Plans and Programs and is
responsible for preparing plans and programs that will provide for the orderly
expansion and improvement of the Association. He is chairman of the Constitution
Committee and any other committee he forms to carry out his responsibilities. He
also selects the members of the committees he heads.
C. Secretary. The secretary keeps minutes for all Association meetings. He
distributes these as prescribed by the president and appropriate regulations.
The Secretary conducts official correspondence, signs official documents,
maintains records so that they are available at any time to the President or
Chapter Representatives and performs such other duties as the President may
assign. The Secretary assumes additional duties as the Director of the
Membership Committee and is responsible for ensuring a continued growth in
membership of the Association. In addition, the Secretary is Chairman of the
Membership Committee and selects its members.
D. Treasurer. The treasurer supervises the Association̓s fiscal affairs by (1)
accepting all monies for the Association and keeping a just and accurate account
of funds; (2) maintaining books and records so that they can be inspected at any
time by the President or any auditor named by the President; (3) ensuring that
the Association̓s books are audited annually including all separately maintained
funds. The Association̓s audit will be conducted by an independent auditor
requested by the President; (4) authorizing disbursements; (5) maintaining an
annual account of chapter finances and authorizing dues refunds and other types
of rebates to Chapters; (6) submitting to the President and Association Officers
a monthly statement of the Associations̓s financial status; (7) ensuring the
Association̓s checks are signed by two Association Officers; and (8) preparing
records that are necessary to account properly for monies of the Association.
The Treasurer assumes the duties as the Director of Finance, is Chairman of the
Finance Committee and selects its members.
E. Assistant Secretary. The Associations Assistant Secretary assists the
Secretary and assumes the duties of the Secretary in the absence or incapacity
of the latter. He or she performs such duties as the President or Secretary may
assign. He or she assumes the duties of Director of Publicity and shall be
responsible for all publicity of the Association. The Assistant Secretary is
Chairman of the Publicity Committee and selects its members. He or she ensures
that coordination is made with the Party Committee and various Ad Hoc Committees
for proper photographic, radio, newspaper, and television coverage of an
Association event. He or she ensures that alt other news releases to the media,
except those stated above, are released with the President of the Association's
approval only.
F. Assistant Treasurer. The Assistant Treasurer assists the Treasurer and
assumes the duties of the Treasurer in the absence or incapacity of the latter.
He or she also performs such duties as the President or Treasurer may direct.
The Assistant Treasurer is Chairman of the Tellers Committee and Nominating
Committee and selects its members.
Section IV, Terms of Office
The Association Officers are elected to serve a two year period in office, the
tern, to begin on the first day of the month of July during the election year.
The President may not be elected to serve more than two consecutive tern’s in
office. Other Association Officers may serve multiple elected terms in office.
Section V. Vacancies.
Any Association officer vacancy that occurs during their term of office will be
filled by a presidential appointment with the approval of the remaining
Association Officers. Vacancy of the office of President will be filled by the
Vice President, and a Vice President appointed as aforementioned.
Section VI. Removal.
If the conduct of an Association Officer is such that the Association as a whole
feels it is necessary to suspend his or her authority, the President will
appoint a special committee to hear and review his or her case. The person to be
suspended must be served personally or by registered mail with a notice
containing a statement of the charges against him or her and specifying the time
and place of a hearing before the special committee; this notice must be
received at least ten days before the hearing. At the hearing, the accused may
be represented by counsel and must be allowed to confront his accusers. The
special committee's recommendations must be sustained by two-thirds vote of the
Association Officers.
Section VII. Appointed Officers:
A. Chaplain: A Chaplain of the Association is to be appointed by the Board of
Directors to serve permanently in this capacity. The Chaplain will conduct the
memorial service at the annual Banquet and carry out such duties incidental to
this office. The Chaplain could be a member of the Board of Directors.
B. Historian: A Historian shall be appointed by the Board of Directors for an
unspecified term and shall be responsible for maintaining custody of all
historical records, documents, and memorabilia acquired by the Association. He
shall compile from those records or other authentic sources a written historical
narrative of the history of the Association and its activities and
accomplishments, and provide it to the Board of Directors at the annual Banquet.
1. The Historian could be a member of the Board of Directors, with additional
duties to apprize the Board on those pertinent matters concerning the Combat
Medic Association history.
2. The Historian shall maintain close liaison with the curators of local and
national museums.
C. Sergeant-at-Arms: The Sergeant-at-Arms is appointed by the President and
shall be the custodian of the National colors, Association Flag, and other
heraldry items of the Association and will insure they are properly displayed
during meetings or other occasions as required. He will be responsible for
establishing, equipping, and training honor and color guards representing the
Association.
D. Newsletter Editor: A Newsletter editor shall be appointed by the President
for an unspecified term and a member of the Board of Directors, without vote.
The Editor will carry out those aims and purposes, the Association shall publish
the Association newsletter, MEDIC. The Editor shall be under the direct
supervision of the President.
E. Internet Web-Master: The Web-Master will carry out our aims and purposes, the
Combat Medic Association on the CMA’s Web Site, www.combatmedic.org The web
master shall be appointed by the President.
ARTICLE VII COMMITTEES
Section I. Establishment.
The President and Association Officers establish Committees to take charge of
specific work areas.
Section II. Types of Committees.
A. Finance Committee. The Finance Committee prepares the coming year's budget
and makes recommendations concerning the current budget. It is responsible for
formulating the most advantageous methods for handling such funds as the
Association may have available for investment. This responsibility includes the
investment of current surplus funds and the development of a long range
portfolio.
B. Membership Committee. The Membership Committee promotes membership in the
Association. It establishes membership processing procedures subject to
Association Officers approval. It works with all Chapters and maintains contact
with unaffiliated members.
C. Publicity Committee. The Publicity Committee generates and coordinates
publicity for the Association. It reviews the Associations publications, MEDIC,
Chapter publications, and makes recommendations concerning their publication. It
approves the format and appearance of Association publications, and provides
guidance and assistance in their production as required. The Publicity Committee
prescribes the proper use of the Associations symbol on all Association and
Chapter publication.
D. Constitution Committee. The Constitution Committee advises the President on
matters associated with the Association's governing documents and periodically
reviews their adequacy. It formulates amendments and submits these to the
Association Officers with recommendations. It also reviews other pertinent
literature and printed matter for consistency with the Association's governing
documents. At least one member of the Constitution Committee must be a past
president of the Association.
E. Nominating Committee. (See Article VIII, Section I, paragraphs B, C, D, E,
and F.)
F. Tellers Committee. (See Article VIII, Section I, paragraph G.)
G. Board of Trustees . When applicable, the Association President shall appoint
a Board of Trustees consisting of seven members to manage the affairs and
business of the Association Building(s) and grounds. The appointed members shall
consist of a Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, arid members.
Duties, procedures, and responsibilities of each member, to include separate
accountability of funds, shall be spelled Out under a special memorandum signed
by the Association President. The Board of Trustees Chairman shall attend all
Association Officers meetings.
H. Continuing Education Committee: A Continuing Education Committee shall
consist of a Chairman and
as many members as the Chairman of said committee determines is needed to
maintain said program.
I. Disaster Response Committee. A Disaster Response Committee shall be composed
of as many members the Chairman of said committee determines is needed to
accomplish its mission. The committee will establish a plan of action to react
in the shortest time possible to any terrorist or other situation that cause
casualties among the civilian population of the United States. In addition said
committee will submit to the Board of Directors;
1. A plan by which our members can maintain individual proficiency of their
medical skills.
2. A plan for a continuing education program. The plan should contain, but not
limited to:
a. Current Military techniques in the treatment and management
of combat / field casualties, to include evacuation.
b. Current communication procedures between Military and Civilian treatment
facilities within the disaster area.
J. Special Committees. Special committees may be formed by the President to
perform particular tasks. Once that requirement is satisfied or the tasks are
performed, the committee will be disbanded.
ARTICLE VIII ELECTIONS
Section I. General Elections.
A. Time of Election. Association Officers are elected each two years in
September. A preliminary slate is announced to all voting members not later than
April. Nominations by petition must reach the Nominating Committee by May. The
final slate and ballots are mailed to all voting members by May. The votes are
tabulated at least one week before the Inaugural Ball. The Nominating Committee
sets specific dates each election year and instructs the voters accordingly.
B. Nominating Committee. The Nominating Committee is responsible for the
selection of candidates qualified for the six Association elective Offices for
the conduct of the election. It consists of four persons; the current
Association Assistant Treasurer and three other persons who are not office
holders. The committee is responsible for the preparation of the preliminary
slate, final slate, and ballot. The Nominating Committee also handles
nominations by petition from the membership.
C. Selection and Evaluation of Candidates. The Nominating Committee request
names of candidates to be considered for election from each Chapter and, as it
deems appropriate, contacts individual Association members for recommendations.
Qualified candidates are asked to submit a statement of availability.
D. Preparation and Distribution of Preliminary Slate At a date established by
the Nominating Committee, all candidates who have agreed to serve if elected,
are evaluated for specific positions on the slate. The preliminary slate is
prepared and announced to all voting members with instructions pertaining to
nomination by petition.
E. Nomination by Petition. Additional candidates for any elective office may be
nominated by petition of at least three percent of the eligible voting members.
The persons membership number and full name must by typed or printed adjacent to
the signature. The petition must be accompanied by the candidates signed
statement of acceptance. The name of any candidate who is qualified must appear
on the final slate and ballot.
F. Preparation of Final Slate and Ballot. The Nominating Committee prepares the
final slate and ballot and distributes the ballot to all voting members by mail.
For unopposed candidates, the ballot offers a “yes” or “no” choice. Voting
instruction will specify the day on which ballots must be returned to National
Headquarters to be counted and will also require the voter̓s name, membership
number, and signature to be shown on the bottom of the ballot.
G. Count of Vote and Announcement of Results. The Tellers Committee wilt
validate election ballots while protecting the identity of the voters, count and
record the vote, and announce the results of the election. Candidates are
elected by plurality of votes cast. A tie vote is resolved by a majority of the
Association officers voting for one of the candidates. If the unopposed
candidate receives fewer affirmative than negative votes, that office will be
declared vacant. The chairman of the Tellers Committee will promptly notify the
president and all candidates of the total votes cast for the various candidates.
He will also make the official announcement of elected candidates during the
Inaugural Ball ceremonies at the annual CMA Convention.
H. Chapter Elections. The Chapter elections shall be held in accordance with
Article VI, Sections I and I. Removal of, or vacancies filled, shall be
conducted in accordance with Article VI, Sections VI and VII.
Section II. Voting on Ballots other than Election.
Voting on matters other than the election is made part of the general election
except when the Association Officers, by a majority vote, call for a special
ballot. (For example, constitutional amendments.)
Section III. Special Ballot.
When the Association Officers direct that a special ballot be conducted on some
matter of concern to the membership, Association Headquarters will prepare and
distribute the ballot. Instructions pertaining to the voting on such special
ballots shall be given at the discretion of the Association Officers. The
Tellers Committee will comply with Article VIII, Section I, paragraph G.
ARTICLE IX CHAPTERS
Section I. Definition and Purpose.
A Chapter is a group of members who live, work, or are stationed in a particular
locality and who, as a matter of geographic convenience, organize themselves to
promote the purposes of the Combat Medic Association cooperatively. Chapters can
engage only in activities that conform to the Association̓s purposes.
Section II. Formation.
To establish a Chapter, fifteen or more voting members must submit a written
application to Association Headquarters. A name and address of each signatory to
such an application must be typed or printed adjacent to the signature. The
application will state the name of the new Chapter and name the temporary
Officers. Association Headquarters will validate the application and present it
to the Association Officers for approval. Upon approval, the Chapter is granted
Provisional Status. Provisional Status extends for at least two years. During
that period, the Chapter̓s progress and health are monitored Closely by the
Association Officers. After the Provisional Chapter has demonstrated its health
and vitality to the satisfaction of the Association Officers, it̓s assigned
permanent status. A Provisional Chapter operates in the same manner as a
Chapter.
Section III. Operational Relationship with Association.
A. Membership. Only Association members in good standing may be Chapter members.
All residing, working, or stationed within the approved area are assigned to
that Chapter. However, a member may request a Chapter affiliation of his choice
where there is more than one Chapter to which he or she could be assigned, or
request not to be affiliated with a Chapter. A member of a Chapter who moves,
transfers, etc., may remain a member of that Chapter or join another Chapter in
his area. A member may belong to only one Chapter at a time.
B. Association Contact. The Association maintains contact with all Chapters by
(1) providing names and other information of members assigned to each Chapter,
reassigned to other Chapters, or terminated; (2) sending dues, refunds and other
rebates; (3) sending news and minutes of Association meetings within 45 days;
(4) provides constitutions, by-laws assistance, certificates of membership,
membership cards, lapel pins, badges, and other items necessary for the
efficient management of the Association operation while supporting the Chapters
and the membership. The Chapters maintain contact with the Association by (1)
advising the Association promptly of the names of its newly elected or
terminated Officers; (2) furnishing progress information as requested; (3)
providing names of departed members and current status of members, including any
change of address; (4) submitting minutes of meeting.. Submitting information
for The MEDIC publication and (6)submitting an end of year report. February of
each year.
C. Constraints. A chapter under local rules and procedures that are not
consistent with the governing documents of the Association; any variations from
the governing documents must be cleared through and by the Association
Constitution Committee and approved by the Association Officers prior to
adoption. A Chapter must not charge Chapter dues, but with specific approval of
the Association Officers may levy local assessments, provided these are not
called dues and have no bearing on membership.
The Chapter must not obligate the Association to any financial or other
commitment nor use the Association̓s name without Chapter designation. If a
Chapter persists in actions that are not in the best interests of the
Association, the Association Officers may by a two thirds vote take any action
it deems proper. Such action may be appealed to the Association Officers and,
after reconfirmation of the Association Officers action, to the annual
convention for membership determination.
D. Dissolution. The Association Officers may by a two-thirds vote dissolve a
Chapter when it is satisfied that the Chapter is inactive and that there is no
reasonable hope of its immediate revival, or when it is satisfied that such
action is in the best interest of the Association. Chapter dissolution does not
affect Association membership status of the members assigned to such a Chapter.
Members of a dissolved Chapter are assigned unaffiliated Status or are assigned
to another Chapter, if one exists in the general region. Upon dissolution,
residual Chapter funds and property revert to the Association.
Section IV. Operation.
A. Name. The Chapter name is selected by a two-thirds vote at a business meeting
of the Chapter, a quorum being present Written notification of the motion to
change the name must be given to all Chapter members at least two weeks before
the vote. The Association Headquarters must approve a Chapter’s name change.
B. Areas. The Chapter areas are proposed by the original organizers and approved
by the Association Officers. Any change to the area must be submitted to the
Association Officers for approval.
C. Management. The Chapter membership is represented by elected Chapter Officers
with powers to take whatever legal and proper actions are necessary for the
fulfillment of the Association̓s purposes.
D. Chapter Officers. Chapter Officers include at least a President, Vice
President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Chapter Officers meet at the request of the
President or at the request of two of the Officers. A majority of the Chapter
Officers constitutes a quorum. If the Chapter Officers decide by majority vote
that more than four Officers are required to operate efficiently, it is
permissible to propose at a Chapter membership meeting or by any other means
deemed appropriate to increase the number of elected Officers, specifying the
titles and duties of such Officers, If the proposal is accepted by two-thirds
vote of those present (all members having been notified prior to the meeting),
it becomes a rule of the Chapter̓s operation. Conversely, the membership of a
Chapter may agree by two-thirds vote to have the office of Secretary and
Treasurer filled by the same individual. Vacancies in the Chapter offices are
filled by majority vote of the remaining Chapter Officers.
E. Responsibilities. The Chapter President as head of the Chapter Officers is
responsible for all operations. He delegates duties to other Officers and to
Committee Chairmen whom he appoints. The following responsibilities must be
discharged:
(1) Regularly scheduled program meetings for the membership.
(2) Recruitment of new members and membership processing.
(3) Regular meetings of chapter officers to handle the chapter̓s business. (4)
Fiscal control by means of approved budgets and expenditures, and fiscal
operations in accordance with subsection H below.
(5) Activity reports are submitted to Association Headquarters by 15 February
each year.
(6) Year end fiscal reports are submitted to Association Headquarters by 15
February each year.
(7) Elections are conducted by the Chapter Nominating Committee in accordance
with
subsection F below.
(8) A copy of the Chapter minutes or a summary of the Chapter meeting will be
forwarded to Association Headquarters within 15 days after the meeting was held
so that Association Headquarters can be more responsive to the needs of the
Chapters and that the timely information received can be disseminated by local
and Association means to others who may want or need this information, i.e..
Chapter organization days, etc. Lastly, this report gives the Association
Headquarters more up-to-date status of each Chapter.
The following activities are optional but have proved beneficial to chapter
growth:
a. Publication of a regular newsletter to establish communications with Chapter
members and other Chapters.
b. Publicity on the Chapter̓s activities and on the Association.
c. Employment referral services to establish contact between Chapter members and
governmental and
local employers.
F. Chapter Elections. Chapter elections are held in time for the new Officers to
attend the annual convention of the Association as representatives of their
Chapter. The Tellers Committee will handle the elections. The Nominating
Committee will consist of three or five members, at the discretion of the
Chapter president. Either two of three or three of five members of the
Nominating Committee will be elected by the membership. The Nominating Committee
Chairman will be appointed by the Chapter President who will also appoint one
member to a five member Nominating Committee. If Chapter elections are conducted
similarly to Association elections (Article Ill), nominations by petition must
bear the signature of ten percent of the chapter membership. Chapter elections
may be conducted at a regularly scheduled meeting of the membership provided
that a preliminary slate of candidates has been announced to the membership at
least six weeks prior to the date of election, and a final slate of candidates,
if different from the preliminary slate, has been announced at least ten days
prior to the date of election.
G. Chapter Business Meeting. At least one annual chapter business meeting will
be held at which the Chapter Officers and Chapter committees report to the
membership and at which the results of the elections will be announced. A quorum
for transacting business is twenty-five percent of the voting members or twenty
voting members, whichever is fewer.
H. Finances. Chapter funds wilt be deposited in any banking institution that is
a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and in any Savings and
Loan institution that is a member of the Federal Savings and Loan Corporation.
The Chapter Officers can authorize payment of Chapter expenses, funds may be
withdrawn only over the signature of both the Treasurer and either the President
or Vice President. The Association Headquarters provides rebates to Chapters for
each newly recruited member, renewed members, and life members processed by the
Chapter. These rebates are currently $5 for new (1year ) members, $7 for new (3
year) members, and $20 for life memberships.
I. Host Chapter. The host Chapter for the annual CMA convention is selected by
the membership attending the General Membership meeting from bids that meet the
requirements set forth by the CMA Convention SOP. and approved by the
Association Officers. This SOP. contains the following requirements: Article I,
General; Article II, Convention Bids (including a cost analysis); Article III,
Convention Host Requirements; Article IV, Convention Administration; Article V,
Vendors/Concessions; Article VI, Emergency Considerations; Article VII, After
Action Report; Appendix I, Convention Agenda, Meetings and Program; Appendix II,
Banquet Agenda, Seating and Recognition; Appendix Ill, Convention Check List;
Appendix IV, After Action Report Format.
Section V. Ladies Auxiliaries.
Chapters may wish to sponsor Ladies Auxiliaries. Auxiliaries may be formed in
accordance with CMA guidelines. Chapters must follow the guidelines provided by
National Headquarters pertaining to the forming of Ladies Auxiliaries.
ARTICLE X ADMINISTRATION
The Association shall be administered in accordance with the laws of the State
of North Carolina and guidance provided by the elected Officers of the
Association.
ARTICLE Xl MEETINGS
Section I. Association Membership Meetings.
Association membership meetings shall be held at the call of the President or
Vice President but not less than once per year, normally at the annual
convention.
Section II. Association Officer Meetings.
Meetings of the Association Officers shall be held at least once a month and/or
at the cell of the President or Vice President, as required.
Section III. Special Meetings.
A. Special meetings will be called by the President if requested by
three-fourths of the Association Officers or by half of the Chapters. Notice of
such special meetings will be sent to each voting member at least fifteen days
before the date of the meeting.
B. Notice of Meetings. Notice of regular and special meetings shall be given by
the Secretary of the organization, mailing to each member a written notice
thereof specifying the time and place of such
meeting . In case of special meetings, the business to be transacted and no
business other than that included in the notice or incidental thereto will be
transacted at such special meeting. Such notices to be mailed to the last known
address of the individual members, not less than ten days before any such
meeting as they respectively appear upon the books of the organization. Said
information published in the “MEDIC” (the associations official news letter
and/or published on the Associations internet will satisfy the above requirement
and mailing of such. No further notice shall be necessary.
C. Waiver of Notice. Notice of the time, place or purpose of any special meeting
of the membership, required by this Constitution, shall be dispensed with if
every member shall attend such meeting either in person or by proxy, of if every
absent member shall, in writing, file with the records of the meeting, either
before or after the holding thereof, waive such notice.
D. Voting Rights. In all elections of directors of this organization the
following members, and no other, shall be entitled to vote, to wit, Regular and
Life members in good standing, shall be entitled to one vote In any vote of the
membership for the election of a vacancy on the board of directors wherein there
is more than one vacancy, each voting member's ballot must contain a vote for
each vacancy on said board of directors or the same shall be null and void.
E. Proxy Vote. The membership shall have the right to vote by proxy, said proxy
to be in writing, signed by the member in good standing, and delivered to the
Secretary prior to the call of the annual membership meeting. The board of
directors shall be the sole judge as to whether or not the proxy is in proper
form and is to be tabulated with the votes cast at said meeting by the
membership attending. Section IV. Transaction of Business.
The parliamentary procedures, as specified in Roberts Rules of Order, latest
edition, govern business meetings of the Association when they are applicable
and consistent with the governing documents.
A. Guideline;
1. Open meeting ( Invocation-Pledge of Allegiance)
2. Read, amend, (if necessary) and approve minutes of the previous meeting.
3. Read, correct (if necessary), and approve the Treasurer’s report.
4. Officers, Board, and Standing Committee Reports.
5. Special Committee Report.
6. Unfinished Business.
7. New Business.
8. Programs.
9. Good of the order
10. Adjournment
B. Attendance. All meetings are open to anyone wishing to attend, but those
members attending that are not Association Officers cannot vote or participate
in matters before the Association Officers.
C. Involvement. Members who have suggestions, ideas, recommendations, or
complaints must bring them before the Association officers through their chapter
representative, who will in turn send them to the Association officers for
study, research, and recommendations to the president and the membership.
Unaffiliated members must submit suggestions, etc., to the Association officers
in writing for action to be taken. This is done to ensure proper and timely
execution of business. All resolutions to be made at the General Membership
Meeting must be submitted in writing to the National Board of Officers sixty
days prior to the scheduled meeting so that the proper study and research may be
made of the resolution and an information letter sent to all members advising
them of the resolution's contents and implications.
Section V. Time and Place of Meetings.
Time and place of meetings and conventions are determined by the Association
Officers and are publicized to the membership.
Section VI. Record of Meetings.
Minutes of all Association meetings will be recorded by the Secretary or
Assistant Secretary and will indicate members in attendance by number, a summary
of business, transactions, and any pertinent documents considered when
applicable, minutes of Association Officers meetings will be recorded by the
Secretary or Assistant Secretary when matters of other than routine nature are
discussed and acted upon. The Association Officers and Chapters are provided
with a copy of the minutes of the meeting by the Secretary. Minutes of the
meeting must be displayed in a prominent place for the membership to read.
ARTICLE XII FINANCE
Section I. General.
The Association operates on a calendar year basis, January 1 through December 31
of the calendar year. Funds are established for operating purposes and for
reserves. Only banks that are members of the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation or Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation can be used for depositing
Association funds. Approval by two-thirds of the Association Officers is
required to (1) designate reserve units; (2) levy assessments; or (3) change the
dues structure. The President of the Association appoints a five member
Committee to conduct an annual audit of both funds. Section II. Revenue.
The Association derives revenue from annual dues, application fees, life
membership fees, reinstatement fees, sales of items that contain the CMA Logo,
patches, lapel pins and the like, donations, and monies above operating cost
from conventions, parties, and other social functions.
ARTICLE XIII HEADQUARTERS
Section I. Headquarters.
Association Headquarters is established in a designated location where office
space is maintained for the staff. All expenses incurred in the operation of
Headquarters are budgeted annually and are approved by the Association Officers.
Section II. Board of Directors.
A. Number. The Board of Directors shall consist of not less than three nor more
than eleven natural persons. They shall be elected at the annual meeting of the
membership, or at any adjournment thereof.
B. The term of office of the Board of Directors shall be for a period of two
years, or until their office shall be declared vacant, or until their successors
are elected. No term limit shall be imposed.
C. Power of Directors. The Board of Directors shall exercise all of the powers
of the organization, except as such as are by law reserved exclusively for or to
the membership. Nothing in this Article shall prohibit the Board of Directors
from designating and delegating such authority, as in its discretion it deems
advisable, to specific Officers of the organization.
D. Quorum. A majority of the Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum for
the transaction of business, but a director or directors, less than a quorum,
may adjourn any meeting at which a quorum is not present, and no notice of such
adjourned meeting shall be necessary.
E. Meetings of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall meet once
each month during the calendar year, at such time and place designated by
resolution by the Board of Directors. Monthly meetings may be conducted by US
Mail or the Inter-Net if the Chairman of the Board deemed advisable. If a
meeting is conducted by US Mail or the Inter-Net, Board Members will be provided
a Ballet to vote on all matters brought before the Board of Directors for
consideration. A Proxy vote will be acceptable provided the Board Member has a
signed Proxy Ballet on file The board of directors, by resolution, may suspend
any monthly meeting, when they deem advisable; provided, however, that in any
event, the Board of Directors shall meet at least once annually.
F. Vacancies. In case of any vacancy in the Board of Directors or Officer
through death, resignation, disqualification or other cause, except in the case
of removal of a director by the membership as hereinafter provided, the
remaining Directors or Officer, by affirmative vote of the majority thereof, may
elect a successor to hold office for the unexpired portion of the term of the
Director or Officer, whose place shall be vacant and until his successor shall
be elected.
G. Removal of Directors. The membership may at any time for any cause, with or
without cause, at any special meeting duly called with proper notice, remove any
or all of the Board of Directors, and the successor of such directors or
director so removed by the membership shall be forthwith elected by the
membership to hold office for the unexpired portion of the term of the directors
or director so removed and until successors are elected. Section III. Officers.
A. National Officers of this corporation shall be a President, Vice President,
Secretary and Treasurer, and such other officers as may be designated by the
Board of Directors from time to time. These officers shall comprise the
Executive Council of the Board of Directors.
B. The election of the National Officers of the association shall be held at a
special meeting of the Board of Directors, commencing immediately after the
annual membership meeting, said special meeting of the Board of Directors to be
for the specific purpose of electing Officers of the association and no other
purpose. The Officers so elected shall hole office until the next regular annual
meeting of the ‘Board of Directors held immediately after the annual meeting of
the membership and until their successors are elected. Subject however to
removal as herein elsewhere set forth, Any duty to be preformed by an Officer of
this association may be preformed by a duly authorized Assistant Officer.
ARTICLE XIV PUBLICATIONS Section I. News Letter.
The official publication of the Association is “MEDIC”. It is published at least
quarterly and is distributed to members on a worldwide basis. All members are
encouraged to write to the editor of the “MEDIC” so that he/she may be provided
with information and pictures of interest to the membership.
Section II. Chapter Newsletters.
Chapters are authorized, and strongly encouraged, to publish a newsletter to
establish communications with chapter members and other Association Chapters.
ARTICLE XV DISSOLUTION
Section I. General.
Upon notification of dissolution of the Association by the voting membership or
other persons with power to require such dissolution, proper disposition of
funds and property will be made in accordance with the applicable laws of the
State of North Carolina after all outstanding bills and debts have been
liquidated.
ARTICLE XVI ADOPTION
This Constitution is adopted subject to the approval of two-thirds of the
members voting on adoption
ARTICLE XVII ORGANIZATION SEAL
The board of directors shall provide a suitable seal showing the name Combat
Medic Association. When obtained, shall be impressed at the margin of the minute
book containing this Article of the by-laws.
DATE APPROVED: 11 Sep. 2001 AMENDED 1 January 2005
END
Original Signed, Sealed and on File
_______________________
_______________________
President
Secretary
