“If you’re for seniors, we’re with you,” TSCL’s Vice Chair Dottie Holmes states with vigor and conviction.  If you’re a Member of Congress, this is what you’ll hear when the TSCL Board of Trustees wraps up a visit to your Congressional office.  If you’re a frequent reader of TSCL’s newsletter, The Social Security & Medicare Advisor, you may read about her days filled with traipsing between Congressional offices, and educating Members of Congress about TSCL and its legislative agenda. 

Behind all of this activity, Ms. Holmes is carefully studying what should receive the TSCL stamp of approval.  She always asks probing questions—whether it’s about supporting a new piece of legislation or donating PAC money to a Member of Congress.  And only the best answers will do for the TSCL grassroots membership.

Ms. Holmes brings impressive credentials to the Board of Trustees.  She was the first female to retire with 30 years continuous service and attain the rank of Chief Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force.  Her military career included tours in Europe, Puerto Rico, Korea and Vietnam.  She also received various service awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal.

Ms. Holmes has held the position of Vice Chairman of TSCL since February 2001.  She and the other Members of the Board of Trustees are volunteers.  They do not receive any compensation for their hard work and dedication.  What she and the TSCL Board do receive is the kudos from Members of Congress.  Recently, for example, Congressman Gil Gutknecht (R-MN) took to the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to praise the TSCL Board’s leadership.

In addition to her responsibilities as TSCL Vice Chair, Ms. Holmes finds time to volunteer for other military-related organizations.  She is a life member of the Disabled Veterans of America, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.

Probably the phrase you’ll hear most if you meet Ms. Holmes is, “You can’t fool this old lady!”  When it comes to protecting the hard-earned benefits of our members, she will not let anyone or anything stand in her way.  Now, isn’t that a reassuring thought!

April 2004