Q19: Do you think any of the services and programs being done by AOG should be re-evaluated or stopped?

The following are benefits and services provided by the AOG:

	Air travel and vacation packages from WorldTek Travel. Phone 800-243-1723 (24 hours) and mention AOG West Point' for the lowest fares available. Or log on to their web site at www.worldtek.com.
	Member Discounts on: rental cars, hotels, flowers by phone, long distance telephone (home and business) .
	Graduate travel program: cruises, tours, packages (ext 115).
	Real Estate Relocation Service (1-800-353-6396 or aog@gloriod.com)
	AOG Visa, Gold VISA, and Platinum Visa at low interest rates.
	Mastercard and Gold Mastercard at low interest rates (914-446-4946).
	Unsecured line of credit up to $35,000 from Security Pacific (1-800-274-6711).
	AOG publications: Assembly, Register of Graduates, First Call (ext 118)
	Support of Class Reunions and other events (ext 163)
	Class/Society administrative support (mailing lists, labels, bulk mailing) (ext 163)
	Use of the new James K. Herbert Alumni Center
	Telephone/mail order gift shop (ext 121)
	Career Transition/Advisory Services (ext 137, ext 129)
	Free, lifetime membership in the AOG for all graduates of USMA.
	Toll-free telephone access to AOG (1-800-BE A GRAD).
	Graduate locator service (ext 144)
	News You Can Use!

Rhudean Bull 1-800-BE A GRAD (ext 137)
                    -OR-
Morgan Roseborough '66
Director of Alumni Services (ext 129)

The majority of repondents were supportive of what AOG is currently doing.  However, over 650 graduates provided some constructive comments for the AOG.  
 

These responses could generally be divided into the following categories:
 

[001]  1. Accomplish all of the above with much less bureaucracy. 2. Respond to any additional Graduate requests.

[002]  If it is not profitable - get rid of it. With the exception of helping employment efforts. Get out of the following: For example - get out of selling long distance. Providing bank services --- no rentals -- no Focus on core services.

[003]  All of the discounts, travel offers, etc. are ancillary to AOG's purpose and mission and should not be presented "front and center". AUSA, for example, offers similar discounts but doesn't emphasize them as a primary benefit of membership.

[004]  These are 'nice' and secondary but not the reason grads are involved in the AOG. You can get these packages from AARP or business benefits or USAA. Given what I see as the AOG tradition of doing the Sup's bidding, the AOG management then focuses on these as really neat services. They are not.

[005]  Do not understand the "Career" change option and how to access it.

[006]  Do away with the travel related and relocator services.

[007]  I would drop credit card services. I see these as having an inherent conflict of financial interest between the good of members and the good of the AOG itself.

[008]  it is OK, but need to have an effort to be more forward-looking, request support from the field.

[009]  No comment

[010]  Improve the career advisory service

[011]  Please refer to what the class web sites are providing. Consider that these are popping up to fulfill needs that are not otherwise being met. Cost-effective communication among classmates is one. Likewise ask what needs the AOG can take-on which are perhaps beyond the ability of an individual class.

[012]  The first three services are questionable. First, I don't see how they really fit with the mission of AOG. Second, with so many travel agencies and frequent flyer programs, I don't see any real advantage to using AOG. Third, although I don't know the cost to AOG of these services, I would suspect that they aren't worth it. I do support the remainder, which fit with the stated mission and goals of AOG.

[013]  You seem to duplicate USAA in alot of areas. I would concentrate on providing a permanent EMAIL account to all graduates and even cadets. It would function as hotmail and would not take up many resources but would provide you with a way to contact everyone.

[014]  Could you sell West Point gifts on line. Catalog, descriptions , prices, photographs

[015]  I don't find the various discount and financial services to be of personal interest but suppose they cost the AOG little or nothing. No objection if that's so.

[016]  Regarding travel: I thought the travel agency of choice was Camelot travel, tried to use them but found them mediocre. I viewing the list of services, I see it is worldtek, of whom I have never heard. Other services are fine and appreciated.

[017]  I do not need AOG to obtain credit cards, telephone service, rent a cars, or travel services. USAA, AFBA and other service related companies are superb credit card outfits.

[018]  I like the services listed, but feel that they should be promoted better. I was completely unaware of some of them.

[019]  Get out of the business endevours. I get solicitations from an so many telephone suppliers I've lost count. Don't need it from AOG!

[020]  Get out of credit card and car rental business.

[021]  I do think more emphasis should be placed on making the service a career and downplaying the upsides of leaving the service early.

[022]  Travel services, etc. are available to us from many sources. You have to look at use patterns and decide which to retain. The important things are the services only AOG can do, like Assembly.

[023]  Eliminate: Travel services Relocation services Line of credit

[024]  The travel & credit card/discount stuff is not of interest to me, but don't stop on my account if it's cost-benefit indicates otherwise.

[025]  The services are great providing the cost of them is not greater than the value they add either in membership or total services provided to the members of the AOG.

[026]  I would like to see what usage from each of these items and what revenue is derived from them.

[027]  I am very upset about the questionaire I got last year asking me to state my possible 'minority' status. The AOG should be treating all grads alike and providing no services for any that are not for all.

[028]  Ditto on scripting error

[029]  Every outfit we belong to, for whatever reason, has roughly the same benefits==as a former national association executive, I wonder how valuable they are, how many members use them and how much they cost AOG.

[030]  I question the value of the travel, credit cards, and similar programs that seem to detract from support of the Academy, classes, and reunion activities. Perhaps these activities provide a profit to the AOG that can be applied in support of USMA. If that is the case, I support your current activities.

[031]  Make your first service getting the word out on all of the services that are offered - why not a print button on the services window?

[032]  The list appears fine; but, when I have gotten notification of many services, I have run comparisons and find better deals elsewhere.

[033]  The first seven on the list are the least important to me and hopefully the order the services listed is not indicative of the emphasis and resources devoted to them. As a younger graduate, I'm sure I'll utilize some of the travel services when I retire.

[034]  It looks like a commercial list that any organiza- tion or association should be proud of!! I hope all the features make money for the AOG. So far as I know I have used only Publications and Support of class reunions.

[035]  I am amazed that AOG is in the VISA, travel, relocation business. Why when so many other organizations provide the same. Stick to the business of the association.

[036]  Don't really see the value of #'s 1 & 2 (airfare and hotel accomodations). If they cost money to implement my $.02 is to drop them. Every organization I'm a part of has the "same deals".

[037]  MEMBER DISCOUNT (RENTAL CARS, LOANS AND FLOWERS--CURRENTLY, CUSTOMERS CANNOT USE THESE DISCOUNTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH OTHER DISCOUNTS. OFTEN THE OTHER DISCOUNTS ARE MUCH GREATER THAN THE AOG DISCOUNT.

[038]  The list of services looks excellent, but I don't use any of them because 1. I don't need them,2.I've been in civilian life for a long time and have other sources that provide similar services of equal value.

[039]  How does the AOG activly support intercollegiate athletics?

[040]  I don't believe the careeer transition service is used as well as it might. When grads leave the service, they (almost always) contact "head hunters" to assist in their transition. While this works, there are opportunities out there from people who are extremely interested in hiring grads, but who don't use the headhunters (I've advertised positions on the AOG and have had very little (almost no) response). There aren't many positions posted there, and I don't think many people know that it's available.

[041]  Drop all travel, credit card, and discount related services. Most benefits from these programs can be secured through USAA or other affiliations. What is the cost of the free membership to USMA grads? Subject to responses to my above queries, A nominal membership fee under the guise of a donation would be in order. Membership fees could be charged at time of Assembly renewal. Free memberships to Grads would cease after fulfillment of the initial obligation. Then, offer a lifetime mebership similar to the offering of AAA.

[042]  Recommend that a commitee of class representatives address this, as I have little feel for such services.

[043]  Since most of us belong to USAA the services seem to be redundant.

[044]  I would really enjoy having the Register and Business Directory placed online. It's a heck of a lot easier to compile statistics and look up information.

[045]  The travel information we continually receive is interesting, but has to cost someone lots of money (hope it isnot the AOG)/ The chance of me taking one of these expensive cruises is less than nil. Offer a way to get off the mailing list!

[046]  Many of these services are more applicable to AARP or similar "senior citizen" organizations.

[047]  Re-evaluate the financially oriented "services" and concentrate on publications, services to reunions/class admin and fund raising for USMA and the AOG.

[048]  Security Pacific aggressively encourages use of its line of credit. A line of credit should be used sparingly and paid off quickly. Security Pacific, and most credit card companies, do not want their members to do this. I'm not sure why AOG is in the credit sponsoring business.

[049]  Can't really say. Many of the services are available through numerous other methods, eg. travel services, rental discounts etc. I have never used any of them, but I don't have any feel for how many others do.

[050]  Services should be separated from income generating programs. Credit cards, loans, cruises, etc are not unique benefits - they are "junk mail" cluttering up our mailboxes on a daily basis, with the USMA stuff looking like high priced versions of all the rest. AOG " benefits" ought to be just that-unique, clearly articulated links to USMA, class, support for cadets/young graduates and separating AC personnel.

[051]  Whatever

[052]  Not clear why AOG resources are devoted to Relocation Services and Financial Svc. Dilutes focus on core mission.

[053]  None other than being able to order items from the AOG Gift Shop by Internet. If we can, then again, never mind.

[054]  gift shop needs to offer wider variety of "cadet" stuff.

[055]  Is the gift shop on line, with pictures of items for sale, etc.?

[056]  It seems that the majority of the benefits/services offered are similar to what many other banks,credit cards, and other organizations are offering. Thus, I am not sure if these are truly benefits. I have not used the AOG member benefits/services extensively, so maybe this comment is not worthy. However, if the AOG is going to offer benefits/services that are worthwhile, maybe you should consider focusing on some of the current benefits/services currently offered and make them worthy of using--in other words, not something that I can get from any other credit card or bank or organization.

[057]  No objection if AOG is making a profit from travel, charge cards, etc. If cost of AOG staff to monitor is greater than income, delete these services--they are available from many others, e.g. TROA.

[058]  see 17 above

[059]  Graduates need an even more comprehensive contact list for job searches than is currently provided. That is the fastest way you'll get loyalty.

[060]  I have not used the many of the benefits listed. If they are not helping (generating funds for) the core services, then they should be stopped. I consider the the core services to be information dissemination (Assembly, web page), comaradarie between graduates (reunions, clubs), alumni support (career services), and promotion of the Academy and its graduates (recruiting, press, etc.).

[061]  All of these services are great. But can the mailed, open lines of credit have some safeguards? I am concerned about mail not being forwarded and someone else using a line of credit under my name. As they currently arrive to me, all I need to do is sign a form and I get a $100,000 platinum credit card. Again, services are great, but I am uncomfortable with these forms out there in the mail.

[062]  Career services enhanced

[063]  Travel and Commercial Services Credit Cards

[064]  Yes, a broad-based review of these services should be carried out.

[065]  Stop credit card sales, and stuff like that. Deemphasize other fund-raising activities such as cruises.

[066]  Again, more overkiland too much emphasis on commercial services. AOG is starting to look like Sears.

[067]  Stop: Visa and Mastercard--unless there's good reason otherwise--don't believe we should be in financial services business. Plenty of providers without AOG getting in the act.

[068]  Could not open Services window

[069]  Eliminate commercial services; credit cards, travel, line of credit and the like

[070]  How many of the business type serices (long distance, credit cards, etc) are offered through USMA graduate-owned businesses? For example, I know a USMA grad who owns a telecommunications service company, and the long distance rates he offers beat what the AOG offers hands down. Has any thought been given to trying to keep these services within the USMA family? I question this specificly because the AOG seeks funding from USMA grads to fund their programs. Would it make sense for the AOG to show support for businesses owned by graduates?

[071]  The credit cards, travel and rental cars are really not that comparably attractive.

[072]  The financial stuff is not necessary

[073]  stop fund raising. support the mission of producing regular army combat arms officers

[074]  I think the move into career transition/job referral services was a strong step in the right direction.

[075]  I must admit that I was not aware that these services have been provided by the AOG

[076]  Many of the services listed, such as travel planning, are available through other avenues. I assume some, if not all, of these benefit the AOG by paying some form of commission to the AOG when Graduates use these services. To the extent that helps fund other AOG activities, I support it; however, to the extent AOG's focus is blurred by them, I disapprove. Perhaps "Less is More" applies here.

[077]  I tried to use the car rental discounts a while back and was surprized to see that most were for only about 5% - no good deals. I got a better rate through another organization. I do appreciate the fact the you guys are trying and thank you for your work.

[078]  Unable to see list.

[079]  Need to continue to annually to evaluate services and adapt. No new needs now, but we have historically been a little slow to adapt to changing needs.

[080]  I would support all of the items so long as AOG reviews them for compliance with the goals and mission of AOG. If they fall under these guidelines, great. If not, they should be considered for termination.

[081]  I think better publication of services available is needed. There were a number of services listed that I wasn't aware were available.

[082]  Implement a policy directive to support WP-ORG to whatever extent possible. Not control, but support.

[083]  I believe fund raising is out of conrol. I believe there should be a cost benefit analysis of the various fund raising schemes and a determination of what is and should be provided to the academy.

[084]  REEVALUATE: car rentals,air travel, flowers,cruises,tours, real estate locations,credit cards----WHY????

[085]  Yes, I'm constantly frustrated by the exhorbitant costs I must pay because am stationed overseas. Not sure why. JC Penney does not do this to overseas APOs. Why does the AOG gift shop?

[086]  I have never used many of the services such as travel services or rental discounts. Has the AOG evaluated the level of participation in the various benefit programs which are offered?

[087]  Can a packet be sent to members further detailing benefits?

[088]  Does anyone go on the tours? Seem terribly expensive and elitist.

[089]  *Should periodically review activity and/or dollar benefits from each service and drop those that are not providing adequate cost/benefit. *Should do a better job of communicating to members all the services that are presently offered.

[090]  Realize that some graduates have a profession other than combat arms--for example, USMA has up to 25 cadets a year enter medical school, and also has lawyers and other professionals. These people are currently left out of some of your career transitional services' focus. Serve us all--we are all USMA grads.

[091]  1. Career transition services should be expanded more to assist grads obtain employment in private sector. 2. Expand services to internet. 3. Support/link in local societies. 4. Look at partnering with USAA Federal Savings (getting competitive fees/services)....whose membership is mostly military officers.

[092]  The financial benefits are nice but do nothing to describe what the AOG should be all about.

[093]  Credit card issue seems to be a direct WP Fund action. How much does it bring in? Some of the mailings I get for WP memorabilia - grandfather clocks, mantel clocks are not of interest to me.

[094]  tansition assistance needs improvement.

[095]  I, for one, am tired of cruise brochures. The somewhat crass commercial activity is only mildly bothering.

[096]  Credit cards are probably not appropriate. Group discounts for flowers, rental cars, etc.

[097]  We need more emphasis on career networking. We should be able to show the Ivy League and Big 10 schools how to do it. We are moving in the right direction but still have much room for improvement. One way to improve is to inform graduates who can influence hiring in their companies to of the resume and referral services available and tie in the HR departments of those companies.

[098]  Unless the Visa and Mastercard business is financially lucrative for AOG, discontinue that - other military oriented organizations (USAA, etc) offer the same, or better, service, and are probably better suited to do so.

[099]  1. I assume you do many of the activities at the front of the list because of some reimbursement from the vendors. Most of those items can be obtained from other places.

[100]  The AOG does a good job of supporting class reunions and performing mailings. These activities are thankless and transparent to graduates -- complete them and no one notices, but make a mistake and everyone will complain. I also subscribe to the Assembly. However, although I think the AOG has made a good effort at getting discounts for services (particularly rental cars), many graduates are members of more than one group. I am, and I shop around. And other groups seem to ave negotiated better rates.

[101]  See answer to question 17.

[102]  Some of the savings are a joke. I usually rent cars at least 4-6 times a year. Every time this year I pulled out my AOG card, I don't even know why I still carry it in my wallet, AAA (Am Auto Assoc) had a cheaper rate. I feel pretty stupid showing the AOG card and the clerk asks me if I belong to AAA because the rate is less. The AOG card is not good at all locations. At Ft Leonard Wood this Fall, the Hertz dealer at the PX would not accept it for a rental car discount.

[103]  More active sponsorship of local chapter initiatives.

[104]  Have some concern about "free lifetime membership" for all grads...the old adage "you get what you pay for" might apply if insufficient enthusiasm for AOG is a problem...If that's not a problem, please disregard. Currently I run the VII Corps Desert Storm Veterans Ass'n and we have Life Memberships which will enable organization to realiza extra income from fee plus sale of "Life Member specific" merchandise. Same is also part of CGSC Alumni Ass'n on whose Board I serve. True, both still in infancy but history of association management shows above to be frequently valuable income raisers.

[105]  1. Use of the Herbert Alumni Center. When I have an opportunity to visit West Point it is usually on a weekend. On those occasions I have been disappointed to find the Alumni Center closed. I believe the Center should be open on weekends for Alumni to rest and relax whenever they visit their Alma Mater. 2. From my experience, the AOG Visa card has a low introductory interest rate for one year only. After that period the rate becomes non-competitive. USAA and the Pentagon Federal Credit Union, among others, offer much better rates. I would assume that the AOG Mastercard has the same problem.

[106]  Relocation services and travel service not needed if AOG is paying anything for it: you can get this anywhere for free. Maybe a listing of grads in the business would be useful. Continuing to set up alumni travel packages is a good idea (although I haven't used it). What's this free membership? I thought I paid a lifetime membership fee on graduation ... but it was a long time ago and I could be wrong

[107]  I would drop all travel related discount programs depending on the cost to maintain these. I would assume most graduates use other discounts for these services including employee, military, AAA, etc.

[108]  see previous comments

[109]  Stronger business networking.

[110]  Consider my response as "None as I support what the AOG is currently doing." I just wanted to provide comment that it appears you have a lot of services which I was unaware. I was unsuccessful in saving the "services" list as a file but I did get the survey so maybe it is attached there.

[111]  I do not know what amount of cash the auxiliary services such as flowers, cruises, real estate, travel, rental cars etc etc. bring to AOG. But it has been my experience that these services are available directly and less expensivelt. What does the AOG Visa bring in per $$$ spent. I would analyze the cost benefit os such services.

[112]  Security Pacific was swallowed by Bank of America over 4 yrs ago.

[113]  What is "First Call"?

[114]  Forget travel, diecounts, and credit cards

[115]  Where is the service that will help me if I want to promote the ideals of the Academy into my local community? Again, it seems very inwardly focused.

[116]  See answer to question 17 above.

[117]  1. Stop doing Al Haig "puff pieces" and avoid grads selling their books on the founders day circuit. 2. AOG is primarily an East coast activity. Input is measured in relationship to the distance from Wash. DC.

[118]  Continue/expand support to place people leaving active duty in the civilian work force.

[119]  I didn't know you provided all of these services.

[120]  Provide a thank-you letter to graduates who contribute donations to the Academy. I give $30.00 a month and have had no acknowledgement from USMA or AOG..This is very disheartening and sad..As it stands now, I will never contribute a cent in the future after this donation is made..Also, I have relayed my feelings to my classmates and other graduates.

[121]  Most of these services are not useful to me because the quality of service and cost are no better than what I have available through retail channels.

[122]  Most of these services (by type--e.g. credit cards, travel) are both available to anyone who answers their junk mail, and money raisers for AOG. So excuse me if I see no value added. I like the graduate locater, and class/class runion type things. Doesn't anyone at AOG notice that a career center is missing???? Doesn't anyone else have college age children???

[123]  I don't need AOG as: A travel agent A tour / cruise line marketer A bank A credit card issuer Another 'professional', and high overhead cost, fund raiser. Keep the AOG services within the bounds of those which are core to USMA interests and which represent services not generally available.

[124]  I live on the West coast, and visit West Point only very occasionally (always on a weekend). EVERY time (4 tries now) that I tried to get inside of Herbert Hall, it was closed. Herbert Hall should be open on the weekends.

[125]  Need to educate, promote, and market these services better.

[126]  OK, other than stated above

[127]  Go to greater efforts to communicate all those great services. Wow, I don't recall hearing anything about 50% of the services offered!

[128]  See my comment above.

[129]  I appreciate the AOG publications, support of class activities and reunions, and gift shop. I have no use for the other services. Again, the services provided twenty years ago were the important ones--I would have preferred increased emphasis on those rather than expansion to others.

[130]  Come on--are we an association of graduates of the US MILITARY acdemy, or another Visa granting group? Emphasis should be on reunions and individual assistance to grads, not to trips and discounts

[131]  None listed are of personal interest to me though they may be to others.

[132]  Some of the items in the AOG catalog are of poor quality. A West Point logo glued to an unrelated item does not promote a quality image of the Academy. If the AOG is going to sell "academyized" items for revenue, it should exercise a bit more judgment on both quality and appropriateness of the items.

[133]  Undecided

[134]  I do not want or need telephone service, rental cards or credit cards from the AOG. If ot has nothing to do with WP, stop it.

[135]  Drop First Call!!! Waste of time and treasure The rest appear innocous. I am too poor to afford travel programs . I am only going to make one more relocation. And the next, I will not be concerned with.

[136]  The travel services, car discounts, florist, etc are all services that many can get through USAA, and many other means. For AOG to "manage" and provide these (which I have never used) is unnecessary.

[137]  Do the services provided offer the BEST VALUE to the membership? If the AOG is a regional association, then the services should be selected regionally; on the other hand, if the AOG is a GLOBAL association why shouldn't the services reflect this global orientation? Can't we get better pricing and higher quality? Another good book to read is by Jack Stack, THE GREAT GAME OF BUSINESS, ISBN 0-385-47525-X. Jack discusses competition and winning on the biz plane.

[138]  All those "services" before AOG publications should be terminated with the possible exception of cruises and then only if the prices are substantially lower than I can find elsewhere for the same cruise. The rest of these so called services are only thinly disguised money making opportunities that undermine the purpose of the AOG. They generally can be found cheaper and better elsewhere.

[139]  You are frittering away your time. MC and visa deals loans, are available from everyone. Next thing I know you will be trying to sell me a used car. You should concentrate on the basics and what you do best. Reunions, society support, memoriabile (SP), West Point publications.

[140]  If the misc programs (car rentals et al) don't cost AOG anything then leave them. Otherwise scrap them unless you have strong evidence that they cause alumni to act or think differently toward AOG or West Pt.

[141]  See above, the Naval Academy and Air Force Academy seem to have a better approach. I cannot see Cadets painting or performing repairs on their living quarters.

[142]  All travel ,financial, and credit card services could be terminated for me. In fact, I pitch that material without reading it.

[143]  I use none except the reunion support activities, and the Assembly and Register.

[144]  Every college, credit card, fraternity, USAA, et al offer SPECIAL rental car rates, credit card rates, tours, you name it. That stuff, unless it is self-supporting money-wise, could be dropped. The other functions listed are OK.

[145]  Cannot evaluate most of the services that are available from other, more convenient, sources,e.g., travel agency, credit cards, gifts. Suggest stopping any that do not make money.

[146]  Every college, bank, fraternity, et al offers discounted phone rates, credit card rates, rental car rates, tours, etc. Unless these are self-supporting money-wise at AOG, they could be eliminated.

[147]  I wonder about appropriateness of selling tours, etc., but I don't really object --- just wonder. I recognize the money must come from somewhere.

[148]  Things such as credit cards are a wast of time & effort. Discounts on rental cars, and such can beter be gotten through other organizations. Seems like you are duplicating a lot that USAA (most graduates belong to USAA I assume) does better. Trips are fine and the gift shop is OK

[149]  Several of the services listed are also provided by other entities such as USAA. Notwithstanding that I am a USAA employee, I believe that most of our graduates are USAA members and it may be that a partnership with USAA (or other such affinity companies) could provide the same services at less cost and still provide AOG with the same benefits.+

[150]  Stop the following services: air travel & vacation packages; member discounts; Visa; Mastercard; and unsecured line of credit.

[151]  List looks good but recommend "short" AOG updates via class email list servers

[152]  I had no clue that most of these services even existed. I was ignorant of the scope of AOG operations, as I have been "out of the loop" for a considerable time.

[153]  Many of the so called services, such as travel, car rental, visa cards, etc. are clearly primarily to raise funds for AOG and are not really services at all. Parading them as services seems hypocritical.

[154]  Travel Services Member Discounts Crusies and Tours Real Estate Relocation Credit Cards

[155]  Credit card services, long distance telephone services, relocation services, etc. are not necessary, and are oftentimes more costly to unsuspecting members. Unless AOG is realizing significant income from these activities, it would make sense to focus on things that members need instead of providing peripheral services that bring no additional value.

[156]  Need more time to evaluate but it seems to be a kluge of any and all things that don't donate a real apparent service ( maybe it is because I have not used any of them)

[157]  Credit, real estate, and travel are bogus - if these are not significant money-makers for AOG then I see no reason to use them. AOG should increase efforts for networking between grads - perhaps cooperatively with wp.org. The AOG should be the FIRST place a grad goes if he/she is looking for a job or looking for a hire. Fund-raising efforts should continue or increase. Use the net as a more effective info distribution system!

[158]  Offer sales of recreational travel other than luxury tours/cruises. (Motorcycle tours, nature tours, wilderness tours, ski vacations, etc.)

[159]  The top seven are worthless and detract from the ability to focus on other things

[160]  As related to comments in question 17, not to many social services for former graduates or their families.

[161]  My first reaction is that the order of items on the list is all wrong. Real alumni activities should be given more emphasis.

[162]  Free lifetime membership should be reevaluated. Things given away free are often perceived to have no value. Membership should be priced so as to reflect its value.

[163]  RE-EVALUATE ALL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS.

[164]  I believe that a reevaluation from time to time would be helpful to determine the time/cost effectiveness of the various services.

[165]  I question the wisdom of getting involved in the dissemination of credit cards and the personal assumption of debt by AOG members.

[166]  I think that "First Call" has been pretty unimpressive, and ought to have either more timely news (to fill in the time between "Assemblies") or it should be dropped.

[167]  PS-I hope you hold on to COL Roseborough;he is one of the best assets you have. I do not know the man personally, but he is great to deal with and follows through on his commitments! Also, I have been out of touch with the AOG on a lot of things and did not know you had as many things going as you do; my apologies.

[168]  If the mission of the AOG is to further the welfare of USMA, as differentiated from graduates of USMA, it's not clear to me why the AOG provides these services. On the other hand, if the mission is to improve the welfare of both the institution AND its graduates, then the mission statement should say that.

[169]  Be careful that AOG does not just become a travel agency, with an annual trip/gift catalog. AOG should find out what members think, and not be an outlet for extension of administration policies, which, I am afraid, have become too soft and "touchy-feely"

[170]  STop all these discounts which really aren't discounts. Waste of time as almost anyone can get as good or better discounts through other methods. Especially dumb is the real estate, telephone service, credit card services, which all compete with USAA -- Dumb! Next thing one knows one will be offering investment services in competition with those that do it primarily. From personal expereince I found the transition assistance program to be WORTHLESS and have actively told that to other alumni to save their funds.

[171]  As a frequent employer of USMA grads, I think that the job bank service is broken and should probably be abandoned. Recruiters do this job better than AOG ever will.

[172]  I'm leary of #1, #2, #3, #5, #6, and #7. These may be worthwhile and may even be money-makers for the AOG. But, there are any number of providers willing to sell you these services. Services should concentrate on providing a specific service or commodity to the graduate - finding jobs, info about the job market, info about USMA, info about AOG, locator services, etc.

[173]  I have found that USMA AOG does not offer good enough car rental discounts. I use another professional organization's discount number.

[174]  It actually is a very nice list of benifits.

[175]  Provide more support for Class Reunions: templates for hotel contracts, transportation contracts, etc.

[176]  your biggest competitor is USAA. many of us use these same services from USAA

[177]  Long Distance Service should be deleted, at least from my perspective. I work for AT&T, not the service provider you selected. As a result I feel somewhat alienated from AOG. I do not necessarily desire to send financial support when AOG actively promotes my competition. Perhaps certain services should be re-evaluated. For alumni like me, AOG is not accomplishing its goals for me, i.e. pride in membership, etc.

[178]  Depends on the cost - if monies are being used to run a travel business that does not add or to accomplishment of stated goals then these dollars could be better used somewhere else.

[179]  All are sources of revenue and are not covered by the mission statement. See previous comments.

[180]  However, I never use any of these things.

[181]  Don't need to bother with financial services, credit cards or travel.

[182]  It was my understanding that these services are always re evaluated and that the AOG tries to offer its alumni the best that they can.

[183]  We all need to return to "Character" building rather than "money" and "personal gain".

[184]  Career search services should be enhanced

[185]  I was not aware of some of these services. Recommend that you advertise them more; perhaps you should distribute a flyer to all members detailing the services.

[186]  Ithink that the AOG must avoid commercial exploitation, ie, credit cards, etc. if not done very carefully. USAA has crossed the line, and the AOG must make sure it is not compromised by shilling for other commercial entities.

[187]  Get rid of all those profit making funsctions that have no bearing on the ultimate good of West Point. You don't help graduates by arranging travel. You charge more than your competitors and use the surcharge to sens your brass on travel perks. I know. I was on a cruise and found out I could have saved money if I had bought my ticket through a bona-fide travel agent. You will never do this because you are out to MAKE MONEY and pay big salaries and perks. In short cut your fuction out except for those that benefit USMA or the grads, not the AOG staff.

[188]  Support to the reunions at the academy is very important. I had heard that the 50th reunion class will not be able to stay at Hotel Thayer. If this is true, that would be a shame to have our "oldest" class be in the travel mode. Perhaps the AOG can get the extension of the Thayer off the dime since that would assist in facilitating reunion scheduling.

[189]  I find it a little too commercially oriented.

[190]  I'm having problems here. I'll have to think about it. Don't call me...I'll call/email you when I'm ready to respond more definitively.

[191]  Eliminate all services down to: o AOG publications: Assembly, Register of Graduates, First Call (ext 118) I don't see these as the "core business" of the AOG. (I have a dozen places all offering me the same services.) On the other hand, I support them if they make money for the AOG (such as the credit cards).

[192]  Great job.

[193]  Survey misfired, could not bring up list. I do not believe vital to continue car rental, etc, programs, but if AOG considers the money worthwhile, no objection.

[194]  Get out of the businesses that are not part of your core competency. That's a basic to good management. Therefore, get out of the travel agency business, the credit card business, etc. I always throw away your junk mail on this stuff, and frankly find it annoying. The West Point Gift Catalog is a good idea. So are special offers such as the Chess Set, Grandfather Clock, etc., because the feature the West Point logo and instill pride of ownership. The other stuff is a waste of postage.

[195]  I have access to most of these services through other means such as USAA, credit union, bank, etc. I look to AOG to provide those unique services tied to West Point unless you are providing a benefit to Alumni greater than that available to the public at large. Unless your travel service is better, your rental cars cheaper, etc, I don't see how it helps the institution or its grads.

[196]  While I have never used any of the services available I can not help believe that by doing so we are scratching our own graduates backs with minimal benefit to the AOG and the instituition as a whole.

[197]  Delete: Graduate travel program: cruises, tours, packages.

[198]  Current list is good. You should also consider a Pre-Paid Legal Services Plan. I'm currently an Independent Associate for Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc., the leading company providing such services. For $16-25/mo, members can enjoy unlimited phone consultations, document review, letters/phone calls from providing attorney, traffic court representation, IRS Audit representation, 50 hrs of trial defense support, and a 25% reduction on normal fees for any other services required. If interested in additional info, let me know. (916)988-4916/FAX 916/989-8274.

[199]  Voice of conscience to the Supe.

[200]  These things are nice. I get much of the same service from AAA. With many VA programs under attack - shouldn't AOG support it's members in this arena as well - even if it meant initiating a political action committee/fund through member contributions.

[201]  I think the reunions, publications, and graduate location services are outstadning and right on the mark. I question the real estate, credit cards, and travel services. It seems the time and resources spend on these functions could be better used to directly inrpove USMA and the graduates connection to our alma mater.

[202]  I had no idea! Am I a lifetime member, in that I am not a grad (I did receive the notification e-mail re. this survey)? What, if anything additional on my part, is required for membership?

[203]  The career placement arena might be better than when I separated from active duty in 1991, but I wrote to six or seven WP Society officers in selected cities and received only one reply. When I again contacted the lone respondent, he, too, failed to contact me again. Needless to say, I was seriously disgruntled with the WP Society "network" and have not been involved in any manner since then. (I do have a friend in another part of the country who has been very active, and who has had quite the opposite experience.)

[204]  I really don't use most of the services you offer. What is the difference between OAG travel services and any other travel agent?

[205]  I would need to evaluate them from a 'how often used' point of view. Personally, I use none of them. However, if other members derive benenfit form them that justifies the expense the services.

[206]  All of the travel, credit card, loan programs and other "services" that are readily available through commercial vendors is a waste of AOG's time and efforts and reflects the lack of focus and prioritizing of activities I have previously mentioned.

[207]  What the AOG does is fine. That building was a waste of money. We visited it at our 50th and found it to be a glorified office building with no facilities for visitors.

[208]  Up to the AOG publications, I see the services as gimmicks, nice services but not as important as the ones listed from publications on. The product/services ties probably also provide AOG with income which gets back to your apparent focus. Your important services are the ones the ones from Publications on.

[209]  The answer to this question would have to be based on how much AOG spends on the various services, and how often they are used.

[210]  USMA Credit Card is not a good deal. USAA has better rates.

[211]  I have never used the services -- but will.

[212]  I do not use any travel , credit card or other type services. unless there is substantial financial benefit to AOG, terminate. this commercial type activity cheapens the assn

[213]  I do not use your commercial "services." If they are making money for the AOG, they should continue. If they are not making money for us, stop them.

[214]  Credit cards

[215]  Past coordination and assistance on class reunions at USMA by AOG has been poor

[216]  Almost all the services listed are some form of money maker for th AOG. I guess they necessary to fund the "services". Just a comment.

[217]  Cut out all the discounts for car rentals,tours , etc. I can get better deals elsewhere.

[218]  Relocation service Travel service This is such a sideline activity that I feel AOG would benefit by eliminating them and focusing on the other services. The credit card at least provides financial support to AOG, but is it enough to continue the program?

[219]  REal Estate Relocation Services

[220]  All the ones that are duplicated by TROA and USAA. The thicket of car rental discounts, VISA cards, travel cruises, etc. grows day-by-day. Are these just revenue producers for AOG that help pay for the staff?

[221]  The list is essentially the same as AARP, AAA, TROA and numerous other organizations. Are we spending money duplicating benefits that are available to the vast majority of grads through some other association?

[222]  I have seen a nice increase in computer communication, but I would like to see more. It would be nice to provide a service, similar to the Assembly, where graduates are informed by the AOG of Academy happenings via e-mail.

[223]  Real Estate Relocation Service

[224]  line of credit

[225]  Order Gift Shop should also be available through the internet

[226]  it's OK as far as it goes. Not much real substance.

[227]  Unless it brings in a significant amount of money, I suggest elimination of the VISA cards. The field is too competitive now. I have two credit cards through military affiliates on which I pay NO annual fee. One pays me back over $100/yr. They are quite satisfactory. Eliminate FREE lifetime membership for grads. While this may look good statistically, it violates the adage that one tends to value those things for which he has expended some (resource). The quality of the membership would be enhanced I believe.

[228]  The broad range of activities seems to "dilute" what the real focus should be. However, I realize many of these "side programs" generate funds to support the Academy. Therefore, I support what the AOG is doing, I just wanted to clarify the point.

[229]  In my view AOG has become a conduit for various consumer marketing ventures (credit cards, car rentals, etc). To me this cheapens the association and turns it into little more than just another telemarketer trying to make a buck. I cannot take the AOG seriously until it leaves "husksterism" behind and focuses its attention on issues of more significant and lasting importance.

[230]  Travl, credit cards, ie anything beside core biz of supporting USMA, and graduate activities such as reunions and communications. Let commercial organizations like USAA handle the rest.

[231]  If it is a service, it should be done without financial benefit to the organiztion, or any other individual or company, including grads UNLESS it is clearly spelled out that this connection or profit link exists.

[232]  The buying serices seem of little value Improve the reunion support

[233]  I could do without the mailings I receive on cruises and tours. Also, the relocation service is N/A for me

[234]  Real Estate Relocation Services are probably done thru a RELO type company. To my knowledge there is no effort or means to refer this business to USMA graduates who are Realtors. Thus, AOG is in competion with some of it's own members.

[235]  The Gift Shop should be a complete Web site of its own with online ordering. Either AOG, or through contracting with WP-ORG, should develop and provide a whole range of Internet based software, services, training (including at West Point) aimed at getting 100% of all living graduates online and in touch with each other, AOGs functions, and West Point. By email, web access, video conferencing, internet voice phone. Younger classes are familiar with computer networking; older classes have the greater need for it, and those retired have the time. If AOG did as much in quality online publication as it now does in costly print and mailings, it would, over time (1) reach more (2) at lower cost than now (3) and get more graduate involvement. I ONLY participate now, because I can do so online. Pretty as the costly brochures are that I have recieved over the years, I have responded to very few, because I live in the networked world, not the world of print and travel. And the older the graduate gets the more valuable this form of communications and contact can be.

[236]  I reviewed list - its not bad. Actually had to use it a couple of years ago to locate someone.

[237]  Seems like the AOG is pushing too many gimmics--USAA has done the same thing. Need to take care the gimmics don't become drivers of the organization.

[238]  All commercial services that involve credit cards, discounts on car rentals and similar activities, lines of credit, relocation, and the like should be discontinued. These kinds of services are touted routinely by every organization and have very limited value. I would be surprised to learn that many AOG members take advantage of these kinds of services.

[239]  A small group of us were considering having a promotion party at the Alumni center (informal and about 100 people). We were quoted $470 (chairs and hall) to hold our event. I am a donating member and was surprised at the price. Are we providing a service to our members in good standing or trying to turn a profit in areas like this?

[240]  Just a question. . . . .one benefit listed is lifetime AOG membership for all USMA grads. Is this a change in policy? It is my recollection that we (Class of '78) had to JOIN and PAY a fee, either at a lower rate for annual membership or a higher rate for lifetime. Please explain.

[241]  Heavy emphasis on "CAREER TRANSITION" support. Less concern with VISA cards, travel programs, discounts, which are duplicated and surpassed by other available sources.

[242]  Travel and trivial services should be evaluated to determine if they bring in enough $$ to pay the salary of the staff added to support them. I find the cruises to be prohibitively expensive, therefore, another service for our wealthiest grads.

[243]  Free,lifetime membership for USMA grads????

[244]  Free lifetime AOG membership for graduates. The graduates of an institution, if they support and agree with the goals, ideals and work of that institution, should support that institution fiscally and in other ways. The fee for AOG membership is a small and reasonable fee.

[245]  I recommend dropping all services that compete with those offered by USAA (ie tourism packages, real estate services, buying services). I expect that over 90% of your membership are USAA members and would select USAA over any offering from AOG.

[246]  yes - is AOG a social organization or an organization to further the ideals of West Point? It appears most services are directed to furthering social aims such as trips/vacations, finances (credit cards..), and other non-ideals functions. Suggest emphasizing alumni unification, locator services, issues and discussions of political issues affecting the military, todays graduates, retirement benefits, organizing for lobbying on such issues, discussion groups, computer AOG bullitin boards on siad issues, garnering political support from congressional representatives, coordination with military service retirement communities like TROA (the retired Officers Association) to bring about political and finacial clout on political issues affecting todays West Point Officers...... In otherwords, get active as an alumni organization should looking out for their current and future graduates.

[247]  You can drop these: Real Estate Relocation Service (1-800-353-6396 or aog@gloriod.com) AOG Visa, Gold VISA, and Platinum Visa at low interest rates. Mastercard and Gold Mastercard at low interest rates (914-446-4946). Unsecured line of credit up to $35,000 from Security Pacific (1-800-274-6711).

[248]  At our 20th reunion there was very litte USMA support and no AOG support. I'd recommend regional reunions as there's little point to getting together at USMA since virtually all functions take place off USMA property anyway.

[249]  It seems to me that the AOG is getting too commercial, but you do need to raise money and most graduates do not contribute heavily.

[250]  Stop the junk mail and unsolicited telephone calls. This organization should be more professional than other tele-marketers.

[251]  Some convenience services seem out of focus with the mission.

[252]  My conmputer would not display services. I had no trouble in displaying the goals.

[253]  I do think that the direct & indirect costs to AOG of providing each service should be examined and a determination made as to whether the money would be better spent supporting other AOG goals.

[254]  Member Discounts - all! Visa and Mastercard and telephone discounts.

[255]  Eliminate the travel programs, insurance, Visa cards etc. Concentrate on DIRECT support to grads like the publications, assisting with reunions, running the Alumni Center.

[256]  Services are far too broad, and tend to dilute the focus of the AOG. Most of the services mail is treated as junk mail - never makes into the house.

[257]  It is degrading to offer services and programs that are offered cheaper by other firms. The commercialization of AOG cheapens the whole organization. Put resources into keeping grads in touch and communications with their classes, and provide resources to provide the info to grads that they desire. Do not be afraid of controversy in Assembly and in open discussions on the internet.

[258]  I can't comment on whether travel services, etc are actually most beneficial for "members", but think those type services are nice. (I haven't used them).

[259]  Comment: Review all in light of the AOG and USMA mission. Any of the things now done are fine, but some, if the require much of any support, are questionable: credit cards, real estate relocation service, etc.

[260]  I would not want to see non-grads (ex-cadets) given these services, except to be covered by the locator service, if an ex-cadet should so desire. If this were done, interested ex-cadets would be required to pay some suitable fee(s) to be listed (as ex-cadets).

[261]  Don't care about most of them. I do have a Platinum VISA card, though.

[262]  On line shopping for AOG items (in addition to what is offered currently) better information as to what is available. First time I've seen the list.

[263]  I guess just send out a message on what types of jobs we can get through AOG.

[264]  AOG Gift shop is too expensive.

[265]  The career transition website I saw was very poor. I am getting out in a year and it would be nice to have a database of grad resources and grad-owned companies to contact.

[266]  Didn't come up on screen. Unable to find.

[267]  Get AOG out of travel business and charge card business. It profanes their purpose, and it probably detracts from other activities which should receive organizational focus.

[268]  Most of the "benefits" that I receive in the mail appear to be overpriced and on the extreme edge of how I might like to spend my limited discretionary income.

[269]  It's all based on usage. Those that are not being utilized should be ended or changed.

[270]  Most of these are news to me. They need to be better marketed to the membership or at least to me.

[271]  I have used very few of these services; consequently, I cannot comment on their usefulness.

[272]  I question the AOG involvement in activities that are not 'core compentencies' and do not support the mission of AOG. Specifically, flowers, rentals cars, MC/Visa, and all "SERVICE OFFERINGS" which have nothing to do with the Academy, or the AOG, but provide a means for Service Providers to use our Academy, logo, and image to sell their products. I know this isn't free. We are reselling the service for a fee. I don't think that is in the spirit of the mission, or the Academy. When I think of Hertz, National, Mastercard, or VISA I don't think of DUTY, HONOR, COUNTRY, WEST POINT, 1802. I think we have sold out. It cheapens the image of the Academy.

[273]  This question is too generic. You might want to consider issuing a separate survey on this issue with specific suggestions.

[274]  None of the finger pointing items will activate when clicked double clicked etc. Thus I can't really answer these questions

[275]  Seth, This survey is taking a long time to fill out. I don't really see the reason for it. As far as I'm concerned, the AOG is doing a lot, and you're doing great. Whether that's because I'm a classmate or not makes no difference. Happy Holidays! Kim

[276]  Can not view services

[277]  Are these really "Benefits"? I see lists like this many times and find that they are in reality only a means of raising funds and are of little if any "Benefit" to the user.

[278]  For some reason, the sevices will not come up for me. I have Java, but I'm not getting a reaction.

[279]  Although I don't use many of the AOG services, I think that if there are enough people using them to support the cost, then don't stop any of them. The above comment refers mainly to the consumer and financial services (flowers, car rental, credit card, etc.). One area where I have noticed shortcomings is in the SABRD. Although I have neither used the directory nor attended any of the conferences (I am in law school and have used the placement office at school), I borrowed the SABRD from a Navy alumnus in the area to look at it. I know that the directory's accuracy is a function of graduates willingness to complete the forms, but I found it to be missing many people. I looked to see if the SABRD listed attorneys in the various cities that I had interviewed in (Washington, Atlanta, Charlotte, Raleigh, Winston-Salem) and noticed that the directory did not list many of the Academy graduates that I knew were practicing law in those cities. I am not sure, however, what you can do about that. If people don't want to take the time to fill out the forms, then there is not much you can do.

[280]  Credit card, travel, and car rental services, etc. should only be continued if they represent an income stream for the AOG.

[281]  I notice that most of the travel packages offered seem to be more expensive than offers from the carriers.

[282]  Unable to open window showing services, or to print it. However, as Class President I receive various correspondence that identifies these. I think that they have to be related to the goals discussed above, but, I also think that it would be nice if the average graduate sometimes received mail from the AOG that wasn't asking for money or selling something. I also dislike the use people make of directories and the Register for mailing lists. This being abused. I also dislike reading adds in ASSEMBLY that are recruiting graduates.

[283]  The list is fine but I have always felt there should be a better line of items in the Gift Shop especially USMA clothing. Ours items should be distinctive but are mostly like any other school.

[284]  Get out of the travel/financial/housing businesses. It fosters the perception that the AOG is in business for profit on graduates. Is the AOG's function to compete with USAA ? I would be more inclined to call AOG for sporting event tickets to West Point games e.g. Army/Navy etc. than real estate info. Again a graduate has no special standing to get a ticket to a football game than anyone on the street.

[285]  Is there still a need for a locator service with the same service available from the Internet?

[286]  Less commercial benefits such as VISA, flowers etc and more targeted to needs as perceived by membership

[287]  See watchdog role mentioned above

[288]  AOG is associated with a travel company as a fund raising effort for AOG. This can be fragmented if each class sets up its own arrangement with travel companies. Perhaps we can have a "profit sharing" arrangement with AOG whereby all classes benefit by some percentage from a central, AOG led arrangement (% based on usage, % based on membership, etc.).

[289]  List looks appropriate, I noted the transition services (which I haven't seen listed elsewhere) and intent to check-out to offer transition assistance.

[290]  The first seven items are unnecessary, to me personally. However, if they provide income to the AOG that helps it supply the services that actually deal with USMA classes and Academy related support, then they are understandable. Who knows, when I retire and no longer have such services available to me through work associations, I may come shopping at the AOG "services" store.

[291]  N/A

[292]  More emphasis on career transition is warranted

[293]  Get rid of the credit card service unless it gives air miles

[294]  I think your expaned list of services over the past few years had been a real plus. Keep it up.

[295]  I would prioritize them in the reverse order in which you list them. They would be better presented if the order was reversed.

[296]  don't know why the credit programs exist. They don't provide any better rates than other banks.

[297]  Couldn't get the services window to open.....

[298]  Most of what is shown appear to be the same stuff as AARP, etc promote and appear to be money makers for AOG. Some might be of use if I was still active.

[299]  Most of these are BS--you can get them anywhere--creditlines, cards, travel discounts, etc.; I can do way better elsewhere. The money spent on the Herbert ediface serves but a few and could have been better spent helping cadets. Where the AOG can help is to focus on the needs of the graduate--it took, for example, years to convince the AOG that career change is a fact of some lives even before 20 years in the service. Better support on reunions (by the way reunions need to focus on West Point not some flea bag hotel outside of NYC--many of us living on the West coast do not get to West Point but 2 or 3 times in our lives after graduation, I'd prefer not to spend it on a boat--could have gone to Annapolis for that--or in a hotel in NJ.) West Point articles such as sweat shirts, tee shirts etc. are important to some graduates--I haven't seen a gift catalog in over 4 years, maybe longer, so a telephone number for a gift shop is usless to me and I do not see it as a service. POINT is the AOG should focus on the needs of the graduates--this does not take a lot of resources. The Academy should focus on the cadet.

[300]  Be careful of expanding the staff etc.

[301]  Travel and relocation: the whole scheme of handling these commercially is in a process of change electronic ticketing and internet purchase of tickets. Major real estate firms are networked across the country to handle moves.

[302]  The first 6 are self-serving money-raisers that are availble from AUSA, AARP, etc. and are inappropriately listed in high priority. For me, support of class reunions, administrative support, career transition, and locator services are more important, and should be the fundamental services of AOG.

[303]  - Why are we in the credit business when USAA does it better?

[304]  It is apparent to me that a great many of the graduates of USMA managed to save or accumulate a lot more money than myself if they can afford the travel packages. If running these trips results in expenses to the AOG, I would favor cancelling them.

[305]  not bad -- focus on the reunions (why can't we get good football seats when there is a biggy -- i can do better at the gate) and trips (parents really enjoyed); internet site is good

[306]  Since I keep receiving advertisements about cruises and trips, I suppose they are satisfactorally supported. For me though the tour packages from USMA and USAA, class reunions at fancy places and gifts from USMA do not hit high in my decision of where I will spend my dollars.

[307]  deemphasize fund raising

[308]  Have no suggestions at present

[309]  For some reason, "services" and programs would not come up on my scree, so I'll skip the appropriate questions.

[310]  no time to check another site, plus complete this survey

[311]  Something that would pertain to networking. Upgrading the speed of the internet server would also be desireable.

[312]  AOG has turned into yet another service type organization more interested in discounts and travel than in the welfare of USMA. This is a new development. I think AOG has lost sight of its raison d'etre. All of the service organizations offer this kind of trivial fluff. Where is the hard core of support?

[313]  Credit card issuance because it duplicates too many programs by others; same for car rental and hotel reservations.

[314]  Perhaps a relationship with American Express would be nice. Their card services are outstanding.

[315]  Reevaluate support to local societies.

[316]  The cruises and special commemoratives are extremely extravagant and appear to be aimed at retired BGs and above and/or retired CEOs or that level of people. Liberals would call them 'elitist' Why can't AOG come up with some more reasonable, practical items and cruises? e.g. Some good sweaters/sweat shirts that say "Army", vice "West Point" with the great Army A and Mule Logo, 3 or 4 or 7-day cruises from the east or west coasts to Mexico, or Hawaii or the Caribbean? Maybe even connected with Founders' Day, or a football Bowl game or a Basketball or Wrestling or Soccer, etc., tourney away from West Point to get support from area Alumni.

[317]  Emphasize support of graduates. If we can show that AOG really has "muscle" it would be a great recruiting tool for young Americans to want to go to USMA and to graduate. For an example of what an association of graduates with "muscle" can do for its graduates, look at Harvard and Yale and Stamford...talk about graduate associations with "power"...

[318]  reevaluated

[319]  I'm not interested in charge cards, hotel discounts, etc.

[320]  I think the fund raising aspect of the AOG has been expanded too much with expectations too high.

[321]  If AOG is making money from all of those activities, then they are ok. Otherwise, I question all of the announcements from cruises, Visa cards, etc.

[322]  I cannot evaluate this because I do not know what kind of contribution either in money or benefits each of these ativities is making to the school, the AOG, or the grads.

[323]  I have read the promotional material sent to me in the mail over the recent past and none have provided me with a comprehensive listing of AOG services. Nor have the mailings motivated me to use any AOG services. Judging from the tone of the letters I received ("Buy From Us Or Else..!!!"), I would be surprised if they were at all successful.

[324]  If I am provided "free lifetime membership to AOG" why didn't I know this before reading about it on this survey? Maybe you need to advertise better what services are offered.

[325]  We are actively developing the services that are "needed" or requested using the AOG Committee organizations. This is an on-going process...getting better each year!!!

[326]  No comment as I was unable to bring up the list of "services"

[327]  All should be re-evaluated as to relavence

[328]  I'm not sure I would ever use the services through AOG -- I'd probably obtain these services on my own. I'm not convinced the benefit of using these results in (1) savings for me, or (2) generates funds for USMA/AOG pursuits.

[329]  Get out of credit card business

[330]  Information on health Insurance. List of West Point Friendly legislation and legislators. Links to State and Local West Point friendly organizations. Specific legislative goals AOG grads should be aware of and pursue.

[331]  Again more support or assistance in getting corporate support for cadet activities.

[332]  The association should help graduates looking for jobs. Providing unsecured loans and credit cards are not really helping. Facilitating continuing education - maybe and education on line capability would also help. For example - financial planning programs, corporate finance courses, accounting would all help graduates as they transition to the civilian world. One of the biggest problems I see for graduates as they interview for a job is the lack of civilian skills - corporate finance, accounting, etc - which they can relate to the job position for which they are interviewing.

[333]  I have been unaware of hte list of services the AOG provides. I am still unsure of what "First Call" is or some of the other services listed are aobut.

[334]  Travel Services, Master Card & VISA, Discounts, Line of Credit...Are we trying to be AARP or TROA?

[335]  I continue to get mailings from the AOG on cruises and though I am interested - they are too expensive for me to take at this time. Can there be an option to receiving the mailings and save the AOG some money? Same goes for credit cards and some of the other mailings.

[336]  Air travel and vacation packages from WorldTek Travel. Member Discounts on: rental cars, hotels, flowers by phone, long distance telephone

[337]  Stop the following. Rationale is that other organizations (e.g., USAA), which most of us belong to or have access to, already do these things. Why duplicate effort? Travel/vacation packages Relocation services Credit cards Lines of credit

[338]  Not sure we need to be in credit card type work

[339]  Make sure someone is doing quality control on any third party services AOG endorses. I gave $65 to a job bank service a couple of years ago and then never got anything from them.

[340]  My comments are from the perspective of a graduate working in the civilian professional world - Affinity cards, travel services,long distance telephone, rental cars etc... are not considered "real" benefits or services because just about every organization offers these same packages. Unfortunately, the rates, discounts etc... are better elswhere. The AOG should review their agreements. Why not go to USAA and attempt to get better rates on a collective basis. Please do not be fooled, no one is paying full fare for hotels, rental cars, travel, long distance telephone services etc... The alumni services (Herbert Hall, locater,gift shop,publications, etc...) are great.

[341]  First off, it is a good reminder of what AOG provides; I was not aware or had just forgotten many items on your list. I might add, though, that some of your services are not the most "cost effective." To the cost conscious (as we must be in NJ) we need to shop around. For example, I'm an outside agent for a cruise agency which has prices significantly lower than AOGs.

[342]  Get out of the gift business, or do it right. Xmas service was horrible! ...reflects badly; AOG does not know how to run a business!?

[343]  Networking services.

[344]  Look at the listing of Benefits and services! It looks like a mixed bag between a travel agency and a bank. Actual support for the Graduates (after all it is the Association of GRADUATES) doesn't appear until item 13. All the items are good, but the focus is wrong. Grads should take care of Grads.

[345]  I would question some items if they came at cost to the AOG, such as relocation services, car discounts, etc. However, I suspect they are free to the organization and so I feel they are probably OK.

[346]  Many of these services duplicate what I can get through USAA or other means. I'm not sure whether the AOG financial services are any better or worse and I'm not inclined to take the time to make a comparision.

[347]  I have not used these services, but if they are used by the membership, then they should be continued. Many of these services are provided by other institutions such as USAA, TROA, etc. Some services may be redundant, which may provide an opportunity for the AOG to concentrate its resources on supporting USMA financially (especially AAA). Just identifying who has the best rates (for travel, credit cards, loans etc.) may be how AOG can best serve the membership, unless AOG receives funding through our use of these services, or AOG services are better than its competitors.

[348]  Credit card services

[349]  I personally would re-evaluate the following if they are consuming significant AOG resources with little or no benefit to AOG: -Real estate relocation service -Visa/Mastercard/Line of credit services

[350]  Not sure; need more time to evaluate.

[351]  When did the AOG shift from its association with CAMELOT Travel in Colorado to WorldTek travel?

[352]  I don't have a problem with any of the listed services, but I don't use many of them.

[353]  Again, could not access "services"

[354]  See item 17 above.

[355]  The use of selected commercial vendors (e.g. WorldTek Travel and Real Estate Relocation Service) as official AOG Services unless they provide significant value unavailable elsewhere. I suspect USAA provides equal or greater value than your official sources.

[356]  Be very careful about using commercial activities to raise funds. I got stung by one of these. Also avoid anything that relates to real estate or product sales as you cannot control the quality of what is delivered. You are, in effect, placing a "seal of approval" on these products and services.

[357]  Start with the Mastercard and work your way up! AOG has become a comercial benefactor - for who!

[358]  The first seven services appear to be discounts that are commercially available through other sources. I personally do not consider these services to be a benefit; indeed, I believe they generally represent worse deals than I could get through modest effort (plus I find their solicitations distracting). I presume these programs provide financial support to AOG; therefore, I believe these seven should be stopped except where AOG's economic need for them is compelling.

[359]  The first seven services appear to be discounts that are commercially available through other sources. I personally do not consider these services to be a benefit; indeed, I believe they generally represent worse deals than I could get through modest effort (plus I find their solicitations distracting). I presume these programs provide financial support to AOG; therefore, I believe these seven should be stopped except where AOG's economic need for them is compelling.

[360]  Don't see any reason to be involved in financial services.

[361]  This list represents the activities that I think AOG should pursue. Activities in support of the graduates; how did fund raising ever get into this lineup?

[362]  Seem ok.

[363]  1. Air travel, et al discounts. 2. Member discounts; hotels, flowers etc. 3. Real estate relocation. 4. Unsecured line of credit program.

[364]  Endorsements of commercial products (Credit Cards) is annoying and should be discontinued.

[365]  The services are fine. HOWEVER.... I recognize that alot of the services provide a revenue stream to the AOG, such as the credit cards, flowers, rental-cars, etc. The problem becomes distinguishing them from the other 20 offers a week everyone gets for the same services. since there is really minimal difference in cost, product, or service, you have to distinguish yourself some other way. (I hate to break it to you, but I don't think people will change to your service just out of a spirit of support). If you could "bundle" some services together, that would set you apart. The benefit to us consumers is in having one number/statement - simplification. Try and copy USAA's approach.

[366]  Not sure of the effort, but the rental car, visa/MC, and other discounts are usually better from AAA, work, or other sources. Seems we should do better, or save the effort.

[367]  all are greater, but I think that AOG should be more visible in the minority recruitment area

[368]  As stated above, the AOG should be a vehicle for supporting concerns of the graduates, even if these conflict with fund-raising.

[369]  Services are fine as is, but SABRD is a potentially valuable tool that has much info grossly out of date. Greatly decreases value.

[370]  Limit free membership (5yrs, 10yrs??). Then there would be a more direct link between AOG "customer" service and AOG performance - i.e. poor service = no membership dues. This would be a very sensitive mechanism to evaluate your performance and activities.

[371]  Travel services are a duplication of effort with many services available elsewhere. Credit card applications are in my mail box weekly. I can find one that is at least as good as any offered by AOG. Same with line of credit.

[372]  However, Add the reccommended goal.

[373]  There are always new ways to raise money while serving your members...I think you are doing fine, but don't be content.

[374]  I did not know about the transition services when I got out of the army. I don't think my post transition center did not either. Possibly send some sort of communication to transition center notifying them of this service.

[375]  Bag the discount services. Most people have better sources for those. (e.g. USAA)

[376]  It looks like lots of different activities. What is the purpose of these services. What is the real value? I would prune it back to 4 or 5 activities.

[377]  Unless these are the only means of bringing in money to run your costs, I'd delete Air travel/vacations, Graduate travel programs, Visa and Mastercard programs, and the loans. I don't see the connection between these services and your mission.

[378]  Job Listings

[379]  I do not see any need for travel services, credit cards, etc. unless these are really net profitable to the AOG

[380]  Stop promoting long distance telephone offers. They are so prevalent and annoying. Also, the credit card offers are annoying. The rates offered are reasonable, but generally not worth investigating. In sum, even the AOG logo doesn't help these mailings pass the "3 seconds over the trash can" test for direct mail.

[381]  I think AOG needs to get its services out to the populice more frequently, if it expects them to be used. It seems like everyone is offering the "same" services (ie USAA Travel Services).

[382]  All services and programs need continual re-evaluation or they atrophy/lose focus. Having just had a reunion, I think the reunion support could be improved a lot. Putting most activities for grads in Tarreytown is absurd and sends a pretty clear message about their importance. The "News you can use" feature could be improved using the Net via e-mail and beefing up the web page. The Supe's comments at the reunion concerning deterioration of physical plant etc were shocking and warrant wider dissemination.

[383]  Foregoing comments apply

[384]  are the rates guaranteed as lowest?

[385]  I support the services being provided. However, I would reorder the priorities. Career transition needs to be near the top of the list.

[386]  I personnaly feel the AOG should nto be in the credit card, rental car, hotel, flower, long distance telephone, real estate relocation or line of credit operations. The AOG needs to give more support to the Societies, Class Organization, the Career Transition/Advisory, Assisting Societies in the recruiting efforts and support of reunions ect. Again the purpose is to support members and not use "strategic piggybacking" methods to fund raise from members. There are way too many credit card, car rental ect sources out there. You are the late comer on all these and in my opinion the AOG sources are noncompetitive.

[387]  Why all the travel stuff? A diversion, unless it is a real money maker for you.

[388]  There seems to be a distinct "commercial" flavor to the services provided. Is this necessary to fund other services?

[389]  Most of the services do not seem to further your goals.Are the travel ,credit cards,etc. money makers or losers?

[390]  Unless the first seven provide some monetary value to the WPF or AOG operating budget, I think they should be stopped. Most of these discounts can be obtained through other means and any time spent by AOG on these could be better spent on fund-raising or improving locator service or enhancing web-site information, marketing the value of West Point, etc.

[391]  Ensure grads have an incentive to use some. I wonder if any or all of the following are "cost competitive?" If grads can't save a buck by using them, get rid of them. The vacation packages AOG sends me seem to be very, very expensive. Real estate location service?

[392]  I do not see a need for compe