PIONEERS OF STEALTH CHARTER
November 2007

Purpose. The purpose of the Pioneers of Stealth organization is to perpetuate the spirit and achievements of a relatively small number of government and industry people in the early days of low observables technology and development. These “pioneers” believe the bonds created through their sharing of these successful achievements will always be an important part of their life experiences. They are proud of their accomplishments and enjoy being together to visit and revisit with those who all made valuable contributions to these challenging and revolutionary programs. Maintaining this social relationship is extremely important and a primary objective of this organization. The Pioneers of Stealth also believe that their value to the current defense acquisition establishment is best accomplished by using their strong record of achievements to be advocates and mentors for industry-government teamwork, streamlined management procedures, and minimal oversight and reporting requirements – all factors that significantly contributed to the historic successes of the low observables programs.

Membership. Membership in the Pioneers of Stealth organization is limited to all government and industry employees who were involved in the planning and execution of the low observable programs managed under the then Aeronautical Systems Division’s Special Projects Office (subsequently ASD/XRJ) prior to December 17, 1993, the date of the first operational B-2 bomber to Whiteman AFB, MO, on the 90th anniversary of the Wright Brothers first flight.
Dues. Membership dues will be $25.00 per year. Individuals desiring to continue as members (or those desiring to become new members) must provide an indication of their association with the ASD low observable programs prior to December 17, 1993, a current mailing and e-mail address, a phone number and a check for $25.00 to the Pioneers of Stealth Treasurer.
Structure. The Pioneers of Stealth organization will have four officers, three standing Committees, and a Senior Advisory Group.
Officers. The officers will be President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. Officers will elected by the membership at each reunion.

Committees. There will be a Steering Committee chaired by the President. Steering Committee membership will include the other officers and representatives from the membership-at-large. The other committees will be Communications and Social. Membership on committees will be voluntary. The Communications and Social committees will have a chairperson elected from their membership and will document operating procedures in support of their responsibilities described below.

Senior Advisory Group (SAG). The SAG will be made up of 3 to 4 members (a mix of government and industry) who are designated as Principal Pioneers by the membership and the current President of the POS. The SAG will provide advice and assistance to the officers and committees of the Pioneers of Stealth. The SAG may participate on the Steering Committee from time to time.
Responsibilities. The Steering Committee will maintain the provisions of this charter; define the duties of and nominate candidates for the officer positions; schedule POS reunions, and establish any special recognitions, events, or programs. The Social Committee will oversee and support all reunions of the Pioneers of Stealth. Reunions shall be planned and conducted every 2 to 3 years at selected locations within the continental United States with the intent of sustaining current friendships and camaraderie. Potential locations, leads, and the approximate schedule for the next reunion will be determined at the conclusion of the previous reunion The Communications Committee will establish and maintain the membership roster, keep members informed of all POS organization and member news, and provide to the members the timing, location and other salient details of reunions as they are planned, organized and conducted.

Effective Date. This initial charter is an evolving document. It is effective November 10, 2007 as approved by the POS membership in attendance at the business meeting in Henderson NV on that date for the purpose of baselining the membership, leadership and structure of the POS. Proposed changes to the charter may be submitted to the Steering Committee at any time. The charter will be subject to review and renewal at each reunion.



/s/ Rob Bongiovi

Acting Secretary, Pioneers of Stealth

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