About Us

History

 

USAA has always upheld the belief that retirement does not have to sever an employee’s connection to the organization. To reinforce this, then-CEO General Robert McDermott (McD) introduced quarterly luncheons for retirees, ensuring they remained an integral part of the USAA community. This initiative underscored USAA’s continued appreciation for its retirees and their contributions.

 

The first luncheon took place at USAA’s San Antonio home office on November 22, 1977, with 69 of the approximately 175 retirees in attendance. After two successful gatherings, retirees formally established the USAA Golden Eagle Club in October 1978, electing Bill Ward as its first president. The club was officially incorporated as a nonprofit social organization on October 24, 1978, and has received steadfast support from USAA’s senior management ever since. Membership in the Club allows retirees to continue their connection to USAA.

 

With backing from USAA’s Office of Corporate Impact, along with Enterprise Events and Protocol, the Golden Eagle Club continues to thrive. At its inception, the club had 61 charter members, about one-third of eligible retirees, most of whom lived in Texas. Today, its membership extends across the country and internationally, reflecting the enduring bond between USAA and its retirees.