We believe that retirees residing overseas should be accounted for and given status as members of U.S. Component Forces located in NATO member nations. In this manner, retirees and their family members would have access to facilities owned and operated by the Department of Defense just as they are in the United States. The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV Instruction 5420.169H) reaffirms and emphasizes the Department of Defense policy stating "By tradition and law, retired Navy and Marine Corps personnel are individuals with a continuing military status. They, as well as their family members and survivors, are entitled to certain rights, benefits, and privileges and are subject to responsibilities arising from these entitlements. Retirees are also subject to recall to active duty at the discretion of the President."