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A Message from our President

Memorial Book Signing

Stop by and leave a message for Bertie and his family.

November 1 - 6

Senate Hart Branch (Hart Senate Officer Building, SH-118, Washington, DC)

November 7 - 9

Bowman Branch at the Bertie H. Bowman Building (1310 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314)


Remembering Herbert “Bertie" Bowman

With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we share the solemn news of the passing of our beloved Bertie Bowman.

For over six decades, Bertie Bowman bore witness to history's relentless march. From the poignant loss of Franklin D. Roosevelt and the turbulent times of World War II to the transformative moments of Brown vs. Board of Education, the Civil Rights movement, the Vietnam War, and the tumultuous Watergate scandal, Bertie's life became intertwined with the tapestry of our nation's journey.

Bertie’s journey wasn't marked solely by the historical events he observed, but also by the deep and enduring friendships he nurtured throughout his illustrious career on Capitol Hill. Former President Barack Obama, with whom he toiled on the Foreign Relations Committee for three years, was a firsthand witness to Bertie's unwavering dedication. Moreover, former President Bill Clinton embarked on his political journey as a messenger for the committee during his formative years at Georgetown University, guided by Bertie's wisdom. Prominent leaders such as Secretaries of State Hillary Clinton and John Kerry, as well as Vice President Joe Biden, all had the privilege of experiencing Bertie's exceptional partnership and unwavering commitment on Capitol Hill.

Mr. Bowman's tenure of service to the Credit Union began in 1966 when he became a volunteer member of the Credit Committee. In 1975, he ascended to the Board of Directors, amassing a remarkable 44 consecutive years on the Board, including two terms as Chairman. For fifty-three years, Bertie's dedication and support to the Credit Union stood unrivaled, a record of service unmatched within the organization.

He wasn't just a member of the USSFCU; he embodied its spirit and values. Bertie's contributions extended far beyond his role as Chairman of the Board; he served as the Past Chairman of the Credit, Personnel, and Supervisory Committees. His commitment was reached further as he co-chaired the Assets/Liability Management Committee and the By-Laws Committee. In 2020, Bertie received industry-wide recognition when he was inducted into the African American Credit Union Coalition’s Hall of Fame, further solidifying his allegiance to the credit union’s mission.

As the longest-serving board member and the distinguished holder of emeritus status, Mr. Bowman leaves behind a profound imprint on the United States Senate Federal Credit Union.  In 2019, USSFCU honored Mr. Bowman by dedicating its new headquarters and flagship branch in his honor in a ceremony held in the Foreign Relations Committee hearing room. His legacy will forever resonate in the halls of the Bertie Bowman Building, a living testament to his unwavering dedication and leadership.

Mr. Bowman was not simply a giant among men; he was a revered icon on Capitol Hill, the very conscience of the Credit Union, and, above all, an unwavering servant to his community. We mourn the loss of an exceptional individual whose absence will be deeply felt throughout our USSFCU family. It was an honor to call Mr. Bowman a colleague, mentor, and friend.

As we remember Bertie, we hold onto his guiding principles: "Work hard. Be true to yourself. Take responsibility. Have a positive outlook. Expect the best from people."

The legacy of Herbert "Bertie" Bowman will forever be cherished.

Timothy L. Anderson
USSFCU President & CEO

We want to remember Bertie's legacy and celebrate his life with all those he touched.

If Bertie impacted your life, you would like to share a story or your condolences, we want to share it with Bertie's family and friends.

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Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

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