Pizza -- I'm with you. I really want that shuttle card for sentimental reasons (not very MyFico, I know). I'm determined to get it even if it takes 2 years. It's completely illogical because their CS is awful and the web site and snail mail routine makes me feel like I'm stuck in a 60's movie, but I have a WANT that shuttle card. Like you, I probably jumped the gun on my app, but I figured if CSP was willing to give me a $24K SL, NASA would want me -- but wrong!!
I have to say that I'm surprised and impressed they even bothered to send you a letter. They seem to have a very "we don't need you, you need us" attitude. I would take it as a good sign and give them an honest response about the CU membership and maybe they'll woo you back. Plus, we MyFico members love a challenge 
@pizza1 wrote:
It's not like I have a lot of power here, lol...but I will do a little groveling and mention Navy and my $14k Visa etc... And see what kind of response I get back. Never knowplus they pull EX which is my highest score by far! Lol
The CC or anything else from NASA would likely not come to fruition but I think you know this since they will need to HP again (you definitely don't want them to see your recent activities - so mentioning NAVY or Venture successes will not sway them). But, if you want to keep your membership to maintain the relationship (doesn't really cost anything really) I would suggest keeping it so you're not back to square one if you decide to apply with them in the future for a CC or PLOC.