Photo By Christy Mason | Active-duty Airmen and retired military members salute while taps is played during a...... read more read more
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MALMSTROM AIR FOR BASE, Mont. -- Nearly 30 military retirees and family members from around Montana joined Airmen from Malmstrom to take part in the wing’s annual retiree appreciation day May 19.
“Today is an appreciation day for all the things our retirees have done for us in the past,” said retired Senior Master Sgt. Jerry Hall, retiree activity director. “We also try to make the event beneficial for them and provide them long-term information with what is going on with the base.”
The day started with a welcome breakfast at the base chapel, followed by special front of the line services for those in attendance at the base clinic, military personnel section and commissary.
Attendees also joined Airmen from the base at a luncheon at the Grizzly Bend where Col. Jay Folds, 341st Missile Wing vice commander, thanked the honorees for their contributions and provided a brief on the Air Force and the base.
Additionally, numerous booths were set up throughout the various events to offer information ranging from legal and casualty assistance to outdoor recreation and Airman and Family Readiness services.
“The biggest purpose (of the event) is communication and networking,” said Hall. “We have all different sorts of information available that they can use like pharmacy updates, powers of attorney and survivor benefits.”
This was the second year 2nd Lt. Marques Hiers from the 341st Medical Group volunteered to help coordinate the event.
“I really enjoy being able to speak with the retirees,” he said. “They bring a lot of knowledge and history to the Air Force, so I always want to give back what I can.
“Being third generation military and looking back at what my grandfather and father have done really helps show an appreciation,” he continued. “I think just saying thank you for everyone before us that has served is the big thing, because without them we wouldn’t be here today.”
The day’s events concluded with a retreat ceremony held at Medal of Honor Park with 341st Security Forces Group Commander, Col. Robert Frederiksen, as the guest speaker.
“We wrap up this day with a special retreat ceremony honoring your sacrifices and your service,” said Frederiksen. “The men and women of Wing One are in formation to honor you and your contributions.”
Multiple generations of former and current military members stood in formation while the Malmstrom Honor Guard folded the flag as the national anthem played. Lastly, taps was sounded in honor of those who have given their lives in service to the country and those who have served and since passed away.
More information on retiree activities and future events can be found at www.malmstrom.af.mil/Units/Retiree-Affairs-Office/ or www.facebook.com/MalmstromRetirees/.
| Date Taken: | 05.19.2017 |
| Date Posted: | 05.22.2017 11:27 |
| Story ID: | 234710 |
| Location: | MALMSTROM AFB, MT, US |
| Web Views: | 40 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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