FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
Booths and tables full of information were lined up throughout the main corridor at the Fort Eustis, Va., Exchange as retirees, active-duty supporters, volunteers and families gathered for the annual Retiree Appreciation Day event May 18.
Spearheaded by the Fort Eustis Retiree Council, this annual event provides continuity between the retired and active-duty community. The council ensures the command is informed on all issues and concerns that directly apply to retirees.
"We use events like this to say 'thank you' to all the retirees," said Debra Stancil, Fort Eustis Retiree Council co-chairman. "Even in retirement, they display continued selfless service."
This year the Retiree Appreciation Day event had support from more than 30 different vendors who offered a variety of information, including the Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans, and financial and medical support agencies.
"I have been coming to this event for the past nine years to gain information," said James Walton, a retired U.S. Army master sergeant. "It's a wonderful opportunity for the military community and the retiree community to come together."
The event also included retired U.S. Army Col. Keith Morrow, 733rd Mission Support Group deputy commander as the guest speaker, as well as an outdoor recreational vehicle display, door prizes, drawings and plenty of games to help celebrate the retirees' service.
Walton said the continued success of the event is something he looks forward to.
"I think the Fort Eustis Retiree Council has done an amazing job thought the years with this event, and I look forward to years to come."