FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
"They understand. They know where you're coming from and they know the pain, the heartache, the grieving process."
Patricia Duncan, Pershing Child Development Center child youth program assistant, knows what it feels like to lose a family member who served in the military.
To show support for the surviving families, the Fort Eustis Army Support Activity Survivor Outreach Services hosted the third annual "Thanks for Giving" potluck social at the 733rd Mission Support Group headquarters at Fort Eustis, Nov. 21.
The event gave approximately 70 family members of fallen Service members, known as "Gold Star families," the chance to interact with others who share the same experience while taking time to celebrate their Service members' sacrifices, said Rochelle Crockett, SOS support coordinator.
"For family members who have lost their loved ones, the holidays are usually when it really hits them they're missing that person at the table," said Crockett. "Even if they have progressed through the journey of grief, they tend to have a setback when Thanksgiving, Christmas and the new year come. This is a great opportunity for us to get the family members together and thank them for giving the ultimate sacrifice."
According to Crockett, the Thanksgiving potluck is one of the many ways SOS demonstrates the Army's commitment to providing support and standardized services to "Gold Star families," by reassuring them they are linked to the Army family for as long as they desire.
The event kicked off with opening remarks from U.S. Army Col. William Galbraith, 733rd MSG commander, followed by blessings from U.S. Army Chap. (Col.) Dean Bonura from the Regimental Memorial Chapel.
After the blessing, families enjoyed contributions from post organizations including the Morale, Welfare and Recreation center, United Service Organization, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command band, and local community organizations.
A member from the Santas of America organization handed out toys to children as they ate and the local Boys and Girls Scouts performed during a talent show after dinner.
According to Crockett, the event continues to grow every year, with last year bringing in more than 59 participants.
"We all care about each other because we've all felt [the pain]. It's camaraderie and it's therapy," said Duncan. "It's not like talking to someone who [doesn't understand] you - you're speaking to someone who has walked in your shoes.
"You feel like you've known them for years because you can communicate so well with them," she continued. "It's not a stranger, it's a friendly face; it's someone who understands."
This is one of the many reasons Crockett said she organizes the event each year. She said it's not just her job -- she cares.
"Losing a mother or sibling in a way is still not the same when you've lost them due to their military service," she said. "I give them respect because I have not walked in their shoes, so I'm going to make sure I can do everything I can to connect them with each other and make sure [our] community does not forget their ultimate sacrifice. I owe that to them."
For more information, call Crockett at 878-3887 or Mark Sowers at 878-3963.