DAVID A. BAMBURG, MSgt USAF

Chapter 1179, Vice-President

On 11 Nov 05,while many in the Air Force got a day off to celebrate Veterans Day, others decided to spend their time off honoring those who served before us.

            In a trip sponsored by the Air Force Sergeants Association, Chapter 1179, 18 members of Team Buckley’s 460 Space Wing, the Marine’s MACS-23, and the Army’s ACO 743^rd MIBN, visited the Colorado Veterans Home at Fitzsimons. They visited the Veterans during lunch, dividing up between two dining rooms.

            “Our veterans at the facility want to continue to fill connected to the military,” Melissa Blair, the home’s activity director said.  “Having the military’s presence at our facility helps our residents feel a part of the community.”  Ms. Blair has worked in long term care for the past 9 years, and has worked at the Colorado Veterans Home since August 2004.

            Last week’s visit was coordinated by SSgt, Yolanda Becker, Chapter 1179’s Membership Trustee.  “I realy enjoy each visit with the Vets,” Becker said.  “I have been thanked by many for the ability to connect with us, the uniform, and the military.  It’s a life they miss, and for a short time, they get to re-live it by sharing a little conversation.”

            Just as the military is made up of people from all parts of the United States, the same is true with the Colorado Veterans Home.  During their visit, members of Team Buckley met people from as far away as Texas and New York.  Some of the residents retired in the Denver area, and decided to stay, while others were dependents, who remained after their veteran spouses passed away.

            Both sides plan on the relationship to continue.  “The veterans home would like to continue an active relationship with Buckley AFB by having the military visit the residents, or having them attend our programs,” Ms. Blair said.  “The residents were also impressed the last time they visited Buckley and would like to continue visiting the base regularly.”

           If you would like to go with Team Buckley on their next trip to the Colorado Veterans Home, contact SSgt Becker, (720) 847-6351, or call Melissa Blair at (720) 857-6437 to schedule a visit.

MSgt David A. Bamburg