Twitter
Facebook
The Ramstein Retiree Activities Office hosted a Retiree Appreciation Day at Ramstein Air Base, Oct. 13.
This event was used as an opportunity for retirees in the Kaiserslautern Military Community to voice their thoughts on retiree activities and receive important information from U.S. Air Force Col. Denny Davies, 86th Airlift Wing vice commander and other speakers.
“Retiree Appreciation Day is all about getting retirees out into the community,” said U.S. Air Force ret. Chief Master Sgt. Jim Barrante, stand-in director of the KMC RAO. “A lot of retirees prefer face-to-face interactions with agencies and it is important for us to assist them in every way we can.”
The event provided an opportunity to show retirees that they are valued members of the community.
“There are a ton of representatives from agencies around the KMC here,” Barrante said. “They are here to help the retirees with everything from pay, Social Security benefits, German taxes and healthcare matters. The 86th Medical Group is giving out Flu shots and covid booster shots as well as Glaucoma, blood pressure and skin cancer checks. They are here for us, so I urge all retirees to come out and take advantage of the opportunity.”
Leadership teams from the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force in the KMC came out to answer questions, provide valuable information and properly thank retirees for their service.
“It is an absolute honor to be with you all here,” Davies said. “This is one of the best attended events in the KMC and it is appropriate it is so well attended so we can honor each and every one of you. Thank you especially to our retiree organizations that keep so many people informed and U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force leadership here informed as well.”
There may be many retirees who don’t know where to turn to with questions, or are less involved and informed than active duty service members and need a way to keep in touch. Events like this are a way to bridge the gap.
“It is so important we stay connected over here,” Barrante said. “In the U.S. it is sometimes easier to get information, but over here we are pretty much it. Events like these do not just provide a service to retirees, but show them there are people here who will listen to their concerns and lend a helping hand. It is so important we stay involved with our retirees so they can live the life they deserve.”
The RAO is always looking for volunteers. If interested call DSN 480-5486 or send an email to 86aw.rao@us.af.mil.
