For those of us military seniors who find we now have some time on our hands, I have a terrific suggestion: If you enjoy meeting fellow military retirees and being a part of a helping, fun group of your peers, consider the McChord Retiree Activities Office.
As an official Air Force volunteer organization of 30-plus years, the volunteers staff a small office and have some interesting activities throughout the year. Even if you have only three hours to volunteer each week (or each month), but like helping others and greeting folks needing information on various retiree issues, you will really enjoy this group.
We assist or direct retirees to appropriate resources on such topics as healthcare, TriCare, ID card renewals, casualty assistance, military pay questions, etc. A monthly combination luncheon and business meeting is held at the Base Club. Activities include a summer picnic, a party at Christmas, and an annual banquet. This “Heritage Dinner” features military ceremonies, a guest speaker, historical military displays, wonderful food, door prizes and, of course, much camaraderie. Some elect to wear their uniform (if it still fits!) and usually represent all branches of the military and all military eras – World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Middle East. This year’s event will be June 21. Tickets are on sale at the McChord Club. Military retirees, active duty and their family and friends are cordially invited.
For information on volunteering and events, please call our office, 9 a.m. to 12 noon weekdays, at 253-982-3214.

Ruth Sharp, who wrote this arrticle, is a McChord Retiree Activities Office volunteer.