FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- Retirees, surviving spouses and Family Members came to update records, get new ID cards and learn about upcoming changes to their benefits during Fort Drum's annual Retiree Appreciation Day on Saturday at Clark Hall.
"Being connected is important; it's not an option," said Sonny Mitchell, event coordinator and retirement services liaison for the Northeast region. "The focus this year was on networking and getting the retirees directly in touch with the organizations they rely on for assistance."
Mitchell explained that one of their main missions is to get all retirees in the Northeast region -- spanning New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine and six Canadian provinces -- connected to the Internet to ensure up-to-date information is available to all retirees. He said the Army Echoes newsletter, which is targeted specifically to retirees, is now available digitally with the latest benefit information.
Col. Gary A. Rosenberg, Fort Drum garrison commander, was guest speaker during the event.
"We have a robust retiree population, which is still proudly serving our active-duty military and their Families during this time of frequent deployments," he said, adding that retirees in the area work hard to support the Fort Drum population. "It's one of our biggest bragging points on our installation and why we are an Army Community of Excellence."
Rosenberg also mentioned the great civic work being put forth by military retirees at various community levels.
Theresa Bush, widow of retired Sgt. 1st Class Archie Bush, came to Clark Hall to find out more about her survivor benefits and potential changes in the coming fiscal year.
"My husband served 20 years in the Army and another 30 for the federal government," she explained.
Bush added she enjoys Fort Drum and the North Country, as well as having an opportunity to participate in events such as the Retiree Appreciation Day.
For information about retiree benefits, view the Army Echoes newsletter at www.armyg1.army.mil/rso/echoes.asp, or call the Fort Drum Retirement Services Office at 772-6339 / 6434 or 1-800-556-9790.
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