YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea -- Yongsan hosted an annual Retiree Appreciation Day in order to honor those who once served for their country and to provide them with beneficial information to better their lifestyles here, Nov. 17.
"Today's Retiree Appreciation Day makes me feel good, because I can feel that I am still recognized for my time of the service of more than 20 years," said Hans Brown, a retired Air Traffic Controller from Fort Stewart, Georgia. "I hope that the retirees always remain in the mind of people, and I want to forge the camaraderie with the fellow retirees amid the remembrance."
Many retirees filled the Naija Ballroom at the Dragon Hill Lodge, which ranged from Korean War veterans to the more recent wartime Retirees. The appreciation day ceremony started off with the presentation of the National Color brought by JROTC of Seoul American High School, symbolizing the veterans passing their baton to the new soldiers.
Col. Michael E. Masley, garrison commander for U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan, expressed his gratitude to the Retirees.
"Today is a great day because it provides each one of us with the opportunity to recognize the endless contributions made by Retirees and their Families," Masley said. "Thank you for what you do and what you did. Your contributions do not go unnoticed. We would never be able to rightfully reward you for all you have done, but that does not mean we should not try to do so as much as possible."
Masley recognized not only the retiree, but also their family for their limitless support and Korea's environment that is conducive to the retired soldiers.
"One other thing that makes Korea such a great place for retiree is its great extended military family," Masley said. "The foundation of support for our Retiree starts with the family."
During the event, the retirees and their families were given the opportunity to recieve free flu shots and Ophthalmology exams. There were also various information booths setup, such as medical insurance and veterinarian services to provide the retirees with useful information.
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