FORT BELVOIR, Va. -- Military retirees, widows and widowers are invited to Fort Belvoir's Retiree Appreciation and Widow/Widower Day Sept. 19 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Barden Education Center, room 160.

"The event is an informational fair. Topics range from what is happening on post to the new hospital and membership benefits," said Gwendolyn Lott, retirement services officer.

For retirees, seminar topics include legislative issues affecting veterans, combat-related special compensation, identity theft and Internet security.

For widow/widowers, Bonnie Carroll, will speak about the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, 1:15 to 1:45 p.m. in room 1017.

The mission of the T.A.P.S. is to provide comfort and support to all who are grieving the loss of a loved one in military service. The program reaches out to anyone, regardless of relationship, circumstance or geographic location of the casualty.

Following Carroll, Annette Sanders-Nash provides information about the Survivor Outreach Services Program.

The SOS program provides short term and long-term case management, benefits counseling, financial planning, legal assistance, service delivery based on specific individual needs, and support as long as the family member wants or needs support.

Installation Commander Col. Jerry Blixt, the Installation Command Sgt. Maj. Gabriel Berhane, and Lt. Col. Leonardo Martinez, DeWitt Healthcare Network's chief of Preventive Medicine, will be guest speakers, updating the retirees on the installation's services.

Vendors from several organizations such as Military Officers Association of America, and Belvoir Credit Union will have exhibits on display.

"We encourage everyone to come. Retirees serve an important role and provide support to Belvoir. We have about $1,500 worth of prizes and giveaways," Lott said.

Onsite registration is from 8 to 9 a.m.

Lunch will be held at Fort Belvoir's dining facility for $4.25, followed by K-9 demonstrations, at Pullen Field.

Retirees can register in advance by calling Fort Belvoir Retirement Services at 703-805-2675.