JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL, Va. — Over 250 retirees and family members gathered at Spates Hall Sept. 17 for Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall’s annual Retiree Appreciation Day, featuring resource tables with benefits information, giveaways and a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Col. Keith Sandoval, commander of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, addressed the audience during the formal portion of the event, adding that service members are standing on the shoulders of the retirees who came before.
“Looking out at this room, I don’t just see retirees; I see decades of quiet courage and honorable service,” Sandoval said. “I see the sacrifices borne not only in uniform, but at home: the empty seats at family dinner tables, the birthdays missed, the deployments endured. That is the fabric of our military heritage.”
Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director of the Office of Army Cemeteries and Army National Military Cemeteries, served as keynote speaker. She thanked the Retiree Council for representing the local retiree community and advising installation leaders.
“Today’s event is also about honoring the selfless service provided by you and your families,” Durham-Aguilera said. “To the public, you are members of the military. To us, you are family. And we take care of family.”
She highlighted the installation’s historic role and its connection to Arlington National Cemetery.
“Beyond the gates of Fort Myer lies Arlington National Cemetery, our nation’s most sacred shrine and the eternal home where we preserve the legacy of America’s greatest heroes,” Durham-Aguilera said. “Every day, across these hallowed grounds, my team and I work to keep a promise made to all who wore the uniform: that your sacrifices will forever be honored with dignity, reverence, and lasting remembrance.”
Lt. Col. (Ret.) Randy Potter, chair of the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Retiree Council, opened the event by encouraging all retirees in attendance to learn what benefits are available to them. The Retiree Council advises the Garrison Commander on retiree issues, represents the retiree community, identifies concerns affecting retired Soldiers and surviving spouses, supports Retiree Appreciation Day, and helps distribute updates on benefits and policy changes.
Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to visit resource tables where the Retiree Services team, Rader Clinic, the Fort Myer Post Exchange and other supporting organizations explained the benefits and resources available to retirees and their families. Sandoval encouraged them to take full advantage.
“These vendors are all here for you, so take advantage of this opportunity and ask lots of questions,” he said. “I want everyone to leave here today with a full understanding of the benefits available and the policies that affect you and your families.”
The event also included giveaways and a cake-cutting ceremony featuring the oldest and youngest retirees present.
Later, attendees were invited to a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
“This solemn tradition serves as a powerful reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by your fellow service members,” Sandoval said. “We remember them, and we honor you for stepping up when your country called.”
Both speakers expressed gratitude to the families of retirees.
“Thank you again for your service, your continued contributions, and your enduring commitment to our nation,” Sandoval said. “It is an honor to recognize you today.”
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