Relationships Build a Force Multiplier Among Community

By Zona T. Lewis, Navy Safe Harbor

FAIRFAX, Va. (NNS) -- Members of the Country Club of Fairfax, Va., made time to get to know Wounded Warriors, their families and caregivers during the club's second annual Warrior Appreciation Day July 20.

"We want everyone to feel at home, to show our appreciation for what they do and to establish relationships," said Jim O'Donnell, past president of the Country Club of Fairfax and event co-chair. "The entire day's focus is on the guest."

The day was packed with events for the entire family including a golf scramble, tennis, swimming, volleyball, access to the fitness center and children's games. There was also a special appearance by golf trick shot artist Brad Denton.

For the members of the Country Club of Fairfax, the day was more than just an annual event.

"It's about building relationships," said O'Donnell. "Members are still playing golf and going to dinner with guests they met at last year's event."

The event is as much for the members as the Wounded Warriors.

"As a retired Navy commander, I wanted members of the club who had not been previously involved with the military this opportunity," said Aileen Whitaker, an event co-chair.

Whitaker acknowledged that many people in the community want to support military families but are hesitant due to a lack of understanding about military life, what military families need and want in the way of support and how to reach out to them.

Building relationships through this event allows the club members to have a greater understanding of the military's mission, military service and the sacrifices service members and their families make.

Whitaker said that after the 2009 Warrior Appreciation Day many participants told her that they learned so much about military service and the sacrifices service members make that they were inspired to continue to reach out to our service members throughout the year.

"Many members describe it as the best day they have ever had at the club," said Whitaker.

With 106 volunteers supporting 103 Wounded Warriors, families and caregivers, the personal, one-on-one attention and fellowship allowed members to meet and really get to know their guests.

"Community events like this let us know, despite our illness or injury, that there are people out there that care for us," said Personnel Specialist 1st Class Gloria Sebastian, assigned to Naval Recruiting District (NRD) Philadelphia. "And, gives us a since of family for those of us that don't have family here."

Sebastian is a breast cancer survivor enrolled in Navy Safe Harbor, the Navy and Coast Guards' Wounded Warrior support program.

"Our mission is to establish relationships with all Wounded Warriors [in attendance], but most especially with Wounded Warriors with families not near here. We will take care of our Warriors; that is our goal," said O'Donnell.