SJAFB hosts first Retiree Appreciation Night

by Airman Shawna L. Keyes
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

11/17/2015 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C.  -- To thank our service members of yesteryear, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, as part of the Make It Better campaign, hosted its first annual Retiree Appreciation Night, Nov. 12.

The night focused on informing the more than 150 retirees in attendance about the on- and off-base programs available and getting input on what they would like to see added.

"I want you to know what the Airmen you raised are doing on this base to make it better," said Col. Mark Slocum, 4th Fighter Wing commander. "We know we stand on the shoulders of giants and we're going to try and keep that legacy going."

Representatives from the 4th Fighter Wing Legal office, 4th Force Support Squadron, commissary, The Exchange, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Veterans of Foreign Wars were present at the event to showcase what they have to offer for veterans and their families. The retirees were also treated to a free dinner, flu shots and door prize giveaways.

"It was great to be here and hear about everything that's happening," said William Johnson, U.S. Air Force retiree. "Seeing what the young Airmen are doing to make it better for everyone, I really appreciate it."

The event marked the beginning of a new chapter in the Make It Better campaign. Since its inception more than a year ago, MIB has aimed to improve existing programs, create new ones, and make improvements in quality of life for Airmen and families across the base.

Having already been extended to the youth programs on base, the campaign is now focusing on also improving Team Seymour's support for retirees, including a brand new webpage, Make It Better for Retirees, which has links to medical info and services, upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, recreational activities, MIB clubs, and other retiree resources.

"I think the Make It Better retiree initiative is a great opportunity to give back some of our knowledge to the young Airmen and work alongside them," said retired Master Sgt. Steve Lazarus. "I'm not as familiar with the program as I'd like to be, but I look forward to learning more about it and seeing it grow."