Photo By David Hernandez | As part of the Army's commitment to taking care of people, Fort Buchanan and the...... read more read more
FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto Rico- As part of the Army's commitment to taking care of people, Fort Buchanan and the Department of Veterans Affairs hosted the Retiree and Veteran's Appreciation Day event Nov.6 at the installation's Community Club.
Colonel John D. Samples, Fort Buchanan commanding officer, welcomed participants during the formal portion of the event.
"We have a responsibility to take care of you after you've taken care of us. So, we're going to ensure that we do that out of respect and love for you, but it is what we as American taxpayers have the responsibility to do because it's a true test of the character of a society, is how they care for their veterans, "said Samples.
Corey Hawthorne, Executive Director (Acting) at the Veterans Benefits Administration’s San Juan Regional Office, also addressed the participants.
"Days like this are what our mission is all about. We want to ensure that we take care of veterans and their families with their claims and benefits and that the benefits they've earned will be delivered to them appropriately. But one of the best things we can do is be in the community to make sure we can educate veterans and their families on what those benefits are, to make sure you know what you're potentially entitled to," said Hawthorne.
Pedro J. Garced Cartagena, supervisor of the Gray Area Retirements Branch, U.S. Army Human Resources Command (HRC), Reserve Personnel Management Directorate, was the guest speaker for the occasion.
"As I reflect on my time in the military, I am filled with gratitude for the sacrifices made by every Soldier who served alongside me. We have missed birthdays and holidays but did so with a shared belief in a great cause to protect our country. To my fellow Soldiers, I want to express my deepest thanks for your unwavering dedication and willingness to put duty above yourself," said Garced Cartagena, the officer in charge of processing the retirement packets at HRC.
After the protocolary portion of the event concluded, veterans moved to the ballroom where different federal, state, and municipal agencies offered information about their services.
Hector L. Muñoz, a veteran who retired from active duty after 23 years of service, traveled to Fort Buchanan to attend the event.
"I find the facilities that Fort Buchanan has provided us for this event exceptional. This event truly helps Veterans. Many do not know they have many benefits available, and they should. This event provides us with necessary information," said Muñoz.
The Retirement Services Office is at the installation's Welcome Center, Building 152, Patriot Blvd., Fort Buchanan. For more information, please call (787) 707-2061 or email miguel.a.apontecepeda.civ@army.mil
With an annual investment in the local economy of more than $500 million, Fort Buchanan serves a diverse military community of approximately 15,000 active-duty Reserve, National Guard, Marine Corps Reserve, and Navy Reserve personnel. Fort Buchanan's mission is to serve as a readiness enabler platform to facilitate the deployment of military personnel anywhere, anytime.
| Date Taken: | 11.06.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 11.07.2024 13:50 |
| Story ID: | 484851 |
| Location: | PR |
| Web Views: | 22 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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