Luncheon honors warmth of retiree volunteers Published April 23, 2007 By Rick Power 88th Mission Support Squadron Deputy WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Outside it was raining, a cold and damp April 11--but inside the Wright-Patterson Club and Banquet Center here warmth and excitement exuded as Col. Colleen Ryan, 88th Air Base Wing commander, hosted the spring Retiree Appreciation Luncheon. As the Commander welcomed more than 150 retiree volunteers in attendance she noted their contributions to the mission of the wing and installation as "priceless." This installation could not run without the retiree's assistance and they are often seen in the hospital, Red Cross, pharmacy, and countless other agencies on base where without their assistance we would not be able to service our customers, she said. Retired Air Force Col. Lee Schatzley, Director of the Retiree Activities Office, served as event emcee. Along with help from the project officer, Retired Senior Master Sgt. Nathan Savage, the event came off without a hitch, despite the ugly weather. There were numerous retired members proudly wearing their uniforms. I even had the pleasure of speaking with an 84-year-old Army veteran who was in the infantry during the Battle of the Bulge! With enthusiasm and pride, he clearly spoke of those defining months in our history when as a young soldier he marched beside Patton's tanks. My eyes were riveted to him as he told the story as if the event occurred yesterday, not some nearly 62 years. His detail was extensive and precise and his voice was strong and proud. He is representative of the retirees that continue to serve our active duty members and their families. They love what they do and range in age from the very early 40's to the late 80's. One could not leave that moving event without the words of Col. Ryan resounding in the ears. She thanked them for all they continue to do for the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base community and for adhering to their motto - "Still Serving".