Past, present vets come together at Dayton VA picnic

  • Published
  • By Capt. Elizabeth Caraway
  • 445th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DAYTON, ohio --  More than 250 veterans gathered for food, fellowship, and fun at the annual Veterans Affairs Medical Center Picnic here on June 7, 2014. Members of the 88th Air Base Wing and 445th Airlift Wing joined the Dayton Veterans Affairs Medical Center residents and families to celebrate service and the music of the Air Force Band of Flight's 'Systems Go.'

The picnic has been a mainstay since 1996 for VAMC residents. Many of the veterans are long-term residents and others stay for 30-, 60, or 90-day respite care. Events are eagerly anticipated.

"Our veterans enjoy this opportunity to socialize with others in uniform and share the experience with their family members," said Kenneth Spain, VAMC voluntary services. "It's nice for them to get out the building on a beautiful day like today and enjoy themselves."

The Air Force Sergeants Association Kittyhawk Chapter 751 sponsors two annual events for VA residents.

"We are honored to be able to bring these veterans two yearly events--the indoor holiday party and this outdoor picnic," said Master Sgt. Dionne Taylor, National Air and Space Intelligence Center geospatial intelligence flight chief and AFSA trustee.

The picnic was more than an opportunity to eat burgers and hot dogs and listen to music, though.

"These events mean so much to the residents," said Kimberly Frisco, Dayton VA Medical Center Chief of Community Relations. "It shows them that they are not forgotten and that they're a vibrant part of the community. They love seeing men and women in uniform."

Residents also enjoy sharing their stories, said Frisco.

"I truly do love [the picnic]. You don't understand how much we appreciate it all--not just the food and entertainment, but spending time with everyone," said retired Army Sgt. Gosie E. Reynolds, a resident and enthusiastic dancer during the event.

Reynolds' entrance to military service was unusual; he was drafted into service in 1960 at the age of 25. At the time, he had already been married for nine years. He wed his 14-year-old bride when he was just 16. He was shocked when he was informed he'd been drafted.

"My birthday was in just a few weeks," he said. "I was literally the oldest guy in my basic training flight; I was there with 17 year olds. I was married with two kids, but I headed out to Fort Knox."

Due to his age, Reynolds came out of basic training as a sergeant. He was trained as the number one man on the 105 mm howitzer, a job he enjoyed, but that was physically punishing.

"The recoil on the gun was powerful and was known for destroying shoulders when it would kick back."

Reynolds was sent overseas to Germany, but injuries sent him home early.
"Every day is a gift from God. We take so very much for granted," Reynolds reflected. "Every day of my life, I try to do something to help someone, and it doesn't have to be anything big--a kind word, small things. Find a way to show others love and respect."