Team Whiteman reaches out to local veterans

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Torey Griffith
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg, Mo., was vibrant with the sound of music Tuesday afternoon as volunteers from Whiteman Air Force Base produced the "Let's Celebrate" road show. 

The event began as the Whiteman Base Honor Guard posted the colors while Laura Brunner, who runs the Community Center, played the Star-Spangled Banner on her flute.
Julie Curtis, a speech pathologist at Whiteman Elementary, dazzled the veterans' eyes and ears as she performed several Patsy Cline songs in full costume. 

"It's an amazing feeling to give back to our veterans," Mrs. Curtis said. "They are the heroes, and I am happy to come and entertain them." 

Local talent Sarah Wesley performed a lyrical dance to Carolyn Arends' "Seize the Day." 

"I've been doing this for about nine years," said the 17-year-old dancer, "It's always a pleasure to come here and dance for the veterans. I enjoy it a lot." 

Those affiliated with Whiteman who didn't perform, served refreshments and aided with set-up and tear-down. 

"It's a real honor to do this," said Airman 1st Class Eric Gonzalez, Whiteman Base Honor Guard. "Everyone should try it at least once. After all, that could be you or me in 50 years."
Volunteers are always needed and welcome at the Missouri Veterans Home. 

"We appreciate the partnership we have with Whiteman Air Force Base," said Jan Smith, Director of Volunteer Services at the veterans home. "If we have an activity or a project going on, it is such a relief to know we can count on the military to come and help us out." 

There are a variety of volunteer opportunities at the veterans home, ranging from serving meals to casual conversation. 

"Just visiting is a very important volunteer function," said Mrs. Smith. "The veterans really enjoy the camaraderie that comes from that." 

For more information about volunteering at the Missouri Veterans Home, call Mrs. Smith at (660)-543-5064.