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TACAMO Sailors take time to thank vets

  • Published
  • By Petty Officer 1st Class Charles L. Ludwig
  • Strategic Communications Wing ONE Public Affairs
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE --  Sailors from the Take Charge and Move Out community ushered in the holiday season a little early Nov. 9, volunteering their time and compassion during a visit with patients receiving care at the Norman Veterans Center.
   In all, 25 Sailors and one Airman made the trip. This is just one in a series of visits to Veterans Affairs hospitals throughout Oklahoma over the last several years. This season's trip to Norman follows recent visits to VA hospitals in Oklahoma City, Clinton and Sulphur.
   "I feel that it is important to do this sort of thing because it shows the veterans that we care and that we are proud of their service to our country," said Petty Officer 1st Class Jason Keys, who arranged the visit.
   "By visiting the vets we can be reminded that our country was built on our military strength and power and also be reminded of their dedication to duty and country," he said. "For me visiting them instills a since of pride and strength knowing that they served that I and my family can enjoy some of the freedoms that we have today."
   The goal of the visit, according to Petty Officer Keys, was to make sure that some of America's veterans know that the service member of today still cares about their plight. From the reaction of the vets they visited, Petty Officer Keys said he believes they were successful in that mission.
   "They all seemed to be happy that someone in uniform took time to come see them and honor them," he said. "Some of the vets were a little emotional because everyone that went from TACAMO was telling the vets thank you in some form for their service and the sacrifices they made."
   Having the visit on the verge of the holiday season made the visit even more special, Petty Officer Keys said.
   "It was especially great to do this as we prepare for Christmas and all that brings with it. We love doing this for our veterans," Petty Officer Keys said. "One day we might be there, and I think if I was there I would like someone to come and visit me."
   The VA hospital in Norman serves as one of the primary hospitals for eligible veterans in the south central Oklahoma area.