HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah – Hill hosted its annual Military Retiree Appreciation Day for retirees from all branches of the military and their families Sept. 22.

The event provides Hill AFB and local and national agencies the opportunity to voice their gratitude for the dedicated service of the area’s 22,000-strong military retiree population, and provide information regarding current benefits and entitlements.

Keynote speaker for the event, retired Air Force Chief Master Sgt. James Lokovic, who works as the legislative trustee for the Air Force Sergeants Association, spoke to the retirees and their families about the work he is doing in Washington, D.C. to help fight for retiree benefits.

“To the veterans here, their family members and the survivors,” Lokovic said. “Our military as it is today would not have been possible had it not been for the foundation you laid and our nation is forever in your debt.”

At the end of his address, Lokovic opened up the floor for questions about new retiree programs and future and current benefits for retirees.

The event also included presentations from various organizations: Defense Finance and Accounting Service, United Health Care and Veterans, George Wahlen Veterans Home, Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, Fisher House, AAFES, Commissary, Health and Wellness Center and Utah’s Department of Veterans Affairs.

“The Retiree Appreciation Day brings together a very important group of former Airmen who continue to serve,” said retired Lt. Col. John Lannefeld of the USAF Retiree Council. “Many of the base operations depend heavily on the retiree community and this event highlights their value, as well as introducing newer retirees to the concept of volunteerism. This annual event presents an opportunity to honor those individuals in our community who have served our country with distinction.”

For additional information concerning retiree activities and events, contact the Hill AFB RetireeActivities Office at 801-777-5735 or email at raohill.afb@us.af.mil.