Mountain Home Air Force Base supports Veteran Olympics

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Samantha S. Crane
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
BOISE, Idaho --  More than 200 volunteers from Mountain Home Air Force Base supported the 22nd annual Idaho Veterans Olympics Sept. 19 at the Veterans Home in Boise, Idaho.

The event, hosted by the Idaho State Veterans Home and the Veterans Administration Medical Center, started with a parade and torch lighting ceremony along with the presentation of the colors and a speech by Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Curl, 366th Missions Support Group enlisted manager and Mountain Home Air Force Base Veterans Olympics event coordinator for the past 10 years.

"Our veterans are a reflection of what all active-duty members will be at some point in our lives," said Chief Curl. "I receive such great joy putting a smile on the faces of those who have so bravely protected our freedoms. By showing our appreciation for those who have paved the way for our service, we are truly leading by example. Freedom is not free, and therefore should not be taken for granted."

Also from Mountain Home, William Heatter from the 366th Force Support Squadron Youth Programs, sang the national anthem and Col. Kevin Connolly, 366th Medical Group commander, gave a short speech.

The Veterans Olympics were created to allow veterans of varying ages and physical abilities to compete in modified sporting events similar to those featured in the Olympic Games, and for many, it's a chance to show off and socialize with other veterans and local community members.

For James Williams, who served in the Army from 1948 to 1952, participating in the games was all for his grandchildren. For Jan Lipkin, who served in the Marine Corps from 1961 to 1963, it was to get out and have some fun as she has done for the past seven years. But for most, the chance to talk with the volunteers sits at the top of their list.

"The best part was all the people who came up to talk me," said Earl Johnson, who served in the Navy during World War II. "I love to watch the other people and see the children."

"It gives the veterans a chance to get out and socialize," said Marlin Lewin, who joined the Air Force in 1950 and served 26 years. "Anytime you get people out in the open and moving around, it makes them feel better."

The base has provided volunteers for more than 20 years to run the events and act as escorts. After the games, veterans and volunteers had the opportunity to spend time together during a barbecue followed by the awards ceremony.

"Once you volunteer for this event, your heart will bring you back year after year," said Chief Curl.