Retirees gather to learn about healthcare

Published July 17, 2007
By Corey Dahl
21st Space Wing Public Affairs

PETERSON AFB, Colo. -- Peterson welcomed dozens of former Airmen, Soldiers and Sailors July 14 for the base's Retiree Appreciation Day.

Retired servicemembers spent the day attending an information fair showcasing civilian and military programs for seniors, followed by a free catered luncheon in Eagle Park. But most of the attendees were interested in the day's healthcare presentation, which featured presentations by the medical commanders from Peterson, Fort Carson and the Air Force Academy.

Speaking at the base auditorium, the commanders addressed developments at each of their installations and later held a question and answer session with the retirees. Many in attendance were concerned about rumors of loss of healthcare coverage, something the commanders said won't likely happen in the near future.

Though Peterson and the Air Force Academy have both offered retirees the chance to switch to a civilian primary care program, the 21st Space Wing's Col. Mark Allen said that choice is still strictly optional.

"We do face the dilemma of increasing growth, and we're trying to find ways to handle that," he said. "But at this point, we have no definite plans to close enrollment to retirees."

Other topics the commanders touched on included the expansion of Fort Carson's medical facilities, the opening of the new pharmacy at Peterson's BX/Commissary complex and the downsizing of several medical programs at the Air Force Academy.

Col. Jay Raymond, 21st Space Wing commander, updated the retirees on new developments at Peterson, including the temporary closure of the West Gate July 30 and the opening of the new commissary Aug. 3.

He also thanked the retirees - there are 17,000 in Colorado alone - for their involvement on base and around town.

"We really appreciate all the support you give our base, our community and our men and women here," Colonel Raymond said. "So thank you; we're glad to host you."

Retired Air Force Col. Ed Lorenz said he was glad to be there. At the event mostly for the information on health care, Colonel Lorenz said he appreciated the effort to keep retirees up to date.

"I just wanted to get enlightened on what's going on in regards to our future," he said. "The healthcare part is particularly important to me, so it's nice to stay informed."

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