Tradition: Travis Airmen share turkey, thanks with veterans

  • Published
  • By Ellen Hatfield
  • 349th AMW public affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The atmosphere was festive and the air redolent with the smells of roasting turkey, dressing and pies as a group of Travis Airmen once again visited the Yountville Veterans Home to break bread with the veterans.

For a number of years, the 349th Air Mobility Wing has organized this volunteer opportunity to serve the Thanksgiving meal at the home. Event coordinator, Master Sgt. Justin Pilkington, 312th Airlift Squadron, reached out and invited the 60th Air Mobility Wing to join in the celebration. About 130 volunteers turned out to serve and clean up after the midday meal, a sumptuous feast complimented by sparkling cider and a variety of local wines. A total of 900 meals were served to veterans and their families, who were able to join them for the day.

The meal was served in the main dining room, and in the dining rooms of several residences on the campus. This year, the number of volunteers surpassed previous goals, affording our Airmen the luxury of sharing not just the meal, but good conversation, laughter and hugs with our veterans, those who paved the way for us who continue to serve.

Pilkington was smiling broadly as he looked around at the obvious joy that was shared.

"This is amazing," he said. "What a great event and awesome volunteers. We had more than we needed, so I sent them to help with other efforts. Can you believe this?"

Thanksgiving is just one day of the year that Travis Airmen take the time to embrace local veterans, not only at Yountville, but in the surrounding communities in Solano County and beyond.

"We had a great Travis event over the Thanksgiving," said Col. Matthew Burger, 349th Air Mobility Wing commander. "Most importantly, the Travis military community embraced our veterans through service and spending time to chat. It was a privilege to be part of this opportunity."