Scott hosts 27th Annual Retiree Appreciation Day Published Oct. 3, 2012 By Airman Kristina Lynch 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- More than 250 military retirees visited Scott Air Force Base Saturday for the 27th Annual Retiree Appreciation Day. The day began with breakfast at the Scott Club and greetings from guest speakers including Col. David Almand, 375th Air Mobility Wing commander, and retired Chief Master Sgt. John McCauslin. "Team Scott is proud of our nation's retirees and is excited to honor you and your families," said Almand. "We acknowledge the great contributions you have made in America's defense, our way of life and for our blessings of liberty." As the Air Force Sergeants Association chief executive officer, McCauslin explained how he has been fighting to get benefits for veterans. There were also several updates from various groups that work with senior and retiree issues, including medical topics and retiree benefits. Retired Lt. Col. Leroy Gruber received the 2011 volunteer of the year award for the positive impact he has had on the morale and welfare of base personnel and the roughly 23,000-plus military retirees living in the greater Scott AFB and surrounding communities that encompasses Southern Illinois, Eastern Missouri, Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky who have benefited from his volunteer service and commitment. Retired Maj. Daniel Ineran attended the event and said, "I learned more about the bills that affect us in congress and what we need to do to make sure we keep our benefits intact." Retiree Appreciation Day co-coordinator, Master Sgt. Michael Brown, said, "Thank you to everyone who attended the event which was created to recognize and honor those who have served. This day was for giving retirees a culmination of information that can benefit them for the rest of their lives."