The Tomah VA Held Annual Independence Day Celebration
The Tomah VA held their annual Independence Day Celebration on July 10th in the Tomah VA center courtyard. Veterans were invited to participate in various carnival-like games including ring toss, plastic axe throwing, table roulette, skee-ball, basketball and more.
Despite the warm temperatures, Veterans were successful in challenging games to win great prizes. Ice Cream, burgers and brat patties were also enjoyed by many. Favorite and popular music of the past 50 years was shared by the Veterans Jam Band Group, "Behind the Curtain". Live music performed by the group included songs such as Pretty Woman, King of the Road, and After Midnight. The groovy tunes had Veterans, staff and volunteers singing and dancing along. Specific songs requests came from the crowd, and the band excitedly rose to the challenge to personalize the experience and played several requests for all to enjoy.
New this year was a photo booth complete with props for some fun photos! “This year we had quite a few more Veterans and family, as well as new games and activities to challenge them. Volunteers and staff helped make this event possible for our Veteran,” said Amy Olson, Recreation Assistant.
Thank you to our 11 Veteran Organizations for sponsoring the various booths and to our many volunteers and staff who assisted Veterans at the event. This event is made possible due to our committed community partners, who bring big smiles and much joy to our Veterans daily. “We are truly blessed with the support of so many local Veteran organizations and volunteers who make this event possible every year,” stated Jennifer Conzemius, Chief of Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE).
There are many great opportunities for you or your organization to assist in caring for Veterans or doing a service project at the Tomah VA Medical Center. If you or your organization is interested in volunteering, please visit www.volunteer.va.gov to learn about ways you can give back to your area VA or contact our local CDCE team at 608-372-1727. Thank you to everyone who showed up to help today.