RAO connects retiree community to Edwards programs, organizations

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Julius Delos Reyes
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  As part of the base's effort to reach out to the retiree community and give back to those who served, the Edwards Retiree Activities Office offers helpful information to retirees of all services. 

Supported by the 95th Air Base Wing, the RAO provides a liaison between active-duty units at Edwards and the retiree communities of the armed forces. 

"We are the buffer between the retirees and other agencies," said retired Master Sgt. Jay Tyrrel, an RAO counselor. "If a retiree comes into this office with a question, we either answer them or refer them to someone who has the right answer." 

Located in building 3000, the RAO here caters to about 17,000 retirees and encompasses Edwards, Naval Air Warfare Center China Lake, Fort Irwin, United States Marine Corps Logistic Base Barstow and Naval Air Station Lemoore, said retired Navy Lt. Dick Albright, former RAO president. 

One of its many activities includes hosting an annual Retiree Appreciation Day or retiree seminar, Mr. Albright said. Information concerning Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, Defense Finance Accounting System, TriCare for Life, Survivor Benefit Plan and Veterans Affairs can be found at RAO as well as other resources useful to retirees. 

Last year, the staff volunteered more than 4,000 hours to counsel retirees, as well as covering their own transportation costs amounting to about $10,000 worth of out-of-pocket expenses, Mr. Albright said. 

"The volunteers are very important," Mr. Tyrrel said. "They help run the place. I encourage any retiree who can possibly help, even if it is once a month." 

For more information about retiree activities, call RAO at 277-4931 or e-mail at 95abw.rao@edwards.af.mil.