Veterans Reflect On Memorial Day, But Look Forward To Annual 'Golden Age Games'
DETROIT (WWJ) -- Every Memorial Day, Americans take time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who helped make the country free.
As he prepares to compete in the National Veterans Golden Age Games, Vietnam veteran Richard Colbert also spent Memorial Day reflecting.
The 70-year-old from Harper Woods said Vietnam vets are treated better now than when they came home with events like the Games.
"I think it's a lot better," Colbert said. "I appreciate these Games because it gives people an opportunity to realize that we just don't go away -- we're still active and we try to keep our health up, and that's really what's good about the Games."
Colbert will compete in horseshoes, table tennis, air rifle and bocce ball during this year's Games, which take place in Detroit from July 10 through 14.
"I've very thankful that I was able to serve in the Armed Forces," Colbert said. "Memorial Day to me is the time to pay respects [to] the folks who didn't make it back, doing their time in the service. It's a good time just to reflect on a lot of different things for the nation as well."
Adam Stephens of Detroit -- who was in the Army and now the Army National Guard -- will serve as coordinator of the Games.
"It's a good time to reflect, but I've always said that you want to go out and enjoy your Memorial Day," Stephens said. "Just take a moment and just give thanks. They gave their lives so we could go out and have our barbecues and spend time with our families."
Volunteers are still needed for the Games, which will take place at several different venues throughout Detroit and the metro area.
"This is an extraordinary event for our medical center and our city," said Dr. Pamela Reeves, Director of the Detroit VA. "We are expecting nearly 900 veterans, their families, and others during the week."
For more information on volunteering, call 313-576-1000 (ext. 63332) or visit the event's website HERE.