Retiree Expo recaps benefits for retirees and family

Hundreds of retired service members and their families gathered to seek out post-retirement opportunities during the 17th Annual Retiree Exposition at Camp Pendleton’s South Mesa Club, Sept. 18.

The event was sponsored by Marine Corps Community Services for those in need of benefits that are available after serving at least 20 years in the military. Each program was offered through the Retired Activities Office, which refers retired members to appropriate service organizations.

The Retired Activities Office is the central point for all military retirees and family members to obtain information on pending post-retirement issues that affect them, and provide various resources to answer their questions.

“One of the challenges we have as a base is getting the information out to the communities,” said Col. Nicholas F. Marano, commanding officer, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. “We have events like this to spread the word of the opportunities available to those who need assistance.”

The expo featured various vendors that offered information to the retirees and their family members to help them throughout the course of their retirement.

After the attendees had an opportune amount of time to view the vendors, a brief was given informing patrons about financial issues, post-service entitlements, health care benefits, and legislative updates.

“You all live in a legacy that you have earned,” said Marano. “Now is the time to take advantage of the opportunities that you worked so hard for in the first place.”

For more information about Retired Activities Office, the sponsors at the event, or volunteer opportunities, call 760-725-3400 or 725-9789.

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