US Service Life July August 2014 | Page 10

FEATURE EDITORIAL Citizen Soldier Connection hosts many annul events including Rocky Mountain Scramble, Friendship Golf Tournament. This year’s Rocky Mountain Scramble is taking place on July 18 at The Broadmoor Golf Club in Colorado Springs. Citizen Solider Connection: Fort Carson’s Extended Family By Lisa Morris Josefak Committed to enriching the quality of life for soldiers stationed at Fort Carson, Citizen Soldier Connection sparks new friendships between local families and service members by hosting a multitude of events that bring the two groups together. The Colorado Springs-based non-profit organization has become a strong link in making Fort Carson soldiers feel like they have a home away from home. “Citizen Soldier Connection’s main mission is to connect citizens of the community with soldiers and families of Fort Carson so they can be their extended family connection and support structure,” said Citizen Soldier Connection Board President Terrance C. McWilliams, who is a Retired Command Sergeant Major for Fort Carson. Promoting year-round camaraderie, Citizen Soldier Connection, with its more than 150 volunteers, provides soldiers with a friend, a mentor and positive off-duty interactions. Launched in 2004 by local philanthropist Don Addy, the organization promotes family-style programs that encourages and enhances connections. “We have recently partnered with Fort Carson to have a welcome booth at the Colorado Springs Airport to greet service members and their families as they arrive for their assignment,” McWilliams said. “We answer questions they may have and provide transportation to get them from the airport to the post.” Citizen Soldier Connection hosts many annul events including Rocky Mountain Scramble, Friendship Golf Tournament and Holiday Connection. This year’s Rocky Mountain Scramble is taking place on July 18 at The Broadmoor Golf Club in Colorado Springs. “The Rocky Mountain Scramble is a nice opportunity for soldiers to spend a few hours with local citizens and make a connection — start a friendship,” continued on page 12 10