AARP Hearing Center
AARP’s community of volunteers is the backbone of the organization, helping the 50-plus population live their best lives. Across the country, these volunteers donate their time and talents in person and from home while exploring the causes that speak to them.
Within AARP’s network of approximately 50,000 volunteers are military veterans, who often give back to fellow former service members with activities such as honoring deceased veterans or helping them access military health benefits.
“AARP volunteers power our advocacy and our local education and outreach programs,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP chief advocacy and engagement officer. “They serve on commissions and boards, mentor young people, check in on folks who need to hear a friendly voice, share important information, and much, much more.”
On the occasion of National Veterans and Military Families Month, meet some of our military veteran volunteers who have served our country and now volunteer to give back to their community.
Lloyd K. Sodetani, 77, AARP Hawaii Maui chapter volunteer, U.S. Army military intelligence officer, 1968-1999
Courtesy Lloyd K. Sodetani
“I have an ongoing project to help Korean War veterans receive public services, military benefits and appropriate recognition.”
Pamela Henderson, 63, AARP Alabama state office volunteer, U.S. Air Force, 1989-2011
Courtesy Pamela Henderson
“I find volunteering rewarding because of the mission and the role in addressing health and fraud issues — especially those impacting seniors.”
Eugene Keith, 73, AARP Connecticut state office volunteer, U.S. Air Force, 1970-1974
Courtesy Eugene Keith
“I enjoy the camaraderie. Anywhere I go, if I’m talking to a vet, our experiences — although different — are linked in some way.”
Leonard Joel Kirschner, 86, AARP Arizona executive council member, former AARP Arizona president, U.S. Air Force, 1963-1985
Courtesy Leonard Joel Kirschner
“I spent 22 years on active military duty and commanded six medical groups before retiring as a colonel. It was an honor to serve.”
Stu Ervay, 84, AARP Kansas volunteer, U.S. Army, 1956-1966
Courtesy Stu Ervay
“The self-discipline needed to be of service to others is the bedrock of American values and freedom.”
Robert J. “Bob” Roberts, 90, AARP Kansas state office volunteer, U.S. Army, 1950-1952
Courtesy Robert J. “Bob” Roberts
“I spent 17 months in active combat artillery in Korea, watching out for buddies and myself. That experience taught me the importance of taking care of each other.”
Rich Nason, 71, AARP Montana state office volunteer, U.S. Army, 1970-1976
Courtesy Rich Nason
“You learn to value and cherish life, because as an 18- or 19-year-old in the Army, you grow up fast.”
W. Davis Hawkins Jr., 75, AARP Hawaii state office volunteer, U.S. Army, 1968-1979
Courtesy W. Davis Hawkins Jr.
“I would not trade my service to my country for anything.”
Warren R. George, AARP Alabama state office volunteer, U.S. Navy, 1958-1962
Courtesy Warren R. George
“The Navy taught me about discipline and leadership skills and allowed me to travel to foreign countries and meet new people.”
