Editor’s note: This story appeared in Sound Publishing’s special section, Military Appreciation Day 2016, edited by Leslie Kelly. Kitsap County’s Military Appreciation Day celebration is planned for April 16 in the Kitsap Pavilion at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds. The event is free and open to the public.
Welcome to Kitsap County’s 2016 Military Appreciation Day.
Here in Kitsap County we have a lot to be thankful for. Part of what makes the area special is the tens of thousands of military members and veterans who call it home.
Members of the military aren’t just fighting for the freedom of our community. They are family members, friends, and neighbors who are making a difference in it, too.
In addition to those serving in uniform, our community is home to thousands of Department of Defense civilian employees who serve our country each day and ensure the readiness and safety of our service members.
Veterans and service members are also a critical part of the local economy, doing everything from creating small businesses to bringing their unique work ethic and skills to employers looking to fill jobs.
Just as they have our backs while serving our country, it’s important that we have theirs. That means if you fight for your country you shouldn’t have to fight for a job. That means in the land of the free and the home of the brave every veteran should have a home. That means people should have access to the benefits they have earned.
That’s why today is a great way to go beyond saying thanks and turning our words into deeds. That’s why events like this are so important. As your member of Congress, I’m focused on helping veterans and our service members to show them we have their back.
That means going to bat for local military installations and doing away with outdated regulations that make service members wait months to take jobs at the shipyard after they retire.
I’m working to make improvements at the Veterans Administration and to ensure that America keeps its promises to service members and their families. I’m also helping veterans cut through red tape so they can get the recognition they deserve.
If you are a service member grappling with a federal agency please don’t hesitate to contact my Bremerton office at 360-373-9725.
The sponsors of this outstanding event and the volunteers and folks who make it possible are shining examples of the dedication we show to our local heroes.
The 2016 Military Appreciation Day has it all. It is an opportunity for all of us to support those who serve. Local businesses, support organizations, and neighbors are all committed to this cause.
It’s my honor to welcome you to this great event spotlighting the services of so many of our neighbors. Your participation today, whether you are joining in the festivities or providing information about your local business, proves your appreciation and dedication.
Thank you for supporting our local military personnel in this way.
— Rep. Derek Kilmer,
6th District
U.S. House of Representatives
About Rep. Kilmer
Derek Kilmer represents Washington’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He was elected in 2012. With more than a decade of experience in economic development, Rep. Kilmer is focused on getting our economy and our Congress back to work.
Prior to his time in Congress, Rep. Kilmer served in the state House of Representatives from 2004-06 and in the state Senate from 2007–12, and also worked for the Economic Development Board of Tacoma – Pierce County during that time.
Rep. Kilmer is a member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee.
Rep. Kilmer grew up on the Olympic Peninsula and is the son of two school teachers. He and his wife Jennifer live in Gig Harbor with their daughters, Sophie and Tess.
