USO-Metro hosted a retreat at Patriot Point earlier this month, bringing eight soldiers who are attached to the Old Guard Regiment on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall.
Upon arriving Friday afternoon, the group toured the 290-acre property then enjoyed a session of skeet shooting followed by a cookout and some evening games of pool and beachside star gazing. On Saturday, some soldiers hiked on the beach and in the woods while others hit the water in kayaks and paddleboards.
The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard visited Patriot Point this past weekend. These men are based out of Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling and are responsible for providing burial services to those laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. At Patriot Point, the guests were blown away with the property, where they especially enjoyed skeet shooting and beach activities. Several guests also enjoyed the 3-D archery course, while others enjoyed relaxing and watching college football. “They, and I, are extremely grateful for what Patriot Point provides and we cannot thank you enough for your efforts.”
Patriot Point is just one of those places that recharges your batteries and reminds you to slow down and connect with the people around you. From soaking in the sun on the two and a half miles of coastline to going on a crabbing adventure with caretaker, Tim, it is clear why military families who visit Patriot Point return home with such great memories and stories to tell. We are so grateful to Patriot Point and Military Bowl for creating this safe haven and opening its doors to USO-Metro and our local military and families.” –A USO-Metro Staff Member after visiting Patriot Point last week.
This past weekend, USO-Metro visited Patriot Point with nine military families from all throughout the National Capital region. Camping, crabbing, kayaking, and plenty of sunshine sure kept them busy in the first “Beyond the Base” excursion.
Heroes on the Water George Washington Chapter provided kayaks, water activities & endless outdoor fun for the families.
For more photos: ow.ly/mK1H30eg7Z5
USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore brought several military spouses to Patriot Point for a retreat over the weekend of July 23. The group, which included some women who were new to the military lifestyle, enjoyed paddle boarding and kayaking, taking a dip in the refreshing water and all that Patriot Point had to offer.
“This retreat came at a great time since some were feeling overwhelmed with moving and having young children,” said USO-Metro program specialist Amy Altersitz. “One woman is a veteran and married to an active-duty service member and she expressed that this is a beautiful retreat for military families. She hopes to return with her husband to Patriot Point. [Patriot Point property manager Tim Mitchell] was great with everyone as usual.”
USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore brought a group of caregivers of wounded, ill and injured service members to Patriot Point this past weekend. The group had so much fun during their stay that only suggestion for next time is to make their stay longer!
Patriot Point property manager Tim Mitchell gave the group time to explore the property after their arrival, then they loaded up and headed to the legendary Old Salty’s for dinner. It was too windy for a bonfire, so the s’mores had to be oven-baked. The next day included kayaking and paddling the calm waters of Parsons and Slaughters creeks, art, yoga, massages courtesy of USO-Metro partner Comfort for America’s Uniformed Services and a tasty and healthy lunch from Kelly at nearby Emily’s Produce.
“The caregivers really enjoyed their time there,” USO-Metro manager of resiliency programs Ashy Palliparambil wrote. “Thank you for all that you do.”
USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore earlier this month brought four couples to Patriot Point for a “Couples Night Away.” It was a chance for the service members from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to relax on a beautiful day. There were service members from the Air Force, Navy, Marines and the U.S. Public Health Service.
Each couple had the chance to go crabbing, fishing and kayaking and also played cornhole. The group had a delicious seafood dinner at Old Salty’s, then headed back to Patriot Point for a bonfire on the beach, where they made s’mores and traded stories about their experiences.
