Scheduled Trips for 2016
April 15th, 16th and 17th
Melissa's Bed and Breakfast, Rehoboth Beach, DE (Completed) May 13th, 14th and 15th Marriott at Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MD (Completed) June 3rd, 4th and 5th Marriott at Philadelphia, PA - NFL Films Studio, Liberty Bell, Phillies game. (Completed) July 22nd, 23rd and 24th Marriott at Hershey, PA - Hershey Park, Museum and Zoo (Completed) |
September 16th, 17th and 18th
Comfort Inn at Rehoboth Beach, DE - Golf & Fishing/Crabbing (Completed) October 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th Long weekend at Kingston, NY (Completed) November 4th, 5th and 6th Fairfield Inn at Rehoboth Beach, DE - Fort Miles, Outlet Shopping, etc. (Completed) |
2016 Trip Pictures and Comments
Comments from the Trip to Melissa's in Rehoboth Beach, DE
April 15th, 16th and 17th
April 15th, 16th and 17th
Name: SPC Dexter Burdine:
"This weekend was absolutely perfect. The agenda was great and well planned. There was not a dull moment with the many activities. On the same note, our family had plenty of down time to relax and spend great family time together. All the program staff were very professional, supportive and fun and we really appreciate everything that the Warrior Weekend Staff did for us. We thank you all for everything." Name: Iveth Gomez, wife of Joel Gomez: "Thank you for the opportunity to get away this weekend and stay at such a nice and friendly B&B. From the moment we were picked up at Ft. Belvoir the welcoming by Scott and Ed was just great. We have truly been treated like (or better) than royalty. Thank you! The tour of Ft. Miles was great and I learned a lot. We also appreciated the opportunity to go to the American Legion Post. MY only suggestion would be to consider the sensitivity of non-smokers and children. Please know that your time and efforts are truly appreciated and we will always remember this weekend as part of our fond memories." |
Name: SPC Joel Gomez:
"This weekend was one of the most amazing weekends of my life. The love I felt from the Warrior Weekend Staff was so overwhelming. It was abundantly shown from the whole bunch of guys and gals that we were welcomed and loved to just be there. The effort extorted from everyone was truly exceptional. From the moment we were picked up, to the moment we were escorted to our rooms, our stay was clearly meant to be fun filled and an exciting experience. The guys were so accommodating from opening doors to answering every question. My expectations for this weekend were blown out of the water, from the accommodations at Melissa’s to the level of hospitality shown us. There have been several B&BS I’ve stayed in throughout my years, but Melissa’s has to be the best by far. There is so much I can say about our time here and the best way to put the sensation I felt all weekend long was being at my family’s house surrounded by my cousins, aunts and uncles. There was so much love and thoughtfulness that was evident from everyone’s caring expressions and acts of kindness. From my family and I we just want to say thank you for everything you guys have done for my family and brothers in arms." |
Name: CPT Jennifer Thurston:
"The Warrior Weekend Retreat to Rehoboth Beach found the smile that had eluded me for…a very long time! The ride from Ft. Belvoir was comfortable and relaxing. Friday dinner was delicious and entertaining. Melissa’s B&B is the perfect home away from home. Melissa was very personable, food was great- you feel like family and oh the location is superb. I loved the private tour of Ft. Miles, Very informative. Wish the tour had been earlier so that the events of the day could have been spread out a little better. Lunch was wonderful, but late because of the late finish of the tour. Bob and Ron from the American Legion Post were very gracious. They had a wonderful meal planned for us but we were not very hungry at that time. I was not able to remain in the American Legion Post because of the smoking. Overall the weekend was wonderful."
"The Warrior Weekend Retreat to Rehoboth Beach found the smile that had eluded me for…a very long time! The ride from Ft. Belvoir was comfortable and relaxing. Friday dinner was delicious and entertaining. Melissa’s B&B is the perfect home away from home. Melissa was very personable, food was great- you feel like family and oh the location is superb. I loved the private tour of Ft. Miles, Very informative. Wish the tour had been earlier so that the events of the day could have been spread out a little better. Lunch was wonderful, but late because of the late finish of the tour. Bob and Ron from the American Legion Post were very gracious. They had a wonderful meal planned for us but we were not very hungry at that time. I was not able to remain in the American Legion Post because of the smoking. Overall the weekend was wonderful."
Comments from the Trip to the Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MD
May 13th, 14th and 15th
May 13th, 14th and 15th
Name: LTC Shon Moore
"Rod and Jim, our drivers, provided our group the "red carpet" treatment while escorting us to two fine restaurants, Ruth Chris and Phillips and showing us the Aquarium and boat taxis within the Inner Harbor. In addition, Rod and Jim opened and closed vehicle doors for us, purchased our tickets and located our meal tables for us. We enjoyed a world class tour experience with a classy touch attributed to the high-level of professionalism, courtesy and devotion of Rod and Jim. Rod and Jim carefully planned the trip by developing logical time lines and bench marks to make our trip an enjoyable, memorable experience." Name: SPC Joel Gomez "This trip was so well organized and the treatment from Rod and Jim was exceptional. They made us feel like family and not in a bad way. My family enjoyed themselves so much in the restaurants and throughout the day trips on Saturday. I found all the locations enjoyable and family friendly. The breakfast vouchers at the hotel were a problem and they were then taken care of. One can never account for freakish events happening. Without a doubt, Ruth Chris Steakhouse was an ewxcellent choice for the final meal. I enjoyed that so much. I am truly thankful for everything." |
Name: Iveth Gomez
"Thank you for a wonderful weekend. Jim and Rod were wonderful in taking care of us and being flexible and accommodating. The accommodations were excellent as well as the opportunity to go to such great restaurants. The boys loved going to the aquarium, it is one of those experiences that they will never forget. Lastly, having wonderful individuals, who are willing to give their time and resources to military families, is so great. Thank you! Name: SGT Sherrick Beard "This retreat was a very relaxing weekend. We explored Baltimore and saw different venues. The sponsors were very cordial and prompt. I will highly recommend this trip to any service member at the Warrior Transition Center at Fort Belvoir." Name: SPC Dexter Burdine "Our weekend was great!! The itinerary was very enjoyable with lots to do and see. Jim and Rod were perfect and it was great spending time with them over this weekend. We have no complaints what-so-ever and nothing but good to say. We want to thank Jim and Rod for everything this weekend and even more gratitude to this great organization. Thank you for everything.!!" |
Comments from the Trip to Marriott in Philadelphia, PA
June 3rd, 4th and 5th
June 3rd, 4th and 5th
Name: SF Anthony Quintero
"Thank you so much for giving my family and me an opportunity to visit Philadelphia. This is the first time they have been here and we loved being able to see the baseball game and look forward to going to the museum. This program is a great program for my family and me, just to get away and enjoy life for a little while without the everyday stresses. We are so thankful for all that contributed to make this trip for us. We give a big thanks to all the volunteers as well." Name: SGT Jason Joseph, Sr. "Scott and Garth and Donna and Jessica are the example and great representatives of the Warrior Weekend Program. I enjoyed my time away from the normal stuff and being on the post. My weekend was wonderful and I can't wait to do it again, if possible. Thank you for a wonderful and unforgettable weekend." Name: SFC Jennifer Brown "I express my gratitude and thanks to the dynamic duo teams of Scott and Jessica and Garth and Donna. Everything was wonderful and I completely felt safe. The hotel accommodations were excellent and provided a close walk to the places we ate. At the game, we ask that you provide the wounded warriors a spot where there is shade due to the fact we are recovering and healing. If provided the opportunity to travel with these excellent sponsors, I will jump at the opportunity. Thank you for what you do for the Wounded Warriors and their families. Awesome weekend retreat! |
Name: SGT Conchita Corbin Nicks
"The team work, finance and coordination required to pull this weekend off has not gone unnoticed. Many thanks to the kind, friendly team. My family and I have been treated like royalty, from pick up to drop off. I did not know what the trip entailed but thas was not as important as having the opportunity to get away and relax with great sponsorship The dining experience at Maggiano's was first class. The food was delicious and plentiful. The baseball pre-game gifts were a surprise. The visor was right on time. It turned out to be a hot day, and seats with covers would have been nice. The Marriott hospitality was "5 Star", very clean and modern. Bed was so comfortable. I appreciate being in the city and to go out and walk around was a plus. Great weekend!" Name: Major Susan Casey "I enjoyed my time on the Weekend trip to Philadelphia. There was not much time to enjoy the amenities during the trip but the leaders were very flexible and had back up plans when the schedule had to be changed because of the weather. The highlight of the trip was attending the Phillies game. The only problem I saw was that the seats were directly in the sun. Because of certain medications the warriors may be on, the warrior may experience side effects if exposed to warm temperatures and direct sun. These things should be considered when making seat selections for the next trip to the ball game. |
Comments from the Trip to Marriott, Hershey, PA - Hershey Park, Musuem and Zoo
July 22nd, 23rd and 24th
July 22nd, 23rd and 24th
Name: Sergeant Fabian Villizhannay
"First of all, I would like to say thanks for the great moments that we had. My family and I are so grateful for this event and we have such wonderful memories because of you guys. The schedules and events are perfect; I would not change anything. You guys managed the time and the places perfectly. Additionally, we want to encourage you to keep doing these events because it helps the wounded soldiers to relax and feel that there are people caring for us. God bless you all." Name: Sergeant Christopher Custer "This weekend has been very great for me and my family. You and your staff treated us like we were VIPs everywhere we went. We really enjoyed how we were welcomed with open arms. Your staff was very organized and made sure that every one of the soldiers and family were taken care of. Your staff went above and beyond to make sure that my family experience was the best. Scott even went out of his way to make sure to win something for my daughter. (Scott actually won a 4 foot teddy bear for Sgt. Custer’s daughter). All the food choices were great. Our family never felt rushed and we relaxed. We would like to thank you for making this weekend possible." |
Name: LTC Shon Moore
"Overall this was a fabulous trip for our wounded warriors. Hershey Park was very conducive for excellent families get away. The Italian, the Mill and Chickie Pete’s restaurants were all great places to eat. Scott and garth are true gentlemen that contributed to ensuring a fun, safe and enjoyable family trip. These gentlemen were very positive, possessed a strong sense of humor, provided courtesy water and Gatorade and executed a well-planned fun filled timeline of events. Only one recommendation and that is to have two departure times while at Hershey Park to account for exhausted wounded warriors." |
Comments from the Trip to Rehoboth Beach, DE
September 16th, 17th, 18th
September 16th, 17th, 18th
Name: Sergeant William Parson
"I really enjoyed the sightseeing and the different restaurants we were able to go to. The trip to Chincoteague was long but we had a good time when we got there. It was a great weekend. Great drivers and great company. I will be back again!" |
Name: Sergeant Matthew Jordi
"Overall, we really enjoyed the trip. All the drivers were friendly and very helpful. The meals were amazing. We were definitely well fed. Wallops Island Missile site was very interesting. Really enjoyed the museum. A printed schedule of the weekend events would have been helpful. We truly appreciate the Warrior Weekend Organization. It was a very enjoyable and restful weekend." |
Comments from the Trip to Kingston, NY
October 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th
Name: MASTER SERGEANT ELENA BERTRAND
"The hospitality and the welcome that my family received are beyond words! The compassion in each and every one of your hearts was seen and felt in everything we did this weekend. It was BEYOND AMAZING! I am very fortunate to have the chance to meet such wonderful and caring friends. This is a weekend I will never forget! I have been deployed eleven times and never had a welcome home close to this weekend. I cannot tell you how much we appreciate your kindness and your appreciation for the military. I would love to be a part of your presence if we get a chance again. If I could ever give back, please let us know. Thank you!" NAME: SERGEANT FIRST CLASS KEN LETOURNEAU "Wonderful trip!!! I was beyond impressed with the people of Kingston and their support of the soldiers and love of our country. I felt the events we attended were fun and relaxing. I liked being told when to be where; it’s actually nice sometimes to not have to do any planning. The only change I would make is to scrap the old trolley and stay with the comfortable bus. We were very happy to be on this trip. There was a great group of people putting this together and we were lucky to go with a great group. Honestly, it was the company we kept that made for a great weekend." |
Name: LIEUTENTNT COLONEL WENDY –GAYLE BLUEMMERT
"I want to say thank you to the Warrior Weekend Program and the New York Veterans Organizations and to all the wonderful people of Kingston and the coordinators involved in putting together this AWESOME WEEKEND. This event was amazing! From the first contact phone call to the warm greetings, exciting and informative visits to the various Veteran Memorials, the tours of Kingston, Woodstock and the relaxing ride on the Hudson River. Everything was done with meticulous attention to detail and care for us Warriors. The meals were absolutely otherworldly and we enjoyed the terrific company of the coordinators almost as much as the premiere chef dishes. My family and I were truly taken by the wonderful attitudes, the great and lively conversation and by the fourth day we felt as if we had really connected with the wonderful people of Kingston and were warmed by the heartfelt goodbyes from everyone involved in this event. We simply cannot thank you enough for making us feel so appreciated and special for doing the job we love. This weekend was absolutely exceptional!! No changes needed – ever. With warm Appreciation, and many blessings for continued success, LTC Wendy-Gayle Bluemmert, Mr. Harry Bluemmert and Masters Jens and Kai Bluemmert." Name: SERGEANT FIRST CLASS THERESA RIGOBERT "I would like to begin by thanking the Warrior Weekend Program, the American Legion Post 150 for sponsoring such a great event. I want to also thank the Kingston Fire Department and Police Department and all the great citizens of the great city of Kingston for their hospitality. You all did such a great job and I would not change anything about the weekend. Thank you from the bottom of my heart." |
Comments from the Trip to Rehoboth Beach, DE
November 4th, 5th and 6th
November 4th, 5th and 6th
Name: Staff Sergeant Isaac Robertson
"This was a very relaxing and eventful weekend. It was nice to get away from the everyday activities. The hotel accommodations were wonderful; plenty of room for ourselves and our two children. The daily event coordinators were very pleasant and made the activities scheduled much better. They were also flexible with what everyone wanted to do. We really enjoyed ourselves and thank all of you for what you do for wounded warriors and their families." Name: Master Sergeant Scott Phanco "The only thing I would change is being able to spend more time with the volunteers. They were great! This is one of the best weekends in a long time. Thank you for your support. It's people like you that make us veterans feel appreciated, right along with our spouses. Thank you to everyone. It was a great weekend!" |
Name: Sergeant Major A.J. Montalvo
"I would like to thank everyone involved with the Warrior Weekend Program. The display of support towards my family and me confirms how much the American people do support us an/d care enough to provide us with a well needed get away weekend. This weekend break is a great relief between doctor's appointments and the constant physical therapy that I must endure during a routine week. The Warrior Weekend Program team members are a true blessing, as is the program. May God bless everyone from the ones we met and those we didn't. My family and I thank you all from the bottom of our hearts. Name: Specialist Jaime Torres "I want to thank you for this amazing weekend for myself and my family. I would not change a thing from this weekend. It was great. Thank you again! |