signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, the birthday of the home's founder, Gen. Winfield Scott, and American military service, past and present.

The event was co-hosted by President Lincoln's Cottage, the original "Soldiers’ Home" established in 1851 -- and now an historic landmark that sits on AFRH-W grounds. Lincoln was living there when he wrote the Emancipation Proclamation, and since then, thousands of veterans have resided at AFRH-W. 

Freedom Day featured military tributes, speeches, community tours, barbecue luncheons, and other recreational activities to celebrate camaraderie on the historic day.

"This is a great way to celebrate our freedom and salute our service members," said Timothy Cox, AFRH chief operating officer. "It is a fine opportunity to reintroduce America to the new AFRH."

In recent years, AFRH has evolved into a modern retirement community with state-of-the-art amenities. In 2010, AFRH will reopen its rebuilt facility in Gulfport, Miss.

Cmdr. Miskulin praised the organizers and participants of the AFRH Freedom Day event.

"Today's event is a glorious tribute to the tremendous sacrifices of our veterans of past conflicts as well as those brave men and women who continue to serve and defend our great nation today," said Miskulin. "Freedom Day also serves to remind us of America's covenant to care for our heroes and is an appropriate time for AMVETS members and leaders to recommit ourselves to our mission of serving our veterans of all conflicts."

To learn more about Armed Forces Retirement Home-Washington, visit www.afrh.gov.
About AMVETS:    
A leader since 1944 in preserving the freedoms secured by America’s armed forces, AMVETS provides support for veterans and the active military in procuring their earned entitlements, as well as community service and legislative reform that enhances the quality of life for this nation’s citizens and veterans alike. AMVETS is one of the largest congressionally-chartered veterans’ service organizations in the United States, and includes members from each branch of the military, including the National Guard and Reserves. To learn more visit www.amvets.org.