Celebrating Veterans Day at Blue Skies of Texas is more than a tradition. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who’ve served. Across our San Antonio senior living community, residents and staff alike commemorate the courage and dedication of those who proudly wore the uniform.

As part of our yearly observance, we asked Retired Air Force Colonel Tom C. and his wife Cynthia to share their thoughts about duty and camaraderie. They’ve been Blue Skies residents since 2022, and we quickly learned that Tom isn’t the first veteran in his family to retire here.

BECOMING SECOND-GENERATION BLUE SKIES RESIDENTS

For Tom and Cynthia, there was never any doubt about their retirement destination. “My father Sam was a Lieutenant Colonel, and he and my mother retired here in 1986, when Blue Skies of Texas was still known as Air Force Village,” Tom explains. “What impressed us most were the amenities, as well as the continuing care aspect that a Life Plan Community offers. It was an easy decision, and we’re thrilled that we moved in while we’re still young enough to enjoy it all.”

Tom’s father did more than just inspire his son’s move to Blue Skies. He also served in World War II—and even wrote a book about his experiences, which Tom later published in Kindle format. The book, A Sliver of My Life, chronicles Sam’s journey from college freshman to the U.S. Army Corps, where he flew his first combat mission at age 21. Sam’s other recollections include being attacked by German fighter airplanes, meeting the enemy on the battlefield, and living with the French Underground during the Liberation of Paris.

“I always respected my father’s service while he was on active duty, and I tried to follow in his footsteps during my own career,” Tom says. “I guess I’m still following in his footsteps by living at Blue Skies.”

FORGING STRONG BONDS FROM DAY ONE

Most military bases offer sponsorship programs that help recent transfers and their families settle into their new surroundings—and Blue Skies has borrowed a page from that handbook. “Every new resident is paired with a current resident who shows them around, introduces them to neighbors, and helps them feel at home,” Cynthia, a retired educator, explains.

Additionally, while our San Antonio Senior Living Community may have been founded as a home for military widows, we’ve expanded to include all retired veterans—as well as vibrant seniors who’ve served in every career imaginable. “You’re surrounded by people who are highly educated, well-traveled, and a delight to talk to,” Cynthia beams. “We keep each other’s spirits lifted.”

Like many residents, Tom and Cynthia embody the Blue Skies spirit of service and camaraderie. They have given generously to the AFV Charitable Foundation, and serve as Ambassadors to future residents. The pair are also active volunteers with the Blue Skies West Thrift Shop, which raised $102K during the last fiscal year—money that goes right back into our community. “We once sold a kitchen knife on eBay for $450, which was pretty impressive,” Tom laughs.

CELEBRATING OUR HEROES ON VETERANS DAY … AND EVERY DAY

Not surprisingly, Veterans Day at Blue Skies is defined by a spirit of patriotism and honor. The annual observances in our retirement community include the presentation of colors and a tribute to resident veterans who have recently passed away. Our Village Voices choir also performs a medley of patriotic songs, including anthems of the six branches of service.

Tom, who chairs our Memorial Day ceremony, also contributes to the celebratory atmosphere of Veterans Day. “About a year ago, funds from the Thrift Shop were used to purchase 10 six-foot bunting flags, which are displayed at the main entryway on Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and the Fourth of July,” he explains. “Cynthia and I are part of the effort that puts the flags up and takes them down. We’re grateful to be able to observe Veterans Day with friends—and remember those who are serving now.”

The couple also points out that the entire Blue Skies team makes every day feel like Veterans Day for the retired service members who reside here. “They’re family,” Cynthia says. “Some staff members have been here for 25 or 30 years—and many still remember Tom’s parents. From housekeepers to restaurant servers to upper management, you couldn’t ask for better.”

SERVING—AND VACATIONING—IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

When Tom and Cynthia aren’t busy volunteering, they make it a point to stay fit and healthy. “We’re active in Pilates and Total Conditioning, and we meet regularly with the Seasoned Soles,” Cynthia says. “Tom calls them a coffee club with a walking problem,” she laughs.

Traveling the world is also high on the couple’s list, and their destination of choice just happens to be connected to Tom’s tour of duty in the Air Force. Before he retired, Tom’s final assignment was in Athens, Greece, where he served as the Air Attaché at the U.S. Embassy. They spent ten months immersed in Greek language studies, fell in love with Greece and its people, and have returned to their favorite vacation spot nearly every year since. In fact, they’ve just returned from a seven-week trip.

“One of the nice things about Blue Skies is that we can just lock our door and leave,” Tom explains. “Landscaping, mowing, and holding the mail are all taken care of and housekeeping stops by to check for things like water leaks. We can enjoy our vacation without worrying about our home.”

SERVICE IS WHAT BLUE SKIES DOES BEST

Blue Skies of Texas has grown to become the #1 retirement community in San Antonio and #7 in the nation for veterans—and seniors from all walks of life.

Schedule your tour today and experience our culture of service, gracious lifestyle, and warm camaraderie for yourself. Click here or call 866-553-5389.