Please allow me to introduce Team RWB (Red, White, and Blue). Team RWB is a national nonprofit organization with chapters located all over the country. Among many things, Team RWB is instrumental in assisting veterans and their families transition to life after the military by offering a like-minded peer group.

While in the military, one forms friendships and peer groups every three to four years, based on the frequency of permanent change of station (PCS) orders. The lack of a similar peer group after retiring from service can leave veterans feeling isolated. Family members can feel this isolation as well. Team RWB fills that void perfectly! They connect them with folks that have a similar understanding and appreciation for life in or associated with the military.  

Team RWB's mission is to enrich the lives of American veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. The Montgomery Chapter has a variety of activities, such as a Wednesday and Sunday morning run/walk, kayaking, goat yoga, a 2.2-mile walk to raise awareness of veteran suicides (average of 22 daily), and Bingo. The list goes on, and there is something for everyone.   

On May 21, 2002, Team RWB celebrated Armed Forces Day here in The Waters. There was a walk/run through our beautiful neighborhood, a shared meal at the pavilion, and then some fun out on the lake. It was just one of the many opportunities that members have to get together with other veterans and their families.

On a personal note, I ran a race in the D.C. area recently, wearing my distinctive RWB shirt. Some members of another chapter saw my shirt, and we connected in seconds!

I encourage all veterans and their families here in The Waters to join Team RWB and enjoy both the camaraderie and physical challenges that the organization offers. To learn more about Team RWB, just go to www.teamrwb.org. You’ll find our local chapter on Facebook at Team RWB Montgomery, AL (you'll need the AL because there is more than one Montgomery). Christina LaRiccia is the head of our local chapter, and she is fantastic!