Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center - Houston, Texas

With flags waving, cheerleaders shaking pompoms, and victory music blasting, the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) welcomed members of the “Silver Eagles” to the official 21st National Veterans Golden Age Games Kick-Off Event. The Silver Eagles, 35 members strong, is made up of U.S. military veterans from across the Houston area who will compete in a variety of sporting events at this year’s Games. William Hill, (left) who served in the U.S. Marines, and August Gonsoulin, who served in the U.S. Air Force, run through the crowd as their names were announced.

The Games are the only national multi-event sports and recreational seniors’ competition program designed to improve the quality of life for older veterans, including those with a wide range of disabilities.  Activities include swimming, bicycling, golf, shot put, discus, 10-meter air rifle, table tennis, dominoes, shuffleboard, horseshoes, nine-ball, bowling, checkers and croquet. Veterans compete in seven categories based on age.  Veterans who use wheelchairs or are visually impaired are also eligible to compete in separate divisions.

This year’s site for the majority of the sporting events, plus the opening and closing ceremonies, is the George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston.

Since 2004, the National Veterans Golden Age Games have served as a qualifier for the National Senior Olympics in a number of competitive events.  The National Senior Olympics is a community-based member of the United States Olympic Committee. 

Volunteers:  More than 1,000 volunteers are needed to assist with a full range of exciting activities taking place during the Games. If you, your family, or your friends would like to volunteer, call MEDVAMC Voluntary Services at (713) 794-7135.

Community Support:  The National Veterans Golden Age Games are co-sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Veterans Canteen Service, and Help Hospitalized Veterans. If your business or professional group is interested in commercial sponsorship or advertising, please contact Mike Mitchell at (713) 794-8779 or Darcie Asakura at (713) 791-1414, ext. 3064.