Military families unite at Goochland picnic

Grilling hot dogs and hamburgers over open flames is a rite of summer. But for about 70 people, a cookout yesterday in Goochland County was about more than good food and fellowship.

Members of the Blue Star Families of Richmond gathered at Benedictine Abbey on River Road for the group's annual picnic -- just one way they provide support for families of active-duty military personnel.

The gathering drew families from all over the Richmond area and included two mothers whose sons died while serving on active duty.

"We have different interests, but we have one really important common interest -- to support the military, and, specifically, our sons and daughters who are serving," said Retsy Kitchen of Richmond, whose oldest son is serving in Afghanistan.

Miniature American flags lined the path leading to a covered pavilion adjacent to Bobby Ross Stadium at Benedictine Abbey. Many of those in attendance were wearing red, white and blue clothing, while children waved American flags.

Some who came for the picnic were soldiers who recently returned home from active duty. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Trey Ware was deployed to the Horn of Africa for anti-piracy operations.

He will leave Richmond tomorrow for Jacksonville, Fla., where he will be stationed. But before leaving, he came to the picnic with his mother, Juanita Branson.

Ware says it eases his mind to know that his mother has a group like the Blue Star Families to turn to for comfort.

These families readily offer that support to those left behind while their loved ones put their lives on the line. The group has made an impact on those families it tries to reach.

"Right now, I don't have anyone that is deployed; I can be there for the people that are," said Rebecca Hickman, president of Blue Star Families of Richmond. "I know that when I do, they'll be there for me."

Last year, one woman, whose husband was deployed, had just moved to the Richmond area with her children. She was informed of the Blue Star Families and turned to them for support while her husband was away.

"This group has been fantastic because the men and women in this . . . group have a lot of empathy, and they understand what it's like," Kitchen said. "I know other friends are very supportive, but these people really, really get it. They either have been or will be in the same situation."

Contact Jeremy Slayton at (804) 649-6861 or .