Carlisle Resident Takes “Honor Flight”
11-9-2017

Sgt. Milton “Milt” Koosman, a resident at The Carlisle Naples, was one of 72 military veterans who participated in the Collier County Honor Flight’s “Mission 14” to Washington, D.C. on November 4^th.

The organization’s mission is to transport local veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices.

Although Sgt. Koosman had visited the memorials on his own in the past, he was happy to participate in the trip and be among his peers.

“The monuments were pretty impressive,” said the 95 year old who served in the Air Force for nearly five years.

During the day-long trip, Sgt. Koosman witnessed the changing of the guard at Arlington and visited the WWII, Korean War l, and Vietnam Memorials.

Honor Flight participants were comprised of WWII and Korean War veterans and the group enjoyed a hero’s welcome when they returned to Southwest Florida International Airport. More than 1,000 family members, local service members, local police officers and community well-wishers were on hand for a Welcome Home Ceremony.

Sgt. Koosman, a former chemical engineer, is among more than 60 resident-veterans calling The Carlisle Naples home. Born and raised in New Jersey, he relocated to the active retirement community to be closer to his nieces.

He works out daily in the onsite fitness center but also enjoys being outdoors and taking advantage of The Carlisle’s lush, tropical setting.

“I walk the grounds every day,” he said. “I’ve been pretty active my entire life and have never been one to just sit around.”

Although he prefers a more relaxed lifestyle, he likes that The Carlisle offers a wealth of activities and programs.

“There’s nothing here that I don’t like,” he added. “If I were part of the management team, I wouldn’t change a thing!”

The Carlisle offers both independent and assisted living lifestyles. For more information about the community, please call 239-249-6877 or visitwww.TheCarlisleNaples.com.