Montgomery Zoo hosts 22nd annual military appreciation day Published June 22, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Alexa Culbert 42nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala -- The Montgomery Zoo opened its gates for all military personnel and their dependent family members for the 22nd annual military appreciation day, June 18, 2015.. Guests enjoyed free admission to the zoo and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, train rides and food and drinks. "We're excited to have military appreciation day, " said John Greene, Montgomery Zoo marketing and public relations manager. "Anything we can do to recognize the military. We can never do enough, but we try to do something and this is just one way to give back, and it's a fun time to come out with your family." Attendees were able to explore the 40-acre site and get a close up view of the 140 different species of animals housed at the zoo. "We've been enjoying the military appreciation day here at the zoo for seven years, ever since we were first assigned here at Maxwell. My boys have started coming, and we have been members ever since," said Debby Ramsey, spouse of Col. Mark Ramsey, 42nd Air Base Wing vice commander. "It's just one of those really neat things for the military to get to do. I can't even begin to tell you how wonderful it is that the community offers this to us." In honor of the event, community and military leaders came out to greet the service members and their families. "We covet the relationship that we have with the military, particularly to the Air Force. Nothing good happens in this community without the Air Force being involved, and this is just a small way that we can say thank you," said Todd Strange, Montgomery mayor. Lt. Gen. Steven Kwast, Air University commander, took a moment to thank the community and to remind others of the importance of giving back and showing kindness. "This day we're celebrating right here at the Montgomery Zoo is really an example on what makes America great; it is an act of kindness," said Kwast. "Today is a day where all of us need to ask the question, 'What are we doing to give to others, to pass on this beautiful gift that happens in America better than anywhere else in the world?'"