Colonel John Schlight

History of the Fairfax: a Military Retirement Community Colonel John Schlight

With over 500 residents, The Fairfax is a thriving community that offers retired military officers and their spouses gracious living arrangements. But in 1982, it was just an idea in the minds of a small band of men and women who envisioned a need for such a community. History of The Fairfax details the story of how this multi-million dollar facility came to fruition-through conception, construction, and conscription-all in just ten years.

Lieutenant General Frank Camm had already enjoyed a distinguished career in the United States Army when he was appointed Chairman of a group that would develop an Army Officer Retirement Residence. In Part I, he relies heavily on the minutes of some 200 Foundation meetings to share the trials and errors, disappointments, and successes endemic to such an enterprise. In Part II, Colonel John Schlight, a retired Air Force navigator and former Air Force Academy history professor, details how The Fairfax grew into maturity and how its residents learned to govern themselves and transform The Fairfax into a fun-filled community.

History of The Fairfax shares a captivating behind-the-scenes glimpse into how one idea created a community with traditions and an atmosphere ideal for military retirees.