Central Square, NY -- Dr. Denise Lyons spent Monday taking care of her own. Lyons is an Air Force veteran and a dentist. She wanted to give back to other veterans and reservists and their dependents near Armed Forced Day, which was celebrated Saturday. So Monday, she did free cleanings, exams and X-rays for 21 veterans and service members...
Dr. Denise Lyons examines the teeth of Travis Keegan, a staff sergeant for the 174th Fighter Wing in Mattydale. Lyons performed free dental services for military veterans, reservists and their dependents Monday.
Central Square, NY -- Dr. Denise Lyons spent Monday taking care of her own.
Lyons is an Air Force veteran and a dentist. She wanted to give back to other veterans and reservists and their dependents near Armed Forced Day, which was celebrated Saturday. So Monday, she did free cleanings, exams and X-rays for 21 veterans and service members at her business, Lyons Dentistry in Central Square.
“When I was in the Air Force, we did this, but veterans and dependents were not allowed in the clinics unless there were cancellations,” said Lyons, a graduate of Hannibal High School and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. “This is a thank you for all the veterans and reservists have done.”
This is the first time she is attempting the event and “I’m trying to work through the glitches.” The appointments filled up quickly with reservists — who don’t have dental benefits — veterans and dependents.
Jeffrey Kemp, a staff sergeant with the 174th Civil Engineer Squadron of the National Guard, said he signed up for the event because he likes to support anyone who supports the military. And he was so pleased with the event he says he will become a regular patient.
“They were all very, very friendly and they had great service,” he said. “When you walk in they act like they’ve known you for years. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
Lyons was in the Air Force from 2004 through 2007 after finishing dental school. She finished her reserve duty in December 2009. She left the service as a captain.
Lyons said she hopes to make this an annual event.
Contact Debra J. Groom at dgroom@syracuse.com, 470-3254 or 251-5586.