Shared Experience Unites Resident, Employee of Oak Crest

Parkville, Maryland—In some cases, decades separate their ages, but shared experiences provide the foundation for strong bonds between residents and employees of Oak Crest.

Take Brittany Woodard, a Sales Associate at the Erickson Living retirement community. When not working at Oak Crest, she serves her country as an Airman First Class in the United States Air Force Reserves. Since enlisting in January, 2016, Brittany continues to train with a goal of a promotion in sight. Her interest in the military began in high school when she entered the JROTC.

This past January 20, after President Donald Trump took the oath of office, she marched in the inaugural parade in Washington, D.C….

…as did Allan Layman, a resident of Oak Crest, in 1961.

A member of the Johns Hopkins University Army ROTC Pershing Rifle Drill Team, he marched, along with many other groups, in front of the viewing stand of newly inaugurated President John F. Kennedy.

“In formation, it was a precise, synchronized routine with our rifles,” recalled Mr. Layman. “The weather was cold and damp as it had snowed the day before, but we felt very proud to be part of the official ceremonies. I came to have deep admiration for President Kennedy.”

Mr. Layman would serve as a Second Lieutenant in the Army for two years, eventually stationed in Frankfurt, Germany during the heart of the Cold War. Upon returning home to Maryland, he worked as an electronics engineer primarily with the Bendix Corporation. Mr. Layman and his lovely wife of 55 years, Joyce, moved to Oak Crest in January, 2017 from their home in Baltimore County.

Upon meeting Brittany, Mr. Layman was impressed with their connection. “She’s a delightful person, and I immediately noticed her positive demeanor. What Brittany is doing-serving in the military-is excellent, and I wish her nothing but the best,” said Mr. Layman.