Starting in the 1980s, much of Walter Reed’s connection to the community came thanks to Frank Jones III, who ran the clubs and catering on the base and lived in the neighborhood. One important contribution was the installation’s participation in D.C.’s summer youth jobs program. He collaborated with Coolidge High School and Montgomery County volunteer programs to train hundreds of high school students over 27 years. He also attracted locals to hold their milestone events at the Officer’s Club, providing income for the club and an amenity for the neighborhood.
History Project, Frank Jones III: Full-Length Interview