Memorial Day is a day of observance, not only acknowledging but remembering and thanking millions of Military Veterans who gave their lives for our county. I take seriously our freedom provided to us by those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. As Hospice Volunteers, a group of fellow Veterans and myself visit our service brother and sisters entrusted under Community Hospice’s care. We meet with them at the Truman House, in hospitals, nursing homes or their family residence.
While visiting the Veterans, we talk and share memories. Sometimes, we can get individuals to open up and talk about events they had not shared with anyone else. I have learned a lot from these individuals, not only military history but about life through their eyes. It is a gratifying experience for all concerned. I am proud to be a military veteran and a Hospice Volunteer.
Through my years of volunteering, I have met some great Veterans. One that stands, in particular, was a gentleman who I met in passing. He was a WWII B24 Flying Tiger Bomber Pilot. Though we never exchanged names, we would run into each other periodically at different Veteran events in the area and share stories. One day, I volunteered at a pinning ceremony, and as chance would have it, this pilot was to be the recipient. I continued to visit him for another two years, and we remained good friends until his passing last year.
If you are a military veteran and are interested in becoming a Hospice Volunteer, we can use you. Please contact Pixie Furbee, Volunteer Coordinator, at pfurbee@myhospice.org or call 330-627-4796.
Pat Antonelli was enlisted in the Army from 1968-71 and was awarded Sergeant E5 upon discharge. He has been a vital component in our Veteran Volunteers program.
Community Hospice is a proud participant in the We Honor Veterans program. This national awareness program focuses on strengthening partnerships and networking with other Veteran organizations to enhance Veterans’ and their families’ care and availability of services. Our goal is to recognize our Veterans’ unique needs and challenges and guide them with a respectful inquiry, compassionate listening, and grateful acknowledgment leading to a more peaceful end-of-life journey.
Community Hospice has been awarded the “Level Three” status in the We Honor Veterans program for our ongoing Veterans Service and Outreach Activities. As part of education and honoring our Veterans, Community Hospice hosts multiple pinning and recognition ceremonies throughout the year and across our service areas for all military Veterans, thanking them for their service to our country. These ceremonies include our Veterans Team and Community Hospice staff recognizing the Veteran, thanking them for their service, placing a pin on their label and presenting them with a framed certificate of service and hand-held flag. Survivorship certificates are also offered, when possible, to honor the patriotism and sacrifice of the Veteran’s loved ones.