Homeland Honors its Veterans at Annual Event

“Should old acquaintance be forgotten, keep your eye on the grand old flag.” The refrain of the song “You’re a Grand Old Flag” reminds us of the enduring spirit of our country and fellow citizens. This was one of the many patriotic melodies sang with pride and vigor at Homeland Center’s Veterans Day Celebration held on November 11 at its Chapel. A packed crowd of veterans, residents and friends attended the event to honor and thank Homeland veterans for their service and sacrifice.

This annual event official opened and closed with the presentation and retiring of the colors by the Nativity School Color Guard, which is led by Stephen Holmes, veteran, commander and chaplain of American Legion Post 733. While most students enjoyed a day off from school on Veterans Day, four young students proudly volunteered. For Tyrone, a Nativity School Student, the day was an honor and privilege.

“I participate in this event every year,” Tyrone says. “I like hearing from veterans.”

For Homeland veterans in attendance, the day was about remembering the bonds formed through their service, and appreciating the support shown by the Homeland community. Joe Pulaski, a Homeland resident, is a veteran of the United States Air Force. During his four years of service, Joe worked as a mechanic on B-52 bombers.

“It’s a special day to see other veterans,” Joe says. “It reminds us we were part of something bigger than ourselves.”

For Mike, a Navy veteran, the day was a chance to reflect on the man he was when he joined the miliary. Mike came of age during the Vietnam War when the draft was on the minds of all young men. He entered the Navy as an officer at the age of 22 and began working on aircraft carriers on the west coast. His time and life experiences have given him a greater appreciation for his military service.

“I am grateful for everything I have learned and the people I’ve met,” Mike says. “Today reminds me of that important period of my life.”

A highlight of the event was the keynote address from Brigadier General Larry Oakes. Larry entered the United States Army when he was 19 years old and a student at Millersville University. He went on to serve our country for 32 years through active duty, the Army National Guard and Army Reserve.

Larry’s remarks focused on three phases of growth all veterans experience. The initial phase is one of discovery as everything is new for soldiers. During this time, soldiers explore the skills they need to do their jobs successfully as well as learn how to get along with others.

During the second phase, soldiers have the opportunity to learn and hone their skills to both advance in their ranks and better support the greater goals of the military.

“You realize how much others are counting on you,” Larry says. “Your service is part of a grander picture.”

With discovery and learning under their belts, soldiers leverage everything they have learned during the third past. By utilizing their skills and experiences, soldiers attain results which can lead to more successful operations and more lives saved.

“The more you lead, the more you grow,” Larry adds. “The Army approach becomes a way of life.”

The event concluded with personalized recognition of veterans living at Homeland Center. Each veteran received a certificate and blanket made patriotic and with military-specific colors.

Homeland has a long and proud history of honoring those who served our country. The organization is part of the national We Honor Veterans program, which works to improve the quality of health care for all veterans. An extension of the program is Homeland’s Vet to Vet Café, which gives veterans and family members of those who served an opportunity to share their memories at monthly gatherings held in Homeland Center’s 1950s-style Olewine Diner.

To learn more about Homeland Center contact (717) 221-7900.