Brookdale recognizes resident veterans

Nov. 10—Residents and staff at Brookdale Meridian gathered Thursday morning to recognize the military veterans amongst them as the nation prepares to observe Veterans Day on Saturday.

Stephanie Cook, sales manager at Brookdale, said the staff was excited to be able to recognize their veterans and thank them for their service.

Each veteran was presented with a certificate in recognition of their service to the nation and given a flag pin to wear on their shirt.

Additionally, Mike Couch of the Stronger Together Foundation presented the group with a folded flag and display box to be hung on the Wall of Honor at Brookdale, which bears the names and pictures of the residents with military service.

"We appreciate everything that you have done and we just want to honor you," Couch said.

Among the veterans recognized, Couch said, are recipients of the Purple Heart, which is given for being wounded in combat. There are also veterans who have been awarded the Silver Star, he said, which is awarded for valor in combat.

"These are true heroes of our community," he said.

Representatives with Halcyon Hospice and Deaconess Home Care also took time Thursday to be part of the celebration and recognize the veterans for their service.

Recognized were:

—James Poole — Air Force

—Robert Priester — Army

—Chuck Moore — Navy

—Earl Hoven — Navy

—Jerry Johnson — Army National Guard

—Robert Reeves — Army

—Chat McGonagill — Navy

—Don Wade — Navy

Contact Thomas Howard at thoward@themeridianstar.com