Page 119 - The History of Veterans at Highland Springs

BARBARA BLACHLY
FORMER RESIDENT SERVICES COORDINATOR HIGHLAND SPRINGS
Probably around 10 or 11 years ago I had a conversation with a small group of Veterans about putting something up to honor them. Our first thought was something in the gazebo. Then we talked about whose names should appear. At this time there was not a “formal” Veterans group and nothing came of it, but it was always in the back of my mind.
Glee Pitney came up with the idea of a Veterans Group, much like the Government Affairs Group. Together, we came up with speakers, Veterans Day celebrations, etc. Then Al and Pat Binko got involved with a Memorial Park and asked Lana Van Giessen, a former Director of Resident Life, to work with them. I involved myself with the speakers, celebrations, and Honor Flight while Lana dealt with the park.
It has been a wonderful relationship with the Veterans and I will truly miss all of them. So Highland Springs, take care of them! They are treasures!
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