Although every day is Veterans Day at St. Ann Center, November 11th was extra special. Both the Stein and Bucyrus Campuses held programs in honor of the men and women who sacrificed so much for our country.
This year, more veterans than ever before were saluted. The ranks of clients who are former military increased recently, when the Milwaukee VA Medical Center temporarily closed its day program. Many of its members transferred to St. Ann Center.
The Stein Campus atrium was awash in red, white and blue, with a display focusing on WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam Conflict. The honorees represented many military branches–the Army, Navy and Airforce, included. Sr. Edna Lonergan, St. Ann Center’s president, said of the tribute, “Because of the men and women who served in the armed forces, we can enjoy great freedoms, without fear. We’ll never forget the choices you made for our benefit.”
Music therapist Hannah Goodness performed a patriotic medley of service songs—from the “Marine’s Hymn” to “Anchors Aweigh.” Then, the vets were celebrated with a presentation of pins and a chance to tell their stories.
The Bucyrus Campus adults turned out strong on Veterans Day to honor about a half-dozen clients. Each veteran received a certificate of appreciation. Will Kleeba of Building Services shared a brief history of the national anthem, before everyone sang it. The ceremony also featured a song of gratitude, sung in Swahili by Sr. Kevin, Sr. Celestine and Sr. Brigid, who held up cards with English translation of the lyrics: “May you be blessed. We love you. Thank you very much!”