Saluting Our Heroes: Veterans Day at Lutheran SeniorLife Posted on November 26, 2025November 26, 2025 Lutheran SeniorLife thanks each of you who has worn the uniform of the United States of America, including the veterans who are part of our family as employees, residents, and participants across our communities and programs. Your courage, your willingness to serve, and the sacrifices you made in defense of our nation’s freedom are deeply respected and profoundly appreciated. The lives we live today — the opportunities we have and the freedoms we cherish — exist because of your devotion and strength. In communities throughout Lutheran SeniorLife, Veterans Day was observed with the depth and dignity that our heroes deserve. Our communities celebrated the day by honoring the extraordinary men and women whose service has shaped our nation and enriched our organization. LIFE Beaver County When Two Words Said It All: LIFE Beaver County Pays Tribute to Veterans The room at LIFE Beaver County was filled with pride and emotion. No words were needed to understand why everyone had gathered. Veterans, staff, and families came together for a ceremony to honor those who have served our Country. The morning began with quiet dignity. Two staff members who had once worn the uniform stepped forward as the color guard, presenting the Nation’s colors with solemn respect. Poems were read, a prayer was offered, and the Missing Man Table was displayed, which stands as a tribute to those who served but never returned home. The tone of the morning shifted when Veterans were invited to share their stories. One participant approached the microphone, ready to speak of leaving home young, following in the footsteps of relatives who served, and carrying the weight of those who never returned. But as they opened their mouth to speak, the memories rushed in. So too, did the emotion. They lowered their head, steadied themselves, and managed just two words: “Thank you.” It was quiet, unfinished, and yet somehow complete. Tears appeared on more than one face, and the room seemed to pause, honoring both the words and the weight behind them. Celebration followed reflection. Veterans’ names were read aloud, and certificates were presented to recognize each individual and their branch of service. Applause filled the room. Hours earlier, a staff member had brought dozens of small flags, which were handed out until every person had one. Together, the group stood to sing the Star-Spangled Banner to the music. At the height of the anthem, a fuse blew and the sound system failed. The song, however, continued. Voices lifted to fill the absence left by the speakers, and the room carried the final lines together. What could have been a disruption instead became the moment no one would forget. Before the ceremony concluded, Sheila Toomey, Recreation Therapist, stepped forward to acknowledge the Veterans who visit the center on other days and were not present. The applause that followed rose through the room with the same warmth that had carried the rest of the ceremony. Thank you to all who have served and sacrificed for this Country. Passavant Community Passavant Community, veterans rose one by one to stand before a room full of neighbors, friends, and community members— each carrying decades of service and untold stories. The Veterans Day ceremony honored men and women who served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, a solemn reminder of the freedoms they have safeguarded. Among those recognized was resident Joan Gill, 103 years old and the only World War II veteran in attendance. A proud member of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, she received a commemorative pin from Pennsylvania State Representative Stephenie Scialabba, a tribute to a lifetime of courage and dedication. Veterans from every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces were also honored, each receiving a pin to acknowledge their extraordinary service commitment. Zelienople Mayor Thomas Oliverio led the ceremonial placing of the colors, a gesture underscoring the respect owed to all who have worn the uniform. The ceremony included a reading of a heartfelt poem by Passavant resident Jim Dotson and a medley by the Passavant Singers, honoring every branch of the Armed Forces, which filled the room with music that conveyed pride, gratitude, and reflection. Lutheran SeniorLife is grateful for the opportunity to recognize these extraordinary individuals whose service safeguards the freedoms we hold dear. To all veterans—past, present, and future—thank you for your sacrifice, your courage, and your dedication. Visiting Nurses Association, Western Pa (VNA) As we honor the courage and service of all veterans, we are proud to share that Lutheran SeniorLife’s Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) was represented in the Butler Veterans Day Parade by Dave Griffith, a U.S. Navy veteran from 1964-68 and devoted Hospice Volunteer. David’s commitment to serving others captures the essence of what it means to be a veteran on Veterans Day. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dave, and all veterans for their service to our nation and their continued contributions to our community.