Honoring Service: Elliot VNA’s Commitment to Veterans Through the We Honor Veterans Partnership

For generations, America’s veterans have given selflessly in service to their country. At the end of life, they deserve the same honor, dignity, and recognition they showed in uniform. 

At The Elliot Visiting Nurse Association (VNA), we have embraced this mission wholeheartedly through our partnership with the national We Honor veterans program. As a proud Level One Partner, The Elliot VNA is committed to ensuring that veterans receive compassionate, specialized end-of-life care that acknowledges their unique experiences and sacrifices. 

Pinning Ceremonies: A Tribute of Honor 

One of the most moving ways The Elliot VNA demonstrates this commitment is through Veteran pinning ceremonies. These deeply personal tributes recognize and thank veterans for their service. 

During the event, a volunteer Veteran connects with the patient, often sharing stories and experiences from their time in the military. The camaraderie that emerges is an unspoken bond that transcends generations and branches of service. 

The ceremony itself is rich with symbolism and respect. The patient is pinned with the American flag, the National Anthem is played, and they are presented with a certificate of appreciation. Families and staff have witnessed veterans muster the strength to salute or even rise to attention, despite being in the final stages of life. The ceremony concludes with the official song of the Veteran’s military branch, leaving a lasting impression on both the patient and their loved ones. 

A Family’s Perspective 

These moments are meaningful not only for the veterans but also for their families. The Pratte family, whose father George P. was honored in a recent ceremony, shared their gratitude: 

“Our home visit from The Elliot VNA to honor our father’s time serving in the military was a very special experience. The ceremony was meaningful to our father, George, as well as our family that was present. The celebration was personal, meaningful, respectful and well executed. This commemoration had a balance of patriotism, respect, and honor within an appropriate amount of time. We were also fortunate to have photos taken of the ceremony and will cherish the memories and photos for years to come. Our family would like to personally thank Ron, Terry and Lin for volunteering their time and participating in this special honor with us.” 

More Than a Program, A Promise 

Testimonials like this reflect the heart of The Elliot VNA’s mission. Our participation in the We Honor Veterans program highlights a steadfast dedication to ensuring that veterans are cared for not only medically but also honored emotionally and spiritually. 

By integrating these ceremonies into hospice and palliative care, The Elliot VNA provides a holistic approach that uplifts both patients and families during life’s most difficult moments. 

Our partnership with We Honor Veterans is more than a program; it is a promise. A promise that no Veteran’s service will be forgotten, and that their final days will be marked with dignity, gratitude, and respect. 

To learn more about Elliot VNA’s services and our commitment to honoring Veterans, visit ElliotVNA.org.