OCEANSIDE — Hospice of the South Coast conducted a veteran pinning ceremony at Oceanside’s Aegis Living Shadowridge to publicly acknowledge the residents who served in America’s Armed Forces. The standing-room only, commemorative, annual event which took place on Nov. 5, honored the service — and sacrifices — of these brave men.
Family, friends and Aegis Living Shadowridge staff proudly acknowledged United States Airforce veterans Alfred Werker, Glen Winfield, Kenneth Gautereaux and Jay Oldham; United States Army veterans Bill Harvey, Henry Adams, Jack Kropf, John Cousino, Olive “Beni” Ingram, Raub Mathias, Richard Carlyon, Rudy Deleo, and Sidney Delson; Unites States Naval veterans Hugh Simpson, and Wayne Shepard; United States Coast Guard veteran James Harralson; and United States Marine Corps veterans Jim Sabins and Jim Wright.
Carlsbad’s Army and Navy Academy’s Cadet Color Guard opened the ceremony with the Presentation of Colors. Joyful Voices, a Hospice of the South Coast volunteer vocal group, performed patriotic songs, including an anthem for each branch of the military.
The veterans were pinned with the American Flag by retired Naval officer and Hospice Chaplain Wayne Tomasek.
“I was incredibly touched by the pinning ceremony,” said United States Army Veteran Jack Kropf. “I didn’t realize we had so many veteran residents. It was incredibly inspiring to be with others who have served — some for more than 20 years.”
“The yearly event affords our residents who served a chance to celebrate their service,” said Parrish Phillips, general manager of Aegis Living Shadowridge. “We’re honored to host an event that gives our men and women their deserved and distinct recognition for their commitment and sacrifice to our great nation. Since our inception nearly 20 years ago, Aegis Living Shadowridge has had deeply rooted ties to the military. We’ve opened our doors to hundreds of residents, spouses, and family members that have served in all branches of the armed forces. Being a veteran myself, this is especially close to my heart.”
Kropf added his kudos to life at Aegis Living Shadowridge.
“People don’t come here to pass on — they come here to live,” he said. “That’s what makes Aegis Living so special. Everyone is welcomed with open arms and given hope, love and care.”
According to Parrish, Aegis Living is a national leader in senior assisted living and memory care and assists residents in living life to the fullest.
“We provide 24/7 compassionate and quality care, industry-defining life-enrichment programming and a community-first philosophy,” he said. “Our Life Enrichment program is tailored for each community and its residents and the veteran pinning ceremony is a great example.”
