Hospice of the Valley has specially trained volunteers who have not only served our country in uniform, but are committed to saluting our veterans from every generation, who are facing end of life.
Volunteers meet with patients, listen and share stories about military service, and confer the special lapel pin and flag gift. Salutes volunteers say family members often say they hear stories about their loved one’s wartime experiences for the first time during a Salutes visit. The trust and camaraderie between fellow military veterans brings comfort to both.
To find out more, call (602) 636-6336 or contact us.
Hospice of the Valley is committed to honoring our veteran patients whose service and sacrifice preserve the freedom we all cherish. We strive to meet their unique needs and support their families with our Saluting Our Veterans tribute program. We are so proud to partner with the national We Honor Veterans Program to help ensure excellent care at end of life.
Robert Wright, 90, was honored with a Salutes presentation at La Loma Care Center in Litchfield Park. Wright’s military service spanned more than 20 years and three wars. He was a Merchant Marine, then joined the U.S. Army in 1949, becoming a Green Beret at age 36. Derek Hayes, retired U.S. Marine master gunnery sergeant and an HOV Salutes volunteer, thanked Wright for his service.
Claude Zenkner survived a harrowing battle at sea when he was a tail gunner with the Navy’s Dauntless Dive Bombers during WWII. Somehow his medals were accidentally lost. HOV Salutes liaison Tom Fenner was determined to find a way to replace them. He moved heaven and earth to make that happen and was thrilled when they finally arrived. A tearful Zenker was deeply moved. “I was amazed he was able to get them!” he said.
Carl and Jennie Piccarreta’s lives were linked from the very beginning. Born in Rochester, NY, they lived a few houses apart. They both served in the military during WWII. After the war they married and raised a family. In their 90s, they both are being cared for by Hospice of the Valley. Salutes volunteer Jimmy Vercellino, a Marine veteran, visited the couple and presented each with lapel flag pins. “Without your bravery, this country would not know the freedoms we experience today,” he said.
I began volunteering with Hospice of the Valley in May. Earlier this month I attended the "Salutes" training – a program providing a final tribute ceremony to a fellow veteran. What an honor to give back to those who served. I'm grateful I came across this wonderful organization focused on providing compassionate service with care and dignity.
– Ramona Maior, Navy veteran
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