Soldiers from Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade of the 104th Training Division based in Lexington, Kentucky, often hear words of gratitude from civilians on Battle Assembly weekends. However, this past December, HHC Soldiers expressed gratitude to WWII, Korean, Vietnam, and Gulf War veterans at the Thomson-Hood Veterans Center in Wilmore, Kentucky.
The Thomson-Hood Veterans Center provides residential care for approximately 160 Veterans, ranging in age from 27 to 105. The center provides varying levels of care to aging and disabled Veterans from all branches of service.
HHC Soldiers spread holiday cheer to residents by singing Christmas carols, playing games, serving snacks, and distributing Christmas cards created by elementary school students. HHC Soldiers shared stories with Veterans who fought in such places as the Guadal Canal, the Battle of Bulge, and the Battle of Kapyong.
Michelle Ewing, Activities Director for the center said that Veteran residents enjoy visits from anyone in the community, but particularly enjoy interacting with military personnel. “When they (the residents) see someone in uniform, there is an unspoken bond that connects them together,” Ewing said.
HHC Soldiers benefited from the visits as well. Company Commander Glen Pegher said, “Our Soldiers got just as much out of the experience as the residents. We went there to give, but we received as much as we gave.”
CH (MAJ) Billy Betts