Crosby Commons resident and veteran Ed Nobile admires the World War II display at the Stratford Veterans Museum.
SHELTON - Members of the Wesley Village senior living campus recently recognized veterans with events at Crosby Commons, Wesley Heights, and Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center.
The Shelton communities organized celebratory luncheons, patriotic entertainment, and heartfelt tributes to show appreciation for veterans’ sacrifice and service.
Gathering spaces across the campus were decorated in red, white, and blue. Community chefs took great care in preparing special menus and dessert offerings for the day.
Residents and team members dressed in patriotic attire, and flags were flown with pride.
Wesley Heights resident Beverly McNichol, left, shares a smile with Lead Resident Services Coordinator Donna Brice.
Bev is a “Cadet Nurse” who attended nursing school during World War II when there was an incentive for women to assist in the national nursing shortage during wartime.
At Crosby Commons, residents were honored at a special pinning ceremony, during which veterans were presented with a certificate of thanks and a military pin.
Christine Thibault and Coast Guard veteran Denise Giattina of Compassus led the ceremony with Crosby resident and Navy veteran Father Steve Krugel, who offered an opening prayer.
Crosby residents also received a personal tour of the Stratford Veterans Museum with volunteer Bill O’Brien. They enjoyed the history, stories, and dedication to preserving the memories of Stratford veterans. Along for the tour was Crosby Commons' own Stratford veteran Dick Millward. The group admired the museum’s display of ceramic red poppies, inspired by a 2014 art installation of over 800,000 ceramic poppies at the Tower of London. Several symbolic poppies were purchased and gifted to Crosby Commons' veteran residents during the community’s Veterans Day luncheon.
“Our veterans continue to mention how special it was to be recognized for their service during the various Veterans Day events,” said Crosby Commons Activities Director Lauren Donovan. “It is truly a privilege to honor them and an amazing display of community when we all come together for this important occasion.”
Wesley Heights residents and team members gathered for a ceremonial luncheon with a patriotic-themed menu and piano performance by resident Carol Osgood.
Veterans were honored with a military hat noting their branch of service and along the community’s Veterans Wall of Honor, an inspiring display of photos and details recognizing each veteran.
Residents and team members led the ceremony with words of gratitude, support, and patriotism.
Bishop Wicke Health & Rehabilitation Center hosted a Veterans Day ceremony with a presentation by centenarian John Kopchik, who shared poignant memories of serving in the U.S. Navy.
Bishop Wicke Administrator Debra Samorajczyk led the ceremony, which brought together residents and patients, team members, and families for words of appreciation, patriotic songs, and a celebratory cake. Veterans received military hats that noted their branch of service before retiring the colors.
About Wesley Village: The Wesley Village senior living campus at 580 Long Hill Ave. offers a continuum of care: independent and assisted living, enhanced assisted living, early memory support/memory care, skilled nursing, and short-term rehab.
The campus is part of United Methodist Homes, a local not-for-profit organization with a 150-year legacy of caring.
To learn more about the Wesley Village campus communities of Crosby Commons, Wesley Heights, Lifestyle Transitions, or Bishop Wicke Health Center, visit our website or contact Megan Guastaferri at
203-447-5454 or mguastaferri@umh.org. To become part of the Wesley Village team, visit our website at: https://www.umh.org/career-opportunities-at-umh.
This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.
