Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Armed Forces Appreciation

The most patriotic holiday of the year is fresh on everyone's minds, especially here at Springmoor.  Just recently our community gathered together to honor veterans, residents and staff, with a great daylong celebration.  

The day began with a scrumptious feast, prepared by our very own food service department and served by the administrative staff, with everyone decked out in their finest red, white, and blue.  The festivities then spilled out past the planted eagle sculpture

and under the shelter of an enormous tent in the front parking lot.  

Grateful for the tent, everyone was seated underneath, just as the torrential rain began.  Milbrook High School ROTC posted the colors
and our crowd joined together in the singing of the National Anthem.  Resident Lou Mallia recounted his very special and emotional visit to Washington, D.C. earlier in the year as part of the Triangle Flight of Honor,
no doubt echoing the sentiments of our other residents that were fortunate enough to make the trip as well.
Bagpipe music ushered in a patriotic medley, followed by a roll call of hundreds of resident and staff veterans.  Those present were recognized, in addition to those no longer with us.  Lieutenant General Charles Bagnal, USA Ret., and Chaplain Colonel Bill Bagnal, USA Ret., wrapped up the ceremony, followed by a moment of silence and singing of God Bless America.  


The rains didn't put a damper on anyone's spirits, as everyone headed under the shelter of the main entrance to enjoy ice cream and the music of Razzama Jazz.