Presbyterian Village North (PVN), home to more than 150 veterans, hosted its annual Veterans Day Celebration on Friday, November 11, in the McGowan Auditorium, where residents and teammates gathered to honor military veterans of the US Armed Forces. The room was filled with patriotic spirit as the program began with the Presentation of Colors by local Boy Scouts Mason Kimbell and brothers Grant and Jake Grayson. Dustin Allen, PVN Executive Director, provided opening remarks where he recognized several of his own veteran family members, followed by a prayer for peace and a blessing over all who served offered by PVN Chaplain, Rev. Denise Odom. PVN resident and WWII veteran, John “Lucky” Luckadoo, led the Pledge of Allegiance and introduced special guest speaker, Admiral Pat Walsh who gave poignant marks themed “Words of Appreciation”. His presentation included a moving video depicting the devastation in Japan caused by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake in March of 2011 and the wave of armed service members who helped them rebuild through Operation Tomodachi.
Admiral Walsh is a retired United States Navy four-star admiral who last served as the 59th Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet , throughout his career he also served as Vice Chief of Naval Operations, Commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and Commander of the U.S. 5th Fleet. Admiral Walsh retired from the Navy with more than 34 years of service. His wife, Andy, serves on the Board of Directors for the Forefront Living Foundation.
At the conclusion of the presentation, each branch of the armed forces was recognized as their anthem played. To end the celebration, Director of Sales and Marketing, Heather Porch sang God Bless America. The group then gathered in the great room and alcove to enjoy a red, white and blue mimosa bar and snacks as they socialized.
