Veterans receive pins for holidays

5 years ago

HOULTON, Maine — Many veterans residing in nursing homes received a special visit from members of the American Legion Post No. 47 on Dec. 18 to receive a lapel pin for the holidays.

Adjutant Scott Brewer, who also serves as the District 16 sergeant-at-arms, said the purpose of the gift, a small lapel pin with an American flag with the word veteran on it, was simply meant as a small gesture of kindness.

“There are a lot of military servicemen and women who are residing in nursing homes now, and we didn’t want them to feel left out this holiday season,” Brewer said. “Their service to our country is what made it possible for us to be free today. We are here to support our veterans during the holiday season and to make sure they are not forgotten.”

Legion members presented about 21 veterans, who reside at either Madigan Estates or Gardiner Nursing Home in Houlton, with lapel pins during the visit.

Brewer added that Jerry Riley, who serves as the Legion’s bugler at events in the community, was the person who spearheaded the effort.