Veterans Bond And Share Stories At GreenFields of Geneva
Chipped beef on toast and shredded carrots with raisin is not the typical fare at GreenFields. However the special meal served in a makeshift mess hall, earned rave reviews as more than two-dozen veterans who are residents of GreenFields got together to bond and share memories.
The event came about at the inspiration of Bert Nevin, a new resident of GreenFields and a WWII veteran. “I'm a very strong patriot for America. I think my service in the Army is a big part of that,” he said. “I'm a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and a life member of the VFW.
Bert said that he wanted an opportunity for veterans at GreenFields to get together. “I needed an idea of what that would look like,” he said. “We decided that a great connection that would be feasible, would be what we knew in the service as SOS but called for this event, ‘chipped beef on toast.'”
Bert said that veterans from GreenFields' independent and assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing neighborhoods were all welcome. “About 30 people attended. I was floored by the response,” he said. “I was very pleased.” The veterans he said represented all branches of the armed services including the Coast Guard, Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force. “One gentleman boasted the distinction of being in the U.S. Air Corps which is what it was called before the Army named in the Air Force. Those men who were in the Air Corps have great pride,” he said. The veterans were from WWII, Korean War and Vietnam War eras.
Bert said that the associates at GreenFields took his idea and ran with it. “They decorated with star studded balloons and American flags and authentic war scene posters. They made the room look military,” he said. “The food was delicious. I was surprised, but it was delicious and some people even had second helpings. It was fun!”
The veteran group was overwhelmingly supportive of the idea of holding future events, which Bert said are likely to include speakers. The luncheon he said, was purely social, to give the veterans an opportunity to meet and reminisce. “Knowing who is a comrade in arms…that's important to me. It's an important bond that is undeniable and will never be broken.”
GreenFields is an exceptional LifeCare community offering an ideal location, a retirement lifestyle you'll love, and the most comprehensive plan available for long-term care if ever needed. Sponsored by Friendship Senior Options, GreenFields is a sister community to Friendship Village, the largest retirement community in Illinois and the first to become accredited. GreenFields is located at 0N801 Friendship Way in Geneva. For additional information, visit www.GreenFieldsOfGeneva.org.