Residents honour veterans in poignant ceremony
Wednesday November 14, 2007 -- Natalie Miller
Seniors in Chatham took time to remember Canadians who fought in the war, this year making a special effort to honour those who reside under their very own roof.

Following the suggestion by a resident of Meadow Park Chatham, during the long-term care home’s Remembrance Day ceremony, participants recognized their co-residents who served their country.

Resident Bill Martin volunteered to lay the wreath at the service and suggested stating the name of each veteran at the nursing home, the war in which he or she served and placing a poppy as a sign of gratitude.

Lydia Swant, co-ordinator of volunteer and family services at Meadow Park Chatham, says this service was particularly poignant as a result.

“Each year we hold a Remembrance Day service to remember and pay tribute to the many men and women who fought in the war for our country,” says Swant.

“It is amazing to see the reaction of the residents at the service - it's a mix of pride and sorrow," she says.

She says Martin's suggestion to personalize the ceremony for the home's veterans was incorporated into the service. "We were touched by his suggestion,” she says.

Members of the Merlin legion helped the home mark Remembrance Day by assisting with a colour guard. Swant says the home’s auxiliary is also an important part of the service and assists by escorting residents who need assistance to and from the ceremony. 

“It is a very important part of our resident's past and we are proud to give them an opportunity to participate in a service to recognize such a big part of their history.”