Salute to veterans

To the Editor:

Behind every veteran’s story is a lifetime of courage, sacrifice and service — a legacy that deserves our deepest gratitude. As we celebrate National Salute to Veteran Patients Week, I invite our community to join us in recognizing and supporting the veterans in our lives.

As the administrator for Compassus Hospice in Arbor Vitae and Rhinelander, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the power of honoring veterans, especially through our We Honor Veterans (WHV) program. 

Our team proudly holds a Level 3 WHV designation, reflecting our commitment to veteran-centric care.

Over the past year, we’ve welcomed nearly 100 veterans into our care and held over 40 meaningful pinning ceremonies to honor their service. These ceremonies recognize our veterans with a lapel pin, a certificate, and a star cut from an actual flag, along with sincere appreciation from our team. Family and friends of the veterans are often included in these special moments.

One of the most rewarding parts of the program is working with our volunteers to conduct these ceremonies. Their commitment inspires me every day and reminds me why this work matters so deeply.

So, I ask you to consider how you can do more for the veterans in your life or your community. Even small gestures of kindness mean more than you know. Together, we can honor, serve and express gratitude to those who gave so much for us.

Amy Nowak

Compassus Hospice