Honoring Our Heroes: The Commons Veterans Day Celebration

A Special Edition for a Special Occasion

The Commons Veterans Day celebration honored the remarkable men and women who have proudly served our country. As part of the celebration, a one-time, special edition of The Commons Chronicle was distributed and shared in the community. The edition celebrated residents’ military service and shared their personal stories, capturing the experiences, leadership and dedication that have shaped their lives.

Click to Read the Full Special Edition of The Commons Chronicle

“Thank you for your courage and sacrifice. Your commitment to serve others reminds us that freedom is not free. We are grateful that you chose The Commons as your home and salute you for your service,” shared Executive Director of The Commons Rey LeBlanc, reflecting the gratitude felt throughout the community.

Stories From the Front Lines

The special edition highlighted residents who shared reflections on their time in the U.S. Marine Corps and Navy, offering a glimpse into the leadership and discipline they carried from service into their civilian lives.

Resident Bob Anderson, who commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Marines, spoke about how his military experience shaped his path: “The discipline, training and leadership experience I gained during three years as an infantry officer prepared me extremely well for law school, my professional career, family life and community activities. Semper Fidelis!”

Similarly, resident Bob Adams, who served aboard the USS Charles H. Roan, described the responsibilities he held as a young officer and the lessons he carried forward: “Serving as Anti-Submarine Warfare Officer, leading a division of enlisted sailors and managing the ship’s sonar and weaponry provided experience and maturity not available in the civilian world. My active duty and reserve service gave me the leadership skills and discipline that shaped my 42-year law career.”

Honoring All Who Served

The special edition of The Commons Chronicle celebrated all residents who have served our country. During the Veterans Day event, a special slideshow presentation brought their stories to life, creating a meaningful moment for residents, families and staff.

Thank You to Our Heroes

• Irwin “Ernie” Abrams

• Bob Adams

• Mel Bernstein

• George Boday

• Dick Close

• Robert “Bob” Curtiss

• Alan Derkazarian

• George Edginton

• Robert “Bob” Howard

• Larry Gall

• Dr. J. Philip Kistler

• Jim Kearney

• Chester J. Kurys

• Eli Lawrence

More Heartfelt Messages from Our Associates

Several of our associates shared heartfelt words to honor the courage, dedication and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.

“We are so grateful for all the residents and their family members who have fought to preserve our freedoms. Many take for granted the liberties that exist in our country and the families who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our future. We salute those fallen soldiers and their loved ones for creating a country where we can reside in peace and prosperity. We are forever grateful,” shared Director of Culinary Services Nina Quirk.

“To all our military veterans here at The Commons — thank you for your courage, sacrifice and service. Your dedication helped shape the freedoms we enjoy today. We honor your strength, your sacrifices and the enduring legacy you’ve given us all,” said Director of Plant Operations Robin McElligott.

“Your courage paved the path we walk in freedom today. Thank you for a lifetime of service, sacrifice and strength. On this Veterans Day, we honor not just your past, but your lasting legacy,” added Programming Director Elyse Golibroda.

View the Special Edition

Discover more inspiring stories and reflections from our residents in this special Veterans Day edition: The Commons Chronicle

A special thank you to Emma Kirts, The Commons’ programming assistant, for designing this special edition and thoughtfully capturing the stories of our veterans.