Deutsches Altenheim Veterans Program Honors Community Members

A tradition since 2010, the Annual Veterans Day Program at German Centre Skilled Nursing is a moving tribute to the community's veterans. Over 40 residents on the campus are veterans, which includes German Centre Skilled Nursing, Edelweiss Village Assisted Living and Senior Place Adult Day Care, are veterans.

US Attorney Rachel Rollins and Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Robert Santiago took center stage as the keynote speakers. Both gave inspiring talks about the significance of Veterans Day and the courage, dedication and loyalty displayed by veterans everywhere. Additional speakers included State Senator Mike Rush; former City Councilor Matt O’Malley; Fisher House Manager Elizabeth St. Pierre, and City Councilor Kendra Lara.

“We are incredibly grateful to all of our veterans on our campus, in our state, and throughout the entire county,” remarked Deutsches Altenheim CEO Michael Lincoln. “It is truly an honor to dedicate this program to them.” Added Lincoln, “Today’s program was especially memorable to our residents and staff because it is the first time it has been in-person in three years.”

The program, kicked off by Michael Lincoln, was followed by a heartfelt Pledge of Allegiance led by Campus Music Therapist Sara Slusarski. The National Anthem was performed by the talented Latonics, a cappella group with students from Roxbury Latin, delighted audience members, followed by the Honor Guard Salute from VFW Post 2902. The invocation was delivered by Reverend Louis Bier, Chaplin, VA Hospital West Roxbury. After touching remarks by the speakers, the program concluded with a beautiful rendition of God Bless America by Sara Slusarski.

Immediately following the ceremony attendees viewed the Deutsches Altenheim Wall of Honor, a pictorial and narrative exhibit of members of the Deutsches Altenheim community who served in the US Armed Forces.

About Deutsches Altenheim

Established in 1914, Deutsches Altenheim was originally designed to serve as a retirement residence for elderly German Americans. As Deutsches Altenheim expanded and flourished, the organization became a centerpiece in the Greater Boston community. Today the nonprofit, with a consistent 5-Star rating, continues to offer superior care in a trusting and experienced environment. Its campus in West Roxbury provides long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, memory care, assisted living, and adult day health services to residents and clients of all ethnic, national, and religious backgrounds.