Veterans now living at Fair Acres, Delaware County’s skilled care facility in Middletown, shared memories of World War II during a ceremonial event aimed at keeping the Spirit of ’45 alive – a spirit of self-sacrifice, courage and patriotism.
The Spirit of ’45 event was hosted Aug. 9 at Fair Acres by VITAS Innovative Hospice Care, one of several hospice providers at Fair Acres, in cooperation with Delaware County Council and the Fair Acres administration.
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Fair Acres residents and veterans of all wars were treated to an honor guard presentation, a flag-folding ceremony, taps and a special cake depicting the famous VJ Day kiss between a serviceman and a nurse. The honor guard was provided by members of American Legion Post 668.
Delaware County Council Vice-Chairman Mario J. Civera Jr., a U.S. Air Force veteran and Council’s liaison to Fair Acres, said the goal of the Spirit of ’45 movement is to honor everyone for their collective and personal sacrifice during World War II, both those who served in uniform and those on the homefront who supported the troops.
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“In 2010, the U.S. Congress passed a resolution recognizing the second Sunday in August as ‘Spirit of ’45 Day’ to commemorate the anniversary of the end of World War II on Aug. 14, 1945,” Councilman Civera said. “We take this time to thank our veterans, to honor them, and to tell younger generations their story of bravery and sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Linda Frangipane, a VITAS representative, joined Councilman Civera and U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan in presenting medals and certificates of recognition to all of the veterans in attendance. Fair Acres is home to 140 veterans of all wars, including 40 World War II veterans.
“We hope that the can-do attitude and commitment of ‘the Greatest Generation’ will help inspire a renewal of national unity in America at a time when our country must still meet historic challenges,” said Frangipane, the veteran’s liaison for VITAS.
After the flag-folding ceremony, done by the American Legion members, the flag was presented to World War II Navy veteran Everett Swanson, 97, the oldest veteran living at Fair Acres. He was also stationed at Pearl Harbor when the base was bombed by Japan forces.
Bill Sweeney, 91, an Army veteran of World War II, moved to Fair Acres two years ago. He was involved in two major events, the Normandy Invasion and the Battle of the Bulge.
Frank Wolaniuk, a Marine veteran of World War II, had a banner on his walker stating “Once a Marine, Always a Marine.”
For information about Fair Acres, visit the website at www.fairacres.org.
