Greenspring Honors Veteran Residents, Celebrates Veterans Day

(Springfield, Va.) – On Monday, November 12, nearly 150 residents and family members attended a Veterans Day program at Greenspring retirement community. Resident Bob Zikowitz, U.S. Army (Ret.), who served as the Master of Ceremonies, said “we are here to honor all those who have made the supreme sacrifice.”

This year, the guest speaker for the Greenspring Veterans Day program was Greenspring resident Rear Admiral Ross H. Trower, Chaplain Corps, U.S. Navy (Ret.). Rear Adm. Trower is a veteran of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, and was the former Chief of Chaplains of the U.S. Navy from May 1979 to August 1983. The Chief of Chaplains serves as the Senior Chaplain in the Navy, the Head of the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps, and the Director of Religious Ministry Support for the Department of the Navy; the position also advises on all issues pertaining to religion within the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard. Rear Adm. Trower spoke about the celebratory parades held when soldiers came home from World War I and World War II, but mentioned that no such parades were held after Vietnam or Korea.  He also expressed deep appreciation for all those who have served, and those who continue to serve, stating "we thank you."  

Monday’s Veterans Day program also included a Salute to the Armed Services, as well as performances of patriotic songs by Greenspring’s Choristers, including “This Land is Your Land” and “God Bless America".  Greenspring is home to several groups celebrating military service including Daughters of the American Revolution, Women in Military Service, The American Legion of Greenspring, The Aero Club, Marine Members of Greenspring, Gold Star Mothers, and the Naval History and Heritage Group.

About Greenspring: Greenspring is situated on a scenic 108-acre campus in Springfield, Virginia.  The community is home to nearly 2000 residents, many of which reside in the 1405 independent living apartment-style homes.  At Greenspring, over 200 resident-run and resident-driven programs promote an engaged, fulfilling lifestyle that is reflected in resident satisfaction levels that exceed the industry average.  Life at Greenspring offers a true sense of community and is an exciting alternative to the typical retirement community.  Additional information about Greenspring can be found at www.ericksonliving.com.