Senior veterans recognized at pinning ceremony

BAKERSFIELD, CA. (KGET) — Thursday is Independence Day, and it’s important to thank those that fought for our freedoms.

Hoffman Hospice honored local veterans by holding a pinning ceremony at a senior living facility. The ceremony takes place several times a year.

“One of the saddest things is that some of them have never heard the words of ‘thank you’,” Co-founder of Hoffman Hospice Beth Hoffmann said.

This Independence Day, those pins serve as a great reminder: We have our freedom because of the men and women that have served.

“It feels great,” John Burkett, a United States Navy Veteran, said.

Army Veteran Darrell Young entered the service at 19, he’s now 91. “Just imagine 19 and now 91 haha! I don’t know who thought up this thing, but it was very impressive. It makes me feel good.”

“It’s an honor to put it on. We work well with Hoffman Hospice, we love them! We love our veterans here. Not only is it an honor to thank them, but it’s an honor to work with them every day” Hallmark Living Facility Director Ashley Candelas said.

Hoffman Hospice understands the importance of honoring local veterans– so much so that they’re a Level Five Partner with the We Honor Veterans Program — a title that very few centers in California have.

They do a pinning every time a patient comes on service and give them a certificate of appreciation to say thank you.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.