Stories Archive
March 28th
“We fought for the man next to us.”
Last Patrol volunteers honored WWII Army Veteran Harold Koeplin. Harold was wounded in the Battle of Bulge. Today, while on his Last Patrol, he lives at the @Clemson Downs Retirement and Assisted Living Facility.
Harold was drafted into the Army in August of 1944. He served as an Army Rifleman and went to fight in Germany. He was wounded by a mortar shell during the Battle of Bulge and evacuated. In the hospital, Harold was shocked to find the actor Mickey Rooney in the bed next to him. “So when he got back rubs, so did I,” Harold explained with a smile.
After the war Harold graduated from Michigan State University and still follows the school’s sports teams. He was commissioned as an Army officer when he graduated. He went into the hospitality business and served 35 years as department head of Food Services in the General Motors Institute. Harold served again in the Army stateside during Korean War. Detroit Tigers baseball is a passion for him. He and his wife Lucille have four children and eight grandchildren.
March 10th
“Our whole family is grateful.”
Last Patrol volunteers, family, and friends celebrated the life and service of Winston, an Army veteran in home hospice care with @Heart of Hospice of the Upstate.
Winston was stationed in Germany in the 1960s. His military specialty was floating bridge construction. He joined the Army Reserves after active duty and worked his whole life in construction. He has three children and grandchildren.
America respects and honors his military service, and we owe him everlasting gratitude.
Sadly, within a few days of our ceremony, Winston passed away. His family’s love as we honored him was a beautiful thing to see.
February 27th
“Jimmy, you make us proud.”
Last Patrol volunteers rallied in Anderson, SC, to honor Jimmy Utley, an Army veteran in hospice care.
Jimmy was stationed in Germany during the Cold War.
After service, Jimmy used his military experience to get a job in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). He worked at many airports around the country, taking his family with him.
Our honor ceremony showed Jimmy and his family that we respect and honor his military service and that our country owes him everlasting gratitude. He received several patriotic gifts and recognition, including a Congressional Letter from @Congressionman Jeff Duncan.
Our ceremony was done in cooperation with @MSA Health and Hospice
February 13th
“We salute your service, Marine!”
Rudy is a Marine Corp veteran in hospice care in Columbia, SC. Family, friends, and Last Patrol volunteers gathered to honor him in his home. @MSA hospice, who is caring for him, joined us.
Rudy was born in Philadelphia in 1939. He enlisted in 1956 at the age of 18 to serve his country. Following military service, he went to work in the Philadelphia Havel Shipyard while attending college. After graduation, he became a computer engineer for Fisher & Porter. Employed there he went on to install computer systems in ships and aircraft around the world.
Rudy is married and has 3 children, 5 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren.
It was our privilege to honor Rudy with gifts and commendations as he proceeds on his Last Patrol.
January 21st
“He had a calling to serve.”
Ken is an Air Force veteran on his last patrol. We honored him on the edge of life’s midnight. A dozen Last Patrol volunteers attended our ceremony, conducted in cooperation with @Pruitt Hospice.
During his military service, Ken worked as an Aircraft mechanic, making Staff Sergeant before leaving the service. Afterwards, he worked as a civilian mechanic and entered the ministry. He married his sweetheart, Carlene, and they had 3 sons. She proceeded him to Post Everlasting. Kenneth retired from Greenville County, SC, after working many years with people with special needs.
Volunteers advanced one-by-one and saluted Ken. Service magnifies. Respect endures.
January 9th
“We are privileged to honor you, Sir.”
Last Patrol volunteers in Washington State honored Donnie Davis, a WWII veteran. Donnie grew up in Vermont. At 18, in 1944, we joined the Army Air Corp and was trained as a ball gunner on B-17 bombers.
He would go on the fly on 25 bombing missions with the 388th Bomb Group against Nazi Germany.
The B-17s flew during daylight for more precise targeting. The bombers would throw out clouds of aluminum foil strips to confuse the radar. They would fly at 20-25,000 feet to make it harder on the enemy fighters. The cabins were not pressurized so the crew members had to wear oxygen masks. The temperature was usually 20-50 degrees below zero. Their flight suits were like electric blankets to try to prevent frostbite.
The B-17s crews were the second highest casualties – 5 out of 10 men who flew on a B-17 in WWII were dead at the end of the war. (Only German Submariners were higher.)
Donnie still takes pride in his military service and was grateful for our honor ceremony, during which he received several items of special recognition and a shadow box with his earned medals.
December 20th
Our OPERATION HOLIDAY SALUTE impacted so many people. It reminds us that LOVE always WINS.
We’ve received many kind notes from families who have a loved on their Last Patrol who received a holiday card packet. Here’s just one example from a spouse:
“Thank you for sending my husband the beautiful Christmas Cards from all over the USA! He is in hospice care at home with us with Transitions Life Care. We appreciate so much that the volunteers are taking the time for the veterans and families! What a gift you are!”
See these pictures of volunteers out delivering cards.
December 8th
Our team in Florida honored Joe Frechette, an Army Air Corp pilot in WWII, who is in hospice care with @Accent Hospice.
Here’s part Joe’s story the day he was shot down:
Mission No 154 (For the 457th Bomb Group) – November 30, 1944 – Target – Bohlen, Germany (synthetic oil refinery). That day the 457th lost five aircraft; had 24 damaged and 45 crew members were KIA/MIA from this mission.
“We were flying in the rear of the high box formation. While making our first bomb run we were hit by heavy flak, which knocked out our 3 and 4 engines. We fortunately were able to feather them. The plane off our right wing, the “Hamtrammak Mama,” was also hit and appeared to burst into flames and dove out of formation. We continued on our bomb run, losing a little air speed and altitude but were able to stay near enough in formation to make the second bomb run… Then we immediately turned toward the west to return to allied lines. We jettisoned all the weight we could, including the ball turret, but continued slowly losing altitude and some airspeed as our #2 engine was losing oil. Our #2 engine finally “froze up” and we bailed out in the clouds between 1200 and 1500 feet. Our plane crashed within view of my landing area.”
Joe was then capture and made a POW for nearly 6 months, before being liberated.
What was the biggest lesson you learned as POW? “You can overcome anything.”
We salute you, Joe, as you proceed on your Last Patrol
October 28th
Our team in Florida honored Joe Frechette, an Army Air Corp pilot in WWII, who is in hospice care with @Accent Hospice.
Here’s part Joe’s story the day he was shot down:
Mission No 154 (For the 457th Bomb Group) – November 30, 1944 – Target – Bohlen, Germany (synthetic oil refinery). That day the 457th lost five aircraft; had 24 damaged and 45 crew members were KIA/MIA from this mission.
“We were flying in the rear of the high box formation. While making our first bomb run we were hit by heavy flak, which knocked out our 3 and 4 engines. We fortunately were able to feather them. The plane off our right wing, the “Hamtrammak Mama,” was also hit and appeared to burst into flames and dove out of formation. We continued on our bomb run, losing a little air speed and altitude but were able to stay near enough in formation to make the second bomb run… Then we immediately turned toward the west to return to allied lines. We jettisoned all the weight we could, including the ball turret, but continued slowly losing altitude and some airspeed as our #2 engine was losing oil. Our #2 engine finally “froze up” and we bailed out in the clouds between 1200 and 1500 feet. Our plane crashed within view of my landing area.”
Joe was then capture and made a POW for nearly 6 months, before being liberated.
What was the biggest lesson you learned as POW? “You can overcome anything.”
We salute you, Joe, as you proceed on your Last Patrol
November 15th
“You made my day.”
Befriending, Honoring, and Supporting veterans in hospice care is our mission. Last Patrol honored Richard Wright, an Army Veteran in Hospice Care. Look at his sharp salute!
During the ceremony, Richard received a Congressional Letter, certificates from Last Patrol and the American Legion, as well as several other patriotic handcrafts. He was also presented a packet of cards of gratitude that were sent by Americans around the country.
We salute you, Sir, as you proceed on your Last Patrol
November 5th
“Thank you for remembering my military service.”
Last Patrol volunteers honored veterans at @The Parker, an Inspirit Senior Living Community. At this beautiful event, multiple veterans of different branches were appreciated and recognized.
After performing a ceremony that included patriotic music, the our volunteers circulated among those veteran residents being honored, exchanging words of gratitude and praise with each. These veterans were presented cards of friendship, certificates from Veteran’s Last Patrol and the @The American Legion, and also provided a set of dog tags.
The event was very much enjoyed by all --- patients AND volunteers
October 28th
Our team in Florida honored Joe Frechette, an Army Air Corp pilot in WWII, who is in hospice care with @Accent Hospice.
Here’s part Joe’s story the day he was shot down:
Mission No 154 (For the 457th Bomb Group) – November 30, 1944 – Target – Bohlen, Germany (synthetic oil refinery). That day the 457th lost five aircraft; had 24 damaged and 45 crew members were KIA/MIA from this mission.
“We were flying in the rear of the high box formation. While making our first bomb run we were hit by heavy flak, which knocked out our 3 and 4 engines. We fortunately were able to feather them. The plane off our right wing, the “Hamtrammak Mama,” was also hit and appeared to burst into flames and dove out of formation. We continued on our bomb run, losing a little air speed and altitude but were able to stay near enough in formation to make the second bomb run… Then we immediately turned toward the west to return to allied lines. We jettisoned all the weight we could, including the ball turret, but continued slowly losing altitude and some airspeed as our #2 engine was losing oil. Our #2 engine finally “froze up” and we bailed out in the clouds between 1200 and 1500 feet. Our plane crashed within view of my landing area.”
Joe was then capture and made a POW for nearly 6 months, before being liberated.
What was the biggest lesson you learned as POW? “You can overcome anything.”
We salute you, Joe, as you proceed on your Last Patrol
October 15th
Earl Cooper was born in 1931. He entered the Army in 1951 and served in the Korean War. He is not in hospice care with @Providence Care
Earl grew up in Greer, SC, and following military service went into the family Gas business, then later started a successful commerical construction business that did significant work with Wynn Dixie Grocery stores. Earl has 2 children, 4 grandkids, and 3 great grands. He loves the Clemson Tigers, NASCAR, and fishing. “He’ll be fishing in Heaven,” his daughter says. And, most importantly, he wants to be remembered as a man that “loved the Lord.”
Sir, we salute you as you proceed on your Last Patrol
October 6th
There are far too many lonely veterans in Nursing Homes. With COVID restrictions lessened, our volunteers can now finally visit veterans again in these facilities around the country. That’s brotherhood in action --- a personal connection with veterans on their Last Patrol. That’s our mission in action: Befriend, Honor, and Support.
These pictures are from an Honor Ceremony conducted at the @Lancaster Grove Lancaster SC. We were invited by @Agape Hospice. Eight veterans were honored. There were smiles and gratitude all around. Check out the patriotic cake!
September 12th
Tom is a dedicated Marine. He served from 1960-1964. He’s now in home hospice care with @SpartanburgRegionalHospital
Family invited local Last Patrol volunteers to conduct an honor ceremony for Tom. His service and commitment to country were celebrated with a presentation at this home. He was presented several patriotic gifts and warmly embraced by his fellow veterans.
After military service, Tom worked for the New York Telephone company for 30 years. He retired as an Engineering Manager. Old cars and playing golf were favorite hobbies. He’s married and has one son.
We salute you, Sir, as you proceed on your last patrol.
September 4th
Jud served his country from 1959-1963 in the Air Force during the Cold War, including the Cuban Missile Crisis. He is now in hospice care with @Pruitt Health. He is 80.
After military service, Jud joined the FAA and served there several decades. He is married, has two daughters, and blessed with 14 grand & great grandchildren. He was passionate about gold and the Clemson Tigers.
Our volunteers and family honored Judson with a Last Patrol Honor Ceremony. We presented him several patriotic gifts and recognized his commitment to service. A favorite story of his: His Air Force plane fly over the Artic Circle one Christmas. We were monitoring the Soviet Union. A Soviet plane flew close and displayed a “Merry Christmas” sign in the window. A small act of humanity in a hostile world, Jud always remembered.
We salute you, Sir, as you proceed on your last Patrol.
August 22nd
“Last Patrol volunteers in Augusta, GA, honor an Army WWII veteran.”
John Archer fought for his country in North Africa and Europe during WWII. Archer is in hospice care with @Kindred Hospice. A Last Patrol volunteer has visited him weekly and coordinated with Kindred Hospice for this event to celebrate his service. Volunteers joined the family to honor Archer. We presented him with a Last Patrol Certificate of Appreciation, a customized hat and vest, a Patriot’s Quilt, and a packet of cards of gratitude from Americans around the country.
After the war, Archer worked as a Textile Design Engineer. He is still active and spirited and a pleasure to visit and talk with. We salute you, Sir, as you proceed on your Last Patrol.
August 4th
Owen Gooding, an Army WWII veteran, served his nation as military truck driver delivering supplies to the front lines. After the war, Owen had the special and delicate task as a jeep driver transporting families of soldiers killed in action visiting gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery. He says he will never forget these experiences. After the war, Owen returned to Florida where he was raised. He spent many years as a heavy equipment operator working in water canals.
Today, Owen is in home hospice care with @Providence Care.
We are with you, Sir. You served us; we serve you.
July 19th
Volunteers conduct an Honor Ceremony for a career Navy veteran!
Tom served in both World War II and Korea. During WWII, most of his duty was aboard a fuel tanker, a particular dangerous mission. He participated in the invasion of Okinawa in the fight against Japan. He served on many ships during the military career. During the Korean War, he served on the USS Lake Champlain aircraft carrier.
Tom retired as a Senior Chief. He is married and has children. Last Patrol volunteers and family gathered to honor Tom, and our presentation included a medals case and a letter from @Senator Tim Scott.
Tom’s first job as a young boy was a “Soda Jerk.” He loves gardening and NASCAR and was a first-rate bowler. Tom is now in home hospice care in Columbia, SC, with @MSA Hospice
July 8th
“It was hard, very hard,” said Albert, a Navy combat veteran, reflecting on his Vietnam service.
Today Albert is in hospice care. With only one family member nearby, Albert rarely receives visitors. Last Patrol volunteers in Miami, Florida, joined @AccentCareHospicePalliativeCare · Hospice and @doric.lodge · Lodge to visit honor him with a special presentation. Our ceremony was held in the facility caring for Albert. A musician played patriotic songs, including the Navy song. We presented Albert several customized handcrafts and Certificate of Appreciation.
When we conducted a final salute, Albert returned the salute. His love for country remains strong.
June 15th
“I am humbled by this recognition.”
You did your duty, Sir, and we are here to honor you.
Family and friends joined Last Patrol volunteers in honoring Joe Davenport, a veteran in home hospice care with @MSAHospice. Joe served in Germany in the Army during the Cold War 1950s. He continued serving in the @National Guard.
We presented Joe a Congressional letter, patriotic handcrafts, and cards of gratitude from Americans around the country.
Each dying veteran in special. Learn more about helping us honor such veterans at www.veteranlastpatrol.org
June 2nd
Last Patrol joined family and friends to honor WWII veteran Clarence Tompkins for his 100th birthday.
Clarence, in the Army 4th Infantry Division, hit Utah Beach on the first wave of the D-Day invasion Jun 6th, 1944. He saw heavy combat and was later wounded in the fighting against Nazis in Belgium.
After the war, Clarence worked many years in the construction business. “He could look at a place and tell you exactly how much lumber was needed without even make measurements,” a family member told. All these years later, Clarence still carries around a picture of his sweetheart and wife (deceased). As young people, they raced motorcycles in the 1940s.
Clarence earned the Silver Star for Valor during the war. He rushed forward to clear a mine field and wire obstacles. Part of that citation reads.
“… Ran some 50 yards through a storm of fire… As he reached the barricade and prepared to destroy it, he suffered a chest wound. Although bleeding profusely and finding it difficult to remain conscious, he placed a bangalore torpedo under the wire…”
Clarence, we salute you!
May 23rd
Last Patrol volunteers honored Alice Roberts, a Navy Nurse who served during the Korean War. Alice is 98 years old, lives at @RGVillage, and is now on her Last Patrol.
She has a beautiful military romance story. During the Korea War she met her future husband, a Marine she cared for that had been wounded in combat. “It was love at first sight,” she said. They married less than a year later and raised 4 children together.
Alice grew up an honor student in New Jersey. Then went to Nursing School. “Why?” -- she was asked. “Because I love my country.”
Alice is amazing. She loves church, speaks 3 languages, and loves steak and french fries. Despite being on her Last Patrol, she still loves and cares tenderly for other memory care residents.
Alice, we salute you as you proceed on your Last Patrol.
May 7th
“We came to honor you, Sir.”
Wayne Modny served as an Army Artilleryman during the mid-1950s, as the Korean War was winding down. Today he is in hospice care with @PruittHealth and on his Last Patrol.
Our volunteers visited Wayne and expressed our gratitude for his service to our nation.
After the military, Wayne attended college, married and raised a family. He worked for the East Ohio Gas company in customer relations. For a time, he also worked as a consultant with the National Football League and coached the Dickson College Hockey team. A favorite picture is one of Wayne in prayer before a Priest during a military field training exercise.
Our emotional ceremony put patriotism in the hearts of everyone attending.
Apr. 23rd
“Your country is forever grateful, Jerry.”
Last Patrol volunteers honored Jerry Vaughn, a 1st Infantry Division “Big Red One” Vietnam veteran. Jerry is now in hospice care with @Patriot Hospice. He was born in 1948 and served in the Army from Mar 1968 – 1971.
After military service, Jerry worked in parts and ball-bearing manufacturing for 40 years. He didn’t have children but was a good friend of the youth, loyally volunteering for his local elementary school system, helping management with various tasks that needed getting done. He was a big NASCAR fan and loved watching big racing events on TV. Jerry has 3 sisters and 2 brother. One sister is his caregiver.
We salute you, Jerry, as you proceed on your Last Patrol.
Apr. 11th
“Proud to have served in the Big Red One!”
Jimmie Babb served in the storied 1st Infantry Division, the “Big Red One.” He was an Army artilleryman in the 1950s. Today Jimmie is on his Last Patrol and in hospice care with @Providence Care.
Our volunteers and family recently gathered to honor Jimmie for his service to our country. He was presented several patriotic gifts and a Congressional Letter. After his military service, he worked in the Textile Industry and eventually became a specialist in sprinkler systems. He wants everyone to know that he’s very proud of his family and grateful for our team that honored him.
We salute you, Sir, as you proceed on your Last Patrol.
Mar. 22nd
“He still salutes during the National Anthem.”
Family and our Last Patrol volunteers gathered recently to honor Thomas Carnes, a Marine veteran in hospice care with Agape Care Group. Carnes, confined to his bed and nearing his final hour, acknowledged our ceremony with the grace and courage expected of a Marine. With a very weak voice, he thanked us.
Thomas was read a Congressional Letter from Rep Ralph Norman and presented with a Patriot’s quilt and other gifts.
As the National Anthem was played in his room during our ceremony, Thomas saluted together with the other gathered veterans.
Mar. 10th
“You could see how happy he was.”
Del Pieper served as an Air Force pilot in Vietnam, flying C141s. Today, Del is in hospice care with MSA Healthcare and lives in Clemson SC at Dominion Senior Living at Patrick Square
Seeing joy on a dying veterans face is one of our goals in honoring them. Family, friends, and Last Patrol volunteers gathered to recognize Del for his service to our country. Everyone who attended was impressed by the happiness, comradery, and respect that filled the room. Special thanks to the comfort dog Kare 9 Seth for attending our event.
You have our highest gratitude, Del Pieper, as you proceed on your Last Patrol.
Feb. 21st
“I was so happy he was my man,” said Mrs. Wise, as Last Patrol volunteers honored her husband, Jack Wise. They were married an incredible 79 years.
Jack is in hospice care with @AmedisysHospiceGreenvilleSC · Hospice. He served in the Army Air Corp during World War II. Volunteers presented Jack and his family several gifts to celebrate his service to our country.
Jack grew up in the Midwest. Later in life he served as an Associate Professor of Agriculture at the University of Nevada. The Wise’s also did missionary work in Africa.
Feb. 15
“Sail on, brave sailor.”
Last Patrol volunteers in Charleston, SC, rallied to honor Navy Command Master Chief Roy Robertson, who is in hospice care with @agapecaregroup · Hospice.
Roy was a submariner and served multiple tours in Vietnam. He is married with children.
During our Honor Ceremony emotions ran strong. Certificates, quilts, and other items of special recognition, including a Congressional Letter from @Congresswoman Nancy Mace were presented to Roy. The participants came away from the ceremony with a renewed understanding of the important of national service.
We salute you, Roy, as you proceed on your last patrol.
Jan. 31st
Vietnam Veteran Tom Hovland has passed. We render him a final salute!
Tom was a classic warrior. A nature leader; a patriot; a teacher; he missed no opportunity to motivate and share wise counsel. Our volunteers remember how he inspired us all during his recent hospice Honor Ceremony.
About a close friend and brother-in-arms who was to die in Vietnam, Tom had written this: "Recalling his courage has sustained me at many critical times in my life... I don’t believe he realized the magnitude of the gift he gave me in overcoming fear, accepting grief, knowing the importance of faith, sharing sorrow, living compassionately and finding joy in my life."
We think the same of you, Tom Hovland. We are grateful to Patriot Hospice for partnering with us to honor him one more time.
Jan. 10th
Last Patrol volunteers in Upstate, South Carolina, honored 4 very special World War II veterans. Each man was presented a custom-build frame containing their military Unit Medals.
Two of the veterans, Marines, Stan and Walter fought on Iwo Jima. Bob, a Navy Seabee (pictured in uniform) helped repair and build landing strips on Okinawa. And George, an Army Soldier, fought the Nazis in the Europe.
Such special men! We are so pleased to be able to befriend, honor, and support them.
Want to help? Contact us at www.veteranlastpatrol.org to learn how you can honor such veterans in your hometown.
Dec. 23rd
We’re very pleased with our Operation Holiday Salute this year! This year --- the 3rd year we’ve done this --- our goal was raising 50,000 personalized Christmas and Holiday cards for veterans in hospice care. Wonderful cards were sent to us from all over the country. Young and old participated, and we are very grateful to all who helped.
This campaign allowed us to send packets of multiple cards to nearly 7,000 veterans on their Last Patrol around the country.
Here are few pictures of veterans receiving the JOY!
Dec. 9th
“While I was in Vietnam, I sent a letter home to my girlfriend asking her to marry me. Nancy sent me a letter back and said “yes.” – Frank Cates said.
That’s one of many stories Frank, an Army Military Police veteran on his Last Patrol, shared with our volunteers doing his Honor Ceremony. Frank received a beautiful Last Patrol quilt, presented by Carol Scales of MOAA - Star Fort Chapter, a letter from Congress, and a packet of cards of gratitude from citizens around the country. He’s now in hospice with @ProvidenceCares.
Frank also wrote Nancy a poem from Vietnam, one line of which reads:
“I asked the Heaven of Stars above, what should I give my love.”
He will be reuniting with Nancy in Post Everlasting. Frank has a son and daughter, and multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We thank all those who helped us visit and honor Frank Cates.
Nov. 25th
“We are so proud of his service and so grateful to you,” a family member told us. James Grant – we, too – are so proud of and grateful for you.
James served his country as a Radio Technician in the United States Marine Corps during the early 1950s. James is now in hospice care on this Last Patrol. Hospice of the Piedmont contacted our team and requested an honor ceremony for him. Volunteers recently conducted the ceremony and thanked James a final time for his service to our great nation.
Along with a Patriot’s quilt and cards written by Americans around the country, James was presented a Congressional Letter from Congressman Jeff Duncan
Nov. 5th
“Thank you for your service.”
Our volunteers were privileged to honor Air Force veteran, Larry Fowler, who is in hospice care with Pruitt Health and lives at Ashlan Village. Larry’s special work in the 1950s as a mechanic for the Air Force assigned him to some of the coldest places on the earth, including a Greenland radar installation.
After military service, Larry returned to work with his dad and brother somewhere much warmer: a Carolina peach farm where he had grown up. In the off-season, he worked as a car mechanic.
Today, Larry is most proud of his 3 children, 9 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.
Oct. 18th
“So grateful that you honored him.”
Last Patrol volunteers conducted an honor ceremony for Clyde Rainwater, an Army veteran of all major 2nd half of the 20th century conflicts. Clyde is in hospice care with @BonSecoursHealthSystem · Hospital
Clyde served during the occupation of Japan, and in the Korean and Vietnam War. He served as a combat medic. He took part in the great Inchon Korea landings to push back the North Korean Communist invaders.
We joined Clyde’s large family in honoring him. How proud of their father they are! Near the end of our ceremony, when attending veterans individually salute the veteran in hospice, three of Clyde’s sons all came forward and saluted their father. One of Clyde’s uniforms with his military decorations was on display.
After military service, Clyde cut hair in Greenville County for 3 decades. Taking care of people was a motivation all his life.
In addition to other patriotic gifts or recognition, Clyde received a Congressional letter from @Rep. William Timmons
Oct. 8th
“What a brotherhood veterans have.”
Last Patrol volunteers joined family and Vets Helping Vets. Anderson to honor Billy Konrad, a Marine Vietnam veteran in home hospice care.
Billy believed in lifelong service. He was one of the founding members of the Anderson chapter of Vets Helping Vets. “A go-to guy to get things done,” was how one friend described him. His loving wife, Bonnie, stood by Billy during our ceremony as one veteran after another entered the house and visited him bedside. Billy received a Last Patrol Patriot’s Quilt, Certificate of Appreciation, cards of gratitude from Americans around the country, and other special gifts.
Sadly, the day following our honor ceremony Billy transitioned to Post Everlasting and is now reunited in a better place with family and old buddies. We salute you, brother.
Sep. 23rd
“You help me remember those big events from a long time ago.”
That’s how Roy Johnson described the Last Patrol honor ceremony conducted for him this past week. Roy served in the Army as part of the post-WWII Japan Occupation Forces and is now in hospice care with @Providence Cares. He was responsible for keeping the electricity going for US Forces communication. “If that equipment would have failed, GEN MacArthur would have murdered me,” Roy joked.
Sadly, Roy’s wife of many years, Mary Johnson, passed away 2 months ago. Unfailingly loyal, he visits her gravesite weekly.
After his military service, Roy became a Winn-Dixie supervisor for 40+ years, and also became a Mason for 50+ years. He’s a huge @clemsonuniv fan.
Stay strong on your Last Patrol, Roy
Sep. 12th
“She was a very special lady.”
Volunteers, friends, and family honored Katherine, an Army Gulf War Nurse, in hospice care in Wilmington, NC.
Katherine fought the good fight until the end. The honor ceremony took place just one day prior to her passing. In her final days, a young Army Officer visited in uniform and expressed his love and gratitude. The family placed our Patriot’s Quilt on Katherine. Then --- after she had moved on to Post Everlasting – the family placed several special gifts and the many cards friends of Last Patrol wrote to Katherine on top of her quilt-covered bed for this final picture.
Aug 15th
Volunteers came out to honor Roy Dantzler, an Army veteran from Union, South Carolina. Roy is in hospice care with @AgapeCares and therefore is now on his Last Patrol. Roy served the Army as a Supply Sergeant. After military service he became an Automotive mechanic.
Roy’s daughter and son -- who currently serves in the National Guard – along with Roy’s longtime caregiver were present for the ceremony. The loyalty and bond between veterans was very evident to all.
Roy received special presentations celebrating his service to the country. Honors were read to him. A Patriot’s Quilt was presented and wrapped around his shoulders. The ceremony concluded with taps, the benediction, and a final salute. Your country thanks you, Roy!
Aug 3rd
Last Patrol volunteers conducted an emergency honor ceremony for World War II veteran, Williams Adams. Mr. Adams entered the Army in 1944 and served in Europe during the fight against Germany. He was awarded the Bronze Star.
Mr Adams is in hospice under the care of @HospicePiedmont
The solemn dignity of this honor ceremony helped Mr. Adams transition peacefully and reminded his family and those attending of the commitment veterans have to their brothers on a Last Patrol.
July 26th
A paratrooper on his last days remembers jump commands!
Last Patrol volunteers gathered to honor Bobby Prater, a veteran fighting terminal cancer. A veteran friend called us asking to accelerate and honor ceremony for Bobby, a Vietnam veteran and paratrooper with over 150 jumps. More than 30 veterans and guests came to Bobby’s home to help us celebrate his service to America. Bobby recently served as co-director of the American Legion Military Museum.
Our ceremony honored him with music, patriotic gifts, and a Congressional Letter.
One of our volunteers, during our flag presentation, shouted the storied jump commands paratroopers hear as they ready to jump from aircraft with their parachutes. Bobby’s closed his eyes and quietly voiced the words in unison.
At the ceremony’s end, Bobby joined his fellow veterans in a final salute.
July 15th
“He’s a very respected man.”
That was the opinion of the large crowd attending John Wilkens Jr Veteran’s Last Patrol honor ceremony. John, a WWII Navy veteran, is in hospice was with Halcyon Hospice.
The appreciation shown John by attending veterans, family, and friends was a beautiful thing to see. There was standing room only. Hugs, salutes, and words of gratitude filled the room has John received his honors, gifts, and a special US flag provided by Congressman William Timmons that had been flown over the United States Capitol.
July 2nd
“Let’s care for them until the end.”
Last Patrol volunteer and retired Fighter Pilot, Tom Lytle, visits veterans in hospice in Moncks Corner, SC. Tom flew jets for the Air Force, the Navy, and the National Guard, a very rare achievement.
In these pictures, he visits two veterans on their last patrol. One veteran also served in multiple branches of service, and the other is a veteran of the National Guard. It was quite a moving moment when after saluting him,
Tom attached a veteran pin to the dying veteran’s shirt. It’s so rewarding bring a final word of gratitude to a veteran in end-of-life care.
One photo is of Tom a few years back showing off a picture of one of his favorite plans, the A10 Warthog. What a patriot!!
June 30th
“We so appreciate this honor,” is how a family member recalled our ceremony for his father.
Veterans Dan Grubbs and Darius James joined family members of James Hill, an Air Force veteran in hospice care with @HospicePiedmont in Greenwood, SC
Mr. Hill was presented a Certificate of Appreciation, a packet of cards of gratitude written by Americans around the country, and a Patriot’s Quilt.
A few days after this honor ceremony, James Hill transitioned to Post Everlasting. At his funeral, James lay in his casket with his Patriot’s Quilt under his hands.
June 18th
“We salute you!”
James Lawrence, U.S. Air Force veteran from 1962-1966, is in end-of-life care at @HospicePiedmont. Family, friends, facility staff, and Last Patrol veteran volunteers gathered to honor James. He received special gifts, certificates, and honors, while being entertained with beautiful vocals and a trumpeter. He also received a packet of personal cards thanking him, The amazing cards are written by Americans around the country.
Throughout the event, James was actively involved, and deeply appreciated his fellow citizens turning out one more time to honor his service to our country.
James, we all wish you peace and strength on your Last Patrol and are standing by to help you.
June 9th
“A final wish to go fishing…”
Last Patrol volunteers and friends made it happen. Robert, a Navy vet in hospice with @AgapeCare, is a passionate trout fisherman. Knowing the end is near, he’d asked: “Can I get out on a river one more time to fish?” So our volunteers put a plan in place to make his wish possible. There’s something about the river, the fish, the air, the water… Robert had been drawn to it most of his long life. Twice we tried… but Robert’s health faltered; the trip got cancelled. But patience paid off, and this past week it all came together.
During the fishing trip, Robert’s eyes regularly sought out his wife, Sandy. The two have been married for 53 years!
We salute you, Robert!
Many thanks to everyone that helped make this fishing trip possible! Special thanks to @DavidsonRiverOutfitters
June 6th
“Three WWII veterans together is a very rare thing!”
It was our distinct honor recently to join @TheClintonPresbyterianCommunity · Retirement & Assisted Living Facility in celebrating the service of 3 World War II veterans. Representing the Army, Marines, and Navy, these 3 WWII veterans -- Carl, George, and Bill -- received special recognition from Last Patrol in a gathering held in the facility chapel. And what service!! The Soldier helped liberate the Dachau concentration camp. The Marine participated in seizing an airfield during the fight for Okinawa. The Sailor searched for Japanese submarines. Last Patrol volunteers conducted a formal ceremony, patriotic entertainment, and voiced the gratitude of nation for these members of The Greatest Generation. The veterans received letters from @RepJeffDuncan, who recognized the important contribution of each man.
Carl, the Soldier, was a tanker in the 20th Armored Division. He fought in Germany and France. Later in life he started an Insurance business and was an avid snow skier until the age of 73. George, the Marine, participated in several Pacific fighting campaigns, and was preparing for the invasion of Japan with the Japanese surrendered. George is very proud of his 67 year marriage. Bill served in Naval Air, including an assignment in the Philippines during the war. Back in the civilian world he became a pharmacist.
We thank each of these very special veterans for their service. We owe our freedom to men like these and their fellow brothers-in-arms who fought for our country during WWII.
May 27th
A very special veteran celebration in Florida!
Last Patrol volunteers honored Navy veteran, Jacob Zemon, who is in hospice care with @SeasonsHospicePalliativeCare. Simultaneously we celebrated a remarkable 60th Wedding Anniversary. Jacob met his wife on a blind date all those many years ago. Their 2 children and other family and friends also attended the honor ceremony. All remembered Jacob as a hardworking, wonderful man, who was well-equipped with colorful military stories which he didn’t shy from telling. We salute you, Jacob!
Special thanks to two local groups for their support: @ASHLARS - Widows Sons of Florida @26th Masonic District Masters and Wardens
Jacob served aboard a Navy Aircraft Carrier in the early 1960s. He became a master card player and fabulous dancer. During our honor ceremony favorite dance tunes were played. As a young man, Jacob was a quality athlete, and competed at high levels in Tennis and Basketball. Eventually settling in South Florida, he later served his local community as a Bailiff.
May 25th
“Amazed by the fierce loyalty U.S. military veterans have….”
@brookdaleseniorliving veterans were honored by Veteran’s Last Patrol. The military service of their veteran residents was celebrated by veteran volunteers and @AmedisysInc in a ceremony that included Certificates of Appreciation and small patriotic handcrafts. Greenville South Carolina’s. @militaryhistorycc helped with this special event by displaying a restored military vehicle.
We thank Photographer @Ken Scar for taking great photographs. “I'm continually amazed by the fierce loyalty U.S. military veterans have for other veterans, and how naturally it reaches across generations, services and wars,” Ken remarked about the day’s event.
May 12th
Robert Houk, Navy Vietnam Veteran, receives an honor ceremony by Veteran Last Patrol volunteers. We celebrated Robert’s life and service with family, friends, and fellow volunteers. Robert served on the battleship USS New Jersey. That big ship provided vital gunnery support for Soldiers and Marines in ground combat. He is now on his Last Patrol and in hospice care with Agape Care Group.
After the service, Robert became a small businessman, serving his Western North Carolina community. He and his wife lived in the same house for 43 years. Robert is a passionate trout fisher. When he wasn’t working or spending time with family you would find him on a mountain river with a fishing rod in hand.
May 11th
“He’s served our country, and for this organization Veteran Last Patrol to take the time to recognize him says a lot of good about where we are as a nation, in spite of anything else we might see,” James said.
April 26th
Our volunteers, local veterans, and citizens of Greenwood, SC, gathered to honor Frank Glenn, a Navy WWII veteran in hospice care with @PruittHealth. Frank served as an Aviation Technician during the war and made sure the Navy’s planes could fly. We’re all so grateful he and his fellow WWII veterans defeated the Nazi and Japanese tyrannies. During the ceremony, Frank received a handmade flag, patriotic quilt, and a Congressional Letter from @RefJeffDuncan The ceremony took place @Brookdale Senior Living. We are so impressed with the great turnout to celebrate Frank’s service. Our purpose was to remind him he’s not alone on his Last Patrol. We love seeing veterans in hospice render a final salute!
April 19th
Fred Whisnant served his country as a US Army Medic during the Korean War. He is very proud of his service. Last Patrol volunteers visited Fred’s home and conducted an Honor Ceremony, during which he was recognized with several presentations, including a Congressional Letter from @RepRalphNorman. Fred is in the care of @Halycon Hospice.
Our mission is bringing friendships, honor ceremonies, and emergency assistance to veterans in hospice care. We want these dying veterans to know they are not forgotten. Fred is being visited weekly by one of our veteran volunteers.
