2025 Veterans Day Celebrations at St. John’s
St. John’s honored residents and employees who served in the U.S. Military with special celebrations at each campus on Veterans Day. As an annual tradition each November, St. John’s creates special celebrations to honor the men and women living and working at St. John’s communities who served in the United States Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, Peace Corps, and any other branch of service.
In the Wintergarden, a special luncheon honored veterans who live and work at St. John’s Meadows and Brickstone by St. John’s. St. John’s Spiritual Life Partner and U.S. Navy Veteran Patrick Crumity led a prayer of gratitude for those who have served and to honor their sacrifice. Over 60 residents attended the luncheon to be celebrated for their service. Following lunch, attendees learned about Honor Flight Rochester from representatives and guest speakers Steve Wendell and Morrey Goldman. Honor Flight is a non-profit organization that flies veterans to Washington, D.C. so they can visit the memorials of the respective wars in which they served. Recently, three St. John’s residents flew with Honor Flight.
One of the honorees at the luncheon was Mason Fitch, a resident at St. John’s Meadows. Fitch is 100 years old and served in the Army Air Forces, flying over 30 missions. He told local news outlets that he “is happy to share stories today with fellow veterans.” Fitch was joined by his wife of 76 years, Ginn, whom he thoughtfully said is a major reason why he is “still around” for another Veterans Day.
At St. John’s Home, 30 residents were honored for their service. The special program included live music, a pinning of the veterans by St. John’s Therapeutic Recreation Department Staff, presentation of a wreath, and the observance of soldiers missing in action. Attendees ended the ceremony with a patriotic sing-along.
Each year, these Veterans Day ceremonies serve as examples of how St. John’s comes together to stage meaningful, memorable events for the residents we serve.
Photo Gallery from 13 WHAM: Veterans Day celebrations in the Rochester area
Photos from the luncheon at Brickstone by St. John’s can be viewed here.
Photos from the celebration at St. John’s Home can be viewed here.
