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Area organizations collaborate to celebrate a local veteran  

DEXTER — Many everyday social interactions have come to a halt due to COVID-19 limitations, especially for those who receive care in residential facilities. One of those limitations included the Hero Pinning Ceremony, a program of CHCS New Hope Hospice. However, times like these call for creative solutions which take initiative, cooperation, and teamwork. Three organizations recently were able to successfully achieve just that. Dexter Healthcare, CHCS New Hope Hospice and Pine Tree Hospice staff joined in the effort to find a way to offer an outdoor Hero Pinning Ceremony recognizing a World War II Marine veteran.

 

On July 28, 97-year-old Thane “Dusty” Clifford was presented a pin, certificate and patriotic quilt to honor his sacrifice and service as a United States Marine. He was deployed to the islands of the Pacific Theater during World War II including Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Clifford was wounded during the Battle of Surgarloaf on the island of Okinawa. Present for this occasion were his children Sue Corbett and Ron Clifford.

 

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Clifford turned toward the Dexter Healthcare front door carrying the folded quilt on his walker, just as Lt. Commander Gary L Burke, 82, a United States Navy veteran, offered one more salute. In that moment, two veterans stood tall and proud as fellow patriots.

 

CHCS New Hope Hospice prioritizes veteran recognition through their Hero Pinning Ceremony. Ceremonies are individualized in recognition of their service and commitment to our great nation. A member of the armed services presents each veteran with a military flag pin, a certificate and a hand-crafted lap blanket. Family and friends are invited and encouraged to attend this memorable event. Clifford’s ceremony had been put on hold due to the pandemic but staff from all three organizations worked together to problem solve and organize a beautiful ceremony.

 

For information regarding CHCS New Hope Hospice, contact Christii Maquillan at 207-922-4571.

 

If you know of a veteran who needs companionship or support due to a life-limiting condition, Pine Tree Hospice is a local, non-profit volunteer organization serving 39 communities including all of Piscataquis County.

 

For information regarding Pine Tree Hospice, contact Cheryl Crabtree, coordinator of volunteers & client services, at 207-564-4344.

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