Home of the Brave Photos

New Mexico – Albuquerque VA

“The patients we visited were very happy and appreciative of the gifts and the interactions we had. They would tell our group thank you for this event multiple times and stated it is something very special for them. We tried to express our gratitude for them and their service to our country reminding them that we are the ones who need to thank them for everything they have done for us.”

– Stefanie Bolivar-Mann, Navy Federal Credit Union

New York – Albany VA

“On Friday, November 9, 2024, the Military Family Foundation, Albany County Veteran Services Bureau, and Soldiers’ Angels came together to host a heartwarming “Give Back, Thank You” event for military service members at the Albany VA Stratton. This special gathering took place at 1 PM and focused on expressing gratitude and support for our courageous service members.

The event was held on the ninth floor in the inpatient ward, where we had the honor of interacting with the veterans. It was a meaningful opportunity to connect with those who have selflessly served our country, fostering a sense of community and appreciation. As a token of our gratitude, we distributed thank-you bags filled with thoughtful items: T-shirts, hats, notebooks and pens, squish balls, coolers, bags, and challenge coins. These gifts were not just items; they represented our recognition of their sacrifices and our desire to uplift their spirits.

The atmosphere was filled with positivity, and everyone in attendance was in good health and high spirits, which truly enriched the experience. The VA staff expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the event, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in boosting morale among service members.

This event, hosted by Soldiers’ Angels, has laid the foundation for a meaningful tradition. We are excited to continue this initiative every Veterans Day, ensuring that our military service members feel valued and supported for many years to come. Together, we can build a stronger community that honors and respects the sacrifices made by our veterans.”

– Albany County Veteran Service

North Carolina – Asheville VA

“Sharing hat, cinch sacks and hygiene kits.”

– Jennifer Price

West Virginia – Beckley VA

“We had multiple events all week from 11/4-11/8/2024. We passed out Nuts on Monday that said We are Nuts about you at Soldiers Angels. Visited Patients in the hospital and also Hallway visits on 11/7/2024. We held a luncheon for the Veterans in the Hallway and visited with Veterans. We also attended a Veterans Appreciation dinner at the local Armoury on 11/8/2024 we passed out Air Fresheners with a catching saying at the Local Vet Table Food Bank Distribution. I tried to reach the veterans in our area, in multiple venues to show them how much we appreciated them”

– Jacquelyn Goike-Wright

Idaho – Boise VA

“This picture represents several different Bristol Myers Squibb business units. We were also fortunate to have Ron Tafuri, a retired Navy vet join us. He is the proud papa of Jennifer Moore, a Cardiovascular rep with BMS from Boise, Idaho.
We spent a few hours at the Boise, VA, passing out goodie bags and visiting with vets. We also spent time with the staff as well, and everyone was happy to see us and grateful for our time and for our donations.”

– Jody Carkhuff, BMS

South Carolina – Charleston VA

“My colleagues from Navy Federal volunteered to hand out snacks, donuts, coffee and juice to Veterans coming and going from the Downtown VA in Charleston, SC. Many of the members of our credit union are veterans and were excited to see us there passing out the snacks. We also went around to the inpatients rooms to hand out t-shirts, hats, and hygiene bags for the veterans.”

– Navy Federal Credit Union

Virginia – Hampton VA

“There were 2 events, 11/7 and 11/11. The 1st was an outdoor ceremony with children’s group singing patriotic songs, the honor guard presenting the flag and an impactful keynote speaker.
The2nd event was a luncheon with fun games.”

– Gina Antretter, Bristol Myers Squib

Colorado – Denver / Aurora VA

“The LinQuest volunteer team met Veterans at the Rocky Mountain Veterans center to thank them for their service. The team visited the in-patient wing as well as the ICU, Behavioral Health and Spinal Cord Injury units. The Veterans received tokens of appreciation in the form of hats and healthy treats and snacks. The team was welcomed by each unit’s staff with smiles and gratitude for the visit. We met amazing nurses and staff who care for our Veterans with dignity, respect and thoughtfulness. It was a wonderful way to thank our Veterans for their service as well as thank all of their caregivers.”

– Kristine Hines, LinQuest

Maryland – Baltimore VA

“I am going to save your Home of the Brave sign for my wall. Every time I see it, I will be reminded of your kindness”.

– Edwin (Vietnam, VA Volunteer)

Texas – Bonham VA

“The Chief of our mental health domiciliary inpatient program has reached out this morning to say what a hit the fruit and sweets are to their Veterans.”

– Fernando Armendariz, Navy Federal Credit Union

Massachusetts – Salem VA

“I enjoyed my time interacting with patients as they would pass us in the lobby and giving them donuts and coffee. They really appreciated everything. What I found the most interesting was when we would thank them for their service, they would always deflect and downplay their own contributions and thank us for being there for the other veterans. They are a very humble group of people.” – Eric Plogger, BMS employee

“Thank you for including me in this incredible opportunity. One of the most memorable moments for me was hand-delivering bags to patient rooms. One gentleman’s face lit up like it was Christmas morning, and seeing that joy truly melted my heart. I encountered many people from all walks of life, and it was clear that no one chooses to be in a clinic or hospital setting. When we set up in the atrium, the wave of men and women who have bravely served our country were met with smiles, small gifts, and warm, fresh donuts. It was an honor to be part of this day, and I will cherish those smiles and stories forever.” – Brittany Schranck, BMS employee

“Everyone seemed appreciative of the goodie bags and snacks. One gentleman we saw in his hospital room was just happy to have people to talk with. I think he would have chatted all day if we had stayed. He was all smiles and shared advice and funny stories. Another gentleman stopped by our table several times, for more doughnuts but also, I think just to talk. Thank you for organizing this event!” – Susie Light, BMS employee

“I was so humbled to meet one particular veteran and his family. He served in WWII and was part of the invasion at Normandy! He was 101 years old. So blessed to be able to thank him for his service!”

– Melissa Lankford, BMS employee

Utah – Salt Lake City VA

“The event was held on 11/13/2024 at the Salt Lake City VA. There were about 20 volunteers; vets, physicians, employees, etc…We met and stuffed goodie bags for the veterans which included donations from the Home of the brave initiative. We met patients throughout the facility and handed out the bags. Everyone was so appreciative, and even the staff were happy to see us.”

– Jody Carkhuff

Texas – Houston VA

“On November 1, 2024, Navy Federal Credit Union team members from our Houston-area branches volunteered at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center for the Soldier’s Angels Home of the Brave event, sponsored by Navy Federal alongside other local companies to honor veterans. The Sugarland Branch Manager Jamila Bell served as the site coordinator, helping to organize activities throughout the day. Navy Federal volunteers welcomed veterans arriving at the hospital with coffee and doughnuts and visited inpatient residents to gift them hygiene kits. Volunteers also joined a few veterans for bingo games, bringing the event’s spirit to those unable to attend the morning activities. Both the veterans and hospital staff were very appreciative of the support and kindness shown by the volunteers.”

– Jamila Bell, NFCU

Arizona – Phoenix VA

“All of the photos are of volunteers only no VA staff or Veterans. At this event we were not able to interact with the veterans due to restrictions at the facility as share by the volunteer services staff.”

– Chris Lord

Massachusetts – Boston VA

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Ohio – Marion VA

“The veterans and caregivers loved the swag–t-shirts, hats, etc.–and especially our recognition of their service.”

– Martha Clendenin

Rhode Island – Providence VA

“Ashley and Neftaly “Nefty” served 12 dozen donuts and served countless cups of coffee to our Veterans at the Rhode Island VA Medical Center, in appreciation for their service.”

– Ashley Carreiro, Navy Federal Credit Union

California – San Diego VA

“Our volunteer team had an incredible experience participating in the San Diego-VA HOB celebration event. It’s been an amazing partnership with the Soldier’s Angels coordinators & the SD-VA administrators in keeping the entire process seamless. This was a fantastic opportunity to express our gratitude to the Veterans for serving our country as we handed out coffee, pastries, goody bags & t-shirts. Seeing the appreciation in their eyes as they smiled ear-to-ear with joy was heartwarming and very rewarding! Many of our volunteers have participated for several years and are looking forward to celebrating again next year!!”

– Suzette Rees, BSM

Arizona – Tucson VA

Michigan – Iron Mountain VA

“We went to the Iron Mountain VA CLC. 40 residents played trivia, and we talked about their service. We visited for approx. 90 minutes. And going room to room, to be sure we connected with each Veteran. We brought Cider and donuts, which was a big hit.”

– Pamela Basal

Pennsylvania – Philadelphia VA

“Volunteers were split into groups to lead bingo activities and visit VA patients in the Community Living Center and Main Medical Center. Patients received HOTB baseball caps, hygiene kits and swag bags containing items celebrating their service to the country.”

– Pamela Straeter

Florida – West Palm Beach VA

“Directly from our volunteers on Wednesday 11/13/24: From Louise Johnson: “When April Robins and I were at the CLC yesterday, many patients wanted us to spend time talking with them and that is what we did when we were giving out the T-shirts and hats. It was very rewarding, but it took up the majority of our time. We also went to hospice and spent time with the patients and families there. Sometimes it’s not easy to walk in and out drop something off and leave as many veterans do not receive visitors and they need that personal time for someone to talk with them. Some of them are very lonely and need that personal connection. I can’t just walk away from the lonely veteran and spend the time needed with them to put a smile on their face.”

From April Robins: “I am with Louise 100%! 🙂 The time spent meant a lot to them (and the family members who were there)—and we were told that constantly. I am so happy that we were able to visit with each and every veteran in both the CLC and hospice. I can’t tell you how many times we were asked when we were coming back. :)”

We added additional resources on Friday 11/15 to complete the Hats/Shirts/Snacks/Sweet Items/Candies distribution to the remaining units via different floors. Taking pride in what we do to help Veterans, benefits Veterans, ourselves, and soldiers’ Angles organization => feeling satisfied and meaningful volunteering with reward, being proud, and making differences.”

– Mai Vu

Florida – Tampa VA

“What an amazing Home of the Brave we had celebrating the Veterans at James A Haley Veterans hospital in Tampa, FL. The volunteers were able to assist many inpatient Veterans outside to watch the Veterans Day parade and thank so many Veterans for their service!”

– Ashlie Neal

California – Los Angeles VA

“We set up in the lobby of the hospital and handed out donuts and coffee to over 300 patients as they entered the hospital. Some came from their rooms as well. After 2 hours we packed up and headed into the hospital to distribute cinch bags with HOB t-shirts and hygiene kits to the veterans at their bedsides.”

” You guys always bring the best stuff!” Ken, VA staff member
” It’s nice to have someone visit me. I get pretty lonely here”

– Lonnie – Army Korean War Veteran patient

Kentucky – Louisville VA

“We handed out 10 dozen donuts to veterans at the main entrance to the Louisville VA while we also packed about 120 bags with hygiene kits, hats, and thank you cards for the veterans up on the floors.”

– Jim Proffitt

Ohio – Cincinnati VA

“We are proud to be part of Bristol Myers Squibb that values and cherishes the sacrifices made by our veterans and so honored to have the opportunity to give back to those who have given so much for us. Three BMS colleagues and I teamed up with Soldiers’ Angels and distributed tshirts, baseball caps, hygiene kits, and handmade cards made by Mrs Smith’s 4th and 5th grade students at Amelia Elementary involved in their Helping Hands after school club to veterans at the Cincinnati VA to commemorate Veterans Day. It was truly an uplifting and heartwarming experience feeling the joy of connection talking to the veterans about their time in their respective branches of service, including a veteran celebrating his 100th birthday that fought in World War II. The Cincinnati Reds mascot, Mr Redlegs also made an appearance. We are looking forward to next year’s Home of the Brave event”

– Amy Lane, BMS

Maryland – Perry Point VA

“What an amazing day!! Our team started at the Outpatient portion of the Perry Point VA Hospital, thanking the patients for their service and handing out donuts. One patient (as pictured) and his service dog were able to enjoy a donut. Our team really enjoyed volunteering, and meeting so many of the nice Veterans who served our great country!”
– Gina Frizzera, BMS

“There is a lot of ugly that comes through these hospital doors, but having all of your smiling faces here to great us veterans brings a lot of brightness to those who can use a smile right now! Thank you for the time you took to volunteer to do this!!”

– Jack, Veteran and VA Staff Member

Ohio – Dayton VA

“Sandra Guthrie and Joe Bolger with Bristol Myers Squibb prepare to distribute T-shirts and ball caps to veterans at the Home of the Brave event at the Dayton, Ohio VA on Veterans Day. They visited veterans within the domicile who appreciated being visited and told how much we appreciate their service to our country. Both Sandra and Joe were humbled by this opportunity and look forward to volunteering again.”

– Joseph Bolger

Wisconsin – Milwaukee VA

“Great Home of the Brave event. Volunteers collaborated across multiple divisions of the Bristol Myers Squibb organization. We had 10 volunteers supporting our veterans on this special day of recognition. In addition to the Soldiers Angels gifts donuts, and coffee were served to 276 veterans.”

– BMS

Texas – San Antonio VA

“We had a great turnout at the San Antonio VA Home of the Brave event! Our volunteers included 3 from Soldiers’ Angels, 3 from Navy Federal Credit Union, and 9 from Power Home Remodeling. To kick things off, we started with a presenting of the colors by the University of Texas San Antonio ROTC. We then served approximately 200 veterans and family members with delicious breakfast tacos and boxed sandwich lunches, as well as Soldiers’ Angels cinch bags filled with snacks and other items. Many of the volunteers were also veterans and enjoyed visiting and sharing stories of their service with fellow veterans in attendance.”

– Cathy Miller

Texas – Temple VA

“We collaborated with Home of the Brave/Soldiers Angels for this event as well as Variety Show in the afternoon for our Domiciliary Veterans. HOB and SA passed out Soldiers Angels Gift Bags, and Home of the Brave Hats and Tee-Shirts along with a Veterans Day Pin from CDCE Staff. Home of the Brave also served donuts and coffee along with a small bag from Daughters of the American Revolution. The Variety Show consisted of artists, singers, and a comedian providing entertainment for our Veterans.”

– Reginald Hardy, Schwab

Florida – Bay Pines VA

“We had a wonderful Veterans Day Celebration on Veterans Day 2024 at Bay Pines VA in St. Petersburg, Fl. This is a 397 bed facility. The day began with a 9-10:30 am Coffee social with doughnuts, muffins, coffee and lots of patriotic swag. They loved the patriotic beads, flags, pens, cups, and swag bags, we had about 70 Veterans attend. At 10:30 am, me and Melissa (my volunteer) helped the staff push wheelchairs of Veterans who wanted to attend the official ceremony but not get there on their own. It was located in a large courtyard on the premises. At 11am the ceremony began. It was attended by about 250 Veterans and family members. We passed out flags and swag bags. It was a beautiful ceremony with a high school chorus and band, along with city leaders and Veterans, giving wonderful speeches and beautiful tributes. The ceremony ended at 12 pm. At 1:30 pm, we started the Bingo Social with an ice cream party. We had about 45 Veterans attend. We gave away more swag bags and prizes for the winner. The staff also passed out the swag bags to their in-patient Veterans. Everyone enjoyed the activities and the staff was very helpful. They appreciated the help and support on this special day.”

– Cynthia Larsen

Illinois – Chicago VA

“Jesse Brown VAMC had a great group of volunteers, an Illinois Congressman, and hospital administrators, who visited patients in their hospital room and gave them a Soldiers’ Angels cap.”

– Beth Hahn

Pennsylvania – Altoona VA

“BMS Team got together to share stories and engage with the VA Patients on Floors 5 and 6 and also spend time with Veterans getting infusions. Patients loved the hats and many put them on immediately. Of course, the cupcakes were always a welcome addition. One nurse was quoted as saying- “everyone gets a cupcake, we’ll take care of blood sugars later!”. The staff, as always, was warm, friendly and appreciative. Special Thanks to Dee Dee, AJ, Leesa and Josh for travelling to Altoona for this special day!”

– Patrick Krug, BMS

New York – Batavia VA

“At the Batavia VA Facility, Home of the Brave volunteers helped residents in wheelchairs attend the Veterans Day Ceremony, then we handed out Home of the Brave T-shirts and gift bags, served refreshments, and helped the veterans back to their rooms. It was a heartwarming ceremony with a great social event afterwards. It was wonderful to meet and visit with the Veterans.”

– Mary Ellen Tomaszewski

New York – Buffalo VA

“We held several Home of the Brave events in Buffalo. This year we:
1.) Collected donations and made 100 pillowcase bags for the Veteran Homeless Program. The bags contained a blanket, socks, hat, glove, scarf, clothing, toiletries, and candy.
2.) Set up a table at the VA hospital and handed out Home of the Brave shirts, Buffalo Bills bags, and Donuts to 250 Veterans.
3.) Visited 35 veteran patients in the hospital handing out a Home of the Brave Baseball Cap and Thank you Card.
4) Worked with the Military Officers Association of America to co-host a Buffalo Bills Football Watch Party at the hospital for 50 veterans providing pizza, snacks, soda, and Buffalo Bills themed prizes for everyone.”

– Mary Ellen Tomaszewski

Virginia – Richmond VA

North Carolina – Durham VA

“We had a coffee and donuts event for the CLC veterans (long term care) which we also gave cinch bags with goodies, a cap or shirt .. we had 18 veterans able to attend the event. After the event , Stefani, myself and Brenda were able to go to the 6th and 7th floors for patient visits, handing out cinch bags to veterans there, and we were able to visit with about 45 veterans, who were very happy to see us and receive the gifts. Later in the day at 1400 I was able to provide a pizza party to the veterans in the psychiatric ward, but due to HIPPA compliance .. no photos with patients are allowed. The veterans here will receive a cinch bag upon discharge from the hospital”

– Chad Hord

Tennessee – Memphis VA

“We really appreciate what you all do to show us thanks for serving!”

South Carolina – Columbia VA

“We were able to set up inside this year and catch Veteran’s entering the hospital and great them with a smile! They were all so lovely and gracious for their hats, coffee and donuts. It’s always a pleasure to serve our veterans and add a little smile to their faces!”

– Heather Woo, BMS

North Carolina – Wilmington VA

“Navy Federal Credit Union team members from the El Paso area joined forces with Soldiers Angels to participate in this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony at the El Paso VA Medical Center by providing fresh goodies to the brave men and woman how have served in the Armed Forces. Team members, Elizabeth Valenzuela, Ana Zuniga, Ricardo Chaffino, Deisi Ferreria, Heather Coleman, and Naomi Chaffino took part in serving the ceremony guest cupcakes, yogurt, and fresh fruit.”

– Deisi Ferreria, Navy Federal Credit Union

New Jersey- Lyons VA

“When I was there and bringing in some of the snacks and stuff for the event one of the veterans came up to me and shook my hand and said “We really appreciate that you are doing this.” That was touching for him to thank me when we were there to thank them.”

– Steve Szajko, BMS

North Dakota – Fargo VA

“Our team got together in October to hand write thank you notes on the postcards we were given by Home of the Brave. That is the first team photo. The second photo is the five of us volunteering at the home of the brave event in Fargo, North Dakota. We did inpatient visits and handed out the items and then had a cookie stand giving out thank you cards and cinch bags at the entrance of the VA. Many wonderful conversations were had and the veterans really appreciated the items and our visit! Thank you so much for sponsoring this every year!”

– Tami Mueller, BMS

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Alabama – Tuscaloosa VA

“I wasn’t having a good day today and walked by the gym and saw the banners and the party going on and I decided to walk in. I’m so glad I did because y’all made it a good day for me, thank you.”

“Fantastic turnout for the Veterans Day Kick Off at the Tuscaloosa VA. We gave away the T-shirts and Hats to the residents. We also gave out the filled cinch bags and hygiene kits. We had an official cake cutting ceremony and gave out cake along with cupcakes, popcorn and snacks. We had a football throwing contest, played competitive corn hole and veterans displayed their skill on the putting green. The highlight of the day was the Famous Cake Walk where residents dance and walk for boxes of Little Debbie sweets. The resident love this because they are able to take these treats back to their rooms because they are packaged. It was a gorgeous day. Lots of cheering, singing and lots a laughter. I like to think we shared a tremendous amount of joy and gratitude to the Tuscaloosa VA on that day!”

– Kimberly Mitchell

California – Sacramento VA

“I know have a completely inspired view of the Veterans I see in my community!”

– BMS Employee:

Florida – Gainesville VA

Veterans Day Celebration Home of the Brave Volunteer Event Team at the Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center (Gainesville, FL) on 11/8/24.

– Volunteers are from Bristol Meyers Squibb.

Tennessee – Nashville VA

“This was our teams first year volunteering and it was a wonderful time. We passed out donuts to the veterans while engaging in conversation and learning about their past times. We also put together cinch bags with hats and hygiene kits and then were able to deliver them to the patients in the hospital. We are so grateful for the opportunity and hope to recruit additional volunteers in the future.”

– Victoria Spry, BMS

Missouri – St. Louis VA

“The group met, stuffed the bags to hand out to the Veterans. We served drinks, desserts and helped the patients come into the gymnasium for a lunchtime event that included an entire band of harmonicas!”

– Chrissy Jolley

Indiana – Indianapolis VA

“The first picture of the big group is all of us at the Indy VA providing donuts and coffee to local veterans and their caregivers. The vets were incredibly appreciative of the sweet treat to kick of their day. The second picture is of Sara Morgan, Rachel Fong and Asher Fong (6) dropping off our large donation to stock the pantry at the Dr. Otis Bowen Veterans House. The Veterans House offers a safe, comfortable and homelike environment for Veterans receiving extended outpatient medical care and for family members of hospitalized Veteran patients.”

– Rachel Fong, BMS

Texas – Dallas VA

“The Dallas VA held a parade, and a car show for the CLC. There are photos of the vehicles, patients and of the ceremony and parade.”

– Thomas Straley

Georgia – Augusta VA

“Seven soldiers from the 706th MI Group, the Deputy VA Representative, and myself assembled at 10:00 on Veteran’s Day to provide a superb Home of the Brave celebration to all of the in-patients at both VA hospital sites of the Charlie Norwood VAMC in Augusta, GA. The Deputy VA Rep, Donny DeAmicis and I had already conducted a recon of all the various wards (11 total wards), introduced ourselves to the Charge Nurses and determined total patients in each ward. With HOB t-shirts organized by size, cinch bags, hygiene kits and thank you cards we had coordinated from a local elementary school we moved from one ward to the next. We were able to visit each patient in their rooms, with the exception of any patients with airborne diseases or contact precautions. We had coordinated with the Charge Nurses for those rooms and provided them with the HOB goodies for those rooms. The effect of the young soldiers in uniform on the many patients truly brightened their day, and often it was difficult to get the Veterans to stop talking and expressing their gratitude. Particularly touching were the encounters in the Spinal Cord Injury Unit and the Blind Rehab unit. The nurses stated that these patients do not often get visitors since they come from all around the U.S. to this facility. Of course, equally rewarding was seeing the soldiers interact with the patients. At first unsure what to do, or say… within 2-3 visits they were so overwhelmed by the Veterans interaction that they became caring ambassadors spreading the joy of the HOB event to each person. We didn’t rush the experience at all and what we figured would be a four-hour event ended up as a seven-hour event with everyone fairly exhausted, but absolutely humbled by the Veterans responses. This was my third event as Site Coordinator, and I am pleased to report that it was absolutely the most rewarding of them all… and that says a lot… because each HOB event is so special in the joy and care that is shared in honoring our Veterans.”

– Brian Goodman

Washington – Vancouver VA

“We first went to The Transplant/Oncology Lodge. Due to residents compromised immunity system we could not meet with the residents. We meet the assistant mgr. of The Lodge to give her cupcakes, cinch bags with patriotic flashlights and lip balm, Hygiene Kits and HOB shirts for the residents. We took photos with the assistant mgr. with items. We went to the RRTP–Residential Rehab for Veterans dealing with drug and alcohol addictions, while residents were having lunch to pass out hygiene Kits, cupcakes, cinch bags with lip balm and give out stocking hats to residents and leave HOB t-shirts for them. We went to the CLC–Community Living Center to pass out HOB t-shirts and cinch bags with back scratchers and lip balm to the patients of the CLC”

– Debbie Roper

California – Long Beach VA

“We had the pleasure of serving our Veterans some donuts and lunch. The Veterans visited our setup throughout the day. We also had the honor to visit veterans in the hospital and pass out t-shirts and hats.”

– Tricia Burke, BMS

North Carolina – Fayetteville VA

“We met 25 Veterans who were thrilled to see Navy Federal Credit Union giving back and showing them pride, a truly inspiring experience. We had an incredible time with these Veterans, and they had a wonderful sense of humor, with the jokes they made that brought us all together in a shared moment of joy. The appreciation was truly felt throughout everyone including the staff, creating a sense of connection and community. Navy Federal Credit Union has been invited back on their Saturday Bingo Day’s, and we look forward to continuing to give back and show our appreciation, making a real difference. I will hope we can make this happen and will be able to spend time with them even if it’s just a couple of hours, bringing happiness and cheer. The bingo machine should have played music with how big it was but it was so much fun to see the faces of them giving each other kudos for whoever called “BINGO!”, a moment of pure euphoria. Everyone was a winner and received a prize, a testament to the power of kindness and generosity. It was the most awesome experience I have been apart of and the volunteers all agreed, an experience that will stay with us forever, inspiring us to continue spreading joy and kindness. We like to appreciate Katie and Home of the Brave for this opportunity and hope to be invited again next year!”

– Nakisha Monroe, Navy Federal Credit Union

California – San Francisco VA

“We began the day by setting up for coffee and donuts in the main corridor of the VAMC in San Francisco. We rotated between serving coffee and donuts to Veterans going to the ambulatory care clinic and assembling gift bags consisting of a T-shirt or ball cap, a hygiene kit, and a thank you card in a cinch bag. Accompanied by VA volunteer escorts we distributed the gift bags and visited with the Veterans who were inpatients in the Community Living Center. A highlight of Arne’s day was speaking with Virgil, a retired USCG helicopter pilot who had been at Air Station San Francisco. Keisha spoke for a while with a fellow Air Force veteran.”

– Arnold Gelb, BMS

Florida – Orlando VA

“These are pictures of the volunteers that support Home of the Brave at the Orlando VA. We had an amazing day doing patient visits and playing bingo with our local veterans. Soldiers’ Angels leaders Cheryl & Nilsson captured the photos during patient visits and Bingo of the veterans. During bingo we gave out prizes along with cupcakes and ice cream.”

– Daniel Rudin

Minnesota – Minneapolis VA

“What a fantastic event! Our Home of The Brave group has so much pride to have this opportunity to show appreciation to our veterans and their families.”

– John Hughes, BMS

Iowa – Iowa City VA

“I have never been in the hospital before now, this is my first experience as a VA inpatient and this is such a wonderful place to be a patient at. I feel so cared for here, the staff is wonderful, and now I get visits from people like you; telling me Thank you and giving me some free stuff, what a great place! I feel so cared for here, thank you.”- Iowa City VA Patient

“I don’t know why I get a Thank You like this today, I wasn’t shot at nor did I have to shoot at anyone during my service, I don’t feel right accepting this.” To this, our Soldier’s Angel’s/Home of the Brave Volunteer replied: ”But you signed up to serve our great country and by doing this, (you could have been put in harms way), by simply serving, you put your country’s needs ahead of your own; for this service alone, you deserve many, many thank yous!” The veteran became teary eyed and shook both our hands and said “since you put it that way, ok- thank you I will accept this gift.” – Conversation between Iowa City VA patient and HOTB Volunteer staff

“I feel so appreciated today, this is so nice.”

– Many Iowa City VA Veterans coming into the hospital and getting a free coffee and doughnut

California – Palo Alto VA

“Today was a wonderful event for our veterans, they really appreciate it.” – Donald, VA Staff Member

“We had a wonderful luncheon for veterans that could come to the dining room as well as we delivered meals to the veterans in their rooms. Lots of gratitude and smiling faces. One of the Dr.s is in a band and they played music for the veterans.” – Bethany Chung, BMS

“Picked up sandwich boxes at Panera Bread, Distributed lunch and cinch bags following local high school glee club performance to about 60 long-term inpatient Veterans in the Community Living Center, wishing them Happy Veterans Day, and chatting and listening to some of their stories. Special thanks to Beth for stepping up as site coordinator after Catherine left the company. Thanks also to Rishoo and Irene our VA Liaison and escort, respectively.”

– Arnold Gelb, BMS

Boston – West Roxbury VA

“The volunteers from Bristol Myers Squibb packed 168 cinch sacks to be distributed to inpatients at the West Roxbury VAMC. Included were hats or shirts, hygiene kits, activity books and pens, socks, stress balls, and Crisis Line items. They did a great job sorting and repacking the bags by size.”

“Volunteers from Bristol Myers Squibb did patient visits and distributed the cinch sacks that they packed earlier in the week. They visited and gave sacks to 120 inpatients at the West Roxbury VAMC. The photo attached was of a 100 year old World War 2 veteran who was discharged from the hospital later the same day.”

– Elliot Simons