A We Honor Veterans pinning ceremony and military salute was held for Donald Reese on September 15th, his 100th birthday. The program was presented by Mayo Clinic Hospice and Representatives of Red Wing American Legion through the Hiawatha Valley Family Beyond the Yellow Ribbon chapter, which serves veterans and deployed service members. A legion member and Army veteran opened the program saying, “Our big thing is to come and pay honor where honor is due, and honor is due today for you, Donald. We are here to support you.”
Pam Roe, a social worker with Mayo Hospice, presented a certificate printed with Don’s name and “United States Army” for his 2 years of service. Reading from the special certificate, she shared, “We appreciate our veterans. We pay special tribute to you for your military service to America and for advancing the universal hope of freedom and liberty for all.” He was then presented with an Army pin. “And with that pin, Don, we say thank you for your service to our nation, thank you for the sacrifices you made, and your willingness to serve our country. You endured hardships and were willing to risk your life to maintain our freedoms and on behalf of the Mayo Clinic staff and volunteers, the Veterans Administration, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and our local legion we want to thank you, and please accept our sincere gratitude. When you see that pin, know that your service to the nation is deeply appreciated and we thank you.”
“Thank you, thank you,” Don repeated humbly after each presentation.
Roe continued the presentation saying, “One of the things that many people don’t know about Mayo Clinic is that our founding fathers at Mayo – both the brothers Mayo – were military members as well. And so we’d like to give you this special commemorative coin.” The three military members present also handed Don what they called Challenge Coins. The coin from the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization lists all service branches, including the Space Force, on the back.
“One last gift, Don. The Evening Star Quilting Guild of Red Wing is honored to present this red, white and blue pillow case as a thank you for all you have done to protect our freedoms. This one has been specially sewn just for you,” Roe said as she handed Don the package.
After the group admired and commented on “All these birthday gifts”, the servicemen lined up and said, “We have one other thing we want to do, Don. We want to honor you with a salute.”
“I appreciate it,” Don said and added another, “Thank you.” The group then sang Happy Birthday and took photos. In addition to Don and his wife, Lila, their eight children and spouses attended the event. The family offered a “Happy 100th” toast and enjoyed root beer floats and spending time with Don on his birthday.
