The Oaks at Denville Hosts Veterans Day Program
November 13, 2023
In honor of Veterans Day (November 11), The Oaks at Denville, a Springpoint Life Plan Community, hosted a program earlier this month to recognize those who served. Residents and team members gathered for a touching ceremony filled with song, dedication, and remembrance. Springpoint COO and fellow veteran David Woodward was in attendance, along with The Oaks at Denville Executive Director Ann Ricci Kenah, who opened the program by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Community Chaplain Kim Baumgartner then shared additional opening remarks, followed by a beautiful reading of the poem “In Flanders Field” by Director of Resident Life, Kristin Williams.
Resident Pat Hannon recited another heartfelt poem entitled “A Veteran’s Wife.” Her husband Bob Hannon, a Navy veteran, then took to the podium to share the amazing life story of fellow veteran and longtime friend, 106-year-old Robert P. Beaven.
Beaven was commissioned 2nd Lt. in 1942 and joined the 63rd Division Infantry during World War II. He traveled overseas and arrived the day after the invasion of Marseilles in Southern France in 1944. He immediately entered combat and remained active until the war ended. He received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart along with many other accolades during his service. Upon returning home to New Jersey, he built a successful career at Essex Chemical Corporation for 30 years.
This event drew over 50 attendees, several embellished in military flair including hats, jackets, medals, and badges. Veterans were asked to stand for distinction when their military branch was called during the playing of the “Armed Forces Medley” – this included the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Airforce, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Marine Corps. Each resident veteran was then recognized by name before the crowd joined in a beautiful rendition of “God Bless America.” A community Veterans Day tribute was also on display throughout the week.
Springpoint is proud to recognize so many of our own residents and staff who have honorably served in the United States Armed Forces. It is a true privilege to pay tribute to them and their families. The event at The Oaks is just one outstanding example of the many Veterans Day programs that were held throughout the week by several Springpoint communities.
Veterans Day–originally known as Armistice Day–is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11, for honoring military veterans of the United States Armed Forces.
For more information about The Oaks at Denville and to view upcoming community events, please visit our website.
