Veterans Share Meaningful Experience at “Dunkirk”
Bob had a simple request of his hospice team: to see “Dunkirk,” a 2017 World War II film, in theaters after it was released. His preference was to view the movie with a fellow veteran.
“I was not in the service during the era this movie took place, but I did serve during the Korean War as a young man in the Air Force and thought I would be able to relate to this movie,” said Bob. “I was only in the service a few years, and afterwards I never wanted anyone to make a fuss about it.”
Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro (HPCG) believes it is never too late to thank veterans for their military service. The Vet-to-Vet volunteer program at HPCG matches veteran volunteers with veteran patients. In doing so, patients have the valuable opportunity to discuss their service with someone who understands.
Bob was partnered with an HPCG Vet-to-Vet volunteer named Joe. “It is truly an honor to serve as a volunteer with an organization that values the unique experiences of our veterans,” shared Joe. “The service members we serve come from all walks of life, but they all share several fundamental qualities. They possessed courage, pride, selflessness, dedication to duty and integrity—all the qualities needed to serve a cause larger than one’s self.”
Veterans often carry experiences from their military service that present unique health care challenges. By recognizing the needs of veterans who are facing a life-limiting illness, HPCG staff are better able to guide them and their families toward a more peaceful ending.
Joe felt privileged to be Bob’s volunteer. He too was interested in seeing “Dunkirk” and was honored to take Bob to see it.
“As the movie credits rolled and the people cleared the theater, we both sat quietly at first. Then Bob broke the silence and started discussing his own military experiences. And I just listened. That discussion was important for both of us that day, and it embodies our efforts to capture moments that really matter.”
Click here to learn more about the We Honor Veterans program at HPCG.