November 25, 1998
Thomas tradition continues
VFW volunteers bring early Christmas cheer to Birchwood Nursing Center
Herald contributing writer
Christmas came early for two dozen veterans living at the Birchwood Nursing Center in Garfield Township. Last Saturday, six members of the VFW Post 2780 came to share Christmas songs, lunch and presents with the veterans, bringing tears to the eyes of both receivers and givers.
"It is real nice to have this," said Nile Spears, a resident of Birchwood for just three weeks who received a pair of shorts and some Christmas cookies as gifts. "I served in the Army 7th Infantry in the Pacific during the war."
This year the VFW volunteers also came in honor of their long-time friend and fellow volunteer William Thomas. Thomas and his wife, Shirley, started the tradition 35 years ago of bringing gifts, entertainment and a meal to honor the veterans living at the State Hospital. Both have been actively involved in the VFW's holiday program over the years, with Thomas serving as department post chairman for 25 years and Shirley as holiday chairman for the post's Ladies Auxiliary.
Although Thomas died last December, the VFW members wanted to continue the tradition he and his wife started. Once again, volunteers contacted Birchwood officials in advance to get gift ideas, which ranged from the practical of clothes or a radio to the impractical of a cherry pie, pop or cookies. Each year they give a little bit more to residents who do not have family nearby to bring them gifts.
"We used to have 60 or 80 veterans to give to over 20 years ago," said Shirley Thomas. "We always have a few last-minute hair-raising experiences every year to find a new resident a gift."
Even a coat can make all the difference in the world, and Thomas recalled one year a man who received a coat was so tearfully grateful he had everyone else crying with him.
"This makes them feel remembered and proud of serving their country," said Mary Ghering, Social Service Coordinator for Birchwood Nursing Center. "I always know if I needed something for someone I can call the veteran's organizations and get some assistance."
In fact, many area veterans groups support the veterans living in area nursing homes year round. The VFW's Christmas party happens to be the oldest but it is one of many, each group giving time on many holidays throughout the year.
The VFW volunteers are also going on Saturday to the Grand Traverse Pavilions to bring lunch and presents to the veterans living there, the first year they have gone to this facility.
"It is important to bring the community to the nursing homes," said Tricia Limon, activities coordinator for the Birchwood Nursing Center, who helped gather and pass along Christmas gift ideas for her residents to the VFW.