Over 16 million Americans served in World War II.

Although fewer than .5% of veterans are with us today, their stories live through their children and grandchildren. Stephen, a resident at Gabriel Homes, often reshares the stories of his father, who served during World War II.

Gabriel Homes resident at Arlington National Cemetery.

A Day Trip to Arlington National Cemetery

His father came up repeatedly when Daniel Borges, a program coordinator at Gabriel Homes, took Stephen on a trip Arlington National Cemetery. The two rode on a narrated tram tour with stops at sites including President Kennedy’s gravesite and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

“Arlington Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the United States. We learned about lots of famous Americans, and the tour told us what veterans did during each war.”
Gabriel Homes resident at Arlington National Cemetery.
Stephen
Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes resident at Arlington National Cemetery. They spent much of the time there reflecting on memories with their father.

Changing of the Guard

The highlight of the trip was the visit to the Memorial Amphitheater, the home of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The monument, which is the final resting place for and an honor of the unidentified fallen soldiers, performs the famous changing of the guard every thirty minutes in the spring. Stephen and Daniel caught the ceremony as the Old Guard, or tomb guards, changed watch between soldiers.

“The military asks for everyone’s silence when they lead the ceremony, but Stephen could not stop talking about his father’s service!”

Daniel Borges, Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes resident at Arlington National Cemetery.

Changing of the Guard

At the end of the tour, Daniel and Stephen saw a section of every military medal imaginable. Stephen said his father and uncle, who served together, received every medal he saw. 

“My father was part of the 45th Infantry, also known as the Thunderbirds, when he fought in Italy,” Stephen said. “He was shot in the arm and the doctors wanted to amputate it, but he said no! Doctors and nurses took care of him for a long time in the VA hospital. Thank goodness he was O.K., or else I wouldn’t be here!” 

At Gabriel Homes, every resident brings stories worth remembering and sharing.

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