The Veteran Visitation program is a meaningful initiative that aims to provide support and companionship to veterans during their hospital stay. Developed through a partnership between Naples Community Hospital (NCH) and the South Florida Red Cross, this program offers a unique opportunity for volunteers to engage with veterans, express gratitude for their service, and positively impact their well-being. In this article, we will explore the significance of the Veteran Visitation program, the benefits it provides, and the experiences of volunteers like Dennis Parker.

The Veteran Visitation program is a collaborative effort led by dedicated Red Cross volunteers who visit veterans at their bedside during their hospital stay. The volunteers initiate conversations by thanking the veterans for their service, which often leads to discussions about their military background, including the branch in which they served and their deployment experiences. As the conversation progresses, the volunteers also explain the relationship between NCH, the Red Cross, and the benefits available through Veterans Affairs. As a gesture of appreciation, patients receive an NCH-branded "veteran" lap blanket.

The Veteran Visitation program benefits both the patients and the volunteers. For patients, it provides a welcome distraction from their hospitalization and lifts their spirits by allowing them to reminisce about their military experiences with fellow veterans. Additionally, Red Cross volunteers like Dennis Parker find the program personally rewarding, enabling him to give back to his community and honor fellow service members.

Dennis Parker, a Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces volunteer in the Veteran Visitation program, has a rich military background spanning several decades. His journey began in high school when he joined the US Naval Sea Cadets. In 968, he enlisted in the Navy. As a Fire Control Tech in the weapons division aboard the USS Perry, Dennis made an extended Blue Water WestPac deployment during the Vietnam era. Following his active duty, he utilized the GI Bill to obtain an engineering degree in Electron/Mechanics.

With his engineering background, Dennis pursued a successful career in the high-tech industry. However, his passion for supporting veterans led him to establish his own Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business called TechTrueUp in 2012. Today, Dennis also actively participates in a non-profit organization called "The Veteran Initiative," where he runs the Flags for Fallen Mission program every Memorial Day.

Dennis also volunteers as a courtesy cart driver at the hospital, further contributing to the well-being of patients. Connecting with veterans and expressing gratitude for their service brings a sense of pride and fulfillment to volunteers, creating a mutually beneficial experience for both parties involved.

Whether through the Veteran Visitation program or other initiatives, being part of the volunteer community is a truly rewarding experience. Volunteers like Dennis Parker have the privilege of making a difference in the lives of others, particularly veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving their country. The act of selflessly giving back to the community not only benefits the recipients but also brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment to those who volunteer.

The Veteran Visitation program is a testament to the power of compassion, camaraderie, and gratitude. This program gives veterans the support and companionship they deserve during their hospital stay. At the same time, volunteers like Dennis Parker have the opportunity to make a positive impact and express their appreciation for the sacrifices made by fellow veterans. As the Red Cross continues to play a vital role in facilitating this program, the bonds created between veterans and volunteers contribute to a brighter and more compassionate future. Let us honor those who served and ensure they receive the care and gratitude they deserve.

To learn more about how the Red Cross serves members of the military, veterans and their families, visit redcross.org/SAF.

Written by Bret Hollander, American Red Cross Public Affairs