KEARNEY, NEB. — Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly visited the Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home (CNVH) on Monday to recognize the Korean War veterans living at the facility. During the ceremony, 17 Korean War veterans were recognized, with close to 100 people in attendance.
“Meeting with the veterans at our state veterans’ homes is a distinct honor, and it’s especially meaningful being able to recognize them personally for their service,” said Lt. Gov. Kelly. “It is as important as ever to listen and take their stories to heart as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary so that our children and grandchildren know what freedom truly means.”
In addition to remarks and the presentation of coins by Lieutenant Governor Kelly, CNVH Administrator Dorin Vaipan gave a welcome and led a moment of remembrance for those killed in the Korean War and the veterans who have passed since. “The Star-Spangled Banner” was performed by CNVH Director of Social Work Dave Kreutzer and both VFW Post 759 and American Legion Post 52 served as color guard.
“Honoring the members of our state veterans’ homes is an important part of NDVA’s mission and a reminder that every day we serve America’s heroes,” said NDVA Director John Hilgert. “I want to thank the family members who joined the ceremony, the dedicated staff who helped make today possible, and, of course, our Korean War veterans as we continue our initiative to recognize them with these challenge coins that are unique to Nebraska.”
Over 300 Korean War veterans have received recognition coins since the program was announced earlier this year by Governor Pillen and NDVA. The coin is available to living veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces between June 27, 1950, and January 31, 1955; are legal residents of Nebraska or can demonstrate Nebraska residency at the time they entered the service; and discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Information on the program, application forms, and a list of currently planned events around the state can be found at veterans.nebraska.gov/korea.
NDVA’s mission is to honor Nebraska veterans and their families by providing excellent service, assistance, and care. Its state service office helps veterans identify and access federal benefits, such as disability compensation and healthcare through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and state benefits, such as Nebraska Veterans Aid, tuition waivers, and more. Its four state veterans’ homes offer high quality assisted living and skilled nursing care to veterans and eligible family members across the state. And its cemetery system ensures eligible veterans receive an honorable final resting place maintained to the highest national standards. To learn more about NDVA and how it serves Nebraska’s veterans and their families, please visit veterans.nebraska.gov.
