MINNEAPOLIS –
Soldiers of the Minneapolis Army Recruiting Battalion and volunteers from the American Red Cross - Twin Cities area, gathered with residents and families of the Minneapolis Veteran’s Home on Dec. 15, 2023.
While donning Santa hats, Soldiers and volunteers split into groups to spread holiday cheer to every area of the home. Along with holiday cards, treats, and smiles, the groups also delivered handmade fleece blankets donated by a local high school.
Throughout the day, Veterans were excited to recount their stories with the current Army Service Members, and both new and experienced Soldiers felt the forging of intergenerational bonds. Many Veterans remarked that it was like seeing a reflection of their younger self in the Soldiers standing before them.
After individual room visits and conversations, Veterans and their families gathered in the community room to witness a Drill Team demonstration presented by the Saint Thomas Academy Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program.
Filled with warm hearts and the spirit of the season, planning for future events with the Minneapolis Veterans’ Home began before the day ended. While the gifts and goodies may not be long remembered, the bonds between Soldiers are unforgettable.