The Minnesota Veterans Home – Minneapolis honored Residents during Branch of Service Recognition Week which began August 12. Celebration days were filled with performances from local talent, fun activities and games and fair food. The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 550 provided Residents with red, white and blue key-clip lanyards to commemorate the event. 

To kick-off the week, live music from Colleen Wold Hiebeler accompanied the “Honor our Vets” Program sponsored by Asera Care. Residents shared a Branch of Service Emblem cake as the singer and guitarist entertained. 

On August 13, Rob Ellos, a retired science teacher and dedicated researcher from Stillwater, Minn, gave a historical presentation on the Apollo Moon Landing which included moon themed snacks for Residents.

Two days later on August 15, the North Suburban Chorus performed at the Home. The Chorus is known to perform a variety of songs from old classics to ‘60s and ‘70s pop songs and takes its name from the North Suburban Senior Council who originally offered support and practice space during the group’s beginning.

The celebration continued on August 16 with a pig roast provided by Divine Swine. The feast was sponsored by Vasatka Goers VFW Post 6690 and Amvets Post 1. Around 2:30, Residents were honored with a performance by renowned Jazz musician Johnny Holliday. A military member who served in Iraq, Holliday has since performed for thousands during NASCAR, NFL and MLB pregame ceremonies, as well as military dignitaries and foreign ambassadors.

On Sunday August 18, Vettes for Vets and American Legion Post 643 presented a Corvette Classic Car show while they collected donations and socks which benefitted the Home.

To complete the festivities on August 22, four lucky Residents received hand-made Branch of Service blankets after names were collected for a drawing.

The Minneapolis Home would like to thank all of the community members and sponsors who contributed their time and financial help. The activities and events, which enrich the lives of Residents, could not have happened without their help!