INDUSTRY INSIGHT
VETERANS DAY
SPONSORED CONTENT
Honoring Our Veterans in Word and Deed
Soldier’s Heroism Changes
Generations to Come
S
pringhill Senior Living is home to
many veterans who, if asked, will
sometimes share incredible stories
of courage and heroism.
Recently, the past actions of one
veteran in particular hit home in a most
personal way.
Patrick Lyons served in the Korean
War. One day, as Pat was out and about
around the campus, he ran into Lou
DePalma, Springhill’s director of
facilities. As Lou introduced himself, Pat
immediately perked up.
Patrick Lyons,
He asked Lou to repeat his last name
Springhill resident
and then asked the name of his father.
In an incredible collision of worlds, Pat
had rescued Lou’s father, Mario DePalma,
while on the same U.S. base. One day,
Pat heard the cries of a soldier, and saw
Mario trapped in a hole with his leg
caught in a fan blade. He could still recall
the desperation in the soldier’s face. Pat
had to act and he did.
Although Mario lost his leg from that
injury, his life was saved. After the war,
he married and had children, one of
whom was now standing in front of Pat.
On November 11, Springhill will honor
Pat and the many other veterans who
Patrick Lyons
we are proud to work with and serve.
Our annual
Veteran’s Day breakfast fills our large dining
room, and includes residents, associates, and
speakers and special guests from local
veteran’s organizations. Some residents
proudly appear in uniform, and a one-day
museum of sorts is created housing
photos, mementos, even swords, from
their days in service.
The feeling of pride and patriotism is
palpable. What an honor it is to be able to
recognize these brave men and women!
Giving Back:
The Erie VA Medical Center
This holiday season, Springhill’s residents and associates
will be hosting fundraising events and campaigns in the
senior living community to purchase items on the Erie VA
Medical Center’s wish list. We are excited to begin this project
and partnership.
With many veterans living and working on our campus, we
feel a strong sense of obligation to help those who served our
nation when they are at their most vulnerable.
Community-service oriented volunteer opportunities like
these are part of the fabric at Springhill Senior Living. We take
our mission to do all the good we can for those we serve and
for the Erie region very seriously.
If you would like to take part in
our Holiday Giving Campaign for
the Erie VA Medical Center, please
contact Springhill’s Patty Leuschen
at 814.860.7043.
www.erie.va.gov
Velma Gunselman,
Springhill resident
Millcreek | Winter 2016 | icmags.com 53