November 2021 THE CHARBONNEAU VILLAGER 21
SpringRidge at Charbonneau
By KERRY PHILLIPS
SpringRidge veterans bond , find camaraderie amongst peers
Glen Holden and Phil Welling are more than just brothers-in-law , they are brothers-in-arms , having served in the United States Navy . Their military service and careers took them on different paths but ultimately led them to SpringRidge , an active retirement community , where they relish opportunities to be with each other and fellow veterans .
Glen joined the military in 1945 at just 17 . He recalls being a few weeks into basic training when the U . S . detonated the first nuclear bomb over the Japanese city of Hiroshima . He went on to have a fascinating military career , teaching new seamen recruits critical swimming techniques , including diving from a 30-foot platform into a Naval station pool to prepare for emergencies like abandoning ship .
“ The military was good training , not only during my time in the service but for later in life ,” he said . “ These lessons served me well in my post-military careers and continue to this day .”
In the 1950s , he began civilian life as an insurance agent and , in 1956 , created his own agency . He was also the U . S . ambassador to Jamaica from 1989-1993 .
As he reflects on Veterans Day , he feels honored to be surrounded by other brave men and women at SpringRidge .
“ I ’ m reminded of a class of people who gave so much to ensure our freedoms ,” he said . “ They were responsible , self-sufficient and everyone — man , woman and child — worked together in support of the war effort .”
Phil , who was stationed at the U . S . Naval Hospital in San Diego during his time in the Navy , shares his brother-inlaw ’ s sentiments ( and research does too ). A study found military camaraderie ranks as the number one thing veterans miss when transitioning to the civilian world .
He quips only someone who has been in the military would genuinely appreciate the old Army saying that has become one of his life ’ s philosophies : If it moves , salute it . If it doesn ’ t , paint it or shine it !
And , there are plenty of opportunities at SpringRidge to exchange a laugh about boot camp stories or reflect on the toll of war . The Zest Department , charged with appealing to residents ’ mind , body and soul , ensures resident-veterans are recognized and are able to connect with others .
The community hosts a “ Remembering Pearl Harbor ” luncheon and the “ Wall of Honor ,” a permanent photo display , is a reminder of sacrifices made by servicemen and women . On Nov . 11 in honor of Veterans Day , the community has planned a patriotic ceremony with entertainment and will induct new veterans into the exhibit . A pinning ceremony will also pay tribute to all SpringRidge veterans .
Don Cook , a resident-veteran who served on a Navy battleship in West Virginia , appreciates the friendships that can form from these types of community events .
“ Our generation had to grow up fast ,” he explained . “ There ’ s a unique bond we share as veterans , having had to be so serious about life , mature quickly and em-
See SPRINGRIDGE / Page 22
COURTESY PHOTO
From left to right : Phil Welling , Don Cook and Glen Holden served in the military .
• Residential Commercial
• Interior & Exterior
• Pressure Washer
• Serving the Northwest for 30 years
• Custom Woodwork
503-522-7978 canbypaintingllc . net
Licensed • Bonded • Insured CCB # 183990