07/24/2026
What Moves a Veteran? What Brings a Veteran to Tears? 💜
Is it the red, white, and blue? The American flag placed in their hands? The sight of fellow veterans standing together in respect? Or is it having a lifetime of service recognized?
Recently, Hospice of Wichita Falls had the privilege of honoring Jerry Harsh through our Salute to Service Ceremony, a special program that recognizes and thanks the local military veterans and first responders in our care.
As fellow veterans and Salute to Service volunteers gathered around him, the room grew quiet. Words of gratitude were shared, a beautiful poem was read (attached in the photos), veterans rendered a salute to one of their own, and the National Anthem filled the room.
As the music played, tears welled in Jerry's eyes.
Perhaps he was remembering his years as a United States Navy Radioman between 1967 to 1972, including service during Operation Team Spirit in Korea, and the five years that followed in the Army National Guard.
Or perhaps he was reflecting on a legacy much bigger than himself.
His father, Leland Ralph Harsh, served in the U.S. Army and earned a Purple Heart. Years later, Jerry answered the call. Then his daughter, Vanessa, continued that tradition through her service in the United States Air Force. Three generations. Three uniforms. One family's enduring legacy of service to our nation.
During the ceremony, Jerry received a veteran pin, a certificate of appreciation, heartfelt thank you card created by students at Sheppard AFB Elementary School, and a handmade patriotic quilt. But the most meaningful gift wasn't something he could hold. It was knowing that his service mattered, his sacrifices were remembered, and his story would not be forgotten.
The Salute to Service Program was initiated by Michele Houck in memory of her father, a proud Navy veteran. Today, that vision continues through dedicated volunteers who ensure veterans like Jerry receive the recognition and gratitude they have so richly earned.
At Hospice of Wichita Falls, our Salute to Service Ceremonies are about more than pins, certificates, quilts, and keepsakes. They are an opportunity to say what can never be said enough: Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and the freedoms you helped protect.
And judging by the tears in Jerry's eyes, those words meant everything.
Some heroes never ask to be recognized. That's exactly why they deserve to be. 🇺🇸