Beckley VA Medical Center
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2012 Welcome Home
Spc. April Crawford and son rides Skip. Skip is an American Quarter horse that is used for horse-therapy.
VA Medical Center hosts annual celebration to honor veterans and their families
GLEN JEAN — Veterans and their families gathered Sunday at the Glen Jean National Guard Armory for food, music, games and fun at the annual “Welcome Home” celebration. An estimated 300 people attended the celebration, according to Public Affairs Officer Debbie Voloski. Each year the VA Medical Center hosts a welcome home for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans who have returned home throughout the year. This year’s celebration included horse rides, an inflatable bounce room, live entertainment, vendors, as well as plenty of food and games. Horse rides were provided by Wild Spirit, which is an organization that uses horse-therapy for those with special needs. Recently, the organization has been offering services to veterans, especially those who have sustained injuries. Veteran Butch Ragland said he finds horse riding very relaxing, especially out west. “There’s nothing like riding in the wilderness,” Ragland said. Billy Pate, with Wild Spirit, said he was honored to be a part of the welcome home celebration. “These are great Americans and great American families. They keep us safe and free.” He said the kids, along with their parents, seemed thrilled to ride the two horses, Cosmo and Skip. “Today we’re here for everyone. It’s a great honor to be here with the veterans. They’re heroes of mine.” Veteran Porsha Kaylor said she had a great time at the event. “It’s a great thing what they’re doing, especially for the families,” Kaylor said. “Being a part of the Army National Guard is really important to me. I have a lot of pride being a part of it.” For more information about upcoming events, call 304-255-2121 or visit www.beckley.va.gov. — E-mail: wholdren@register-herald.com |
