Honoring Veterans Through Volunteer Service

At Allied Services, a deeply meaningful initiative is ensuring that no veteran’s service goes unrecognized. The Allied Services Hospice and Palliative Care Veteran Recognition Program brings dignity, gratitude, and healing to veteran patients and their families at one of life’s most profound moments.

At its heart, the program is simple but powerful: honoring those who served.

A Ceremony of Gratitude

Veteran patients receiving hospice care - whether in their home, in one of our inpatient hospice centers, or in another care facility - are recognized through a personalized ceremony conducted by a fellow veteran volunteer. Each ceremony is a moving tribute, presenting the patient and their loved ones with a certificate of service, a commemorative star from a retired American flag, a small American flag, and a division flag representing the veteran’s branch of service.

These ceremonies often become unforgettable moments for families.

“Recognizing a Veteran’s service brings comfort, dignity, and often a sense of healing to patients and their loved ones,” said Laura Marion, AVP of Hospice and Palliative Care at Allied Services. “These moments remind us that the sacrifices they made were not forgotten. It's an honor for our hospice team to witness such meaningful expressions of gratitude.”

At its heart, the program is simple but powerful: honoring those who served.

The Volunteers Who Make It Possible

Behind every ceremony are the veteran volunteers who give their time - and their shared experience - to make each recognition meaningful. Three individuals, in particular, have helped shape and sustain the program: Ron Skamanich, Michael Grady, and Jamie Heid.

Ron Skamanich: The Program’s Humble Beginnings


A Vietnam War veteran, Ron Skamanich served as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Army, with tours in Germany and Vietnam. After his military service, he continued his career with the National Guard for more than 25 years.

The program began quietly after Ron’s retirement, when his wife, Linda, noticed that some veteran hospice patients had no family by their side. She encouraged Ron to volunteer - to simply be present and offer comfort. That small act of compassion grew into the program that exists today.

“Coming back from Vietnam, veterans weren't treated very well,” Ron shared. “And I said, you know, we should always honor our veterans when we get a chance.”

Today, Ron continues to visit patients, bringing not just recognition, but connection.


Michael Grady: Carrying Service Forward


Sergeant First Class Michael Grady, a U.S. Army engineer who has served in Germany, Kuwait, and Afghanistan, brings a unique perspective to his volunteer role.

“It’s fulfilling being able to recognize these veterans for their service,” Grady noted.

Michael takes time during visits to listen, giving patients the opportunity to share their stories - sometimes revealing experiences even their families have never heard before. These powerful moments of connection often leave a lasting impact on everyone involved.

These experiences have also shaped his role as an Army Reserve administrator, where he mentors new service members.

Michael plans to deploy again in 2026, continuing his commitment to service both at home and abroad.

Jamie Heid: A Family Mission of Giving Back


For U.S. Air Force veteran Jamie Heid, the program became personal after his father received hospice care through Allied Services and experienced the recognition ceremony firsthand.

“It was an instant yes,” Jamie said of volunteering. “It would be an honor,” Jamie shared. “The feeling you get from being able to honor these veterans - it’s like nothing else,”

Now volunteering alongside his wife Lori, the pair brings both military understanding and heartfelt compassion to each ceremony - creating meaningful experiences for veterans and their families alike.

Lori adds a deeply personal touch to the ceremonies, often delivering readings that resonate with families.

“I love hearing all of the stories and the amazing heroics the veterans share,” she said. “It’s eye opening and gives you such perspective.

A Lasting Impact

The Veteran Recognition Program is made possible through the compassion and dedication of volunteers who give their time, their presence, and their shared experiences to honor those who served. Their commitment ensures that every veteran is recognized with the dignity and gratitude they deserve.

Sustaining this meaningful work also depends on the support of our community. Funding from initiatives like Team Allied Services and You helps make it possible to continue these ceremonies and reach veterans when it matters most.

Through every stage of recovery, healing, and aging, Allied Services remains steadfast in its commitment to those who served - bringing comfort, recognition, and heartfelt appreciation to veterans and their families.

To learn more about Hospice and Palliative Care at Allied Services click here

To learn more about becoming a Hospice Volunteer click here