Veterans honored at Westview
DAYVILLE — The facilities of Westview Health Care Center, Country Living at Westview Commons, and Westview Child Care Center united in heartfelt gratitude to honor America’s veterans.  Veterans Day across the Westview campus celebrated not only the traditions of the holiday, but the veterans who reside there, those receiving care, staff and families with military ties, and the many proud service members within the broader community.
Between Westview Health Care Center and Westview Commons, 37 veterans were recognized in ceremonies joined by family members, friends, and visiting service members.  Westview’s appreciation extended across the nation and throughout the local community—embracing every veteran whose sacrifice strengthens the shared American story.
Each Westview facility marked the day with its own meaningful elements under a common banner of respect.  Westview Health Care Center and Country Living at Westview Commons both opened their Veterans Day Programs with the proud presence of American Legion Leo J. L’Homme/William F. Burdick Post 21, whose Color Guard presented the state and national flags before audiences rose in unison for the National Anthem, a reflective invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance.  At Westview Commons, resident Pamela Rosenlund offered a moving reading of Ann Landers’ “Who Is a Vet?” to deepen the moment’s solemnity.
Before patriotic flags were distributed to the honored veterans, both venues welcomed distinguished guest speakers.  Ronald P. Coderre, U.S. Air Force veteran, addressed the audience at Westview Health Care Center, while Frederick Ruhlemann, U.S. Navy veteran and President of the Danielson Veterans Coffeehouse, spoke at Westview Commons.  Each speaker—accompanied by a member of Post 21 and a facility staff member—personally greeted every veteran present.  This gesture was marked by a handshake, an American flag, and clear-eyed acknowledgment.  The somber yet sweet bugle tones of “Taps” followed, offering quiet pause before Post 21 retired the colors.
The ceremonies were arranged by Westview’s Therapeutic Recreation Department and Westview Commons’ Activities Coordinators, whose detailed planning shaped the respectful atmosphere.  Across the street, students at Westview Child Care Center added their own heartfelt tribute by creating handmade greeting cards to have delivered to veterans at Westview Health Care Center.
After the principal honors led by Post 21’s Color Guard, both facilities presented moving musical tributes set in the key of life and liberty.  Westview Health Care Center welcomed Linda Colangelo, whose patriotic repertoire filled the room with warmth and reverence. Ms. Colangelo—an expressive vocalist with a strong stripe of American pride—also read “Who Is a Vet?” and performed the National Anthem to open the program.
At Westview Commons, residents enjoyed a stirring performance by Sgt. Daniel M. Clark, “The Singing Trooper.” A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and retired Massachusetts State Trooper, Clark has appeared at more than 2,500 military and civic events. 
His program—featuring service anthems, “God Bless America,” “Amazing Grace,” and other patriotic selections—brought his trademark blend of vocal command, heartfelt sincerity, and enduring respect for fellow veterans.
Westview remains steadfast in its year-round dedication to honoring veterans through programs, remembrances, and community partnerships. The Westview family offers sincere thanks to all who contributed to these ceremonies—and extends profound gratitude to every veteran across the Union whose courage and service continue to safeguard the nation we proudly call home.

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