We are so thankful for the men and women who have served our country and defended our freedom!
For Veterans Day, we asked veterans across Sagora communities to share their experiences with us, including the lessons they learned and their favorite memories from their time in the US Armed Forces. We’re so thankful for those who shared their experiences with us. Here are some of their stories from various Sagora communities, including our team members who work in Sagora’s home office:
Home Office
Rhonda H. served in the Army and now serves as a Regional Director of Operations for Sagora Senior Living’s home office. She has been with Sagora for two years, holding roles such as Executive Director and Executive Director Specialist before being promoted in July. Her military career set the foundation for a successful career in senior living that has spanned more than ten years.
Valerie T. served in the Marine Corps from 2013-2021, working in the communications field with a specialization in Information Technology. Her time in the Marines set the foundation for her career, gave her stability and lifelong friendships. Valerie has been an IT Support Analyst with Sagora Senior Living since August.
Bristol Park at Cleburne Assisted Living & Memory Care
Allen M. served in the Army in the early 1950s, during the Korean War. He worked as a clerk.
Ernest S. served in the Air Force and Army as a company clerk.
Robert B. was a helicopter maintenance supervisor and an infantryman in the Army, serving from 1961-1968.
Bobby W. was an officer in the Army. During his time in the military, he achieved the rank of Colonel.
Jerry G. was in the Army for 10 years, where he worked in missile radar maintenance.
Heritage Place Assisted Living & Memory Care
Kenneth S. served in the Army from 1961-1967, working with artillery and missiles. He says he learned how to assemble and dissemble rifles and enjoyed time spent on the firing range.
Rio Terra Senior Living
Vladimir P. served in the Army from 1954-1977, reaching the rank of Colonel. He was dual-rated in both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, also boasting experience in artillery. He won awards like the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, Air Medal with four clusters, General Staff Badge and Legion of Merit. “Success occurs when preparation meets opportunity,” he says.
The Brennity at Fairhope Senior Living
Wally S. served in the Navy from 1942-1945, working as a signalman for submarines. Following his discharge, he worked as a city councilman and a volunteer firefighter. He was recently honored by the city of Loxley, his home since 1985.
Aberdeen Heights Assisted Living
Shelby M. served in the Army from 1949-1977, working his way from an artillery gunner to a maintenance officer on guided missile systems. “My service was a good portion of my life,” he said. “It taught me patience, endurance, self-confidence and more.”
Aberdeen Tulsa Memory Care
Oscar H. served in the US Army from 1956-1958, working as a medic. He enjoyed serving under his commanding officer, a lieutenant, and graduating from basic training. “The experience showed me I could help people in hard times, and it taught me responsibility,” he says.
Lee C. served in the Air Force from 1958-1963, working as a supply management specialist. His service exposed him to new ideas, new ways of thinking and even new foods! “Being in the service made me want to make a real difference in the world by helping to ensure democracy and civil rights are available to everyone.”