Boise residents gathered at the Idaho State Veterans Home on Wednesday to honor the men and women who have served our nation. The ceremony, held on Veterans Day, highlighted both the sacrifices of past service members and the ongoing contributions of community volunteers.
Veterans and families share gratitude
Former Navy sailor Bill Piper, who served from 1963 to 1967 and spent much of his time overseas in Southeast Asia, said the event reminded him that the country still acknowledges the sacrifices of those who protected it. “It means that the country itself is acknowledging the people who served and protected the country. That’s what it means to me. We’re being acknowledged,” Piper told attendees.
Volunteers keep the home thriving
Among those recognized were volunteers who continue to give back to the veterans. Meridian resident London Talbot, whose grandfather was a medivac pilot in Vietnam, said his family’s legacy inspired him to help. Talbot used social media to recruit volunteers when the home’s canteen faced possible closure, ensuring veterans could still enjoy hot meals.
“I feel like the least we can do is give back to the veterans and give some of our time to people who… risked it all for us,” Talbot said.
Volunteer force supports daily life
Home administrator Rick Holloway reported that roughly 300 volunteers assist the facility. Their duties range from one‑on‑one visits with residents to helping with activities, dining services, gardening, and operating the canteen. The strong volunteer network is a testament to Boise’s community spirit and commitment to caring for those who served.
Construction of a new, larger home advances
While veterans were honored, the future of the Idaho State Veterans Home was also on display. Construction crews have completed the foundation and first‑floor slab, and concrete walls are now rising. Steel girders are being installed in preparation for the second floor.
Holloway said the goal is to begin moving residents into the new building around August 2028. The expanded facility will accommodate 122 residents, up from roughly 80, and will feature private rooms and bathrooms, giving each veteran a place they can truly call their own.
“We already have residents picking out their rooms,” Holloway noted. “It’ll be very nice to have private rooms, private bathrooms… and a place they can call their own.”
Future plans and how to help
Once the new home is fully occupied, the existing building will be demolished and replaced with a parking lot to serve the expanded campus. The Idaho State Veterans Home continues to rely on community volunteers for a variety of tasks, and those interested can contact the volunteer program at 208‑780‑1700 or via email at [email protected].
The ceremony underscored a shared belief in Boise: honoring those who served is the least we can do, and giving our time and support is a vital part of that gratitude.
Original reporting: KIVI Idaho News 6 Boise metro (local) — read the source article.
