On Wednesday, the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton filled its main function hall with families, veterans, and community members to commemorate Veterans Day. The event, organized by the home’s staff, underscored the facility’s year‑round commitment to honoring those who have worn the uniform.
Commandant emphasizes the home’s mission
“At the New Hampshire Veterans Home, honoring veterans is not just something we do one day a year. It’s the heart of our mission, and it’s reflected in everything we do. The veterans are the story. They are who we are, and they make this home a home,” said Kimberly MacKay, commandant of the home. She added that the ceremony provides a chance for the public to pause and thank veterans for their service, a duty undertaken by less than one percent of the population.
Veterans share personal reflections
Vietnam‑era veteran Stephen Sayewich, who served in the United States Air Force, spoke about the personal weight of his experience. “I never told anybody, and I mean this. I never told anybody what I did, because that was part of the ethos,” he said, noting that many veterans carry both visible and invisible wounds.
Sayewich also reflected on the ongoing journey of returning home. “The idea of coming home; I still haven’t fully come home, and that is my truth,” he said. “I think if you look at the Vietnam era, a big thing is about coming home. I’ve never come home totally.”
State archivist acknowledges the nation’s debt
New Hampshire State Archivist Ashley Miller addressed the crowd, acknowledging the nation’s profound gratitude. “We cannot fully repay the debt we owe you. We cannot undo the hardships you endured or adequately express the appreciation that generations of Americans feel for your service, but we can make sure you know your service mattered,” she said.
Community support and future outlook
The gathering highlighted the strong community ties that sustain the veterans home. Local volunteers, families of veterans, and civic leaders contributed time and resources, reinforcing the home’s role as a place of refuge and remembrance.
As the ceremony concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose to support veterans throughout the year, not just on Veterans Day. The home’s staff reiterated their commitment to providing quality care, honoring traditions, and fostering an environment where veterans feel truly at home.
About the New Hampshire Veterans Home
The New Hampshire Veterans Home, located in Tilton, offers long‑term care, skilled nursing, and independent living options for veterans and their families. Founded in 1889, the facility remains a cornerstone of veteran services in the Granite State, guided by a mission to preserve the dignity and legacy of those who served.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
