When Oscar was 18, he had two choices: become a sharecropper or join the military. He enlisted in the Navy and became a Seaman First Class during WWII. Oscar rarely spoke about what it was like to serve during segregation; his own children knew very little about his military service. The “We Honor Veterans” program helped change that.
MJHS Hospice worked with the Bronx native’s devoted family, friends and a retired Army officer to create an uplifting and patriotic celebration that honored the former sailor for his service to this country and thanked him for helping pave the way for future generations of soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines.
The event was made possible because Kati, the hospice social worker, had initially made a respectful inquiry about Oscar’s service, was a compassionate listener and then gratefully acknowledged Oscar’s contributions.
The inspiring gathering included a riveting conversation between Oscar and the Army major (retired), a rousing rendition of “Anchors Aweigh” by Ling, his music therapist, and a solo of “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Marilyn, who’s a family friend and MJHS Hospice nurse.
