On March 22, I had the privilege of being my brother’s designated volunteer to help him unpack and settle in as he transitioned from the old Maine Veterans Home on Cony Road over to the brand-new veterans home at 35 Heroes Way here in Augusta. This whole project was 10 years in the making, but the wait was well worth it! Under the very skillful guidance of Jake Anderson, administrator of the veterans home, he and his very dedicated staff moved 110 veterans that day.

This new facility has been constructed to give our veterans and their caregivers more room, more options for activities, all large private rooms with each room having an accessible bathroom, and no more than 12 residents in a neighborhood with their own kitchen, chef, dining room, living and laundry room. Everyone can access the “storefronts” on Main Street, including a barber shop, veterans club, movie theater, chapel, bistro, bank, and even a play area for visiting young grandchildren.

I walked out that evening with one of the staff personnel. Though tired, she was on a high from this exciting day. Her comment was, as I congratulated her on such a smooth, successful move, “It was truly a day of respect for all these veterans who so deserved this home as a thank you for their years of service to our country.”

For my brother, who waited eight years for this wonderful home, my family and I are extremely grateful we live in this state where their motto is “Caring for those who served” and they do it so well.

Linda Findlay

Winthrop