**Celebrating Heroes at MacKenzie Place – Colorado Springs**

At MacKenzie Place – Colorado Springs, wellness evolves beyond simple physical activity, incorporating a life filled with purpose, appreciation, and connection. This principle is manifested in our PrimeFit Wellness™ program, which aids residents in leading meaningful and vibrant lives. This fall, three of our residents, Vern Swim, Shirley Swim, and James Butts, demonstrated this purpose by participating in Honor Flight of Southern Colorado’s Mission 21, joining 55 other veterans on a poignant journey to Washington, D.C.

**An Honorary Journey**

The Honor Flight program provides veterans with an all-expenses-covered chance to visit national memorials built in their recognition. On October 2, 58 veterans—51 from the Vietnam War, six from the Korean War, and one from World War II—departed from Colorado Springs for a three-day journey of remembrance and contemplation. Among them were Vern and Shirley Swim, both distinguished Army veterans, and James Butts, who served during the Korean War. Vern’s 24 years as an Army Chaplain and Shirley’s role as an Army Nurse illuminate the often-overlooked contributions of women in service, alongside the bravery of all veterans.

**“Honor, Honor, Honor in All We Did.”**

Vern conveyed his life-changing experiences in a thoughtful letter after returning, describing the journey as “the most fascinating, educational, and emotional trip we have ever undertaken.” He noted that the trip provided healing for veterans carrying silent scars for years. Vern’s visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was deeply personal, stating, “I found the name of a close friend who was killed in Vietnam.” This heartfelt pilgrimage highlighted a collective feeling—very few could hold back their tears.

The veterans visited the World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and Vietnam Wall, accompanied by a remarkable 99-year-old World War II veteran, who navigated the journey with merely a walking stick, demonstrating sharp awareness. Vern underlined that the trip’s essence was honor, reflecting on the lack of acknowledgment received upon returning from Vietnam and asserting that this program was all about “Honor, Honor, Honor in everything we do.” Each veteran received meaningful pins with the phrases, “It’s never too late. Welcome home!” and “Your service. Our Freedom!”—representing a late yet significant honor.

**An Unforgettable Homecoming**

The Honor Flight commenced with an uplifting sendoff from The Colorado Springs Christian School. “The street was filled with people and American flags cheering for us,” Vern recounted, deeply moved by the sight of children fervently waving flags and chanting “USA,” which brought tears of gratitude to his eyes.

Accompanied by police from Colorado Springs to Denver, with roads cleared and lights flashing, the veterans enjoyed the recognition and appreciation that many had missed upon their initial return from service. Vern declared, “Now that is what you truly call special and honored!” Their return culminated with a touching “Mail Call,” presenting letters from loved ones and community members, highlighting the emotional connection yearned for during deployment.

**Thriving Through Purpose and Connection**

Honoring Vern, Shirley, and James embodies the essence of MacKenzie Place’s PrimeFit Wellness™ philosophy—living with strength, gratitude, and community connection. PrimeFit Wellness™ inspires residents to fully engage physically, socially, and emotionally through experiences that nurture community and purpose. For Vern, Shirley, and James, their Honor Flight experience personified this philosophy, urging all veterans to embrace this honor.

**Enduring Gratitude**

We honor our residents who reflect the bravery and community spirit of MacKenzie Place – Colorado Springs. Vern’s message to fellow veterans to seize the opportunity afforded by the Honor Flight: “Sign up and be HONORED,” resonates strongly. Veterans and their families are invited to visit honorflightsoco.net for more information. At MacKenzie Place, we are committed to honoring the past, valuing the present, and continuously creating opportunities for our residents to flourish.