Northern Illinois Hospice was honored to host a We Honor Veterans ceremony for our patient Charles “Chuck” Simmonds. With the help of his son and daughter-in-law, Chuck joined friends and family at the Field of Honor Veterans Memorial in Loves Park to celebrate his military service. The ceremony included an honor guard, provided by the Disabled Veterans of America; the colors presented by the VFW; bagpipe patriotic concert; and the pinning ceremony provided by Northern Illinois Hospice.

Chuck enlisted in the Army on February 5, 1954. While in the service, he joined the Airborne Jump School at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He served with the 25th Infantry Div., 101st Airborne Div., and the 509th Airborne with the 8th Div. While with the Divisions, he made 50 parachute jumps.

Chuck was proud of his country. He served as a Post Commander of the American Legion #102 and was active in the VFW, American Legion, and DAV Ceremonial Honor Guard. Chuck spent many hours placing American flags on graves at the Rulo Cemetery on Memorial Day and raising flags on special days and at military funerals.

Chuck died with the care and support of Northern Illinois Hospice on November 1. We honor Chuck and all who served our country.

Northern Illinois Hospice is a proud partner of We Honor Veterans, a program in collaboration with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Photo: Former Northern Illinois Hospice patient Charles “Chuck” Simmonds was recognized for his service during a pinning ceremony in August.