In the heart of Western North Carolina, on February 9, 2024, a significant milestone was reached as the Western North Carolina Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (WNC-MOAA) and Four Seasons Hospice celebrated their 1000th We Honor Veterans pinning ceremony. The occasion was marked by the distinguished presence of current WNC-MOAA Chapter President Steve Watkins, alongside two Past Presidents, Spence Campbell, and Donna Culp. Together, Four Seasons and WNC-MOAA embarked on a mission that began in November 2014 – a mission to honor and express gratitude to veterans in hospice care, recognizing their service and sacrifice. This special ceremony took place at the American Legion Hall in Hendersonville, NC where the spotlight shone on local veteran SGT Bill Troutman, surrounded by his friends and family.

The We Honor Veterans program, in collaboration with Four Seasons Hospice, has been a cornerstone of WNC-MOAA's commitment to giving back to those who have selflessly served their country. Since its inception, the program has focused on organizing special pinning ceremonies, creating poignant moments of acknowledgment and appreciation for veterans in hospice care. These ceremonies go beyond mere gestures; they serve as a tangible expression of gratitude, recognizing the immense contributions and sacrifices made by these heroes.

Current Chapter President Steve Watkins, along with Past Presidents Spence Campbell and Donna Culp, has exemplified WNC-MOAA’s steadfast dedication to honoring veterans throughout their terms. Their involvement in the 1000th ceremony underscores the enduring commitment of WNC-MOAA to creating a lasting impact in the lives of veterans.

On that memorable day, the spotlight fell on Bill Troutman, a local Hendersonville veteran, as Elaine, Bill’s wife, led a heartfelt ceremony in his honor. The American Legion Hall in Hendersonville became a venue not only for the ceremony but also a gathering of community members, friends, and family who came together to pay tribute to Bill's service. It was a momentous occasion filled with gratitude, camaraderie, and a deep sense of appreciation for a local hero.

The attendance of many friends and family members at Bill Troutman's ceremony highlighted the strong sense of community support that these events foster. Beyond the symbolic pinning ceremonies, Four Seasons & WNC-MOAA have successfully created a network of appreciation, ensuring that veterans in hospice care are surrounded by the warmth and acknowledgment they deserve.

As Four Seasons & WNC-MOAA celebrated its 1000th We Honor Veterans ceremony, it marked not just a numerical milestone but a testament to the enduring spirit of gratitude and service. The dedication of leaders like John Knapp, the local We Honor Veterans program coordinator, Steve Watkins, Spence Campbell, and Donna Culp, coupled with the unwavering support of the community, reinforces the importance of recognizing and honoring our veterans. In every pinning ceremony, WNC-MOAA continues to weave a tapestry of appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who have served, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of veterans in Western North Carolina.