The Birmingham Health Center in Derby honored veterans that reside at the facility with the opening of the Hall of Heroes with a mural by Annette Dostale on Dec. 7th, 2012.
The ceremony was attended by Bill Purcell, president of the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce and Mayor Anthony Staffieri.
Purcell reflected on the tragic loss of American lives on Pearl Harbor Day and discussed the contributions made by the “greatest generation,” among them his father and many Birmingham resident veterans, in preserving the freedoms that we enjoy today.
Mayor Anthony Staffieri, a Purple Heart recipient, agreed with Purcell and spoke about his service in the Vietnam War.
Staffieri reminisced about his own experiences in the military and encouraged veterans to be open up about their service. “I hope veterans speak to their children and grandchildren and share their stories, so no one ever forgets the sacrifices that were made for our freedom,” Staffieri said.
As the only facility in the Greater Valley area with associations to the Veterans’ Administration, the facility desired to find a meaningful way to honor each veteran who has served in the military. To mural creator Annette Dostale, that meant incorporating a bald eagle – symbol of United States since 1782- known for its strength and majestic looks.
The emblem was incorporated with the American flag in honor of the veterans. The artwork was completed in six months which features 29 biographies of veterans from five branches of the military who fought in World War II, the Korean or Vietnam War.
The director of admissions, Shirley Dominguez oversaw the project and plans to continue to add to the hall until every veteran is featured.
“It is our small way to thank them for the sacrifices that they made and for their service to our country,” said Dominguez. “It is truly our honor to serve them here at Birmingham.”
Group picture from left to right: Bill Purcell – Greater Valley Chamber President; Kate Gubbiotti – Administrator of Birmingham Health Center; Santiago Santos – Resident of Birmingham Health Center and Veteran of the Vietnam War; Shirley Dominguez – Director of Admissions; and Derby Mayor Tony Staffieri.