American Legion issued the following announcement on Jan. 27.
Nearly 200 residents of the Indiana Veterans Home received a much-needed entertainment gift, thanks to a donation by the Department of Indiana via an American Legion Operation Comfort Warriors (OCW) grant.
Department Commander Allen Connelly presented nine smart TVs on Jan. 24, that will be installed in the common areas in buildings throughout the sprawling campus in West Lafayette.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to participate in this,” Connelly said. “Anything we can do to make life more pleasant for these veterans is what we like to do.”
Outside Ernie Pyle Hall, Connelly expressed his gratitude to the residents of the Indiana Veterans Home (IVH).
“We’ve always cherished the relationship we’ve had with IVH over the years,” he said. “It’s a pleasure to present this gift today. I hope they will be enjoyed by the veterans here. We appreciate their dedication and sacrifice that kept our nation strong. The American Legion will always be here for you.”
OCW provides wounded warriors and veterans with items that are not covered by government agencies. In addition to entertainment opportunities, previous donations have included clothing for burn victims, rehabilitation gear like recumbent bicycles and much more. To assist the funding for future donations, visit www.legion.org/donate.
During his time as national commander, James Koutz of Indiana raised more than $1.1 million for OCW and reinvigorated the program.
“Jimmy has really spearheaded the continuation of that mission,” Connelly said. “Indiana is one of the larger donors to this program. It’s an honor to continue the mission.”
Tom Smith, who served in the Indiana National Guard, is the community service director at IVH. He said the donation means that all of the 185 residents will be able watch TV in the lounges at any time of day.
“Our TVs were really old,” he said. “These came at a great time because we are one down. And a new one will go up today.”
Original source can be found here.
Source: American Legion
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