Music brings cheer to Soldiers' Home

All it took was some cookies, apple cider and a room filled with music to get dozens of local veterans smiling Saturday afternoon at the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke.

Military men and women who served in the Korean War and World War II were beyond delighted to be visited by a local pipe and drum band this weekend.

In fact, you could tell they were truly enjoying their Saturday for a change just by looking at their hands and feet tapping away during the show.

Every month the Knights of Columbus of Belchertown, along with the Archbishop Williams Assembly Forth Degree sponsors some type of fun activity for the veterans to thank them for all they've given to our country.

This month it was the Celtic Thunder Pipe and Drum Corps at the center of all the attention.

One 98-year-old veteran there had actually enlisted in the U.S. Army long before World War II had even begun.

George Chenevert was honored to be named ‘drum major’ at the uplifting musical event.

Chenevert says, “Not only that, it brought me back home because my wife was Scottish. Of course, I lost her three years ago… and they've got nice music and the people were very respectful. You can't ask for a better group.”

Event organizer Tom Barry is with the Knights of Columbus of Belchertown. Barry says, “It’s probably one of the most self-rewarding things that anyone could ever do, coming over here, and giving back to the veterans who gave so much to our country.”

One resident explains why events like this remind him that moving into the Soldiers’ Home was a great ‘life decision.’

Ted Wisnoski says, “My daughter sent me out to all these fancy [retirement] places, you know, and I couldn't take it! But on the way back, I looked up and I saw this place. This is where I decided I wanted to be, and boy am I glad. This is just wonderful.”

Some of the veterans say they love the Soldiers’ Home not only for the unique events, but for the camaraderie with their fellow servicemen and women.