Flag Dedication at TPH

On Friday, May 22, Turning Point House (TPH) hosted its first annual Flag Dedication in honor of Memorial Day. Matt Rzepka, Van Driver at TPH, coordinated the event to “honor our past and present Veterans that served so we can enjoy our freedom.” Matt is a Veteran himself and fought in the Vietnam War. He understands the sacrifices members of the armed forces have made for our country.

Matt invited members of the Newell Faulkner American Legion from Post 880 in Eden, New York to help in the dedication. After Matt’s opening remarks, Commander James Blidy gave a presentation on the meaning of Memorial Day. Music was played throughout the dedication including the National Anthem and “America the Beautiful.” Matt assisted in raising the flag with two Turning Point House residents, which was followed by a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps.

Picnic lunch was served, and residents, staff, and guests played basketball and horseshoes together after the observance. For some residents, this was their first sober Memorial Day, and having such a poignant ceremony that reminded everyone about the meaning behind the holiday was very moving.