Veterans honored at Rosecrance event

Rosecrance staff members and adult patients in treatment observed Veterans Day with a ceremony at the Harrison Adult Treatment Center. The event featured comments by a decorated veteran of the war in Iraq who came to Rosecrance for treatment.

Nick M. suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and alcoholism. The Purple Heart recipient was one of the first patients to be treated through Rosecrance’s new program for individuals with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. He spoke of his pride in having been able to serve our country and his gratitude for being able to access recovery at Rosecrance. Nick, who successfully completed treatment, is trying to put his life back together while he lives in a Rosecrance recovery home.

Leading the ceremony was counselor Diana Rudeen, a dedicated member of the VFW Ladies’ Auxiliary who is in line to be the organization’s state president. Boy Scout Troop 141 presented the colors and, also, demonstrated the proper way to fold a US. flag in the traditional 13-step triangular shape.

The ceremony included recognition of about a half-dozen patients who are veterans of the U.S. military and dozens of staffers and their loved ones who have served.

Rosecrance employees raised funds from within their ranks to help build the new inpatient treatment unit where veterans receive priority admission. The program opened in February 2011.

Rosecrance President/CEO Philip Eaton, moved to tears by the ceremony, thanked staff and patients who served in the military. He reminded all present of the many blessings we have living in a free country. This is the second year Rosecrance has held a special Veterans Day event.