ORANGE, NJ — On Wednesday, Nov. 11, Church of the Epiphany and Christ Church, in partnership with the RSVP Center of Essex and Hudson Counties, recognized veterans who have continued their service to America as Senior Corps volunteers.
The event, in the soup kitchen in Orange, recognized Allan Trent, who was in the US Army 101st Airborne Division. He was infantry as well as support. Trent is now leading a new program teaching a writing workshop as an RSVP volunteer at the church each Tuesday.
The recognition event in Orange is one of nearly 200 recognition ceremonies featuring National Veteran Corps pin presentations taking place across the country throughout the month of November. Orange Fire Capt. Spearman and Orange Fire Director Kenneth A. Douglas, presented Trent with a plaque from the city of Orange Township recognizing his service to the country. Also at the event were Father Joseph A. Harmon from the Church of the Epiphany and Christ Church, RSVP Volunteer Leader at the church Janet Parker and RSVP Director Stephanie Grove.
Grove stated, “This was an exciting event to appreciate our veterans who have already done so much for our country. Mr. Trent continues to show his gratitude for his community through volunteering. I was really honored to be part of this event.”
Last year, national service members served more than 780,000 veterans and military members in VA clinics and hospitals, veteran service organizations, and at nonprofits and public agencies. In addition, more than 23,000 veterans served in their local communities applying leadership abilities and skills acquired during their military service through Catholic Charities USA, Habitat for Humanity, Teach For America, and multiple conservation corps programs, including those that have helped combat wildfires in the Western United States.
“Our commitment to veterans and their families is deep. National service gives our heroes a new mission on the homefront, a pathway to opportunity, and a better transition to civilian life,” said Wendy Spencer, chief executive officer of the Corporation for National and Community Service. “This month is an opportunity to salute those who are serving our country again, while bringing attention to the critical work being done by veterans-focused national service programs.”
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