CDCE Hosts Third Annual Inpatient Parade

CDCE hosted their third Inpatient Parade on November 12, 2024 in Muskogee, OK. 

Guest judges included Mr. Derek Reed Muskogee Deputy Mayor and Mr. Nathan Pattison VP Sales & Marketing for Tedford Insurance.

17 services participated this year’s event showcasing floats, costumes, skits and talents.  Further because of our amazing donors and Veteran’s organizations The Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) was able to pass out an array of donations, treats, medals, flags, cards sent from elementary schools and other items to all Veterans in our hospital. 

CDCE Chief Candice Jordan states “This is an amazing event, which was created in 2019 by a charismatic woman who took the time to personally thank a Veteran for his service while inpatient on Veterans Day.  When visiting Mrs. Shantel McJunkins inquired what could make the Veterans stay with Eastern Oklahoma better, his reply was simple he wished he could be at the Veterans Day parade. This simple interaction did not fall upon deaf ears, but that of a caring woman who made his wish a reality. Each year CDCE is trying to involve more staff and more community partners for this unique celebration of Veterans within our health care system. This is just one of the many ways we put Veterans first at Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System.“  

In response to the parade and the delight on Veterans faces found all around the medical center Community partner Nathan Pattison stated "It was a tremendous honor to serve as a judge for the Veterans Day Inpatient Parade at Jack C. Montgomery VAMC & CDCE. This event is truly special, bringing the parade directly to those who’ve served our country and may otherwise not be able to experience it. Witnessing the creativity, camaraderie, and joy it sparked among the veterans and staff was incredibly moving. Moments like these remind us of the importance of honoring our heroes and the sacrifices they've made. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to participate and represent Tedford Insurance in celebrating these remarkable individuals."

We truly appreciate everyone’s support. If you would like to donate or volunteer with Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System please reach out to CDCE at VHAMUS_VOLUNTARY_SERVICES@va.gov.  In December CDCE will host a Veteran’s Angel Tree, meals for Veterans without food or families, a clothing drive and more. CDCE would love to involve you, so please reach out today!