WWII veteran is on the receiving end of ‘Operation Hotel Bravo’
PRESS RELEASE
November 3, 2023
Manchester , NH — Veteran Nelson Hutchings arrived on time for his scheduled doctor’s appointment but was quickly diverted to a different location as the logistical planning of the operation was underway.
Utilizing disinformation techniques, the operation called for varied movements from entering the facility to a new location for Hutchings with the assistance of his family members, who were on the frontlines for this operation.
“This patient engagement is a vital part of my day,” shared VA Manchester Medical Center Director Kevin Forrest. “It is an opportunity to honor and thank World War II Veteran Hutchings for his military service and acknowledge a significant milestone—his 100th birthday.”
Hutchings received a surprise when it was not his doctor who greeted him, but the medical center director. Forrest shared with Hutchings, he had received a personal letter and coin from VA Secretary Denis McDonough for his centenarian birthday honors.
Engaging in conversation, Forrest and Hutchings shared their military experiences and a life-long passion both have in common, hockey. Hutchings was recently inducted into the New Hampshire Legends Hockey Hall of Fame for many years of volunteer work supporting the Rochester Ice Rink Men’s Hockey League.
Hutchings and his family members expressed gratitude for the birthday celebration and moved forward with Operation Hotel Bravo navigating to Hutchings’ medical appointment.
“We are here to serve Veterans, and it is our honor to provide health care to Veteran Hutchings for good health and in this instance, a bit of cheer too,” said Forrest.
Operation Hotel Bravo—for Happy Birthday—is mission success.
Lori Flynn, Public Affairs Officer
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