The Veterans Hospital in Batavia provides medical services for men and women who have proudly served the nation in times of war and conflicts. There are generally about 90 patients hospitalized there; it is a long and lonely existence for these veterans.

On December 4, members of Noone Post 954 and the Auxiliary Unit visited the hospital to bring an evening of holiday cheer to their comrades. The members visit each and every patient giving words of cheer and thanks for their service. As a token of appreciation each is given a packet of "homemade" cookies, soda pop, a Christmas card and a canteen book that can be used to make personal purchases at the PX.

This year, the choir of the Ogden Baptist Church under the direction of Sue Oechale, joined the Noone Units to provide a festive array of Christmas carols as the group visited every ward in the hospital. The combined program was truly appreciated by the patients as measured by their smiles, thanks and even a few tears. To a person, the hospital staff expressed their gratitude that so many people willingly took time from their busy schedules to provide an evening of cheer for forgotten and lonely veterans that made so many sacrifices to preserve this great nation.

Under their "Community Service Program," Harvey C. Noone Post and Auxiliary make four visitations a year. It has been a tradition for nearly 50 years.