A group of veterans at a senior living facility in Palmerton all at one time or another stood up when our nation called them to serve.

For their heroic efforts, those men were heralded as part of the annual Veterans Day ceremony held at The Palmerton on Monday afternoon.

Andrea Humanick, community enrichment director for The Palmerton, explained they were there “to honor and pay tribute to all of our servicemen and women, to remember their achievements, their courage and dedication, and to say thank you for their sacrifices.”

“The service members we honor today came from all walks of life, but they all shared the same fundamental qualities,” Humanick said. “They possessed courage, pride, determination, selflessness, and dedication to duty and our country ... all the qualities needed to serve a cause larger than one’s self.

“We are exceptionally proud of our veterans here at The Palmerton. No words can describe the heartfelt gratitude we have for them.”

Humanick then introduced chaplain Tom Hamilton from Compassus Hospice, who opened the ceremony with a prayer; and Resa Hall, from the office of state Rep. Doyle Heffley.

Hall thanked all the veterans for their service, and presented them with certificates.

Humanick then welcomed William Gallagher and Bruce Frisch, members of the Palmerton United Veterans Organization.

Gallagher, who served in the Army, noted that both his father and father-in law served in the military.

He decided to join the Palmerton organization, where everyone works together in participating in parades and ceremonies.

“That’s what we do,” Gallagher said. “Thank you for your service.”

Frisch, who served in the Navy, said he also comes from a family with a proud military background.

“It was a great experience doing this for my country, family and friends,” Frisch said. “I’m honored to be here to honor my fellow veterans.”

Baron Cebrosky served in the Army and recounted several stories from his time in the military.

“I’m thankful that I had the opportunity to serve our country,” Cebrosky said.

Humanick said that it wasn’t until 1954, after World War II and the Korean War, that Armistice Day was renamed “Veterans Day” to honor all veterans who served our country in war and defended our freedom.

“Those men and women were ordinary people, until they heard the call of duty and answered it,” she said. “They left their families and their homes. Not for recognition or fame, or even the honor we bestow upon them today. They fought to protect our country, to maintain our way of life.”

Humanick recognized the veterans from The Palmerton, and said each of them would be presented with a handmade gift.

Veterans living at The Palmerton include: Ronald Resikoff, Navy; Ralph Perez, Army; Phillip Rockstein, Army; Steven Lazorik, Army; Todd Young, Army; Donald Kuntz, Navy; Harry Bomberger, Navy; Leon Borger, Army; Ralph Green, Army; Lester Derhammer, Army; and Louis Bronko, Army.

Bomberger said he was appreciative of the ceremony.

“It’s an honor,” Bomberger said.

After an armed forces medley, Humanick wrapped up the program.

“Our battles, our victories, and indeed, our way of life are owed not to great moments or important dates,” she said. “They are owed to the actions and sacrifices these men and women made to protect our nation.

“America is the country she is because of her heroes, past and present. People who put the nation’s interest above all self interest, who put patriotism above profit, and who put love of country above love of self.

“Our veterans made that conscious choice to live a life of sacrifice and service for the greater cause, and for America, that has made all the difference.”

Those in attendance were then invited to light refreshments along with a patriotic musical selection.