A Time to Remember History That Should Never Be Forgotten!
A Time to Remember
History That Should Never Be Forgotten!
Nearly 74 years ago young men and women experienced a morning that they would never forget. Its memory echoes to this very day in their thoughts and dreams. It is a memory that should never be forgotten, rather handed down from one generation to another.
That memory began in the Hawaiian Islands, on Oahu to be exact. Hickam Field was a new air field. The military men and women were young and excited to be serving their country. It was a time of B-18’s, B-12’s and maybe some P-26 airplanes. There was talk of war in the air. Hickam Field was just beginning to come into its own as an airbase.
In Oahu in those days there was a saying that “every day in Oahu was like Sunday on the farm.” On a Sunday morning on December 7th, 1941 just after breakfast that saying was quickly forgotten and our world changed forever. That change began in Oahu when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. Thousands lost their lives while men and women stood helplessly by and watched in horror at the events unfolding. It is a memory that needs to be shared while the last of the living survivors of that fateful day are here to tell the story.
Allegro and Helmwood Health Care realize the importance of that fateful morning where thousands lost their lives causing America to go to war. That is why we are honored to announce that author Durward B. Swanson, WWII Hero, USAF Pearl Harbor Hickam Fields oldest living survivor, and Battle of Midway survivor will be speaking on WWII and his experiences, and his new book “The Life of a Country Boy, His Service to His country During World War II.” We invite the public to join us to hear Durward speak of the war, to hear memories of a generation that is fading into the sunset. Jessie Higa, WWII Pearl Harbor Historian, describes Durward as a living American treasure that is “one of a kind.” His book is a legacy for generations to come. On September 18th at 4:00 p.m. Durward B. Swanson will be speaking at Allegro, telling the stories of Pearl Harbor Hickam Field and being shot down in the “Battle of Midway.” After his talk Allegro will host a book signing with Durward who will have his book for sale in our lobby.
While attending our event, please take a few minutes to view our photography exhibit on the history of war with renowned war photographer Robert Griffin, and see one of the largest photography exhibits on display in our area. Chat with Hope, who is Allegro’s own “Rosey the Riveter.” Find out what it was like for a woman in the military during WWII. Speak with Allegro’s Josette and hear the stories of what it was like to be a young civilian in Normandie, France during the D Day Invasion. Hear the stories of bullets whizzing through the air over her head. Ask her about the tense moments in the days before the battle began. This is your chance to hear those stories as never told before!
After the book signing we will take you on a musical “Trip Down Memory Lane” with entertainer Patrick Calvert at our free concert. Information booths will be available with information for our military and veterans. Tour the classic cars, at our car show and join us for some great food too! This event is free and open to the public. We will be accepting donations for USA Cares supporting our veterans and active duty service members. Our event opens at 4:00 p.m. and ends at 8:00 p.m. This event is rain or shine. Indoor accommodations are available should it rain. Bring your lawn chairs for the concert. Seating is on a first come, first serve basis. The concert and car show will be held on the grounds at Allegro and Helmwood HealthCare. On 9/18/15 there will be a shuttle bus running to and from (every 20 minutes) the parking lot at Save A Lot to Allegro beginning at 3:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Allegro is located at 108 Diecks Drive, and Helmwood HealthCare is located at 106 Diecks Drive, Elizabethtown, KY. Events will take place between both buildings. For more information call Allegro at (270) 765-4414.
About Allegro
Allegro specializes in the development and management of luxury senior living communities. They currently operate nine communities throughout Florida and Kentucky, with a home office in St. Louis, Missouri. They specialize in independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. Allegro provides seniors with services and amenities to live an inspired life. More information on Allegro can be found at www.allegroliving.com.
For more information, contact:
Carol Sue Galloway
Allegro
(270) 765-4414
cgalloway [at] allegroliving.com
Greg Skaggs from Veterans Financial, Inc. will be available at the event to answer questions about the VA’s Aid and Attendance benefit to help supplement the cost of assisted living or home care services.
