ATLANTA, Mich. – The Compassus program serving Northern Michigan, in partnership with the Honor Flight Network, will honor local veteran Alfred Block for his military service with a trip to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, May 23, where he will visit national monuments and memorials dedicated to his service and sacrifices.
“The selfless, courageous service of our veterans and their colorful memories of defending our nation should be treasured, and Compassus is thankful for the opportunity to show appreciation for individuals like Alfred who are among our community’s most valuable members,” said Chad Pashak, executive director of Compassus – Northern Michigan. “Veterans deserve a respectful tribute, such as the Honor Flight, to recognize their service and the meaning of that service to their life.”
Alfred Block, originally from Saginaw, Michigan, began his military service in June 1944. A private first class in the 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Division, Block specialized as a heavy machine gunner. At the age of 20 he was wounded after a tank assault during the Battle of the Bulge and was honorably discharged from the Army.
For his bravery and service he was awarded multiple ribbons and awards, including two Bronze Stars, the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Commemorative War Cross and Grand Cross of Homage, as well as the Purple Heart. His unit was also given the Croix de Guerre for its part in liberating France as a result of the Battle of the Bulge.
“This will be a very special experience for Alfred, one that will remain with him for the rest of his life,” said Pashak. “We are grateful to the Honor Flight Network for giving our veteran patients and all veterans the opportunity to see the World War II Memorial in our nation’s capital at no cost. For many veterans, this trip is just a dream, but they are helping to make it a reality.”
For more information about the Honor Flight Network, visit honorflight.org.
For information about Compassus – Northern Michigan, please visit compassus.com/northern or call 989-785-3000.
About Compassus
Compassus provides a continuum of home-based services including home health, infusion therapy, palliative and hospice care. Nearly 6,000 colleagues in 200 locations and 30 states provide high-quality care and manage patients’ advanced illnesses in partnership with health systems and long-term care partners. The Compassus philosophy, Care for who I am, reflects its unique care delivery model, which focuses on each person as an individual as well as a patient, to improve their quality of life in a meaningful way.
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