Highlands at Wyomissing program honors WWII veterans
The Highlands at Wyomissing, a premier Life Plan Community in Berks County, hosted its annual Memorial Day Program on May 24.
This year’s event paid tribute to the senior residents of the Highlands who are World War II veterans and commemorated the 80th anniversary of D-Day, honoring the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.
The program was organized by Highlands residents led by Barbara Witman, who has lived there since 2018.
The program featured guest speaker Tyler Boland, a 20-year-old junior at Albright College in Reading who has dedicated himself to documenting the stories of WWII veterans.
Boland has interviewed and recorded the stories of nearly 200 WWII veterans across Pennsylvania and other states. He shared his passion and brought his restored WWII Jeep for attendees to view.
Attendees also witnessed the recognition of the Highlands’s WWII veteran residents, Milton Ripple, Betty O’Connell, Norman Wilikofsky and Paul Lilienthal. The performance of “Taps,” a call traditionally sounded at military ceremonies and funerals, by resident Rick Wilson and his grandson provided a touching conclusion to the event.
In addition to the recognition of The Highlands’s veteran residents, the program also featured musical tributes to all service branches.
Kevin DeAcosta, president and CEO of the Highlands at Wyomissing, emphasized the importance of honoring these veterans.
“Caring for our WWII veterans at the Highlands is a responsibility we cherish,” he said. “Their stories and experiences are invaluable, and it’s an honor to provide them with a comfortable and supportive home where they can enjoy their retirement.”
For more information about the Highlands at Wyomissing, visit www.thehighlands.org or call 610-775-2300.
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