As the USA celebrated its semiquincentennial this July 4th, the residents of Holly Creek Life Plan Community recognized America’s 250th anniversary in their own special way: with the reflections of those who served to make our democracy possible.
Neighbor Jim Sherman served for several years in the Arizona Army National Guard and then in the Army Reserve, eventually becoming a volunteer Army Reserve Ambassador.
“It was a quiet 4th of July for us,” he shared. “A lot of us remember the people we’ve known. But we also reflect proudly on the service that we’ve had, that our nation is still here and our military is very active.”
He’s one of many veterans and veteran spouses at the community. “At our last Memorial Day Luncheon, we had 90+ people who were all veterans or spouses,” he shared. “I gave out our Holly Creek challenge coins commemorating service, both to the veterans and spouses as well.” Jim is grateful for the opportunities he has both in and outside of Holly Creek to meet with veterans regularly. “It’s a unique experience that we’ve had, and it’s fun to get back together and talk about things.”
One other such veteran is his neighbor and former Brigadier General Gary Hahn. “Of course, the 4th of July is a big day for those of us who have served,” Hahn agreed, when asked about what the day means to him. Not only does he celebrate his wife’s birthday (whom he met in the military), but it is also a reminder of why he served for nearly three decades with the Air Force.
“It’s something we look back on and are happy that we served…. This year was special because of the anniversary of our country, as well as looking back on our military service. We served under eight presidents, four Republican and four Democrat,” he recalled. “One of the things that I appreciated about Holly Creek, is that when we came here, we discovered that so many people had served in the military, and now we’ve been able to celebrate with them on many Veteran’s Day and other key days.”
It was a quiet celebration of remembrance for Holly Creek resident and former Navy Air Reserve volunteer Phyllis Holmes as well. Holmes joined the Navy Air Reserve when women were first able to join as part of the WAVES—or Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service. It was a way to be near her husband while they were newlyweds, even though they had to stay in separate barracks! This year, the couple watched the New York fireworks on TV together. “I really enjoyed that,” Phyllis shared. “It was wonderful to see what appeared to be joy and such celebration of all kinds of people.”
While the sands of time continue to shift, she is grateful that she continues to see so many people making a difference in our country and at Holly Creek itself.
“Holly Creek is a unique community,” Phyllis added. “I’m very proud of the fact that our community can have conversations and respect each other at the same time. So many of those who live here are working hard for what they think is politically right and still doing it in a way that won’t offend others, encouraging others to get involved and vote.”
It gives her hope for the future of our country amidst challenging times. It also serves as a good reminder of the responsibility and privilege all Americans carry, as we celebrate a legacy handed down to us across 250 years of service and sacrifice.
