Celebrating Donald B. White, Lieutenant Commander in the US Navy

Last month, we had the honor of celebrating a very special pinning ceremony for Veteran Donald B. White, who served in the Navy for 20 years as a Lieutenant Commander on the USS Nantahala.

“What was really special was seeing the turnout for Donald’s pinning ceremony. Word spread and there ended up being 30 people there – his nephews, lifelong friends, and a lot of Summit Place at South Park staff. It was incredible to be able to honor his service in this way!”

Donald began his service in Norfolk, Virginia, before traveling the world on various assignments. One of his last assignments was in Portugal as part of a Mediterranean fleet, after which, he returned to Norfolk to celebrate his retirement. After retirement, Donald enjoyed time with his wife, Madge, and working at a library.

Our Veterans hold a special place in our hearts and as Dan Morris, Donald’s Social Worker with Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region, shared “What was really special was seeing the turnout for Donald’s pinning ceremony. Word spread and there ended up being 30 people there – his nephews, lifelong friends, and a lot of Summit Place at South Park staff. It was incredible to be able to honor his service in this way!”

Donald's friend and caregiver, Allen Smith, loved the idea of the pinning ceremony and worked hard to create a special day. He contacted friends and family, organized refreshments for after the ceremony, and worked with Summit Place to reserve a room for this memorable event.

What was to be an intimate gathering, turned into a party! Everyone enjoyed refreshments while they viewed photos, told stories, and spent time with Donald who looked very handsome in his Naval attire to celebrate the day. We were joined by our Navy friends from Veteran’s Heart Group of Charlotte, in full dress, who offered a salute during the ceremony where Donald also received a pin, certificate, cap, reading in honor of his service, and blanket in a Naval design.

It couldn’t have been a more perfect day and the smiles – and tears - said it all.

Thank you, Donald, for your service to our country. It was truly an honor to celebrate the day with you!