The Pearl River County Hospital and Nursing Home recognized its veterans during the “We Honor Veterans” program held at the Poplarville facility on Wednesday.

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization developed the campaign in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs, according to a release by the organization.

The event was helmed by Solace Hospice, which honored all local veterans for their tireless service and contribution to the country.

Those recognized at the event included 11 veteran patients, two hospital Board of Trustee members and three employees. All veterans in attendance were presented with medals engraved with “Defenders of Freedom” along with a certificate of recognition to all branches of service.

“Our objective has been to provide the best possible service and take care of many who perhaps have some unique needs,” said Carley Davis, CEO of Solace Hospice. “I’m a veteran myself, having served in Iraq, and couldn’t be more grateful to have gotten the opportunity to live and serve in the country that these veterans before me have defended.”

Veterans at the event had served in the Korean War, the Vietnam War and in Iraq. There was also an individual who built airplanes during World War II.

Later in the day a peanut boil was held at the nursing home, providing an opportunity for residents to socialize and sit back and listen to some music.

“We treat all veterans and their families like ours, we don’t want to be the biggest but want to be the best.” Davis said.