At Cherry Blossom Hospice, we believe in providing exceptional care to all our patients, with a special dedication to our nation’s veterans. Meet Roger Rustad, our Spiritual Care Director, who is dedicated to honoring veterans like Army Veteran and Korean War hero Bob Henderson.

Beyond Medical Care: The Extraordinary Ways Cherry Blossom Hospice Supports Veterans

Chaplain Rustad recently visited Bob at home, dog tag machine in hand, to help him replicate an exact copy of the Korean War dog tags that he lost – a heartfelt gesture that brought a smile to Bob’s face. Chaplain Rustad is able to make any style of dog tag from the last 80 years with his portable machine. This is just one example of the extraordinary care and compassion we provide to our veteran patients.

With effort, Bob mustered the strength and pulled the lever to make his tag. He remembered his Military ID number and blood type. Roger checked his DD214 Military Discharge papers. Perfect!

Tears of Joy: The Moment a Lost Memento was Returned to a Korean War Hero

After Chaplain Rustad handed the dog tags to Bob and put it around his neck, he asked, with tears in his eyes, “Why are you doing this?”

“To save you standing in another long line when you re-enlist,” Chaplain Rustad said. They both got a laugh.

As a board member connected to Desmond Doss, the Medal of Honor recipient from ‘Hacksaw Ridge’, Chaplain Rustad deeply understands the sacrifices of veterans. But our commitment to comfort and peace extends to every individual across Southern California. This small act is just one example of how Chaplain Rustad and Cherry Blossom Hospice goes above and beyond to care for their patients.

Leave All Your Medical Worries To Us. . . 

Explore our website at cherryblossomhospice.com to discover how we can support you and your loved ones.

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