As a volunteer at the Covenant Hospice Inpateint Care Center at West Florida Hospital, Jerry Kosowski had a desire to honor those patients who were also veterans. With that intention Kosowski sat down at his computer and designed a certificate, which the Covenant Hospice staff and volunteers could sign and then present to any veteran who came through the door. “I just thought the certificate would be something that would make veterans feel good,” said Kosowski.

The certificate reads, Covenant Hospice salutes our Veterans and thanks you for your service. It also includes the branch seals of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and the Coast Guard over the image of an American flag. “I wanted something to let veterans know just how special they are,” said Kosowski. “It’s nice to see the faces of the patients light up when someone remembers and honors their service.”

According to Kosowski, that has not always been the case. “I served in Vietnam and witnessed how service men and women were treated when they returned home.” He hopes that the certificate is one small step in correctly recognizing veterans for their service to our country. “I especially think the certificates will mean a lot to those who served in World War II and the Korean War,” said Kosowski.

Kosowski also feels the veteran patients truly appreciate the opportunity to speak with a fellow veteran. “If you have never gone swimming, you can’t describe it to someone,” said Kosowski. “Veterans have a special bond, because they can talk to someone who might have a better idea about what they have gone through.” In addition to his service with Covenant Hospice, Kosowski and his wife Sandi also serve as volunteers for the USO and assist with the local Honor Flights.