WWII and Korean Veterans Receive Medals Published Nov. 18, 2009 By Capt. Shane Huff 927th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- World War II and Korean War veterans received various campaign medals during a Veteran's Day ceremony at Baldomero Lopez State Veteran's Nursing Home last week. The ceremony was presided by Ann Hildebrand, Pasco County Commissioner District 3. It was a patriotic ceremony with the presentation of colors, conducted by the Baldomero Lopez Chapter 175 Tampa, the playing of "God Bless America", and the pledge of allegiance. The Baldomero Lopez Korean War Veterans gave a rifle salute before the playing of "Taps" in memory of those lost in battle. Lieutenant Colonel Tom Castriota, U.S. Marine Corps Retired, presented medals to approximately 25 receipients of the Baldomero Lopez home during the ceremony. Major Ron Hartley and team from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office District IV Street Crimes Unit delivered 236 boxes of donations consisting of personal hygiene items, books, DVD's, and art supplies. Operation Patriot, a non-profit organization raising funds for state veterans nursing homes, conducted the donation drive at numerous businesses and 23 schools in Hillsborough County. They also gave $1400 in gift cards for McDonalds, Chik-Fil-A, Target and Walmart. According to Sue Poynter, facility coordinator, the cards will be used when residents have specific requests, or to stop at a restaurant when veterans are returning from a medical appointment. One of the largest contributors during the donation drive, Peggy Green with Odyssey Marine Explorations in Tampa, donated a lift chair to one of the veterans who is unalbe to sleep in a bed or able to get up by himself. With the lift chair he is able to rest and get up when needed. Ms. Rebecca Yackel, Administrator for Baldomero Lopez ended the ceremony with closing remarks of thanks to the veterans, donation contributors, attending family members and friends.