OhioHealth Marion General Hospital Honors Veterans with "Never Forget" Rose Planting Ceremony
On Monday, November 11, 2024, OhioHealth Marion General Hospital hosted a special dedication ceremony to honor America’s veterans. The event, held in the hospital’s East Conference Room and Memorial Garden, featured a moving tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for our nation.
Organized by TWIG VI, a local volunteer organization, the event centered around the planting of a "Never Forget" rose bush—a symbolic gesture that underscores the hospital’s commitment to remembering and honoring veterans.
The ceremony began with a gathering in the East Conference Room, where attendees enjoyed light refreshments and listened to a short program that highlighted the significance of the dedication. A focal point of the ceremony was the "Never Forget" rose—a white rose bush chosen specifically for its association with remembrance and the enduring legacy of America’s fallen heroes.
The "Never Forget" garden initiative is supported by the Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which encourages public and private gardens to dedicate portions of their spaces to honor military service members.
The White Rose has been adopted as the official flower of the Society of the Honor Guard in memory of the fact that a bouquet of white roses was used in the selection of America’s Unknown Soldier on November 11, 1921.
Dr. Jim Hering, a retired surgical physician from Marion General Hospital and a veteran himself, was a key figure in the ceremony. Dr. Hering, a longtime member and former chair of the TWIG VI Garden Club, donated the "Never Forget" shrub rose for the planting. He is also a distinguished member of the American Rose Society and the International Rose Society, reflecting his dedication to both the community and the preservation of American traditions.
Alongside his wife, Anne, an active member of TWIG VI, Dr. Hering continues to contribute to the local community through his work with the Garden Club and his involvement in veteran-related initiatives.
"Honoring veterans is a responsibility that we all share," Dr. Hering remarked during the ceremony. "This rose serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our military heroes, and the white petals represent our lasting gratitude and commitment to never forget them."
Following the program, attendees proceeded to the Memorial Garden for the planting of the rose bush. As they gathered around the garden, many expressed their appreciation for the hospital’s recognition of veterans and the symbolism behind the white rose.
Beth Meadows, Advisor of Philanthropy & Volunteers at Marion General Hospital, noted that the ceremony reflects the hospital’s broader commitment to supporting veterans and their families.
"This event is a small but powerful gesture to honor those who have given so much for our freedom. We are proud to dedicate this space as a 'Never Forget Garden' and to have Dr. Hering and TWIG VI lead this effort," Meadows said.
The "Never Forget" white roses at Marion General Hospital now serve as a symbol of remembrance, inviting the community to reflect on the legacy of veterans and the values they have defended.
