Seneca Hills Village Singers honor veterans

From “You’re a Grand Old Flag” to “The White Cliffs of Dover,” songs of patriotism and hope for peace rang throughout an independent living facility in Penn Hills on Veterans Day.

The Seneca Hills Village Singers put on the performance each year to honor those who’ve served, including 16 residents and one staff member. This time around, the group dedicated a rendition of “God of Every Nation” to the people of Ukraine, Israel and Palestine, all of whom face danger from active conflicts.

Randy Groth, a resident and Korean War veteran, said the performance is a chance for people to “really show what they stand for.”

Each veteran in attendance received a certificate in appreciation of their service. Joe Hajdu, a resident who directs and plays the piano accompaniment for the choir, also took a moment to honor the five veterans at the facility who’ve passed away since last Veterans Day.

Seneca Hills Village assistant manager Barbara DeMarco said events like these build community among veterans in the building. DeMarco served as an Army reservist for nine years, starting as an operating room technician and eventually becoming a licensed practical nurse.

“It lets those of us from different time periods in the service share stories,” DeMarco said.

Resident Lucille Spengler organized the 10-song program with help from Hajdu.

“I think it’s the right thing to do, to honor all of the veterans,” Spengler said.

The group performs for special occasions throughout the year, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the Fourth of July. In October, they even sang songs with “moon” in the title the night before a full moon. The choir is now getting to work on its Christmas show.

Many residents said the choir is one of their favorite activities, including Barbara Kharouf, but the main reason she sang on Veterans Day is simple: ”they deserve it.”