by, Sheila Hagar, Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Jun 18, 2017 Updated Jun 18, 2017
A few hours after becoming the first person to move into the new Walla Walla Veterans Home, Alphonse “Al” Benitez on Friday looked very much at home.
In the great room of the Umatilla House, one of eight residences within four buildings, he was ensconced in an armchair and listened to Walla Walla guitarist Rick Doyle strum and sing a compilation of military songs.
“You’re in the Army now,” Benitez sang in soft accompaniment in the cheery room as staff bustled about their only charge until more residents move in over the next few weeks.
Amid patriotic fanfare, Benitez had been welcomed with a flurry of flags, a salute from employees and themed cupcakes, said the facility’s superintendent, Lael Hepworth.
“I told him, ‘Welcome, Al, as the first admission to the Walla Walla Veterans Home.’ He got a little emotional, then he walked in and had a cupcake,” Hepworth said with a smile.
Read full story and view photos here http://www.union-bulletin.com/news/walla-walla-veterans-home-welcomes-its-first-resident/article_c48c6796-53b5-11e7-8e75-dfdfe32cf416.html