Seton Medical Center helps honor veterans

A simple "thank you," for Army veteran Juan Marroquin goes beyond words.

"It makes me emotional thinking about those that paid the ultimate price," said Marroquin.

On Saturday morning dozens of people gathered at Seton Medical Center for the unveiling of the military memorial garden.

The event marks the beginning of the hospitals 'Honor the red, white and blue,' program, which recognizes both military and veteran patients for their service.

It's located in front of the hospitals north entrance and features two custom granite benches along with a walkway, decorated with six branches of military. The tribute comes just in time for Veterans Day. 

"I feel like we should do more for vets than we're doing. Their giving the ultimate sacrifice for our country so we can have a safe country and live in a community where we don't have to worry about war and we can go places and feel safe," said Navy veteran Ingrid Bales.

Marroquin says he served our country for nearly two decades and says seeing the garden reminded him of the time he spent in the service along with men and women who are currently overseas. And he says there should be more places to honor our military men and women. 

"Commemorations activities like this one should be done everywhere. Where there are veterans I'm pretty sure there are vets who have fallen throughout America who have no recognition," said Marroquin.

He says it's a sacrifice he would do all over if given the chance. 

"You darn right I would I had a blast I did things I would of never done if I stayed state side and I've traveled most of the world," said Marroquin.

Marroquin says a simple gesture such as a handshake goes a long way especially in the eyes of a military veteran.

"It's a great gesture.  It's a reminder of the service they gave to our county," said Marroquin.