The first Veterans Day at Ames Family Hospice was a special one.

A new flag, donated by Elyria American Legion Post 12, was raised at the flagpole Sunday afternoon by Post 12 members Bill Brokop and Ron Carr.

Buglers played Taps, and Carr gave a short speech on the history and importance of Veterans Day.

One hospice patient, a woman who served in the Army, was given a pin honoring her service in a ceremony following the flag-raising.

"We're all part of a family," Carr said of those who have served. "She is our sister-in-arms."

Veterans who serve as Ames Family Hospice volunteers were also honored with a reception afterwards.

Tom Schuerger of Westlake, who served in the U.S. and Okinawa from 1960-64, is one of those volunteers. He has been volunteering at Ames Family Hospice since it opened earlier this year.

"I needed another place to volunteer," said Schuerger, who also volunteers with the Westlake Historical Society and the Community Emergency Response Team program.

Schuerger said the best part about volunteering at the hospice is spending time with the veterans.

"I love to talk with them and hear their stories," he said. "Those who are here, who are still aware of things, like being appreciated and talked to."