During the Korean War, Tom Barnet, an Army draftee, received a privileged assignment.He was chosen to guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.The tomb, which dates to World War I, memorializes unidentified U.S.service members who died in combat.
For nearly a century, tomb guards have maintained an unwavering and highly ceremonial watch over the tomb, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.As Tom executed the precise movements of a tomb guard day in and day out, his dedication to honoring the memory of those who sacrificed for their country deepened.Continuing a legacySeven years ago, Tom moved to Pine Run Village.In 2019, as he neared his 90th birthday, he received an email from the Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.The society was about to create a Never Forget Garden to be dedicated on Veterans Day, Nov.
11, 2021, to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I.Inspired by the proposal, Tom decided to create a Never Forget Garden at Pine Run Village.He envisioned the transformation of a small flower garden, which included an understated monument to veterans, into a grander tribute.Toms commitment to the project was absolute.He obtained the approval, rallied a dedicated committee, and started planning.
The committee consisted of veterans and nonveterans, staff and residents.Their collaboration resulted in the expansion and enhancement of the garden well in advance of their stated deadline.After the gardens completion, Tom recognized the need for its sustained care and put together a Guardian of the Garden committee, ensuring its maintenance well into the future.A lifelong curiosityLong before moving to Pine Run, Toms life was marked by boundless curiosity and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.As a child, he was fascinated by radios and the seeming magic of how they worked.I used to listen to them and wonder, how can that wooden box make all those sounds? I had to find out, he says.This curiosity led him to pursue a career in the electronics industry.
He started night school at Drexel University in 1948, but it would take him just over a decade to complete his bachelors degree in engineering.Right in the middle of his education, the Korean War broke out in 1950 and Tom was drafted into the Army.Instead of being deployed overseas, he was stationed at Fort Myer in Arlington, Virginia, as a member of the 3rd U.S.Infantry Regiment, Old Guard, which participates in funeral services at Arlington Cemetery.
It was here that he was assigned as a guard for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.A natural decision for a new homeAfter a fulfilling career as an engineer, finally having unraveled the mystery of radio, Tom moved with his wife to Pine Run Village.They had been living just a mile away.Two of their three daughters had worked at Pine Run during their high school and college years, and the decision to make the community their new home felt natural.It was close, had everything we needed, right near the hospital.
All of our doctors are right in this area, Tom says.Why go someplace unknown and have to get a whole new retinue of doctors?"Sadly, Toms wife died before they could fully settle into their new home.But Pine Run became a place where Tom could continue to thrive independently.At Pine Run, Tom found not only a home but a vibrant community that enriched his wellness, physically and spiritually.
He participates in a number of activities, forging deep connections with fellow residents.Ive been here seven years and enjoyed every moment of it, he says.Its a very nice place to live.A place of personal growthPine Run also has offered the chance for personal growth and exploration for Tom.He has embraced various hobbies and interests, such as gardening, volunteering, and storytelling.
Pine Run University, a program featuring resident and outside speakers, has provided Tom with the opportunity to share his experiences as a tomb guard.He serves as an honorary professor.As Pine Run evolves and supports its residents under the leadership of Presbyterian Senior Living, Tom hopes that the legacy he leaves behind through the Never Forget Garden will inspire future generations.PSL would like to recognize all Veterans, especially those living at a PSL Community.Your service and sacrifice is noble and we thank you for protecting our country and the freedoms offered to all American citizens.
Publisher: PSL Blog ( Read More )
