LA CROSSE, Wis. — The security team at a Wisconsin hospital is doing more than just keeping the hospital campus safe. They have also found a way to honor veterans.
Charlie Hall is a part of the security team at the Mayo Clinic Heath System in Wisconsin. He’s going above and beyond the call of duty to honor those who served.
Hall has led a long life of service. He served 20 years in the U.S. Army, served as a corrections officer, and is now serving as a member of the security team at the Mayo Clinic Health System. He said his time in the service meant a lot to him.
“My service is probably the most important thing I’ve done in my life,” Hall said.
And to honor that importance, Hall created the “Honor Walk.” It’s where a deceased veteran is covered with a flag and gracefully wheeled through the halls while staff and family members fill the wings of the hospital to pay their respects and show their gratitude for the veteran’s service.
“Decedents were taken down, and it was kind of low key. So what I wanted to do was bring some honor on that final walk,” Hall said.
Hall started the “Honor Walk” about a year and a half ago and has been able to honor dozens, if not more, veterans. He said it is a very surreal feeling while they walk these veterans down the halls and that he knows it means a great deal to their family members.
“It’s a proud moment for all of us to be able to participate in this with the family and the staff,” Hall said.
Security officer Jack Johnson also takes part in these honor walks. He said he’s proud to be a part of something so honorable.
“I feel proud that I am able to do this for them and respect their commitment and sacrifice they gave to this country and to me,” Johnson said.
Both officers said the walk is filled with emotion and that pride is one of the most tangible emotions in the hallways.
“It means a lot to be able to deliver this to our patients,” Hall said.
At the end of the “Honor Walk,” Hall sends the veterans off with one final salute to showcase they are being laid to rest with the respect and honor they deserve.
The security team said they hope to expand these services to fallen first responders too.