Memorial Day offers a special opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many in service to our country. At Gilchrist, we not only remember those who gave their lives in service, but we also honor those veterans still with us today—through heartfelt Salute to Service ceremonies, personalized care, and a community that values their contributions.
At Gilchrist, we are deeply committed to honoring the lives and legacies of the veterans we serve. As a proud Level 4 partner of the We Honor Veterans program, Gilchrist recognizes that every veteran deserves dignity, gratitude, and recognition. Our Veterans Task Force—made up of staff, volunteers, and military family members—works throughout the year to ensure that veterans and their families feel supported and celebrated. One recent tribute was held for a remarkable veteran: Chief Master Sergeant Charles “Charlie” Gratz.
A Life of Service: Chief Master Sergeant Charlie Gratz
Born in 1936 in Dundalk, Maryland, Charles “Charlie” Gratz grew up in a large, loving family alongside eight sisters and three brothers. He attended St. Rita School before graduating from Patterson Park High School. At just 18 years old, Charlie made the decision to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force.
Trained in aircraft quality maintenance, Charlie’s skills and dedication led him to serve at multiple bases, including Cannon Air Force Base in Clovis, New Mexico, as well as stations in Germany and Panama. Over a military career that spanned more than 30 years, Charlie earned the distinguished rank of Chief Master Sergeant—an achievement attained by only about one percent of enlisted Air Force personnel. His promotion reflected his outstanding leadership, technical expertise, and dedication to service.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Charlie is known for his generous spirit and strong sense of community. He ran the Christmas parties on base every year, making sure every child received a special gift. He also managed the NCO Club, providing a welcoming gathering place for fellow service members. According to his daughter Patty, the military was—and continues to be—a central part of Charlie’s life. He is the proud father of two daughters, Dawn and Patricia, and has cherished lifelong friendships with his military comrades.
A Special Salute: Honoring Charlie’s Service
Recently, Gilchrist had the privilege of honoring Charlie with a Salute to Service tribute—a moving ceremony organized by our Veterans Task Force and supported by veteran volunteers and staff. Family members, friends, and several of Charlie’s Air Force buddies gathered to celebrate his life of service.
The tribute began with an opening prayer, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Charlie was presented with a certificate of appreciation from Gilchrist, a We Honor Veterans pin, and a Vietnam Era pin from the Veterans Administration. A patriotic blanket, handmade by a Gilchrist volunteer, and a heartfelt thank-you card created by a local student were also given to Charlie as tokens of gratitude.
In a particularly poignant moment, a Gilchrist music therapist played several patriotic songs, including the official Air Force anthem. To conclude the ceremony, fellow veterans formed a line and delivered a formal salute to Charlie, honoring him in the time-honored tradition of their shared military brotherhood. The tribute closed with a prayer and a heartfelt rendition of “God Bless America.”
This Memorial Day—and every day—Gilchrist honors the courage, sacrifice, and service of veterans like Chief Master Sergeant Charlie Gratz. We are privileged to walk alongside them, offering care, respect, and gratitude in every step of their journey.
To learn more about Gilchrist and their We Honor Veteran’s Task Force, visit: https://gilchristcares.org/services/hospice-care/specialized-hospice-programs/whv/
