LEWES, Del. - On this Veteran’s Day, American Legion Post 17 held a ceremony for two leaders in the Lewes community, Lewes Mayor Ted Becker and President and CEO of Beebe Healthcare, Dr. David Tam.
Not only were the two veterans honored for their service in the military, but for the work they have done to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We are just impressed with their many years, over 20 years of military service, in addition to being such great servants and warriors for us for the COVID-19 virus here in Lewes,” said Murt Foos, Unit 17 President for the American Legion Auxiliary.
Becker and Dr. Tam received a one year tribute membership to the American Legion Post 17.
"Being a part of the Legion, which really is a custom and tradition that spans generations, is really reassuring and comforting,” said Dr. Tam.
Dr. Tam served in the Navy for 24 years, and retired 13 years ago.
"I was a physician as a child neurologist, but moved into administration, and took command at a large naval hospital,” said Dr. Tam.
While the work is not done with the pandemic, he is grateful for this honor.
"I will tell you I accept all of that on behalf of Beebe Healthcare which has done an amazing job,” he said.
Ted Becker served in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Reserves.
"I was in the reserves, the balance, for 26 years, and I served at Walter Reed and Fitzsimons and basically the rehab units there. I was an occupational therapist. It was a very meaningful time. I was active duty during Vietnam and active duty during Desert Storm,” said Becker.
The mayor says he’s honored to be a member of the Legion.
The Legion is also accepting donations for disabled and hospitalized veterans through poppy donation cans, which you can find throughout Lewes and at American Legion Post 17.