Dec. 12, 2025 - When you walk into the main lobby at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Mechanicsburg, you'll immediately notice a special corner with a special chair. Marked off with black velvet roping, the ornate chair sits empty to honor veterans.
“The Veterans' Chair of Honor serves as a visible and meaningful tribute to the men and women who have served our country,” said Kristen Turner, CEO of Encompass Health Mechanicsburg. “Many of our patients, visitors and team members have military backgrounds. Placing the chair in our main lobby is a purposeful way to acknowledge their service the moment they walk through our doors.”
Turner says the idea came from a desire to honor veterans not just on Veteran's Day. Turner wanted something year-round - something permanent. She remembered the Veterans' Chair of Honor at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Middletown, and after doing her own research, Turner set the plan into motion with her team.
“I searched for the type of chair we were looking for and found it in Lancaster,” said Ray Walmer, director of facilities management for the hospital. “I actually purchased it from a veteran. When I explained the hospital's purpose behind it, she became quite emotional.”
Walmer reupholstered the chair himself. He constructed black stations for the chair to sit on. Then, he placed the American flag and POW/MIA flag on either side.
“The idea behind creating this space was to establish a permanent symbol of respect, gratitude and remembrance,” Turner said. “It reinforces our commitment to honoring veterans not just on specific holidays but every day. This is part of the compassionate culture we strive for at Encompass Health Mechanicsburg.”
The space is certainly being noticed. The response from veterans and non-veterans has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Veterans have expressed appreciation for being recognized in such a visible and dignified way,” Turner said. “Many have shared that the chair makes them feel seen, valued and supported during what can sometimes be a stressful health care experience.”
For non-veterans, the chair has prompted meaningful conversations with loved ones about military service.
“Overall, the chair has become a point of pride for the hospital community,” Turner said. “It's something that conveys respect and compassion in a simple yet profound way.”
Encompass Health Mechanicsburg has other developing initiatives to serve and recognize veterans. The hospital plans to develop a recognition wall for veteran staff members and collaborate with local veteran organizations to support events and raise awareness.