BUCHANAN — A Buchanan Navy veteran received a hero’s celebration Wednesday afternoon as part of Lakeland Hospital’s Hospice at Home Salutes our Veterans program.

Fifty-one-year-old Robert Bennett served 21 years in the Navy, but has not been able to speak or walk in the past five years because he suffers from both Parkinson’s disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

He is confined to a bed in his home, where he receives constant care through Hospice at Home, private caregivers and his family.

Nancy, his wife and primary caregiver said Robert recently contracted pneumonia and is not expected to live much longer.

“He’s strong and he’s held on longer than expected,” said Nancy, explaining that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 1997 and ALS more recently.

The small ceremony took place in Robert’s bedroom, where relatives, Hospice at Home staff and caregivers gathered to say “thank you.”

Robert was dressed in a Navy T-shirt and was covered by a Navy blanket while World War II veteran Arden Pridgeon held his hand and presented him with a certificate of appreciation.

“No person was ever honored for what he or she received. Honor has always been the reward for what he or she gave,” said Pridgeon, a member of Lest We Forget. “We are gathered here today to honor you for what you gave… your service to your country.”

Robert was also presented with an autographed “History of the Eagles” DVD — his favorite band.

Although he could not speak, Robert’s tears told everyone in the room how he felt.

“It means a lot to him,” Nancy said. “He is U.S. all the way.”