Supporting our veterans

As we head into Memorial Day Weekend, I want to take a moment to honor the memory of not only the fallen men and women who have served in the U.S. military, but to all the Veterans who have put their lives on the line to defend our country. Their bravery is unparalleled and we should not only pay them tribute this weekend, but every day and in every way.

At Philips, we are passionate about improving lives. In fact, our global mission is to improve the lives of 3 billion people a year by 2025. An important part of that mission includes Veterans and military caregivers. Philips’ relationship with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) goes back 45 years, with over 50% of all VA Medical Centers and clinics using Philips healthcare solutions.

We also partner with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation on their Hidden Heroes campaign, which brings much needed attention to the untold stories of military caregivers, while seeking to create public-private partnerships to address the challenges they face. Just a few weeks ago, the EDF held a Military Caregiver event in Boston, which brought together nearly 200 caregivers, support organizations, and local and national leaders to recognize the city’s hidden heroes. You can watch a recap of this inspiring event below.

During the event we were also honored by the presence of 101-year-old WWII Veteran James “Maggie” Megellas – the most decorated officer in the history of the 82nd Airborne Division. Maggie fought bravely in the Battle of the Bulge, was part of Operation Market Garden, helped liberate the Netherlands, and was instrumental in evacuating Americans from Vietnam. Maggie gave an inspiring speech at the event, pointing out that the greatest generation has yet to be born, calling on his audience to seek peace and be proud of their country.

Despite being over a century old, Maggie lives at home with his wife, and has been able to take advantage of Philips Lifeline technologies -- helping him to manage he and his wife’s care from the comfort of their own home, putting his mind and the minds of his family at ease. Maggie has already done so much for our country, and with no signs of slowing down. Even today, he is still making trips back to Afghanistan, working with various organizations including Philips, to give back to the troops. He is an inspiration to us all. Please take a look at the video below to learn more about Maggie’s story.

Earlier this month, from May 5th through May 16th, we partnered with the VA, First Quality Enterprises and the American Legion to help kick off National Baby Shower Week. Together, we hosted 60 baby showers for more than 2,400 Military and Veteran Families nationwide. Philips donated 3,000 “New Parent Bags” full of our Avent baby products to expecting moms, giving them some essentials they will need to help welcome their little one into the world.

I encourage everyone to take the time to thank those brave men and women who have served or are actively serving to defend our country. Try to find ways you can give back in your own small way. Their sacrifices improve billions of lives every day by protecting the freedoms we enjoy, including our ability to pursue life without limitations –– a goal we aspire to at Philips. And for that, they are owed an infinite amount of gratitude and respect. I encourage you to give back in anyway you can, whether it is volunteering through your local VA, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, or any organization of your choice that is working to help support our Veterans and their families. 

Learn more about how Philips’ relationship with the VA is providing Veterans with better access to care here.