Celebrating a Lifetime of Service and Friendship

At Compassus, our mission is not just about providing medical care; it’s about building meaningful connections that enrich lives. Our Veteran Volunteer Program honors brave individuals who served our country and fosters deeper connections among veterans. A heartwarming example is the bond between veteran volunteer Michael Barrentine and hospice patient Irving Levine.

Michael served in the U.S. Army from 2004 to 2010, including deployment to Iraq in 2008. Irving, decades earlier, served in World War II from 1942 to 1946 as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Corps, guiding Allied aircraft over the Himalayas. Despite their generational gap, the two veterans share a profound connection built on mutual respect and shared experiences.

During visits, Michael and Irving exchange military stories, discuss sports, reminisce and simply enjoy each other’s company. What began as volunteer visits blossomed into a deep friendship, showing how service can unite people across generations.

This connection shone brightly during Irving’s extraordinary 104th birthday celebration, where Michael played a key role ensuring Irving’s milestone was honored. The City of Evansville proclaimed February 4th “Sergeant Irving Levine Day,” recognizing Irving’s life and service. As of February 2026, Irving holds the title of Indiana’s oldest living WWII veteran—a testament to an extraordinary life of resilience and sacrifice. 

The bond that Michael and Irving have built highlights the program’s ability to unite veterans and honor shared experiences, serving as a shining example of community, service and gratitude. Together, both veterans represent a lifetime of sacrifice and friendship, reminding us of the importance of giving back to those who gave so much.

Through initiatives like the Veteran Volunteer Program, Compassus celebrates veterans’ legacies and fosters life-changing connections.