WHEREAS, in May 2024, Carolyn Kirkland of Warrenton received a "5 over 50" award from Aging Together, honoring her legacy of service as a nurse in the United States Navy and a devoted volunteer with several veterans organizations; and

WHEREAS, Carolyn Kirkland grew up in Illinois and was inspired at a young age to become a nurse by the Cherry Ames series of mystery novels, several of which take place during World War II or are set in military hospitals; and

WHEREAS, Carolyn Kirkland joined the United States Navy and cared for patients in an amputee ward, where she touched countless lives through her selfless kindness and unwavering dedication; and

WHEREAS, Carolyn Kirkland retired from the United States Navy after 10 years and immediately began volunteering with veterans organizations in Northern Virginia and across the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, since 2018, Carolyn Kirkland has served as an ambassador for Hero's Bridge, a nonprofit organization that supports elderly veterans in the Warrenton area by providing fellowship and assistance with service-related disabilities, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other conditions; and

WHEREAS, Carolyn Kirkland was nominated for Aging Together's "5 over 50" award by the founder of Hero's Bridge for her work ethic, positivity, and tireless support for veterans in need; the annual award recognizes one person over the age of 50 from each of the five eligible counties of Fauquier, Madison, Orange, Culpeper, and Rappahannock; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Carolyn Kirkland, a "5 over 50" award-winner for her exceptional contributions to her fellow veterans; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Carolyn Kirkland as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for her commitment to supporting the men and women who have served and sacrificed in defense of the Commonwealth and the United States.