The Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo, Texas, opened its doors in 2007 to provide exceptional long-term care for up to 120 residents, with a specialized unit catering to up to 30 Alzheimer's patients in a secure environment. This facility, exclusively for Texas veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents, offers top-notch care that is both Medicare and Medicaid certified. The secured Alzheimer's unit is designed to provide specialized care in a beautiful setting, featuring cozy visiting areas, a designated activity space, and a private dining room. Surrounding the unit is a serene outdoor courtyard, providing residents with a comfortable and secure space to enjoy the outdoors.
The history of the Ussery-Roan Home is steeped in honor and sacrifice, as it was named after two Panhandle heroes: former VLB member and veterans advocate Mike Ussery, and Medal of Honor recipient Marine PFC Charles Howard Roan. Roan's ultimate sacrifice on the battlefield at Pelelieu, where he threw himself on a grenade to save his fellow Marines, serves as a testament to bravery and selflessness. Ussery, a key figure in advocating for the establishment of a Veterans Home in Amarillo, passed away just before the groundbreaking for the home. The dedication of the Ussery-Roan Home in 2007 by Commissioner Jerry Patterson stands as a tribute to these two remarkable individuals and their unwavering commitment to serving and honoring veterans.
The Amarillo home, chosen by the VLB as the site for the seventh Texas State Veterans Home, is reflective of the state's ongoing dedication to providing quality care for its veterans. With its state-of-the-art facilities, compassionate staff, and focus on meeting the unique needs of aging veterans, the Ussery-Roan Home strives to create a home-like environment where residents can receive personalized care and support. The mission of the home is to honor the service and sacrifices of Texas veterans by offering a safe, comfortable, and nurturing place where they can live with dignity and respect. Through its commitment to excellence and its dedication to serving those who have served our country, the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home stands as a beacon of care and compassion for Texas veterans and their families.