Nine-year-old Everett Eskew took a trip to the U.S. Army Museum in Fort Belvoir when he wondered who is thanking all the veterans in nursing homes. Everett's mom, Angela, wasn't sure.
"I want to do it," Everett said.
On Veterans Day in 2024, Everett donned a suit and tie and visited the Renaissance Assisted Living community in Annandale. That's when he met Bill Ethington, who served in the Vietnam War.
Ethington currently has Dementia and doesn't often speak. Still, the two were able to form a bond with one another that went beyond words.
"It was just very special to me," said Everett, who began planning follow up visits to see Ethington and other residents of the community.
Everett currently holds monthly "story time" sessions for those at Renaissance where he reads a book to seniors and answers their questions.
"He's quite remarkable," Linda Ethington, Bill's spouse, said.
Everett also spends time with those like Ethington to learn about their time in the service.
"[Bill]'s nonverbal yet there was communication happening and it was beautiful," Angela said.
Through the visits, Everett is learning life lessons that he can't get from a history book.
"And without even having to say anything, Bill is inspiring Everett," Everett said.
This story is part of WUSA9's ongoing series "The Heart of It", which highlights inspiring and emotional stories from the DMV and beyond. If you have a story suggestion for Sean Martinelli, you can email [email protected].