The Rhode Island Veterans’ Home has been under scrutiny of late. Reports of narrow doors that require reconstruction, cost overruns and other issues have plagued the facility in recent months. In a December, 2019 interview with WPRI-12, Gov. Gina Raimondo said she was “disappointed” with leadership at the home, a criticism which fell soundly in the lap of Bristol resident Brig. Gen. Rick Baccus, who has served as administrator of the home for the past 11 years. Soon after, Gen. Baccus submitted his resignation and announced his retirement, to take effect March 20.

In his resignation letter, Gen. Baccus said it has been an honor to serve the state’s veterans community for the past 13 years, and he drew particular attention to the opening of the new facility.

“I have been proud to be a part of the design and construction of the new facility beginning in 2012; part of the team that moved our 194 residents into the new facility in only six days in November of 2017 without incident and, 10 days later, completing a deficiency-free federal recognition survey which qualified the state to receive over ten million dollars in federal reimbursement yearly. I have always done my best for the veterans who are residents of the home.”

The people who have worked with Gen. Baccus day in and day out, from the staff at the Veterans Home to Bristol town officials, have nothing but praise for Gen. Baccus’ leadership.

Just last week, 11 members of the Home’s administrative staff wrote a letter, calling Gen. Baccus’ resignation “devastating.”

“While the decision for General Rick Baccus to retire from the Rhode Island Veterans’ Home may have been his choice, it is clearly our loss,” it read. The letter went on to note that his policies supported the independence of residents and took issue with criticisms from the state that his leadership was “disappointing” or “ineffective.”

“We will welcome and assist whomever is chosen to oversee this amazing facility that you paved the way for,” the letter concludes, addressing the general directly. “We could not allow you to leave without letting you know exactly what you have meant to your administrative staff. It has been an honor and privilege to work under your leadership these past 11 years.”

On Tuesday, Feb. 25, at the monthly meeting of the Veterans’ Home Family Council, a substantial contingent of town officials turned up to publicly thank and support Gen. Baccus for his many years of service.

“Thank you just doesn’t seem to be enough,” said Chairwoman Donna St. Angelo. “Despite an atmosphere of financial challenge, your leadership provided a first rate living space for our veterans. 

“I remember your vision and detailed plan for moving everyone and everything from the old building into this beautiful new building. You and your team of staff and volunteers accomplished this ahead of schedule.  Your attention to every detail was just one of your many accomplishments.

“Our Family Council was re-established with your encouragement and support. Your tireless work ethic was obvious, with constantly seeing you in our cottages, at our activities and especially during holidays. 

It is with deep regret that we acknowledge your retirement. You made a habitat a home and, as family members, please know that we truly appreciate you as a valued friend and fellow advocate more than we can say.”

Ms. St. Angelo also read an excerpt from a letter from Scott Lyons, whose father is a resident of the home. Mr. Lyons cited Gen. Baccus’ “quietly admirable personal demeanor and compassion,” noting that he “worked hard and intelligently, faced extraordinary challenges, both politically and financially. He has enriched and inspired all of us along the way.”

Town Administrator Steve Contente spoke next, calling up town officials, leadership from the Elks Club, veterans’ organizations, the Fourth of July Committee, the Police, Fire, and Recreation departments.

“Your dedication to the country and the Town of Bristol is very much appreciated,” Mr. Contente said. “We appreciate you and everything you have done for veterans.”

Nathan Calouro, Bristol Town Council chairman, said, “This gentleman represents honesty, integrity, and follow-through. He’s a wonderful person.” To Gen. Baccus he said, “I don’t know many people like you, and I am very proud to know you.”

“I’m very thankful that the town administrator came and brought the troops with him today,” said Ms. St. Angelo. “It’s important that Rick knows that he has the support of our town and our families.”

By all accounts of his many supporters, Gen. Baccus is a man of few words, something he demonstrated in his thanks following the presentation. “Sometimes you don’t realize the support you have when you are going through something,” he said. “I appreciate this, and I thank you for your support.”