Kenneth Kizer, the undersecretary for health for the Department of Veteran Affairs, wanted a commemorative rose to symbolize the pride and gratitude that Americans have for their veterans.
“Without their sacrifices and beneficence, the freedoms that Americans and many other people enjoy today would not be possible.” At that time, Dr. Keith Zary was head of research and rose breeding at Jackson & Perkins and offered Veterans’ Honor, a dark red, hybrid tea with a light raspberry fragrance.
In 1999, on Memorial Day, Veterans’ Honor was dedicated in ceremonies across the United States and is now planted on the grounds of Veterans Affairs facilities nationwide. This rose serves as a living and lasting tribute to our selfless and courageous veterans. Also, a portion of the sale of this rose benefits the veterans’ health care. The rose should be available at many of your local garden centers.