The Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) will host a Memorial Day Ceremony, Friday, May 24, 2024

The event will be held at the amphitheater, located at the rear entrance of the Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona, Orlando, Fla. 

This solemn occasion will pay tribute to the brave men and women who have selflessly served and sacrificed for the United States Armed Forces. Attendees will have the opportunity to reflect on the valor and dedication of those who have given their lives in service to our country. 

Marine Corps Major General, James S. Hartsell, Executive Director for the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs will provide the keynote address. 

Everyone is welcome to attend. In addition to our keynote speaker, community participants from the OVAHCS, executive leaders, Central Florida Veterans Memorial Park Foundation, the Orange County Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Board, and others will be assisting with the facilitation of the ceremony. 

“Hosting a Memorial Day ceremony is not just about honoring the fallen. It’s about preserving their legacy, honoring their sacrifice, and reminding ourselves of the debt of gratitude we owe to those who gave their all for our freedom,” said OVAHCS Director/CEO, Timothy J. Cooke. 

Parking for the event will be made available in the east and west parking garages, and in any available parking spots located in the south parking lot near the emergency room. Attendees are asked to refrain from parking in the Community Living Center and Domiciliary parking lots. In addition, Golf cart shuttles will be operating to assist with transporting attendees to and from the ground floor of both the east and west parking garages. 

Media representatives interested in attending are encouraged to contact the Office of Public Affairs by emailing vhaorlpublicaffairs@va.go or by calling 407-840-6967. 

For more information please visit: VA Orlando Health Care | Veterans Affairs, subscribe to receive email updates by clicking here, like us on Facebook at: @OVAHCS, follow us on Instagram at: @OVAHCS or on Twitter at:@OVAHCS. 

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Established in October 2006, the Orlando VA Healthcare System (VAHCS) was designated a 1a facility (most complex) in 2021, with more than 5,660 employees and an annual budget of $1.5B and serves more than 149,000 Veterans in Central Florida.

Melanie Thomas, Public Affairs Officer

Phone: