Director's Message July 19, 2024

On this significant day, we honor the memory of our World War II heroes and acknowledge the enduring legacy they have left for future generations.

Guam’s Liberation Day is not just a remembrance of our past, but a celebration of the strength and unity of our island community. It is a day to recognize the contributions of our Veterans, who have continued to uphold the values of liberty and justice, ensuring that the spirit of liberation remains alive in our hearts.

Our Veterans’ unwavering commitment to service and sacrifice serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Their stories of bravery and dedication remind us of the true cost of freedom and the importance of preserving peace. Today, we extend our deepest gratitude to all Veterans, past and present, who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation and our way of life.

As we honor this historic occasion, let us also look towards the future with renewed hope and determination. Let us strive to build a community that reflects the values our veterans fought for: unity, respect, and freedom for all.

On behalf of all of us at the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS), I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have served and continue to serve. May we always remember and honor the sacrifices made for our freedom. 

Anniversary of 988

Two years ago, we celebrated the launch of the streamlined option to connect to the Veteran Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 1, which made it easier for Veterans - as well as their loved ones - to gain access to the care and support that they need in times of crisis. It’s not easy to quantify, but lives have undoubtedly been saved, and that is one of the most important missions we have at the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS). Suicide prevention is the responsibility of every employee at VAPIHCS, because each person who interacts with a Veteran has an opportunity to improve their wellbeing through kindness, compassion, and patience. 

Suicide prevention is one of our most sacred obligations when it comes to Veteran care. There is no shame in feeling overwhelmed after getting out of the military, or in having trouble adjusting to civilian life. There is no shame in struggling to cope with psychological, physical, and spiritual wounds. Whatever your struggles, we are here to help you. 

Calling the Veteran Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 1, is a great way to reach out. However, it is not the only option. You can also call VAPIHCS directly at 1-800-214-1306, and then press 7 for mental health. If you would prefer to talk with a non-denominational Chaplain who can speak with you in confidence about any topic you are struggling with, you can call 808-433-0270. 

It's important to me personally that all Veterans feel welcome at VAPIHCS. Whatever you believe, however you feel about your time in service, and however you identify, you are welcome here. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you are struggling. It’s okay if you’re not okay, and we are here to help you. 

Thoughts from Chaplain Jewel Davis

Summer is here and people are probably already venturing to interesting parks. Be they national or state parks, maybe to water parks or ball parks, or perhaps to parks with a little more traction, literally, like amusement parks that have super high, fun, terrifying roller coasters. These thrill rides arrived during the 19th century when carts were interlocked and powered on railroad tracks to give their passengers exhilaratingly fast but brief rides. On average, roller coasters travel at speeds between 50 to 75 miles per hour with gravitational forces working on both their ascent and descent. As roller coasters crank uphill, they’re considerably slower than when they go speeding downward. They make sharp turns, spiral, and sometimes do inversions. All for the thrill of the ride.

Persisting against the drag that pulls backward, slowly but surely with anticipation and renewed confidence, we, like roller coasters, ascend to great heights only to summit the peaks of our accomplishments before descending into a rapid descent. But that descent is not a failure or misfortune. Rather, it’s movement in the direction of acquiring new knowledge and skills and discovering new aspirations and interests before ascending again to achieve more accomplishments.   

At times we may encounter unexpected twists and turns or feel like our world has turned upside down and left us dangling. But when things straighten and we have a moment of rest, we realize we’ve acquired essential assets to propel our next climb.

Life and careers can feel like roller coasters that ascend and descend, facing unexpected changes, and sometimes causing us to feel as if we’re going in circles, or as if things have turned upside-down and we’re disoriented. But the difficult part of the climb can also be the best opportunity to realize our potential, pursue our successes, and look forward to celebrating our next accomplishments. 

Buckle up. We’re going on some joy rides. Blessings and Mahalo.

One Team, One Ohana!
Adam M. Robinson, Jr., MD, MBA, CPE 
Director, VA Pacific Islands Health Care System
VADM, MC, USN, (RET)
36th Surgeon General, USN

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