Director's Message November 8, 2024

Veterans Day is a solemn occasion to honor and express gratitude to those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. At the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System, we honor Veterans every day through the care and opportunities we provide. On this day, the nation joins us, and we all celebrate service to our nation together. Veterans Day gives us a precious opportunity to reflect on what it means to give service to a nation tested by terrorism, hardship, and war. 

Since the days of General George Washington and the Continental Army, our Veterans have come from all walks of life, representing the great diversity and character of our great nation. These individuals exemplify the highest standards of service - at home and abroad, at sea and ashore, in combat, and in times of peace. They are the backbone of our nation, demonstrating a fighting spirit and dedication that makes our military second to none.

To all our Veterans, past and present, we thank you, we honor you, and we remember always what you've done for us. Your service represents an unbroken chain, linking Americans generation to generation, and keeping the ethos of our nation and the devotion to our constitution central to our freedom and way of life. Each Veteran is a link in a sacred chain of patriots that have stood in defense of our constitution and the country for which it stands. Our Veterans understand that service and sacrifice is the cost of our freedom, and they pay this price without reservation or hesitation.

Finally, our tribute would not be complete without recognizing the families of those who serve. When our military members deploy abroad, they leave behind their loved ones to carry on in their absence. To those who have held down the home front while their loved ones were away: we salute you today, as well.

Veterans Day is not just about the past; it's about the present and the future. Our nation continues to draw strength from those who have served, those who are serving today, and those who will serve tomorrow. This unbroken line of service ensures that our nation remains the world's greatest force for stability and peace. As we honor our Veterans today, let us recommit ourselves to keeping our sacred obligation as a nation. Let us ensure that those who have worn the cloth of our nation receive the honor, respect, and opportunities that are granted to them in recognition of their service. At VA Pacific Islands Health Care System, we are dedicated to ensuring they receive the safe, compassionate, and quality health care that they have earned and deserve. 

As a Veteran who served for 36 years in the United States Navy, I implore Veterans to take advantage of VA services, and of all the benefits you earned through your service. That’s what we are here for. May God bless our Veterans, their families, and the United States of America – and may God give us the strength and the wisdom to realize and commit to our nation as the shining light on the hill for all.

Thoughts from Chaplain Richie Charles

Spark Matsunaga, the son of a priest and the great-great-grandson of a samurai warrior, was not only a twice wounded decorated war Veteran himself, but an avid devotee of the promotion of peace.Born on October 8, 1916, in Kukui’ula, Kauai, Spark Matsunaga would emerge as a giant of humanity, becoming an iconic symbol of the power of perseverance, tenacity, and service. Raised in abject poverty, having to go from door to door to sell tofu, Matsunaga rose to the highest legislative halls of the nation, advocating for the interests of the beloved state, country, and Veterans he loved.

After graduating from the University of Hawaii, Matsunaga joined the U.S. Army, but his life changed when Pearl Harbor was bombed in 1941. Despite prejudice against Japanese Americans, Matsunaga remained steadfast in his loyalty. When Japanese Americans, including Matsunaga’s family, were sent to internment camps, he petitioned to serve, eventually joining the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the most decorated unit in U.S. military history. Matsunaga earned the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts for his service.

After the war, Matsunaga attended Harvard Law School and entered politics, serving seven terms in the House before being elected to the Senate in 1976. Known as “Senator Stamina” for his tireless work ethic, he personally read every letter sent to his office and advocated passionately for Hawaii. Spark Matsunaga once said, “I want to be remembered as a friend of the peacemakers. I want to be remembered as a friend of Veterans, for without them, we would never be able to enjoy the fruits of democracy.”

This Veteran’s Day, let us in gratitude remember the countless Veterans who, like Spark Matsunaga, served and sacrificed to preserve our freedoms and contribute immensely to our nation. 

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

Stay Informed

Website: https://www.va.gov/pacific-islands-health-care/ submit your email to get our updates
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VAPacificIslands/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/va_pacific_islands/
Podcast: https://vapihcspao.podbean.com/