Director's Veteran Message November 14, 2025
VAPIHCS Veterans, This week, we proudly celebrated Veterans Day, honoring all who have worn the cloth of our nation. Across the Pacific Islands, many of our staff at our Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) participated in special events to recognize and celebrate our Veterans.
On Oahu, I had the privilege of attending a Veterans Day event at the Oahu Vet Center, where the ceremony reflected on Hawaii’s profound role in U.S. history and military service. Last year, the City of Honolulu was designated as a Purple Heart City, recognizing the courage and sacrifice of service members who were wounded or lost their lives in combat. This designation is a meaningful reminder of the respect and gratitude our community holds for all who have served and sacrificed.
On Veterans Day and every day, we are grateful for your service and proud to provide the safe, compassionate, and high-quality care you deserve.
Diabetes Awareness Month
At the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS), we provide comprehensive support and care to those managing diabetes. Your healthcare team is committed to offering educational resources, innovative treatment options, and supportive services to improve the quality of life for Veterans living with diabetes. Learn more about reducing your risk, setting SMART Goals, monitoring your glucose levels and healthy eating habits here: https://www.nutrition.va.gov/diabetes.asp.
2025 Veterans Games
In the spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition, we celebrated our Veteran Games, the TOA Challenge in American Samoa and the KOA challenge here in Oahu. Organized by our Recreational Therapy Program and our Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) department, these games are designed to give Veterans an opportunity to compete in adaptative fitness and sports that test the mind and the body. Annually, Veterans who have been referred to our VAPIHCS Recreational Therapy program come together in fellowship and display their strength and determination with a focus on wellness and community.
Congratulations to all the athletes who participated and a special thank you to our VAPIHCS Recreational Therapy staff, CDCE staff, and all the volunteers who made these events a success.
Veteran Experience Survey Spotlight
I understand that waiting for test results can be difficult. One of the questions you may see in a SHEP survey asks:
“In the past six months, when a provider ordered a blood test, x-ray, or other test for you, how often did someone from this provider’s office follow up and give you those results?”
Your trust and peace of mind matter to us, and we are committed to keeping you informed promptly — especially when results need immediate attention. We appreciate your feedback as we continue to improve.
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 Kukuiula, Kauai, Spark Matsunaga emerged as a giant of humanity, becoming an iconic symbol of the power of perseverance, tenacity, and service. Raised in abject poverty and having to go door to door to sell tofu during his younger years, 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. His life changed when Pearl Harbor was bombed in 1941. Matsunaga petitioned to serve in the military and eventually joined 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.
Matsunaga attended Harvard Law School, graduating with honors in 1951. He then entered politics, serving seven terms in the US House of Representatives before being elected to the Senate in 1976. Known as “Senator Stamina” for his tireless work ethic, it is said that he personally read every letter sent to his office and advocated passionately for Hawaii. He 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…”
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!
Thandiwe Nelson-Brooks, MPH, FACHE
Interim Medical Center Director
VA Pacific Islands Health Care System