Honoring Navy Veteran Wendell Newman and Information Fair

At the event, Navy Veteran Wendell Newman was honored. Newman fought in WWII and was part of the D-day landing in Normandy, France. Dr. Adam Robinson, director VAPIHCS, presented Newman with a coin from the Secretary of the VA, Denis McDonough. 

“We are delighted to be here to honor you today and to show you that you are still loved and revered by all of us at the VA -and actually in the United States- for your sacrifices and your service,” said Dr. Robinson. “Thank you very much, sir.” 

Dr. Robinson also read a letter from Secretary McDonough in which the Secretary expressed his gratitude for Newman’s service, and for the patriotism of the generation which has been named “The Greatest Generation.” A large crowd was present, and after the presentation of the coin, Newman was presented with a cake in honor of his upcoming birthday in November, when he will turn 101. Newman did not give a speech, but he did take the microphone to thank everyone for being there, and for honoring him and celebrating his birthday. 

The information fair in the lobby of the ACC took place from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. where VAPIHCS Services and Programs set up tables, and community partners also attended. From VAPIHCS, there was a table for Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). There was also a table for Caregiver Support, and the Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) were handing out golf shirts. Women’s Health had a table set up, and Chaplain Jewel Davis was there as well. 

Community partners included Honolulu Federal Credit Union, US Vets, Bright Star Home Care, Catholic Charities of Hawaii, the Refugee and Immigration Law Clinic, The Broker realty and home loan company, the Red Cross, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Harosky Homes mortgage brokers. Also present was the Department of Labor’s Workforce Development Division as well as the City and County of Honolulu American Job Center, which are both located in the same building. Each table had detailed information about what they offer Veterans, and many Veterans stopped to talk and to collect fliers and other materials. 

“We actually do informational brunches to help Veterans understand how VA home loans work,” said Real Estate Agent Apolla Benito. “A lot of people don’t understand what benefits they qualify for or how they work. As experts, we can break it down for them, answer questions, and dispel myths.” 

Events are held at the ACC often. In fact, on Monday, July 22, 2024, there will be a Chaplain and Tea event from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the lobby. Refreshments will be served. Chaplain and Tea events are not just for people who want to learn more about religion. Chaplains are able to talk with Veterans about whatever is on their mind, and also to support their spiritual journey however they desire. 

Another upcoming event is the Summer Vet Fest. This event will be August 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic in Kapolei. This informal event will feature food, music, and games. Veterans are invited to bring family, caregivers, and friends to join in the fun. VAPIHCS services and programs will also be available if Veterans, caregivers, or family have questions. For example, there has been a recent change to the care giver application. 

“There is a new version of the 101CG application out now,” said Caregiver Coordinator Adam Fabel. “This is the application for people who will be formal caregivers to Veterans, who are paid by the program. We are happy to answer any questions that people have.” 

Many programs like Caregiver Support have recent changes. Applications and policies are continually being updated. Veterans, caregivers, and family should always feel welcome to come to VAPIHCS events or come into VAPIHCS clinics to ask questions. They may also call 1-800-214-1306 and speak to our knowledgeable call center personnel who can assist them with a wide range of questions and needs.