Phoenix VA Supports Local Stand Down for Veterans
The Phoenix VA Health Care System participated in the 2024 Wickenburg Stand Down sponsored by the American Legion Post 12 and Wickenburg Elk's Lodge #2160 in Wickenburg, Ariz., on Jan. 20 to bring VA services to over 200 Veterans in the local area.
The theme for the event was “Bringing VA Services to You.”
Phoenix VA deputy director Michael Welsh addressed the attendees in his opening remarks by saying, “Today, we give back to those Veterans that have given so much for us. It is important for us to do these kinds of events and reach out to Veterans the very best we can.”
The Phoenix VA partnered with other community-based associations, county and state service offices, as well as other Arizona-based local businesses to join together to offer critical help with food, shelter and housing, grooming, clothing, health and therapy counseling benefit services and legal and employment assistance.
Tom Core, the American Legion Post 12 Commander, said, “The day was devoted to standard VA Healthcare awareness, focusing on bringing VA services to Wickenburg Veterans. Every Veteran is important to our Wickenburg community, and we stand here today and honor their service and sacrifice. If we can help give them valuable VA Health Care information, clothing assistance, and a free meal, then we have done our job.”
The entire day was filled with activities built around “giving back” to Veterans, starting with the national anthem and opening ceremony at 9:00 a.m. The remainder of the day focused on providing Veterans with information on VA resources and healthcare benefits available to them. Dental, housing and clothing volunteers were also on site to answer questions and distribute donated items gathered from the surrounding communities. The highlight of the event was a “free” barbecue lunch provided to the Veterans in appreciation of their service to their country.
"This is a great event and I look forward to coming every year. It allows us to get the latest information on VA programs like the Pact Act,” said a local Veteran, Gary Walker. “This is a beautiful day and I love the fact I get to spend it with other Veterans.”
The distinguished speaker was SGM Alfred L. McMichael (Retired), the 14th Sergeant Major of the United States Marine Corps, he was also the 1st Command Sergeant Major of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 2003. He said, “Today, is a great day to be an American, these events are a great way to give back to those Veterans who have served before us.”