Announcing Our 2022 Volunteer of the Year

Each year, VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System (VASNHCS) recognizes all our Volunteers for their outstanding service to Veterans throughout northern Nevada and northeastern California. Steven’s VA Volunteer service exemplifies the selfless gift of his time after serving more than 6,300 hours.

A prior recipient of the prestigious Presidential Volunteer Service Award, Steven has remained a constant and reliable Volunteer for over 12 years at VA and, ,[HLMV1]  never stopped serving throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. A Veteran himself, he served in Vietnam in 1969-1970 as an Army Military Police Officer. After Vietnam, Steven was stationed in Virginia where he completed his military service. He moved back to southern California where he raised his children and retired from the Chula Vista School District after 35 years. Upon retiring, he and his wife of 33 years, Marcia, moved to Reno, Nevada to begin a new life.  

When asked why he chose to volunteer at VA, Steven humbly shared that, “I was a patient at VA and loved the care I received. I loved seeing the World War II and other older Veterans throughout the medical center and wanted to give back to them.” Steven wears the “red” coat and is one of our longest serving “Red Coat Ambassadors” located at the main entrance of the VA Medical Center.

Steven keeps busy in his personal life. He has two children, a daughter who lives in Ohio and a son who lives close by. He has lots of grandchildren and even two great grandchildren. He and his wife love to drive to Tahoe and explore the area. He has an extensive movie collection and especially loves action films such as the John Wick series. He is an avid marksman with a membership at a local gun range where he and his son practice weekly. He loves his recumbent bicycle and, when the weather permits, will go out for a 10-mile ride several times a week.

Steven has found the secret to success when it comes to Volunteering: Just because he’s retired doesn’t mean he should slow down. His zest for life is contagious and his love for his family and service to other Veterans is exhibited by his warm smile as one walks into VASNHCS. Yes, you can tell, even with his mask on, that Steven is smiling. So, next time you visit the VA Medical Center, and you are greeted by the tall, smiling Red Coat Ambassador, stop, say ‘hello,’ and let him know that you appreciate his gift of service and time. Congratulations, Steven, for a job well done.