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Sierra Vista Veterans Connect with VA Services at Local VetFest

Two men seated at a table filling out paperwork.
Army Veterans Alex Hernandez and Jonathan Moncivaiz complete their VA Form 10-10EZ applications for VA healthcare.
By Jaison Bloom, Public Affairs Officer

The Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) outreach team, along with members from the Sierra Vista Community-Based Outpatient Clinic and community partners, hosted a VetFest event at VFW Post 9972 to connect Veterans with VA services.

The Veteran population in rural Cochise County primarily consists of Vietnam-era Veterans who often faced unwelcoming receptions upon their return. This historical stigma continues to affect their willingness to seek assistance from the government and VA. Peer specialist Rosemary Griffin remarked, “They don't look at the VA as a means to helping them get housing or getting well again mentally or physically.”

SAVAHCS outreach events provide a wide range of services to Veterans and their communities. Younger Veterans, such as Jonathan Moncivaiz and Alex Hernandez, attended to review their disability ratings and explore VA healthcare options. Moncivaiz highlighted a common misconception, stating, “You think it's automatic, but it’s two separate things.”

Hernandez also shared his gratitude for returning to Arizona, where he found Veteran Service Organizations to be accessible and helpful. He emphasized the need for clearer guidance, stating, “It needs to be more step-by-step, have an explanation of the services and be asked what we’re interested in. We need help to make sure we follow through properly.”

According to Griffin, many Veterans in the area discover available VA programs through the crisis line. She explained, “They’re service connected and looking for a realtor, but they don't know that they can get medical care, so we integrate them and send them in the right direction. Our motto should be, ‘When I needed someone, the VA is there.’”

The Sierra Vista VetFest is part of a broader initiative by VA to host similar events throughout Southern Arizona. These efforts aim to inform Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors about available resources and assist them in accessing the health care and benefits they've earned through their service. As the VA continues its mission to support those who have served, events like the Sierra Vista VetFest play a crucial role in bridging the gap between Veterans and the services they deserve.