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Start: Friday, July 11, 2025, 10:00 p.m. ET
End: Sunday, July 13, 2025, 3:00 p.m. ET

Sisters in Service, A Celebration of Women Veterans In Service

On June 7, 2025, VCBHCS celebrated Women Veterans Recognition Day with Major General Salinas. We appreciate and honor the valor of women Veterans.
On June 7, 2025, the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System celebrated Women Veterans Recognition Day. Keynote speaker Major General Angela Salinas inspired attendees. The Mercedes High School All-Female ROTC presented colors. Breakout sessions featured topics like perimenopause, MST awareness, Tai Chi, and self-defense. The event celebrated the resilience and achievements of women Veterans.

By Anaia Funtanilla, Public Affairs Specialist

On Saturday, June 7, 2025, the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System celebrated the incredible contributions of women Veterans with a special event in honor of Women Veterans Recognition Day.

This significant day marks the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, signed by President Harry S. Truman on June 12, 1948.

The event was especially memorable thanks to keynote speaker Major General Angela Salinas, a pioneering two-star Marine Corps General and the current CEO of Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas. Major General Salinas, known for breaking numerous barriers, served as Commanding General of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego/Western Recruiting Region, among other prominent roles. The ceremony began with a beautiful presentation of colors by the Mercedes High School All-Female ROTC, followed by the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance.

Retired SFC Oscar Olvera and his wife Roxanne, a VA staff member who works in the Whole Health department, had the opportunity to speak with the female cadets who were able to stay and listen to Major General Salinas. “The others left as they hold part-time jobs to help family,” he noted. The cadets were all impressed by the keynote speaker, but one cadet, Diana, was particularly moved. "As I saw her stand up there with such confidence and grace, I felt inspired to be just like her. I want to accomplish her goals and become someone important that can make a difference for people like us," Diana stated. This sentiment from Diana, a highly intelligent and soft-spoken individual not easily influenced by others, resonated deeply with the Olveras. Hearing her say this helped them realize the significant impact female Veterans can and should have on young women in the community.

"I am happy to share that she is planning to enlist after completing her senior year," said Roxanne. "On behalf of Retired SFC Oscar Olvera and myself, thank you for allowing the Mercedes JROTC all-female cadet color guard to be a part of this special event."

Other community partners, including the Veteran Peer Center, showed immense support, and Cornerstone Caregiving generously contributed to the giveaways. Various VCB services, including Tele-Mental Health, the Caregiver Program, Whole Health, and others, had tables set up with educational health information for Veterans.

Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a range of breakout sessions tailored to their interests. Conference A featured sessions like "Things Your Mother Didn’t Tell You: Perimenopause/Menopause" by Lorrie Cuartas, "Pelvic Floor Therapy Throughout the Lifespan" by Maiela Garza, and the "Clothesline Art Project on MST Awareness" led by Karen Lara. Conference B offered "Tai Chi/Qi Gong" by Roxanne Ramirez-Olvera, an "Interactive Self-Defense" session with Rene Azocar, and insights into small business startups from Angela Burton, SBA Director.

The event also featured refreshments, with Olive Garden providing a delicious lunch, Dutch Bros supplying coffee and creamers, and Veteran Females United (VFU) graciously contributing cupcakes. The day was a wonderful opportunity to highlight the resilience and achievements of women Veterans, fostering a sense of community and empowerment through education and support.