Vietnam Veterans of America Sierra Nevada Chapter 989 receives Veteran Supporter of the Month Recognition and Honor

By Terri Hendry

(Carson City, NV) – Most of the seats were full inside the Old Assembly Chambers, located on the second floor of the Capitol Building, above the Governor’s Office.

Members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Sierra Nevada Chapter 989 had to save the Governor a front row seat. He slid into his chair just as Nevada Department of Nevada Services Director Kat Miller began joking about having to adjust the podium before the ceremony could begin. Her smiles and jokes quickly took a serious turn when she began highlighting just a few of the reasons this Reno VVA Chapter was selected to receive Veteran Supporter of the Month.

“This group shares a bond and a commitment that never again will one generation of veterans abandon another," Miller said. Before introducing Governor Sandoval, she read a lengthy list of ways this group provides support to the veteran community ranging from assisting those with PTSD, to supporting non-profits like the Veterans Guest House or championing veteran-friendly legislation during the Nevada Legislature.

The Governor told the group how much he respects their military service, explaining his father served in WWII. He spoke about his visits while serving as Governor to Nevada military members serving overseas and what a lasting impression that made on him. In closing, he motioned to a giant circular seal in the middle of the chamber that features the head of former President Abraham Lincoln. Sandoval said, “In the shadow of Abraham Lincoln I want to paraphrase one of his famous quotes; I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives, so that his place is proud of him."

VVA Chapter 989 President, Linda Dickinson noted the group was relatively new, having formed in 2006. She said, “We started with just 25 members and have grown to more than 150 members in the Reno and Sparks area."

For more information on the VVA Chapter 989: https://vvareno989.org/

To nominate a Veteran of the Month: http://www.veterans.nv.gov/page/veteran-of-the-month-program

To nominate a Veteran Supporter of the Month:

http://www.veterans.nv.gov/page/Veteran-Supporter-of-the-Month