2023 Veterans and Military Day at the Legislature

Veterans Day at the Legislature is outlined in NRS 236.047. It designates the third Wednesday in March, when the Nevada Legislature is in session, as a day of recognition for the contributions veterans have made to the prosperity of Nevada and the United States. The day of honor takes place in Carson City at the Legislature and Capitol Grounds. Since its inception, it has grown to include military members too and is now referred to as Veterans and Military Day at the Legislature or VAMDAL. The event is held by the Nevada Department of Veterans Services in partnership with the Nevada National Guard and the United Veterans Legislative Council (UVLC).

This year, VAMDAL was held on March 15, 2023. A crowd filled the lobby of the Nevada State Library, Archives and Public Records building for the opening ceremony. The program was emceed by NDVS Director Fred Wagar. The Nevada Army National Honor and Color Guard presented the colors. NVNG Airforce TSgt. Mychel Christian performed the National Anthem. Veterans Services Commission Chairman Mike Musgrove led the Pledge of Allegiance. The Invocation was provided by Northern Nevada State Veterans Home Chaplain, Greg Watson. Speakers included Governor Joe Lombardo, Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro, and Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager.

Additionally, Governor Lombardo signed a proclamation in honor of the late United Veterans Legislative Council Chairman Tony Yarbrough. The proclamation was received by Tony Yarbrough’s son, Mark and his wife. See photos below.

VAMDAL also included activities on the Assembly and Senate floors with veterans being honored and seated with lawmakers. The UVLC, specifically Chairman Andy LePeilbet coordinated this portion of the day.

The ceremony also included recognition of the Veterans of the Month, Veteran Supporters of the Month and the Youth Serving Veterans Award recipient. (See more about this ceremony, along with information and photos of the recipients in this e-newsletter)

Thank you to all participants and attendees for making VAMDAL 2023 a big success. Please enjoy photos from the day provided by NDVS staff and U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Walter H. Lowell, Nevada National Guard Public Affairs Office.

Don’t forget to learn more about the Veterans of the Month, Veteran Supporters of the Month and the Youth Serving Veterans Award recipient in the next story!

Enjoy the VAMDAL crowd, ceremony photos, and also proclamation signing in honor of Tony Yarbrough.