Message from the Director

I want to start this newsletter by simply saying to our Vietnam Veterans, “Welcome Home.”  While I say this to all veterans who deployed, it is especially important to recognize our Vietnam Veterans as March 29th was Vietnam War Veterans Day in Nevada and throughout the nation. 

Nevada’s Vietnam Veterans of America chapters recognized Vietnam War Veterans Remembrance Day last month. I was honored to attend and participate in the ceremony hosted by Reno’s VVA Chapter #989. It was an amazing afternoon ceremony at the new Sparks Veterans Memorial. Please enjoy the photos from the event. They are from Steve Ranson who is a veteran and local reporter. He was kind enough to share his photos with us so you may enjoy them! 

I also want to thank Carson City’s VVA Chapter #388 for their morning recognition ceremony. While I was unable to make their ceremony, I was told their ceremony was a beautiful event. 

As you likely know, the third Wednesday in March, whenever the Nevada Legislature is in session is designated as Veterans Day at the Legislature. The event has grown over the years to include our military personnel. We now refer to the event as Veterans and Military Day at the Legislature (VAMDAL) and this year, VAMDAL had great attendance and was a huge success with our veteran and military members receiving the recognition and honor they deserve. 

There are a lot of people to thank for VAMDAL’s success starting with Governor Joe Lombardo, Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro and Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager who participated in the opening ceremony. I also want to thank Lt. Governor Stavros Anthony for attending. I cannot thank them enough for taking time away from their busy schedules at the legislature to recognize and pay their respects to our military and veterans’ community during this important event. 

I especially want to thank Andy LePeilbet, Chairman of the United Veterans Legislative Council (UVLC) for his relentless dedication and hard work as well as the UVLC’s support and partnership. I’d also like to thank Brigadier General Ondra Berry and the Nevada National Guard for their support and the partnership. 

A special thank you to the attendees and exhibitors.  Without you being there, VAMDAL’s success would not have been possible. You played a key role in the event’s success. We hope you had a chance to connect with your legislators regarding veterans issues that are important to you. 

Finally, for all the NDVS team members who put it all together, as every area of the department pitched in and played a role in facilitating this event. The work they did behind the scenes is immeasurable. Thank you so much. 

If you were not able to attend VAMDAL, I encourage you to check out the articles and photos in this e-newsletter. I know you will be proud of the show of force and support for our veterans, military members, and their families at our State Capitol. 

In April, NDVS events will continue.  If you live in northern Nevada, I encourage you to sign up for the April 2023 Nevada Veterans Advocate Conference. This two-day event will provide you with the tools and information you need to become a Nevada Veterans Advocate or NV Advocate. As an NV Advocate, you will be in a good position to support veterans in your community and our NDVS team. The conference will take place at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center on April 15-16 from 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. Go HERE to learn more about the conference and register to save your seat. 

Finally, Memorial Day is right around the corner, and we want to know about Memorial Day activities or events planned by your organization or in your community so we may share them in the next edition of our e-newsletter.  Please send your Memorial Day activities to Fanny Rizo at rizof@veterans.nv.gov. 

I cannot thank you enough for all you do! Your continued participation really makes a difference in the lives of the veterans and families we so proudly serve. We look forward to the month ahead and seeing you soon at an upcoming event. 

Respectfully,
Fred Wagar
NDVS Director