Message from the Director

As NDVS Director, I’ve had the privilege and honor to play a role in so many heartwarming events, but last month an opportunity surfaced that made my heart soar. It’s always a nice surprise to find a photo of one of our Nevada veterans at the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home being recognized nationally! In the NATIONAL Elks Magazine of all places! No spoiler alert here! You’re going to have to look through this newsletter to find out who the resident is and what happened next. But I couldn’t be happier to be a part of something special and to see a veteran from our great State of Nevada featured nationally. 

I want to ensure I mention Veterans and Military Day at the Legislature (VAMDAL) to be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023. Veterans and military members will be the focus at this day of honor in Carson City. VAMDAL will begin at 8:00 a.m. with coffee and networking. The Opening Ceremony begins at 9:00 a.m. Both events will take place outside, behind the Nevada State Library, Archives and Public Records building on the Capitol Grounds. 

The day-long event will also feature vendors who support our veterans and military community, as well as a free catered lunch beginning at noon, all located right next to the Legislative Building. We have nearly 180 people registered for the Opening Ceremony. Wouldn’t it be terrific if we reached 200 or more? 

With the Governor being a veteran, we are so glad he will be participating in the Opening Ceremony. VAMDAL will also provide you the opportunity to meet your state legislators too. To reserve a spot for Opening Ceremony, click HERE. (This is for the Opening Ceremony ONLY!) Separate from the Opening Ceremony, if you want to learn about being paired with a state legislator to sit in either the Senate or Assembly chambers, YOU MUST contact United Veterans Legislative Council (UVLC) Chair, Andy LePeilbet, at andy@nevadaandy.com. Simply registering for the Opening Ceremony will NOT ensure you are paired to sit with a legislator! So again, contact Andy if you want to participate in the Assembly and Senate activities. VAMDAL is held in partnership with the Nevada National Guard and the UVLC.

Before that big day occurs, women veterans and military members will also have their own special day. On Friday, March 10th, the 2023 Women Veterans and Military Conference will be held at the Santa Fe Hotel Casino in Las Vegas. This conference will provide a day of networking, renewal, and comradery, along with a host of inspirational women speakers. Sign up HERE to reserve your seat.  I couldn’t be prouder of the service these veterans and those currently serving have done and are doing for our country and the State of Nevada.

Finally, the outpouring of support for residents at our State Veterans Homes has been phenomenal. Our veterans were honored through the Valentine’s Day visits and treats. We appreciate the great support from their communities, citizens and businesses alike.

What a way to set the stage for the year ahead! As always, I’m forever grateful and feel truly blessed for your amazing support of our veterans, military members and their families. 

Best regards,
Fred Wagar