To my fellow veterans, families, and veteran advocates,
As we move into July, I want to thank the leaders of our veteran’s community for coming together for virtual meetings during the past few months. The information you have shared about what is happening during this public health crisis in our communities has been tremendously valuable as NDVS prepares for the upcoming 2021 Nevada Legislative Session. If you represent a state or national veterans organization and are not aware of these meetings, please reach out to David Johnson at
johnsond@veterans.nv.gov to be included.
This past weekend marked the 1st Anniversary of the Northern Nevada Gold Star Family Memorial, located on the grounds of the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home. We are forever grateful for these families and for all those who help keep the sacrifices of our families top of mind.
Let me say a few words about our Veterans Homes. Mirroring what is occurring statewide, there has been an increase in COVID-19 positive test results at both state veteran homes. We are testing every resident and every staff member weekly or more often, and as a result, we have early identification of those that have contracted the virus.
Most of our residents and staff testing positive for COVID-19 are asymptomatic or exhibit mild symptoms, and at this point none are in critical condition. However, we know how dangerous this disease is, and because of the risk to our elderly residents, our medical professionals are maintaining an extremely close watch on them, providing the best care possible. Our nursing staff remains vigilant in their adherence to CDC infection control protocols and, in many instances, are going above and beyond what is required in order to protect our residents. As we are all learning, this is definitely a marathon, especially for those working with our elder veterans and their spouses.
We continue to appreciate the outpouring of support the community has shown for our veterans and state veteran homes. Currently, we are seeking size small N95 masks. There is a current nation-wide shortage so if you know someone who is sitting on a stash of these, please contact Kurt Green at
greenk@veterans.nv.gov.
At other NDVS locations, we are carefully resuming previously suspended operations, such as cremation burials and interments at our Veterans Memorial Cemeteries. Resumption of full operations will allow families to pay final honors to our veterans in a way that appropriately recognizes their service to our nation. Please understand, however, that while most are ready to get back to normal, this is not “business as usual." We are taking the necessary measures to ensure the safety of visitors and guests. We are requiring visitors to wear face coverings, maintain a physical distance of six feet from each other (except for immediate family) and keep gatherings to 50 people or less.
As the State continues to reopen, I ask that you please remain safe by wearing face coverings and practice physical distancing. Your health is worth any inconvenience.
Respectfully,
Kat Miller
