Veterans Affairs Deputy Secretary Visits Southern Cemetery

On November 6, 2022, the Veterans Affairs Deputy Secretary, Donald Remy visited the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery (SNVMC) which allowed time for NDVS to address achievements and challenges facing veterans in Nevada.  Scheduled the same day was a visit by National American Legion Commander Troiola that happened to coincide with the Deputy Secretary’s visit.  Both were given tours of the State Veterans Cemetery which allowed them to see the grounds, including the area that is to be expanded as approved by the VA. 

Preparation for expansion of the cemetery is underway. The project will add approximately five acres and add more than 10,000 in-ground plots and columbarium wall niches.  Superintendent Chris Naylor reinforced the fact that the SNVMC is the second busiest State Veterans Cemetery in the Nation; this expansion is desperately needed, and the VA’s support of this project is greatly appreciated.   

NDVS Director Wagar noted this visit not only gave NDVS a chance to show the cemetery, but also gave him a chance to address other achievements including the ongoing expansion of the Southern Nevada State Veterans Home in Boulder City,  the initiation of the Nick Crombie Certified Nursing Assistant Academy and the creation of the Nevada Transition Assistance Program (NVTAP). 

Director Wagar stated, “It is always beneficial when you can visit one-on-one with the VA leadership and have a chance to discuss achievements and challenges facing the veterans of Nevada.” 

Photo – Left to Right:   

Dr. Everett Kelley, AFGE National President; Deputy Secretary, Department of Veterans Affairs Donald Remy; NDVS Director Fred Wagar, National American Legion Commander Vincent J. “Jim” Troiola; American Legion Past Nevada Department Commander Jim Stewart; Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery Superintendent Chris Naylor