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It is fitting that we gather today at Arlington National Cemetery, on these hallowed, rolling hills overlooking our nation’s capital. With one sweep of the eye, we see the cost of freedom in the rows of marble headstones stretching into the distance, the final resting places of our nation’s heroes, and in the precision of the sentinels guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Britt, thanks for that kind introduction, and for your advice and counsel. And Leroy, thanks so much for the invitation to join you today, and for your leadership as President of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.
You once told an audience that our most valuable asset at VA is our people—a force of caring, compassionate, innovative professionals deeply committed to the Veterans we serve. Truer words were never said, and you are one of our most valued professionals. Thank you for your leadership.
Chaplain Willis, thanks for that kind introduction, for your leadership, and for the critical spiritual care you and your team of chaplains bring to Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors. And I’m especially grateful, Chaplain Willis, for the work you’re doing in support of the President’s National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism and Islamophobia.
It’s a tremendous honor to join so many extraordinary Veterans, VA teammates, and community leaders to celebrate the history and enduring legacy of the Tuskegee VA Hospital.
Thanks to all of our faith-based and community partners for being here today for this important event. Most importantly, thank you for your partnership and leadership in helping prevent Veteran suicide. Because there is nothing more important than saving Veterans’ lives, together.
Food has the extraordinary ability to bring people together, and nowhere is this more evident than among our Vets. The shared experience of service and sacrifice creates a unique bond.
Fifty-five years ago when Captain Cleland was grievously wounded on Hill 471 in Vietnam, Marine Charlie Waldron was one of those who helped save his life. And though Charlie couldn’t know it, when he saved Max, Charlie was saving the lives of thousands of other American Veterans.
AI is changing the health care landscape and it’s having a real impact in the lives of Vets across America. Our team is hard at work exploring how AI can help VA make better, faster, and more informed Veteran-centric decisions—improving Veteran health outcomes and benefits decisions while eliminating redundant administrative tasks and promoting collaboration across VA and with our federal and community partners.
Matt , thanks for that kind introduction and for your exceptional leadership of our National Cemetery Administration. I’m honored to join you today for this important celebration of NCA’s 50th Anniversary—five decades of excellence serving Veterans and their families.