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The official monthly newsletter of the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs |
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Veterans Connect Over Breakfast
A weekly breakfast in Glendora brings veterans together each Tuesday, creating a welcoming space for connection, shared experiences, and access to support.
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Honoring Vietnam War Veterans
 A luncheon at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall brought Vietnam War veterans together to recognize their service and enduring impact in honor of Vietnam Veterans Day.
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Women Behind Early Veteran Care
Women helped shape early systems of care for Veterans, laying the foundation for mental health support and long-term services still in place today.
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April is Second Chance Month
JCOD is hosting April events connecting individuals and families to resources and opportunities in recognition of Second Chance Month.
SEE CALENDAR
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March Service Spotlight
Bob Hope Patriotic Hall
2nd Floor Veteran Service Staff
"Great place to get any assistance or clarification. Hall filled with people who care."
—Demetrius Gaines
From Post-Service Feedback Submission
February Award Winners
LA County Veteran Service Award winners gain recognition, advance to the quarterly competition, and boost their professional profiles.
Veterans Service Officer:
Ana Poblete (MVA)
MVA Support Service Staff:
Javier Ybarra
Battle Buddy:
Steven Choi (VPAN SD3 - Goodwill)
DMH VMFS Support Service Staff:
Christopher Waters
Community Partner:
Julio Mares (Palmdale Veterans Center)
Creative Solution:
Sarah Vongsack (DMH VMFS)
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February Honorable Mentions
This category recognizes individuals who are nominated in a category they have already won during the current fiscal year. While they remain eligible for recognition, past recipients cannot compete in the same category more than once within a single fiscal year.
Program Manager:
Leo Chirinos (VPAN SD1 - JVS)
Battle Buddy:
Veronica Hernandez (VPAN SD1 - JVS)
MVA Support Staff:
Christina Reyes, Jorge Reynoso, and Layla Romero
DMH VMFS Support Staff:
Kathleen Jimenez
Support Line Agent:
Steve Ramos
Nominations for March
The LA County Veteran Service Awards honor those going the extra mile for veterans and families.
- Anyone in the military & veteran community can nominate and vote
- Due: April 4 (by midnight)
- Voting is the following week
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Pledge Vet: Honor Military Service
Veterans are invited to be recognized by Los Angeles County by leading the Pledge of Allegiance at a Board of Supervisors meeting. This program highlights service, connection, and community across the County.
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Featured Event
Organizations serving veterans shape access and outcomes. The Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA), in partnership with Secure Measures, offers a free 3-hour training to strengthen understanding of military culture and improve engagement with veterans.
The Understanding the Veteran Experience Training Program provides practical insight to help teams improve communication and connection.
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Earn While You Learn with the VA Work Study Program
Individuals using VA education benefits can earn income through the VA Work Study Program while enrolled in school or training, gaining experience while supporting Veteran services.
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Learn How to Keep Your Benefits with DPSS Updates
Changes to Medi-Cal and CalFresh may impact eligibility, renewals, and reporting requirements, with new policies affecting access to benefits and the steps needed to maintain coverage.
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 The Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the Warrior Heritage Foundation hosted a Vietnam Veterans Luncheon March 28, honoring service and legacy through reflection and shared experiences.
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The Whittier community welcomed home Vietnam Veterans at Liberty Plaza March 28 for a day of recognition, resources, and connection, bringing together veterans, families, and local partners in appreciation and support.
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 The March 24 breakfast at Kara’s Korner Deli in Glendora brought veterans together for coffee and conversation, as VPAN and partners connected attendees to resources in a growing weekly space for community.
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 The March 18 Veterans Advisory Commission meeting included key updates, community input, and continued efforts to strengthen support for those who served across Los Angeles County.
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 Veterans, families, and community members joined VPAN SD5 on March 14 for First on the Scene trauma training, building hands-on skills to respond effectively in emergencies and support life-saving action.
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 Leaders and partners from across Los Angeles County convened March 12 at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration to strengthen coordination and improve systems supporting justice-involved veterans across agencies.
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 March 11 marked a milestone in Lancaster as the first 2026 Veterans Treatment Court graduate was recognized, joined by the mentors, partners, and supporters who helped support the journey.
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 On March 7 at the La Verne Veterans Hall, local organizations and community partners came together to connect veterans and their families with services, resources, and ongoing support across the community.
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