In this edition:
Greetings from your WDVA Director:
David Puente
At the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA), we believe that honoring our Veterans doesn’t end with their service, it continues in how we care for them and their families, even after their final salute. Today, I’m proud to share an important milestone in that commitment.
The State Veterans Cemetery at Medical Lake is expanding its columbarium section, a long-planned project rooted in respect, foresight, and service to our Veteran community. This meaningful addition of eight new walls, offering approximately 5,000 niches, ensures we can continue meeting the interment needs of Washington’s Veterans and their families for years to come.
This expansion reflects WDVA’s enduring promise to provide a dignified, peaceful resting place for those who served. It also stands as a testament to the care and dedication of Cemetery Director Rudy Lopez and his exceptional team, whose dedication made this possible.
We invite you to learn more about the State Veterans Cemetery and to visit this sacred space, where gratitude and remembrance live on.
Visitation Hours: 8am – Sunset, 7 days/week Note: Severe winter weather may limit access on weekends.
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Closed for State Holidays)
Learn more: Cemetery | WDVA
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WDVA News and Current Events
Veterans Town Hall and a Women Veterans Forum
 Walla Walla County - Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) will host a Women Veterans Forum from 8:30 to 9:30 and a Veterans Town Hall from 10:00 to 12:30 on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Mathew Fazzari VFW Post 992, located at 102 N. Colville St., Walla Walla 99362. If joining virtually, please register now.
This double event is presented by the Governor’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee (VAAC) and the Women Veterans Advisory Committee (WVAC).
 Veterans Day is a time to honor and celebrate the service of those who’ve worn our nation’s uniform. WDVA is building a statewide calendar of events to help communities connect, reflect, and show appreciation.
If your organization is hosting a Veterans Day event, whether it’s a ceremony, parade, resource fair, or community gathering we’d love to include it.
Please upload your event to WDVA Event Submission and send event details and flyers to communications@dva.wa.gov
Visit 2025 Veterans Day Events & Observances | WDVA for Veterans Day events and observances throughout Washington.
September Highlights: WDVA in Motion
In case you missed it, here’s a quick roll-up of WDVA activities from September:
Spokane County Takes Action: 200 Suicide Prevention Emblems Bought to Support Veterans | WDVA
September 2025 Update to Tri-Cities Veterans Community on the Proposed Tri-Cities State Veterans Cemetery | WDVA
WDVA Honored with 2025 Pillars of Excellence Award for ArtsWA WAM Grant Innovation | WDVA
 To learn more, visit VA.gov Home | Veterans Affairs
Washington Veterans Home
Residents and staff at WVH had the privilege of welcoming The American Legion National Commander, Dan K. Wiley, during his recent visit to Washington. Commander Wiley toured the campus, met with veterans and caregivers, and shared his appreciation for their service and sacrifice.
His presence was a meaningful reminder of the strong ties between national leadership and local veteran communities.
Click the link to watch the Washington Veterans Home Foster Dog Program Video: WVH Foster Dog Program
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Washington Soldiers Home in Orting
Residents from the Washington Soldiers Home headed to the WA State Fair to join in its 125th birthday celebration. With volunteers and staff by their side, they strolled through the fairgrounds, taking in the buzz of the crowd, the sights and sounds, and the mouthwatering smell of fair food drifting through the air.
Big thanks to the WA State Fair for donating admission tickets and heartfelt appreciation to the volunteers from Puyallup Elks, PNW Vets, JBLM, community members, and WDVA staff who made the day possible.
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Walla Walla Veterans Home
We’re honored to celebrate Harold (104) and Ed (102), two extraordinary WWII Veterans, alongside fellow WWVH residents who enjoyed a truly memorable experience.
Thanks to the entire WWVH team for making it happen, with special appreciation to Walla Walla Regional Airport, Flying Legends, and Wings Over Walla Walla for their continued dedication to our Veterans.
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Spokane Veterans Home
To beat the heat, our residents took aim in a refreshing round of Squirt-a-Mole! Armed with squirt bottles, our veterans showed off their coordination and reflexes as they waited for staff to pop up through a tarp, then let the water fly!
Not only was it a blast, but the game also offered great opportunities for physical movement, hand-eye coordination, and a few well-earned laughs.
We love finding creative ways to keep our veterans cool, active, and smiling.
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