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Veteran Voices Newsletter
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July 2026
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Greetings from your WDVA Director:
David Puente Jr.
 WDVA Hosts Washington State Military Transition & Readiness Council Relaunch
The Washington State Military Transition and Readiness Council (WSMTRC) relaunched on July 1. The Council was formed through Executive Order (initially in 2013 and an update in 2019).
The Council meets quarterly and participants are comprised of leadership from each of the military installations in the State, the Governor’s Cabinet and state agency partners, and community support organizations. It is Chaired by WDVA Director David Puente.
The Council has three purposes:
- Provide installation partners an opportunity to share their concerns, focus areas, and priorities with Washington State Governor’s Cabinet leadership and other partners
- Offer state agencies and community partners an opportunity to participate in feedback loops, hear feedback and elevate to their program areas
- A collaborative approach to identifying priorities within primary focus areas.
The primary focus areas are:
- Installation Support and Sustainability: Mission Growth, Prevent Encroachment, Infrastructure Improvements, Land Use Planning
- Military Family Quality of Life: Child Care Access, Spouse Employment/Licensure, Education/Schools, Housing
- Economic and Workforce Development: Defense Industry Growth, Transition Assistance, Veteran Hiring, Installation Workforce Needs
- Advocacy and Policy: State-Level Advocacy, Legislative Initiatives, Mental Health Support
For more information, visit www.dva.wa.gov/wsmtrc.
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Visit to The Wall That Heals: Traveling Replica Vietnam Memorial Wall
I walked the length of The Wall That Heals during its visit to Lacey, moving slowly past the more than 58,000 names etched into the traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Standing there on the field at Chambers Prairie Elementary, the space felt transformed — quiet, sacred, and heavy with reflection, grief, and healing.
While I was there, I took time to honor the Vietnam Veterans who had come to visit. One by one, I presented each of them with an official Vietnam War Commemoration Pin. Those moments were simple and quiet, but deeply meaningful. Each pin recognized their service, their sacrifice, and the decades many spent waiting for a proper welcome home.
Take a look at this short recap video taken from my visit at the wall.
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WDVA News and Current Events
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 Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards - Now Accepting Nominations
Across Washington, countless volunteers, service officers, Tribal Veterans programs, National Guard members, community advocates, and others devote themselves to supporting veterans and their families. They file benefit claims, honor grieving families with funeral support, organize community events, and spend hours assisting veterans in hospitals and long‑term care facilities.
Now is your opportunity to recognize these dedicated individuals by nominating them for one of seven Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards.
This annual awards program, sponsored by the Governor’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee (VAAC), invites honorees to take part in the Auburn Veterans Day Parade and celebrates them at a special recognition luncheon.
Award Categories
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Superior Award — The Committee’s highest honor, reserved for exceptional achievements and truly outstanding performance.
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Distinguished Service Award — Recognizes significant accomplishments and meaningful contributions to veterans and their families.
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Team Award — Honors a group whose collaborative efforts resulted in notable achievements, special projects, or exemplary service.
How to Nominate
Submit your nomination using the Nomination Form available at: https://forms.office.com/g/T2UnR4ckwj?origin=lprLink
Any individual, organization, or institution may submit a nomination. All entries must be received by September 11, 2026.
To learn more about the awards program or explore past inductees, visit the Outstanding Service To Veterans Hall of Fame | WDVA (wa.gov).
 Women Veterans Honored during Women Veterans Luncheon
Your WDVA and the Women Veterans Advisory Committee hosted the 2026 Women Veterans Celebration Luncheon at the University of Washington Tacoma, bringing Women Veterans together for an afternoon of connection, recognition, and sisterhood. This year’s theme, “A Salute to Sisterhood,” honored the strength, service, and shared experiences of women across all eras of military service.
A highlight of the program was the presentation of WDVA’s new Washington State Woman Veteran of the Year Award, with Carrol Stripling recognized as the inaugural awardee for her leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to uplifting Women Veterans statewide.
The luncheon built on the spirit of Women Veterans Day, offering a meaningful space for Women Veterans to gather, be celebrated, and strengthen the bonds that continue to shape their service and legacy.
 Korean War Commemoration Brings Community Together
Korean War Veterans were honored at the Korean War Memorial in Olympia on June 20 for the 76th Anniversary Commemoration of the Start of the Korean War.
Hosted by the Washington‑Tacoma Korean American Association and the Consul General of Korea in Seattle, the event honored the nearly 17,000 Korean War Veterans who call Washington home and marked the 33rd anniversary of the memorial’s dedication.
More than 300 attendees—including Veterans, families, and community leaders—came together to reflect on the sacrifices made during the Korean War and celebrate the enduring legacy of those who served.
More Photos: 2026.06.20 Korean War Memorial | Flickr
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What's happening at our Veterans Homes and Transitional Housing Program
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Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard
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Boxing Hits the Washington Veterans Home
The Washington State Veterans Home in Port Orchard is opening a first‑of‑its‑kind boxing gym in July—a space built exclusively for Veteran residents to train with real boxing techniques, equipment, and coaching. Inspired by another evidence‑based boxing program, designed to help Veterans improve strength, balance, coordination, and overall physical function.
Boxing-based training has been shown to support better gait stability, sharper motor control, increased endurance, and improved confidence in daily movement—benefits that can make a meaningful difference in residents’ independence and quality of life. For some Veterans living with dementia, stepping into the ring also reconnects them with long-held muscle memory, unlocking familiar stances, footwork, and routines that help restore a sense of self.
The feel-good moments and exercise opportunities will be undeniable—smiles, laughter, and shared camaraderie—but the heart of this program is its impact on physical function. Veterans are already leaving previously held sessions energized, motivated, and proud of what their bodies can still do.
Check out this short video of a recent workout
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Walla Walla Veterans Home
Honoring Service Through Serenity: WWVH Veterans Launch Water Feature Legacy Project
A team of WWVH's distinguished Veterans (the "Resident Council") launched a fundraising campaign for construction of a pondless water fall feature, surrounded by shrubbery and small trees, situated in a large custom-designed cement raised garden bed with a natural cultured-stone exterior finish. Check out the entire live ceremony
The Veterans' purpose in this venture is to honor (for decades to come) all past, present, and future Veterans who live here at WWVH, and the dedicated staff who show up with big hearts 24/7, 365, to serve those who served.
Initially envisioned by resident Veteran Bob J, and driven forward by our Veterans every step of the way, development of this project is nearly two years in the making! Bob hopes to "enhance the beauty of this campus with a water feature that will provide a natural space for peace and reflection". Yesterday's kickoff was organized by resident Veteran David K. who did a fabulous job planning and promoting the event. The day was made extra special by the attendance of Bob Brock and his Patriot Jeep, Dixie Ferguson and Volunteers Love Serving Veterans, and a group of amazing combat Veterans who consistently show up in support of Vets in the Walla Walla valley. We hope you enjoy this video from the kickoff.
If you're interested in supporting WWVH Veterans with a donation to their water feature project, please contact jamie.vanausdle@dva.wa.gov. Or, you can drop off or mail a contribution to:
Walla Walla Veterans Home
VETERANS WATER FEATURE PROJECT
92 Wainwright Drive
Walla Walla, WA 99362
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Washington Soldiers Home in Orting
Country Gardeners Blue Star Marker Site Beautification Project
The Washington Soldiers Home in Orting recently welcomed members of the Country Gardeners for a hands-on beautification project along the Nursing Care Facility walkway. Volunteers refreshed the Blue Star Marker site with new plantings, fresh mulch, and thoughtful landscaping touches that brighten the path used daily by residents, families, and staff.
This community-led effort honors Veterans by creating a peaceful, welcoming space that reflects gratitude and pride. The Washington Soldiers Home extends heartfelt appreciation to the Country Gardeners for their dedication and the care they brought to this meaningful project.
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Spokane Veterans Home
SVH Residents Attend Practice Day at Airway Heights
What an unforgettable day for our Veterans at the Spokane Veterans Home earlier this month!
After welcoming U.S. Air Force Airmen for a special visit, our Veterans attended practice day at the air show at Airway Heights. The highlight? One of the pilots gave a special shoutout to our Veterans over the loudspeaker while flying, announcing that he would be stopping by to visit them after his performance.
True to his word, he came straight over after landing, spending time with our Veterans, presenting one of our residents, Gary, with the patch from his own flight uniform, and giving every Veteran a commemorative patch. He even boarded the bus to personally thank those who had gotten a little chilly for coming out to support the event.
The day was filled with smiles, memories, and plenty of cameras—including one that caught Gary making the news!
Thank you to everyone who made this incredible experience possible and to the Airmen who took the time to honor those who served before them
More Photos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JvLcRmB6t/
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Transitional Housing Program
Transitional Housing Program Visits the Ballpark
Nothing beats an evening at the ballpark!
Residents from our Transitional Housing Program enjoyed a special outing to Heroes in the Ballpark at Cheney Stadium, where the Tacoma Rainiers took on the Las Vegas Aviators. The event provided an opportunity for Veterans to relax, connect, and enjoy America's favorite pastime together.
A special thank you to Mike Harrison for providing transportation and to Port Orchard VFW Post 2669 for generously donating the tickets and making this memorable experience possible.
Moments like these remind us of the power of community and the importance of creating opportunities for Veterans to connect, have fun, and feel supported.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this day at the ballpark a home run for our Veterans
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View all available career opportunities with WDVA
National Service Opportunity - AmeriCorps Opportunity
Join AmeriCorps as a VetCorps Member and help strengthen Washington’s Veteran community.
VetCorps members provide peer support to Veterans and military families, helping them navigate education, employment, healthcare access, and disability benefits. You’ll serve at one of up to 15 sites statewide, organize community service projects, connect Veterans to critical resources, and make a direct impact during one of the most important transitions of their lives. Veterans, spouses, and dependents receive priority consideration.
Monthly stipend: $1,942. Rolling interviews begin in late July.
Learn more and apply now: https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?id=130106
Available Veterans Conservation Corps Internships
The Veterans Conservation Corps (VCC) offers Washington State Veterans a powerful opportunity to heal, grow, and give back through hands-on environmental work. Whether you're looking for a new way to serve your community, want to develop skills in conservation or agriculture, or just want to connect with nature, VCC provides meaningful connection and pathways to purpose and well-being.
Grays Harbor Conservation District (Elma)
Lewis Conservation District (Chehalis)
Thurston Conservation District (Tumwater)
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Events & Observances Calendar
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Register now for the 2026 Serving Those Who Served Conference in Wenatchee
Registration is open for the 2026 Serving Those Who Served Conference, held August 19–20 at the Wenatchee Convention Center. This year’s theme, “Save and Transform Lives,” underscores our commitment to strengthening support for Veterans and their families.
Join Veteran‑serving professionals from across Washington for two days of collaboration, learning, and practical tools to enhance your impact.
Event Snapshot
- 📅 August 19–20, 2026
- 📍 Wenatchee Convention Center
- 🕒 8:00 am–5:00 pm
- 🎯 Audience: Veteran resource providers
Past sessions have featured employment partnerships, WorkSource navigation, creative therapies, VA updates, and Veterans benefits. The 2026 program builds on this foundation with fresh sessions designed to inform and inspire.
Registration is now open at the link below: https://www.eventsquid.com/event.cfm?id=31431
Check out our WDVA Director's official video invite
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Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) will host a Women Veterans Forum from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. and a Veterans Resource Fair & Community Conversation from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the Grant County Fairgrounds 4H Building (Red Gate), located at 3953 Airway Drive NE, Moses Lake, WA. If interested in joining virtually, please contact RSVP to Sue.LaVoie@dva.wa.gov or 360-485-1158.
This triple event is presented by the Governor’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee (VAAC) and the Women Veterans Advisory Committee (WVAC).
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8:30 AM - 9:30 AM - Women Veterans Forum: The Washington Women Veterans Advisory Committee (WVAC) is calling all women Veterans for a in-person “She Served” forum. They want to listen and discuss the needs of Women Veterans in the region and how they can improve access to the benefits they have earned.
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10:00 AM - 11:45 AM - Resource Provider Roundtable: Share how your organization serves Washington Veterans and participates in a community conversation to identify gaps and opportunities. All are welcome for this important discussion! Please RSVP to Sue.LaVoie@dva.wa.gov or 360-485-1158.
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12:00 PM - 1:30 PM - Veterans Resource Fair: Veterans and families are invited to stay for a Veterans Resource Fair! Visit 1-on-1 with service providers, advocates, and leaders.
More Info: Please attend the Grant County Veterans Resource Fair and Women Veterans Forum - July 15, 2026 | WDVA
 Washington Veterans Home (Retsil) in Port Orchard is hosting Free Family Fun Fest for its 3rd year, and you're invited!
Join us on July 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for a day full of free, family-friendly fun. We are celebrating 116 years of community with our Veterans, active duty Military, First Responders, and you!
Location: Washington State Veterans Home (1141 Beach Dr E, Port Orchard, WA 98366)
Bring the whole family and enjoy:
- Free hot dogs and popcorn
- Carnival games
- Bounce houses
- Face painting
- Make-and-take crafts
Parking & Transportation
Onsite parking is reserved for families with young children. Staff will be available to help direct traffic. Free parking and a continuous shuttle will run from 9:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. from two locations:
The last shuttle from the Veterans Home departs at 2:30 p.m.
Public Transit Option
Kitsap Transit Route #9 Port Orchard provides service directly to campus.
Don’t miss this fun, free community event. We hope to see you there!
YesVets National Hire‑a‑Vet Day Job and Resource Fair
Calling veterans, service members, and their families!
Your next career opportunity awaits at the National Hire‑a‑Vet Day Job and Resource Fair on July 15, 2026 at Mt. Tahoma High School in Tacoma.
Get resume and interview help on-site and connect with employers ready to hire. This in‑person event is open to Veterans, transitioning service members, Guard and Reserve members, military spouses and military families.
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Hot August Night at Washington Soldiers Home
A Free Community Car Show & Summer Celebration
The Washington Soldiers Home in Orting is gearing up for an unforgettable summer evening as Hot August Night returns on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. This free community event brings together car enthusiasts, families, veterans, and neighbors for an evening of connection, music, and classic Americana.
Located at 1301 Orting Kapowsin Hwy E, Orting, WA 98360, the grounds will come alive with:
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Car & Motorcycle Clubs — Showcasing unique builds, restorations, and crowd favorites
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Military Vehicles — A chance to explore historic and modern equipment up close
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Live Music — Setting the perfect summer soundtrack
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Car Show Awards — Celebrating standout entries
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Food Trucks — Serving local favorites and festival treats
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Admissions & WDVA Program Info Tables — Learn more about services and opportunities available to Veterans and families
Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets and spend time connecting with Residents and fellow community members.
Registration is available via the event QR code. For questions, contact TerryN@dva.wa.gov.
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Veterans Training Support Center - Upcoming workshops
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WDVA Program and Campaign Videos
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Veterans Programs Spotlight
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 Heroes Drive Here: Purchase an Armed Forces License Plate
When an active-duty service member on the verge of relocating across the country suddenly lost a child in a tragic accident, the family was faced with making hurried end-of-life decisions no parent should have to make.
During that experience the family learned about burial options through the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs at the State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake. Because of the family’s military service, and funding from Armed Forces License Plate proceeds, they could inter their child and have peace of mind knowing their loved one would be cared for in perpetuity, and that long after their military career is over the parents would be able to be laid to rest beside their child.
The cemetery’s services ensure not only that Veterans can rest in dignity, but that their closest loved ones can join them.
“When this service member’s time comes, the veteran and spouse will be reunited with their child in their final repose as a family,” said David Puente Jr., director of the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA).
This scenario is one of countless former service members and families whose lives have been touched by the State Veterans Cemetery and other WDVA support programs, which are made possible by funding from WDVA’s Armed Forces License Plates. Available to veterans and their loved ones, these Washington veteran license plates not only honor military service but also direct proceeds back to veterans and families who have given everything.
Read more at: How You Can Support Washington Veterans with an Armed Forces License Plate | Tacoma News Tribune
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