Greetings from your WDVA Director: David Puente Jr.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: You Matter
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and your Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) Suicide Prevention and SSG Fox teams invite all staff to join us in recognizing the importance of suicide prevention, not only this month, but every day.
This month, we are highlighting our Governor’s Challenge#YouMatter campaign as a reminder that connection can be lifesaving. Each of us has an opportunity to make a difference for the Service Members, Veterans, and Families (SMVF) we serve across Washington State.
Connection Can Save a Life
Sometimes, a person may not seem like themselves. They may become withdrawn, overwhelmed, unusually quiet, or simply appear to be struggling. In those moments, being present matters. Take a moment to reflect on our LEARN Suicide Prevention Training and ask, “Are you OK?”
A simple question can open the door to a meaningful conversation. Listening with compassion, without judgment, and letting someone know they are not alone can make a powerful difference.
WDVA Receives National 2026 Abraham Lincoln Pillars of Excellence Award for Foster Dog Program
Foster Dog Program at Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard honored for innovative Resident-led partnership with Kitsap Humane Society
The Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) announced it has received the 2026 Abraham Lincoln Pillars of Excellence Award for the Foster Dog Program at the Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard. The award recognizes the program’s innovative, Resident-led partnership with the Kitsap Humane Society that places senior shelter dogs in a resident-run foster home, improving quality of life for both Veterans and animals.
“Our Veterans, who have contributed through their military service, still have a desire to give back to their country and community, even if it is simply saving one dog at a time. It is amazing to see what they have accomplished in spite of their cognitive and physical challenges. They still have a “need to be needed,” as we all do, and are doing something about it.”
This story comes via TVW: In the 1890s, a couple from Orting sold their land and home to the government for one dollar. One hundred and thirty years later, what now stands in its place is a 174-acre campus supporting veterans through long-term convalescent care, transitional housing, and tiny homes for those unhoused--all backed by the Washington state constitution. This Field Report episode offers a glimpse into two of the many lives significantly changed by a dollar and one single piece of legislation, through Washington Soldier's Home--a place that makes the seemingly impossible to some a reality for many more.
Follow the story of Glen Oden, a retired combat veteran who lost his leg from Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam, and Frank Chiguina, a formerly homeless Marine who hit rock bottom before finding unimaginable success through the Washington Soldier's Home Veterans Transitional Housing Program.
Click the image above to view the TVW Field Report episode
Women Veterans Advisory Committee — Now Recruiting Across Washington
Your voice matters. Your experience matters. Your leadership matters. Your representation matters.
The Washington Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking passionate, committed women Veterans to serve on the Women Veterans Advisory Committee (WVAC) — a statewide body dedicated to ensuring women Veterans have equitable access to the benefits, services, and community support they earned.
Who We’re Looking For
We are actively recruiting women Veterans from key regions across Washington to strengthen statewide representation:
East Side: Spokane, Pullman, Walla Walla
West Side: Pacific County, Whatcom County
If you live in one of these communities — or know a woman Veteran who does — your perspective is needed.
Hawaiian Days brought a little island spirit to the home, with one special day featuring a fun musubi-making group and beautiful ukulele entertainment from Dr. Singer.
It's just one example of the many fun and meaningful activities our residents get to enjoy- from themed days and music to good food, laughter and time spent together. Sometimes, it's the simplest moments that feel the most peaceful and special.
A little aloha, a little music, and plenty of smiles make for wonderful days at the Washington Veterans home
To close out our August “Luau” theme, residents were treated to a refreshing and fun mocktail celebration—complete with three delicious mocktail options from our very own tiki-inspired bar. Tropical music, ocean-view videos, and lively luau dancers helped transform the space into a warm island escape, giving everyone a chance to unwind and savor the final days of summer.
Our Activities Department continues to focus on creating meaningful moments that spark joy, foster connection, and support the highest quality of life for our residents. Events like this remind us that it’s the shared smiles, small delights, and uplifting experiences that truly brighten each day in our community.
Our residents and staff had a fantastic time at the Hot August Night Car Show hosted by the Orting Soldiers Home! The grounds were filled with energy as community members showcased more than 100 impressive cars and motorcycles, bringing smiles to Veterans, families, and enthusiasts alike.
Adding to the fun, several food trucks were on-site serving up delicious treats. Residents especially enjoyed choosing their favorite bites, thanks to generous support from our Resident Council, who provided funds so everyone could pick exactly what they wanted.
It was a wonderful evening of classic cars, great food, and community connection. A big thank‑you to everyone who came out to make the event such a memorable summer highlight!
WSU nursing students recently spent an afternoon volunteering with our Veterans, bringing warmth, laughter, and a whole lot of bingo excitement to the community. Their presence filled the room with energy as they helped call numbers, cheer on the players, and celebrate every win—big or small.
The residents were thrilled to have the students join them. Smiles spread across the tables as the friendly competition grew, and the shared moments of joy made the day truly special. The veterans especially appreciated the students’ kindness, patience, and genuine interest in their stories.
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the WSU nursing students for their support. Their willingness to give their time meant so much to the residents, and the happiness they brought was felt long after the last bingo card was cleared. The sound of “Bingo!” echoed with excitement, and the fun memories created will be cherished.
Thank you for making the day brighter—you made a difference, and our veterans are grateful.
The Washington Veterans Conservation Corps is recruiting for a **paid internship with the Palouse Conservation District in southeast Whitman County.
As an intern, you'll work alongside conservation professionals to restore riparian habitats, improve water quality, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, and support sustainable land management. You'll gain experience in restoration projects, habitat enhancement, education and outreach, research, and conservation practices while working outdoors across the Palouse.
Internship details: • 6-month internship with the possibility of extension • Full-time (40 hours/week): $3,200/month stipend • Part-time (20 hours/week): $1,600/month stipend • Typical schedule is Monday–Thursday, with occasional evenings and weekends for outreach events • Position open until filled
Interested? Email kim@dva.wa.gov to learn more or apply.
Public Invited to Register for the 2026 VA Community Mental Health Summit: “Together Towards Tomorrow – Pathways to Hope”
The Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) invites Veterans, families, service members, community partners, and members of the public to register for the upcoming VA Community Mental Health Summit, an annual gathering dedicated to collaboration, learning, and strengthening community pathways to hope.
This year’s theme, “Together Towards Tomorrow: Pathways to Hope,” highlights the power of shared language and shared responsibility in suicide prevention.
Your WDVA invites community members, organizations, and partners to share upcoming Veterans events and military observances for inclusion on our statewide calendar. If you’re hosting a ceremony, celebration, training, or community gathering that supports or honors those who served, we want to help amplify it.
Washington State POW/MIA Recognition Event to be held in Olympia on September 18, 2026 – 10:00 a.m. POW/MIA Monument, Capitol Campus
The public is invited to the POW/MIA Monument on the Capitol Campus on September 18, 2026, for the annual POW/MIA Recognition Event, honoring the brave service members who endured captivity as Prisoners of War and those who remain Missing in Action.
“This event is a powerful reminder that our POW/MIA Veterans and their families are never alone. When our community comes together in Olympia, we create a space of remembrance, healing, and unity,” said WDVA Director David Puente Jr. “I encourage everyone to attend and stand with us as we honor those who endured captivity and those who have yet to return home.”
The State Veterans Cemetery, Medical Lake will hold a Forgotten Heroes interment on September 10 at 1:00pm.
Over the coming days unclaimed Veterans remains will be transported to the Washington State Veterans Cemetery, Medical Lake where the cremains will be ceremoniously turned over to the Department of Veterans Affairs for interment. These individuals will be interred in their final resting place with full military honors in a community interment service. The final committal service will take place at 1:00pm on Thursday September 10, 2026, and is open to the public. As a reminder, pets or the use of any tobacco or vaping products are not allowed on the premises.
The Washington State Veterans Cemetery is open to the public seven days a week, from 8am to sunset. Interments are held Monday through Friday and are scheduled by contacting the cemetery staff. For additional information regarding the ride and the interment service please contact the cemetery at 509-299-6280 or visit www.dva.wa.gov/Cemetery
Find more training opportunities by visiting the VTSC website.
Veterans Programs Spotlight
Serving Those Who Served Conference welcomes hundreds of attendees to Wenatchee
This year’s Serving Those Who Served Conference brought together hundreds of Veteran‑focused resource providers from across Washington for two energizing days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.
The event delivered a rich mix of expert‑led sessions, hands‑on resources, and meaningful networking opportunities designed to strengthen how we support our Veterans and their families.
Participants connected with professionals from state agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations statewide; sharing ideas, building partnerships, and exploring new ways to elevate Veteran services. Breakout sessions offered deep dives into arts and creative expression, employment pathways, Veterans benefits, and holistic wellness, giving attendees actionable insights they can bring back to their teams and communities.
