Phoenix va remembers pearl harbor | va phoenix health care | veterans affairs

The Phoenix VA honored Pearl Harbor Veterans by placing a wreath during a ceremony at Wesley Bolin Memorial Park commemorating the 82nd anniversary of the attack at Pearl Harbor, Dec. 9. The

ceremony commemorated the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, where 2,479 Americans both military and civilian lost their lives. The USS Arizona and USS Missouri, both

considered to be the greatest warships at the time, were also sunk.  “It’s important we have events like this,” said Dr. John Buterbaugh, Phoenix VA chief of staff. “We need to remember that

these things we enjoy, like democracy, liberty, freedom, were brought about by sacrifices people had to make and attacks like Pearl Harbor can take them away.” One of the guests of honor

for the ceremony was Ed Miklavcic Sr., a Pearl Harbor survivor. Miklavcic Sr. laid a Pearl Harbor wreathto commemorate the ceremony, followed by other Veteran organizations and groups,

including the Phoenix Veterans Affairs Health Care System. “The VA is here to show support for the community, not just the WWII Veterans, but all Veterans,” said Josh Rawlins, Phoenix VA

acting associate director of resources. Accompanying the event was the Coast Guard Auxiliary Band, playing all the different branch’s songs. “We’re here remembering those we lost,” said

Nikki White, Coast Guard Auxiliary Band ensemble leader. “I grew up in the Air Force. Playing Taps at the end is my way of giving back to the Veterans. It’s important we keep remembering

them, they’re the ones that built the country.”