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Veterans Day, observed annually on Nov. 11, is a federal holiday for honoring military veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces. There are many veterans who work here at UVA Health and, in honor of the holiday, we asked team members to send in their photos. Below is what we received (so far).

Thank you to all veterans, here at UVA Health and across the Commonwealth, country, and world, for your service.

We'll be updating this page as more photos come in. If you'd like to be included, please email a uniformed photo to uvaconnect@virginia.edu along with the following:

• Name, title, job at UVA Health?
• In which branch did you serve? What was your rank? When did you serve? What was your job in the military?
• What does Veterans Day mean to you?
• How did your military experience impact your role in healthcare? Does it affect how you care for patients, conduct research, or train students?

Short on time? Send a photo and your name, branch of service (and dates served), and rank.

Paul Kruszka, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Paul Kruszka, MD, is Director of Pediatric Genetics.

Service: U.S. Navy, doctor, Lieutenant Commander

"Veterans day is a time that I think about service and the sacrifice of men and women serving in our Armed Forces."

"My military experience really made me appreciate the resources we have in the U.S.  and the opportunity for patients to receive the best care possible." (Photo: Iraq, 2003. Dr. Kruskzka [left] in flak jacket next to embedded journalist Rick Leventhal.)

Mariah Hays, U.S. Marine Corps

At UVA Health, Mariah Hays is a supply chain specialist. 

Service: U.S. Marine Corps, 2016-2020, Corporal, Aviation Supply Specialist

"Veterans Day is about unity, respect, and remembering that freedom and peace are upheld by real people with real sacrifices. It’s also a day to express gratitude — not just through words, but through actions: listening to veterans’ stories, supporting veterans’ causes, and recognizing the challenges many face after their service."

"Patients depend on us to have the right supplies at the right time. The teamwork and accountability I learned in the Marines helps me stay focused on that mission every day."

Christopher Cloonan, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Christopher Cloonan is Director, Clinical Engineering.

Service: U.S. Navy, E-4 (Petty Officer 3rd Class), January 1989-December 1992, Interior Communications Technician. Installing, maintaining, and repairing interior communication systems such as public address systems, telephone networks, alarm systems, engine order telegraphs, advanced navigation systems and flight deck approach and stabilized glide slope indicating systems. IC Technicians had equipment in the vast majority of spaces on the ships where we served.

"Veteran’s Day to me is a time to reflect on the sacrifices of the men and women who served in the United States Military. In addition to my service, multiple members of my family served in various military branches and several during war time in theaters of operation. It is also a time to reflect on how my service in the military shaped into the person I am."

"My military experience prepared me in multiple ways for my career path in healthcare. Clinical engineering’s role is to provide, maintain, and repair the medical devices caregivers utilize in diagnosing and treating our patients. The equipment we maintain is critical to patient care The military instilled in me how to work under pressure and respond to urgent issues where timing and coordination are critical. Additionally, it provided me with problem-solving skills and the ability to respond/adapt during stressful and high pressure situations. It was also the first step in my journey as a leader."

Andrew Muck, U.S. Air Force

At UVA Health, Andrew Muck, MD, is Chair, Emergency Medicine.

Service: Major, U.S. Air Force, 2004-2011, medic and Critical Care Air Transport physician

Veterans Day:  "A time to remember the service of so many and thinking about those I cared for who didn’t make it home."

Impact on my life:  "Based on my service, I approach each day with a sense of gratefulness. I use what I learned in combat medicine to care for our patients here at home." (Photo: The little boy in the lower right is my son, Will, who is now a second-year here at UVA. Anna Beth, on the left, is senior at Texas A&M, and the little one in the middle is Sadie, who is 16, attends covenant and serves as an EMT here in Charlottesville. Kelly, my wife, ran the ship when I was deployed multiple times.)

Christopher Joseph, U.S. Marine Corps

At UVA Health, Christopher Joseph, MBA, serves as a Supply Chain Specialist and Finance Generalist at UVA Health’s Orthopedic Center.

Service: U.S. Marine Corps, Staff Sergeant, July 2013 – December 2020. Logistics Specialist (0411). 

"Veterans Day, for me, is a day to honor all those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It’s a meaningful opportunity to celebrate and express gratitude to fellow veterans. There’s a unique bond formed through shared experiences and hardships, and this day reminds me of the enduring strength of that connection."

"My last duty station gave me the privilege of serving as a Marine Corps Liaison for the Wounded Warrior Battalion East, Walter Reed Detachment. In that role, I was responsible for overseeing active-duty Marines who were wounded, ill, or injured, as well as assisting active-duty, reservist, MEDEVAC, and veteran Marines admitted as inpatients to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. This humbling and honorable experience ignited my passion for supporting others in healthcare. The Marine Corps instilled in me a profound sense of pride, knowledge, experience, and unwavering commitment. These values guide me in everything I do, especially when it comes to patient care, where giving my best to make a difference is non-negotiable!"

Darla Fainter, U.S. Air Force

At UVA Health, Darla Fainter, DNP, AGACNP, CCNS, is a nurse practitioner in Cardiology. 

Service: U.S. Air Force, Colonel (retired, 2011); "In the Air Force, I was a critical care flight nurse transporting patients all over the world."

"Veterans Day is a day to remember the men and women who have served to keep our nation safe.  It is a day to thank those men and women who have proudly served in the United States Armed Services. It is to honor those who love our country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. This is the day to honor and appreciate sacrifices for their service."

"My military service includes working in hospitals, clinics, and flying in all types of airplanes taking care of patients. I have been deployed all over the world takng care of military and civilian patients working in austere environments. Taking care of all types of patient with different ethnicity has made me a better clinician. In the military, you realize patients look to healthcare professionals for guidance and help when they are sick, whether they live in or outside the United States. I am a better clinician because of my military experience, which translates to my care given at UVA Health." 

Colleen Fortine, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Colleen Fortine, RN, BSN, works in the pre-anesthesia clinic.

Service: Army Nurse Corps, Captain. 

"Veterans Day is about taking a moment to reflect on the service and sacrifices made for that service member."

Todd Villines, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Todd Villines, MD, FACC, FAHA, MSCCT, is a Professor of Medicine (Cardiology), Vice-Chief, Clinical Services, and Medical Director, Acute Cardiology Service.

Service: U.S. Army, Medical Corps, Colonel (O-6), served as a West Point Cadet 1991-1995, Medical School (Army Reserves) 1995-1999, active duty 1999-2019. Various duties.

"My military experienced shaped me in so many ways. I was blessed to care for so many selfless servants, heroes, sometimes in the most austere possible environments. It has made me appreciate and remember that despite challenges in my current day-to-day, that it can always be more challenging and life threatening. The military health system allowed me to learn, grow, and lead large organizations at a very early stage in my career, preparing me for my current role. Lastly, it inspired in me a desire to always give back and serve others and patients in everything that I do."

James  Vick, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, James  Vick, DDS, is an Associate Professor, Chief of Dental Division/Plastics Dept.

Service: U.S. Navy. 05 Commander. 2010-2020 active, 2020-2022 reserves. General dentist/orofacial pain specialist, many collateral duties.

Veterans Day is "a celebration of the amazing people that make up our armed forces."

How did your military experience impact your role in healthcare: "Empathy, kindness, patience were all strengthened as a part of that experience."

Keegan McCauley, U.S Navy

At UVA Health, Keegan McCauley works in the Pharmacy Department.

Service: Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, 2012-2020. As a Surface Warfare Officer, I served as the Communication Officer onboard USS Philippine Sea (CG-58), Training Officer onboard USS The Sullivans (DDG-68), and Staff Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection Officer at Naval Surface Squadron 14. I did two deployments, spent a combined total of two years at sea, and visited 12 countries.

"Veterans Day is a great time for me to reflect. Think about the people I served with, revisit the places I’ve gone, and reconnect with those I’ve lost touch with."

"In the Navy I learned the importance of a strong work ethic, sacrifice, and serving those I worked alongside. I try to bring that mindset with me to work every day."

Wesley Gass, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Wesley Gass, RN, BSN, works in Electrophysiology.

Service: U.S. Army, 2000-2004. Specialist (E-4), M1A1 Armor Crewman.  

"To me Veterans’ Day is a day of reflection for all of us as a nation to reflect on the sacrifices that our Veterans have given."

"My time in the Army has given me perspective during my entire nursing career, and another way to establish relationships with my patients.  My time in the military remains the bar against which everything that happens is measured. The GI Bill benefit paid for both of my nursing degrees." (Photo: 2003, Central Baghdad, part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.)

Michael Yeager, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Michael Yeager, MBA, MLS(ASCP)CE, is a Clinical Laboratory Scientist.

Service: U.S. Army, Specialist, 68W Healthcare Specialist

"On Veterans Day, my thoughts immediately turn to the unbreakable bond and shared experiences forged with my fellow service members. It is a solemn time to reflect on the selfless commitment of everyone who served. I feel immense pride and honor to have served among such generous and dedicated individuals who willingly gave a part of themselves for our country. This day powerfully reaffirms the depth of their sacrifice."

"I find that my military service was the ideal preparation for healthcare, primarily because both careers are defined by selfless sacrifice and unbreakable camaraderie. These aren't easy callings, but having a dependable group of peers has been the best aid for growth in both fields. In the hospital, I recognize the same commitment I shared with the men and women I served alongside: a willingness to give a piece of yourself every single day to ensure someone or something is left better than you found it. This deep, shared dedication of putting another person's welfare first is a selfless sacrifice I continue to witness and value daily."

Jason Huffman, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Jason Huffman is a Radiologic Technologist 4 (RT)R, OR X-Ray 

Service: U.S. Army, E-5 Sergeant, 1993-2002, 96R Ground Surveillance Radar for three years and 92R Parachute Rigger (AIRBORNE) for six years. 

"Veterans Day is a time to reflect on the relationships cultivated with the people I served with. I usually get together with a few of them for a few days around Veterans Day each year."

Jason's military experience "taught me to be calm under pressure." 

Does it affect how you care for patients, conduct research, or train students? "I treat everyone the same, as I was taught by my parents."

Jen Dodge, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health Jen Dodge, PhD, RN, UR, is a clinician with BHIP.

Service: U.S. Navy, 1986-1990, serving as a DC3 (damage control) on the U.S.S. Yellowstone AD41. Specialized in chemical, biological, and radiological warfare from a defensive standpoint.

"Many members of previous generations in my family serviced in the U.S. military during conflicts including WWII and the Vietnam War. I am proud to have carried on their legacy and translated my experience into a dissertation project, earning my PhD this year."

"In addition to my service in the military, I have worked as a nurse with community organizations and in hospitals. I work as a nurse educator as well. I highlight unique aspects veteran culture in my interactions with colleagues and students to increase knowledge of this demographic with the purpose of improving healthcare for these individuals. The suicide rate among veterans in the U.S. is now greater than that of civilians, and we have the ability to positively impact that rate by bridging the gap between cultures."

Beatrice Clifford, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Beatrice Clifford is a Surgical Tech. III, Certified.

Service: U.S. Army. "I served on active duty from 1986 to 1994 as a scrub tech. My first duty station was Brooke Army Med Center in San Antonio, Texas. My next duty station was Ft. Cambell, Kentucky, at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital."

Mitchell DeBlois, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Mitchell DeBlois works in the Department of Neurology as a Senior Administrative Assistant. 

Service: U.S. Army, 2019-2023. "I exited service as an E-5/ Sergeant. I was a 68W Combat Medic. I was part of the 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 54th Brigade Engineering Battalion."

"Veterans Day is a holiday that gives me mixed feelings. On one hand, I am proud that our nation takes the time to recognize those who are serving and who have served in some capacity in ensuring the freedom of our nation. On the other hand, it also serves as a reminder that our rights were earned with the lives and service of millions of Americans over many years in the hope that the next generation can live a freer life than they had."

"My service impacted my life heavily, with my role in healthcare notwithstanding. During my time in service, I was placed in the role of Senior Medic, a role that saw me share responsibility for the medical readiness of a battalion. This position inspired me to pursue my Master's in Healthcare Administration and my current career path. I’m now working on attaining my Doctorate in Healthcare Administration. Working with the epilepsy team here at UVA, I know that I am a small cog in the machine that is genuinely working to conduct research and perform patient care for the benefit of the community. And I must thank all the other cogs in our department, our clinical and administrative support staff, who keep the lights on and enable our faculty to do their best." (Photo: "My wife and me on the day she passed her boards to become promotion eligible to the position of Sergeant.")

Demetrius  Banks, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Demetrius Banks works on the 3 East General Medicine unit.

Service: "I served in the United States Army for 20 years. I am a retired soldier. My rank was Sergeant. I was active from 1999-2005. My MOS when I first went in was 44B, Metal Worker/Welder (changed to 91E, Allied Trades). I then went into a Drill Sergeant Unit where I was a Drill Instructor from 2009-2016. I then went into a regular instructor unit in 2016-2024. My units where I served and did training were: Ft. Knox, KY (Boot Camp); Ft. Irwin, CA; Ft. Jackson, SC; and Ft. Leonard Wood, MS."

"My time  in the military was a great experience. It helped to open and be more vocal. I met many people from many countries. Different cultures. Different walks of life. This job is no different.  We meet different types of people everyday. I believe that the military trained us well for these things."

Amy Schienschang, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Amy Schienschang is a Clinical Laboratory Specialist II working in the Lum Lab (School of Medicine).

Service: U.S. Army (active duty) from 2012-2017, Human Resource NCO (42A). "I got out as a corporal. I had an unglamorous but important role processing human resources actions and awards."

"Veteran’s Day for me is a time to be proud of my service to the country and feel connected to my brothers and sisters in arms. My time in the Army allowed me to pursue graduate education that I wouldn’t have been able to access, which led me to research here at UVA."

Jose Guevara-Cortez, U.S. Air Force

At UVA Health, Jose Guevara-Cortez, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist.

Service: U.S. Air Force, E-5 (Staff Sergeant,) 2009-2019, Dental Technician 

Veterans Day is "a day to reflect on the contributions of those who have served and continue to serve, as well as their families. To pay respect to those who made the ultimate sacrifice, so that others may be free."

"As a dental technician/hygienist, I was able to provide optimal care for multiple patients with a team of professionals. I had the opportunity to develop my bed-side manner and developed my ability to listen to my patient’s needs. Additionally, I completed a four-week humanitarian mission in Peru, traveling along the Amazon river, stopping by remote villages to provide dental care for those in need. Lastly, I completed a seven-month deployment to Saudi Arabia, which improved my ability to think quickly on my feet, in order to complete the mission."

Lukas Welch, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Lukas Welch R. T. (R) is a Radiologic Technologist 2 OR X-RAY.

Service: U.S. Army, E4 Specialist, 2020-current, 68P Radiology Specialist

"Veterans Day means a lot to me, as my family has an extensive history of serving in the U.S. military. My father, Jason Welch, two younger brothers, Nick and Patrick Welch, and my Uncle, Freeman Welch, who all served in the U.S. Army as well. Veterans Day is a chance to remember and honor the service them and my fellow soldiers along side me have given to our country."

"My military experience directly impacted my role in healthcare as I performed all of my schooling and clinical training through the military at Ft. Sam Houston. This schooling allowed me to challenge the ART and become a registered radiologic technologist. From there I gained valuable experience working at Martin Army Community Hospital before transitioning to the Alabama National Guard. My time as a radiology specialist for the U.S. Army helped me understand the urgency and importance of quality patient care and how to offer it to the best of my abilities. When training students, I like to take tips that I learned from experienced techs at Martin Army, and from years of experience on the job to help instill confidence in one's self and staying calm in pressure situations to ensure the best patient care for our patients."

David Penberthy, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, David Penberthy, MD, MBA, is Associate Professor and Program Director, UVA Department of Radiation Oncology

Service: U.S. Navy, 1994-2006, Lieutenant Commander, Flight Surgeon, Fighter Squadron VF-101 (fixed wing F-14), Oceana Virginia. "I also did my internship in Surgery at Bethesda Naval Hospital from 1994-1995."

"Veterans day is meaningful to me as recognition of the incredible effort of our military personnel (and their families) to maintain our nations safety and freedom.  Freedom isn’t free!  

"My first job as a medical student and physician was with the U.S. Navy. I learned a lot about large organizations, the chain of command, discipline and root cause analysis that have served me well in my role as a physician over my career."

Stephen Searle, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Stephen Searle is an IT Tech Associate I Biomed.

Service: U.S. Navy, 1983-2006, Chief Petty Officer. "My job in the Navy was to operate, maintain, and repair advanced electronic weapon systems, to include automatic gun and missile systems that my ships would employ to engage and destroy incoming threats." 

"Veteran’s Day to me is a special day for those who have served, along with their families. Family members should be included as they play an important part in a veteran’s time in service."

"The military has taught me valuable lessons as well as training to do my best in any situation. Discipline, punctuality, and attention to detail all translate and contribute to a successful career in any field."

Napoleon Terrell, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Napoleon Terrell is Project Manager, Supportive Care Services, Cancer Screening.

Service: U.S. Army, SPC (P), 1992-2000, HHC 17th, Aviation Brigade/5th Special Forces Detachment. Army Signal Support Systems Specialist: installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and assisting users with battlefield signal support systems.

Veterans Day is "a moment to reflect on my own journey in regards to what I gave, how I endured, and how I grew. I think of those whom I served with, especially those who didn’t make it home. I feel pride in my contribution to something larger than myself. It reminds me that I’m a part of a lifelong community of people who understand what service truly means. I am very humble about my service, but it has been meaningful to see others pause and say, “Thank you for your service.” Veterans Day is also a chance to highlight the needs of veterans, like mental health, housing, employment, medical care, and more."

"My military experience impacting my role in healthcare: Like the military, healthcare is about serving others. Your dedication to a greater cause aligns naturally with patient-centered care. My military training instilled a strong sense of duty and integrity, which is crucial in maintaining patient trust and safety.  Military units rely on tight coordination, just like healthcare teams. You understand chain of command, communication protocols, and shared responsibility. My experiences have helped me connect with patients, especially fellow veterans, on a deeper level."

David Callender, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, David Callender, MD, MPH, Medical Director, University Medical Associates.

Service: U.S. Army, Major, 2004-2015, doctor.

Veterans Day is "a date to pay gratitude to those who have served out country and the many sacrifices they have endured."

"I am always thankful for the experiences and focus related to teamwork and the greater mission beyond what is directly in front of you. These are each important key values I bring to my job at UVA Health."

"I am able to reflect on my life experiences living and working among diverse cultures. I apply the lessons learned to my current clinical and educational focuses." (Photo: Me and my daughter when I returned from a nine-month deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.) 

Jonabeth Rivera, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Jonabeth Rivera, is a BSN-DNP CNS/AGACNP student.

Service: U.S. Army, Nurse Corps, Major Promotable (MAJP), 2009-present, Intensive Care Unit Army Nurse. Operation Enduring Freedom (Camp Bastion, Afghanistan), 2012

"Veterans Day is a testament to service, sacrifice, and the profound need to heal — both ourselves and others."

"My military experience shaped every facet of my role in healthcare, guiding how I advocate for patients, support colleagues, conduct research, and mentor future clinicians. It instilled in me a mission-first mindset, respect for discipline and accountability, and a deep compassion for those who suffer — often unseen and unheard. Each day, I strive to listen more deeply, extend a gentle hand, and affirm the dignity of every person in my care."

"In trauma bays and boardrooms alike, I carry lessons of precision, perspective, and moral courage. I strive to teach with patience and understanding, analyze data with care, and celebrate patient milestones with heartfelt gratitude — recognizing that every recovery is a triumph of the human spirit."

"Veterans Day reminds me that true leadership is rooted in responsibility and in the privilege to serve with integrity, humility, and boundless compassion. My career in healthcare is my ongoing commitment to honoring this trust — caring for others with the same devotion and empathy that I learned in the military."

Lisa Beach, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Lisa Beach is a Division Administrator for GI in the Department of Medicine.

Service: U.S. Army, LTC, 22 years, Medical Operations Officer. 

"As someone who is currently serving, Veterans Day holds a very special meaning because it reminds me to honor the brave men and women who have come before us-those who have worn this uniform and dedicated their lives to protecting our nation. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to defending our freedom inspire me every day."

"Veterans Day also connects deeply to my own family and community. I come from a line of service members, and their stories remind me of the strength it takes to serve both on the front lines and at home. Behind every uniform is a group of family members, friends, colleagues, and community members that stand strong, support from afar, and sacrifice in their own way."

"For me, this day is also a time to slow down and reflect on the true cost of freedom. It’s  a reminder of the lives changed, the moments missed, and the courage it takes to stand for something greater than yourself."

"But most of all, Veterans Day inspires me to continue serving, not only through my duties in uniform but also through acts of kindness and leadership in my community. Service, in all its forms, is what keeps our nation strong and united."

"I have a deep gratitude for those who served before me, for those who serve beside me, and for those who will serve after me. Veterans Day is a reminder to always honor their legacy through our actions, our respect, and our continued dedication to the values they fought to protect."

Military Walls of Honor at UVA Community Health

• Agnew, Cindy
• Anderson, Mike
• Asturias, Christopher
• Banks, Tiffany
• Barrera, Raul
• Barroga, Javon
• Baxter, Tom
• Bednar, Michael
• Biecher, James
• Brogan, Elaine
• Broner, Bounder
• Brown, Tiffany
• Campbell, Destinee
• Carlson, Nathan
• Carroll, Charles
• Chase, Robert
• Chauca, Jorge
• Cleaves, Christine
• Coder, Chuck
• Condori, Courtney
• Connolly, Cathleen
• Coreas, Irving
• Cruz, Nicholas
• Daniels, Douglas
• Debrow, Kelsey
• Delgado, David
• Delos Reyes, Spencer
• Dickinson, Andre
• Edwards, Dionne
• Elgin, Keeley
• Gallant, Lisa
• Garcia, Cesar
• Garcia, Steven
• Gaskins, Renee
• Gibson, Donalda
• Gibson, William
• Gill, Mark
• Green, Christian
• Groves, John
• Hall, Jordan
• Harrison, Charles
• Harrison, John
• Haynes, Katherine
• Heckel, Isora
• Hovey, Randy
• James, Marvin Anthony
• Jarman, Keith
• Jordan, Theodore
• Khadka, Sarita
• Khayat, Victor
• Langsam, Angelina
• Latimer, Jr. Robert
• Leonard, Samuel
• Lillie, Thomas
• Maranian, Ara
• Markiewicz, Joseph
• Martinez, Andre
• Mathis, Greg
• McCloy, Arvena
• McNeil, Clarence
• Medina, Magalis
• Meister, Nicolette
• Mitchell, Randy
• Mize, Trina
• Moon, Thomas
• Moore, Eddie
• Morton, Suchada
• Nelson, Rebecca
• Newton, Johnny
• Nowakowski, Mary
• O’Hagan, Johnathon
• Ordonez, Gene
• Osburn, Katherine
• Payne, Geneva
• Phillips, Robert
• Prailey, Michael
• Radford, Ann
• Renninger, Lew
• Robinson, Kevin
• Roloff, Jay
• Rosales, Gustavo
• Rothenmeyer, Mark
• Rudy, Lisa
• Ruland, Emmett
• Schmitt, Klaus
• Schoetker, Ambree
• Schueller, Christian
• Schwind, Kari
• Semsey, Steve
• Simmons, Benjamin
• Smedley, Christopher
• Smith, Parker
• Stein, Judy
• Stetler, Samir Michael
• Strain, Katy
• Sumner, Wayne
• Sutton, Kayla
• Talley, David
• Telian, Simon
• VanDeusen, Diane
• Villagomez, Rachelle
• Washington, Stanley
• Weese, David
• White, Kristopher
• Wilkinson, Brian
• Willets, Judy
• Williams, Daniel
• Yu, Victor