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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.

Amanda Carter, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Amanda Carter is a nurse practitioner in neurosurgery.

Service: U.S. Army, Specialist, 11/2001-9/2005

Veterans Day meaning: "I actually think of the seven generations of veterans before me on Veterans Day and admire their bravery."

How does it affect your role at UVA Health: "The Army taught me a lot about leadership, which although I do not need this as much in my current role, I found it valuable in bedside nursing." 

Steven Wiseman, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Steven Wiseman is a nurse practitioner in the NNICU/NIMU (Neurocritical Care)

Service: U.S. Army Reserve, major, currently serving, Army Medical Operations Readiness Unit (7458th), Fort Bragg, NC.

Jonabeth Torregosa Rivera, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Jonabeth Torregosa Rivera is a critical care nurse and a doctoral nursing student at UVA, pursuing the DNP CNS/AGACNP track.

Service: U.S. Army, lieutenant colonel. "I am a U.S. Army Nurse with 18 years of service across clinical, educational, and leadership roles, including critical care nurse, head nurse, detachment commander, and Deputy Director of the Army Clinical Nurse Transition Program. I served during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2012 and answered the call to serve again during the COVID-19 pandemic at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. For our family, military service is truly a shared commitment. My husband is a retired Army first sergeant and military police soldier, and our sons continue this legacy of service as a second lieutenant in military intelligence and a signal non-commissioned officer."

"Veterans Day is a time to honor the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of everyone who has served, along with the families who support them.

"The Army has shaped me as both a nurse and a leader by teaching me discipline, resilience, adaptability, teamwork, and how to stay calm under pressure. I have learned that leadership starts with service, and that every patient deserves compassionate, respectful, and culturally humble care.

"My military experience shapes the way I teach and mentor others. I work to build strong teams, encourage critical thinking and clear communication, and always put people first. Whether on the battlefield, at the bedside, or in the classroom, I am committed to supporting each other and our military family every step of the way."

Chizoro Taylor, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Chizoro Taylor, PhD, MS, PA-C, is APP Director for the Neurosciences and Oncology service lines.

Service: U.S. Navy, Sept. 1997 to March 2007, hospital corpsman.

"Having served in the U.S. Navy during a time of many conflicts and having lost shipmates along the way, I understand firsthand that the cost of service and sacrifice is very real. I also understand that freedom and security often come at a tremendous price. It takes the courage, commitment, and bravery of a few who are willing to serve so that many can live in safety and freedom. For me, Veterans Day is about honoring those who served, remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and never taking for granted the responsibility and privilege of serving something greater than ourselves."

"My military experience as a U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman profoundly shaped how I approach healthcare, leadership, and patient care. It instilled in me the values of discipline, accountability, teamwork, adaptability, and composure under pressure. Most importantly, it reinforced that behind every patient is a person, a family, and a story deserving of dignity, compassion, and advocacy.

"These lessons continue to influence how I practice as a physician associate and lead as the APP Director for Neurosciences and Oncology. I emphasize service, teamwork, and accountability encouraging others to recognize both the responsibility and privilege of caring for others.

"Ultimately, the military taught me that service is bigger than oneself. Whether serving my country, caring for patients, or leading teams, my commitment remains the same: to serve others, advocate for those who depend on us, and make a meaningful difference."

Wesley Gass, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Wesley Gass is a registered nurse in the Electrophysiology Lab.

Service: U.S. Army, 2000-2004, specialist, M1A1 Armor Crewman, serving on the Abrams Main Battle Tank.

"To me, Veterans Day has always been the time to acknowledge those that have served our nation and are still alive. It remains the one day out of the year where hearing 'Thank you for your service' does not make me uncomfortable.

"My time in the military gave me a perspective that continues to impact my role here. That perspective anchors me and allows me to focus on the task at hand, whether it's caring for patients, coordinating care, or training new staff members.

"Thank you for this opportunity to recognize veterans in the UVA Health system."

Winston Lamar Clinedinst, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Winston Lamar Clinedinst is a Senior Access Associate for Heart and Vascular Center.

Service: U.S. Navy, QM2(SS) 1990–1998. "My primary role was the safe navigation of three different multi-million dollar submarines. I served on the USS Von Steuben, USS Norfolk, and the USS Rhode Island."

"Veterans Day will always be special to me as a simple reminder of all the sailors I stood watch beside all over the world and under water throughout eight years of my life and my Brothers In Arms for life."

"My military experience taught me to respect every single person I come in contact with in life and it translates to being kind to one another regardless of circumstances."

Kyle Vick, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Kyle Vick is Chief of Dentistry.

Service: U.S. Navy, 05 Commander, 2010–2020 active, 2020–2022 Reserves. Dentist, Orofacial Pain Specialist, teaching residents, Joint Commission/MedIG.

"I will always appreciate being a part of something bigger than myself. I learned our cultural differences make our country stronger."

Mariah Hays, U.S. Marine Corps

At UVA Health, Mariah Hays works in inventory operations and services. 

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

Richard Russell, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Richard Russell on the Urology Access Implement Team.

Service: U.S. Army, Specialist 4, July 1977–July 1983. Stationed in Germany for more than four years as a Unit Supply Specialist/Armorer, supporting ordnance operations throughout Europe.

"To me, Veterans Day is about celebrating all branches of our Armed Forces and honoring those who have helped keep the United States safe from foreign control and dictatorship, while also supporting our allied nations around the world. I salute all my fellow servicemen and women! To all veterans and those currently serving on active duty – thank you for your service!"

Christopher Jennings, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Christopher Jennings is an RN Case Manager in TCV/PO.

Service: U.S. Navy, CTM3 / E4, March 1996–March 2002, Cryptologic Maintenance Technician.

"Coming from a very military family, Veterans Day is an opportunity for us to take a day to appreciate the freedoms that we have and thank those that have volunteered to protect those freedoms. It is an annual reminder that there is a cost associated with our way of life."

"I was able to use my GI Bill to go to college to get my nursing degree. I still utilize the Navy’s core values in all that I do to include my roles as a ER RN, ICU RN, travel ICU RN, and now as a RN CM. Honor, courage, and commitment. For me it wasn’t a tag line, it remains a guiding light to live by."

Christopher Joseph, U.S. Marine Corps

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

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

"My last duty station gave me the privilege of serving as a Marine Corps Liaison for Wounded Warrior Battalion East, Walter Reed Detachment. In that role, I supported Marines who were wounded, ill, or injured, helping them and their families navigate challenging circumstances while receiving care at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

"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.

"That experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the impact healthcare professionals have on the lives of patients and their families. It also reinforced the importance of compassion, teamwork, accountability, and service to others.

"Although my role at UVA Health is different from my responsibilities in the Marine Corps, the values I developed throughout my military career continue to guide me every day. Working behind the scenes in supply chain and finance, I recognize that supporting our healthcare teams is another way to contribute to the care our patients receive. My military service taught me that every role contributes to the success of a mission, and I carry that same mindset into my work today.

"I'm grateful that my journey has allowed me to continue serving others, just in a different capacity!"

Camille Phillips, U.S. Air Force

At UVA Health, Camille Phillips is a nurse navigator in Surgical Urology, UVA Cancer Center.

Service: U.S. Air Force, 1988-1994, registered nurse first in OB/GYN, Nursery and Post-Partum at Lakenheath Air Base, England, during the Gulf War. I then had a few years in Critical Care at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi.

"The Air Force ROTC program made it possible for me to go to college on a scholarship. Coming from a military family, I was very comfortable with that idea. Living in Europe was transformative for me. To get outside my comfort zone and see the world has helped me not be afraid to try new things, travel, encourage my kids to travel — be open to people from all walks of life. It was the best decision I could have ever made."

Steve Ellis, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Steve Ellis is Chief Supply Chain Officer.

Service: U.S. Navy, Airman, a long time ago (late '80s), F-14 (Tomcat) - Squadron QA.

"It is a time to recognize the patriotism, sacrifice, and readiness to protect national freedoms displayed by service members past and present across all branches (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space). I am a third-generation Navy veteran, and my youngest son is an active-duty U.S. Army commissioned officer.

"Military service provided the opportunity to work in supply/logistics management, planning development needed for service excellence, and operational continuity. The Navy’s leadership training with focus on teamwork was an early foundation which is blended with my experiences in healthcare applicable in my daily activities."

Kendrick Monroe, U.S. Marine Corps

At UVA Health, Kendrick Monroe is an HIT project manager. "I lead healthcare IT projects that involve several departments, including Epic deployments, vendor evaluations, infrastructure transitions, and clinic transitions. My job is to keep the technology working for the clinicians, staff, and patients who rely on it."

Service: U.S. Marine Corps, November 1993 to December 2013, retired after 20 years as a Gunnery Sergeant. "My primary role was Information Technology Director. Over those two decades I led Marines, planned and carried out operations, and learned to get the mission done with whatever resources we had."

"Veterans Day is a day to honor everyone who raised their right hand and chose to serve something bigger than themselves. That includes those still serving and those who never came home. For me it’s also about the families behind every service member, who carry the weight of deployments, moves, and missed holidays. I think of the Marines I served alongside and feel proud and grateful that I got to wear the uniform."

"The Marine Corps taught me that every mission comes down to people, planning, and accountability, and that’s how I run projects at UVA Health. I’m not at the bedside, but I know every system we deploy affects a clinician’s workflow and, in the end, a patient’s care. I lead with the same discipline I learned in the Corps: a clear objective, clear ownership, and following through until the job is done. It also taught me to stay calm under pressure and to bring different teams together around one goal, which matters a lot in a complex health system."

Tedric Lolis, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Tedric Lolis is a physician assistant, MSK Imaging Ivy Road.

Service: U.S. Army, E-5 SGT, December 1998 - June 2006. M1A1 Tank crew member, then re-enlisted as a Surgical Technologist.

"This day helps me remember the personnel of the past, present, and future armed forces and the sacrifices made every day to keep our American people safe and our country free."

"Being in the military showed me the focus and discipline needed to complete a mission. In healthcare our mission should always be to put our patients first. No matter what we do, our patients are why we are here. The military taught me to be consistent and steadfast amongst challenges in patient care. Selfless service may not always be recognized, but the satisfaction of knowing we can change a person’s life with our hands should never be taken lightly."

Julieanne Bautista, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Julieanne Bautista is a certified medical assistant.

Service: U.S. Army, SGT, July 2018 – October 2025, Motor Transport Operator (88M)

"To me, Veterans Day is about honoring everyone who has served and recognizing the sacrifices they have made."

"My military experience has directly influenced how I interact and communicate with both my team members and patients."

Gretchen Wiersma, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Gretchen Wiersma is an Associate Professor in UVA School of Nursing.

Service: U.S. Army, Captain, 1987-1997, Army Nurse Corps as a nurse in several capacities.

"To me, Veterans Day is a time to reflect on my service as an Army nurse, the places I served, the experiences I had, and the people I met along the way. Those memories continue to shape who I am today. And, if I'm being honest, I also enjoy taking advantage of the free food and beverages offered in appreciation of veterans each year.

"Spending the first three years of my nursing career overseas provided me with invaluable exposure to diverse patient populations, unique clinical experiences, and different cultural perspectives. Supported by strong preceptors and given leadership responsibilities early in my career, I developed a solid clinical and professional foundation. These experiences have significantly influenced my growth as a nurse and have created many opportunities throughout my career in healthcare.

"My military experience has significantly influenced how I care for patients, conduct research, and train students. As a clinician, it reinforced the importance of patient-centered care and adapting to the unique needs and backgrounds of each individual. In my research and scholarship, I have focused on supporting veterans and active-duty service members as they pursue nursing education, helping them navigate the transition into the profession and succeed academically. As an educator, my military background has shaped my approach to teaching by providing structure, setting high expectations, and maintaining a student-centered focus. I recognize that each student brings different experiences, strengths, and learning needs, and I strive to support their individual growth and development."

Nate Blackler, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Nate Blackler is a NICU nurse.

Service: U.S. Army, 2001-2003, Infantryman E3

"Veterans Day is a time to reflect on all those who have served before and with me to honor their service to provide the freedom of the American people. 

"Before changing careers to work as a nurse, I was the New Hampshire Team RWB Chapter Captain which allowed me to help connect veterans within civilians in their local communities through various social and physical activities. I decided I wanted to change careers and continue helping people as a nurse.

"Serving in the Army and overseas allowed me to continue having an open mindset as I care for my patients and their families from various backgrounds and cultures."

Jamie Jackson, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Jamie Jackson, LPC, is a behavioral health consultant.

Service: U.S. Army, SSG/E6, 2002-2010, Military Police. 

"Veterans Day means something to me that is difficult to put into words because I don't just recognize the sacrifice; I have lived a part of it. I know that service is about more than wearing a uniform. It's about the people you stand beside, the things you carry with you, the sacrifices that change you, and the parts of yourself that you may never get back. It's remembering those who stood beside you, honoring those who never made it home, and recognizing that the end of a deployment doesn't necessarily mean the end of the battles. Today, I honor every veteran, but I especially hold close the memories, the brothers and sisters in arms, and the sacrifices that will always be a part of me. Some things you can never fully explain to someone who hasn't lived them.

"My experience as a combat veteran has significantly shaped who I am as a mental health professional. Military service taught me resilience, adaptability, accountability, and, most importantly, the importance of looking beyond what is immediately visible. Those lessons have carried directly into my work with patients and families.

"I approach healthcare with an understanding that every individual brings their own experiences, challenges, and circumstances into the room. I believe in meeting people where they are, advocating for those whose voices may not always be heard, and recognizing that compassion and dignity are just as important as clinical care. My military background has also influenced how I lead, collaborate, and navigate high-pressure situations. It taught me to remain composed, think critically, communicate effectively, and support the people around me. As a mental health professional, particularly working with children and families, I recognize the importance of building trust, creating a sense of safety, and understanding that sometimes the most meaningful part of care is simply making someone feel seen and heard. Ultimately, my military experience didn't just shape how I approach my profession; it shaped the kind of mental health professional and advocate I strive to be every day."

Jared McComb, U.S. Marine Corps and Virginia Army National Guard

At UVA Health, Jared McComb is Director, Population Health and Care Continuum Strategy.

Service:

• U.S. Marine Corps, 2001-2006, Sergeant. Avionics Technician and Aerial Observer on the CH-46E.
• Virginia Army National Guard, 2013-2019, Specialist. Infantry.

"I’m proud to have served my country, and I’m grateful for the people I served alongside. Veterans Day is a day to remember them and honor the veterans who came before us. For me, service didn’t end when I hung up the uniform. It continues every day. I’m a life member of the VFW and the American Legion, and a member of the Combat Vets Motorcycle Association, where I focus on helping fellow veterans in need."

"The military taught me to stay calm under pressure, troubleshoot problems, and keep working toward the mission when conditions aren’t ideal. My time in combat also gave me a different lens on the world, and that helps me think outside the box and stay focused when situations get stressful. I bring those lessons to my work every day, helping build programs that support patients across the care continuum."

Bea Clifford, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Bea Clifford works in outpatient surgery.

Service: Active duty as a surgical tech, 1986-1994. Trained at U.S. Army Academy of Health Sciences.

"I like to show appreciation for all of our military — past and present — for making our country safe! Happy Veterans Day to all my brothers and sisters in arms."

Paul Kruszka, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Paul Kruszka, MD, is the Genentech Professor of Pediatrics, Director of Genetics and Metabolism.

Service: U.S. Navy; Lieutenant Commander; 1989-2004; Navy physician. 

"Veterans Day is a time to remember and honor the shipmates I served with and all the service members who have defended our country. My time in the military made me realize how fortunate we are in the U.S. to have so many medical resources compared with much of the world. As a division director, I’ve also found the leadership experience and training I received in the Navy invaluable."

Photo: "I am on the left and our battalion’s embedded reporter — Rick Leventhal of Fox News is on the right. This photo is taken in Iraq in 2003."

Maribel Lueke, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Maribel Lueke is lead nurse educator at Nursing Professional Development Services.

Service: U.S. Navy, LT, Sept. 2019-August 2026. Transitioned from Active Duty to Selective Reserves as a critical care registered nurse.

"Veterans Day means honoring a promise — the same promise I made when I raised my right hand to serve something greater than myself. It is a humble reminder that behind every uniform is a story of sacrifice, courage, resilience, and a family who served alongside us. Military service may have a beginning and an end, but the values it instills never leave us. I am grateful for those who have paved the way, proud of those I served alongside, and forever honored to be among those who answered the call to serve — including my husband, my father, my father-in-law, and my brother." 

"Although the uniform may change, my commitment to service does not. The Navy shaped the nurse, educator, and leader I am today, and I carry those lessons into every patient interaction, every classroom, and every opportunity to make healthcare better."

Keegan McCauley, U.S. Navy

At UVA Health, Keegan McCauley is Evening Operations Manager, Pharmacy Department.

Service: U.S. Navy, 2012 to 2020, Lieutenant (O-3). "As a Surface Warfare Officer, I served as Communications Officer aboard USS Philippine Sea (CG-58), Training Officer aboard USS The Sullivans (DDG-68), and as the Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection Officer for Naval Surface Squadron 14. During my service, I completed two deployments, spent more than two years at sea, visited 12 countries, and participated in the Burial at Sea ceremony for astronaut Neil Armstrong.

"Veterans Day is a time for reflection and gratitude. It gives me an opportunity to think about the sailors and leaders I served alongside, remember the experiences that shaped me, and reconnect with a community that continues to have a lasting impact on my life. It is also a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and their families in support of something larger than themselves.

"My time in the Navy taught me the importance of leadership, accountability, and serving others. Operating at sea required strong teamwork, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, lessons that translate directly to healthcare. At UVA Health, I strive to foster a culture of service, support my team through challenges, and ensure we remain focused on delivering safe, reliable care for our patients. The Navy instilled in me the belief that mission success depends on taking care of the people around you, and that philosophy continues to guide me as a leader today."

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."

"[Serving] taught me to be calm under pressure."

"I treat everyone the same as I was taught by my parents."

Ned Canada, U.S. Army

At UVA Health, Ned Canada is an OR diagnostic radiology technologist.

Service: U.S. Army, Specialist, Infantry, 2009-2012. "I was primarily a bodyguard, working with a small specialized team of 20 on personal security for high-ranking officers, including the Secretary of Defense."

"Veterans Day allows the living to be celebrated, but we almost always prefer to remember those that didn't come back with us. The military prepared me for a role in healthcare, especially when it comes to working across departments to take care of patients as our top priority. I realize often that lessons I learned sometimes the hard way make it much easier to be genuine, put patients first, face criticism, and train others so that we always succeed in our mission. A patient's smile is the best reward for our success!"

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