Valley Healthcare Salutes Local Veterans: In the heart of Santa Clara Valley, the heroes among us aren’t just those who served their country; they’re the military veterans at Valley Medical Center. These dedicated staff members, who once wore the uniform, are now celebrated for their unwavering commitment to selflessness.
Pattie Beebe, a proud Air National Guard veteran with nine years of service, including nursing duty on the Channel Islands, epitomizes the spirit of public service. Now an RN and nurse educator at Valley Medical, she reflects, “It’s nice to be recognized. Everybody has different facets to their history, and it’s nice to have the recognition. I also really wanted to show up for the other veterans too.”
Joseph Grijalva, who joined the Army at the age of 20, emphasizes the transformative impact of military service on discipline and structure. He recalls the influential role of a Vietnam veteran neighbor who steered him toward joining the Army, saying, “You just get in trouble. Why don’t you join the service?”
Supervisor Otto Lee, a 28-year Navy Veteran and guest speaker at the event, honors these everyday heroes who don’t get to stay at home. He underscores their selfless service, particularly during the pandemic, stating, “These are true heroes in our community.”
Also Read: Silicon Valley Battle for Justice: Unmasking a Cops Racism
The ceremony extended recognition to other local veterans like Steve Fondacaro, an Army infantryman and West Point graduate with 30 years of uniformed service. Fondacaro played a crucial role in bringing the first Stand Down event to Santa Clara County in July—an initiative that consolidates veterans’ services and providers in one accessible space.
Supervisor Lee announces that Stand Down will become an annual event in the South Bay. Looking ahead, he shares plans for housing solutions for homeless veterans, with a recently acquired 4.3-acre site at 10 Kirk Avenue. This site aims to provide enhanced services, connected to the VA or Veterans Services Office, with potential renovations to create a more conducive and modern environment for those who have served our country.