Phoenix VA Health Care System

10/14/2026

Shelly Crosson came to the Phoenix VA Health Care System looking for a change. The Veterans gave her something more.

“I love the patients here,” said Crosson, a physician assistant who provides gynecologic care to women Veterans. “Because they’re so grateful, it’s inspired me — renewed my passion for being a PA, actually, through the patients.”

Her colleagues noticed. Crosson received the fifth annual Catherine Yanni-Humbles PA of the Year Award on Oct. 6 at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center. The award is presented each year during PA Week, Oct. 6-12.

“Right now, I have no words,” Crosson said. “I’m honored. I’m in disbelief. It’s amazing when your colleagues recognize you,” she said. “It’s nice to know that your colleagues recognize and see what you’re doing and appreciate that and vocalize it in this way.”

Read More: https://www.va.gov/phoenix-health-care/stories/phoenix-va-pa-of-the-year-finds-renewed-purpose-in-caring-for-women-veterans/

10/13/2026

Reminder: Don't forget to join us today!

🎉⚓ Join us as we celebrate the Navy’s 251st Birthday! ⚓🎉

Come out and honor this special day with us:
📅 Tuesday, Oct. 13
⏰ 10 A.M. – 12 P.M.
📍 Carl T. Hayden VAMC – Starbucks Area
650 E Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85012

Enjoy light refreshments while supplies last and help us show pride in our Navy’s legacy of honor, courage, and commitment.

10/09/2026

🎉⚓ Join us as we celebrate the Navy’s 251st Birthday! ⚓🎉

Come out and honor this special day with us:
📅 Tuesday, Oct. 13
⏰ 10 A.M. – 12 P.M.
📍 Carl T. Hayden VAMC – Starbucks Area
650 E Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85012

Enjoy light refreshments while supplies last and help us show pride in our Navy’s legacy of honor, courage, and commitment.

10/06/2026

This week, Oct. 4- 10, is Healthcare Food Service Workers Appreciation Week.

During this week, we want to send a special thank you to our Food Service Workers for their hard work and dedication as we celebrate Food Service Worker Appreciation Week. Every day, Food Service Workers make an extraordinary commitment to providing nutritious and delicious meals to our Veterans. They diligently prepare and serve more than 15,000 meals per month, ensuring that the dietary needs of everyone are met, and often go above and beyond to bring comfort and care through their service. Their work is a critical but often overlooked component of patient care, contributing to both recovery and overall hospital experience.

Our food service team is staffed by individuals who take great pride in their work. The NFS team consists of 30 Food Service Workers, 10 Cooks, and 8 Health Technicians. During Healthcare Food Service Week, we commend the dedicated members of our food service staff for their unwavering commitment to their vital role in patient care. We also recognize the hard work, devotion, and passion they bring to their jobs every day.

10/05/2026

From serving in the Air Force to contributing to communications systems for the Apollo 11 lunar landing module, Ralph Ponce de Léon has a lifetime of service to celebrate. 🇺🇸🚀

Today, the 92-year-old Veteran continues that legacy as a Phoenix VA Ambassador, welcoming Veterans and guests with a smile.

Originally from El Paso, Texas, Ralph served as an airplane mechanic during the Korean War. After earning his chemistry degree, he joined Motorola, where his work helped support the historic lunar mission.

Now, wearing his red Ambassador vest, Ralph finds purpose in giving back.

“Volunteering here is so satisfying,” he said. “At 92 years old, it’s satisfying to know I’m helping others.”

Thank you, Ralph, for your service and for making Phoenix VA a welcoming place for fellow Veterans! ❤️

09/28/2026

It can be hard for Veterans to reach out if they’re struggling – but in the eyes of their loved ones, seeking help can be an act of bravery. If you or a Veteran you know needs support, find resources at http://VA.gov/REACH.

09/25/2026

Don't wait. Reach out. Find Veteran resources at VA.gov/REACH.

09/25/2026

This Hispanic Heritage Month, VA honors the generations of Hispanic Veterans and service members whose courage, commitment and sacrifice have strengthened our nation. From battles of the past to missions of today, their legacy of service inspires us all.

09/23/2026

This year, from September 21-25, VA is participating in . Buddy checks emphasize simple, actionable ways Veterans can support one another through connection and outreach. If a Veteran you know is dealing with stress, feeling isolated, or going through a difficult time, your check-in could save a life.

Learn More: https://www.va.gov/REACH/for-veterans-helping-veterans/

As a Veteran, you’re in a unique position to support other Veterans through the simple act of reaching out.

09/22/2026

Metallica’s James Hetfield and Robert Trujillo have an important message for Veterans. If you or a Veteran you know needs support, find resources at VA.gov/REACH. Contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive free, confidential support and crisis intervention available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call 988 and press 1, text 838225 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.