Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services Assistant Deputy Director Gary Ochoa. Photo: Rob Gallucci/SV LIVE
Sierra Vista, AZ — The Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery (SAVMC) has been honored with the Department of Veterans Affairs Operational Excellence Award, recognizing their exemplary service and compliance with the highest standards for state veterans’ cemeteries.
SAVMC Cemetery Administrator Joe Larson
The award follows an inspection completed in January 2024 by the National Cemetery Administration (NCA), during which SAVMC demonstrated outstanding adherence to 95 rigorous standards required for state veterans’ cemeteries. This review, conducted every three years, ensures that veterans and their families receive the utmost respect and care during interments and cemetery operations.
An award ceremony took place on September 9th at SAVMC, attended by key figures in veterans’ affairs and local military leadership. Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services Director John Scott, Deputy Director Dana Allmond, and Assistant Deputy Director Gary Ochoa joined SAVMC Cemetery Administrator Joe Larson to celebrate this achievement. Representing the Department of Veterans Affairs was NCA Deputy Director Jon Muckey-Rivera, who presented the award.
Other notable attendees included Brian Jacks, President of the Sierra Vista Veterans Memorial Improvement Foundation, and Command Sergeant Major Jesse Townsend of the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence.
“This is a testament of our commitment to veterans and their families,” said SAVMC Cemetery Administrator Joe Larson. “We are humbled by this award and recognition.”
The Operational Excellence Award recognizes SAVMC’s dedication to maintaining a sacred space for veterans and their families, ensuring a place of rest that upholds the highest levels of care, respect, and national standards.
Learn more about the Sierra Vista Veterans Memorial Improvement Foundation
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