On September 11, a dozen UC Davis Health employees — primarily from the Real Estate team, Facilities Planning and Development, and Health Equity by Design for Inclusive Excellence — gathered at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery to participate in the National Day of Service.

Their presence was part of a heartfelt initiative led by the Veterans Employee Association (VEA) Employee Resource Group to honor the legacy of those who served our nation. Volunteers assisted by cleaning headstones, helping with landscape maintenance and providing food and water to participants. 

VEA Chair Miles Thorne and Matthew Perez co-planned the event, working to ensure UC Davis Health’s regional presence was felt. Thorne has committed the VEA Employee Resource Group to participating annually, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to service and remembrance.

“On behalf of the Veterans Employee Association, I want to thank the more than a dozen UC Davis Health volunteers who joined us at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery for the National Day of Service,” Thorne said. “Your time, energy, and compassion honored the legacy of those who served our nation. Acts like these remind us that service doesn’t end with military duty — it continues in how we show up for each other and our community. I am proud to stand alongside colleagues who embody that commitment to honor, respect, and service.”

The VEA will continue its commitment to honoring veterans later this year by participating in Wreaths Across America. The date will be announced soon.

Learn more about the Veterans Employee Association and how you can get involved.

Discover more about all our UC Davis Health Employee Resource Groups. These groups are open to anyone, regardless of background, who wishes to support, participate, or be educated in the many cultures and communities at UC Davis Health. Membership and participation in Employee Resource Group activities are not dependent on race, ethnicity, sex, gender, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any protected category under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.