In a significant step towards honoring and memorializing the contributions of veterans, GovCIO, a prominent provider of advanced technology solutions, has announced its collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration (NCA) to introduce an innovative feature on the Veterans Legacy Memorial (VLM). This new feature, known as 'Your Story, Your Legacy,' is designed for veterans approved for pre-need eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery.
This initiative aims to give veterans a dedicated platform where they can share invaluable aspects of their lives, encompassing both military service and personal milestones. Veterans can upload images, autobiographical details, and significant documents, all of which will be preserved by the VA. Following the passing of a veteran and their interment, the shared stories and memories will be showcased on their permanent memorial page, accessible to family members and the public.
James LaPaglia, the VLM Program Officer, emphasized the importance of firsthand accounts, stating, "Who better to talk about their time in service and their life stories than veterans themselves?" This collaborative effort not only creates a lasting legacy for the veterans but also helps family members gain a deeper understanding of their loved ones' unique experiences.
Since the VLM launched in 2019, the platform has received overwhelming support from family members and friends, leading to over 165,000 memories being added to veteran pages. Currently, the site hosts nearly 10 million memorial pages, celebrating the lives of veterans interred in various cemeteries, including VA National Cemeteries, state/tribal cemeteries, and Department of Defense cemeteries, among others. The expansion of the VLM continues as NCA plans to incorporate additional memorial pages from cemeteries maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission later this year.
GovCIO has been at the forefront of developing, implementing, and maintaining the VLM site for the NCA since its inception. The introduction of the Living Veteran feature further cements the company’s commitment to supporting veterans' legacies and ensuring that their contributions are recognized for future generations. Kristin Gill, the Sector President for Veteran and Enterprise Technology Services at GovCIO, expressed pride in the company's role in telling the stories of veterans who have significantly impacted the nation.
CEO Jim Brabston echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to support such a crucial mission with the VA. He assured that maintaining an excellent customer experience on the VLM site remains a top priority, underscoring the company's dedication to enhancing the program continually.
To begin creating a Living Veteran Page, interested veterans and their families can visit
www.vlm.cem.va.gov/livingveteranhome. Family members and friends are also encouraged to find their veterans' pages at
www.va.gov/remember and contribute to their legacies.
GovCIO is recognized for its swift growth and dedication to providing advanced technology solutions to the federal government. By integrating its deep understanding of federal operations with innovative IT approaches, GovCIO aims to develop comprehensive solutions that address the evolving needs of government agencies. The company’s track record spans various sectors, including military, Veterans Affairs, and Health and Human Services, showcasing its versatility in optimizing federal operations.
To learn more about GovCIO's initiatives and their vision for transforming government IT, visit
www.govcio.com. This collaboration is not just about technology; it’s about honoring the legacies of those who served and ensuring their stories are told for generations to come.