Honoring John Hempel

HONORING JOHN HEMPEL -- (Extensions of Remarks - March 17, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. JON C. PORTER
OF NEVADA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2004

Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the dedication and years of hard work by Mr. John Hempel as he retires after more than thirty years of service to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Mr. Hempel was appointed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs as the Director of the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS) in Las Vegas on January 14, 2001. As Director, Mr. Hempel directed the planning, organization, coordination, and control of patient care, administrative, and support operations. He was also responsible for maintaining and improving the healthcare system and VA relationships in the community.

In addition to years of service to the VA, Mr. Hempel also bravely served his country as a combat-wounded Vietnam veteran. He served as a platoon leader and executive officer with A Troop, 1st Armored Cavalry, Americal Division in South Vietnam from 1969-1970.

During his service in the Las Vegas area, Mr. Hempel was the driving force behind significant improvements in the VA health care system. As a long-time supporter of veterans in Nevada, it was a pleasure for me to work with Mr. Hempel serving veterans in Southern Nevada.

I am honored to join with all Nevadans in honoring John Hempel on his many accomplishments and wish him well in his retirement.

END