Today, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Senator Patty Murray released the following statements regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs’ announcement that current Walla Walla Veterans Affairs Medical Center Director Sharon Helman will become the full time director of the Spokane VA Medical Center:

“Eastern Washington’s veterans have benefited from Sharon Helman’s leadership and dedication. Sharon helped lead and manage a high quality of care for veterans at the Walla Walla VA Medical Center despite the many changes and challenges the facility has faced,” McMorris Rodgers said. “As the full time director at the VA Medical Center in Spokane with continued oversight of the Walla Walla VA Medical Center, veterans who rely on the Spokane and Walla Walla facilities for their care will benefit from Sharon’s leadership, vision and dedication. I am confident Sharon’s leadership will prove essential in making Eastern Washington’s VA medical facilities a shining example of the commitment and dedication our nation has for caring for veterans and their families.”

“I am thrilled that the VA has recognized Sharon’s outstanding work and is giving her the opportunity to help even more veterans in Eastern Washington. Her leadership in Walla Walla has increased access to care and services to our region’s veterans. And her enthusiasm and ‘get-it-done’ attitude have made a real difference throughout our region. I can’t think of a better advocate for our veterans or a better person for this expanded position than Sharon,” said Senator Patty Murray.

DeAnn Dietrich will assume the position of acting director at the Walla Walla location on June 2nd.

Contact:
Destry Henderson
202-225-2006
202-279-0418