© 2024 WRVO Public Media
NPR News for Central New York
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

VA Secretary Shinseki helps celebrate anniversary of medical center

Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki is in Syracuse today to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the city's VA Medical Center.

Yesterday, he met with Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner and other community leaders who advocate for veterans for a round table discussion at Fowler High school about how to improve veterans' employment prospects.

Shinseki says veterans need to boost their job-seeking skills, but employers need to develop a better understanding of the value veterans can offer their businesses.

"Not only do veterans make exceptional employees who posses the character, the team-building skills, the discipline and experience that make for good employees, they also provide exceptional leadership," he said.

Shinkseki says Syracuse is a model for collaboration between non-profits, colleges, business and government in helping veterans make the transition back to civilian life.

The anniversary ceremony today will also include the formal opening of the VA Medical Center's new $90 million addition, which houses the spinal cord injury and disease center.