Southern Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery Receives National Award

SIERRA VISTA, Ariz.- The Southern Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery (SAVMC) staff was honored last week by the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) for their years of excellent service and dedication to our Arizona Veterans.

The NCA, a division of the Department of Veterans Affairs, presented the SAVMC staff with the prestigious Operational Excellence Award in a special ceremony at the cemetery.

“This is a very special and honorable place, we truly appreciate the continued partnership with the NCA and the Southern Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery,” said NCA Deputy Director John Muckey-Rivera.

The Operational Excellence Award is given to state-funded Veteran cemeteries for excellent compliance during their triennial reviews—a rigorous process examining the 95 NCA standards expected for state cemeteries. The reviews rate sites based on a number of factors including ground maintenance, customer service and more.

Muckey-Rivera said that the SAVMC brings their “A game every day” and that they are the “best of the best.”

“We are super humbled by this, we do it not only for our Veterans and their families, but for ourselves. We are so proud of the work that we do here every day,” said Joe Larson, SAVMC Cemetery Administrator.

The cemetery staff were also awarded with the Industry Excellence Award by the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services leadership. Presented by ADVS Director John Scott, the award recognizes the accomplishments of the SAVMC team for their dedication to duty, keen attention to detail and genuine regard for Arizona Veterans and their families.

“I am so happy, over the moon to be recognized for this award” Director Scott said. “We receive so many compliments from this cemetery about how they are treated, the respect for the people who are coming here to lay their loved ones to rest. That is a testament to the leadership and dedication of this staff. We are so proud of you guys.”

For more information on the Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemeteries, click here.