Statement From Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald on Veterans Day

ALBANY, N.Y. (November 11, 2025) – "As we commemorate Veterans Day on November 11, the New York State Department of Health extends our deepest gratitude to and admiration for those who served in the United States Armed Forces.

Veterans Day is a powerful reminder of the dedication and sacrifices made by the brave Americans who selflessly served our country.

There are many of us at the Department of Health who have served honorably on active duty in the Armed Forces. I was deeply influenced in the U.S. Navy, during my own service, by the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment, which remain with me to this day in my current role, as State Health Commissioner.

The Department considers it a profound privilege to oversee and operate our four State Veterans Homes, where we deliver high quality nursing home care to veterans and family members in Batavia, Oxford, St. Albans and Montrose."