Arizona Vet Volunteers Drive Thousands of Miles for Care

Tom Henderson jokes that his retirement is busier than his legal career ever was. The Vietnam-era veteran now spends his weeks behind the wheel, shuttling fellow veterans across northern Arizona's sprawling landscape to reach their VA healthcare appointments.

Henderson volunteers with Disabled American Veterans, part of a crucial network helping roughly 34,000 veterans access care across an area larger than some states. Many live in remote towns like Winslow, Flagstaff, and even Grand Canyon Village, where the nearest VA facility can be hours away.

The Northern Arizona VA Health Care System operates one medical center in Prescott and 11 clinics scattered across the region. Joe Bartoli, the system's veteran transportation program manager, oversees 11 drivers who travel everywhere from Phoenix to the Utah border, picking up demand that keeps growing as more veterans age and move to the area.

When VA shuttles can't meet demand, volunteers like Henderson fill the gap. The Disabled American Veterans organization stepped up in 1987 when the VA suddenly suspended transportation reimbursements, and they've been driving ever since using donated vehicles.

The challenges extend beyond distance. Dr. Rodd Marcum, primary care chief at the Northern Arizona VA, explains that many veterans face a "digital divide" where lack of internet prevents them from enrolling in care or using telehealth services. Some veterans must drive just to access reliable internet.

Why This Inspires

These volunteer drivers represent more than transportation. They're ensuring that geographic isolation doesn't become a barrier between veterans and the care they've earned. Bruce Nogar, commander of Arizona's Disabled American Veterans chapter, puts it simply: "We don't turn veterans away if they call up and they need a ride."

The organization now helps veterans navigate the complex VA benefits system too. They've launched remote claims stations in Globe and on the Navajo Nation, equipped with laptops and internet access, where veterans can video conference with service officers who help them file paperwork. Most veterans "don't speak VA," says department CEO Carl Forkner, making this guidance invaluable.

Henderson acknowledges the work comes with challenges, from long driving days to more requests than available drivers. But his commitment never wavers: "If they've got a VA appointment and need a ride, we'll find a way to get them there."

That promise is keeping thousands of veterans connected to the healthcare they deserve, one mile at a time.