Jesse Brown VA Medical Center

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA) recognized Michael Anaya Sr., a veteran of both the Air Force and Navy, as its October 2012 “Veteran of the Month.”

Anaya serves as director of the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center and was honored during a ceremony at the National Latino Education Institute on Sept. 24. The Illinois Veteran of the Month award is a distinction bestowed upon veterans who continue to serve their communities after leaving the military.

“Director Anaya has parlayed a distinguished career in military health care into highly effective leadership and advocacy in the veteran health care system,” said Erica Borggren, IDVA Director. “A staunch advocate on all veteran-related issues, Michael has a keen understanding of veterans’ needs and has worked tirelessly to develop strategic relationships and partnerships to improve support for veterans in the Chicago area.”

Anaya served in the Air Force (1979-1989) as a Pharmacy Technician and the Navy (1989-2000) in the Medical Service Corps while, concurrently, working towards a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Wayland Baptist University and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Midwestern State University. He retired in 2001 at the rank of lieutenant commander.

The “Veteran of the Month” award highlights the work of community servants who are also military veterans. Each month the Department recognizes a different person or group that contributes to the betterment of communities across the state of Illinois.