June was a truly rewarding month—filled with meaningful celebrations and one incredible milestone.

That milestone, of course, was the 250th birthday of the United States Army on June 14, and I was honored to represent the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) at commemorative events in both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

For two and a half centuries, the U.S. Army has served as the enduring shield of our Republic—defending freedom, answering the nation’s call, and standing watch at home and around the globe. As American citizens, you can continue to count on the Army—the most capable and professional fighting force in the world—to stand ready for the next 250 years and beyond.

As we celebrated the Army, we also recognized the indispensable role of the National Guard, which continues to serve as the vital link between our military and our communities. Here in Pennsylvania and across the country, the Guard stands ready in times of flood, fire, pandemic, or unrest—Always Ready, Always There.

June 14 was also a life-changing day for 52 cadets of the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy (KSCA), who graduated from the academy’s 22-week residential program. The KSCA is designed to give at-risk teens a second chance and a path toward a better future. These cadets now enter a 24-month mentorship phase in their home communities, where they will continue their education, begin careers, or even join the military. To each graduate—congratulations. Your future is brighter because of your commitment and resilience.

From June 14–21, DMVA also celebrated Veterans’ Homes Week at all six of our veterans homes. It was a week of fun, gratitude, and connection—with events like carnivals, musical performances, comedy shows, picnics, parades, campfires, military ceremonies, and even petting zoos.

The joy and care poured into these events reflected the deep appreciation we hold for both our residents and the dedicated professionals who serve them. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this week so special. You truly brought our veterans the recognition and joy they deserve.

Finally, we capped off the month with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 27, where Gov. Josh Shapiro and I officially opened the Lickdale Veterans’ Outreach Center in Jonestown, Lebanon County.

This new center provides veterans and their families with a convenient, in-person way to meet with accredited veteran service officers to apply for military benefits. It also offers training and meeting space for veteran advocacy groups and service organizations.

With this opening, we’re sending a clear message to veterans of every generation:
You are seen. You are heard. You are not forgotten.

To learn more about the center and its services, including hours of operation, please visit www.dmva.pa.gov. I encourage you to stop by—our dedicated staff are ready and honored to help.

Wishing you a great and safe start to your summer! 

Major General John R. Pippy

Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA