Veterans Affairs Nursing Partnership Brings New Help To Those Who Serve

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Graduating nurses are getting ready to serve those who have served our country.

The Veterans Affairs nursing program is part of a partnership with the department and the University of San Francisco's school of nursing.

The first class of 18 graduates went through rigorous medical training on issues facing veterans.

With thousands returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq, there's demand for highly trained nurses who understand the sensitivity required to serve veterans.

The benefits of the program are expected to reach beyond Veterans Affairs hospitals. Government officials say as many as 70 percent of veterans receive medical care in local community hospitals and clinics.

Philip Leonerio served with the Marines and is enrolled in the next class.

"Nursing and the military I found to be very synonymous," he said.

The Stockton native believes it's all about identifying with the patient.

"As soon as I identify myself as a veteran it's almost day and night they're very welcoming, very open to suggestions and feel a little more comfortable in the position that they're in," he said.

The VA says it hopes to have four more of the specialized classes over the next five years.