They Also Serve
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Portrait of a Hero – John Cook
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Portrait of a Hero – Richard Brinkley
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On the Front Lines This 4th of July
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Portrait of a Hero - James Sinnott
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The Growing Role of Nurse Practitioners
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Portrait of a Hero - Remembering 9/11
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Portrait of a Hero - Dick Eggerding
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Portrait of a Hero - William C Hoch
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Late Board Members Wife Runs Race
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Did you know that every year since 1933, the United States has designated March 30th as National Doctors Day? Physicians in our country make tremendous contributions to our health and wellness every day! Doctors are true heroes, and among those we honor at the Arizona heroes Memorial. Please remember to thank a physician next time you see one!
Hello from the Arizona Heroes Memorial! Today we completed another section of the Legacy Paver Garden with the installation of another order of bricks. Jesus and Frank from KG Landscaping are helping us fill in a very special and personal area of the Memorial that visitors are really touched by, and very much appreciate! If you have a hero in your life, regardless of where they are from, you can permanently honor that special person by purchasing and placing a Legacy paver in our garden. Please stop by and see the Arizona Heroes Memorial in Oro Valley's Naranja Park and experience the finest Memorial of its kind anywhere! You can purchase your Legacy paver by visiting www.bricksrus.com/donorsite/arizonaheroesmemorialinc
Good morning from the Arizona Heroes Memorial at Naranja Park in beautiful Oro Valley, AZ! Today we're announcing that on Wednesday, February 19th we will be hosting a Navy Week celebration at the Memorial. The event will be held starting at 1500 hours (3:00 pm) and is open to the public. The US Navy representatives describe the event as follows:
"Navy Week proclamations are a wonderful way for the Navy and local communities, like Oro Valley, to come together and celebrate the Navy being in the city. It provides the Navy a chance to showcase our Navy Band Southwest and USS Constitution Color Guard team, while also recognizing Vietnam War veterans of all services and our U.S. Navy Gold Star family members in the Tucson area. Additionally, the community has the chance to engage with hometown Sailors and Sailors from one of our namesake assets."
Please plan to join us on February 19th!
Victoria Shoopman – Vice President/Director
Victoria “Vickie” Shoopman, RN, CRRN, CCM, CALM, CHCSP, WTA, FCN, is a distinguished healthcare management executive with over 45 years of comprehensive experience in nursing and healthcare administration. Known for her dedication to community service and her passion for healthcare, Vickie has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in long-term care, case management, and healthcare management.
Vickie began her career by building a solid foundation in clinical experience across various disciplines, including pediatrics and geriatrics. Her journey in healthcare management led her to serve in key roles such as Chief Nursing Officer and Administrator for Home Health Care Agencies and Rehabilitation/Long-Term Care Facilities. She has also held positions as the Educational Instructor, Business Development Manager, and Director of Case Management and Utilization Review for an acute care rehabilitation hospital. Furthermore, Vickie has been instrumental in developing outpatient services and occupational health services contracts for multiple acute care hospitals, showcasing her expertise in healthcare operations.
In addition to her administrative roles, Vickie has served as the National Director of Outreach and Census Development for two of the leading retirement and home care corporations in the nation. She has played a vital role in the development of sales and marketing programs for prominent home care providers and has held the position of Corporate Director of Operations for a multi-million-dollar healthcare management company overseeing skilled rehabilitation facilities and home health care across Arizona.
Vickie’s commitment to healthcare extends beyond her professional roles. She volunteers extensively as a Faith Community Nurse in Southern Arizona, providing support and care to those in need. Her dedication to honoring and supporting veterans, first responders and healthcare workers, is evident through her position as Vice President and Director on the Executive Board of the Arizona Heroes Memorial. In this role, she actively promotes the memorial’s mission to recognize and celebrate the sacrifices made by those who serve the community and the nation.
Throughout her career, Vickie has earned numerous certifications, including Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse, Certified Case Manager, and Certified Assisted Living Facility Manager. Her accolades include being named Student Nurse of the Year in 1972, receiving the National Meritorious Service Medal as Military Spouse of the Year in 2002 for her volunteer work with military families, and being honored as one of Tucson’s Top 50 Nurses in 2015. Additionally, Vickie has served on various community boards in Southern Arizona. Vickie Shoopman’s extensive experience, dedication, and compassionate approach have made her a respected leader in the healthcare and military community. Her contributions to the Arizona Heroes Memorial and her ongoing commitment to healthcare and military exemplify her passion for service and her desire to make a lasting impact in the lives of others.
Kathleen Williams – Vice President/Director
Kay Williams, BS, MBA
Kay started her career as an emergency room nurse but transferred her career to business. At the Boeing Company she worked on DoD, DOE, NASA, and civilian aerospace technical and business programs for over 20 years. At Boeing she worked on the International Space Station, French and British AWACS, the Airborne Laser Program, classified military programs, international programs, and the 727 and 777 aircraft programs. She closed her career managing global philanthropy programs for the company. Boeing sent her throughout the world during her career. Prior to working at Boeing, she worked for Kaiser Engineering and worked on nuclear waste programs.
She has served on several nonprofit boards including the National Science Foundation’s Board for Technical Education, a community college Board for Education, and a shelter for homeless women and children in Seattle. She currently serves on the Board of Trustees for the Oro Valley Hospital, the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Foundation and as Vice President and Director of the Arizona Heroes Memorial.
LCDR Steve Didio, US Navy (Ret) – Senior Vice President/Director
Lieutenant Commander (Ret.) Steve Didio is a remarkable figure whose life journey embodies dedication, leadership, and a profound commitment to honoring the heroes of our nation. Born in New York City and raised in Arizona and California, Steve’s early years instilled in him the values of hard work and resilience. After completing high school in Covina, California, he took the bold step of enlisting in the United States Navy, setting the course for a life dedicated to service.
Steve served nine years as a Sonar Maintenance Technician aboard two surface ships, where he honed his technical skills and gained valuable experience in naval operations. His exemplary performance earned him a selection for Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Newport, Rhode Island, where he distinguished himself by being chosen as the Regimental Commander. Commissioned as an officer in 1986, Steve embarked on a distinguished military career that would span over 24 years.
During his time in the Navy, Steve served in the Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine Force, operating in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets. His diverse roles included various staff assignments, where he contributed to strategic national defense objectives through five major deployments. Throughout his military career, he became qualified in both Surface and Submarine Warfare, earning numerous accolades, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal, and the Navy Expeditionary Medal.
After retiring from the Navy, Steve transitioned into the civilian sector, taking on senior management roles at Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, where he served for 11 years. However, his true calling emerged in 2012 when he chose to dedicate his time entirely to volunteering in his community. As the Senior Vice President and Director on the Executive Board of the Arizona Heroes Memorial, Steve passionately honors the sacrifices of veterans and first responders, ensuring their contributions are recognized and celebrated.
Steve’s commitment to service extends beyond the Arizona Heroes Memorial. He has actively participated in the Oro Valley American Legion Post 132, serving as the Commander from 2017 to 2019 and later as the First Vice Commander until spring 2024. His leadership in these roles has strengthened community ties and fostered a spirit of camaraderie among veterans.
An accomplished scholar, Steve holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Chapman University, as well as a master’s degree from the University of Maryland. His academic achievements complement his extensive experience, making him a well-rounded leader in both military and civilian spheres.
Steve is also a devoted family man. He has been happily married to his wife, Nanette, for 45 years, and together they have raised a son, Cameron. The Didio family has called Oro Valley home for 24 years, where they continue to contribute to the community they cherish.
Through his selfless service and unwavering dedication, Steve Didio inspires others to honor the past while actively shaping a brighter future. His life exemplifies the true spirit of service, reminding us of all of the importance of giving back and honoring those who have made sacrifices for our freedoms and safety of our communities.
Alan Dankwerth – Treasurer/Vice President/Director
Alan Dankwerth, originally from New York City, is a distinguished professional whose career spans military service, business leadership, and community engagement. With a strong educational background, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Master of Business Administration in Marketing Management, equipping him with the foundational knowledge to excel in various fields.
Alan served his country as a Captain and Company Commander in the U.S. Army, where he was a proud member of the Infantry (Airborne). His military experience instilled in him the values of discipline, leadership, and strategic thinking, which have been instrumental throughout his career.
In the business realm, Alan has established himself as a leader in the specialty chemical industry. His extensive background includes global B2B general management, strategic and business planning, and development of strategic alliances, joint ventures, and mergers and acquisitions. He has also been involved in technology licensing, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability in a rapidly changing market. As a partner in an international consulting group focused on the chemical and allied industries, Alan frequently shares his expertise as a speaker at industry conferences and business groups, as well as serving as a lecturer at several universities.
Alan’s commitment to professional development extends into his role as former President of the International Chemical Commercial Development and Marketing Association and various other sales and marketing organizations. His leadership in these associations highlights his dedication to advancing the industry and fostering collaboration among peers.
Beyond his professional achievements, Alan is deeply involved in community service. He participates in the American Corporate Partners Veteran Advisor/Mentor Program, providing guidance and support to fellow veterans as they transition into civilian life. Alan is also an active board member of the Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce Foundation, where he contributes his insights to support local businesses and economic development.
His volunteer work with the Pima County Attorney’s Office includes roles as a Court Advocate and Crisis Intervention specialist, as well as serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for foster children, reflecting his commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
In addition to his professional and community endeavors, Alan is a certified instructor in several martial arts and self-defense systems. He is also a co-owner of a Tucson self-defense and fitness studio, where he shares his passion for physical fitness and empowerment with others.
Through his multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to service, Alan Dankwerth embodies the spirit of leadership, community involvement, and personal growth. His diverse experiences and dedication to helping others make him a respected figure in both the business world and his community.
Dick Eggerding, often referred to as the male “Muse of Oro Valley,” has devoted his life to the enhancement of community art and conservation in Oro Valley. Through his unwavering efforts, he has introduced a vibrant array of art and music to the town, culminating in the vision of the Arizona Heroes Memorial, which aims to enrich the culture of Oro Valley and the broader Arizona community for generations to come.
In July of 1996, the General Plan “Focus on 2020” was established, providing a framework for a flourishing Oro Valley community. Eggerding, a pivotal member of the General Plan Advisory Committee, played an instrumental role in its development. This plan included the Cultural and Historic Resources Element, which recognized the significance of the area’s history and cultural assets, ultimately shaping the town’s future.
In 1994, a Cultural Assessment conducted by the town in collaboration with the Arizona Commission of the Arts reinforced the commitment to preserving historical sites and integrating public art into the community’s cultural identity. These foundational efforts paved the way for the development of Naranja Park and the allocation of land for the Arizona Heroes Memorial, a project spearheaded by Eggerding. The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the memorial took place in February of 2023, serving as a testament to the community’s resilience and dedication to honoring its heroes.
At the inspiring age of 91, Dick Eggerding remains active and passionate about the remarkable landmarks of southern Arizona. His love for the arts blossomed early in his life; as a teenager, he engaged in various school and local commercial productions before receiving a voice scholarship to Washington University. Eggerding began his professional singing career as a tenor soloist with the St. Louis Municipal Opera, performing in over 50 operas during his time with the company.
After marrying Marjorie in 1954, Eggerding was drafted into the United States Army, where he served in a Counter-Intelligence Unit stationed at various locations, including Itazuke Air Force Base near Fukuoka, Japan. During his military service, he and fellow unit members contributed to establishing an orphanage for Japanese children on the outskirts of Fukuoka. Following the war, he transitioned into the insurance industry, eventually becoming the president and chairman of the board of the American Commercial Insurance Agency.
The couple moved to Oro Valley in 1988, where Dick engaged actively in local arts, cultural initiatives, and other community-driven endeavors. He co-founded the Greater Oro Valley Arts Council alongside Bob Weede.
His dedication to the community earned him recognition as one of two “Citizens of the Decade” by the Northwest EXPLORER newspaper, particularly for his work with the Greater Oro Valley Arts Council and his advocacy for open spaces and parks for residents. The inaugural Arts, Music, and Jazz Festival was held in 1995 and continues to thrive today. Furthermore, he secured funding from the Pima Association of Governments for Summer Youth Art Projects, with the first project being the Oro Valley Welcome sign on Oracle Road.
Eggerding’s commitment to community service and the arts led him to advocate for land from a local developer for the Oro Valley Library. He also served as vice president of economic development for the Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce and co-authored the Oro Valley code, which mandates that 1 percent of new construction costs be allocated to public art, ensuring funding for artistic endeavors in commercial and public construction projects.
Among his many initiatives, Eggerding has held various significant roles, including chairman of the Public Arts Endowment Advisory Committee, member of the General Plan Steering Committee, chairman of the Naranja Town Park site task force, and founding member of the Citizens Land Conservation Committee, which is dedicated to preserving “Steam Pump Ranch” and addressing other land conservation issues.
After more than 36 years in the Oro Valley community, Eggerding has dedicated the past eight years to the development of the Arizona Heroes Memorial, which aims to honor the Veterans, First Responders, and Healthcare workers of Arizona. His motivation for creating the memorial stems from a combination of personal experiences, including finding the grave site of a fellow soldier in Korea who was killed shortly before the armistice in July 1953, as well as the sacrifices of his family members and the impact of events like 9/11.
He believes that the people of Arizona deserve a memorial to honor the numerous sacrifices made by those who have served. He envisions the memorial to rejuvenate patriotism, offering ceremonies, educational programs, and ongoing honorary services that will develop respect for the heroes commemorated within its structure.
Looking ahead, Eggerding and his team are actively working to raise funds to preserve and protect the memorial. With construction now completed, the community and its citizens can enjoy the site and learn about the various organizations it represents. The design of the memorial is not only beautiful and awe-inspiring but also essential for the community, as it serves to educate and honor those who have served.
Eggerding lives by the motto, “At the end of each day we should be one step closer to what we should be.” He hopes the community will recognize the debt of gratitude owed to these heroes and commit to ensuring their stories of service and sacrifice are never forgotten. His many accomplishments, including the founding of the Arizona Heroes Memorial, exemplify his lifelong dedication to service, community, and the arts.
