FRENCH CAMP, Calif. — A new Veterans Affairs clinic will soon open in San Joaquin County, ushering in a new era for veterans health services.
The new Richard A. Pittman VA Clinic in French Camp is just days away from welcoming its first patient.
It's a project that took two decades to become a reality and one that will provide much needed services for local veterans.
"Sometimes, it can be a long road, but our veterans were steadfast," said San Joaquin County Supervisor Tom Patti.
The 160,000 square foot clinic offers a number of services including primary care, surgery, pharmacy, physical therapy, dental and mental health services.
"It's the first VA facility of this magnitude in the entire San Joaquin Valley area for veterans," said David Stockwell, medical center director for the VA Northern California Health Care System.
The facility means a lot to veterans who came out to celebrate its opening. Hundreds of people gathering at a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday.
However, passing by this building means that much more to Gina Pittman, the daughter of Richard A. Pittman, who the building was named after.
The Stockton area native served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and was awarded a Medal of Honor in 1968 for his bravery.
"His grandchildren are all over the country; they will go by this place and see my dad's name. They'll know this is where we're from. This is our roots," said Gina Pittman.
Staff will welcome the first patient on Tuesday.
This is just the beginning for the VA clinic. Plans are in the works to expand in the future, including integrating Urgent Care and a 120-bed community living center.
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