WASHINGTON -- The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched a major effort to strengthen its support for emergency preparedness efforts.
"VA's emergency preparedness plans were tested on Sept. 11, and they stood up to the challenge," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. "VA has been called upon to do more -- more to protect veterans and employees, more to support the nation's emergency response."
Principi approved creation of an Office of Operations and Preparedness, led by C. M. (Mick) Kicklighter, in addition to his responsibilities as VA's assistant secretary for policy and planning.
The new office will assume responsibility for VA's EmergencyOperationsCenter and Office of Security and Law Enforcement. It will also oversee VA's readiness and emergency activities, work with other federal, state and local agencies on emergency-related issues and serve as VA's primary liaison with the new Office of Homeland Security.
"In all of these efforts, a prime consideration is ensuring minimal disruption for our veterans and our families," Principi said.
The new office will review VA's specialized health care assets, decontamination, personal protective equipment and isolation procedures, plus treatment capability for victims of chemical, biological, radiological and explosive weapons.
Formal creation of the new Office of Operations and Preparedness will take about 60 days. Some actions, however, such as the office's assumption of VA's law enforcement activities, take place immediately.
