From Combat to Care: Local county veterans recognized at ceremony

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Deschutes County Health Services unveiled a new wall today honoring the 18 veterans who currently work for the department. The display recognizes service members from every branch of the U.S. military, except for the newly formed Space Force.

Health Services has the highest number of veterans among all county departments. Nearly 30 staff members gathered for the unveiling ceremony, which highlighted the department’s strong ties to military service and community commitment.

Keelan Lundquist, an intensive case manager with the department, served four years in the military, completing tours in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Philippines. “It was bittersweet as I think all of our service is but it was important,” Laundquist said.

Operations coordinator Darin Darlington also reflected on his service from 1990 to 1994 in the U.S. Army’s Military Police Corps. “I am right here,” he said with a smile while standing beside the new wall. Darlin has worked for the County for over a decade, and worked with the Sheriff's Office in the late 1990's.

Support specialist David Sonnier described seeing his name included on the wall as “pretty cool” and said he felt honored to be recognized.

Despite having more than a thousand employees across the county, Health Services staff say their team still feels small and close-knit. Many employees describe the department as a place where everyone tends to know everyone—a community strengthened by shared service and support.