State, local and federal officials gathered yesterday at Camp Atterbury for the official dedication of the new Wakeman VA clinic.

Gov. Mike Pence said the new clinic, which opened for business in February, will make for a signficant improvement in veterans’ health care.

“We have made great progress together, working with so many that are gathered here in this room, on behalf of veterans in the state of Indiana,” Pence said. “Today is one more installment, of the commitment that the state of Indiana and the people of the United States of America are making in meeting the needs particularly in the areas of health care — both physical and mental health– of those who have served.”

“Indiana is the proud home of more than half a million men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States,” Pence said. “We cherish that. We are proud of the contribution has made in the storied history of this country to our armed forces.”

Major General Corey Carr, the head of the Indiana National Guard, said veterans deserve the best health care possible and the clinic will allow the VA to provide more specialized health care.

“It has been said that the measure of a society is reflected in how it takes care of veterans,” Carr said. “This facility will continue to solidify our commitment to the care, welfare and well being of those who have worn the cloth of our nation.”… very best health care.”

Carr explained that the Wakeman clinic, and Wakeman hospital during World War II, were named after Col. Frank Wakeman, who was the director training for the surgeon general’s office in 1940. The hospital was, at the time, the largest hospital in the Department of Defense.

“The Indiana National Guard is proud to provide this facility for the Wakeman clinic, which is near to where the Wakeman hospital once stood.” Carr said. “I can tell you how proud I am to be a partner with all of the National Guard and with the VA in the opening of this clinic.”

The clinic is just off the base on 10th Street.