Perhaps one of the best kept secrets at WLA VAMC is our reputation for having one of the cleanest morgues in Los Angeles County. Their accolade reflects the perserverance of the entire staff headed by Dr. Joan Howanitz and the tireless commitment of autopsy contractor, Vidal Herrera. Vidal exemplifies the success one can achieve when determined to overcome what fate has dealt him. Laid up and disabled due to an on-the-job back injury, Vidal started a small business. His firm evolved into a nationally renowned enterprise, Autopsy/Post Services, Inc., which he readily admits wouldn’t have succeeded to this extent had it not been for the VA.

Aside from the serious nature of morgue duties, Vidal uses his motivational skills to encourage others to change their focus by channeling their energies to run marathons . Several dozen WLA VAMC employees competed in the L.A. Marathon this past March. Vidal’s team had eight runners and three bike riders. Five members of the team also competed in the annual Jimmy Stewart Marathon Relays. To join the team, contact Vidal at 1-800-AUTOPSY.