Photo By Master Sgt. Ryan Campbell | Lt. Col. Robert Burnham, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo...... read more read more
(CANANDAIGUA, N.Y.) - Lt. Col. Robert Burnham, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District, made a significant visit to the Canandaigua VA Medical Facility, marking his first visit as district commander on Dec. 18, 2024.
It was a purposeful visit, beginning with a tribute to retired Army Master Sgt. Stan Sharp, a decorated veteran and former military policeman and combat engineer, with more than 30 years of military service.
The visit began with the USACE team having lunch with Sharp, sharing stories and experiences. After which, Burnham honored Sharp for his remarkable career, which spanned decades of dedication.
Sharp’s military journey began when he enlisted in 1976 and saw him stationed across the country from Alaska to New York. Completing his stint on active duty, his service continued in the Army Reserves, balancing military commitments with a fulfilling civilian life.
“I did six (years) and I enjoyed my service,” said Sharp. “When I put the uniform on, the people I worked with, so I’d do six and I just kept signing up for six more.”
Sharp’s dedication to his military service was matched only by that to his family and community. During his time in the Reserves, he worked full-time for the Rochester City School District, raised two sons and a daughter, and actively engaged in community activities through coaching his sons’ wrestling teams.
In an unexpected twist in his career, Sharp was called back to active duty at the age of 55 for a deployment to Iraq from 2009 to 2010, where he served as a Liaison for the U.S. Army and the Iraqi Military.
The deployment was a unique experience for Sharp, who brought decades of experience to an environment of younger Soldiers. Despite the challenges, he embraced his mission and afterwards retired with over 30 years of service.
“I joined the Army because I needed a job,” said Sharp. “But I enjoyed it, the military has been good to me and so I want to give back anything I can.”
Sharp has been featured in commercials for the Canandaigua VA facility, part of his desire to constantly give back.
“If I was a young man, I’d serve the country again,” he said.
After honoring Sharp’s service, Burnham his visit to the ongoing construction and renovations at the facility. The tour showcased significant progress in upgrading the facility’s living quarters, common areas and recreational spaces.
Designed with veterans’ comfort and accessibility in mind, the renovations aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents.
The common areas are being fully outfitted with fully equipped kitchens, bistros and TV lounges to foster community and relaxation. One of the most notable improvements is the redesign of building connectivity, ensuring that residents no longer have to step outside to access their appointments or other facilities — a crucial enhancement for convenience and safety, particularly in harsher New York winter weather.
The living quarters are also undergoing significant upgrades, incorporating lifts, open-concept designs and accessible bathrooms to accommodate veterans with varying mobility levels. The updates reflect a deep commitment to ensuring that all veterans, regardless of ability, can live with dignity and comfort.
Burnham’s visit highlighted the ongoing efforts to support those who have served through improved infrastructure and resources, ensuring their contributions are met with the respect and support they deserve.
| Date Taken: | 12.18.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 12.30.2024 09:11 |
| Story ID: | 488412 |
| Location: | CANANDAIGUA, NEW YORK, US |
| Web Views: | 53 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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