Daniel has been instrumental in a new process that allows us to recognize and give proper respect to our military veterans who pass at Tacoma General Hospital. Daniel's promise is to ensure every veteran who passes at Tacoma General is given the opportunity to have a Final Salute shortly after death. Daniel brings honor to our veteran patients who pass in our care through his very own non-profit organization that accepts donations used to purchase American burial flags. These flags are then used for a post-mortuary draping and an honor walk. The burial flags can also be presented to the veteran's loved one at bedside to offer honor, respect, and condolence.

Daniel and I share a common background, we were both United States Army combat medics who became nurses. I have the great privilege to work alongside Daniel and see the lives he touches. Daniel's thoughtfulness and sensitivity to our veteran population was something I must share with you, and our entire system, to showcase exemplary acts of selfless service, integrity, and honor.

Daniel spent 12 years as an active duty Army medic. Afterward, he became a nurse and started working at Tacoma General Hospital. When veterans pass under Daniel's care, he personally ensures that the body is given its Final Salute and honored by draping the veteran in the American flag. This is a common practice in the Veteran's Affairs Hospitals but is new to MultiCare. 

Daniel has collaborated with Tacoma General Hospital chaplain services and the Chief Nurse Executive to keep this process alive, even when Daniel is not present. I am extremely proud of the work Daniel has accomplished to honor our veteran patients, and can only hope that this amazing service resonates throughout MultiCare, to be adopted by all of our business units. Daniel has continued to carry the army medic oath to always take care of our brothers and sisters, whether that be to help them get back on their feet, or to assist them into a comfortable transition toward end of life care. Daniel provides exceptional care to his patients to the utmost limits of his capability, keeping the battlefield mentality: "Medics never stand taller than when they kneel to treat the wounded."

For these reasons, Daniel deserves the highly-respected DAISY Award for his remarkable acts of compassion and his drive to go above and beyond.