Veterans Care Excellence Program

With its long-standing and storied history of engagement across all branches of the military, Penn Medicine is committed to supporting employees and patients who have served or continue to serve in the U.S. military. The Veterans Care Excellence Program (VCEP) fosters a strong veteran community by actively recruiting veterans, honoring national military observances, and ensuring that veteran patients are aware of and can access the resources available to support their health, well-being, and success.

Learn more about VCEP's mission and goals

Please join us as we salute those who have served our nation—and are part of the extended Penn Medicine family.
 

Penn Medicine Joining Forces Reception

The Power of the Story: Healing Through Connections With Those Who Serve
Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025 • 5 to 7 p.m.
Location: Smilow Center for Translational Research - Lobby (In-Person)
Watch online
Click here to RSVP

Speakers include:

• PSOM Dean Jonathan A. Epstein, MD

• UPHS CEO Kevin B. Mahoney

• Bridget Murnaghan, Alfred Reginald Allen Memorial Professor of Greek

• Ralph Galati, U.S. Air Force veteran and former POW

Reflections on service and the human spirit

Bridget Murnaghan will explore the meaning of military service in modern times through the lens of ancient Greek poetry, offering a thought-provoking reflection on courage, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds of humanity.

Learn more
Watch recording

Building on that theme, Ralph Galati will share his harrowing 14-month experience in North Vietnam after his aircraft was shot down in 1972. His story highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of shared experiences.

Galati will reflect on his transformative journey—from self-pity to embracing responsibility and upholding values in the face of extreme adversity. He will discuss the importance of the POW code of conduct in maintaining integrity and dignity under pressure and express gratitude for the support he received from the American public.

This event invites Penn Medicine employees, their families, friends, and veterans to honor those who have served under the theme: The Power of the Story: Healing Through Connections With Those Who Serve.

Penn Dental Medicine: New Patient Admissions Fair for Veterans

Friday, Nov. 7 and 14 | 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: 240 S. 40th Street

Penn Dental Medicine invites veterans to receive:

• FREE dental screenings

• FREE oral cancer screenings

• FREE dental x-rays

• FREE parking vouchers (ACME lot, 40th & Walnut)

• Oral hygiene instructions + supplies

• Direct access to schedule future dental care

Call 215-573-VETS (8387) to schedule an appointment.

The Philadelphia Veterans Parade and Festival

Sunday, Nov. 9 | Noon
Location: Ben Franklin Parkway at 21st Street

The Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival will take place on Sunday, Nov. 9, at noon, and will proceed down Benjamin Franklin Parkway and end at the Philadelphia Art Museum & Eakins Oval.

Learn more

University of Pennsylvania Flag Raising

Tuesday, Nov. 11 | 9 to 9:30 a.m.
Location: College Green

Join the Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs, the Penn Veterans Collaborative, Penn Navy ROTC, the Veterans Care Excellence Program (VCEP), Student Registration & Financial Services, and others for the annual Flag Raising Ceremony.

In case of rain, the event will be held on the first floor of the Franklin Building, 3451 Walnut Street.

University of Pennsylvania Veteran Student Luncheon

Thursday, Nov. 13 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Location: University of Pennsylvania Student Service Center, Franklin Building (3451 Walnut Street)

The UPenn Veteran Service Office is hosting a luncheon for all veteran students.

Please RSVP by emailing lmanuel@upenn.edu.

Homecoming 250: A Celebration of Service

Events throughout Oct. & Nov. 2025

Homecoming 250 honors 250 years of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps with ship tours, community celebrations, educational exhibits, and ceremonies recognizing those who serve.

Learn more

Deals and Discounts

Take advantage of deals and discounts on meals, haircuts, retail purchases, services, activities, and more.
Click here to view the full list of 2025 Veterans Day discounts.