News
Canyon Vista Medical Center and The Legacy Foundation of Southeast Arizona Announce the 2025/26 Veterans Wall Honorees
September 03, 2025
Canyon Vista Medical Center and the Legacy Foundation of Southeast Arizona are proud to announce the 12 honorees for the 2025/26 Veterans Wall.
Since its inception in 2015, the Veterans Wall has recognized 12 veterans each year who have made a lasting impact on our community. These distinguished individuals have carried forward the values of service and sacrifice long after their time in uniform, enriching Cochise County through their leadership, volunteerism, and generosity.
The Veterans Wall honors those who have worn the uniform of the U.S. Armed Forces and significantly contributed to their communities. Each honoree exemplifies the spirit of selfless service, making Cochise County a stronger and more connected place to live.
2025/26 Honorees:
Louie “Gunny” Aviles – U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant (Ret.), owner of Gunny’s Barbecue and dedicated supporter of veterans, youth and community organizations throughout Cochise County.
Joe Farmer – U.S. Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.), educator, school administrator, faith leader, and volunteer serving local youth and veterans.
Polly Gosa, MSN, RN – U.S. Army Specialist, longtime nurse educator and Legacy Foundation board member, recognized for her dedication to healthcare, veterans and philanthropy.
Donna Inman – U.S. Army Sergeant, longtime volunteer with the American Red Cross, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and community veterans’ organizations.
Frank Liebsch – U.S. Army Sergeant Major (Ret.), engineer and civil servant, Knights of Columbus leader and community philanthropist.
Jerome Loucks (Posthumous) – U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Four (Ret.), entrepreneur, youth sports supporter and community benefactor.
William McCormick, DO – U.S. Army Major, orthopedic surgeon, community leader, Sierra Vista City Council member, and longtime advocate for health and safety.
Brenda Petitt – U.S. Army Specialist, school district leader, veteran advocate, Cub Scout leader and community volunteer.
William “Bill” Polakowski – U.S. Air Force Colonel (Ret.), community food bank volunteer, youth minister and Knights of Columbus member.
Lawrence “Larry” Portouw – U.S. Army Colonel (Ret.), former Fort Huachuca Garrison Commander, pilot mentor for youth and community nonprofit leader.
Ruth Quinn – U.S. Army Sergeant, longtime Canyon Vista Medical Center Board Chair, and community history and scholarship supporter.
Ronald Roberts – U.S. Army Sergeant First Class (Ret.), Disabled American Veterans leader, volunteer driver and lifelong supporter of veterans and youth.
We honor and thank these outstanding individuals for their extraordinary service and dedication to our community.
The Veterans Wall Ceremony will take place Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at Canyon Vista Medical Center, 5700 E. Hwy 90, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635. Please RSVP to Natoyah Swift at 520.263.3299 or RSVP@CanyonVistaMedicalCenter.com by November 1.