Safety, security, and wellness for patients, providers, and visitors are top priorities at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). You’ll find the VA Police Service playing a critical role advancing these priorities and maintaining safety every day at VA Medical Centers (VAMCs), outpatient clinics and across all VA. One such Police Officer focused on health and safety is Corporal Lee Higginbotham, who recently made headlines for saving a child’s life while filling up at a local gas station. Keep reading to learn more about why he loves his VA career and be inspired to “be better for the Veterans.”
What encouraged you to apply to VA?
“I started out as a police officer in Texas, and then joined the Army, where I stayed until 2021. I didn’t even know VA had police, but a few friends encouraged me to apply. Being a Veteran myself who goes to the Dallas VA and knows the community—I figured, “Well, why not?”
What’s your favorite part of your job?
“The Veterans. I like serving these guys. I hear all kinds of stories from our past Veterans from Vietnam and so forth. I’m able to relate with them a little more than your average civilian who has never served. We talk the same talk.”
What’s surprised you most about working at VA?
“I didn’t realize how many Veterans we actually serve! And to be honest, I was scared to come to VA. You hear stories—but it’s not bad at all, actually. I try to instill that into the Veterans coming in—just come. It’s a quick process to get you in, get enrolled, and provide a service to you. I enrolled two Veterans about a week ago!”
What advice would you give to another police officer who is thinking about applying to VA?
“It’s not your typical police department. We really try to be a calming presence. Be prepared to provide a lot of direct customer service and do a lot of talking. We often help bridge the gap between Veterans and the staff.”
What career advice do you have for other employees in your field and throughout VA?
“Just better yourself. Take time to understand the policies, understand the Vets, and understand the staff members. You have to be able to put yourself in their shoes to be able to help. Just be better for the Veterans.”
Anything else you’d like to share about your experience working at VA?
“I just love working for VA. I love working for the Veterans. We have a logo on our squad card that says, “We protect those that served” and I hope that I hold that dear to the community of Dallas and our surrounding agencies. “
Work at VA
If you’re All About Veterans like Corporal Higginbotham, consider a rewarding career at VA.
- Explore career opportunities on VA Careers.
- Learn more about police careers at VA.
- Discover VA’s mission of service.
