Military City USA® Names 2024 Veterans of the Year

Published on March 12, 2025

SAN ANTONIO (March 12, 2025) – The City of San Antonio’s Veterans Advisory Commission (VAC) and the Military and Veteran Affairs Department (MVAD) have selected the 2024 Veterans of the Year, recognizing outstanding service to fellow veterans and contributions to the community. The selectees were chosen from nominations submitted by the community.

The following veterans have been selected:

• Sgt. Arland Schnacker II, U.S. Army, District 1 and City-Employed Veteran
• Lt. Col. Jerry W. Cheatom, U.S. Army (Ret.), District 2
• Sgt. Tony Fuentes, U.S. Army, District 3
• Command Master Chief Petty Officer Steven Viola, U.S. Navy (Ret.), District 7
• Pfc. Kimberly Davis, U.S. Army, District 8
• Col. Arthur Downey, U.S. Army (Ret.), District 9
• 1st Sgt. Monica Morris, U.S. Army (Ret.), District 10

Established in 2024, the Veteran of the Year Award honors veterans who have demonstrated exceptional service to fellow veterans and made significant contributions to community and civic organizations. The award recognizes one veteran from each Military City USA® district, as well as one City-employed veteran, regardless of rank, who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The member must have had an honorable discharge.

“San Antonio is proud to honor these outstanding veterans for their dedication to service—both in uniform and in our community,” MVAD Director Maj. Gen. Juan Ayala (USMC, Ret) said. “Their commitment to supporting fellow veterans and making a positive impact reflects the values of Military City USA®, and we are grateful for their contributions.”

Selectees will be recognized at a ceremony during the Military Transformation Task Force (MTTF) meeting on March 17 at 9 a.m. at the Concourse Level of City Tower.

The VAC serves as an advocate for San Antonio’s military community, advising the Mayor and City Council on legislative matters affecting active-duty service members, veterans, and their families.