Local Vets Organization Honors APU's Director of Military, Veterans Resources

Veterans - Temecula Valley proudly recognized five outstanding veterans at their 8th annual Tribute to Veterans – Temecula Valley event that was recently held at the Harveston Center in Temecula.  During the program, the veterans were presented with Certificates of Recognition, courtesy of California State Senator Joel Anderson, 36th District Office. 

A few months later, a separate presentation was held to recognize Reservist United States Air Force Lt. Col. Vic Bezjian, DBA. Azusa Pacific University (APU) staff and faculty were present as Chief Personnel Specialist (SW/AW), 

Michael McCracken, President of the Veterans - Temecula Valley, presented a Certificate of Recognition to Bezjian at the new state-of-the-art Azusa Pacific University Murrieta Regional Center.  

“Bezjian was selected for his honorable military service to the United States of America and his continued dedication to veterans,” said McCracken.

Bezjian is the Executive Director of Azusa Pacific University’s Office of Military and Veterans Resources. This office serves as the primary liaison between veteran students, the university, and outside organizations such as the Department of Veteran Affairs.  They handle all veteran issues and offer resources and assistance including counseling.  Bezjian oversees APU’s efforts to help veterans successfully transition to life as a college student and to help them achieve their post-military goals of completing their education in order to begin a new career.  Over the last year, the number of veteran students at APU has increased by 38 percent.         

Promoting community involvement is a priority for McCracken.  

In addition to serving as Founder and President of the Veterans – Temecula Valley, he serves as City of Temecula Community Services Commission Member and on the Murrieta Veterans Memorial Committee.  He helps recruit veterans to join the committee especially veterans from Southwest Asia, Desert Shield, and Desert Storm.  

McCracken is completing his Master’s in Organizational Leadership degree at Azusa Pacific University Murrieta Regional Center.  

“I chose Azusa Pacific University because it has a reputation for being a great university and it offers the one degree that ties together my previous education and military career,” said McCracken.

Azusa Pacific University is a Yellow Ribbon University and a Service Members Opportunity College.   For the second consecutive year, G.I. Jobs recognized APU a “Military Friendly School” for its continued success providing military students with quality programs, discounts, scholarships, clubs, networking, and staff support. For the past 30 years, APU Murrieta has been part of the larger Southwest Riverside County area.

Veterans - Temecula Valley, a non 501(c) 3 established organization, serves as a not-for-profit organization which proudly supports both the Murrieta and Temecula residents Veterans and Veteran's Organizations.  For more information on Veterans - Temecula Valley visit www.veteranstemeculavalley.com.