UCLA Operation Mend

UCLA Operation Mend Operation Mend provides advanced surgical and medical treatment for post-9/11 era service members

Operation Mend was established in 2007 as a partnership between UCLA Health and the United States military. The program is available at absolutely no cost to the veterans or service member. Operation Mend was envisioned by Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center Board and Executive Committee member Ronald A. Katz after a visit to Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC), a leading burn and rehabilitation center in San Antonio, Texas, where he and his wife Maddie provided a lead gift to build a new 42-unit Fisher House. This visit inspired the Katz family to secure a commitment from UCLA to partner with BAMC on Operation Mend. “I think it is the private sector’s duty to stand up … and do something extra to help,” said Katz. “I asked UCLA Health if there was a way that we could offer our services and give these kids and their families not only the best the Army has to offer, but the best the country has to offer.” The program is open to members from all service branches. All medical care, travel and accommodations are provided AT NO COST to Operation Mend participants and their families.

Today, we proudly marched in the NYC Veterans Day Parade. 🇺🇸For more than a decade, Operation Mend has walked down Fifth...
11/11/2025

Today, we proudly marched in the NYC Veterans Day Parade. 🇺🇸

For more than a decade, Operation Mend has walked down Fifth Avenue beside our Veterans and caregivers, and every year we are reminded of the strength that comes from community and the power of healing together.

The energy, pride, and unity we felt today embody our mission to bring hope and healing to every Veteran and family we serve. 💙

📸:

UCLA Health

11/11/2025

We were honored to be featured on MSNBC’s Morning Joe with long-time Operation Mend supporter Willie Geist! 🇺🇸

Hearing from Buster Miscusi and Dr. Kevin Bickart reminded us that recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI) is not only medical but also emotional, relational, and deeply human. Their words truly captured the heart of our mission. 💙

At Operation Mend, we walk together every step of the way. Thank you to everyone who joined us at the NYC Veteran Parade and to those who supported from afar. ✨

UCLA Health

11/11/2025

Grab your Operation Mend gear and wear your support proudly. 💙

We’re honored to stand alongside our Bruin Veteran community, including the UCLA Veterans Club and student Veterans like Sumin and Triniti, who continue to serve others beyond their time in uniform by supporting Operation Mend.

Every purchase helps fund free, life-changing care for post-9/11 Veterans and their families. When you shop, you’re part of the mission to heal the wounds of war. 💛

➡️ Shop today: https://bit.ly/4oLdfDw

David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, UCLA Store, UCLA Veteran Resource Center, UCLA Health

This Veterans Day, we’re walking for the Warriors and caregivers who inspire us every day. 👟Whether you’re with us in NY...
11/07/2025

This Veterans Day, we’re walking for the Warriors and caregivers who inspire us every day. 👟

Whether you’re with us in NYC or walking from home, wear your Operation Mend gear and show your support with pride. 🎖

Don’t have gear yet? We’ve got you covered — shop today and walk with us: https://bit.ly/4oLdfDw

Every purchase helps heal the wounds of war. 💙

UCLA Operation Mend

Get ready to walk with us this Veterans Day.Operation Mend gear is here, from hoodies to hats and beyond. Every purchase...
10/31/2025

Get ready to walk with us this Veterans Day.

Operation Mend gear is here, from hoodies to hats and beyond. Every purchase helps support our mission to heal the wounds of war. Wear your impact, walk with pride, and show our Veterans they're never walking alone.

🎖️ If you'll be in New York City, join us at the Veterans Day Parade and walk alongside our team.
🌍 Can't make it? Walk where you are — and wear your Operation Mend gear to show your support!

Grab your merch: https://bit.ly/4oLdfDw 🧢

UCLA Operation Mend

10/29/2025

Looking back at last year's Veterans Day Parade, we're reminded of the moments that matter most, standing alongside our Warriors, caregivers, families, and supporters as we honor their courage and celebrate their strength. 💙🇺🇸

This year, we can't wait to return to NYC and be surrounded by our Operation Mend community as we pay tribute to those who have served and those who continue to serve. ✨🗽

UCLA Health

This year, Operation Mend is honored to celebrate 10 years of partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project and the Warri...
10/22/2025

This year, Operation Mend is honored to celebrate 10 years of partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project and the Warrior Care Network. 💛

In that time, we’ve walked alongside 1,200+ warriors, and been part of a network supporting 6,000+ Veterans and caregivers nationwide — delivering hope, healing, and connection to those who have given so much.

Every warrior’s story matters. Every caregiver’s journey matters. And it’s our privilege to be part of their path. 💙

Ten years behind us. A lifetime of healing ahead. Read the full article: http://bit.ly/3W9isIY

Today, we celebrate 250 years of courage, sacrifice, and service. ⚓️💙From its historic beginnings to today, the U.S. Nav...
10/13/2025

Today, we celebrate 250 years of courage, sacrifice, and service. ⚓️💙

From its historic beginnings to today, the U.S. Navy has helped shape our nation’s story, and its heroes carry the mission within them long after leaving active duty.

To every Sailor who has served and continues to serve: thank you for your dedication and strength. 🇺🇸

📷 navy.mil

UCLA Health

Today is World Mental Health Day 🧠For many post-9/11 Veterans, the battles don’t end when service does. Some wounds are ...
10/10/2025

Today is World Mental Health Day 🧠

For many post-9/11 Veterans, the battles don’t end when service does. Some wounds are invisible, and the hardest fights are often the ones we cannot see.

At Operation Mend, we walk beside Veterans and their families, providing the care and support needed for healing. If you’re a post-9/11 Veteran seeking support, we’re here for you.

📞 Call us: 310-267-2110
🌐 Learn more: bit.ly/46a5v6f

For many Veterans, life after service is about finding their next mission. 💛This National Disability Employment Awarenes...
10/02/2025

For many Veterans, life after service is about finding their next mission. 💛

This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re shining a light on the challenges Veterans living with disabilities face and the importance of inclusive opportunities that honor their service and their skills. 🎖️

At Operation Mend, we’re proud to be part of UCLA Health, helping Veterans turn their military experience into opportunities that honor their skills and service. Together, we’re working toward a future where every Veteran is supported, valued, and empowered. 🌟

This month and every month, we honor the employers and organizations helping ensure every Veteran has the chance to thrive. 🙌

Healing is a shared path, and Alicia Maddaloni walks it with strength and purpose. 💛As a wife and caregiver, Alicia has ...
09/30/2025

Healing is a shared path, and Alicia Maddaloni walks it with strength and purpose. 💛

As a wife and caregiver, Alicia has been a steady force through her husband’s recovery: holding space, asking hard questions, and learning how to show up for him and herself.

With Operation Mend, she didn’t just receive support, she became empowered. Her clarity, commitment, and care are a crucial part of their healing journey. 👣💫

UCLA Health

This September, we're proud to shout out Tiffany Ponza as an Ally of Operation Mend. As a Case Manager, her compassion a...
09/25/2025

This September, we're proud to shout out Tiffany Ponza as an Ally of Operation Mend. As a Case Manager, her compassion and dedication make a life-changing difference for Warriors and caregivers each day. 🌟

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor Tiffany's impact and the diverse voices that strengthen Operation Mend. Thank you, Tiffany, for your care and commitment to healing. 💛

UCLA Health

Address

924 Westwood Boulevard, Ste 400
Los Angeles, CA
90095

Telephone

+13102672110

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Our Story

Established in 2007, Operation Mend is a pioneering program. It combines the best of the military's resources with the skills of UCLA Health System for a comprehensive and collaborative approach to healing United States military personnel wounded and disfigured in Iraq and Afghanistan. Envisioned by Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center Board and Executive Committee member Ronald A. Katz and his wife, Maddie, Operation Mend's original goal was to give returning service members with severe facial injuries access to the Army's best burn center and the nation's best plastic and reconstructive surgeons. In a partnership with Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC), a leading burn and rehabilitation center in San Antonio, Texas, the V.A. Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, and UCLA Health System, Operation Mend started with facial reconstruction. Official page of UCLA Operation Mend.