In a recent development, RimaAnn Nelson, the Assistant Under Secretary for Health Operations at the Veterans Department, sent a memo calling for the removal of a famous photograph depicting a Navy sailor kissing a woman in Times Square on V-J Day in 1945. The memo, which argued that the photo did not align with the department's "no-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment and assault," triggered a firestorm of backlash.

Nelson's involvement in this controversy is not her first encounter with scrutiny. Appointed as the head of the Phoenix VA in 2016, Nelson faced widespread criticism for her previous tenure at the St. Louis VA hospital. Both former Democratic Representative, now Senator Kyrsten Sinema, and former Republican Representative Matt Salmon expressed their concerns, with Salmon even writing a letter to then-President Obama, emphasizing the need to reconsider Nelson's appointment in light of her past performance.

During Nelson's time as the director of the St. Louis VA hospital from 2009 to 2013, an investigation revealed that veterans were exposed to HIV and hepatitis due to poor sanitation practices and inadequate training of the staff. Despite the documented problems, Nelson reportedly received over $25,000 in bonuses.

Even after leaving St. Louis, Nelson's tenure leading the Phoenix VA was marred with controversy. The facility was ranked as one of the worst in the country in 2017 under Nelson's leadership, as reported by Fox News.

The recent memo sent by Nelson was promptly rescinded by VA Secretary Denis McDonough, who clarified that the iconic photo is not banned from VA facilities and will continue to be displayed. However, the decision to rescind the memo did not quell the criticism, as two Republicans, Senator Steve Daines and Representative Ryan Zinke, penned a letter calling for Nelson's firing. They raised concerns about the appropriateness and timing of the proposed policy, questioning the qualifications of some of the VA's core management.

Responding to the letter, McDonough expressed support for Nelson, stating that she has dedicated her career to serving veterans and will remain in her position. A VA spokesperson highlighted Nelson's role as the Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Operations, adding that the department is delivering healthcare to more veterans than ever before, with nearly 70% of VA hospitals outperforming non-VA hospitals.

This controversy surrounding Nelson raises important questions about leadership and accountability within the Veterans Department. As calls for her firing persist, it remains to be seen how this situation will ultimately be resolved and what impact it will have on the department's operations moving forward.