SALISBURY, N.C. -- A Navy veteran is now in charge of the medical center at the Salisbury VA.

Joseph Vaughn officially started this past week.

He’s now charged with ensuring care for the 90,000 plus veterans who use the facility.

He explained his plans for the center, and assured he's up for the new challenge.

"So what I would say to them is, whatever experience they've had with this VA or any VA in the past, give me a chance," said Vaughn. "I’m a veteran just like they are. I choose to get my care here. Give me a chance to make it right."

Vaughn said one of his big focuses will be on mental health for veterans as well as suicide prevention.