Worcester Bong will be presenting the 160 plus year history of Fort Whipple.

Established in 1863 to protect miners in central Arizona, the fort would later be linked to the newly established town of Prescott, the first capital of the Arizona Territory.

As a key US Army post during the Indian Wars, the fort’s transition will be explained from its initial beginning to a large tuberculosis treatment facility, to today’s medical center complex that provides healthcare for veterans.

Worcester Bong was born in Worcester, Massachusetts.

His 30-year career of federal government service was with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). He worked at VA medical centers in Seattle, Honolulu, and Prescott. In 2008, Worcester joined the Prescott VA as the Chief Engineer/Facility Manager. Later, transitioning to be the Facility Planner, then working for the Medical Center Director’s office.

Since retiring in 2018, Worcester has been an active volunteer with Sharlot Hall Museum. He volunteers at the museum’s Research Center and Fort Whipple Museum. He has authored several historical articles for The Daily Courier. Worcester enjoys playing soccer and golf.