WHY:

To honor hospitalied veterans; to increase community awareness of the VA's role in providing comprehensive medical care to the nation's veterans; and to encourage Americans to visit hospitalized veterans and work as VA volunteers.

BACKGROUND:

The annual VA National Salute program began in 1978 when the VA took over sponsorship of a program started in 1974 by "No Greater Love, Inc.," a humanitarian organization. VA Voluntary Service staff plan and execute local programs of activities at VA medical centers. The traditional observance during the week of Valentine's Day is appropriate because the sentiments of caring and sharing match the Salute's purpose of expressing honor and appreciation to hospitalized veterans.

In the past, veterans received cards and letters from all over the world - Guam, Australia, Germany and Canada, just to name a few. Teachers, churches, Scouting groups and social organizations have used this program to bring their students a personal venue to their nation's history. It gave them an opportunity to talk about veterans and who they are.

This program is responsible for countless touching scenes of volunteers, with their colorful, thoughtful valentines, brightened the lives of elderly veterans. It has uplifted so many veterans in our hospitals that valentines are often seen in the rooms well after February has passed. What volunteers provide with their caring notes and well wishes can have more power to give these veterans hope than any treatment or pill ever prescribed.

We in the Portland VA Medical Center are committed to caring and courtesy by meeting the ever-changing needs of our veterans, especially the brave men and women hospitalized as a result of their selfless service.