Each year during the week of February 14th, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) observes the National Salute to Veteran Patients. During this week, the VA thanks and acknowledges the veterans under medical care.

The VA provides care to just under 100,000 patients each day and millions each year. National Salute to Veteran Patients focuses on VA facilities at the local level to encourage community support. Even though it is not a Federal Holiday, the hope is to increase knowledge in the community of the VA medical center’s role.

The Reason for National Salute to Veteran Patients

While the exact history of National Salute to Veterans Patients is unclear, the reason for this week’s creation is clearly defined. The VA created the National Salute to Veteran Patients for three main reasons:

1. Increase awareness regarding the role of VA facilities
2. Pay tribute to United States veterans
3. Encourage more visitors and volunteers

VA medical centers provide crucial treatments and care to veterans, including mental health treatment, physical therapy, orthopedics, neurology, speech pathology, and a lot more. Raising awareness about these medical centers can further improve the quality of care our veterans deserve.

How to Observe National Salute to Veteran Patients

During the National Salute to Veteran Patients Week, VA facilities often host a lot of activities to raise awareness, including school visits and recreational activities. If you’re looking for a way to get involved, consider the following options:

1. Volunteer

Since encouraging more volunteers was one of the main reasons National Salute to Veteran Patients was created, a great way to get involved is to volunteer your own time and resources. If you want to find volunteer opportunities, contact your local VA medical center to see what help they need. You can also encourage your friends and family to get involved and spend the week offering your services to your local VA facility.

When you start looking for volunteer opportunities, call the VA central number at 1-800-827-1000. Each VA facility will have a Volunteer Representative to help you learn what opportunities are available at your local VA.

2. Visit a VA Medical Center

If you have a little time in your day to spare or would like to get to know some veterans, visiting a VA medical center can make a big difference in a patient’s day. You can brighten their day by bringing flowers, a book, or even just a delightful conversation.

3. Educate Others

Another great way to observe National Salute to Veteran Patients is to share your knowledge with family, friends, and your local community. Educating others about the VA, the services they offer, and how others can support these facilities can help veterans get the recognition and care they need and deserve.

MLC Hopes You Have an Enlightening National Salute to Veteran Patients Week

We hope you’re inspired to get involved with your local VA facility and support our veterans who rely on the VA for their care. National Salute to Veteran Patients Week is a great time to show your support for the veterans who have made sacrifices for our great country. Take the time this year to learn more about the VA and encourage those you know to participate in volunteering and visiting with you.