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Air Force medical leaders salute veterans

  • Published
  • By Linda Frost
  • 59th Medical Wing Public Affairs
LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Senior leaders from Wilford Hall Medical Center paid tribute to men and woman who have served before them Feb. 12 at the Audie L. Murphy Veteran's Hospital, San Antonio, Texas, as part of a week-long national salute to veterans.

The annual National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Program was established as an official Veteran's Administration program in 1978 to recognize the sacrifices American veterans have made for their country and to increase community awareness of the medical center's programs.

Each year the VA invites military and community leaders to visit with veterans, deliver valentine cards, and see firsthand the care they are receiving.

Three squadron commanders from the 59th Medical Wing visited the veterans. Attending the event were Col. Thomas Seay, 59th Radiology Squadron; Lt. Col. Thomas Payne, 59th Medical Inpatient Squadron; and Lt. Col. Judy Gavin, 59th Training Squadron.

"It was rewarding to have the opportunity to go out and meet the people who paved the way for the rest of us and honor the sacrifices they made," said Colonel Gavin.

The VA salute opened with the posting of colors by Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students from Memorial High School, San Antonio, followed by a welcome from Mr. Toby Matthews, assistant director, South Texas Veterans Health Care System. Guests were then assigned a patient unit to visit, accompanied by an escort.

"It was wonderful to be able to express our appreciation to veterans who, through their service, have ensured the freedoms that I think many people take for granted in this country," said Colonel Seay. "I feel that this is something that is not done enough. We were all very proud to have the opportunity to do this."

The group toured the hospital and spoke to veterans who served from World War II to current conflicts.

"It's important to let them know that they have our respect, to hear some of their stories and, in turn, share some of the things we do today in our jobs," said Colonel Payne.