[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 21 (Thursday, February 4, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E109]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING VETERANS DURING NATIONAL SALUTE WEEK

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                             HON. JIM BANKS

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 4, 2021

  Mr. BANKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to veterans 
cared for by the Department of Veterans Affairs in northeast Indiana 
and across the United States.
  Each year, the week of February 14 is an opportunity for Americans to 
express their collective gratitude for the more than 9 million veterans 
of the United States Armed Services who are cared for in the VA system. 
This year's National Salute Week is the most important one to date, 
given the difficult times our nation has faced over the last 12 months 
with many of America's veterans hardest hit.
  This week also serves as an opportunity for Hoosiers and Americans 
everywhere to learn about the role of the VA medical system, to 
encourage citizens to visit hospitalized Veterans and to become 
involved as volunteers Nationwide, over 61,000 volunteers provide more 
than 9.2 million volunteer hours serving America's veterans. Volunteers 
are a priceless asset to our veterans, to the VA and to the country.
  As a veteran myself and member of the House Veterans' Affairs 
Committee in Congress, I am honored to have served in uniform and to 
serve the people of northeast Indiana in Congress. One of my top 
priorities has been, and always will be, ensuring those who served the 
United States receive the honor, care, and opportunity they deserve.
  This is a testament to the honor and sacrifice of those heroes who 
have served our country, and to those who serve them

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