[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 2]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 1897]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                NATIONAL SALUTE TO HOSPITALIZED VETERANS

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                          HON. KAREN McCARTHY

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 13, 2001

  Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, in 1978 the Department of 
Veterans Affairs designated the week of February 14 as ``National 
Salute to Hospitalized Veterans,'' calling upon the nation to focus on 
hospitalized veterans by making personal visits, hosting programs, and 
sending valentine cards to veterans from an appreciative country. 
Twelve years ago columnist Ann Landers called up Americans to 
participate by sending a valentine to hospitalized veterans on February 
14. The response has been tremendous as school children, clubs, 
churches, and individuals sent notes of affection to those who gave the 
greatest gift of love through their patriotic service.
  ``National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans'' was originally known as 
``No Greater Love Day'' in tribute to those who sacrificed to protect 
the future of the United States and the freedom each of us enjoys 
today. Those who choose to serve know that ``Greater love hath no man 
than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.'' (John 
15:13.) In recognition of an injury sustained during times of conflict 
a soldier receives a heart, the Purple Heart, the greatest honor and a 
symbol of admiration. In tribute we are reminded to send a valentine 
message from the heart to veterans wounded in action and to all who 
served.
  As we salute our veterans, we must also recognize the medical care 
provided by VA medical centers, clinics, and nursing home facilities. I 
applaud the efforts of the hundreds of compassionate men and women who 
have dedicated themselves professionally to our veterans. Our veterans 
are receiving the best of care from people who care. This includes 
volunteers, many of them veterans, who provide countless hours of 
medical and customer service. Collectively they help provide that 
personal contact which means so much. As we extend our heartfelt thanks 
to our veterans, it is the appropriate time to also acknowledge the 
dedication of those who provide professional and voluntary care.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in saluting our veterans who served in 
times of peace and war and those who care for our veterans. Happy 
Valentines Day, a day that symbolizes true love and appreciation.

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