VA Western New York Healthcare System invites Veterans and the public to participate in an open-house at the Buffalo site, 3495 Bailey Ave. on Tuesday, February 14 during the National Salute to Veteran Patients.

It is observed annually during the week of Valentine's Day, a day of caring and sharing which underscore the Salute's expression of honor and appreciation to inpatient and outpatient Veterans.

All Veterans are encouraged to attend the special event held where a ceremony to introduce local celebrities will take place in Freedom Hall, room 301 at 1 p.m.
For the thirty-fourth consecutive year, the nationally syndicated column started by Ann Landers, now called “Annie’s Mailbox” has devoted a column to the National Salute, asking readers to send Valentine cards and letters to hospitalized Veterans at VA medical centers. "Valentine cards made by school children with messages are coming in and will be displayed and distributed," said VA Medical Center Interim Director Craig S. Howard. "February 14 is always an enjoyable day with local celebrities, elected officials, and other groups visiting bringing Valentine’s Day cheer to our patients.” VIPs that have responded to date are, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Erie County Sheriff Tim Howard, WYRK radio personality Clay Moden, Buffalo Bills Alumni and Buffalo Bisons’ representatives.
Howard said he encourages Veterans who may be visiting for the first time to know we are here to serve their health care needs and to stop in to the Veterans Service Center to enroll in VA health care. In addition, the public can learn about volunteer opportunities at this special event.
"Our medical center’s 552 volunteers are an important part of our health care team and the National Salute program is a great way for people to learn more about helping the Veterans we serve here at the medical center,” Howard said.
Activities at the Batavia site at 222 Richmond Avenue include entertainment with “Ron and Nancy” on Tuesday, February 14 beginning at 1:30 p.m. in the Community Living Centers.