Governor Corbett Encourages Pennsylvanians to Take Part in National Salute to Veteran Patients Week

ERIE, Pa., Feb. 11, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today encouraged every Pennsylvanian to participate in National Salute to Veteran Patients Week at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers across Pennsylvania.

"Those who have served deserve our thanks and recognition," Corbett said. "I encourage every Pennsylvanian to take time this week to visit hospitalized veterans and volunteer at their local VA medical center."

The Governor, along with local legislators, spent the afternoon at the Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) visiting with patients, and touring the medical center.

Built in 1951, the Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center serves veterans in a nine-county area in northwestern Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and southwestern New York. Erie VAMC is recognized as one of the top-performing medical centers in the delivery of high-quality health care.

National Salute to Veteran Patients Week is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. The purpose of the National Salute to Veteran Patients Program is to pay tribute and express appreciation to veterans, increase community awareness of the role of the VA medical center, and encourage citizens to visit hospitalized veterans and to become involved as volunteers. The Salute will feature free musical concerts, Valentines from Americans around the country, and special ceremonies for the Nation's Veterans from appreciative citizens.

For more information on National Salute to Veterans Patients Week visit http://www.va.gov/

Media contact: Owen McEvoy 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor