943rd Reservists salute hospitalized veterans

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Ruby Zarzyczny
  • 943rd Rescue Group Public Affairs
TUCSON, Ariz. --  Twelve Reservists from the 943rd Rescue Group visited with hospitalized veterans Feb. 11, 2009 at the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, Tucson, Ariz. to celebrate the National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans.

These Reservists and family members visited the veterans in their hospital rooms and in common areas and hallways of the hospital. They gave the hospitalized veterans valentines, made by local school children, and homemade blankets, made by VA volunteers. During their visit they shared "war stories' from the past and present" giving the precious gift of time to the vets.

Everyone who attended the visitation felt that it was time well spent.

"I believe taking time out for our fellow veterans who are sick is very worthwhile. It's a blessing to be able to listen to them as they share their stories," said Tech. Sgt. Beth Barwinski, 943rd RQG.

"During the visit, I felt like we were being honored for volunteering, but the real honor was being in the presence of the older vets and hearing the stories from their past. These are stories you will not find in any book, stories that unfortunately will soon be lost, so for us to get the chance to hear them and thank them for their service was a very memorable experience," said Staff Sgt. Calista Heath-Martinez, 306th RQS

The National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans is a celebration conducted around Valentines Day every year to pay tribute and express appreciation to hospitalized veterans. This event is also intended to increase community awareness of the role of the medical center and encourage individuals to visit hospitalized veterans and become involved as volunteers.