National Salute to Veteran Patients Week, Feb. 8-14, 2026

Walking Halls of Healing with Gratitude

During National Salute to Veteran Patients Week, VA Central Office team members who work with the Human Capital Services Center and the Center for Enterprise Human Resources Information Services embarked on a special mission—to personally engage with Veterans receiving care at the Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center (DC VAMC). On the eve of Valentine’s Day, February 13, 2026, the team was escorted and joined by the DC VAMC Executive Leadership Team and members of the Center for Development & Civic Engagement and Public Affairs teams. Their journey took them through both outpatient clinics and inpatient units, where they encountered Veterans from all walks of life and all eras of service.

Armed with heartfelt greeting cards sent by the Veterans Health Administration Office of Executive Correspondence and thoughtfully prepared gift bags, the VA employees spent one and a half hours walking the medical center, room to room and department to department, ensuring that no Veteran patient would go unrecognized during this special week of appreciation. Dr. Sabrina Clark, Executive Director, Human Capital Services Center, coordinated the day of service for the VA Central Office team to personally engage with and honor Veteran patients while experiencing the VA healthcare mission in action and to further bridge collaborative efforts between the central office and the medical center.  

Dr. Clark draws attention to the importance of connecting as she remarks, "As VA leaders, these visits during National Salute to Veteran Patients Week create visceral, personal connections with those we serve. They remind us that leadership decisions are never abstract—they carry deeply human implications for the men and women who secured our freedom.”

This visit represented more than just a ceremonial gesture during the week-long observance. It embodied the VA’s enduring commitment to all Veterans.  

Vamsee Potluri, FACHE, Executive Director at the DC VA Medical Center notes, "For our VA Central Office leaders and colleagues, the medical center doors swing on welcoming hinges, and we take pride in joining forces to appreciate and honor the Veterans we serve. National Salute to Veteran Patients Week brings focused attention to Veteran patients and their selfless service, the dedication of VA employees, and the gratitude of our nation.”

What is National Salute to Veteran Patients Week?

Observed annually in February, National Salute to Veteran Patients Week is a time when VA employees, volunteers, and community members across the nation honor Veterans receiving care at VA medical facilities. It is an opportunity to express gratitude for their service and sacrifice while bringing comfort and joy to those who may be facing health challenges. Festivities and volunteer efforts are coordinated by the Center for Development & Civic Engagement team. To register as a volunteer or to donate, in-kind or monetary, contact a DC VAMC Volunteer Specialists, .