American Legion Post 49 and Auxiliary Post 49 kicked off National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week on Sunday, February 11, 2024, by hosting 33 patients, staff and volunteers from the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). These guests were escorted in their buses from the Hampton VA by a motorcycle to the Smithfield American Legion Post where they were treated to a lunch and entertained by Disk Jockey and Post Member Joe Krueger. After a welcome by Commander Jerry Starling, all were served a fried chicken, ham and fixings dinner. Eight members of the Auxiliary and 10 Legionnaires prepared the meal, served their guests and visited with them individually to exchange stories about their lives and service. Post Commander Jerry Starling said, “The Smithfield Legion is so proud to host these brave former warriors and make a small effort to show them our appreciation for their service.”