On Feb. 16, Smithfield (Va.) American Legion Post 49 marked National Salute to Veteran Patients Week by hosting a dinner in the afternoon for 25 hospitalized veterans from the Hampton VA Medical Center. A bus provided by the VA transported these patients and some of their caregivers to the Smithfield post, where they were greeted by Legionnaires and members of the Auxiliary. The Auxiliary provided a fried chicken dinner with fixings to all who attended. Remarks by Post Commander Jerry Starling and Auxiliary President Elizabeth Shepherd thanked these veterans for their service, emphasized that the Legion is always there for them and solicited comments from them. Several veterans and VA staff members expressed their appreciation for an enjoyable afternoon out, the camaraderie shown by members of the Legion, and the chance to talk about their service and current situation. Several of the veterans were accompanied by family members and spouses.