Recent VA News Releases


        To view and download VA news releases, please visit the following
Internet address:
                        http://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel>


        Entertainers Honored for Support of Veterans

        WASHINGTON (February 10, 2003) - The movers and shakers of the
entertainment industry were honored for their support of veterans in the 8th
Annual American Veterans Awards television program on February 9.

        Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi honored actor
Gerald McRaney for his work as chairman of the VA National Salute to
Hospitalized Veterans campaign in 2002.  McRaney has agreed to continue
serving as chairman in 2003.

        "I am pleased to honor Gerald McRaney for his support of veterans,"
Principi said.  "He has spent countless hours visiting hospitalized veterans
and encouraging others to join him in volunteering to help veterans."

        The show aired on The History Channel February 9, at 7 p.m., EST.

        Additionally, the Woman of the Year Award was presented to actress
Bo Derek for her work as the Honorary National Chairperson for VA's
rehabilitation special events.

        Willie Nelson presented the Veteran of the Year Award to Kris
Kristofferson.  The show also honored those in the military and veterans
communities for their service to the nation.

        The airing of the American Veterans Awards show coincides with the
kickoff of National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week, an annual
celebration at VA health care facilities honoring the men and women who
served their nation.

        Community and state officials, military and veterans organizations,
and youth groups often join with the public during the National Salute Week
to visit patients in VA hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities.

        Members of the public are encouraged to call their local VA health
care facilities to participate in the 2003 National Salute to Hospitalized
Veterans.  At the VA medical centers, they should ask for the voluntary
service office, which coordinates the event.


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