University of Maine at Augusta veteran students and staff took part in the National Salute to Veteran Patients this week by visiting Togus VA Hospital in Augusta. The group handed out donated new winter coats to veterans, along with UMA T-shirts and Valentine’s Day cards, and most importantly visited with veterans. According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs website, “The purpose of the National Salute to Veteran Patients Program is to pay tribute and express appreciation to Veterans; increase community awareness of the role of the VA medical center, and encourage citizens to visit hospitalized Veterans and to become involved as volunteers.”
Melissa Cowing, Salute Coordinator at Togus Veterans Hospital; Michael Malone, UMA Veteran Student; Amy Line, UMA Director of Military and Veteran Services; Jacqueline Thiel, UMA Veteran Student; Leo Porter, UMA Veteran Student; Laurie Krzywda, UMA School Certifying Official; and Vaunalee Foster, VA Veteran Volunteer