Each Valentine's week, hospitalized veterans in VA medical facilities across the country are honored during National Salute to Veteran Patients Week.
It's an opportunity for people in the community to visit hospitalized veterans and thank them for their service and sacrifice.
One of those veterans is Charles Clasby, 61, of Louisville. He's currently recuperating at the VA Medical Center on Leestown Road in Lexington.
He was a career Air Force man whose service began in 1968 during the unpopular Vietnam War.
Because of the way many Vietnam Veterans were treated when they returned home, this recognition week is especially gratifying.
"It's a whole, total different attitude. I think a lot of people today realize the sacrifice that the young men and women make," said Clasby.
Valentine's Day is always a busy one during this annual salute week. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky are scheduled to visit the Leestown Road facility, as is Democratic Congressman Ben Chandler, among others.
Visitors are scheduled throughout the week.
The salute week lasts through Friday.
