Groups show their support for veterans in hospitals

School groups, civic clubs and veterans organizations had an opportunity to show their support during National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week at both divisions of the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center.

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"It's an annual event, and we receive about 500 visitors," said Kim Hoge, the hospital's chief of voluntary services, of the activities, which began Feb. 10 and ended Saturday.

On Feb. 12, the Paul Knox Middle School step team performed for a group of active-duty soldiers in the hospital on Wrightsboro Road.

"The girls are giving some community service. We want to let them see the veterans," said Sylvia Butler, who, along with Lisa Raiford, coaches the team.

Other visitors during the week included JROTC units from Greenbrier and Cross Creek high schools, Augusta Lynx players and schoolchildren. On Feb. 11, Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center's commander, Brig. Gen. Donald Bradshaw, distributed cookies to veterans.

On Feb. 14, there was a Valentine's coffeehouse, and on Friday there was a concert by Carl Black.

Each morning, a veterans' support organization such as the American Legion provided refreshments in the main lobbies of both divisions.

"This is a way to get the community involved and to remind them of the sacrifices made by our veterans," Hoge said.