Milwaukee VA hosts Valentine's party for veterans

This week leading up to Valentine's is also a time that Veterans Administration is showing appreciation for patient veterans nationwide.

On the Friday before cupid's day the Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee hosted a party with plenty of good food and music.

There was also a special present from Harley-Davidson motorcycle company;a t-shirt for every veteran.

Patients and veterans who volunteer at the facility gathered for some conversation.

It was a chance to take a break from appointments and treatment and some veterans wanted to clear the air about all the negative headlines associated with some VA facilities.

\"As far as I'm concerned all the stuff you hear is not true,\" Fred Schutz of Okauchee Lake told CBS 58 News, \"Milwaukee is one of the best there is.\"

Bob George of Fox Point says his World War II cap seems to really spark a lot of interesting conversations when he's out and about. \"People come up to me and thank me. They seem to be appreciate what we did.\"

Workers from Johnson Controls came in to volunteer with the festivities.

The Fresh Market also pitched in.

Local children made hand crafted Valentines that served as decorations.

A symbol that in our community we have taught the children well to appreciate the sacrifice of previous generations.

National Salute is observed annually during the week of Valentine's Day, a day of caring and sharing which underscores the Salute's expression of honor and appreciation to inpatient and outpatient Veterans.

\"Our focus is on the hospitalized veterans, but all veterans are welcome,\" said Stephanie Pulsfus, director of Voluntary Services. \"It's just going to be a fun and exciting event, and our way of saying 'Thank you.'\"