Almost 100,000 veterans are cared for at Veterans Affairs facilities around the country, and the volunteers there are seen as a priceless asset by the veterans.

It's almost impossible to calculate the exact number of man hours that the 140,000 volunteers give in the caring and sharing they provide for patients, but they are certainly appreciated by the families of veterans and the Department of Veterans Affairs.Gary Sinise, who is remembered for his role as Lt. Dan from the movie "Forrest Gump," has also been a tireless worker for veterans' causes. The award-winning actor says we may never be able to repay them for their sacrifice, but everyone can do something to help those who protect our freedoms. It may be something as simple as a warm smile, a supportive hand or a sympathetic ear just to let the veterans know how much they are appreciated.Veterans always appreciate heartfelt recognition and agree with Sinise that sometimes the simple "thank-you" can go a long way. Last year more than 310,424 valentines were received at VA medical centers, and 18,770 members of the public visited more than 72,000 veteran patients.The National Salute of Veteran Patients program is being held this week to increase community awareness of Veteran Affair's role and also encourage Americans to be more engaged by visiting hospitalized veterans and volunteering.Our region is served by the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center, located at 1111 East End Blvd. The 502 volunteers used at that VA hospital range from 14 to 98 years old. Outpatient clinics are also located in Allentown, Bangor, Pottsville and Frackville.At the end of World War II, nearly 10 percent of the population was on active duty in the military, and many families had at least one family member in uniform. Although we've been engaged in the War on Terror in Iraq and Afghanistan for the past 13 years, only three quarters of 1 percent of the population has served in those places.Regardless of the numbers of men and women serving, the personal sacrifices involved in defending our freedoms through the generations have not changed.Everyone can do something to let our veterans know how much we appreciate them, even if it's taking the time to send or personally deliver a letter of thanks or a Valentine's Day card.By JIM ZBICKtneditor@tnonline.com