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National Salute to Veteran Patients

Honor the brave men and women on National Salute to Veteran Patients Day - thanking them for their service and sacrifice for our freedom.

Sunday

14–20

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEWeek containing February 14

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYMilitary

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to wave your flags and show some deep-rooted respect on National Salute to Veteran Patients Day, which takes place on February 11! This patriotic tribute was initiated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in the mid-1970s, brought to life with the noble goal of honouring our nation's heroic veteran patients. Enshrined in the heart of National Salute to Veteran Patient Week, this significant day seeks to pay homage to those brave men and women who fought valiantly for our freedom, and now, as patients, continue to fight their personal health battles with an unparalleled spirit. From heartfelt thank-yous to uplifting gestures of appreciation, let's stand united to make this day special for our cherished veterans. These heroes deserve our unstinting admiration and heartfelt gratitude, today and always!

TIMELINE

National Salute to Veteran Patients Timeline

Veterans Administration Established

The Veterans Administration was established to provide comprehensive medical care to all veterans.

Improvement of VA Services

Significant improvement of medical care services was initiated for U.S. veterans.

National Salute Initiated

National Salute to Veteran Patients Day was established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to honor veteran patients.

Post 9/11 VA Commitment

Increased commitment and resources were directed towards veteran healthcare in response to war veterans from Afghanistan and Iraq.

Increase in Veterans Treatment

An increase in the number of veterans receiving treatment prompts renewed focus on personalized veteran care.

Pandemic Challenges

The VA faces new challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, but continues providing care for veteran patients.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Salute to Veteran Patients

Deliver appreciation cards

One of the simplest and most heartfelt ways to show your appreciation is by delivering handmade cards expressing your gratitude. This gesture is sure to bring a smile to those brave faces.

ARRANGE

Arrange a charity concert

Music has the power to heal. Organize a charity concert in your local community and donate the proceedings towards Veterans' healthcare facilities. It’s a great way of bringing the community together and showing support.

HOST

Host a special lunch date

Cooking and sharing a meal can bring immense warmth. Schedule a special lunch or dinner at your nearest Veterans’ hospital. Remember to include special dishes enjoyed by the veterans!

DONATE

Donate books or start a book club

Easing their time while they fight their health challenges, you can donate books or audio novels to your local Veterans' hospital. Or even better, start a book club discussing their favorite genres and authors. It will keep their spirits high amidst tough times.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a Veterans' hospital

There is nothing more rewarding than spending time with these brave souls. Volunteer at local Veterans' hospitals, get involved, lend a hand or just sit for a chat. Your time and attention can make a big difference in their lives.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Salute to Veteran Patients is Important

Promotes Community Engagement and Support

This day serves as a call to action to individuals and communities to reach out and show their appreciation for veteran patients. From delivering appreciation cards, arranging charity concerts, hosting special meals, donating books, or starting a book club, there are so many ways we can make a real and positive difference in the lives of veteran patients. Every gesture, no matter how big or small, goes a long way in demonstrating our heartfelt gratitude to these brave individuals.

Honors our Veterans' Service

National Salute to Veteran Patients Day allows us to show our deep-rooted respect for the brave men and women who have served our country. These heroic individuals put their lives on the line to protect our freedom, and this day provides an opportunity to express our sincere gratitude for their sacrifice.

Raises Awareness for Veterans' Health Care

Veterans sometimes face unique health care challenges as a result of their service. National Salute to Veteran Patients Day brings attention to these challenges and encourages us to think about ways we can support veteran patients, whether through donations, volunteering, or advocating for better healthcare services and policies for veterans.

Related holidays

WED

Feb 2026

Awareness

National Patient Recognition Day

On National Patient Recognition Day, let's honor and appreciate those who provide care and support to others with love, compassion, and gratitude.

National Invest in Veterans Week

It's National Invest in Veterans Week - a time to honor and support those who have served our country, investing in their future for all they've done.

National Caregivers Day

Honor the selfless hearts who provide care on National Caregivers Day - acknowledging their dedication and tireless work in aiding others.

National Patient Recognition Week

Let's spread kindness and appreciation during National Patient Recognition Week - a time to honor and celebrate the patients who inspire us every day.

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