The annual National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans, observed during the week of Valentine's Day, will feature daily visits to patients each afternoon from elected officials and public figures.

The public is also invited to visit veterans who are patients at the George E. Whalen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center at 500 Foothill Drive. Individuals are also encouraged to write Valentine's Day cards and bring or send them to the medical center.

Beginning today, one or more dignitaries are scheduled to visit hospitalized veterans each day through next week. Scheduled visitors include former Utah Rep. Jim Matheson, Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon, Miss Utah Jill Stevens, Medal of Honor recipient George E. Whalen, Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker and injured Iraq War veteran Sgt. Gordon Ewell of the Utah Army National Guard.

For more information about the open house or the VA, contact the VA Salt Lake City Health Care System's Volunteer Service Office at 584-1241.