Valentines for veterans

Valentine’s Day came early for veterans at the VA MedicalCenter.

On February 10, members of the Fort Hamilton Senior Centerhand-delivered valentines to them.

We want to let the vets know how much we appreciate them, saidRonnie Ravenhill. When you realize that of the homeless, a thirdare vets, it’s heartbreaking.

It’s the first time the group – who are also members of the newlyformed Friends of J.J. Carty Park – has done something likethis.

We want to do things in the community that make a difference,said Angie V., who at 83 is the eldest of the group. Who better togive love to than the veterans?

She also has plenty of vets in her family; her husband served inWorld War II and all three of her brothers were in the army. Iappreciate all that they have done, Angie added.

The valentines had positive messages, such as, Thank you forkeeping us safe and We appreciate you. Local artist and seniorcenter member Freddy Freda designed the cards. They sacrificed forus, said Polly Catanzano. This little we give is better thannone.

Lucille Pucci, who is married to a veteran, said making thevalentines was a good way for her to keep sharp. It was anopportunity for us to use our creative skills, she said. Asseniors, we have to keep using our minds.

But Eileen Farrell added, It makes me feel like it’s just notenough, she said.

After valentines were delivered at the VA Medical Center, theladies handed out more cards to about forty senior citizens at theShore View Nursing Home in Coney Island.

We want to bring a little joy into their day, Farrell added.