Members of the Erie County Legislature delivered thousands of cards through the Valentine’s for Veterans program to the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. Cards were also delivered to veteran’s posts throughout Erie County, the VA Clinics in Lackawanna and Springville, and the new Freedom Lounge at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
Erie County Legislators Lynne Dixon, Kevin Hardwick and Edward Rath visited the airbase on Valentine’s Day to personally deliver the cards. Legislators John Mills, Joseph Lorigo and Ted Morton also had schools that participated and sent their appreciation to the servicemen and women.
“Thank you to the airmen of the 914th and 107th Airlift Wings for welcoming us. It is an honor to deliver these cards and messages from our young people, who look up to those who protect our country. We are all grateful to our active servicemen and women and veterans for their service and sacrifices. The Valentines to Veterans program is a simple way to send a special thank you to veterans and active members of the military, and to remind our heroes that they are appreciated,” said Legislator Rath.
“I love the Valentines for Veterans program. When I go into the schools throughout my district I am in awe of the students’ pride for our veterans and their excitement to make them cards to thank them. The students enjoy telling me about their family members who serve and are excited to know they are brightening the day of a veteran or soldier,” said Legislator Dixon. “It is truly a special experience when I deliver these cards and see the looks on the veterans’ faces when they read through the heartfelt messages.”
“Now in its 7th year, the Valentines for Veterans program continues to impress me when I see the appreciation our young people have for veterans and active servicemen and women. I do this program to help teach students about patriotism and showing appreciation, but for the vast majority this is a lesson they have already been taught,” said Legislator Hardwick. “The cards will be delivered not only to veterans in our community, but also sent around the world to men and women currently on active duty. I want to thank the schools that participated for making this program possible.”