Local Students Respond with 6,000+ Cards for 'Valentines for Vets'

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA – In an effort spearheaded by Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-San Francisco/San Mateo counties) and Anne E. Campbell, Superintendent of the San Mateo County Office of Education, roughly 6,300 cards were created by elementary to high school students from 60 local schools in the call for "Valentine’s Day cards for Veterans."

Staff members delivered the cards to the San Francisco VA Medical Center on Tuesday.

“It is heartening to see the outpouring of support and admiration from these students for the men and women who have served our country,” Speier said. “Their beautiful artwork and heartfelt messages are a wonderful symbol of connection, respect and unity.”

Speier was inspired by the tradition that syndicated newspaper columnist Ann Landers started 28 years ago, when she encouraged her readers to send Valentine's cards to veterans in VA facilities across the country.

Messages from area students this year included one from high school student Gabrielle, who wrote, “I would like to take the time to say thank you. Thank you for being so brave & going to fight for our country. You protected us & put your life on the line for us. You are so appreciated & loved. I can’t find any other words besides thank you. God Bless you!”

Elementary student Devlin wrote his Valentine message in an acrostic,

“V is for Very Special

A is for Amazing

L is for Liberty

E is for your heroic Effort

N is for Noble

T is for Treasured

I is for Impressive

N is for Nice

E is for Excellent

S is for Strong

Thank you for your bravery your courage and risking your life for my freedom.”

And second-grader Angela wrote, “Hi! How are you? I’m great my name is Angela. I am 8 and I am in second grade. I hope you have a happy Valentine’s Day. Thank you for being a hero. You are the best hero. What is your favrit colr?”

Very sweet!

• ALSO SEE: Legislation Proposes Allowing CA Bars, Restaurants To Serve Alcohol Until 4 A.M.

--Image and information submitted from the office of Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA-14)