Sailors and Marines assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) and the littoral combat ship USS Detroit (LCS 7) visited the Bruce W. Carter Veterans Affairs Medical Center during a community service event as part of Fleet Week Port Everglades, May 4.

During the visit, the service members were able to spend time with those who went before them.

"Coming here is a great way to give back to our veterans," said Chief Electrician's Mate Gregory Rodriguez, assigned to Detroit. "This lets them know we haven't forgotten them and that we still appreciate everything they've done for us."

While there, the Sailors and Marines also learned about some of the benefits of the VA.

"I think this is a great opportunity for active service members to see what the VA has to offer for when they get out," said Lesharn Jones, a retired Air Force major and nurse at the center.

For the veterans at the facility, the visit provided a chance to reconnect to their roots.

"It's great to see all of you here, mingling with us," said Richard DeMarzo, an Air Force veteran. "These visits always help us feel better."

"It is always amazing to see how happy the veterans are when other service members visit them," said Jones.

Fleet Week Port Everglades provides an opportunity for the citizens of South Florida and visitors to meet nearly 2,000 Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, as well as see, firsthand, the latest capabilities of today's sea services.

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