“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” 
—John F. Kennedy

Thank you for your service – this simple phrase can be so powerful to tell a veteran they are valued. Even more powerful, however, is a real commitment to taking care of our veterans in return for the service that they gave.

Our work at the VA Hospital in Seattle is one way we are saying thank you every day to the veterans who have served our county. Gratitude was a key driver of the design as described in a previous article Healing Focused VA Mental Health and Research Building Breaks Ground.

Monumental wall marks campus entry and frames the flag pole.

Left: Words of gratitude welcome patients. Right: Blue Star Memorial near building entry

Seating areas in the plaza

Terraced rain gardens

Welcoming signage

Words of gratitude.

Curbside pedestrian waiting area with new Mental Health and Research Building behind.