NFL stars salute hospitalized veterans.

Baltimore Ravens running back Musa Smith and offensive lineman Jason Brown know much about the courage and sacrifice of those who serve our nation. Smith's brother John lost a leg during a mortar attack while serving in Iraq. Brown's brother, Army Spec. Lunsford B. "Ducie" Brown II, was killed in a mortar attack in Abu Gareeb, Iraq, on Sept. 20, 2003.

Smith and Brown were among several players from three National Football League teams to visit patients at VA medical centers (VAMCs) in Baltimore, Chicago and Tampa to bring cheer and pay tribute to those who have served our country.

"It was very supportive of these outstanding athletes to visit hospitalized veterans in these cities as part of their team's salute to veterans on Nov. 7," said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson. "Some of these players know first-hand the courage and sacrifice of our nation's veterans. These players took their day off to say thanks to veterans."

Other players visiting VA medical centers in their respective cities included Baltimore Ravens fullback Justin Green, Chicago Bears wide receiver Rashied Davis and defensive end Copeland Bryan, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Joey Galloway, defensive end Dewayne White, guard Sean Mahan and center John Wade.

"The players spent about two hours at the VA medical centers signing team memorabilia and specially-designed DAV autograph cards carrying our message of support and care," said Wilson. "The players and teams that arranged the visits have been just great, and we know the veterans were thrilled to see them."

"Many patients were thrilled to see Rashied and Copeland, and were honored that the Bears players thought enough of them to take time to visit," said Jesse Brown VA Medical Center Voluntary Services Program Manager Marie L. James. "We can't thank the DAV enough for sponsoring this visit."

Chicago Bears officials said the team participates in numerous events and activities to show their continued support for the men and women who defend our country.

Visiting Tampa Bay players brought along team pennants for all the patients and autographed footballs for some severely wounded Iraq War veterans being treated at the Tampa VA Polytrauma Center.

"The visit with the Ravens went really well," said Baltimore VAMC Voluntary Service Specialist Dallas Renninger. "The veterans loved them, and Musa, Jason and Justin really enjoyed visiting with the veterans."

"We took Polaroid photos of the patients with the players and they autographed the frame," said Renninger. "We gave each veteran we visited a photo."