Maj. Gen. James K. Gilman, commanding general of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, visited the Veterans Affairs Hospital while he was attending the Advanced Technology Applications for Combat Casualty Care conference here in Tampa Aug. 18.

Gilman spent a few hours visiting with the active duty Servicemembers.

Gilman said, "Last year, I visited the VA hospital because I knew a Soldier who was a patient." He also said, "I have become sensitized to Soldiers in the VA hospital because I know they don't receive many visits so I want to take the opportunity to see their advancements. Plus, I miss seeing patients."

Dr. Steven Scott, staff physician, briefed Gilman on the latest advancements in technology that they are using at the hospital. Scott also briefed Gilman on the patients who had either received or will receive cranioplasty.

Air Force Lt. Col. (Dr.) Raymond Fang, Landstuhl's trauma director accompanied Gilman. Some of the patients' families remembered Fang and thanked him for his assistance.

Holly Crabtree, Navy Petty Officer First Class, from Washington, was shot while she was on a mission and was in a coma for a month. "Every day is something new." So far, Crabtree has served 11 years and would love to continue to serve.

She has been at the VA Hospital in Tampa for four months. She was very proud that Gilman visited.

Gilman told the patients that he thanked them for their service and thanked the families.