America's military veterans face a variety of issues beyond those of people who haven't served in the military.

They deserve our thanks and our respect and what's more, they have earned medical benefits that often they don't seek.

That's why events such as the annual veterans' health fair held by the Pittsburgh Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, in partnership with the Jefferson County Veterans Service Commission and Steubenville City Schools, is an important event.

For the 16th year, the event will be held in Steubenville for area veterans.

It's a chance for learning more about Veterans Administration benefits. As important, it's a chance for veterans to receive free health screenings for blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure and vision testing, among other tests. Veterans also will be able to receive free flu shots and new veterans' identification cards.

The importance of the annual event cannot be underscored enough. During the past 15 years, more than 6,800 area veterans have received screening services.

We owe a debt of gratitude to the nation's military, but they have earned for themselves the medical and other benefits. We hope that this year, as in years past, veterans take advantage of the health program and the opportunity to learn about other VA services.

The health fair will be held in the Steubenville High School commons from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.