Watch CBS News

'It Means Volumes': VFW In Dorchester Administers 300 COVID Vaccines To Veterans On Saturday

DORCHESTER (CBS) - A vaccination clinic setup in Dorchester on Saturday focused on aging veterans, where it was first come, first serve.

The VA is partnering up with local VFW Posts around the state to not only make it easier to get the COVID-19 vaccine, but to reach out to more veterans who might be nervous about the process.

VFW Post #1018 in Dorchester was converted to a vaccine clinic on Saturday for just one day, and was able to vaccinate 300 veterans that were 65 and older.

The rules were a bit different than the rest of the state. Since the VA is under federal control, they have their own supply of doses.

Volunteers and veterans say it's an honor to give back.

"It means volumes," said Robert Santiago, Commissioner of Boston Veterans Services. "I, myself, am a veteran, and these veterans raised their right hands and served our country. So it's our turn to serve them as well."

The veterans that got their shot on Saturday already had to be in the VA healthcare system to apply. Their second doses will come in mid-March.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.