Veterans line up for vaccine in Philadelphia; Delaware dentists answer the call

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- With the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, President Joe Biden wants to administer 100 million shots in his first 100 days.

On Saturday, across the Delaware Valley, there was a push to get those who need it most, starting with veterans.

At the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, veterans 75-years-old and older and those with chronic health conditions rolled up their sleeves to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Marine Corps veteran Ed Murray says he was initially apprehensive about the shot, but realized the benefits far outweighed the risks.

"I think it's extremely important if you want to keep yourself safe, keep your community safe, keep your family safe," Murray said.

VA officials are in the middle of a campaign to get as many veterans vaccinated as possible.

"We're very lucky here at the VA to be able to provide large scale vaccination for our veteran population who tend to be an underserved and actually a really vulnerable population," said Matt Garin, Deputy Chief of Staff for Patient Safety and Quality at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center.

In Delaware, part of the rollout includes getting more health care workers to administer the doses.

Three dentists received training and vaccinated 150 people Saturday.

"To kind of help everybody out, I think it's really what this is all about," said Dr. Erik Bradley, from the Dental Associates of Delaware. "This is about us giving back to the extent that we can and to help the state and the nation get back on its feet."

Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties published websites that allow you to pre-register and show your interest in getting the vaccine.