Leaving the military can be overwhelming—especially when navigating VA disability claims. DAV benefits advocates help simplify the process.
At Naval Station Norfolk, DAV is expanding support with a new claims filing center for transitioning service members. The effort is led by Brenda Lamb, who retired after nearly 30 years in uniform and now guides members through filing claims before separation.
“The idea is to make this process as easy and approachable as possible,” Lamb said. “When I tell them ‘I got you,’ I mean that. We are with them through the entire process and beyond.”
The center will offer a centralized, high-capacity space where service members can start and complete claims with immediate, in-person support—no appointments required. This model allows advocates to assist more veterans, reduce delays, and provide both one-on-one guidance and group education.
“Service members will be able to walk over directly from their transition classes and get started right away,” Lamb said. “It cuts out the extra steps and makes the entire experience more efficient… giving them one less thing to worry about.”
Launching in a pilot phase later this year, the center aims to set a new standard—ensuring every transitioning service member feels confident, informed, and supported.
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DAV was honored to host guests from Ukraine today at its National Headquarters in Erlanger, KY. As part of the Cincinnati-Kharkiv Sister City Partnership, DAV leadership met with them to discuss the ways that we treat wounded servicemembers in the United States. Ukrainian veterans Victor, Taras and Oleksandr are running in the Flying Pig Marathon this weekend in Cincinnati to raise awareness for disabled veterans in Ukraine. Check out this conversation to learn more about what their experiences as disabled veterans has been like and how sports have played a major role in their recovery.
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Today is #SilverStarServiceBannerDay. It’s a day to honor the sacrifices behind a veteran’s service. On this day, DAV recognizes the families of wounded, ill and injured service members who carry the weight of service at home. DAV stands by these families through programs like DAV Caregivers Support and by helping relatives of veterans access their VA benefits. If you are the relative of a veteran, you’re also eligible to join the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary! Learn more at auxiliary.dav.org.
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National Military Brats Day is observed annually on April 30 to honor the children of military service members, recognizing their unique sacrifices, resilience, and service. Launched in 2016, the day honors the "hidden service" of military children who face constant moves, school changes and separation from parents. Many “military brats” often develop close family bonds and strong, adaptable social skills due to their upbringing.
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After Army veteran Mark Nehls’ discharge from the military, he received help from a couple of DAV benefits advocates in filing his benefits claim. In honor of Mark’s fellow disabled veterans, he and his wife donated a piece of property to support DAV’s no-cost programs and services. “The idea of donating the property for the benefit of DAV was an easy decision,” Mark said. “We hope the sale of our property helps those programs continue.” DAV’s real estate program takes any property type (land, homes and commercial) in any location so long as there is equity. If you have a real estate asset that is costing you money or not being used, donating it is a great way to give back. The proceeds from your property donation allow DAV to continue providing lifetime support for veterans of all generations and their families. You may even claim a significant tax deduction!
