ERLANGER, Ky. – DAV (Disabled American Veterans) has named Van Karg of Hutchinson, Minnesota, as its 2025 DAV Volunteer of the Year. Karg will be formally recognized Aug. 9 during the 2025 DAV and Auxiliary National Convention in Las Vegas.

Members who donate significant time through either the Local Volunteer Assistance Program (LVAP) or the Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) program are eligible for the award.

Over the past 30 years, Karg has logged more than 15,000 volunteer hours working to improve the lives of veterans. As a DAV Transportation Network volunteer driver, he regularly drives more than 30,000 miles a year bringing veterans to their VA medical appointments.

“Van is the go-to person in the community, his DAV chapter and the surrounding area of Hutchinson,” said Oather Martin, the past commander for DAV Department of Minnesota. “Whenever someone comes across a veteran in need, the first thing they say is ‘contact DAV and ask to speak to Van Karg.’ He truly believes in our mission to help veterans lead dignified lives with quality.”

Martin said that in addition to driving veterans to their appointments, Karg will deliver medical equipment like wheelchairs, medical beds and chair lifts to veterans in need throughout the entire state. He also organizes seminars for other ill and injured veterans to learn about the benefits they’ve earned from service.

“As a Vietnam veteran who needed help when he came home, Van learned about the impact volunteers can have on others’ lives,” said DAV National Commander Daniel Contreras. “He gives back because he wants to be that person to other veterans. I find that incredibly honorable and an example we can all follow.”

In addition to his volunteering efforts, Karg is the adjutant of DAV Chapter 37 in Hutchinson.

He will receive the George H. Seal Memorial Trophy in honor of the World War II combat-injured paratrooper who made significant contributions during his career as DAV’s national VAVS representative and as a member of the VAVS National Advisory Committee.