SAME TRADITION, NEW NIGHT

DAV

On Oct. 23, 1983, a suicide truck bomber attacked the Battalion Landing Team headquarters in Beirut, killing 220 Marines, 18 sailors and 3 soldiers. Marine veteran and DAV member Keith “EZ” Ezell was among the survivors of the peacekeeping mission in Beirut.

Later in life, though, he would face an invisible foe lurking within his own body. An aggressive form of bladder cancer had been waging a secret war against him.

In his time of need, Ezell was able to turn to a fellow Marine veteran of Beirut and DAV benefits advocate Don Inns.

Read the full story, “Beirut veterans continue struggle after 40 years,” at the link in the comments. ... Read MoreSee Less

DAV

Sometimes, the difference between a veteran receiving the benefits they’ve earned and going without them starts with someone who takes the time to listen.

When a morning walk brought Marty Patterson into contact with Vietnam veteran Stephen Jameson, it set in motion a chain of events that would change Jameson’s life—and bring his family much-needed peace of mind.

DAV benefits advocate Kirk Patterson discovered that Jameson’s record didn’t reflect the full extent of his combat wounds and toxic exposure. He helped file new claims, ultimately securing benefits that eased the burden on Jameson’s daughter and caregiver, Erin.

It’s a powerful reminder of why DAV’s work matters. Every veteran deserves the benefits they’ve earned, and no veteran or family should have to navigate the process alone.

Read Stephen’s story: dav.la/3U08hZI. ... Read MoreSee Less