National Commander Message

Coleman Nee, Commander

A year in service, together

As I reflect on this past year serving as your national commander, I’m filled with gratitude—for your dedication, your compassion and your unwavering commitment to our fellow veterans. It’s been the honor of a lifetime to stand alongside you in service to those who have worn the uniform and to the families who stand behind them.

From the very beginning, I’ve spoken about the values that shaped me—community, camaraderie and a belief that we are strongest when we come together in service to something greater than ourselves. Over the course of this year, I’ve seen those values brought to life in every corner of this organization. Whether volunteering at food pantries during the holidays, advocating on Capitol Hill or showing up in your local communities to lend a hand to a veteran in need, you’ve demonstrated what it truly means to serve.

We’ve reinforced that DAV is more than a service organization. It’s a movement powered by people willing to give their time, energy and hearts to ensure no veteran is left behind. During DAV Community Impact Day, you proved that even an hour of your time can change a life and that face-to-face connection remains one of the most powerful tools we have.

At the same time, we continued to press forward on the legislative front, fighting for the benefits and recognition our veterans and their families have earned, from strengthened mental health initiatives to critical legislation for survivors. Your voices helped ensure that lawmakers understand the real-world impact of their decisions.

As I mentioned in my first commentary, there’s a passage from the Roman statesman Cicero that I first encountered as a young man that has remained my guiding principle: “Not for ourselves alone are we born.” That idea has defined my life in service, and I see it reflected in each of you. It’s the foundation of who we are as veterans and as DAV members.

As I step aside, I do so with complete confidence in the future of this organization. The strength of DAV has never been found in any one leader but in the collective commitment of its members. You’re the reason we succeed. You’re the reason veterans continue to find support, dignity and hope.

Thank you for allowing me to be part of this journey. It’s been a privilege to serve you.

Now, as always, let’s get back to work. Our mission continues, and our fellow veterans count on us.

If you want to find out more about the National Commander, you can find his biography here.