I’m proud of DAV’s more than 90 year legacy of service to veterans and their families. Part of that legacy is a strong foundation of volunteers whose selflessness and dedication have helped to empower veterans to live fulfilled lives with respect and dignity.
There are opportunities abound to give back to the veterans in your local community. There is no greater gift than standing up for the men and women who once stood in harm’s way for us.
You can volunteer at a local Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), provide veterans free rides to their medical appointments in a DAV Transportation Network van, offer support to the less fortunate and even serve as a mentor to a veteran going through challenging rehabilitation programs. These are all worthy pursuits that make a difference on an individual level. Many of our VA Voluntary Services (VAVS) volunteers even tell us they think they reap more benefits from the experience than the veteran!
George H. Seal, a World War II veteran remembered for his service as DAV’s Director of Membership and Voluntary Services, was instrumental in developing DAV’s volunteer programs. It’s very fitting his legacy is passed on through the award that bears his name.
Recipients of this award embody the spirit George H. Seal placed on veterans and their families giving back to veterans in their community.
Each year, the George H. Seal Memorial Trophy honors one DAV and DAV Auxiliary Member who show exemplary dedication to their veteran neighbors through the VAVS program. I encourage everyone to get involved in their local VAMC or care facilities as often as possible.
Nothing is more noble than veterans and their families helping to take care of our own, and the George H. Seal award reminds us of this every year when we honor the winner at National Convention.
More information and instructions on how to nominate a VAVS volunteer can be found at https://www.dav.org/help-dav/volunteer/george-h-seal-memorial/.