Like many Americans, the protests and civil unrest across the country this past week have given us pause to reflect upon our great nation’s promises and ideals, as well as its injustices and shortcomings. As veterans, we have sworn to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and hold sacred the rights of all Americans whom we fought to defend during our military service. Many of our brothers and sisters-in-arms sacrificed their lives or became seriously disabled protecting the very freedoms our fellow citizens are exercising on the streets of America today, to include their rights to speak freely, peaceably assemble and petition the government as a means to redress grievances. DAV does not condone acts that exceed those rights and specifically condemns actions inciting violence, inflicting physical harm and causing damage to private and public property, such as the national World War II Memorial. We also encourage dialogue and actions that can drive the kind of meaningful, positive and lasting change that so many veterans from all backgrounds fought side-by-side to defend for past, present and future generations of Americans. In doing so, we can all help ensure the United States remains one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
DAV statement on nationwide protests and civil unrest
DAV is an organization of veterans helping veterans.
The reasons are as individual as our members. Some join for the fellowship at our more than 1,200 local chapters. Some for the inspiring national events. Others for opportunities to serve their fellow veterans and their families. And many join to continue the fight to support the rights and benefits of all veterans. DAV understands the needs of veterans because we are veterans—1 million strong. We invite you to join our cause.
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After returning home from service, Navy veteran Jennifer Badger began using drugs to cope with the sexual harassment and assault that she experienced in service. It wasn’t until she was connected with a residential rehab program through the VA that she was able to receive the care she needed to address her past traumas. Residential rehabilitation for PTSD and substance use disorder is a hallmark of VA mental health care. However, the VA reports that only about 13 residential rehabilitation centers provide gender-exclusive care and services, and fewer than half of all residential domiciliary facilities have separate dorm space for women veterans—accommodations that are essential to ensure the safety and comfort of women.In February 2024, DAV published “Women Veterans: The Journey to Mental Wellness.” This report is a comprehensive assessment of the unique factors contributing to the staggering rates of suicide among women veterans and how the system charged with their mental health care can and must do better. Read Jennifer’s full story and learn more about the report and DAV’s findings at womenveterans.org.
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Did you know that when you make a gift to DAV with stock, you save on capital gain taxes and get a full charitable income tax deduction for the value of your stock? Get the details here: dav.la/3q6. #DAVPlanMyGift #IHelpVeterans
Calling all Florida veterans and military spouses! Are you unemployed or underemployed? Why not get connected with dozens of employers who are seeking veterans like you to fill their open positions? On Thursday, March 28, at 11 a.m. (Eastern), DAV and RecruitMilitary will host an in-person job fair for veterans, military spouses, transitioning service members, and members of the National Guard or Reserves in the Jacksonville region. Register now: dav.la/3ok.