Safety is top priority as veterans get back to work

In order for as many DAV chapters as possible to safely reopen and serve as many veterans and their families as we can, we all must remain steadfastly dedicated to safety.

DAV chapters are permitted to reopen as long as they can meet all state and local Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. Of course, it’s also important that chapter leaders and members feel comfortable doing so. To learn the most up-to-date CDC guidelines in your area call 1-800-232-4636 or visit cdc.gov/info.

DAV encourages members to continue to take precautions against the virus, such as masking, social distancing, handwashing and use of hand sanitizer.

The longer an exhausting and difficult set of circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic lingers on, the easier it becomes for individuals to let their guard down. More often than not, it’s mental fatigue that can create lapses in judgment and cause mistakes. It’s our belief that veterans are uniquely qualified to see this mission through and understand its importance. We have known hardship and persevered while in service. We know you will not take these measures lightly.

With highly anticipated COVID-19 vaccinations continuing to be administered throughout the country, now is not the time to let up, but rather to double down to ensure everyone’s well-being.

After all, due to their service-connected injuries and illnesses, many of the veterans who fill our ranks are more vulnerable to this virus than our civilian counterparts. As leaders, we must thoughtfully balance the needs of those we assist with the safety of our staff and volunteers, as well as all others living in our communities.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to me via email at [email protected] or by phone at (859) 442-2060.

It is impossible to forecast every conceivable consequence of this global pandemic, so please stay tuned to dav.org/covid/ and our social networks for more information as it becomes available.