The duty to pick up the mantle of leadership and do everything necessary to achieve mission success is a solemn privilege few are called to each year.

The annual DAV Commanders and Adjutants Association orientation is where the tools, education and field-tested wisdom are shared among state-level adjutants and commanders.

This year’s gathering took place in July at DAV National Headquarters in Erlanger, Kentucky. Dozens of state-level leaders from across the nation were there to soak up need-to-know tips, procedures and details to empower them to be more effective leaders.

The two days of enrichment were packed with the latest on DAV’s numerous, always-evolving services. DAV national staff led the sessions, providing multiple opportunities for attendees to ask questions.

“I thought it was a phenomenal turnout. Everyone enjoyed the new headquarters,” said then-Commanders and Adjutants Association President Brian Wilner. “We preached everybody networking, and just watching everyone networking during the day and night was amazing.”

The midsummer event is timed to receive newly elected commanders and newly appointed leaders in other positions when they are still new to the job.

The orientation consistently touched on the pillars of the organization and its history, integrity and professionalism and on DAV’s commitment to veterans and their families, Wilner said. In addition to discussing the organization’s overarching mission, participants were able to exchange information on best practices and get answers to questions about the responsibilities of state leaders.

“DAV staff was really listening to department representatives, too, making sure they got what they needed to succeed,” Wilner said.

“I appreciated the opportunity to have so many of us together, to have that ability to network and to have availability to that information,” said Stephen Santos, commander of the Department of Maine.

The best part was having access to staff and other elected leaders, he said.

“Seeing everyone in cubicles and putting names to faces was huge,” Santos said. “Seeing so many show up, that was such a win.”