In August 2022, the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our PACT Act was signed into law thanks to the groundbreaking advocacy efforts of DAV. Among its many impactful provisions, the PACT Act will reduce bureaucratic obstacles for an estimated 3.5 million veterans who seek VA benefits due to burn pit exposures during the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and other hostile locations.
While serving in Iraq in 2006, DAV Chief Communications and Outreach Officer Dan Clare saw a Department of Defense memo detailing the dangers of toxic burn pits on those serving at his base. Though the consequences for leaking a sensitive internal government document could be severe, Dan couldn’t stay silent, knowing the continued health ramifications it would have on his fellow service members.
In April 2023, Dan was invited to speak about the origins of the PACT Act at The War Horse Symposium in Chicago, where he outlined his personal service history, the decision to leak the burn pit memo to the press, and DAV’s efforts in obtaining justice for those suffering from military toxic exposures.
Find a DAV location
Contact your nearest DAV office. They will help you file a claim and stick with you all through the process, because no veteran should have to go at it alone.
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.
On Gold Star Mother's Day, we pause to honor the mothers whose lives have been forever changed by the loss of a son or daughter in military service.
No words can ease the weight of that sacrifice, but we can ensure their loved ones are never forgotten. Today, we recognize the extraordinary strength, resilience and love of Gold Star Mothers, while remembering the servicemembers whose courage and selfless sacrifice continue to inspire our nation.
To every Gold Star Mother, thank you. We remember your child, we honor their legacy, and we stand with you today and always. ...
The countdown is on to the 2026 DAV 5K, presented by USAA! Join us in Cincinnati on Nov. 7 or participate virtually from wherever you are during Veterans Day weekend (Nov. 7-11).
Grab your friends. Rally your team. Lace up your shoes. And get ready to walk, roll, run or ride in support of America's veterans. We'll see you at the finish line! 🏁 dav5k.org. ...
DAV Patriot Boot Camp Director Matt Feldhaus attended the Military Influencer Conference (MIC) this past week in Tampa, Florida!
While there, Matt had the chance to connect with leaders and organizations across the military and veteran community, catch up with some of our friends at Regiment, and hear from an incredible lineup of panelists, including Chef Robert Irvine.
MIC provided a great opportunity to build relationships, exchange ideas and learn from others who are making an impact in the military and veteran community. We’re grateful for the connections made and conversations shared! ...
The latest issue of the #DAVMagazine is now available, featuring stories about the people, programs and advocacy efforts making a difference for veterans and their families.
Inside this issue:
• A Purple Heart Vietnam veteran finally receives the benefits he earned • New legislation addressing the Edgewood Arsenal human experiments • How recreation therapy helped a paralyzed veteran restore hope • A message from DAV’s new National Commander • Information on The Dental Care for Veterans Act • The supportive community behind DAV Patriot Boot Camp • Highlights from the 2026 DAV & Auxiliary National Convention • Part 2 of our look at 250 years of the American veteran • The caregivers whose love inspires everything they do
Read the September/October issue of DAV Magazine: dav.la/3qi. ...
In August 2022, the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our PACT Act was signed into law thanks to the groundbreaking advocacy efforts of DAV. Among its many impactful provisions, the PACT Act will reduce bureaucratic obstacles for an estimated 3.5 million veterans who seek VA benefits due to burn pit exposures during the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and other hostile locations.
