PHOENIX—California veteran elected to lead the nearly 1 million-member DAV (Disabled American Veterans) today in Phoenix at the organization’s 102nd national convention.

“We need, as DAV has done for more than 100 years, to make extending our services and engaging veterans and family members part of our daily lives,” Contreras told the audience of over 2,000 DAV members and supporters. “I look forward to working with all of you and thank you for your help making our mission accessible to our fellow veterans and their families.”

A member of DAV Chapter 99 in Oxnard, California, Contreras is the adjutant and treasurer of the DAV Department of California and also served as past department commander. He also served on the DAV National Executive Committee and, in 2009, was elected to the board of directors for the DAV National Service Foundation, where he served until 2019.

Contreras said that he views serving as a sacred opportunity, and is one he sees doing as long as he’s able.  “Service, that simple act of helping a veteran, family member or survivor one-on-one, is one of the most rewarding things one can do.”

Contreras enlisted in the Army in 1980 and served as a combat medic and Army nurse for 16 years, achieving the rank of sergeant first class. In 2000, he started at DAV as a benefits advocate before being promoted to national area supervisor in 2006 and taking over as DAV Department of California adjutant and treasurer in 2008.

“Commander Contreras has earned the respect of his fellow veterans at DAV through years of dedicated service as a former service officer and as adjutant of the Department of California,” said DAV National Adjutant and CEO Barry Jesinoski. “His familiarity with both the professional and membership sides of our beloved organization will continue to help us generate meaningful impact that changes the lives of disabled veterans and their families.”