ERLANGER, Ky. – DAV (Disabled American Veterans) has named Army veteran Ken David of Warren, Ohio, as its 2025 Disabled American Veteran of the Year. He will receive the award Aug. 9 at the 2025 DAV and Auxiliary National Convention in Las Vegas.

David was drafted and entered the Army in August 1969. He received basic training at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, then advanced training at Fort Polk, Louisiana.

He was sent to the Republic of South Vietnam in January the following year. On May 7, 1970, David earned the Medal of Honor for his actions during a battle at an abandoned fire support base. While David was serving as a radio-telephone operator with Company D, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, his element came under fierce attack from a larger force seeking to overrun the base.

The assault mortally wounded his platoon leader in the opening minutes of the battle, which led to David unleashing a barrage of automatic weapon fire on the enemy. He then moved to a position outside the perimeter while continuing to fight. With wounded soldiers receiving medical care, David continually exposed himself to the enemy in an effort to draw away fire. He then remained deliberately exposed and in harm’s way to protect medevac helicopters, ensuring the wounded could be rescued.

After returning to Ohio, David found himself scarred by the lasting effects of war. But he found purpose after joining DAV. Today, David remains a fierce veterans advocate, always willing to help those in need. He’s an active DAV chapter leader and a shining example of continued service long after completing his time in uniform.

David’s work in running chapter meetings and donating out of his own pocket when a down-and-out veteran stops by his chapter is just the latest examples of a lifetime of service, despite having deep physical and mental wounds.

“Ken showed a remarkable and unhesitating willingness to sacrifice his life for his fellow veterans. But his service didn’t end when his time in uniform was over,” said DAV National Commander Daniel Contreras. “He’s a leader in his community who constantly goes above and beyond to make sure his fellow veterans are not left behind.”