ERLANGER, Ky. – DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Auxiliary has named Hattie Lambert of Dewitt, Virginia, as the 2025 DAV Auxiliary Volunteer of the Year. Lambert will be formally recognized Aug. 9 during the 2025 DAV and Auxiliary National Convention in Las Vegas.

Auxiliary members who donate significant time through either the Local Volunteer Assistance Program (LVAP) or the Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) program are eligible for the award.

Lambert volunteers 40 hours a week year-round at the Richmond VA Medical Center, logging nearly 18,000 volunteer hours to date.

“Hattie sets the example for the entire state of Virginia,” said Thessalonia Higgins, the VAVS program manager for the medical center. “She is the right-hand person to [our] staff. She is also a positive influence on every patient, making sure they have what they need.”

Higgins said that Lambert is often seen pushing wheelchairs, answering questions and assisting staff with anything they need. She also plans and organizes events at the facility, often recruiting other volunteers to participate.

“Hattie truly embodies the spirit of volunteerism,” said Auxiliary National Commander Christopher Easley. “Her commitment to veterans shines through everything she does, and by encouraging others to give of their time, she is spreading the joy and satisfaction that can come from volunteering.”

Lambert is a member of DAV Auxiliary Unit 47 in Petersburg, Virginia.

She will receive the George H. Seal Memorial Trophy in honor of the World War II combat-injured paratrooper who made significant contributions during his career as DAV’s national VAVS representative and as a member of the VAVS National Advisory Committee.