Sue Davis celebrates after completing the 2025 DAV 5K, proudly displaying her finisher’s medal. Davis, who was the top group fundraiser for the 2024 event, continues to champion DAV’s mission through her dedication and enthusiasm.

When Sue Davis decided to take part in the DAV 5K five years ago, it was simply a chance to do something she loved—running. But when she learned how much money the event raised for veterans, she realized she could do something much more meaningful. What began as a personal challenge became a mission—to honor veterans and raise as much money as possible for DAV’s life-changing programs and services.

An avid runner, Davis had discovered the DAV 5K when a friend invited her to join. At the time, she didn’t know much about DAV or the services it provides. As the daughter of an Air Force veteran, she quickly recognized the organization’s impact.

“These men and women who serve our country don’t always get the support they need after their service, and DAV is about making sure they are taken care of,” she said.

Last year, Davis teamed up with two friends to maximize fundraising efforts. They ran weekly social media contests and printed flyers with a DAV QR code for local coffee shops and office bulletin boards. Their community rallied behind them, and by race day, they had raised more than $3,000 and spread awareness about DAV’s mission.

“There is always more that can be done to support our nation’s veterans,” Davis said. “They made the commitment to serve our country, and it’s important that we keep our promise to support them to the best of our abilities.”

Colleagues from the insurance company Americas at AXA XL meet in Chicago to take part in the DAV Virtual 5K, joining teammates participating from locations across the nation. Their combined support highlights AXA XL’s ongoing commitment to honoring America’s veterans through the annual walk, roll, run and ride event.

Around 2,500 people participated in the in-person Cincinnati event, but the 5K’s reach stretched far beyond, including nearly 1,700 people who participated virtually. For Army veteran Kevin La Salle, head of inclusion and diversity, Americas at AXA XL insurance company, the virtual DAV 5K became a powerful way to rally colleagues across offices and home workspaces.

“I wanted to give back and keep our team connected,” La Salle said. “We removed obstacles by covering registration fees and encouraged people to share their pages with family and co-workers. Because it was virtual, anyone could walk, roll, run and ride wherever they were and still be part of something bigger.”

With more than 270 employees participating across the country and a fundraising total of $7,125, the event became more than just a race—it became a way to build community and unite around a common mission.

“This was something fun that everyone could enjoy,” La Salle said. “We were running and cheering each other on, but what made it special was knowing we were doing it for a good cause—and giving back to those who served.”

Susan Ward speaks during the DAV 5K, sharing her experiences as a Marine veteran and the impact DAV has had on her journey after service. Ward served as this year’s veteran speaker, helping inspire participants at the event.

Marine veteran Susan Ward, this year’s speaker at the Cincinnati opening ceremony, offered a different but equally inspiring perspective. A former supply officer who served from 1989 to 1993, Ward started supporting DAV while still on active duty, when she needed to choose a veterans service organization to support financially. After leaving the service, she struggled to find a place where she felt truly valued as a woman veteran.

Years later, after retiring from her civilian career, Ward decided to become more involved with DAV and became a life member. She was still hesitant to attend a chapter meeting because of how she had been treated in the past by others outside of DAV. Repeated invitations from John Plahovinsak, adjutant of Chapter 63 in Cincinnati, convinced her to attend—and she was overwhelmed by the love and support she received.

“They were so welcoming. It chokes me up how much they’ve embraced me,” she said. “Everyone’s treated equally, and I feel truly valued.”

Her renewed involvement led her to participate in events like the DAV 5K, presented by USAA. Speaking at this year’s race gave her a chance to share her story—and highlight how these events strengthen bonds among veterans.

“The 5K reminds us how big our community is and how much support is out there,” Ward said. “It shows us we’re not alone and that what we’ve done still matters. Raising awareness for DAV helps ensure more veterans get the help they need.”