Member News

Oklahoma veterans commemorate Memorial Day

DAV Chapter 3 in Checotah, Oklahoma, hosted a Memorial Day ceremony to commemorate the men and women who lost their lives to give others their freedom. The program, “Remember the Fallen,” was held at Veterans’ Circle at Greenlawn Cemetery in Checotah. Chapter 3 Commander Pete Laughlin welcomed the community, the chapter’s chaplain David Fultz gave an invocation and the chapter adjutant Brian Moore spoke. Moore said Memorial Day is one of the most expensive holidays on the calendar: “Every hotdog, every hamburger and every boat ride around the lake, every activity with friends and family that we enjoy on our terms was a debt purchased and paid for by others. These brave men and women paid in flesh and blood with their lives… This isn’t simply another day off. This is a day to remember what others paid for every free breath that you and I get to take. It’s the true price of our freedom.”

Ohio veteran added to Medal of Honor display

The Trumbull County Veterans Service Commission in Warren, Ohio, unveiled a new addition to its Medal of Honor Wall that pays tribute to local recipients of the nation’s highest military honor. The dedication ceremony brought the community together with veterans and local officials to honor the bravery of six Trumbull County servicemen, including Vietnam War veteran Kenneth J. David. David, who served as a radio-telephone operator with the 101st Airborne Division, was recognized for his actions on May 7, 1970, near Fire Support Base Maureen in Vietnam. He deliberately drew enemy fire to himself to save his unit, an act of valor that initially earned him the Distinguished Service Cross before it was upgraded to the Medal of Honor in 2025.

Local celebrity visits North Carolina DAV chapter

During a Camp Corral fundraiser at DAV Chapter 37 in Greenville, North Carolina, members were visited by author, speaker and former major league baseball player Darryl Strawberry. The members later gathered together to spread the word on social media.

DAV’s vital role in connecting with Coachella Valley veterans

DAV Chapter 78 in Palm Desert, California, has been a cornerstone of the annual Veterans Expo for approximately 13 years, a tradition that began with past chapter commander Sy Kaplan’s collaboration on the inaugural event with the Salvation Army of Cathedral City. Starting in a small Indio armory, the expo grew, eventually moving to the Riverside County Fairgrounds Auditorium and attracting around 70 exhibitors and marching bands. Following Kaplan’s passing, Ron Heath took the helm as commander in 2018, continuing the chapter’s deep involvement. This participation has proven vital for connecting with various organizations, enabling DAV to effectively assist veterans and their families with disability claims and raise awareness of their services. The most recent veterans expo, held in April 2025 drew around 45 vendors, including representatives from the local Department of Veterans Affairs medical center, department of motor vehicles, and various veterans service organizations. Notably, Heath was honored as a Veteran VIP for the Coachella Valley, receiving accolades from numerous elected officials. The chapter’s involvement with the veterans expo committee has also expanded its reach into neighboring communities like Beaumont and Banning, by holding two additional expos annually. This increased visibility has led to growth in Chapter 78’s membership as more veterans seek their support.

DAV Chapter 12 honored as California Nonprofit of the Year

In a significant recognition of their service, DAV Chapter 12 in San Bernardino, California, has been named a Nonprofit of the Year for the 29th Senate District. Notably, the chapter is the only veteran organization to receive this honor in the state this year. Commander Jose Mendoza proudly accepted the award. This prestigious recognition comes through the California Nonprofits of the Year initiative, where each state legislator selects an impactful nonprofit from their district. The California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits), a leading advocate for the sector through advocacy, education and research, sponsors this initiative in collaboration with state Senate and Assembly committees.

North Dakotan veteran featured in local news

After serving in Vietnam, Doug Benjamin continued to serve in the Army until 1973, and while not in the service anymore, he has continued to advocate for veterans’ rights and benefits as the current state commander of DAV in North Dakota. Benjamin says every day he meets with a group of veterans, and it’s important to all of them that they get together. “For me, being around veterans, they’re the people I trust, they’ve had the same experience that I have, and so I can relate to them. It’s hard to explain, it’s just a feeling you get when you’re together,” Benjamin said.

Tennessee veterans host Memorial Day ceremony

Members from DAV Chapter 90 in Manchester, Tennessee, helped host the Manchester Memorial Day Ceremony. The Coffee County Veterans Association (CCVA) supports its local veterans, family and friends by providing an online forum and a local facility to discuss veteran issues, organizational events or enjoy comradery. The CCVA is organized by three local veteran organizations: Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10904, American Legion Gold Star Post 78, and DAV Chapter 90.

North Carolina veterans participate in Memorial Day ceremony

The Alexander County Memorial Day Ceremony took place at the Veterans Building in Taylorsville, North Carolina. DAV Chapter 84 in Taylorsville, NC Commander Bill Johnson led The Pledge of Allegiance and reading of veterans’ names who died since last Memorial Day. U.S. Navy veteran Dale Chapman rang a bell for each name.

Pennsylvania veteran drives DAV vehicle in Memorial Day parade

The King David Post 1132 Kane VFW held its annual Memorial Day parade and solemn ceremony in Kane, Pennsylvania, paying tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The procession culminated at the memorial point within Evergreen Park. The parade featured a DAV Transportation Network vehicle driven by veteran Tom Balliet, a reminder of the DAV’s crucial mission and steadfast commitment to our nation’s veterans.

California veterans celebrate Memorial Day

The town of Apple Valley, California, held a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 26, at Civic Center Park. During the event, DAV Chapter 9 in Yuba City, California, community leaders and veterans shared words of reflection as they expressed gratitude and remembrance to the fallen. Town officials also placed nearly 300 small American flags along the amphitheater’s hill. Attendees were invited to add a personal touch by writing a message on a ribbon and attaching it to a flag in honor of a loved one.

Massachusetts veterans host Memorial Day luncheon

In recognition of Memorial Day, members of DAV Chapter 113 in Burlington, Massachusetts, provided catered meals to 40 residents and staff of Bedford Green, a veterans’ housing facility. Pictured are (left to right) Jacquie Cope, senior resident services manager for Peabody Properties; Burlington DAV 113 Members Ray Adams, George Hinds, Al Delucia, Vincent Therrien (also a Bedford Green resident), John Turna, Chapter Adjutant Larry Sullivan and Chapter Commander Dave Leggeri. Also attending was DAV member and the first-ever deputy secretary of the state’s Executive Office of Veteran’s Affairs, Dr. Andrea Gayle-Bennett.

Arizona veterans host Memorial Day BBQ

DAV Chapter 11 in Yuma, Arizona, hosted its Memorial Day BBQ on Monday.  Local veterans and their families were given a complimentary lunch. Chapter Commander Herminio Rodriguez says Memorial Day is not so much a celebration, but rather a somber time to reflect on the sacrifices our fallen soldiers have made.  “We have a lot of members here that lost loved ones or know somebody that isn’t completely well, mental health or body. We can never forget what our men and women did during their service in the military,” Rodriguez said.

Texas veterans and family members honor fallen in Memorial Day ceremony

Neighbors gathered at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, in Corpus Christi, Texas, Monday morning to honor and remember soldiers who have fallen in the line of duty. The cemetery serves as the final resting place for 600 servicemen and women each year.  The ceremony included a roll call for those killed in action and those missing in action who are memorialized at the cemetery. “It’s very important to never forget our veterans who have passed,” said Velma Cano from DAV Auxiliary Unit 42, Corpus Christi.

Texas veteran honored with Quilt of Valor

During a recent meeting, members of DAV Chapter 47 in Big Spring, Texas, presented a Quilt of Valor to recognize local veteran Roe Fulgham for his service. Fulgham served in the Air Force and was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. The Quilts of Valor organization is the result of a dream brought to fruition. Since the founding of the organization, more than 150,000 quilts have been awarded in the United States, Germany, Iraq and Afghanistan. With each quilt the mission to honor service members and veterans is fulfilled: one human being reaching out and touching another without judgment, reaching out with acceptance and with acknowledgement of service to our nation in very trying circumstances.

VetFest 2025 Supports and Celebrates Mississippi Veterans

Organized by DAV Chapter 62 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Vetfest 2025 brought services and recreation together for area veterans and their families. “This is your time for the veterans to get to know other veterans that are around here,” said Troy Batiste, Chapter 62’s commander.  Festival attendees got free wellness checks and enjoyed live music and different types of food.  “I’m taking this idea that they’ve used with VetFest all over the state of Mississippi and, hopefully, we can start it in the Gulf area. We can start in Gulfport and Biloxi and then work our way up north,” said Rodger Hormell, commander for the DAV Department of Mississippi.

Kentucky WWII veterans honored

Jane Casher, commander of DAV Auxiliary Unit 03 in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, presented personalized snow globes to three local World War II veterans to thank them for their service. “We just want to give them a token of our appreciation to say thank you for being a part of our organization and we appreciate them,” Casher said.  Recipients were Wayne Hayes, 104, who served in the Army Air Corps as a radar operator on a B-29 bomber; Charles Owen, 101, who served in the U.S. Navy on the USS New Jersey; and William Schaffleck, 99, who served in the U.S. Army at the Battle of the Bulge. All three veterans were inducted into the Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame in 2025.

Wayne County Honors Fallen Servicemembers with Annual “Flags In” Event

In North Carolina, Wayne County Veterans and Patriots Coalition members and volunteers gathered for its annual “Flags In” event, beginning the day with a light breakfast provided by local businesses. Volunteers from nearby DAV chapters and numerous local groups joined forces to place more than 4,000 American flags on the gravesites of fallen servicemembers. On Memorial Day, a moment of silence ceremony took place at the Wayne County Veterans Memorial in downtown Goldsboro. A wreath was laid by Gold Star parents Dave and Beth Friedrich, whose son, Army Sgt. David Friedrich, was killed in action in Iraq on Sept. 20, 2003.  The ceremony drew the attendance of several local leaders, including Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipient Army veteran Col. Walter J. Marm.

North Carolina veteran supports to local youth

“Wild Bill” Corriher is well known not just in China Grove, North Carolina, but in Rowan County for his dedication to veteran’s programs across the board. He served in the Army from 1955-57, and is a lifelong member of DAV. Corriher has focused for years on helping the youth in his community. Since 1991, he has been raising money for scholarships for those in the Junior Reserve Officers Training Program (JROTC) program at South Rowan High School. He said he knows he grew up with perhaps a different set of values, but his hope is to instill some of those in the teenagers of today. In addition to the scholarships, he has built a rappelling tower at the high school, and has raised money for the construction of a bathroom on the school’s training grounds.

California DAV member recognized as 2025 Unsung Hero

In February, DAV Past National Commander Delphine Metcalf-Foster was honored as an Unsung Hero for 2025 by California State Assembly member Lori Wilson. She was recognized for breaking barriers as the first woman national commander of DAV, her ongoing advocacy, mentorship and servant-leadership on behalf of her fellow veterans. Foster is a member of DAV Chapter 21 in Vallejo, California.

California chapter partners with dispensary

To raise awareness in the local community, Jose Mendoza of DAV Chapter 12, San Bernardino, California, recently partnered with Haven, a dispensary in the area to support veterans. Haven donated 60 goodie bags to honor those who served.

Texas chapter hosts women veterans event

Together with the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic, members from DAV Chapter 5 in San Antonio hosted the Women Veteran Personal Wellness Social. Attendees enjoyed a paint project, wellness activities and camaraderie with their sister vets.

Mississippi chapter rallies around local veteran after deadly tornado

When an Army veteran from the Hattiesburg, Mississippi, area lost her only child and her home to a tornado, the local veteran community stepped up to support her. Members of DAV Chapter 62 in Hattiesburg quickly organized to create a support network.

Minnesota chapter fundraises for accessible dock and kayak launch

The Detroit Lakes City Council approved the purchase of a floating dock and kayak launch for people with disabilities. Supported by DAV Chapter 31 in Lakeland, Minnesota, which raised the money for the equipment through private donations from individuals, businesses and organizations, as well as various fundraising events, the dock will be placed on Detroit Lakes City Beach. In an interview, Chapter Commander Jason Bristlin said the location was recommended because of nearby handicap parking spots. The goal is to have the dock and launch installed before the Fourth of July.

Wisconsin chapter connects with local veteran organizations for increased benefit

“I like to say that we are veterans helping veterans, whether that be veterans themselves, or a fallen veteran—if his spouse or children need help, that’s what we’re there for,” said Skip Dulin, commander of DAV Chapter 62 in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. Seven local leaders that support fellow veterans and the Northwoods community are helping spread the word of their organizations in hopes to welcome the younger generations of honorably discharged veterans. Many of these organizations gather during their monthly meetings, showing their dedication to fellow veterans is a unified effort.

Arizona benefits advocate recognized for supporting Native American veterans

Home Base’s Chief Operating Officer Michael Allard, Director of Development Dan Arkins and Regional Associate Director of Home Base Arizona Marcus Dentdale presented DAV member Aunjel Smith of Arizona with a certificate of appreciation. Aunjel’s support of their inaugural Mobile Native Intensive Clinical Program made a huge impact on the Native American veterans who participated, and she has remained in touch with them after the conclusion of the program.

A hero’s send-off: Minot launches first Honor Flight for local veterans

The spirit of patriotism soared in Minot, North Dakota, as DAV Chapter 4 hosted an inspiring send-off for the city’s first Honor Flight. One hundred eighteen veterans from the Vietnam, Korean and World War II eras embarked on a moving two-day trip to Washington, D.C., to experience their national memorials. The journey culminated in a powerful homecoming at Minot International Airport, where an estimated 400 to 500 people, according to Chapter 4 Commander Frank Senn, gathered to offer a hero’s welcome. Pictured is the sendoff party for Chapter 4’s local veterans a few days before the flight.

Quilt of Valor awarded to North Dakota veteran

In November, Vietnam War veteran Doug Kalmbach, who is a member of DAV Chapter 4 in Minot, North Dakota, was presented a Quilt of Valor by the Peace and Honor Quilts of Valor organization. Luanne Duchsherer presented the quilt to Kalmbach at the Dakota Territory Air Museum hangar in Minot.

Veteran recognized for community service

Last fall, local media recognized Army veteran Doug Benjamin for his dedication to the veteran community in North Dakota. From 2019–2022, Benjamin served three terms as commander of DAV Chapter 4 in Minot. Since then, he has become involved at the state level and is currently the DAV Department of North Dakota commander. Benjamin’s interests in making sure veterans get help for their disabilities and settling their disability claims led him to join DAV.

Oregon veterans replace memorial flag and plaque

After someone vandalized the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at the Deschutes Memorial Chapel and Gardens in Bend, Oregon, a group of veterans replaced the toppled flagpole, installed a new plaque and rededicated site. “We’ve lost a lot of friends,” said Robert Landers, commander of DAV Chapter 14 in Bend. “Many of their names are right here on this plaque.” Now, the memorial is a special, safe place for veterans to pay their respects. The back of the plaque lists everyone who contributed to the project. The community came together to rededicate it and to celebrate the restoration during a Veterans Day ceremony.

Florida veteran interviewed on local news about his military and DAV journey

In January, Vietnam veteran and Past National Commander Dennis Joyner appeared on “Operation Outreach,” a program produced by the Orange County Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Council in Florida. Joyner discussed his experiences as a new father and a Vietnam veteran. While on patrol in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, Joyner became a triple amputee as a result of a land mine explosion. His recovery was quick, and he was discharged from the Army. But his story was far from over. He dedicated his life to helping others with DAV, which was the first organization that came to visit him in the hospital.

‘Six Triple Eight’ legend: DAV Chapter 100 pays tribute to Millie Dunn Veasey

North Carolina’s newest DAV chapter, Chapter 100 in Chapel Hill, recently honored its namesake, Millie Dunn Veasey, with a joyous birthday celebration. Veasey, a member of the legendary 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion—popularly known as the “Six Triple Eight”—the only all-Black Women’s Army Corps unit deployed overseas during World War II. Her work ensured mail reached troops across Europe, boosting morale and maintaining connections between soldiers and loved ones. Following military service, Veasey became a leader in the Civil Rights Movement, serving as president of the Raleigh-Wake Chapter of the NAACP from 1965 to 1968. Her legacy was further cemented last year when a Raleigh post office was renamed in her honor, recognizing her lasting contributions to her community and the nation.

DAV department remembers the Maine

“Remember the Maine!” echoed 127 years after the sinking of the USS Maine. On Feb. 15, 2025, the DAV Department of Maine honored the 266 lives lost in the 1898 event. The cause remains debated, but it led to war with Spain. Department Commander Craig Florey and George Mathis commemorated the anniversary with a wreath-laying, also marking the department’s 50th charter anniversary and Florey’s birthday.

Kentucky veteran spreads PTSD awareness

Bob Casher, commander of DAV Chapter 3 in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, is spreading the word about hope for those with post-traumatic stress disorder. He and his wife, Jane, have been traveling around the state screening “HERE. IS. BETTER,” a documentary that follows four veterans in treatment for PTSD. It shows how PTSD affects not only the individual but also their family and friends. Casher brings resources supplied by the Department of Veterans Affairs to each screening, helping to shed light on the treatments available as well as providing information for family members. “Viewings have attendance ranging from over 100 to as little as 12,” Casher said. “To me, it does not matter how many attend. What does matter is getting the word out and getting individuals to know there is help and to not be ashamed to ask.” He holds the screenings, he said, because the benefits of saving one life, one family or one friendship are worth the time and effort.

Veteran crew shares canoe in Ohio River Paddlefest

Every August, Tom Conlan gathers a crew of veterans for the annual Ohio River Paddlefest. Conlan, a Marine veteran and member of DAV Chapter 1 in Cincinnati, recruits veteran paddlers to make the nearly 10-mile trek down the Ohio River in the DAV Voyager canoe. Ohio River Paddlefest is recognized as the nation’s largest paddling celebration, with some 2,000 participants traveling downriver through downtown Cincinnati in canoes, kayaks and other human-powered craft. Paddlefest is organized by Adventure Crew, a nonprofit organization that connects city teens to nature and each other through engaging outdoor adventures.

Memorial wall at DAV chapter honors Arizona veterans

The Honor Roll of Veterans memorial wall, located at DAV Chapter 8 in Mesa, Arizona, recognizes local veterans, past and present. The wall, started in 2017 and now covered in 133 bricks, is the brainchild of George Colbert, the chapter’s senior vice commander who leads its fundraising activities. Colbert enlisted in the Marines on Aug. 24, 1967, served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged as a lance corporal on March 17, 1969. He joined DAV in 2013 and has been a chapter service officer since 2015.

Feeding veterans and their families in California

Members of DAV Chapter 92 in Victorville, California, run the food pantry at the High Desert Vet Center and play a vital role in supporting veterans and their families. Every Friday, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., the chapter connects veterans with essential food supplies, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals. The food pantry not only provides sustenance but also fosters a sense of community and support for area veterans facing financial hardships or other challenges post-service. DAV members are committed to serving veterans one family at a time, reinforcing the message that their service is valued and remembered.

Massachusetts veteran interviews cataloged in Library of Congress

Last November, Army infantry veteran Marcus Howard interviewed two DAV members from Chapter 7 in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Army veteran Lawrence Badger and Navy veteran Virginia Senna-Davis both live and work in New Bedford, serving its veteran community. These interviews will be documented and cataloged in the Library of Congress. “Veterans are a strong, resilient community that suffer both visible and invisible wounds and need support and purpose like everyone else,” Howard said. “We stick together through the love of our country, our commitment to serve and the mutual respect of our sacrifice.”