Elizabethtown’s most recent DAV meeting allowed attendees to become more acquainted with the purpose, mission, and goals of the Disabled American Veterans organization.
The meeting was opened by Elizabethtown DAV Commander David Brown; exclaiming “At ease”, a prayer was said, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Discussion points from the previous meeting in June, which included the presentation of the American flag to veteran William Storms, were briefed before moving forward into the afternoon’s main discussion topics.
Commander Brown introduced guest speaker DAV state adjutant Dr. Jeremy Roberts, who then distributed a slideshow presentation discussing the history and purpose of the DAV. Dr. Roberts explained that the sole mission of the DAV is “…empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity.”
The DAV accomplishes its mission by ensuring that all veterans, as well as the families of veterans have access to “…the full range of benefits available to them”; by representing veteran’ interests to the federal government; and, perhaps most importantly, “…educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life.” Services offered by the DAV, explained Dr. Roberts, include a transit service to take veterans to and from appointments at VA centers, personal assistance filing medical claims, and even several transitional services- all at no-cost.
Dr. Roberts finished his presentation by emphasizing that the DAV is an organization that operates solely on public donations, and receives no government funding.
Continuing the discussion was Department Officer Commander Gregory Keesee. Commander Keesee discussed the importance of being proactive in the community- encouraging the use of membership drives, community events, and other outreach methods to alert fellow veterans to the benefits available at their local DAV.
Before closing, Commander Keesee let the Elizabethtown members know that unity was the key to its success, saying “…we’re family, we’re veterans.”
After the guest speakers had finished, a motion was made to adjourn; the motion seconded, and the meeting closed.
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