Disabled American Veterans – Celebrating Victory for 96 Years

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of DAV. The opinions and text are all mine.
While I am proud to support DAV and their mission, I have not been a beneficiary of DAV services.

We looked upon the clay structures in 104 ° heat, sweat dripping down our faces and checked off a bucket list item before continuing on the journey to our new home. That was just over a year ago. My husband finished his military career and it was time to move on to the next chapter of our lives; a chapter that would mean he’d return to his children and we’d build a life; a really great life. A life that meant our time belonged to us. We’d have to figure out what that meant and just how to handle that.

While he was in the Navy, things weren’t always so easy. I suppose it’s natural to think the military was responsible for some of the hardship. But, while it was in part a factor in the equation of those circumstances, it didn’t encompass the entirety of my husband’s challenges. Uncertainty would creep in, but perseverance made a huge difference. And so did having people in his corner. Veterans can face significant challenges throughout their lives. Sometimes it feels taboo to have the conversation, but thanks to the right help and support, they can also celebrate victories that may have seemed out of reach.

My husband is not the only man I know who lives a victory after military service. My father is a three-tour Vietnam War Veteran who spent almost twenty-nine years of his life dedicated to his country. There are many things he won’t speak of when it comes to Vietnam. Perhaps someday he will, but it’s his story to tell so I standby until he’s ready to tell it. Despite the fact he doesn’t talk about it, I know my dad has been victorious. He came back from a war where so many were ignored and almost disowned by their countrymen. He grew up extremely poor and provided an amazing life to his wife and three children. He isn’t the type to ask for help, but he’s the type to give it. And I know it has been an inspiration to young recruits and recent veterans as they transitioned throughout their careers. It’s been an inspiration to me. It has so much to do with why I live “the gift is in the giving.”

DAV (Disabled American Veterans)

If there is something those of you who have been around awhile know about me, it’s that I am dedicated to giving back to the men and women who have served our nation. I am also dedicated to highlighting organizations that make a difference through their mission and work. They didn’t ask me to tell you this, I just want you to know: with 4 stars (the highest) on Charity Navigator and a 100% endorsement for accountability and transparency, DAV (Disabled American Veterans), is one of those organizations.

For 96 years, DAV’s programs have contributed to millions of stories of strength and victory, such as Jim Sursely, featured in the video below.

Stop by their site and look around. They have some amazing programs and I am in awe of their unwavering dedication. Once you’ve learned more, whether you’re a civilian, active duty or a veteran tell us your story of victory. We can ALL use inspiration, don’t you think?

DAV (Disabled American Veterans) is a non-profit organization that is on a mission to help America’s veterans achieve more victories. To learn more about DAV, visit dav.org.