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Amid the wounded and recovering city of New Orleans, more than 3,000 disabled veterans, family members and guests at the 86th National Convention declared a renewed commitment to the DAV's mission. As the organization's leadership transferred from Bradley S. Barton to Robert T. Reynolds, it was an event filled with unity and determination to protect and serve those who have sacrificed for our country.
Accepting his unanimous election, National Commander Reynolds outlined in an inspiring address a series of goals to build a future of promise for disabled veterans. "A key element in this plan is a sustained effort through the two years of the 110th Congress seeking federal legislation to make sure that disabled veterans get the full rehabilitation and recovery they need to rebuild their lives."
"We want to make our long-time legislative priority of guaranteed, full-funding for veterans health care a reality," he said. "We are also seeking legislation requiring the VA to move forward in the treatment and research of mild and moderate traumatic brain injury, including a comprehensive screening and treatment program."
"I know you are ready and willing to make a difference and answer the call to action to urge your lawmakers to support the kind of legislative and policy initiatives that we believe are right and necessary," Reynolds said. "Nobody does it better than the DAV when it comes to building a future of promise for today's and tomorrow's disabled veterans and their families."
For the first time, the National Convention was broadcast live over the Web site www.dav.org. "It was just like being there," said Sandy Resner of Hanover Park, Ill., who couldn't attend with her husband National Executive Committee member Norman J. Resner. "Everything was there!"
"I was inspired to see the intensity of the National Commander," said John W. King II of Chapter 6 in Hampton, Va. "To see him leading our organization with his intensity and desire will ensure our benefits will be protected. He and his National Officers are the people who know what's right, and they have the right and duty to speak up on our behalf. Rob Reynolds will carry the torch."
"This convention and New Orleans have been wonderful for us," said Tim Hedgecock of Chapter 56 in Lawton, Okla. "This is a city that was devastated and came back. It's fitting that all these disabled veterans, who have come back from crushing disabilities, meet here to help the city recover from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina."
The National Convention's Leadership Seminar on Aug. 10, was hosted by National Legislative Director Joseph A. Violante, who discussed how to successfully present constituent issues to members of Congress and their staff to enable DAV to maintain its leadership as the premier... |
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