WASHINGTON, DC – May 25, 2017 – The Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF) (www.dvnf.org), is calling on all Americans to remember the men and women who died fighting for our nation this Memorial Day. The organization wants everyone to remember why this holiday is important.
Monday, May 29th, will mark the 2017 Memorial Day holiday. The holiday, originally named “Decoration Day,” began after the Civil War to remember both the Union and Confederate forces that died in combat. The holiday has continued through the years, though Memorial Day was never officially enacted as a federal holiday until 1971.
Joseph VanFonda (USMC SgtMaj Ret.), CEO of DVNF, recently issued a statement about this year’s Memorial Day holiday:
“With the excitement of the coming summer months, many never pause to recognize the true importance of this day. It’s not surprising that people tend to forget the purpose of Memorial Day, but it is crucial that we never lose sight of why this day is so important.
“Since the beginning of the 20th Century, the United States has become a superpower of not only military might, but also a beacon of freedom. Sadly, yet heroically, so very many men and women have died while safeguarding the principles of the greater good that the United States represents. While their lives may have been lost, countless other lives have been saved as a result. That is something we cannot, and should not ever forget.”
In the weeks surrounding Memorial Day, DVNF has been involved in many events recognizing veterans. On Tuesday May 23rd, the organization attended the Aurora, IL Veterans Week, and handed out necessities for veterans in need through a shipment sent by DVNF’s Health & Comfort program. In addition, DVNF will participate in the USO Warrior Week beginning on Memorial Day. The week after Memorial Day, DVNF will be a presenting sponsor of the Veterans Golf Classic in South Carolina.
As the organization works to ensure veterans get the care and support they need, it is encouraging all Americans to take pause on Memorial Day, and remember the fallen heroes who gave their lives to protect our freedom.
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About DVNF:
The Disabled Veterans National Foundation exists to provide critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded—physically or psychologically—after defending our safety and our freedom.
We achieve this mission by:
- Providing an online resource database that allows veterans to navigate the complex process of seeking benefits that they are entitled to as a result of their military service, as well as additional resources they need.
- Offering direct financial support to veteran organizations that address the unique needs of veterans, and whose missions align with that of DVNF.
- Providing supplemental assistance to homeless and low-income veterans through the Health & Comfort program and various empowerment resources.
Serving as a thought leader on critical policy issues within the veteran community, and educating the public accordingly.