New Bedford DAV Chapter Has Served Veterans for More Than 100 Years

There are many veterans organizations here on the SouthCoast, but perhaps none have been around longer than the Dr. C.E Burt Chapter 7 Disabled American Veterans here in New Bedford. Its headquarters are located at 19 Willis Street, across from the Veterans Transition House.

A Century of Service in New Bedford

The first DAV chapter in the U.S. was established just after World War I. Chapter 7 in New Bedford soon followed in 1923, established by Dr. C. E. Burt. For more than 100 years, DAV Chapter 7 and its all-volunteer staff has provided important services to veterans and their families.

Commander William Kligel and Adjutant Aaron Gabriel stopped by Townsquare Sunday to discuss the services provided by the DAV, and to get the word out about an upcoming comedy fundraiser on July 18.

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Creating Camaraderie for Veterans

Gabriel said DAV Chapter 7 provides a sense of camaraderie, and for him, that was important after leaving the service. "It made me feel like I was a part of something, and helping people who need help," he said.

Free Services Offered by DAV Chapter 7

According to Gabriel, an average of 32 veterans per week visit the Chapter 7 headquarters. The DAV is assisting veterans with filing claims for disability compensation, education benefits, scholarships for children of veterans, and more. It also lines up transportation services for veterans to attend medical appointments, visits to home-bound veterans, and offers food assistance. All of the DAV services are free.

"When veterans come in, the first thing we do is hand them a challenge coin and say, 'Welcome back,'" Commander Kligel said. "Veterans are part of the family. Even if I don't know you, they're part of our family."

While DAV services are free, Chapter 7 still has to raise some money to cover its expenses. Here's how you can help.

Comedy Fundraiser Supports Local Veterans

The DAV in New Bedford is joining with two other veterans organizations – American Legion Post #265 in Acushnet and the Thomas E. Tuttle VFW Post #7239 in Acushnet – to sponsor a Comedy Fundraiser on July 18 at the Knights of Columbus Hall at 57 Fairhaven Road in Mattapoisett. Tickets are $60 and can be purchased via Funny4Funds or directly from the organizations involved.

Visiting DAV Chapter 7 in New Bedford

DAV Chapter 7 welcomes visitors on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Stop by and say hello.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.