The Great Unsung

Sidney Siller, Department Adjutant

Throughout our history, the DAV has amassed an unmatched record of SERVICE and ADVOCACY ON BEHALF of our nation's former SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN who HAVE JOINED TOGETHER to SEEK JUSTICE for all disabled veterans.

The DAV and the Luis Pope Foundation approximately six years ago established the Disabled Veterans' Life Memorial Foundation to erect a statue in Washington, D.C. to honor disabled veterans, and obtained the necessary legislation from Congress, and signed by the President, into law.

On November 10, 2002 the leaders of the DAV Department of New York traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the 6th Annual formal dinner of the Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial Dinner honoring Thomas E. Bratton, Jr. as 2002's Life's Presidential UNSUNG Hero Award.

The DAV Department of New York was the largest contingent at this black tie soiree. Our delegation was composed of our Department Commander, and officers from across New York State. Also sharing our joy that night were DAVA Commander Linda Trujillio; and National DAVA Adjutant Maria Tedrow.

The principal speakers honoring Mr. Bratton, were chairman of the joint Chief's of Staff General Richard Meyers, and Secretary of the VA Anthony Principi.

Very much in attendance was our late friend Jesse Browns' widow Sylvia Brown. The concept that we in our lifetime will see the erection of a memorial to those who were injured and die as a result of wartime disabilities since the time of the American Revolutionary War is mind boggling.

Mr. Bratton is Maryland's first secretary of Veterans Affairs. He is a retired U.S. Army Captain, and is 100% combat disabled. He earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star with V, Air Medal, Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Device, Army Commendation with V Device, Good Conduct ,and National Defense medal, Tom was the nation's Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the year for 2002 by the DAV. We look forward to increasing the size of our delegation to next year's gala event, so be ready to float a loan, rent a tuxedo, and buy new "duds" for your best gal.

The DAV Department of New York will shortly be starting a fund so that we an make our contribution to the erection and dedication of our statue. Please confer with us as to how you can leverage your contribution with the Department of New York before you make your commitment.

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