Helping hands
Henderson County DAV aids military personnel
By Chad Wilson

DAV Members, left to right, Pat Stewart, Ron Boyda, Jeanette Hill, Dwayne Garner, Mary Stewart, Lee Stewart and Ed Hill stand behind some of the items collected for active military personnel that will be sent as a care package.

They know what it is like to be in the military and they are doing what they can to make the experience better for those currently serving and their families.

The Henderson County Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Linda E. Brown Chapter 101 are making the difference for area veterans as well as those serving in active military.

"Our mission is to aid veterans and their widows by helping them in their efforts to receive medical and financial help when in need and to provide transportation to and from VA facilities," DAV member Dwayne Garner stated.

"We also support our active military personnel by sending letters of appreciation, emails, and care packages to our troops fighting overseas," Garner continued.

Currently the DAV is in works to send their second care pack- age to a Marine unit in Iraq in honor of a local hero, Donnie Goines of Murchison. Goines served in the unit that will receive the care package before receiving injuries.

The DAV encourages the community to join with them in sending supplies to our troops. Area businesses such as Wal-Mart, Brookshires and Y's Hometown Food help the DAV on a regular basis.

Anyone wishing to contribute non-perishable items or make a monetary donation may contact: Dwayne Garner 903-852- 6527, Kenneth Bragg 903- 852-3429, Henry Pearson 903-677-3429, Lee Stewart 903-549-2947 or Ed Hill 903-549-2218.

The purpose of the DAV is to uphold and maintain the Constitution and Laws of the United States, to realize the American aims and ideals for which they fought, to promote the welfare of disabled American veterans, to cooperate with the Department of Veteran Affairs and all other public and private agencies devoted to their cause.

Furthermore the purpose of the DAV is to apply the principals of comradeship, loyalty and devotion, particularly among all disabled veterans and their spouses, their orphans and dependents. And to encourage in all people that spirit of understanding which will guard against future wars.

The Henderson County DAV holds their monthly meetings the second Monday of each month at 6:30pm in the Senior Citizens Building on the Henderson County Fairgrounds in Athens. Everyone is invited to attend these meetings.