DAV is extremely troubled to learn about the Department of Veterans Affairs’ inspector general report which found thousands of military sexual trauma claims were mishandled by VA. DAV has long been committed to equitable services and care for women veterans, and though MST impacts both genders, women are disproportionately affected by this issue as one in four female veterans suffer sexual trauma while serving in the military. In 2014, DAV lauded the decision to have previously denied benefits for post-traumatic stress disorder related to MST reconsidered and encouraged all veterans we represent to know their right to file for reconsideration. DAV recognizes not all injuries are visible, yet they all require coordinated care, resources and services. Our service officers are standing by nationwide to assist any veteran who believes his or her MST claim may have been mishandled. MST can have devastating consequences on an individual’s ability to care for themselves and their families. With our utmost dedication, DAV will continue to fight to ensure justice for those suffering from MST.
Sexual trauma claims by veterans wrongly denied by VA, investigation finds
DAV is an organization of veterans helping veterans.
The reasons are as individual as our members. Some join for the fellowship at our more than 1,200 local chapters. Some for the inspiring national events. Others for opportunities to serve their fellow veterans and their families. And many join to continue the fight to support the rights and benefits of all veterans. DAV understands the needs of veterans because we are veterans—1 million strong. We invite you to join our cause.
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Naomi joined the Air Force in 2000 as a single mother. After the birth of her son in 2006 she sought help from the VA for her mental health, which she noticed was getting worse. Often times, women veterans using the VA for maternity care are outsourced to community care providers. Research looking at these patients who use VA-supported maternity care shows that women veterans are at higher risk for mental health and trauma-related diagnoses and substance use disorder, putting them at higher risk for suicide. In February 2024, DAV published “Women Veterans: The Journey to Mental Wellness.” This report is a comprehensive assessment of the unique factors contributing to the staggering rates of suicide among women veterans and how the system charged with their mental health care can and must do better. Read Naomi’s full story and learn more about the report and DAV’s findings at
Attention DAV members! On Tuesday, April 23, at 6:00 p.m. EDT, National Membership Director Doug Wells will host a webinar to discuss Recruiting Resources & Techniques. Doug will be available after the presentation to answer any questions attendees may have. To register for this Zoom webinar, please visit dav.la/3rv.Please note: A free Zoom account is required to attend this webinar. If you are unable to attend, the webinar will be recorded and shared with members at a later date.
Attention Virginia veterans and military spouses! Join DAV and RecruitMilitary at Naval Station Norfolk on Thursday, April 18, at 11 a.m. (Eastern) for an in-person job fair. Whether you are just transitioning from the military or you’re feeling underemployed and are looking to change your career, you could find your next move with one of the many employers in attendance. Find out more and register today at dav.la/3pb.#veterans #military #jobfair #careerfair #DAV #norfolk #virginiajobs #norfolkveterans