By Harold Brummett

Star Denmark Route

 

The Department of Mississippi Disabled American Veterans met from April 24-27 at the Golden Moon Hotel owned by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. The opening ceremony was highlighted by the national anthem sung by an 11-year-old Choctaw girl in the Choctaw language. 

Over six thousand Choctaw refused settlement in Oklahoma and became the nucleus of the Mississippi Band. Hardships, segregation and bigotry was endured. It was not until the latter part of the 20th century and into the 21st century that the Mississippi Band of Choctaws enjoyed a measure of prosperity and equality. 

It was in this backdrop that the Mississippi DAV held our meetings. The Choctaws, despite their history with the federal government, have always been patriots and have bled, died and sacrificed for their country. The Mississippi DAV listened to speakers General (Ret.) Cross who is the military advisor for Congressman Guest and Senior Vice Commander for National DAV, Coleman Nee. 

General Cross greeted the DAV on behalf of Congressman Guest and took questions to take back to the Congressman. Several items were brought forward and the DAV trusts that the concerns voiced will be taken back to our representative. 

Coleman Nee gave an enthusiastic speech centering around the theme of service and the DAV mission to help veterans learn about and attain those benefits earned through service and sacrifice. 

An interesting quote Mr. Nee gave was from Marcus Tullius Cicero  (3 January 106 BC – 7 December 43 BC) – “Not for ourselves alone are we born; our country, our friends, have a share in us”.  This could very well be the credo of the DAV as a service organization. 

D.J. DePriest chapter 48 (Oxford) was well represented. The immediate past State Commander is Leroy Matthews who fulfilled his successful year as State Commander. Harold Brummett was elected as first senior vice-commander and David Bella was elected as Sergeant at Arms. 

The position of Mississippi State Department Women’s Veteran Coordinator was recently established and at this meeting reinforced by appointing Patricia A. Thompson to the executive committee of the Mississippi DAV. Money was allocated to show our commitment to those women who have served our country. Through Ms. Thompson’s efforts a voice is given to their needs.  

Part of the DAV mission statement says our one single purpose is ‘to build better lives for all of our nation’s disabled veterans and their families.’ Those in attendance rededicated their efforts to this mission statement. 

The four service organizations meet at the veterans hut at 125 Veterans Drive. The DAV, VFW, American Legion and the Marine Corps League all meet at different times during the month. Join us in the effort to insure America’s promise to veterans is kept, and to give assistance to our brothers and sisters.