Group asks residents not to forget about veterans

Members of the Disabled American Veterans soon will be giving out little blue flowers in exchange for donations to the group.

Watch for members from Chapter 7, the local arm of the organization, sitting in front of Albertson's, Smith's, Scolari's and Wal-Mart stores from Aug. 31-Sept. 2 with the little cloth flowers, called "Forget-Me-Nots."

Mayor Marv Teixeira, a Korean War veteran himself, signed a proclamation to recognize the group's efforts and to remind the community the fundraiser is coming up.

DAV also plans to host a poker run through Carson City, Genoa, Markleeville, Gardnerville and back to Carson on Sept. 15.

The purpose of both fundraisers are to support the programs DAV operates.

"We pick up vets who can't drive and take them to and from the Veterans Hospital in Reno," said Wayne Willson, a representative of the DAV. "It's a lot of driving each year, and we're constantly replacing vans."

The group transported about 80 members to and from the hospital from Carson, Dayton and Gardnerville during July alone and intends to spend a good portion of money they raise to help pay for a new van. Many of these people would have no other way of getting necessary medical because they survive on highly limited incomes and have no friends or relatives who can take them, Willson said.

The group also makes treats for those living in nursing homes to enjoy during Christmas, Easter and other holidays. Earlier this year the chapter helped pay for small flags to be placed at veterans graves.

The chapter has been around for about 35 years and has more than 850 members, some from as far away Mineral County.

"Each year we are amazed by and appreciative of the support of the people in the Carson City area," said Jim Billig, the local adjutant.

"We're always looking for new members," he said.

People injured while on active military duty can qualify for DAV membership. Auxiliary members are spouses or children of members.

For details or to make a donation to the DAV, call Billig at 315-7328 or Willson at 885-7351.

• Contact reporter Terri Harber at tharber@nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111, ext. 215.