On November 13, DAV (Disabled American Veterans) hosted the DAV Community of Heroes reception at the San Diego Museum of Man. Christina Silva, a female veteran with a remarkable story of overcoming incredible obstacles in her transition to civilian life, and The San Diego Padres were recognized for their support of veterans’ issues.

“The Community of Heroes reception allowed us to thank the San Diego community for their ongoing support of veterans,” said DAV CEO and National Adjutant Marc Burgess. “This event recognized our many partners here in San Diego who help to fulfill our nation’s promises to the men and women who served.”

Christina Silva, a veteran and U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal, served during Desert Storm and Desert Shield and received a Meritorious Mast Award for her outstanding service. During deployment training, she suffered a shrapnel wound, coupled with in a serious foot injury. It was a very difficult emotional time for her, as her mother was gravely ill, her father had passed away and she was pregnant. Her military training strengthened her self-confidence and with determination, faith and help from her extended family at DAV, she was able to move forward in life and help others in need. Today, she uses her experience to help other veterans through volunteer work at DAV, encouraging them to live an active life as they transition back to being a civilian. She is thankful she can use her experiences to inspire others.

“It brings me great joy to continue to serve my fellow veterans,” said Silva. “I’m thankful for the help I received and am passionate about helping fellow veterans who have sacrificed so much for all of us.”

The San Diego Padres organization was recognized for its ongoing appreciation of all those who serve, including veterans and active duty men and women. The Padres regularly salute and honor members of the local military community, with dedicated military appreciation days every Sunday, including pre-game salutes and the hosting of veterans and active duty service men and women at the ballpark. The club’s longstanding commitment to the military also includes the organization of baseball clinics for local military children, recognition of nonprofit organizations that support the military community, and ticket discounts for veterans, active duty members of the military and their families.

“Those who serve and have served our country are the cornerstone of this community,” said Sarah Farnsworth, senior vice president, public affairs, San Diego Padres. “The Padres are proud to continue to honor and support our veterans and their families, especially as so many continue to make San Diego their home.”

The private reception was held yesterday and attendees included veterans, public officials and business and community leaders. The purpose of DAV’s Community of Heroes events are to pay tribute to local men and women who served and say thank you to communities for supporting local heroes during their often difficult transition to civilian life.

ABOUT DAV:
DAV empowers veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. It is dedicated to a single purpose: fulfilling our promises to the men and women who served. DAV does this by ensuring that veterans and their families can access the full range of benefits available to them; fighting for the interests of America’s injured heroes on Capitol Hill; and educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life. DAV, a non-profit organization with 1.2 million members, was founded in 1920 and chartered by the U. S. Congress in 1932. Learn more at www.dav.org.

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