DAV DRIVERS: Want to show veterans how much you appreciate their service by giving something back? Here’s your opportunity.
After reading Thursday’s column on veterans’ benefits, the local Disabled American Veterans (DAV) transportation coordinator contacted us about the need for volunteers to drive veterans to medical appointments.
McKean County is in desperate need of drivers for veterans in the Bradford, Smethport and Kane areas, says Judy Leroy.
In a speech she made recently seeking drivers at a local group, Leroy talked about the need to protect those men and women who have protected us. In doing so, she described the military men and women she sees in the reception area of the doctors’ offices.
“Those without legs, arm amputees, some with service dogs to assist them — and I can’t help but wonder what kind of hell they endured for our country — being maimed for life to protect you and me,” she said. “They are only the outward signs. The psychological effects of serving are seldom seen.”
Driving for the DAV means giving vets a chance to get the medical help they need.
Leroy noted that veterans who use the program must be able to get around, so volunteers don’t have to have nursing skills; they just need to be able to drive.
And to listen, she advised. “My experience in driving with the vets is learning they love to chat. So have a good listening ear.”
Leroy explained that drivers are volunteers for the government, so they will have to follow certain requirements. They will need to go to have a background check, a good driving record and a physical at the Erie VA.
There is no cost for volunteers to participate — only their time is needed. The federal government pays for the physical and background check, and there is even a DAV they will take to appointments. In Bradford, the DAV Ford Explorer is parked at the post office on Boylston Street.
“Frequently we have daily runs and this is quite taxing on the volunteers, especially when some of the runs go to Erie, Buffalo, Pittsburgh and Cleveland, Leroy said. “When there are more drivers, the load is lighter.”
Volunteers are only expected to make runs when they are available. When a vet makes a request, the coordinator will call or text to see if the volunteer is available to make the run, but there is no pressure.
Anyone interested in volunteering as a driver is asked to call 460-2327.
This is also the number veterans call to schedule appointments. She emphasized that veterans do need to have appointments authorized by the VA for transportation.
