Staff reports
The Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Chapter 12, of Port Royal, S.C., celebrated its 75th anniversary on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, marking three quarters of a century assisting veterans and their families.
The chapter held a commemorative dinner on Monday, July 13, 2026, to celebrate this significant milestone and to thank its members and their families for their selfless volunteer efforts.
Honored guests included Kevin Phillips, Mayor of Port Royal; Derwin Bradley, Department of S.C. Commander; and Henry Carson, District Committeeman. Each offered congratulatory remarks.
This significant milestone was recognized at the local, state, and national levels. Chapter leadership previously accepted proclamations from Beaufort Mayor Phillip Cromer and Beaufort County Council Chair Alice Howard. At the dinner, Phillips presented the Governor’s Proclamation on behalf of S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster. The mayor also delivered heartfelt words of thanks and appreciation for the chapter.
The Governor’s Proclamation read in part:
WHEREAS, 75 years ago, on July 1st, 1951, a small group of just 45 dedicated veterans came together with a shared mission to support and advocate for those who served our nation, as DAV Chapter 12.
WHEREAS, through steadfast commitment, compassion, and service, the organization has grown from its original 45 members to more than 1,700 chapter members dedicated to serving veterans, their families, and the community.
WHEREAS, DAV Chapter 12 has worked tirelessly to ensure veterans receive the benefits, care, dignity, and respect they have earned through honorable military service.
WHEREAS, the organization has made a lasting impact through volunteerism, transportation programs, advocacy, community outreach, and countless hours of service to veterans and their families.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Henry Dargan McMaster, Governor of the great State of South Carolina, do hereby proclaim July 1st, 2026, as the 75th Anniversary of DAV Chapter 12.
U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, SC-1, forwarded a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition along with a congratulatory letter. In this letter, she stated, “Achieving seventy-five years of service is not an easy task; it represents the years of effort, leadership, and community service you have dedicated … Your success is an inspiration to us all, and our office wishes you continued growth and excellence in all that you do.”
After completing active-duty service, many veterans still desire to serve and assist fellow veterans and their families. The DAV motto remains as relevant today as ever: “Keeping our promise to America’s veterans.”
Those interested in joining or learning more are invited to attend the chapter’s monthly meetings, held on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m., at AMVETS Post 70, at 1831 Ribaut Road in Port Royal. The chapter offers free, walk-in assistance with VA benefit applications every Thursday morning from 8 to 11 a.m., at the same location. For more information, contact the chapter at davchapter12sc@gmail.com.
