WILDWOOD – Disabled American Veterans Department of New Jersey held its installation during its 98th state convention in Wildwood. The newly installed officers took their oath of office to serve the veterans of the state and their families.
Current State Commander, Frank Vignola outlined the work that had been accomplished with homeless veterans, preservation of veteran’s rights/ benefits and improved medical care availability for thousands of veterans in the state. Vignola received several awards for his dedication to veteran’s issues during his time in office.
Newly elected Commander Gordon Lee Payne accepted the gavel and the challenge to continue the critical work of the department. Payne outlined several key issues, including the reorganization of chapters, recruitment of new members and making training available to chapter commanders and their staffs to comply with the changing landscape in the state.
The new slate of officers serving for 2018-19 are Payne; Senior Vice Commander Fred Smith; First Junior Vice Commander Leonard Long; Second Junior Vice Commander Walter Applegate; Third Junior Vice Commander Phil Martir; Chief Inspector Keith Bradley; Judge Advocate Walter Kaczmarek; and Treasurer Hank Houston. Appointed officers are Adjutant Johnnie Walker, Sgt.-of-Arms Kathy Kukel and Officer of the Day Jim Keyser Sr.
