Doing what she believes is right

Ensuring DAV will be here to help tomorrow’s veterans

Now 90, Ellie Gerhardt has lived through a lot. She grew up in a time and place where patriotism ran high, and caring for our veterans was part of what made her who she is today. She simply does not recall a time in her life when the needs of our veterans and military weren’t a priority.

Gerhardt remembers spending a lot of time volunteering during her younger years and going home feeling humbled by the sacrifices so many had made.

“I just have a great passion for DAV, and I don’t think we have enough people wanting to help. I knew 10 to 12 veterans who came home from World War II who were disabled,” said Gerhardt. “They had it so hard, and I’m just grateful they got to see home again, even though they weren’t the same. These men and women need our help.”

As a young woman during World War II, she married Bill, the love of her life and an Air Force veteran with whom she spent nearly 60 years. Bill has passed on now, but Gerhardt still proudly boasts of her husband’s accomplishments during the war and recalls the injuries he sustained during his service. She remembers how thankful they were that his injuries weren’t worse and credits the desire to honor her late husband’s memory as the reason why she named DAV in her estate plans.

When asked why she is supporting DAV in such a meaningful way, Gerhardt explained, “People are often so caught up with themselves and what’s wrong in their lives that they don’t realize how rough most people really have it. We can’t just focus on ourselves.”

By naming DAV in her estate plans, Gerhardt is ensuring that we will be here to continue serving veterans who need our help, now and for years to come. DAV is grateful for every bequest that comes in, and we never forget why we’re able to do all the great things that we do for veterans.

You can leave a legacy gift to DAV by naming us in your will or trust, or by naming us as a beneficiary on your insurance or pay-on-death accounts. If you’ve already named DAV in your estate plans, please let us know. We’d love to thank you and honor you in the DAV Guardian Society, as well as discuss anything you may need to know to ensure that your wishes are carried out the way that you intended. Even if you prefer anonymity, notifying us of your plans can ensure that your future wishes are carried out.