Darrel Babcock, who had a 25-year career with DAV, died April 7, 2026. He was 81.

Born and raised in Naponee, Nebraska, Babcock served in the Army as a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Brigade during the Vietnam War. He was seriously wounded in combat and was medically retired in 1971.

Babcock began his career with DAV as a national service officer apprentice in 1972 in Lincoln, Nebraska. As an NSO, he also worked in San Antonio. In 1990, he became the personnel director at DAV National Headquarters in Cold Spring, Kentucky. In 1993, he became a field director at the National Service and Legislative Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and retired in 1996.

“We are immensely thankful for Darrel’s contributions to DAV and for his service to his fellow veterans,” said DAV National Adjutant Barry Jesinoski. “DAV grieves along with his family and the many veterans and families he served through our sacred cause. May he rest in peace.”

Babcock was preceded in death by his wife, Ginny. He is survived by his daughter, Faith Seeton; stepdaughter, Deloris Lundy; and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.