DAV sponsors national civic participation week.

Service to veterans and service to our country are the DAV's legacy. As a natural outgrowth of this rich heritage, the DAV is proud to be a national sponsor of Participate America's National Civic Participation Week, Sept. 11-17.

"This week-long program is designed to encourage civic participation, celebrate the spirit of the American people, and honor those we lost in the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001," said DAV National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson. "I believe our Chapters and Departments and individual members can become actively involved in many worthwhile activities in their communities."

"Each year, during this week, Participate America will bring together millions of Americans to celebrate our democracy and to showcase civic participation," said Robert Hansan, chairman of the Participate America board of directors and president and CEO of Capitol Advantage. "From the board room to the class room, we dedicate this week to renew our commitment to our democracy and our nation."

Participate America, a not-for-profit foundation whose supporters include national organizations, businesses, associations, and corporations, will involve millions of people in the political process, and bring people together in civic forums, as well as traditional grassroots activities.

"DAV members can be a part of this nationwide project through any number of civic activities, such as volunteering their time and talents in their communities," noted National Legislative Director Joseph A. Violante. "Thousands of our members already volunteer at VA medical facilities to help brighten the lives of sick and disabled veterans, and there are plenty of other ways to participate in their communities."

"By visiting schools and classrooms, disabled veterans can help give American students a unique opportunity to learn more about our country and its values, as well as the people who have been called upon to defend its freedom," said Mr. Violante.

Many schools across the country welcome veterans who are willing to speak to classes or groups of students in local schools. No special skills or preparation are required; veterans just have to be themselves. The idea is for veterans to share personal stories about their military service that not only can give a first-hand glimpse of history but teach young people important life lessons.

Programs such as Veterans in the Classroom at schools across the country and the VA's Lessons of Liberty project help the next generation of Americans to better understand the values, commitment, and sacrifices of our men and women who have served our nation in the past.

"Such education-related programs offer a unique opportunity for disabled veterans to make a direct connection with America's youth," Mr. Violante said. "At the same time you will be joined by many others ushering in a new era of civic participation and the largest celebration ever of democracy in action."

For more information on the VA's Lessons of Liberty project contact Erwin Huelsewede, at [phone], or on the Web at www.va.gov/Veteranedu/.