Tomorrow, February 3, 2024, is the 81st anniversary of the sinking of the United States Army Transport (USAT) Dorchester and numerous legendary acts of selflessness by four U.S. Army Chaplains, all representing different faiths, who found themselves together onboard. In all likelihood but still uncertain, the feats of the four Chaplains consumed little more than an hour onboard the ship. Four Chaplains Day was established by Congress in 1988 to honor these men for their […]

Look into opportunities offered by BVA’s Kathern F. Gruber Scholarships for spouses, dependent children, and grandchildren of blind and low vision veterans seeking support for their higher education tuition. Applications for the 2024-25 academic year are due April 30 for the five awards valued at $2,000 each. The scholarship can be a valuable help to students and their families.  The application process is straightforward with applicants evaluated on merit by a select committee. Although the […]

U.S. Representatives Greg Stanton (D-AZ-4) and Brian Mast (R-FL-21), two members of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee of the House of Representatives, earlier this week introduced a bipartisan bill with far-reaching future implications for blind and low vision veterans and other people with disabilities. The legislation, enthusiastically supported by BVA, stands to jumpstart conversations and comprehensive work to ensure that those with disabilities can utilize ride hailing autonomous technology in the form of driverless vehicles.  […]

BVA is pleased to announce the elections for Directors of Districts 2 and 4. As outlined in Article 6 of the BVA National Bylaws, these crucial roles represent the voices and needs of members residing in their respective districts. Nominations for the Directorships opened on February 1 (yesterday) and will close on March 1. Who can run?  Membership Matters: You must be a BVA member residing within the territorial boundaries of District 2 or District 4. Passion and […]

Do you know an unsung hero, tirelessly contributing to the betterment of BVA? Our Awards Program stands as a beacon, celebrating the exceptional accomplishments of our fellow blind and low vision veterans, as well as the unwavering commitment they exhibit in supporting their comrades. However, it is not just about our veterans. The program extends its spotlight to the extraordinary professionals and volunteers who go above and beyond, crafting a legacy of selfless service that […]

BVA members and their families throughout the country may be able to look forward to a quick end to winter weather, at least according to the semi-mythical groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil who woke up and did not see his shadow earlier today. The much-heralded event, an actual ceremony in front of thousands of spectators and a national audience viewing early morning network news programming, took place in the town of Punxsutawney on the western side […]

Beginning January 2023, veterans in acute suicidal crisis could begin going to any VA or non-VA health facility for emergency health care at no cost, including inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days and outpatient care for up to 90 days. It is not necessary to be enrolled in VA health care to take advantage of the new policy, which was created by the Veterans Comprehensive Prevention, Access to Care, and Treatment […]

VA has developed and released a resource sheet to empower caregivers with practical, safe advice and best practices in conducting a challenging transfer of a veteran from one place to another, especially when using equipment such as a walker or wheelchair. The guide includes methods for movement, important caregiver mechanics, and frequently forgotten reminders such as wearing nonslip shoes or socks. Read more. To access the document, click here. For more information on available VA […]

My tail is wagging with excitement about Waymo’s autonomous passenger cars. I provide a lot of independence and companionship for my mom as a working dog. We take trips to the grocery store, church, restaurants, and much more. Since my mom is a blinded veteran, I also accompany her on trips to VA, medical appointments, and even on airplanes.  Although I nap frequently, my paws still get tired. With the expansion of the Waymo One […]