The Major General Melvin J. Maas Award for Professional Achievement recognizes and honors annually a blinded veteran with service-connected blindness who has attained a high level of proficiency in adjusting to life without sight, and who has achieved a high level of professional success and accomplishment in a chosen career field. The purpose of the award is the positive enhancement of the public image of blind persons and the elimination of the notion of dependence among blinded veterans. For more information, visit https://bva.org/programs/awards/#melvin-j-maas.

The Irving Diener Award recognizes and honors annually the BVA member with the most outstanding contribution to the growth and development of his/her regional group apart from personal achievements or endeavors. Members throughout the country serve one another in their local areas with dedication and loyalty, often at immense personal sacrifice. Those who serve with the greatest distinction merit the recognition and honor at the national level. For more information, visit https://bva.org/programs/awards/#irving-diener.

The David L. Schnair Award recognizes and honors the outstanding contributions of committed volunteers. BVA established the award in 1994 in memory and in honor of World War II veteran David Schnair, a member of the BVA Board of Directors and a Volunteer National Service Officer for nearly five decades. For more information, visit https://bva.org/programs/awards/#david-l-schnair.

Certificates of Appreciation recognize individuals, groups, and employers who have provided outstanding services to blinded veterans and their families, or to BVA at the national level. These services could include the creation of greater awareness of blinded veterans, their abilities, and their achievements. Typical recipients are, but are not necessarily limited to, VA employees or individuals and agencies engaged in blind rehabilitation. BVA members, their family members, and Association employees are not eligible for Certificates of Appreciation. For more information, visit https://bva.org/programs/awards/#certs-of-appreciation.