Veterans Affairs
DMVA Encourages Eligible Veterans To Apply For Amputee, Paralyzed Veterans Pension
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) wants veterans who may qualify for a monthly pension through the state’s Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension program to apply now. The DMVA has been raising awareness as the Amputee Coalition recognizes National Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month throughout April.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Resident of Pennsylvania upon entering the military;
Honorable or Under Honorable Conditions discharge; and
Service-connected disability rating of 40% or higher in each of two or more limbs (arms/hands or legs/feet) as determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
To apply, Pennsylvania veterans should contact their County Director of Veterans Affairs in the county they reside.
Veterans Programs and Services
Shapiro Administration Announces Grant Awards Made Through DMVA’s Veterans’ Trust Fund Program
The Shapiro Administration has awarded more than $1 million in grants through the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ (DMVA) Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF). The funding, raised through donations, will support 15 county directors of veterans affairs and 24 nonprofits and veterans service organizations across the commonwealth as they carry out initiatives to address challenges Pennsylvania veterans face, from food and housing insecurity to transportation and behavioral health issues.
The DMVA is proud that 100 percent of each dollar donated to VTF goes directly to fund these grants. Donations can be made directly online, as well as when applying for or renewing a driver’s license, photo ID, or motor vehicle registration. The VTF also receives proceeds from the sale of the Honoring Our Veterans and Honoring Our Women Veterans license plates, as well as private donations.
Veterans Homes
April Is National Volunteer Month
Throughout National Volunteer Month, the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) thanked the hundreds of volunteers who selflessly donated their time and talents to the staff and residents throughout our veterans homes in 2024.
The volunteers and service organizations were honored at various special events, including dinners, luncheons, and ceremonies held at the homes.
Delaware Valley Veterans’ Home recognized 40 volunteers for their collective 3,582 volunteer hours.
Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center awarded service pins to 32 volunteers for their collective 2,030 volunteer hours and will follow with a picnic during State Veterans Homes Week in June.
Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home recognized the 50 volunteers for their collective 3,180 volunteer hours at the home and 39 service organizations who contributed 2,010 volunteer hours at off-campus events and trips hosting residents.
Pennsylvania Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Home recognized 115 volunteers for their collective 11,040 volunteer hours.
Southeastern Veterans’ Center recognized 106 volunteers for their collective 6,607 volunteer hours.
Southwestern Veterans’ Center recognized their 758 volunteers for their collective 5,342 hours and awarded 18 volunteers with the Presidential Volunteer Service Award.
Volunteers provide crucial assistance to the staff at our homes, including transporting residents to events, helping during mealtime, participating in fun activities, staffing the snack stand, and accompanying on field trips. Community organizations and veterans’ organizations also volunteer to assist with activities at homes throughout the year.
Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center Milestone Birthday
James Fiume, a resident at Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center (GMVC), turned 100 years old on March 27. James served in the Army during WWII as a combat engineer. The GMVC held a celebration for Fiume on March 28 where he was joined by friends and fellow residents to celebrate.
Happy 100th Birthday and thank you for your service!
DVVH Celebrated 102 Years of Peg Seiz: A Legacy of Faith, Creativity and Community
Margaret (Peg) Seiz, a resident at Delaware Valley Veterans’ Home (DVVH), turned 102 years old on March 26.
Born and raised in Germantown, PA, Seiz was the eldest of 12 children - six girls and six boys.
During World War II, both she and her husband proudly served in the U.S. Navy. She worked in teletype services, ensuring critical communication for the military. Her connection to service remained strong throughout her life, as she was recently honored by Bishop Joseph L. Coffey of the Archdiocese for the Military Services USA, when he visited her at the Delaware Valley Veterans’ Home to celebrate her life and faith.
A talented watercolor painter, her works often reflected her deep religious faith. She is best known for painting the "Road to Emmaus" for then-Monsignor Nelson Pérez, now the Archbishop of Philadelphia.
She has an incredible ability to make friends with anyone, loves to make people laugh, and has a flair for fashion—adoring shiny dresses and jewelry that match her sparkling personality. She can brighten any room and her laughter is contagious.
Seiz and her husband have five children, nine grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. Seiz’s home was always filled with warmth, love, and the delicious aromas of her cooking. To her family, she wasn't just a mother, grandmother, or great-grandmother, she was the heart of their home, a source of endless love and joy.
Happy 102nd Birthday, Peg!
Director of Joint Staff
PNG State Partnership Program Reaches 1,000th Engagement Milestone
The Pennsylvania National Guard State Partnership Program marked the 1,000th Military-to-Military engagement with Lithuanian Armed Forces during Exercise Allied Spirit 25 in Hohenfels, Germany. Allied Sprit, a recurring exercise held at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) from February 24 to March 20, featured an allied unit as the primary training audience. This year, the Lithuanian Griffin Brigade was selected as the rotational unit, joining units from other NATO nations, demonstrating interoperability in a dynamic, combat training environment. The Pennsylvania National Guard’s 28th Infantry Division staff joined the exercise, working shoulder-to-shoulder with their Lithuanian partners.
The 28th Infantry Division participated as the higher headquarters element for the exercise, providing the Griffin Brigade an opportunity to integrate into and operate with an allied partner’s division. In addition, the 28 Infantry Division provided embedded subject-matter experts as staff officers and non-commissioned officers to the Griffin Brigade. These staff members integrated across the Griffin Brigade staff to support warfighting functions as fire supporters, logisticians, maneuver planners, intelligence, and targeting advisors.
In January, prior to the exercise, the Pennsylvania National Guard conducted a week-long staff leader training program event with Griffin Brigade leaders, preparing Lithuanian partners to execute their war-fighting tasks. This event allowed the 28th Infantry Division to familiarize Griffin Brigade staff with processes, tactics, techniques, and procedures to succeed at JMRC.
The Pennsylvania National Guard partners with Lithuanian Armed Forces across multiple lines of effort, supporting EUCOM milestones to build partner capacity, and NATO capability targets to increase the readiness of the alliance. This event demonstrated a culmination of several lines of effort to develop combined land forces capability, centered around the new Lithuanian Division.
The 28th Infantry Division is already engaged in a multiple-year initiative to train Lithuanian Division staff to synchronize brigade operations. Exercise Allied Spirit served as a validation of that effort, and a testing ground for lessons learned. The demonstrated ability of the Griffin Brigade to operate within an allied division is the result of more than 30 years of mutually beneficial partnership. Allied Spirit provided the opportunity for Pennsylvania National Guard and Griffin Brigade members to learn from one another as well as demonstrate the trust and friendship built as the result of the State Partnership Program. Trust and friendship that has carried the partnership through 1,000 engagements and beyond.
Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting Continues At Fort Indiantown Gap
The new Alcoholics Anonymous meeting has started at the Chapel, Bldg. 0-8, Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA. The meeting takes place either in-person or via Zoom every Wednesday starting at Noon. This confidential and supportive group is open to all active duty, Reserve and National Guard (Army and Air) regardless of rank or branch, and Fort Indiantown Gap civilian employees who are seeking help with alcohol abuse or addiction.
Learn and practice the principles of the 12-step program to achieve and maintain sobriety. Share your experiences, strength and hope with those who understand the unique challenges of civilian and military life. What is shared in the meeting, stays in the meeting. This is a safe space free of rank or judgment. We are all here to support each other. Come in uniform, PT gear, or civilian clothes.
Alcoholism can affect anyone, including service members. Sobriety can lead to improved mental well-being, reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Alcoholics Anonymous will help those who are struggling to repair and build stronger relationships with family, friends, fellow service members, and civilians. Participants will also be able to meet others who struggle with alcohol consumption, learn strategies that lead to sobriety, and focus on their career and reach their full potential without the hindrance of alcohol. If you are struggling with alcohol, you are not alone. Attending this AA meeting can be the first step toward a healthier, happier and more fulfilling life.
POCs are James Ring at 717-861-5076, or email at james.a.ring6.mil@army.mil, and Joanne Tresco at 717-861-2259, or email at joann.p.tresco.ctr@army.mil.
PA National Guard Army
Soldiers Recognized For Outstanding Support Of Operation Inherent Resolve
Members of the 528th Finance Company recently received accolades for their outstanding performance during their ongoing deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The unit provides critical financial services that sustain combat operations and ensure the welfare of troops in the region. LTC Leroy Cisneros, deputy commander, 115th Regional Support Group, praised the unit while stating “they are an invaluable asset to the team.” We are extremely proud of the work these soldiers, and all our service members are doing to help combat terrorism globally.
Recognizing A PAARNG U.S. Army Ranger School Graduate
SPC Ian Zimmerman, 1-110th Infantry, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, recently graduated U.S. Army Ranger School at Ft. Benning, GA. “Ranger school is the U.S. Army’s premier leadership school, and earning the (Ranger) Tab is an outstanding accomplishment,” said LTC Joe Hardigree, commander, Warrior Training Battalion. Due to the demanding curriculum, Ranger school is known for high attrition rates with the graduation rate typically only 50%. This is a huge accomplishment for Zimmerman and his PAARNG family appreciates his hard work and dedication.
PA National Guard Air Force
Keeping The Skies Safe - 171st ARW
The 258th Combat Airfield Operations Squadron made moves this rainy April, loading the MSN-7 mobile tower into a C-17 for the first time in years. With Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst’s tower under renovation, they’re keeping training missions flying!
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EgshY4Yvc/
Exercise Southern Steel - 171st ARW
Our Airmen from Pennsylvania and Ohio teamed up and boarded a C-17 and headed to New Zealand for Exercise Southern Steel. This two-week, global training mission sharpens emergency response skills through international teamwork and real-world scenarios.
Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/957561/exercise-southern-steel
Weapons Qualified - 111th ATKW
Airmen from the 111th Attack Wing sharpened their skills at JB MDL, firing M18 pistols and M4 carbines in dynamic range drills. The training keeps their aim sharp and their readiness lethal for the Pennsylvania Air National Guard.
37 Years Of Service - 193rd SOW
Please join us in congratulating Col. Susan Garrett, 193rd Regional Support Group commander, upon her retirement and her presentation of the Pennsylvania Distinguished Service Medal. After starting her 37-year military career with the 193rd Medical Group, we bid her farewell from the same place it all started!
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16H966krbG/
DMVA News and Events
New Building At Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home Nearing Completion
This fall, the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) will cut the ribbon on its new addition at the Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home in Blair County.
Lightner Hall, a state-of-the-art community living center, has a capacity of 200 residents.
Residents will begin to move into the building the third week of November.
Lightner Hall is named after Sgt. 1st Class Daniel J. Lightner Jr of Hollidaysburg, a Pennsylvania State Trooper and member of the Pennsylvania National Guard who was killed by an improvised explosive device while serving in Iraq in 2005.
The building is more than 90 percent complete after two years of construction and features modern amenities, a full staff kitchen and several gathering areas for residents to enjoy each others company.
The ribbon cutting is scheduled for Sept. 12, 2025.
Keystone State Challenge Academy
Cadets Participate In The 2-166 RTI LFX
The military club of Class 25-1 participated in the Live Fire Exercise (LFX) with 2-166 Regional Training Institute (RTI). The 2-166 RTI conducts a 30-day NCO professional developmental course which culminates in a LFX where those soldiers demonstrate their knowledge in proper gun drills and supervision of how to manage all three of the Army’s Howitzers; M119, M777, and M109. Our cadets got a chance to both meet those young professional soldiers and walk through crew drills.
Additionally, our cadets had the opportunity to stand where most soldiers never get the chance to stand, right behind the artillery piece. Between salvos, the soldiers talked to the cadets and explained the proper operation of the gun crew, how to establish and maintain round counts, and what it takes to lead a group of soldiers in the operation of the firing sequence.
They also had the chance to enter the M109 and see what it took to be a crew member inside the tight quarters of that armored howitzer. During the live fire portion, the cadets were both surprised by the force and concussion of the Howitzers firing and that they could actually see the projectile fly through the air. The experience was a huge success and all who attended left there with a greater appreciation for those soldiers who man, operate and fire those systems.
Policy and Legislation
DMVA Welcomes New Legislative Aide And Legislative Specialist
Legislative Aide
We are excited to introduce our new legislative aide, who will play a vital role in supporting the smooth and efficient operation of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) Policy, Planning & Legislative Affairs Office (PPL). Serving as both assistant to the director and office manager, this individual will be responsible for managing day-to-day office operations, coordinating communications, and providing essential administrative support to ensure that PPL runs efficiently.
From handling scheduling and office organization to assisting in the preparation of reports and meetings, the legislative aide will be crucial in keeping the office organized and responsive. The legislative aide will work closely with the director and other team members, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the department's operations.
About Alexa Kinsely: Kinsely was raised in central Pennsylvania, attended HACC and Shippensburg University before starting a career with the Commonwealth of PA in 2019, which included starting out at Labor & Industry, followed by the PA Lottery, PA Gaming Control Board, and now the DMVA-PPL Office. Outside of work, Kinsely enjoys spending time with her daughter outdoors, traveling and her dog.
Legislative Specialist
The new legislative specialist will serve as an integral part of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), acting as a direct point of contact for veterans, their families, and other individuals seeking assistance with state services. This role will focus on addressing inquiries, resolving concerns, and providing guidance on accessing state programs and benefits, ensuring that veterans and their families receive timely and effective support.
The specialist will work closely with DMVA leadership and other state agencies to ensure seamless service delivery. Additionally, the role will involve managing incoming requests through various communication channels, including online forms, to streamline responses and improve overall constituent engagement.
About Paul Davis: Davis grew up on a farm just across the state line in Maryland. He attended Towson University and earned his B.S. in Law and American Civilization. He then attended Navy OCS and received his commission in 2013. Following his Navy service, Davis took a position in the district office for State Representative Brett Miller and now joins the DMVA after 10 years of service in the PA House of Representatives. He lives with his wife and two children in Lancaster, PA.
Pennsylvania Department Of Military And Veterans Affairs Heads To Washington, D.C. To Share Our Story
On April 8, 2025, the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), alongside senior leadership from the Pennsylvania National Guard, traveled to Washington, D.C. for a Congressional Delegation (CODEL) visit sponsored by the Pennsylvania National Guard Association (PNGAS). This important event brought together federal lawmakers and military leaders to highlight the impactful work of the DMVA and the Guard.
The visit provided a platform for the Adjutant General (TAG) and the deputies to share the National Guard’s unique value proposition and elevate the voices of those who serve. Attendees shared personal stories about their military service, the impact it has had on their families, and how the Guard has shaped their lives and communities.
Materials shared in preparation for the event included key talking points and a summary of DMVA’s current federal legislative priorities, designed to support meaningful conversations and strengthen federal advocacy efforts.
Ultimately, the visit aimed to tell Pennsylvania’s story, advocate for its priorities, and ensure that national decision-makers understand the critical role the DMVA and the Pennsylvania National Guard play—both at home and around the world.
Dusty Durand, DMVA director over the Office of Policy and Legislative Affairs, shared “the purpose of these visits are to tell our story, champion our priorities, and ensure our nation’s decision-makers understand the vital role the Pennsylvania DMVA and National Guard play—both at home and abroad.”
Facilities and Engineering
Controlled Burns At Fort Indiantown Gap
See smoke coming from Fort Indiantown Gap in the upcoming weeks? There is no need to worry as there are controlled burns happening throughout the training areas and ranges to clear underbrush that has accumulated throughout the winter. These burns are controlled by forestry and wildlife experts after careful assessment of wind and other conditions to ensure it is done in the safest manner. The goal is to reduce the severity and frequency of uncontrolled burns that could hinder training or negatively impact wildlife.