Message from Acting Secretary Ed Rothstein

Dear Friends, We are dedicated to honoring Maryland's veterans and their families, and one of the services we provide is interment or inurnment at one of the five state veteran cemeteries. This is a benefit you earned with your service. Maryland was the first state in the nation to have a state managed veteran cemetery and DVMF manages the busiest state veteran cemetery program in the U.S. In Maryland, state veteran cemeteries are located in Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Prince George’s County, on the Eastern Shore and in Western Maryland. As 2026 approaches, we're looking forward to celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Eastern Shore cemetery. Veterans who qualify, along with their eligible family members receive a burial plot, grave liner, headstone, and burial services at no cost.  You may apply in advance for burial in a Maryland state veteran cemetery by submitting a Pre-Interment application.  Now authorized for burial in state veteran cemeteries are National Guard members, Reservists, and their eligible family members.  There is a fee of $1,002 for these interments.  If you have any questions concerning the DVMF Cemetery and Memorials Program, please contact the staff at any of the five Maryland Veterans Cemeteries. Sincerely, Ed

DVMF Website

The Recovering Warrior Sailing Regatta was hosted by Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating, Inc. (CRAB) and the U.S. Naval Academy Sailing Team.  DVMF Acting Secretary Rothstein participated in the regatta.  Congratulations to all who participated in this fun and exciting event.

Roslyn Jones, DVMF Women Veteran/Inclusion Program Manager was the guest speaker at the Annual MIA/POW event at Fort Meade. Sponsored by the Air Force Sergeants Association - Chapter 254, the event included a 24-hour remembrance run, and continuous movement of the POW/MIA flag by military members and families to honor prisoners of war and those still missing in action.  Ceremonies for opening and closing the run were held at Mullins Field.  

Pictured from left to right are: LTC Manuel Duarte, 70 ISR Wing Chaplain, TSgt S. Nicole Andrasy, USAF, SSG Riley Haab, USAF, MSG (R) Mark Hamilton, Air Force Sergeant Association Chap 254, Roslyn Jones, Mrs. Frances Rodgers, 70 ISR Wing Chief Protocol and COL Johannes Moore, Deputy Commander 70 ISR Wing.

DVMF Deputy Secretary Dana Burl spoke at the kick-off event for the planned Veteran Service Dog Memorial located at the Maryland Veterans Museum at Patriot Park.  You may find more information on the memorial here.

Last week, DVMF staff visited  Chesapeake Therapeutic Riding, Inc. (CTR) in Harford County to observe their "Horses and Heroes" program, which included veterans from the VA Maryland Health Care System at Perry Point. CTR is a grantee of the DVMF's Service Animal Grant Program. Horses and Heroes programming offers social wellness therapy, and physical activity such as leading and walking with horses or ponies through an obstacle course.

The annual service animal grant program application is open for 2025. Download application here.

Note: The deadline for applications has been extended to Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 3:00 pm

TOMORROW!

Crusin' Southern Maryland fundraiser benefits

Charlotte Hall Veterans Home residents:

DVMF Staff Honors Veterans and Supports Walk Maryland Day

On Wednesday, October 1, 2025, staff from DVMF came together in downtown Annapolis to take part in Walk Maryland Day, a statewide initiative that promotes health, fitness, and community connection through walking. The journey took them on a visit to a powerful new memorial mural at the corner of Duke of Gloucester and Conduit Streets.

The mural honors Navy veteran Danny Buck, who tragically died by suicide. Created in partnership with the Military Hope Foundation, the mural stands as both a tribute to Danny’s life and a reminder of the importance of supporting service members, veterans, and their families. Learn more about the mural here, (CBS News article).

This walk was more than just a wellness activity—it was a moment of reflection and community. By participating, DVMF staff honored Danny’s memory while also demonstrating the Department’s commitment to service, connection, and resilience for all Maryland veterans and military families.

Governor Moore Announces Resources for Federal Workers as Team Maryland Stands United in Response to Federal Government Shutdown

Governor Wes Moore announced support and resources available to help meet the needs of federal workers who live in Maryland and are impacted by the federal government shutdown. The renewed surge of resources and support comes as President Trump and Congressional Republicans have failed to reach an agreement to keep the government open, continuing the assault on Marylanders and Maryland’s economy. “The federal government is stepping away from its basic obligations to Maryland and our people. But despite the challenge, our resolve is unwavering,” said Gov. Moore. “In this state, we live Mission-First, People-Always. I encourage federal government workers to take full advantage of these resources.” Read More Here

Governor Moore Joins Maryland Air National Guard to Honor A-10C Thunderbolt II Flying Mission During Inactivation Ceremony

Governor Wes Moore today joined the Maryland Air National Guard for the inactivation ceremony for the A-10C Thunderbolt II flying mission at Warfield Air National Guard Base at Martin State Airport. To mark the end of Maryland’s flying mission, Governor Moore honored and celebrated Maryland’s 104th Fighter Squadron—one of the nation’s oldest Air National Guard flying units—as they transition to serve the state’s cyber mission. 

“Today, we honor over a century of Airmen who raised their hands to wear the uniform, and pay tribute to an incredible aircraft that has helped to write our nation’s history,” said Gov. Moore. “Nobody understands the importance of these aircraft better than the men and women of the 175th Wing, who bear the standard for the path forward: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do. And while I never had the honor of deploying our A-10s as governor, I am very proud to be the governor who is able to say: job well done.”

The governor was joined by Major General Janeen L. Birckhead, adjutant general for Maryland, and Brigadier General Drew Dougherty, assistant general for Air for the ceremony, which formally inactivated the 175th Operations Group, the 175th Maintenance Group, and all subordinate units before the final two aircraft departed as part of the U.S. Air Force divestment.

Read More Here

Photo courtesy of the Executive Office of the Governor

WBAL-TV article

Air Force Times article

News from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Maryland Department of Natural Resources to Begin Fall Trout Stocking for 2025

The annual program will bring thousands of hatchery-raised rainbow, brown, and golden rainbow trout to streams and impoundments across the state. This initiative provides recreational fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels throughout the autumn months. Read more.

Early Muzzleloader Deer Season Opens Oct. 16

The first segment of Maryland’s muzzleloader deer season will be open Oct. 16-18 statewide. Hunters in Region B — the state’s central, southern, and eastern regions — can also use muzzleloaders from Oct. 20-25 for antlerless deer only. Read more.

Maryland’s Bear Population is More Active in Fall

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds residents that black bears are beginning a period of increased feeding activity in preparation for winter hibernation. As the leaves change and the weather cools, bears can become more attracted to human-provided food sources and lose their natural fear of people, which can be dangerous for both people and bears. Read more.

Federal News

Support, connect with Veterans for Buddy Check Week

Bringing technology and community together to keep Veterans safe

Layered protection for moments of a suicide crisis

Suicide Prevention through peer mentoring

Serving older Veterans every step of the way

VA driver rehabilitation programs restore independence for Veterans

Which pain therapy is best

Live Whole Heath #291: Create space for stillness through tai chi

Helping Veterans Find Justice and Healing Through Art, video

Partner offers life changing journey: 2026 applications open

Connect with fellow Veterans at MCON.live

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time when the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and the Department of Defense highlight the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) and provide resources for Veterans, their families, and VA employees. The VA Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) offers support for those affected by IPV, which is a significant public health issue that disproportionately impacts Veterans

Join us on Facebook and YouTube for a month-long series in October when Lindsay Wilson, IPV Coordinator at the VA Maryland Health Care System, discusses how VA can help. The live stream sessions will take place every Wednesday at 2 p.m. during October.

Here is a rundown on the topics:

10/1- Intro to the IPV Assistance Program

10/8- Health Cares About Domestic Violence Day- this is a nationally recognized day to shine a spotlight on the connection between DV and health. Wilson will focus on health impacts and why we care about it in the health care setting

10/15- Red Flags and Warning Signs (of an abusive relationship)

10/22- How Can the VA Help? (A run down of different programming VA offer’s  to help people on either side)

10/29- How Can You Help Someone You Know? (A discussion about why people don’t leave, and ways people in their lives can help and support them)

Join us for this series on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. on Facebook and YouTube

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MDVAHCS

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MDVAHCS

Volunteer to walk with the VA Maryland Health Care System (VAMHCS) in the Baltimore City Veterans Day Parade. Email VAMHCSPublicRelations@va.gov by Oct. 14th to secure a spot!

he VAMHCS group will depart from the Baltimore VA Medical Center on Nov. 8th at 9 a.m. There will be a wreath laying at the end of the parade at the War Memorial Plaza.

For more information, or to volunteer to walk in the parade with the VAMHCS, email VAMHCSPublicRelations@va.gov by Oct.14.

For Your Information

The Maryland Department of Veterans & Military Families does not endorse the organizations sponsoring these events, and we do not endorse the views they express or the products/services they offer.  The views and opinions expressed in any referenced document do not necessarily state or reflect those of DVMF.  The information provided is intended for your general knowledge only, and serves solely as a DVMF community outreach effort.

On 19 September 2025, the Legacy of Honor Project, led by Denise Robinson hosted a  ceremony to mark the 47^th National POW/MIA Recognition Day at Maryland’s World War II Memorial.  2025 marks the 80^th Anniversary of the end of World War II. The ceremony honored the over 1,000 Marylanders whose names are recorded on the Tablets of the Missing around the world.

The Honor Guard were members of VFW Post 304. The meaning of the missing man table was read by Annapolis resident and retired Rear Adm. Frank Thorp, USN. Keith Brown, of Maryland’s Department of Veterans and Military Families helped set the Missing Man Table earlier in the day. Attendees included two Gold Star family members. 

Community Calendar

October 4, 2025

Ft. Detrick Color Run/Walk 5K, Frederick

October 6, 2025

Mental Health Awareness, Temple Hills

Access to Opportunity: Business Tools for Women, Veterans & Small Businesses in Charles County, Register

October 7, 2025

Howard County offering Valor Workshop: You are transitioning from the military...now what?, virtual

October 8, 2025

Union Trades Career Fair, Sparrows Point

37th Annual Suicide Prevention Conference, Virtual

October 9 - 13, 2025

Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, New Windsor

October 9. 2025

Maryland VSBE & SBR Program Certification Workshop, Virtual

Longevity Ready Maryland - Aging Awareness Workshop, Columbia and Virtual option

October 11, 2025

Veterans Claims and Resource Day, Morningside

October 15, 2025

CRAB: Military Sailing Days

October 16, 2025

National Disability Employment & Awareness Month Job & Resource Fair, Laurel, Register

October 18, 2025

Easterseals Walk with Me Fundraiser, National Harbor

Platoon 22 Event: Cocktails & Clydesdales, Keymar

Wellspring of Life Farm Discovery Time for Military & First Responders & Family, Monkton

October 20, 2025

Maryland Military Coalition's 4th Annual Legislative Listening Session, Annapolis

October 21, 2025

ServingTogether Caregiver Connect, Register

October 23, 2025

ServingTogether Women's Community Engagement Board, Register, More Information

October 24, 2025

Ft. Meade Retiree Appreciation Day, McGill Training Center, Ft. Meade

October 25, 2025

DAV Claims Clinic, Waldorf

Veterans Benefits Claims Clinic, Waldorf

Lifeline Horse Rescue and LETS Program Fall Open House, Gaithersburg, Free Tickets

Veterans Ministry Information Center Grand Opening, St. Leonard

October 28, 2025

Using AI in Operations, Marketing, Sales & Services for Small Business, Virtual

October 29, 2025

Prince George's County Operation Base Camp, Virtual

Community News

Platoon 22 Upcoming Events

Cohen Veterans Network: Have Her Six: Prevent Military Women Suicide

Kayaking Opportunities for Maryland Veterans with Team River Runner

Oct 3: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans DC Sunset Paddle, Washington Canoe Club, Georgetown, DC, Register

Oct 4: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Saturday Family Paddle, Mallows Bay, Nanjemoy, Register

Oct 5: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans DC Biathlon, Washington Canoe Club, Georgetown, DC, Register

Oct 11: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Saturday Family Paddle, St. Inigoes Landing, St. Inigoes, Register

Oct 18: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans McIntosh Run Paddle, Leonardtown Wharf, Leonardtown, Register

Oct 22: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans White Water Wednesday, Lock 6, Bethesda, Register

Oct 25: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Saturday Family Paddle, Jefferson-Patterson Park, St. Leonard, Register

Oct 31: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Halloween Sunset Paddle, Mallows Bay, Nanjemoy, Register

Nov 1: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Saturday Family Paddle, Smallwood State Park, Marbury, Register

Nov 8: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Saturday Family Paddle, Hallowing Point Boat Ramp, Prince Frederick, Register

Nov 15: Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Saturday Family Paddle, Greenwell State Park, Hollywood, Register

Future Events: Save the Date

November 1, 2025: Stars, Stripes & Chow fundraiser for Baltimore Station, Camden Yards

November 1, 2025: Winterhaven Homeless Veterans Stand Down, VA DC Medical Center

November 6, 2025: TOP III Job Fair, Joint Base Andrews

November 7, 2025: St. Mary's County Veterans Resource Day, California

November 7, 2025: Prince George's County 2025 Veterans Celebration, Greenbelt

November 8, 2025: Baltimore County 3rd Annual Veterans Day Celebration & Resource Fair, Towson University

November 8, 2025: Veterans Day Parade, Baltimore City, Application

November 8, 2025: Towson Football - Hometown Heroes Special, Towson

November 8, 2025: Greenwell Foundation Fundraiser, Boots & BBQ Hoedown, Hollywood

November 8, 2025: Marine Corps Birthday & Congressional Gold Medal Event, Baltimore

November 8, 2025: 7th Annual Green Bowie Veterans Day 5K, Bowie

November 9, 2025: Howard County Veterans Day Parade, Columbia

November 10, 2025: DVNF Veterans Resource Fair, Silver Spring

November 11, 2025: Celebrate Veterans Day at the Edward A. Myerberg Center, Baltimore

November 13, 2025: Martinsburg Vet Center Dedication, Falling Waters, WV

November 15, 2025: DAV Claims Clinic at New Psalmist Church, Baltimore

November 18, 2025: Job Fair, Patuxent River

November 19, 2025: Veterans Service Center Open House & Resource Fair, Frederick

November 19, 2025: Community & Veterans Job Fair, Club Meade, Ft. Meade

Message for New Subscribers:

Is this your first edition of the DVMF newsletter?  If so, welcome!  You are receiving this newsletter because you signed up to receive it from our website or you gave permission to a DVMF program, the MD Motor Vehicle Administration or MD Department of Labor to receive information on VA benefits and resources.  We at DVMF respect your privacy and DO NOT share your email address.  We hope you enjoy receiving our bi-weekly newsletter and find it both educational and engaging.  If you have questions about our Department, our Programs, or your VA benefits, please visit veterans.maryland.gov or call 410-260-3838.