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Biweekly Newsletter - May 1, 2026
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Message from Secretary Rothstein
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May is Military Appreciation Month—a time to recognize the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform and the families who support them.
This month is personal for me. Having served in the United States Army, I carry deep respect and gratitude for my comrades and military professional peers whose dedication and teamwork shaped my life and leadership.
I am also grateful to lead the dedicated team at the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families. Every day, I see professionals who serve with compassion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to helping others.
I am most appreciative of the opportunity to do a job each day that helps Maryland’s veterans and their families thrive and access the benefits and resources they deserve. I am especially proud of the care and customer service our team provides to help individuals and families navigate life’s transitions.
I extend my sincere appreciation to our veterans, service members, military families, caregivers, and the DVMF team. Your service and commitment inspire us, and it is an honor to serve alongside you.
So, in honor of Military Appreciation Month, I invite you to watch a recent video clip featuring Governor Moore and me as we recognize the improved rating at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home and reaffirm our shared commitment to leaving no one behind. We celebrate progress, partnership, and our continued commitment to ensuring every veteran receives the care, respect, and support they deserve.
Sincerely,
Ed Rothstein
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DVMF Highlights
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On April 30, Deputy Secretary Jimmy Anderson spoke to graduating high school seniors at the Our Community Salutes Central Maryland Enlistee Recognition Ceremony. These students are members of the Class of 2026 who have committed to enlisting in the United States Armed Forces after graduation.
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On April 28, House Bill 270—the Military Family Inclusion Act was signed into law, strengthening support for Maryland’s military-connected community. The new law updates membership on key state boards and commissions to ensure veterans, service members, caregivers, and military-connected youth have a stronger voice in decisions that shape programs and services that affect their lives. This milestone reflects the power of partnership and collaboration. Thank you to the organizations, leaders, advocates, and the dedicated DVMF team whose commitment to service made this progress possible.
On April 28, Secretary Ed Rothstein spoke at the Veterans Appreciation Dinner hosted by the Freedom District Lions Club. Veterans, club members, and friends gathered to support and recognize those who have served our nation.
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 On April 27, Veterans Benefits Specialist II Jermaine Wesley, recently helped reunite a military family with a treasured symbol of courage—an original 1944 Silver Star medal. The Silver Star is the nation’s third-highest military decoration for gallantry in action, awarded to service members who demonstrate extraordinary bravery in combat.
Through his dedication and persistence, Jermaine located the family of World War II Veteran Mr. Lester A. Marks and coordinated the return of the medal to his daughter, Ms. Mary Marks, during her recent visit to Baltimore. For Ms. Marks, receiving her father’s medal was a deeply meaningful moment and an opportunity to share stories of his service and legacy.
On April 25, the inaugural Act of Valor Youth Basketball Classic was hosted at Annapolis Area Christian School, bringing together young athletes, veterans, and military families in a way that felt both meaningful and inspiring.
Deputy Secretary Jimmy Anderson delivered remarks at the event, recognizing the importance of community, teamwork, and supporting the next generation. The day was filled with energy, connection, and strong community support.
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Deputy Secretary Jimmy Anderson was interviewed on Veterans SITREP Podcast, that aired on April 16. Topics from connecting veterans and their families to benefits and health care to burial services across the state was highlighted.
The program airs every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. on WHFC 91.1 FM.
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Women veterans, take time for yourself—you’ve earned it. Join us on June 11, 2026, for a day dedicated to reflection, renewal, and connection with fellow women who understand your journey. Register for the One-Day Women Veterans Retreat and invest in your well-being, community, and continued strength.
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Core Programs and Initiatives
Learn how our core programs and initiatives—work together to support veterans, service members, and military families across Maryland—from helping individuals access earned federal and state benefits through the Service and Benefits Program, to providing long-term care and memory support at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, honoring service through our state veterans Cemetery and Memorial Program, expanding our Communications, Outreach, & Advocacy Program efforts statewide, and offering critical financial assistance through the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund when families need it most.
Donate to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund
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Maryland Joins Forces News
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Maryland Joins Forces' mission is to unite public and private partners to foster innovative solutions to challenges facing our military connected community. Through intentional collaboration, we empower veterans, service members, and their families with the support they deserve, building a community where no one is left behind. Visit, Maryland Joins Forces.
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On May 5, the University of Maryland Global Campus will host its annual MilVet Networking and Resource Fair in Adelphi. This no-cost event connects service members, veterans, and families with employers, resources, a VA Claims Clinic, and career support. Free parking, dinner, and registration are available. |
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State and Federal News and Events
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Veterans, service members, and their families are invited to register for the upcoming Veterans Benefits Fair on May 14, at the Edgewood Recreation & Community Center in Harford County.
This community event brings together federal, state, and community partners to help veterans take full advantage of the benefits they’ve earned. Attendees can schedule one-on-one assistance to file or update a claim, enroll in VA health care, and connect with local resource providers—all in one convenient location. Space is limited, and appointments are required.
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The Office of Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth will host upcoming Service Academy Nomination Forums on May 5 and May 21, to help students and families learn about the process of applying to the nation’s military service academies.
These two sessions hosted in Maryland, will offer an opportunity to ask questions, hear directly from academy representatives, and better understand the steps required to pursue a path of military service and leadership. Families, educators, and community partners are encouraged to share this opportunity with students who are interested in serving our nation.
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State Agencies
Moore-Miller Administration Launches Maryland’s Youth Digital Wellness Playbook to Support Youth Mental Health Online- Office of Governor Wes Moore
State Park Day Use Area Admission Fee Waivers- Maryland Department of Natural Resources
How to Apply for Benefits- Department of Veterans and Military Families
Veteran Services - Workforce Development & Adult Learning- Department of Labor
Maryland’s Commitment to Veterans- Behavioral Health Administration
Expedited Processing for Veterans- Department of Education
Veterans Benefits Offices- Motor Vehicle Administration
Special Rates for Military-Connected Communities- Department of Natural Resources
Federal Agencies
VA announces major improvements in benefits processing and delivery
Free legal & financial planning assistance for VA caregivers
U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Veterans Business Development
U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization
Opening up about what you’re going through can make it easier to find support and prevent a crisis before it happens. Whenever you need to talk, the Veterans Crisis Line is here to listen. Dial 988 then Press 1, chat at http://VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text 838255.
Community Calendar
To stay informed about upcoming community events, resource fairs, and outreach activities, visit DVMF's events page. Information is updated regularly.
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 Motor Vehicle Administration or Department of Labor to receive information on VA benefits and resources. DVMF respects your privacy and does not share your email address. If you have questions about our Department, our Programs, or your VA benefits, please visit veterans.maryland.gov or call 410-260-3838.
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Newsletter Information Disclaimer
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.
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