As Maryland commemorates America's 250th anniversary, the Maryland 250 Commission is leading a statewide effort to highlight the people, places, and events that have shaped our state's history and contributions to our nation. Veterans, service members, and military families are an essential part of that story. Under Governor Moore's authorization, this commemoration honors the generations of Marylanders whose service and sacrifice have defended our freedoms and strengthened our nation.

As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, I encourage Maryland's military-connected community to take pride in your service and the legacy you continue to build. Help ensure your story becomes part of Maryland's 250th commemoration by sharing your military or family story through the Maryland 250 website or by participating in a commemorative event in your community.

Whether you gather with family, attend a local celebration, or take time to reflect on our nation's history, the Fourth of July is a reminder of the enduring values of duty, service, and patriotism that unite us.

On behalf of the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families, thank you for your service to our state and nation. I wish you and your loved ones a safe and meaningful Independence Day.

Life is good!

Sincerely,
Ed Rothstein

On June 26, Deputy Secretary Jimmy Anderson served as the keynote speaker at the National Civics Bee® Maryland State Finals held at the Fluegel Alumni Center in Anne Arundel County. The competition brings together middle school students from across the state to demonstrate their civic knowledge and present solutions to community challenges. State finalists competed for scholarships, prizes, and the opportunity to advance to the national competition in Washington, D.C.

On June 25, Secretary Ed Rothstein presented 108-year-old World War II veteran Charles "Charlie" Phelps with a Governor's Citation in recognition of his service to our nation. Mr. Phelps, a resident of Severna Park in Anne Arundel County, represents the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of the Greatest Generation, and DVMF is honored to celebrate his remarkable life and military service.

On June 20, Charlotte Hall Veterans Home residents enjoyed a day at the NAS Patuxent River Air Show in St. Mary's County. Thank you to the Fleet & Family Support Center, Natalie, CPO Henson, and the command teams at FRCMA Detachment Patuxent River and COMFRC for making this memorable experience possible.

On June 12, DVMF along with Governor Wes Moore, visited Diakonia Inc., located in West Ocean City in Worcester County, the only comprehensive provider serving homeless men, women, families, and veterans on Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore. The visit highlighted the future House of Hope expansion, supported by a $700,000 state investment, and a $635,000 opioid restitution grant for Diakonia's mobile recovery unit. 

Hiring Our Heroes is bringing its Skilled Trades Academy construction pathway to Maryland, creating new career opportunities for veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses.

Additional program details will be available soon. Be sure to save the date for the Fort George G. Meade Career Summit on August 25, 2026, where job seekers can connect with employers and explore career opportunities.

Warrior Canine Connection is looking for volunteers to help raise future service dogs for veterans. Puppy raisers provide a loving home and help service dogs in training develop the skills they need to support veterans and military families.

Volunteer opportunities are available for a variety of lifestyles and schedules, with training, food, veterinary care, equipment, and ongoing support provided at no cost. No prior dog experience is required—just a commitment to learning and consistency.

Interested in getting involved? Attend an upcoming information session or contact volunteer@warriorcanineconnection.org. Veterans, service members, and their immediate family members may also learn more about Warrior Canine Connection’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery programs by emailing MBTR@warriorcanineconnection.org.

Maryland Department of Transportation's monthly video brief is back! Catch the latest transportation updates, including National Safety Month, Purple Line progress, Bay Bridge traffic improvements, Airshow Baltimore, small business grants, and more.