LAS VEGAS (August 7, 2012) — Larry A. Polzin, a service-connected Vietnam-era veteran, was elected DAV’s National Commander at the organization’s 91st National Convention in Las Vegas.

“As National Sr. Vice Commander, Polzin showed solid leadership skills and a strong vision for the organization,” said Arthur H. Wilson, DAV’s National Adjutant and CEO. “We look forward to advancing the organization and achieving our strategic goals under his leadership.”

Polzin joined the U.S. Marine Corps following high school graduation in eastern Colorado. After boot camp, he was assigned to the 1st Marine Division, 1st Engineer Battalion, Camp Pendleton, Calif. He continued to serve until his medical discharge in 1966.

Polzin has been actively involved in veterans’ issues at the state and national levels throughout his career. In 1972, he joined DAV’s professional staff as a National Service Officer in Los Angeles. He was promoted to Assistant Supervisor of the L.A. National Service Office, and continued his work as an NSO for more than 25 years until retiring in 1998. A life member of Chapter 73, Woodland Hills, Calif., since joining in 1971, Polzin has served as department-level Jr. Vice Commander, Sr. Vice Commander and was unanimously elected as State Commander in 1996.

“It’s an honor to lead an organization committed to empowering our nation’s injured and ill veterans and their families,” said DAV National Commander Larry A. Polzin. “I will do my best every single day to help DAV fulfill its worthy mission.”

DAV empowers veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. It is dedicated to a single purpose: fulfilling our promises to the men and women who served. DAV does this by ensuring that veterans and their families can access the full range of benefits available to them; fighting for the interests of America’s injured heroes on Capitol Hill; and educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life. DAV, a non-profit organization with 1.2 million members, was founded in 1920 and chartered by the U. S. Congress in 1932. Learn more at www.dav.org.

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