DAV Chapter 47 Big Spring

Today, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 47 proudly recognized Martin County Hospital for its outstanding support of local Veterans during the chapter's monthly meeting on July 20, 2026.

Nancy Cooke, accepting on behalf of Martin County Hospital, received a special DAV Appreciation Plaque from the Chapter 47 Commander Mike Tarpley in recognition of the hospital's generous donation of two RV campers, which have since been repurposed to provide much-needed support for area Veterans.

Partnerships like this demonstrate the incredible impact communities can have when they come together to serve those who have served our nation. Thank you to Nancy Cooke, Martin County Hospital, and DAV Chapter 47 for your continued commitment to our Veterans and the communities they call home.

The Big Spring – O’Neal – Kunkle Chapter 47 DAV was proud to recognize two outstanding community partners during our May Chapter meeting — 345 Exotic Game Ranch and the Big Spring United Way — for their continued support and dedication to our Veterans and the DAV mission.

Chapter Commander Mike Tarpley presented custom plaques and signs as a token of appreciation for their long-time commitment to serving those who served. Partnerships like these help strengthen our community and ensure Veterans continue to receive the support and recognition they deserve.

Thank you to both organizations for standing beside our Veterans and the DAV family! 🇺🇸

United Way of Big Spring and Howard County

🇺🇸 Honoring Service, One Stitch at a Time 🇺🇸

Members of the O’Neal Kunkle DAV Chapter 47 recently had the privilege of presenting a Quilt of Valor to Vietnam Veteran Hugh Schafer in recognition of his honorable service in the United States Army.

The Quilts of Valor Foundation mission is simple yet powerful: to cover service members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor. Each quilt represents gratitude from a grateful nation and serves as a lasting reminder that their service and sacrifice are never forgotten.

Mr. Schafer’s dedication and service during the Vietnam era reflect the courage and commitment demonstrated by so many who answered the call. DAV Chapter 47 members were proud to recognize him and thank him personally for his service to our country.

Please join us in congratulating and thanking Hugh Schafer for his service and sacrifice.

🇺🇸 Welcome home, and thank you for your service. 🇺🇸

📸 Honoring Community Support for Our Veterans 🇺🇸

We were proud to witness DAV Chapter 47 of Big Spring Commander Mike Tarpley present a plaque to Forsan ISD in recognition of their unwavering support of West Texas Veterans and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

A special thank you to Amanda Duforat, Forsan ISD teacher, whose dedication and coordination between the school and DAV Chapter 47 has helped make these meaningful partnerships possible. Your leadership continues to inspire students and strengthen our veteran community.

We also extend our appreciation to Forsan ISD leadership, including Cory Richardson, Forsan High School Principal, and Carrie Averette, Forsan Elementary Principal, for their continued commitment to honoring those who served. Thank you as well to Mike Averette, Justice of the Peace, for supporting this important recognition.

Forsan ISD’s ongoing efforts — from Veterans Day fundraisers to student-led initiatives — demonstrate what true community partnership looks like. Together, we are making a lasting impact for those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. 💙🇺🇸

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🇺🇸 Community in Action for Our Veterans 🇺🇸

The Big Spring, Texas Chapter 47 of the Disabled American Veterans proudly teamed up with Warrior Bonfire to support the first-ever Warrior Bonfire Quail Hunting retreat in West Texas.

Since 2013, Warrior Bonfire has been dedicated to creating meaningful outdoor retreats that connect combat-wounded Veterans through camaraderie, healing, and shared experiences. To date, they’ve hosted events in 30 states and Puerto Rico, making a lasting impact on Veterans and their families across the nation.

This inaugural West Texas hunt is a powerful example of what happens when strong Veteran organizations come together with a shared mission—supporting those who have sacrificed so much. We’re honored to capture these moments of fellowship, gratitude, and resilience in this photo book.