About The Website
The Disabled American Veterans Chapter 53 in Des Moines, Iowa, is committed to advocating for and assisting disabled American veterans. Join us in our initiatives of support, contribution, and active involvement in enhancing the community for those who have served.
DAV’s Mission Statement
We are dedicated to a single purpose: empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. We accomplish 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.
chapter 53 officers 2025-2026
KEEPING OUR PROMISE TO AMERICA’S VETERANS
Gary Schmerbeck
Commander
Bill Burch
Senior Vice Commander
Jame Christiansen
Treasurer
Cheryl Kieffer
CSO/Benefits Protection Team Leader
Earl Comstock
1st Junior Vice Commander
Vern Guthrie
Chaplain/Judge Advocate
Harold "Will" Johnson
Sergeant-At-Arms
John Shimko
Adjutant
testimonials
KEEPING OUR PROMISE TO AMERICA’S VETERANS
Advocating for Veterans Everywhere
For more than 100 years, DAV has been a strong and influential advocate for veterans’ rights and benefits. We are committed to fighting for America’s more than 4.7 million disabled veterans, representing veterans on Capitol Hill, and getting legislation enacted that protects our nation’s heroes and their families. Nearly 1 million members give DAV a powerful voice to make sure veterans are heard.
