Virtual meeting will focus on partnership, referrals, and 2027 opportunities for Virgin Islands veterans and the diaspora

BURKE, Va., October 5, 2026 — The Virgin Islands Veterans Association (VIVA) will welcome Patrick D. Farrell, Director of the U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) and Senior Vice President of the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA), as the featured guest at VIVA Speaks and its Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time via Microsoft Teams.

Director Farrell leads the territory’s efforts to connect veterans and their families with benefits, health care, and support services. In March 2026, he was elected unopposed as Senior Vice President of NASDVA, the national association of state and territorial veterans affairs directors, after previously serving as Junior Vice President. His dual role gives Virgin Islands veterans a strong voice both at home and in national veterans policy.

The meeting will focus on:
•Introducing VIVA: VIVA’s mission, Board of Directors, and its role in complementing, not duplicating, the services of the Office of Veterans Affairs.
•Referral and coordination: a simple framework for VIVA and the OVA to refer veterans and share information, while respecting each organization’s statutory role.
•2027 NASDVA Midwinter Conference in Arlington, Virginia, in March 2027 and the association’s conference planned for St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
•Clipper 2027–28 Round the World Yacht Race.

“Director Farrell has been a steadfast advocate for Virgin Islands veterans at home and across the nation,” said Alvin Dalmida, Secretary of VIVA. “We are honored to welcome him and look forward to building a partnership that helps our veterans and their families connect with the services and opportunities they have earned.”

VIVA members, veterans, military families, and community partners who wish to attend may request the Microsoft Teams link by emailing veteransusvi@gmail.com with “October 8 Board Meeting” in the subject line.

About VIVA
The Virgin Islands Veterans Association, Inc. (VIVA) is a Virginia nonstock nonprofit corporation established on April 2, 2026, to serve all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, with special emphasis on veterans from or residing in the U.S. Virgin Islands and those in its mainland diaspora. Guided by the values of Honor, Service, and Community, VIVA connects veterans with resources, strengthens community partnerships, and honors their service and legacy. Learn more at veteransvi.org.

Photo Courtesy of: Virgin Islands Government