MA Office of the Veteran Advocate

Looking to connect with our team or learn about the OVA? 🤝 Scan our QR code or visit the link below to find all our socials, links, and contact info in one accessible place! 💻 bit.ly/m/OVA

May is National National Military Appreciation Month! The OVA proudly recognizes and honors all who have served, and those who continue to serve our country. This month, and every month, we thank you for your service.

May 1st is designated as Silver Star Service Banner Day. Today, we honor the wounded, ill, and injured U.S. combat veterans and their families. This award highlights the sacrifice of those affected by war, often marked by ceremonies and displaying the Silver Star Service Banner.

Monday, April 20th, is officially recognized as Patriots’ Day in the Commonwealth📜 As we celebrate the anniversary of the start of the American Revolution, we honor the patriots from the MA militia who fought & died in these battles for our freedoms.

Have you received your VA Welcome Kit? Whether you are separating or considering using any of the benefits you have earned, this digital reference guide has helpful info for each step of your post-service journey. To download your copy, visit va.gov/welcome-kit/.

Sharing for our friends at USS Constitution! Independence Day Raffle is OPEN! Celebrate America's 250th 🎉 Enter by May 11: docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSdK… #July4thCruise #USSConstitution #IndependenceDay #AmericasNavy250 #USNavy

April 15th is Purple Up Day! Wear 💜 to honor military kids' strength and sacrifices. Join us in support! #PurpleUpDay

USS Constitution’s Independence Day Underway Raffle is NOW OPEN! The raffle closes on May 11, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Winners will be notified by email on May 18, 2026. Click the following link to enter: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAI…

The OVA is hiring! 📣 Our team is looking to hire a Policy & Research Officer to lead office research efforts, analyze policy, & develop recommendations that directly impact veteran care & benefits. More info can be found at our job posting below 👇 indeed.com/job/policy-and…

National Former POW Recognition Day on April 9th honors the courageous men and women who have endured brutal treatment at the hands of their captors. As a result, they've also suffered separation from family and displayed incredible endurance and faith during their captivity.

Are you a military spouse looking for others who understand the journey? The MA Military Spouse Liaison hosts a virtual SpouseSync, providing a space for spouses to connect, chat & provide support. To join the 4/28 session, scan the code or visit meet.google.com/var-umip-sqe.

Today is officially recognized as Gold Star Wives & Spouses Day in the Commonwealth. We honor & recognize the surviving spouses of our service members & veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their strength & resilience continue to be an inspiration for us all ⭐️

Reminder! Parkinson's Awareness Symposium is this Friday, April 3rd, 11 AM–2 PM at Brockton VA campus. Join us to learn about new research, therapies, and support for veterans. #ParkinsonsAwareness @BrocktonVA

Today we recognize National Vietnam War Veterans Day. 53 years ago marked the end of direct military involvement in Vietnam. Each year, we honor all our Vietnam veterans, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. To all who served in Vietnam, TY for your service 🇺🇸

Today, we celebrate National Medal of Honor Day. MA has a long history of Medal of Honor recipients, with over 100 individuals recognized for valor. We extend our deepest gratitude to each and every recipient throughout history for their extraordinary bravery and heroism.

The Central MA Veterans Coalition hosted a networking event with stakeholders to boost veteran support. Hudson VSO spoke about the VSO role within the town/city. Together, we can improve the lives of veterans in our community. Learn more about VSOs: ow.ly/UgbU50YxCe2

Today we honor Rosie the Riveter's spirit—strength, resilience, and the message: women belong everywhere! #RosieTheRiveter #WomensHistory #WeCanDoIt

Today marks the anniversary of the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom. We take a moment to reflect on the lives lost, the service and sacrifice of military members, and the lasting impact on countless families and communities. Their commitment will never be forgotten.

We're hiring! Looking to put your data skills to work in a flexible, part-time role? Join the OVA team as a part-time Data Analyst! Hybrid | Part-time | Flexible hours For more information on how to apply, click on the link below: indeed.com/job/data-analy…

🍀Happy St. Patrick’s Day, everyone! 🍀 Let’s raise a glass to friendship, family, and the joy of togetherness. Don’t forget to wear your green and embrace the magic of this festive season! Cheers! #StPatricksDay #LuckOfTheIrish

Edith Nourse Rogers championed for veterans and women in the military, passing 1.2K+ bills, to include the creation of the Women’s Army Corps, paving the way for women to serve in the U.S. military and the 1944 G.I. Bill, giving veterans access to education and job training.