The local chapter of the Disabled American Veterans (Crow Wing County No. 22) began organizing in 1947 and received its charter from the national organization in August of 1948 with 33 charter members enrolled. The Auxiliary began in 1951.

Frank Barstow was first commander, also serving as Department commander in 1958, and as 10th District National Committeeman, 1959-60.

The organization met at several locales -- the VFW, Ransford hotel and presently at the American Legion hall. It incorporated in January of 1950 to provide a systematic program of aid and assistance to veterans and their dependents.

A parcel of land on Cinosam near Brainerd was donated to the DAV by Charles Funk in memory of a nephew killed in World War II. The land has been improved, is part of the Village of Nisswa with an area set aside for a convalescent home.

Proceeds from the DAVs principal source, the annual sale of "forget-me-nots", goes to aid the disabled veterans who make them as well as in other forms of assistance to veterans and their families.

Following Barstow as commander have been 19 other men, some serving more than once. Bill Van Essen, who was commander in 1948, has been treasurer for 21 years. Joe OToole is present commander.

Meryl Steece served out the term of Walter Swift, who died during his term as commander, and was also Department commander from 1963 to 1969. Verr Osell, local commander in 1954 was a District vice commander on three different occasions, and Harvey Mattson, 1952 local commander, was chief of staff in 1966 and Senior Department vice commander the following year.

The first officers in the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary were installed April 15, 1951, with Alta Carter Hazuka as commander and Bloomie Nilson as adjutant. The DAV chapter contributed $10 to open the Auxiliary's treasury.

Meetings were held in the VFW hall with 32 members making up the charter group. Since Mrs. Hazuka, 12 women have served as commanders, some more than once, with Gladys Schiel the present commander. There are eight Gold Star Mothers in the group.

Two DAV Auxiliary members were elected to state offices-- Mrs. Barstow, commander in 1967, and Mrs. Osell, chaplain in 1969-70. Seven others have held appointive state posts.

The Auxiliary assists the DAV in its projects, including the for-get-me-not sale annually, providing wheel chairs and crutches for veterans and families, contributions to funds and community service programs, such as Red Cross ditty bags, therapeutic camp on Sylvan lake and others.