Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families

06/19/2026

Juneteenth marks a defining moment in American history—the day freedom finally reached the last enslaved people in the United States on June 19, 1865. Officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth honors the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black Americans throughout our nation's history.

For the military community, Juneteenth is also an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of Black service members who have defended our country while advancing the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. From the United States Colored Troops to today's servicemembers, veterans, and military families, their legacy continues to shape our armed forces and our nation.

As we commemorate Juneteenth, we honor those who served, recognize the progress made, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every member of the military-connected community is seen, valued, and supported.

06/18/2026

Stay connected with Maryland’s military-connected community through DVMF's biweekly newsletter. Each issue features the latest DVMF news, upcoming events, benefits and resources, success stories, and highlights from our community partners across the state.

The best way to stay informed is to subscribe and have the newsletter delivered directly to your inbox every two weeks—so you never miss important updates, opportunities, and events supporting Maryland veterans, service members, and military families.

Subscribe and check out the latest issue, here: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDVA/bulletins/41a1883

06/17/2026

Media Hit: On June 12, over 100 attendees, including women veterans from across Maryland, gathered in Baltimore to celebrate Women Veterans Day.

Women veterans are the fastest-growing segment of the veteran population, and it is essential that they feel seen, heard, and connected to the benefits, services, and opportunities they have earned.

WMAR-2 News Baltimore covered the event, including the launch of DVMF's Women Veterans Ambassador Program, which will strengthen outreach and advocacy efforts across our state.

Thank you to our partners, the Maryland Department of Social and Economic Mobility's Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs, and to the Baltimore City Women's Commission and the Baltimore City Veterans Commission.

Read the entire article here:

Baltimore City honored more than 150 women veterans, offering resources and launching a new Women Veterans Ambassador Program.

06/17/2026

On Monday, DVMF joined Governor Wes Moore in Ocean City as he kicked off his two-day Eastern Shore tour with a visit to Diakonia Inc., the only comprehensive provider serving homeless men, women, families, and veterans on Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore.

During the visit, leaders highlighted the future House of Hope expansion, supported by a $700,000 FY27 state investment, and celebrated a $635,000 opioid restitution grant for Diakonia’s mobile recovery unit.

Ensuring veterans have access to safe, stable housing remains a top priority. Through partnerships with organizations like Diakonia, Maryland is expanding resources and strengthening support for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

06/08/2026

DVMF is committed to ensuring that all veterans, service members, and military families feel welcome, supported, and respected.

We proudly provide resources and support for LGBTQIA+ veterans and their families because everyone deserves access to the benefits, services, and community they have earned.

Learn about LGBTQIA+ Veteran Resources at https://veterans.maryland.gov/about-us/initiatives/lgbtqia-veteran-support.

06/05/2026

According to WalletHub's latest rankings, Maryland is the #5 Best State for Military Retirees and ranks #2 in the nation for Quality of Life.

From quality healthcare and education to career opportunities, benefits assistance, and strong community support, Maryland is committed to helping veterans and their families succeed at every stage of life.

Whether you're raising a family, transitioning from military service, or enjoying retirement, Maryland offers the resources and opportunities that help military-connected families thrive.

Learn more by viewing the full study on the DVMF home page under "DVMF By the Numbers" at veterans.maryland.gov.

06/02/2026

DVMF remains focused on advancing policies that strengthen support for veterans, service members, military families, caregivers, and military-connected youth.

A recently published article highlights several military family priorities signed into law this year, including advance school enrollment, improved transfer of education records, expanded support for students with special education needs, and greater school stability for military-connected children.

Read more at DVMF's State Legislation page: https://veterans.maryland.gov/news-events/state-legislation

06/01/2026

On June 12, join us as we celebrate the courage, leadership, and sacrifices of the women who have worn our nation's uniform.

DVMF, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Social and Economic Mobility's Office of Small, Minority & Women Business Affairs, the Baltimore City Women's Commission, and the Baltimore City Veterans Commission, invites women veterans from across Maryland to attend the 2026 Women Veterans Recognition Day Event.

📅 Friday, June 12, 2026
🕘 Check-In: 9:00 a.m. | Program Begins: 9:30 a.m.
📍 Baltimore City War Memorial
101 N. Gay Street, Baltimore, MD 21202

RSVP Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeVSKATzS3fTDeGJIqeL69ovBBjW3x370xk2WlpL_OoztWJnw/viewform

06/01/2026

June is PTSD Awareness Month.

PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, including many veterans, service members, and military families. Raising awareness helps reduce stigma and encourages those who may be struggling to seek support.

If you or someone you know is affected by PTSD, help is available. DVMF is committed to connecting Maryland’s military-connected community with resources, support, and care.

Providers and community members can also access behavioral health resources and training through Maryland’s Governor’s Challenge initiative: https://veterans.maryland.gov/benefits-services/healthcare/governors-challengebehavioral-health-resources

05/30/2026

DVMF celebrated the 50th Anniversary of Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery, Maryland’s first state veterans cemetery and the foundation of our agency. Secretary Ed Rothstein and Secretary Jake Day delivered special remarks and joined veterans, military families, and community members to honor five decades of service, remembrance, and sacrifice. Thank you to all who attended this historic milestone. Additional remarks included: Delegate Thomas S. Hutchinson, District 37B, and a representative from the Office of Congressman Andy Harris, Maryland 1st District.