Disabled American Veterans Chapter 47 had much to celebrate at its monthly meeting at Whidbey Coffee Dec. 1.

Not only was it one of the best-attended meetings in months, the group also welcomed three new members to the organization.

“Maybe we should hold more meetings at Whidbey Coffee,” joked chapter service officer Muggs Monahan, who presided at last Thursday’s meeting.

One of those who joined, retired Navy veteran Jim Cuthbertson of Oak Harbor, said it was the right thing for him to do.

“I’ve been on the DAV lifetime membership rolls for 10 years, but this marked my first meeting at the local chapter,” said Cuthbertson.

“The DAV was so helpful to me, in helping me apply for my benefits. So I really wanted to support their organization, and be a part of what they do here,” he said.

Following the prayer and pledge of allegiance, members approved the November meeting minutes. They witnessed the swearing-in ceremony for the three new members and heard committee reports.

Treasurer Missy Vaughn gave the results of the yearly forget-me-not fund drive held on Veterans Day. Volunteers stationed in front of area businesses accepted donations for DAV that day.

“I’m happy to report to you that we netted over $2,000 this year during our forget-me-not drive,” said Vaughn, “making this our best year ever for that outreach.”

“We also handed out four applications for volunteer van drivers,” she said. The local chapter provides the service to vets needing a ride to VA clinic appointments in Seattle.

Chapter adjutant Michelle McClain reported that she had already mailed out thank-you notes to the host businesses for the fund drive.

McClain also updated the members on legislative developments of interest.

“The ongoing economy and job situation have ushered in a big push on jobs for veterans,” she said. “This has taken on two fronts: job search tools and skill upgrades for veterans.”

McClain reported that tax incentives are making it more attractive for companies to hire veterans.

“Even Microsoft is getting into the act: they will be donating 1,000 vouchers devoted to veterans’ job training over the next two years,” she said.

In other news, chapter treasurer Vaughn applied for a philanthropic grant given by Wal-Mart Stores Inc. to nonprofit organizations. In response to changes recently made to Seaplane base access, chapter officers plan to submit a request to the volunteer services coordinator in Seattle for an off-base parking location for the van.

Chapter 47 will hold its first meeting of the new year Jan. 5 at 7 p.m., at the Oak Harbor Library.