Our Mission
We are Robert L. Cochran, Jr. Chapter 82 — Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Our mission is simple: to ensure every veteran and family member receives the benefits, care, and respect they earned through service to our nation.
Meet Our TeamOur Reach
While home is in Charlotte County, veterans and families we serve come from across Southwest Florida — north to Bradenton, south to Naples, and east to Arcadia and Lehigh Acres.
DAVRLC doesn’t go out to find clients; veterans hear about our services and come to us for help navigating benefits, appeals, and critical transitions.
Our Story
Founded in honor of PFC Robert L. Cochran, Jr., U.S. Marine Corps — who gave his life in the Marianas Islands on July 8, 1944 — Chapter 82 carries his legacy of courage and service forward. From early days on Tamiami Trail to our current home at the Port Charlotte Town Center Mall, our all-volunteer team has adapted to meet growing needs: rebuilding after Hurricane Charley, expanding training, and scaling assistance as more veterans sought our help.
What We Do
Service Officer Program
Free benefits assistance, claims guidance, and appeals support by trained Chapter Service Officers.
Community Outreach
Collaborating with local partners, agencies, and schools to connect veterans with resources and belonging.
Events & Fellowship
Hosting socials, briefings, and drives that strengthen veteran families and the wider community.
Our Leadership
DAV Chapter 82 is led by an all-volunteer corps of veterans and community partners elected or appointed to carry our mission forward.
Chapter Officers
- Commander: Dave Grant
- Senior Vice Commander: Annamarie Remmel
- Junior Vice Commander: Jeff Largent
- Treasurer: Gus Pellegrino
- Adjutant: Roger Nichols
- Judge Advocate: Jim Sessa
- Chaplain: Joe Cuocci
- Sergeant-at-Arms: Sheriff Jerry Massey
Appointees & Key Roles
- Chief Service Officer: Pete Whisenant
- Chief Training Officer: Joe Rapley
- Veterans Service Center Chair: Jerry Massey
- Benefits Protection: Jeff Largent
- Public Relations & Social Media: Ashley Abbott
- Bulletin Preparation: Ashley Abbott
- Bulletin Production: DAV Auxiliary (Vicki Grant)
- Quartermaster: Dave Rife
- Chapter Historian: Rob Olson
- IT Manager: Dave Busi
Committees & Representatives
- CCVC Representatives: Ashley Abbott & Annamarie Remmel
- Finance Committee: Rob Olson, Jim Sessa & Charles York
- Nominating Committee: Pete Whisenant, Dave Busi, Mike Schmitz & Brian Roman
- Community Affairs:
- 1st Year – Brian Roman
- 2nd Year – Mike Schmitz
- 3rd Year – Dave Busi
Leadership roster current per Chapter records.
Join Us / Get Involved
Whether you served in WWII or the Global War on Terror, you belong here. Membership in DAV means connection, advocacy, and lifelong support.