BRONX, N.Y. — Veteran Action Now is calling on veterans, military families, community leaders, and supporters to stand in solidarity with those who have served the nation by attending a press conference on Saturday, July 4, in response to comments the organization says unfairly disparaged America’s veterans.
The press conference will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. outside the Bronx County Supreme Court, located at 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York.
According to Veteran Action Now, the event was organized following remarks attributed to Darializa Avila Chevalier that reportedly characterized veterans as perpetrators of “war crimes.” The organization says such statements are offensive, divisive, and disrespectful to the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Other news outlets have reported other social media posts attributed to Darializa Avila Chevalier that described U.S. veterans as “child murderers”. One post widely reported by the media stated:
“You may even get a free trip to Europe soon. Might as well. If you make it back, get the cardboard box they give vets as a reward for war crimes and chill after that.”
“Veterans answered the call to defend this country and uphold the Constitution,” Veteran Action Now said in a statement. “They deserve respect, not contempt. Language that mocks their sacrifice or paints all who served with the same broad and hateful brush has no place in public life.”
Organizers say the July 4 gathering is intended to send a clear message that attacks on the character and integrity of veterans will not go unanswered. They describe the event as both a public rebuke of anti-veteran rhetoric and a demonstration of support for veterans throughout the Bronx, New York City, and across the country.
Veteran Action Now is encouraging veterans, military families, elected officials, faith leaders, community organizations, and members of the public to attend and stand together in defense of those who have worn the nation’s uniform.
The organization says the issue extends beyond a single controversial statement.
“For Veteran Action Now, this moment is bigger than one statement,” the organization said. “It is about drawing a clear line against rhetoric that dishonors those who served and reinforcing a basic principle: veterans must be treated with dignity, gratitude, and truth.”
Event Information
What: Veteran Action Now Press Conference
Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451 (Bronx County Supreme Court)
Who Should Attend: Veterans, military families, advocates, elected officials, faith leaders, community organizations, and supporters.
For additional information, contact Veteran Action Now Founder and CEO Kevin C. Meggett at 614-735-5713 or Kevincmeggett@gmail.com.
A multifaceted personality, Damon is an activist, author, and the force behind Black Westchester Magazine, a notable Black-owned newspaper based in Westchester County, New York. With a wide array of expertise, he wears many hats, including that of a Spiritual Life Coach, Couples and Family Therapy Coach, and Holistic Health Practitioner. He is well-versed in Mental Health First Aid, Dietary and Nutritional Counseling, and has significant insights as a Vegan and Vegetarian Nutrition Life Coach. Not just limited to the world of holistic health and activism, Damon brings with him a rich 32-year experience as a Law Enforcement Practitioner and stands as the New York Representative of Blacks in Law Enforcement of America.
