Events Archives - Military Veterans Advocacy

Join MVA for the 2026 Veterans Appreciation Luncheon

Military-Veterans Advocacy invites veterans, military families and community members to attend the 2026 Veterans Appreciation Luncheon in Slidell, Louisiana.

This annual gathering provides an opportunity for the community to come together, recognize the service of America’s veterans and enjoy an afternoon of fellowship.

Event Details

The Veterans Appreciation Luncheon will be held:

Sunday, November 1, 2026
1:00–3:00 p.m.
Slidell Municipal Auditorium
2056 Second Street
Slidell, Louisiana

Admission is free, and attendees will receive a complimentary catered lunch.

Veterans from every branch and era of military service are welcome. Family members, supporters and members of the local community are encouraged to attend as well.

Supporting MVA’s Work for Veterans

The luncheon celebrates veterans while also highlighting Military-Veterans Advocacy’s continuing work on behalf of service members, veterans and their families.

MVA uses litigation, legislation and education to protect veterans’ earned benefits and address barriers within the Department of Veterans Affairs. Community events such as the Veterans Appreciation Luncheon help connect veterans with advocates, resources and fellow members of the military community.

Veterans Appreciation Raffle

MVA will also hold its Veterans Appreciation Raffle in conjunction with the luncheon. The drawing is expected to take place at approximately 2:30 p.m. on November 1.

The prizes are:

First prize: Limited-edition Henry Golden Boy .22 LR rifle commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Second prize: Smith & Wesson Model 66 .357 Combat Magnum
Third prize: $250 cash

Raffle tickets are available for one for $20, five for $80 or six for $100. Winners do not need to be present. The transfer of firearm prizes is subject to all applicable federal and state laws. MVA’s gaming license number is G4201.

Proceeds help MVA continue advocating for veterans through research, education, litigation and legislative outreach.

September 16, 2026/0 Comments/by 550449pwpadmin

Events, Frontpage Article, News

Veterans Law CLE Seminar Coming to Slidell December 7

Military-Veterans Advocacy will present a Continuing Legal Education seminar designed to provide a practical, high-level overview of Veterans Benefits Law.

Navigating the Minefield of Veterans Law will be held Monday, December 7, 2026, at Sedra’s in Slidell, Louisiana.

Attorneys and other legal professionals interested in veterans’ benefits, claims and advocacy are encouraged to reserve their places.

Seminar Details

Date: Monday, December 7, 2026
Registration: 7:30 AM
Program: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Location: Sedra’s
Address: 348 Robert Boulevard, Slidell, Louisiana
CLE credit requested: Seven hours, including one hour of ethics
Lunch: Provided

Navigating Veterans Benefits Law

Veterans Benefits Law involves a specialized system of federal statutes, regulations and administrative procedures.

Veterans and their families may face complicated questions involving service connection, medical evidence, toxic exposure, disability ratings, effective dates and appeals. Legal professionals working in this area must understand both the governing rules and the practical challenges veterans encounter throughout the VA process.

This seminar will provide an overview of Veterans Benefits Law and help participants better understand the legal framework surrounding veterans’ claims and appeals.

Why This Training Matters

The VA benefits system was created to serve veterans, but navigating it can be difficult.

Quality legal education helps attorneys recognize important issues, identify appropriate evidence and understand the procedures that affect a veteran’s claim.

The program is intended to support informed, ethical advocacy while expanding awareness of the legal challenges facing veterans and military families.

Reserve Your Place

Space may be limited. Contact Military-Veterans Advocacy for registration information and seminar availability.

Phone: 985-641-1855
Email: jessica.jordan@mvadvocacy.org

When registering, please provide any requested lunch preferences.

About Military-Veterans Advocacy

Military-Veterans Advocacy is a nonprofit organization that works through litigation, legislation and education to protect the rights and earned benefits of veterans, service members and their families.

MVA’s educational programs help legal professionals, advocates and members of the public better understand veterans’ benefits law and the policies affecting those who served.

September 16, 2026/0 Comments/by 550449pwpadmin

Events, News

Military-Veterans Advocacy Welcomes Devlan Melancon Sr., Esq.

Military-Veterans Advocacy is pleased to welcome Devlan Melancon Sr., Esq. to the MVA team.

A United States Marine Corps veteran, former law-enforcement officer and experienced attorney, Melancon brings a combination of military service, legal knowledge and personal commitment to veterans.

Service in the United States Marine Corps

Melancon is a New Orleans native and proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

During five years of military service, he completed two tours in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was honorably discharged at the rank of sergeant.

His military experience gives him a personal understanding of the sacrifices made by service members and the challenges veterans can encounter after returning to civilian life.

From Law Enforcement to the Practice of Law

Following his military service, Melancon spent eight years as a law-enforcement officer.

While serving his community in that role, he completed both his undergraduate education and law degree through evening programs.

Melancon earned a Bachelor of Science in Business and Marketing Management and a Juris Doctor from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law.

Balancing a demanding career with his education reflects the discipline and dedication he brings to his work.

Legal Experience

Melancon’s professional experience includes:

Veterans law
Criminal law
Civil litigation

This background supports MVA’s commitment to protecting veterans’ rights, strengthening access to earned benefits and addressing legal and policy issues affecting the military and veteran communities.

His experience as a veteran, law-enforcement officer and attorney provides a valuable perspective on public service and advocacy.

Commitment to Veterans and Their Families

Military-Veterans Advocacy works through litigation, legislation and education to address systemic problems affecting veterans, service members and their families.

Melancon joins a team committed to ensuring that veterans receive fair treatment, meaningful representation and recognition of the sacrifices made during military service.

MVA is proud to welcome a fellow veteran whose career reflects a continuing dedication to service.

Meet Devlan and Spark

Melancon is married and the proud parent of two teenagers. His family also includes Spark, his service dog.

MVA looks forward to the experience, perspective and commitment he brings to the organization and its mission.

Please join us in welcoming Devlan Melancon Sr., Esq. to Military-Veterans Advocacy.

June 12, 2026/by 550449pwpadmin