Robbie Myers named 2015 Outstanding Disabled American Veteran (DAV) of the Year

as posted by DAV (Disabled American Veterans)
Washington, D.C. DAV (Disabled American Veterans) has named Robbie Myers, a combat-injured Army veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, as the 2015 Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year.

Myers, trained as chef in the Army, brought national attention to veterans’ issues, namely post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), when he competed on the Food Network’s cooking show “Chopped.” He is now working to host a new military-themed cooking series, “Come and Get It,” which features an all-veteran cast and crew and donates proceeds to veterans organizations.

During his service, Myers received the Army Commendation Medal with Valor for actions above and beyond the call of duty in protecting his fellow soldiers during a firefight. Myers was, for one of his two tours in Afghanistan, stationed in the storied Korengal Valley, an outpost at which 42 Americans died and hundreds wounded between 2006 and 2009.

Myers was presented the award by DAV at the organization's 94th National Convention at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel on Aug. 8.

“Robbie is an inspiring example of how, armed with the right tools, our veterans can overcome great obstacles in order to succeed in their post-military lives,” said Hope. “He sought help when it was needed, and focused his efforts on creating a fulfilling life for himself and his family. The compassion he shows for other veterans and his work to help them find success is truly the hallmark of this award, and we’re very proud of what he’s doing for this community.”

Having sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the lingering effects of PTSD, Myers struggled with a difficult transition from military to civilian life. Now he is dedicated to using his new television show as a platform to aid others who are facing similar challenges.

“We’re going to do everything in our power to be completely staffed with veterans,” said Myers. “You don’t hear the good stories about veterans, or you hear about the struggles and you don’t hear about the victories. We’re really going to put veterans on the map for the good. We’re going to highlight veteran-owned businesses and really expose the world to some of the finest men and women this country has to offer.”

Myers and his wife Jamie currently live in Adams, N.Y., with their six children. He is now the executive chef for a restaurant in nearby Clayton, N.Y.

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