Selma Opens Doors To Veterans Group In Need Of A New Home

JOHNSTON COUNTY, N.C. — After more than a decade in Smithfield, the Johnston County Disabled American Veterans chapter has found a new home — and a warm welcome — in Selma.

Since 2010, the local DAV chapter has met at a house at 1500 Buffalo Road. But recently, the group learned it would need to relocate to make way for a new baseball stadium being built by the Town of Smithfield for the Smithfield Tobs minor league team.

Facing the unexpected move, the volunteer organization reached out to neighboring Selma for help.

Town leaders responded quickly.

During its March meeting, the Selma Town Council approved a plan to provide space for the DAV inside the town’s Parks and Recreation Building, formerly the Head Start facility. Mayor Byron McAllister announced the agreement, which allows the veterans group to continue its mission serving those who have served.

“We are excited to welcome Johnston County DAV Chapter #44 to Selma, NC,” said Mayor McAllister. “The DAV is a wonderful addition for our veteran community that includes American Legion Post #141 and VFW Post #5955.  As our Johnston County communities adjust to growth and change, we are proud to be able to provide a home for this invaluable community institution.”

Under the new lease, the DAV will pay $1 per year for use of the space — a symbolic cost that reflects the town’s support for local veterans.

The arrangement mirrors the group’s previous agreement in Smithfield, where the town also leased space to the DAV for $1 annually.

For members of the Johnston County DAV, the move marks not just a change in location, but a continuation of community support and a place to call home.