Chicago–(ENEWSPF)–February 20, 2013. The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA) honors Country Club Hills resident M. Michael Williams, a US Marine Corps veteran, as Illinois Veteran of the Month for February 2013.
Williams was honored today during a ceremony at the Office of the Mayor, Country Club Hills, Ill., with family and friends in attendance. The Veteran of the Month award is presented to veterans who continue to serve their communities after leaving the military and make a real difference in the lives of others.
“Mike Williams is a great example of our veterans and the value they add to our communities,” said IDVA Assistant Director Rodrigo Garcia. “For nearly 40 year, he has sought opportunities and ways to help other veterans and to make a positive difference in his community and for his fellow vets. His dedication and continued volunteer service to our veterans have been invaluable.”
Williams’ personal and professional achievements include:
- as a Public Education Administrator for over 20 years, teaching and helping schools throughout the country install voice, video and data systems; by serving on the Metropolitan Tenants’ Organization Board, helping veterans and other renters with housing issues; and by working as a Volunteer Income Tax Assistant.
- Exemplary professional performance and commitment to the veteran community through volunteer activities, including developing informational resources for veterans regarding available dental assistance; as a liaison between veterans and service organizations; raising funds by establishing the first Disabled American Walk in the State of Virginia; and continuously advocating for housing and assistance for homeless veterans.
- Williams earned numerous awards and decorations for his service in the Marines, including the National Defense Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal.
About Veteran of the Month
The Veteran of the Month award highlights the work of community servants who are also military veterans. Each month the Department recognizes a different person or group that contributes to communities across the state of Illinois. To nominate a veteran for consideration, please visit IDVA’s website at veterans.illinois.gov to obtain guidelines and a nomination form.
Source: illinois.gov
