In 2019, an incredible journey commenced under the leadership of Retired U.S. Air Force Command Chief Master Sergeant William Markham. With an unwavering commitment to the principles of service, he, alongside a dedicated team of legal and medical professionals, set out on a mission that would positively impact the lives of numerous veterans. This mission, Project One Vet @ A Time (POVAT), bore the unmistakable marks of his distinguished 30-year military career, encompassing tactical, operational, and strategic leadership.
During his illustrious tenure in the U.S. Air Force, CCM(R) Markham consistently demonstrated his unwavering dedication, frequently deploying in support of critical missions and earning numerous accolades. Yet, it was not only his service record that defined him but also his inspirational journey that shaped him into the noble individual he is today. As a young boy, when asked about his aspirations for the future, Will's response remained a constant guiding light: "I just want to take care of people." These principles propelled him to dedicate the past two decades to raising funds for veterans and their families, with steadfast support from his community.
Project OVAT's primary objective is to offer legal and medical assistance to veterans navigating the intricate Department of Veterans Affairs disability claim process. They shoulder the burden of bills, expenses, and fees to ensure veterans receive the benefits they have rightfully earned. The transition from military service and the process of filing a disability claim with the VA can be an overwhelming experience. Project OVAT confronts this challenge head-on, connecting veterans with a nationwide network of representatives and experts proficient in navigating the VA bureaucracy. Their professional advocates simplify the process by applying current law, relevant legislation, regulations, and medical histories, even pursuing hearings before the VA and the Board of Veterans Appeals when necessary.
In September 2023, the U.S. Air Force Academy sophomore class of 2026 made history by selecting an enlisted airman as their Exemplar. The Class of 2026 chose Medal of Honor recipient Master Sergeant John A. Chapman, marking the first-ever enlisted Exemplar and the first-ever Special Tactics Airman to be chosen. The Exemplar Committee successfully advocated for Chapman's recognition based on his "significant contribution to airpower."
Interestingly, the annual Air Force Falcons vs. Army Black Knights showdown, renowned for its intense competition and unwavering dedication, is poised to become more than just a football game this year. The Combat Control Foundation will present the MSgt John A. Chapman Service Before Self Award to Retired U.S. Air Force Command Chief Master Sergeant William "CM" Markham, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to the United States Air Force Special Tactics community and the veteran population.
CCM(R) Markham has displayed extraordinary dedication to service and his fellow service members. He was the first Airman in Afghanistan following the World Trade Center attacks, and his courageous actions earned him the Silver Star Medal, the third-highest military decoration for valor in combat. Throughout his distinguished Air Force career, Markham embodied unwavering commitment to his lifelong aspiration to 'take care of people.' He was guided by the mottos 'Freedom to maneuver' and 'Always find the way to YES,' dedicating the past two decades to serving veterans and their families after his military service.
The MSgt John A. Chapman Service Before Self Award, named after the heroic actions of Medal of Honor recipient Master Sergeant John A. Chapman, pays tribute to exceptional individuals who exemplify the core values of the Air Force, prioritizing service over personal interests and demonstrating selflessness and dedication in their actions. CCM(R) Markham's unwavering commitment to this ethos makes him a highly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
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