CRESTVIEW — William “Bill” Everett of Baker has been recognized for more than five years’ service to the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
He was chief of staff and then commander of Region IV, encompassing some of the order’s most active departments; he earned the Distinguished Service Award during the order’s annual convention Aug. 10 in Rogers, Ark.
John Bircher, national MOPH public director, cited Everett's concern about the welfare and well-being of all his “troops,” adding, "Everett reaches out, not just to provide guidance, but also to volunteer a helping hand regardless of the time, distance, effort or difficulty of the endeavor.”
Everett has traveled to and assisted a department whose chapters were ravaged by a hurricane or tornado; helped form new chapters in departments whose numbers were diminishing; and assisted all departments in developing new Purple Heart cities, counties and states throughout the Southeast Region.
"Everett’s organizational abilities are legend, including the organization of the 2010 National Convention, numerous events at Eglin Air Force Base to honor POWs and MIAs, Florida’s Fallen Heroes, and First Responder events throughout the region,” Bircher said.
Everett’s efforts to save money and provide early guidance to departments and chapters are recognized in extended leadership and region meetings being held this year after the order's national convention.
"Everett’s performance as Region IV commander has brought great credit to himself and the leadership of the order, as well as honor and distinction to MOPH Region IV and its departments, chapters and members. Patriot Everett's passion for his mission is second to none," Bircher stated.
The organization now known as the Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A. Inc. formed in 1932 for the protection and mutual interest of all combat-wounded veterans and active duty men and women. Their sacrifice earned them the Purple Heart Medal.
With MOPH Service Foundation grants, the MOPH and its Ladies Auxiliary promote patriotism, fraternalism, and preservation of America's military history. They provide comfort and assistance to all veterans and their families, especially those requiring VA claims assistance, those who are homeless, and those requiring employment assistance.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Everett, Baker veteran, earns MOPH’s Distinguished Service Award