Today’s #VeteranOfTheDay is Navy World War II and Vietnam War Veteran William Stewart Jr.

The son of an Army colonel, William’s own military career spanned two wars and more than 30 years. He enlisted as a Hospital Corpsman for the Navy in 1943, after one semester of college. His first assignment was serving as an Ambulance Driver at Advance Base Depot Port Hueneme until the end of World War II.

William then transitioned into the Naval Reserves as a Gunnery Officer while he pursued his education through dental school. He returned to active duty as a Dental Corps Officer and for the following decade worked on board various Navy ships and onshore base dental clinics.

In 1966, William was deployed to South Vietnam with his unit, the 3rd Dental Company, 3rd Marine Division. He completed two tours in Vietnam.

After retiring from the Navy, William has remained active in various community organizations. He is a Distinguished Advisor for the Port Hueneme Citizens Advisory Committee, and a member of the Mason and Shrine Legion of Honor. He is also an enthusiastic bass singer and recently his 66th wedding anniversary with his wife.

Thank you for your service, William!


Nominate a Veteran for #VeteranOfTheDay

Do you want to light up the face of a special Veteran? Have you been wondering how to tell your Veteran they are special to you? You’re in luck! VA’s #VeteranOfTheDay social media feature is an opportunity to highlight your Veteran and his/her service.

It’s easy to nominate a Veteran. All it takes is an email to newmedia@va.gov with as much of the information as you can put together with some good photos. Visit our blog post about nominating for how to create the best submission.


Graphic By Kierra Willis: Kierra Willis is a Graphic Communication Major at the University of Maryland University College. She currently has an AAS in Graphic Design and Visual Communications.

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