From Staff Reports
This week, Assemblyman Jay Obernolte, R-Hesperia, recognized United States Air Force Captain Bill McDaniel as the 2016 Veteran of the Year for the 33rd Assembly District. McDaniel attended the Veteran of the Year Recognition Luncheon in Sacramento honoring veterans from all 80 Assembly Districts.
“It was a privilege to recognize Captain McDaniel for his courageous service to our country and for his continuing service to the community,” Obernolte said. “Like our other men and women in uniform, Captain McDaniel is a true American hero for putting his life at risk to defend our country and our freedom.”
McDaniel served in the Air Force for 11 years, where he enjoyed a remarkable flying career that included combat tours in Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, North Vietnam, and other missions in Southeast Asia.
Upon completion of the Air Force version of “Top Gun” at the Fighter Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base, his military career came to a precipitous halt when he was hit by a drunk driver and lost his ability to walk.
Over the course of his career, he has received the Silver Star for Gallantry in Action, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, 13 Air Medal Awards, and the Vietnam Service Medal with Oalk Leaf Clusters among many others.
McDaniel has been a resident of the High Desert since 1970. He is a family man and business owner who has dedicated his life to serving his community.
He has served on the Apple Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees and has been active on the Apple Valley Blue Ribbon Water Committee, the Measure W Campaign Committee, and currently serves as the president of the Apple Valley Christian Care Center Foundation.