Philadelphia native and honorably discharged Marine veteran Bill Clark is the new National Commander of AMVETS. He is a true man of the people, running a contracting business for over 30 years since leaving the Marine Corps.
The new commander served in the military for 14 years, and in those 14 years he served his country proud. Whether he was on active or reserve duty, Commander Clark always made his presence felt.
From serving aboard the USS Blue Ridge of the Seventh Fleet to serving as a helicopter crew chief, Clark was made for the military. In fact, by the time he was discharged, he had made his way up to 1st Sergeant.
And yet, it is the way Clark carried himself beyond just the call of duty that always stood out about him. He said he was so committed to duty that he did not pick up an alcoholic beverage during his 14 years of service. Even more, Clark was a constant beacon of light with his omni-positive attitude, and his fellow Marine Corps brothers looked up to him because of this.
His attitude and his undying loyalty to the military are just two of the many reasons Clark is going to make a great AMVETS National Commander. He is also going to make a great commander because Clark can view things from a different perspective. Because he has spent the past 30-plus years as a true civilian, he will be able to bring those two worlds together.
What’s more is Clark will be able to capitalize on all the great things his predecessors have done before him, including outgoing Commander Don McLean. The transition process has been more than smooth already because of both men being both committed and loyal, and always wanting what is best for AMVETS.
Clark is a people person too, which will help him be a commander who can connect and hear things from others’ perspectives.
“I have a knack for putting people at ease, creating a comfortable atmosphere in various situations,” Clark said. “Moreover, I am known for my exceptional sense of humor, which adds positivity and levity to interactions.”
It is the little things that make a big difference, and that is why something as seemingly simple as Clark’s great character and personality will go a long way in continuing to build AMVETS and guide it in the right direction.
Clark also has a passion for his military family and he loves the mission of AMVETS, which will help guide him in always doing what is best for the organization.
“I previously served as an active state officer with the VFW,” Clark stated. “My introduction to AMVETS happened when I attended several state meetings and, eventually, my first convention. It was during these experiences that I felt a strong connection to the AMVETS community and decided to become a part of it. I genuinely believe that AMVETS, at all levels, wholeheartedly prioritizes the best interests of veterans.”
Clark’s values clearly align with those of AMVETS, and for that reason and many more AMVETS is glad to have him serving as their 2023-2024 National Commander.
“It is indeed an honor for me to currently hold the position of National Commander of AMVETS. I’m eager to tackle the challenges we face during these trying times and to lead AMVETS forward into 2024 with optimism and determination.”
Clark and AMVETS are certainly on the right page, and together they are capable of doing some pretty great things.