AMERICAN VOICE

The Hotwash with CJ

Rev. Bill McDonald Known in the military veteran community as the ultimate advocate and supporter of both his fellow Vietnam Veterans and former South Vietnamese military allies. He has been assisting and aiding both communities since the end of the Vietnam War and his own return to civilian life. He lobbies both the California State legislature as well as Congress as a pro bono crusader of veteran rights and issues.Bill was a Huey helicopter crew-chief/door-gunner with the famed “Tomahawks” -128th Assault Helicopter Company in Phu Loi, South Vietnam in 1966-67. This was one of the most decorated helicopter units in the war. He was awarded many medals and ribbons including The Distinguished Flying Cross, The Bronze Star Medal, 14 Air Medals, The Purple Heart Medal. His unit was also awarded The Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. He was wounded in Nam and has some ongoing injuries that he still deals with today.The California State Assembly as well as The California State Senate honored him with a certificates for his services to the veteran community for over 40 years. Congresswoman Doris Matsui also presented a formal congressional recognition for his services over the last several decades nation wide, as well as within her own congressional district. Matthew Merz born in 1973 in the great state of Texas father is a 37 year retired US Army Ranger ,mother was a stay at home mom ,grew up a military brat -mostly Alaska, Central and South America large family of 4 brothers and 5 sisters ,Boy Scouts of America –Eagle Scout 1992 graduated high school in Tucson, AZ attended college at both Pima Community College and the University of Arizona, Tucson joined the Tucson Police Department in 1999 have 16 years total as a police officer ,last 3 years have been in the Tucson Police K9 unit married 19 years have two boys, 14yrs and 11yrs old