Vietnam Veteran and Point Man Leader Honored

Dana here from Headquarters,
I just wanted to share this good news about our Point Man Antelope Valley Outpost leader.


Michael J. Bertell honored as ‘Veteran of the Year’ by Asm. Lackey
Antelope Valley Times
Tim Townsend
June 21, 2017

SACRAMENTO – Today, Assemblyman Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) honored Michael J. Bertell as the 2017 Veteran of the Year for the 36^thAssembly District. 

Michael is a Vietnam combat veteran who served in the U.S. Army from September 1969 – August 1971.  He spent most of his time in the jungles of Vietnam where his unit suffered from friendly fire on December 24, 1970.  Michael was fortunate to survive the incident and received an honorable discharge in August, 1971.  For his service, Mr. Bertell received the Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Air Medal.

“I am extremely humbled and would like to extend this award to all Veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” Michael said.  “As veterans, we all share the burden of our time on duty and I have always felt we must stick together and support each other. Bringing the Mobile Vietnam Memorial Wall to the Antelope Valley was an idea I helped move forward to honor those who died. It’s great to see a day in California where veterans are honored and recognized.”

Michael continues to dedicate his time towards others through his volunteer leadership at Point Man Antelope Valley (PMAV) where he leads weekly meetings that allow veterans of all ages to meet in a safe environment to share stories and help each other heal.

“Mr. Bertell is a true American hero.  His devotion to our country and the Antelope Valley is highly commendable” said Assemblyman Lackey.  “His selflessness is inspiring to all.”

Currently, Michael is the President of The Mobile Vietnam Memorial Wall – AV Wall committee, honoring Vietnam veterans and allowing family members to honor their fallen loved ones.  Moreover, Michael’s leadership has ushered in an education component that allows veterans to interact with students and teach them the history of the Vietnam War and its effect on the Antelope Valley.