Canton veterans’ clinic may be named for first Black War College graduate
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| Major General Oliver Dillard |
Mr. Dillard, a resident of Canton Township, began his career of service in 1945 when he was first drafted during World War II. He was selected to serve as company clerk and began to work his way through the ranks. In 1965, Mr. Dillard graduated from the National War College, becoming the first black officer to do so. Throughout Mr. Dillard's distinguished service career, he held various esteemed positions and received nine military awards and two civilian medals, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge with Star, according to official army documents.
Mr. Dillard retired in 1980 from military service as a major general after 34 years of service and remained a Canton resident until his death.
“Major General Dillard was an extraordinary American who led an admirable life of service. There are so many reasons to celebrate Mr. Dillard, from the glass ceilings he shattered to the way he courageously served his country for 34 years,” said Stevens (MI-11). “It was an honor to tour what will be named the 'Major General Oliver W. Dillard VA Outpatient Clinic' alongside the family that he did an incredible job of raising, and I am thrilled that soon, Michiganders everywhere will know Major General Oliver W. Dillard's name and legacy.”
Dingell was also impressed with the facility and with Mr. Dillard's career of service.
The new facility is expected to provide medical services to 12,000 veterans annually, a spokesman noted and is an outreach effort of the Ann Arbor VA Health Care System. Services will include primary care, women's health services, metal heath care, radiology, pain treatment, physical therapy, prosthetics, ultrasound along with laboratory testing and pathology services.
“Major General Oliver W. Dillard was a trailblazer who dedicated his life to serving our country,” said Dingell (MI-12).
“The DAV Department of Michigan believes naming the Canton Outpatient Clinic in honor of Major General Dillard is a fitting tribute to his dedication to duty and selfless sacrifices over a lifetime of service to our country,” said Paul Kaiser, adjutant, Disabled American Veterans Department of Michigan. “Major General Dillard is not only an inspiration to all of us who have served, but also to generations of future veterans that will answer our nation's call.”
“Major General Oliver W. Dillard Senior's 34 years of exemplary service to our nation cannot be understated, and the renaming of this facility is a small step towards recognizing his incredible service to our nation,” said Kevin A. Conklin, State Commander, and Derek Blumke, State Adjutant & Quartermaster, Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Michigan. “Through the renaming of this facility, our nation can begin to express its gratitude for all he represented, for his accomplishments during his service, and in breaking down barriers for African American service members.”
Appointments are currently being accepted for veterans seeking medical services at the facility.
