The following is from Nick Easterling, Director/Veterans Service Officer-Branch County Veterans Affairs
Branch County Veterans Affairs Veteran of the Month for January 2026 is William “Bill” Acock.
Bill, a Coldwater native, enlisted in the U.S. Army June 16, 1958, attending training at Ft. Benning GA, becoming an Infantryman. After completing training, Bill transferred to Charlie Company 1st Airborne 505th Infantry Regiment November 1958. Over the next couple years, Bill would show everyone how he earned the name “Wild Bill”, earning the Army’s Airborne Parachutist Badge at Ft. Bragg N.C. and the Army’s Expert Infantry Badge while stationed in Germany.
Completing his service and discharging out of Ft. Riley KS, Bill made his way back to Coldwater. Eventually settling into a role as a Construction Grade Checker, Bill played an important role in a few major projects like the parking lot of the Battle Creek Mall and I-69. Bill started a family and had two wonderful kids.
Never one to stay put, Bill would keep himself busy with various projects and driving for the Branch County Veterans Affairs, transporting veterans to medical appointments, something he would do for years.
The Branch County Veterans and everyone thank you for your service, Bill. Congratulations!”
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