Johancharles “Chuck” Van Boers

Johancharles “Chuck” Van Boers (Army) is a member of the Lipan Apache Nation. He enlisted in the Army in 1982 as a photographer and first saw action during Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada. During his service, Chuck met other Native service members, and they bonded over their shared traditions. He carried his family’s military eagle feathers with him during the Battle of Fallujah and even participated in a powwow while in Iraq. Although he retired in 2009, Chuck is still active today with tribal traditions and veteran organizations. During his service, he received two Bronze stars and three Purple Hearts, among many other commendations. Born in Fresno, California, he lives in Temecula, California.