Honoring those who have served their country with distinction often requires recognizing their efforts long after they have left the battlefield. Such is the case for John Wells, a U.S. Navy veteran, who has not only dedicated his life to military service but has also been a relentless advocate for fellow veterans.
Recognition for Outstanding Service
On March 20, Commander John Wells (Ret.) received the esteemed DAR Medal of Honor from the Louisiana Society of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution during their 117th state conference in Alexandria, Louisiana. This award, established in 1942, acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, patriotism, and service to the nation.
Wells was nominated by the Wharton Chapter and was formally acknowledged by Bobbi Foster, the national vice chairman of the President General’s Project Committee. Upon receiving the award, Wells expressed, “I am honored to accept this award on behalf of all the volunteers at Military-Veterans Advocacy—from the Blue Water Navy to the Procopio case, and the hundreds of thousands of veterans covered by the PACT Act,” he told Military.com.
We are proud to help bring long-overdue relief to those who have waited far too long for the benefits they earned.
Landmark Legal Advocacy
Wells’ impact is perhaps best highlighted by his involvement in the landmark 2019 case, Procopio v. Wilkie. This federal circuit court decision asserted that Blue Water Navy Vietnam veterans, who served within 12 nautical miles of Vietnam, were entitled to benefits due to exposure to Agent Orange. The case involved Navy veteran Alfred Procopio Jr., who was initially denied VA benefits for prostate cancer and diabetes mellitus, diseases linked to Agent Orange exposure.
Through his legal advocacy, Wells helped secure benefits for approximately 90,000 Blue Water Navy veterans through the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019, which became effective on January 1, 2020.
A Distinguished Career and Beyond
With a naval career spanning over two decades, Wells served in various operational deployments including the Mediterranean, Western Pacific, and Persian Gulf. His military tenure was marked by integrity and leadership. After retiring, Wells pursued a Juris Doctor and dedicated himself to legal work, often on a pro bono basis, focusing on veterans’ issues such as toxic exposure claims.
Wells founded Military-Veterans Advocacy, Inc., a nonprofit organization that engages in legal advocacy and policy development to benefit veterans. The organization’s efforts have been pivotal in expanding healthcare access for veterans exposed to toxic substances like Agent Orange and burn pits.
In addition to his advocacy, Wells has been instrumental in veterans’ treatment court programs, assisting veterans in reintegrating into society. Bobbi Foster remarked, “Cdr. Wells’ lifetime of service truly reflects the ideals of leadership, patriotism and dedication that this medal represents. His unwavering commitment—both in uniform and beyond—has made a lasting impact on veterans and their families across our nation.”
