William “Bill” Ott

• Branch: United States Air Force (USAF)
• Years Served: 1988-2020, Active Duty
• Rank: AB-TSgt, then 2Lt-LtCol
• Military Occupation: Aircraft Maintenance & Acquisitions
• Hometown: Kathleen, GA
• Twitter Handle: TBD

Tell us a little about you outside of the military:

I am a father of four and stepfather to another four. Currently, I work full-time as a Project Manager for a DoD-affiliated software company. I enjoy spending time with my wife, traveling, and engaging in sports like pickleball. My hobbies and passions include cars, traveling, and advocating for change. I am also dedicated to helping shape the future of the young adults in my life.

Why are you joining the IAVA Cavalry?

As a military retiree, I now have the time to devote to causes that matter to me. I’ve been a member of IAVA for a long time, and having served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, I feel a sense of duty to drive change within our political climate. IAVA provides the perfect platform for me to give back and help veterans like myself.

How did your military experience shape you to be the person you are today?

I am incredibly grateful for the personal and professional growth the military provided me. It shaped me into who I am today. However, the decisions made by our elected officials post-9/11 deeply impacted me. The invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan have forever shaped my perspective, and witnessing the toll on military members and their families drives my desire to give back.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you believe is the most pressing? Why?

It’s hard to choose, but for me, it’s a tie between the need to repeal or reform the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) and addressing the impact of Dobbs v. Jackson. The lack of proper political debate and oversight that led to the misuse of military resources and lives after 9/11 is something that must be corrected. Additionally, the repeal of Dobbs v. Jackson impacts service members who may lack access to essential women’s health care. It is unacceptable to play politics with the lives and well-being of our military personnel.

Which one of IAVA’s policy priorities do you have the strongest personal connection to? Why?

See above. Both the AUMF reform and addressing the impact of Dobbs v. Jackson resonate strongly with me due to the lasting effects these issues have on veterans and service members.