by Alyas Rokovitz       

Written as a tribute to Brian Wizard, this piece was submitted for consideration in the Defense Commissary Agency’s “Together We Stand Strong – Veterans Day Photo Contest.” Check back after November 6th 2026 to see if we’ve been selected!

Brian “Wizard” Willard is someone I would personally like to honor for his tenacity, creativity, and sheer zest for life! Brian served as a combat assault helicopter door gunner during the Vietnam War in 1968–1969, serving in Vietnam during one of the most challenging periods of the conflict.

Even today, Brian remains a go-getter, focused on building his legacy and living life to the fullest despite the challenges and curveballs life can bring. He’s a quirky, unconventional individual who doesn’t always filter his words, but his straightforward nature is part of what makes him uniquely himself. He isn’t someone who sets out to be rude or insulting; he simply sees and expresses things in his own way.

One of the things I admire most about Brian is that he has spent his life creating. His artistic spirit shines through in the more than 17 e-books he has written, including fictional stories inspired by his years in Vietnam and the challenges of returning to civilian life afterward. His creativity extends beyond writing to the many statues, buttons, and musical projects he has poured his time and energy into bringing to life.

Brian’s legacy also includes helping preserve an important piece of aviation and military history at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. Pollution IV was the 118th Assault Helicopter Company’s smoke ship, and Brian’s book and movie tell the story of a day in the life of a smoke ship in combat. When he donated his helmet and scarf to the museum, he realized that the Huey on display, despite its smoke ship history, was missing a crucial piece: its smoke generator.

When the museum’s Roger Connor asked where they could find such a vintage piece of equipment, Brian’s response was classic Wizard: “Hold that thought. I’ll get back to you.” And he did! Brian tracked down the missing smoke generator, which Roger installed, helping complete the Huey display. Brian didn’t just contribute artifacts; he helped bring a piece of the smoke ship’s story to life for future generations. That kind of initiative, knowledge, and determination speaks volumes about the man behind the Wizard nickname.

Some of his creations and ideas may be considered unconventional, but then again, Brian himself is anything but ordinary! He has continued to express himself, pursue his passions, and build a legacy that reflects his individuality, experiences, and willingness to think outside the box.

To me, honoring a veteran means recognizing not only the service they gave, but also the life they’ve continued to live, the obstacles they’ve faced, the history they’ve helped preserve, and the unique mark they leave on the world.

Hats off to you, Mr. Wizard! Thank you for your military service in Vietnam, your creativity, your generosity, your perseverance, and for continuing to live life on your own terms. Your story deserves to be celebrated!