Bill Bolen was born in California to working-class parents and raised in Southern Illinois. At the age of ten, he was deeply inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s famous words, “Ask not what your country can do for you; rather, ask what you can do for your country.” Those words would remain with him throughout his life and ultimately helped inspire him to enlist in the United States Army. Bill served in several capacities during his military career and honorably served his country in Vietnam in 1969.

Following his military service, Bill attended college under the GI Bill and spent the majority of his professional career as an independent civil investigator. He and his wife, Janice, have been married for more than 50 years and are the proud parents of eight children and 27 grandchildren. Bill remains a decades-long member of the American Legion and is deeply involved with the Rowan County Veterans Foundation and Museum, where he serves as President.

A Kentucky Colonel, veteran, historian, writer, and community servant, Bill continues to dedicate his time to preserving history, honoring veterans, and serving his community.