AFTER DEDICATING 26 years to the military, a lifetime of service doesn’t just end with retirement. For Michael Stoyonovich, it continues with a story of heroism extending far beyond the battlefield.
Stoyonovich, a retired U.S. Army veteran, has dedicated his post-military life to advocating for veterans in Kentucky, transforming his experiences into legislative actions and compassionate outreach.
Stoyonovich’s life took a pivotal turn when he was drafted into the Army in 1967. “I was a college dropout and quickly found myself in jungle training, preparing for Vietnam,” he recalled. The war left an undeniable mark on him. Though he initially left the service, the commitment and discipline of the military drew him back, time and again, until his final retirement in 2007 after 26 years of service.
His military decorations, including the Bronze Star and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, speak volumes of his valor and commitment. However, it’s his work after his combat boots were put away that tells the story of a different kind of bravery.
Stoyonovich has turned his focus toward those who, like him, have faced the daunting transition back to civilian life.
As a state service officer for Disabled American Veterans, Stoyonovich has met and interviewed over 2,500 veterans, assisting them in navigating the complexities of their benefits. His efforts have secured over $2.5 million in permanent annual income for these heroes, significantly enhancing their quality of life. “I never get tired of a veteran telling me, ‘You have made mine and my family’s lives better,’” Stoyonovich shared with a sense of pride.
But Stoyonovich’s advocacy doesn’t stop at individual consultations. Moved by the tragedy of a combat veteran under his care who succumbed to PTSD, Stoyonovich took his commitment to the legislative arena. He drafted the “Prevention of Veteran Suicide in Kentucky” bill, which has seen overwhelming support, passing the House 95-0. “This bill has an opportunity to save veterans’ lives,” Stoyonovich stated, hopeful and determined. This is what makes the mission all the more worthwhile for Stoyonovich.
Earlier, his legislative expertise resulted in the enactment of the “Green Alert” system in 2019. This system mirrors Amber and Golden Alerts and is specifically designed to assist in locating missing veterans at risk due to mental or physical health conditions. This law has already been instrumental in several cases, proving the worth of its advocate.
Stoyonovich’s relentless drive comes from personal battles with post-traumatic stress disorder and physical injuries. “I was diagnosed with PTSD over 40 years after Vietnam. I denied having that condition because I had gotten married and we had our first child, and [I] couldn’t let my mental condition interfere with making a living and taking care of my family.” Stoyonovich shared that he felt fortunate to contain his mental anguish and carry on with his everyday life.
“A lot of veterans I worked with to get their benefits, could not,” he explained, highlighting a common thread among veterans who often downplay their struggles.
Stoyonovich’s impact extends beyond the veteran community. Elected to multiple board positions and involved in various civic activities, he has become a symbol of hope and action. His weekly column in the local newspaper, USA Veterans Corner, provides veterans with essential information and heartfelt stories that connect and inspire.
In recognition of his tireless service, Stoyonovich has received numerous accolades, including the title of “Kentucky Veteran of the Year” in 2022. But perhaps more telling are the lives he’s touched, the veterans he’s helped, and the community he’s built around service and advocacy.
Most recently, Stoyonovich’s dedication led to the Kentucky State Senate passing his bill 37-0 and Gov. Beshear signing it (# HB30) into law on April 4, 2024. The bill will become official law in June 2024.
Looking at Stoyonovich’s life and work, it’s clear that his battles have gone beyond the warzone overseas. His story is one of courage, not just in the face of enemy fire, but in the quiet moments helping a fellow veteran find peace, in the halls of government advocating for systemic change, and in the community, offering hope and resilience to other veterans. Michael Stoyonovich is not just a soldier; he is a guardian — a fighter for those who can no longer fight for themselves. GN
