About Me

Founder of VTAN | Disabled Army Veteran | Advocate for Change

My name is Calvin Cheeks. I’m a 100% Permanent and Totally Disabled Veteran, and I built this organization out of pain, perseverance, and purpose.

I enlisted in the United States Army straight out of high school, following in the footsteps of my military family. Like many young men with big dreams, I wanted to serve 20 honorable years and retire with pride. I joined as a Logistics Supply Specialist (92A) and was stationed at Fort Bragg under the 101st COSCOM Airborne Unit. But life had different plans for me.

In 2004, I fell seriously ill and was medically retired due to liver failure. Doctors told me I wouldn’t live past 24 years old. I didn’t receive a liver transplant until 2014—ten years later. And yet, here I am at 42, still standing, still fighting, and more determined than ever to make my days count.

To this day, I live with chronic illnesses like diabetes and other complications that make daily life difficult. But no matter how tough things get, I show up with a smile to serve my community—even when I'm suffering in silence.

The VA didn’t make it easy for me. I was forced to fight every step of the way just to get the benefits and healthcare I earned. And I’m far from alone. I’ve seen too many of my brothers and sisters in arms fall through the cracks—struggling with denied claims, homelessness, mental health challenges, and the crushing weight of trying to survive in a world that too often forgets them.

I’m not perfect. I’m still learning, growing, and healing. But I’ve found my purpose—and that purpose is to help other veterans who are suffering silently like I once was.

That’s why I started Veteran Transition Assistance Network (VTAN)—to create a platform that fights for real help, real healing, and real hope for veterans across the country.

If you’re a veteran in need—or someone who wants to be part of the change—I invite you to stand with me. This movement is just beginning.