The following is a guest blog post by Candace Milburn, liaison specialist with the Veterans History Project.
Have you ever wondered what a Warrant Officer does in the military? When I hear the word “warrant,” my mind immediately goes to think about an arrest warrant or police searches. But during a recent documentary screening at the Library of Congress, I learned that warrant officers represent much more. They exemplify mentorship, leadership and excellence across all branches of the military. They advise top military leaders, train enlisted personnel and commissioned officers and uphold the highest standards of military professionalism.
So, what exactly is a warrant officer? In the U.S. military, they are highly skilled specialists and leaders who rank above enlisted personnel but below most commissioned officers. Chief Warrant Officer Five (CW5) is the highest rank in this track, held by only a select few who bring decades of experience and serve as trusted advisers and mentors at the highest levels.
The Veterans History Project (VHP) recently had the honor of collaborating with the Daniel A.P. Murray African American Cultural Association to host a screening of Rising Above the Fray, a documentary directed by Dr. James J. Williams. The film highlights the stories of African American veterans who achieved the distinguished rank of Chief Warrant Officer Five (CW5), the highest rank within the Army Warrant Officer Corps. The documentary earned Dr. Williams awards for Best First Time Director and Best Documentary at the 2024 Global Film Festival Awards along with several other honors.
The event also marked the 107th anniversary of the establishment of the Army Warrant Officer Corps, founded on July 9, 1918. Hosting this tribute alongside the legacy of Daniel A.P. Murray (the second African American to hold a professional position at the Library of Congress) added even more significance. It was an opportunity to honor both the legacy of CW5 veterans and the enduring contributions of African Americans at the Library of Congress.
Before the screening, Dr. Williams shared his own military story through an oral history interview with VHP. His 31-year military career began as an administrative specialist with the 290th U.S. Army Hospital and transitioned into a Warrant Officer role, where he served both active duty and reserve. What stood out most in the documentary was Dr. Williams’ ability to truly listen to the veteran he interviewed. In doing so he captured their sacrifice, and heroism and brought their story life on screen.
At VHP, we invite you to do the same: honor the veterans in your life by listening to their stories. Interview the for the Veterans History Project. Help us preserve their legacy for future generations. Every story matters. Every story deserves to be heard.
Want to get involved?
Explore more stories from veterans that served in warrant officer roles and find out how to get involved in the Veterans History Project.