Bill Reed’s Collection

1st Platoon, C Company, 4th/47th Battalion, 2nd Brigade

Page 1, Tale of Three Soldiers

Introduction   Here’s Mr. William A. Reed of Lancaster, California.  Bill was another one of those very lucky young men drafted on May 17, 1966 to become an “Old Reliable” with the famous 9th Infantry Division as it was reactivated at Fort Riley, Kansas. Bill quickly adapted to soldiering and the right way of doing things in the Army.  He just loved Army life so much that he almost made it a career – Not!  At any rate, being a bright young man, Bill became an excellent soldier and was promptly promoted to squad leader in the 1st Platoon.  Of course, he was totally motivated to rapidly move up in order to avoid unpleasant assignments such as K.P., guard duty, cleaning latrines, etc.  Thanks to good ole Uncle Sam, Bill’s early management abilities surfaced as he preferred to delegate rather than actually doing the work himself.

Bill was right with us all for the nice little train ride from Fort Riley out to Oakland, California and then to Viet Nam aboard the troop ship. He survived numerous firefights and battles with the Viet Cong until July of 1967 when he was transferred to the 2nd/60th (another 9th Division Battalion) as part of the infusion program.  Still fortunate in his new unit, he continued to avoid injuries. This is quite amazing as our unit experienced approximately 80% casualties ……..wounded and/or killed in action.

After the Army, Bill went to work for Lockheed Corporation, where his newly acquired management skills were rapidly utilized.  I too, went to work for Lockheed about that time – Bill and I came in contact with each other over the years, but it wasn’t until year 2000 that we suddenly realized that we had experienced combat together so many years ago. For this amazing story, click above on “The Tale of Three Soldiers”. Bill will soon retire from Lockheed and I congratulate him for his successful career.  Having served our country in combat when he was called upon and for his long dedicated service in the defense industry, you would have to agree that Mr. William A. Reed of Lancaster, California is a true American patriot.  Thank you Bill and Welcome Home, brother.                               

Bill Reynolds – April 20, 2002