A perpetually smiling face is no longer with us . . . William Robert "Bill" Currier, age 67, died doing something he loved, flying. Bill was test piloting a friend's home-built Rans Sakota (S-10) on June 23, 2005 near Aiken, S.C. when engine trouble resulted in a crash. Bill lived on Gilbert International Air Park (near Columbia, S.C.) where he joyfully flew his own Rans S-10. Bill had also owned a 1959 Aeronca Champion in recent years which he particularly enjoyed flying from South Carolina to Vermont navigating via compass, rivers, and roadways!

Bill came to the Air Force Academy from Essex Junction, VT. He was chosen as a first alternate directly out of high school. He was so intent upon attending the Academy that he called, spoke with, and convinced the primary candidate that he should withdraw so Bill could take the appointment, which he did. Bill did well in school participating in varsity soccer and track and attained the rank of cadet squadron commander. (His meteoric rise to the top suffered a setback, however, as he was caught at an after hours raid at Colorado University prior to a football game!) He graduated with the second Academy class in 1960. Bill recently relished reconnecting with Academy classmates at his 40th and 45th class reunions. He and his wife of 21 years, Irma Jeanne, returned from the 45th reunion just four days before his fatal accident.

Bill served in the Air Force for six years as a fighter pilot including a tour of duty in Okinawa. He became an instructor pilot with the 174th Tactical Fighter Group of the Air National Guard, Hancock Field, Syracuse, NY, where he served for 14 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Bill flew a total of nearly 3,000 hours in the F-86 Sabre, F 102 Delta Dagger, T-33 Shooting Star, and the AT-37. Whether flying fighter jets or single-engine prop planes, Bill loved to be in the air and share the joy of flying with others–particularly enjoying the role of instructor pilot.

Bill received a master's in Political Science from Auburn University during his military years and later became a doctoral student in Education at Syracuse University. He taught mathematics at Morrisville (NY), Blue Ridge (VA) and Midlands Technical (SC) Colleges. One of Bill's greatest gifts was helping others realize their own talents and skills. At his memorial service, his daughter Megan said, "What heartened me was that he wasn't only standing there shouting instructions from the sidelines, but he was also one of my greatest fans. Cheering me on, pushing me, encouraging me, building my confidence by having that confidence in me." Many people were blessed with having Bill's strength and encouragement to lead them on, as he had a deep faith in the goodness of everyone.

Bill's support and caring for others were reflected in his devotion to his church, Lexington United Methodist. As a "PK"– preacher's kid–faith was an important part of Bill's life. The last 10 years he chaired numerous church committees, most recently leading the Care Team Ministry. Bill was particularly dedicated to providing services to the elderly and worked closely in fellowship with sister AME Church in Lexington.

Bill leaves behind his wife, Irma Jeanne; daughters Tonya, Auburn, Megan, and Marta; son Miles; and their families and three grandchildren. Bill truly loved life and lived it to the fullest, providing a great example to us all. One could not have wanted a better friend or classmate.

(Irma Jeanne Currier/MilesA. Kaspar Jr., 1960)