Colonel W.G. (Bill) Willis received his commission in August 1958 following graduation from OCS at Fort Benning, Georgia. During his 30 years of commissioned service he served in the Maryland, Ohio and Kentucky Army National Guard, in the U.S. Army Reserve and on active duty, he served in command and staff positions including command of a rifle company, a cavalry squadron, and staff positions in two four-star commands and at the Pentagon at HQ, Dept. of the Army, and in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. | His assignments included service in the 29th Infantry Division, Maryland ARNG; 37th Infantry Division, OHARNG; 100th Div (Tng), USAR; HQ, TRADOC; and HQ AMC. | He is a 1972 graduate of the C&GSC and a 1977 graduate of the resident course at the U.S. Army War College. He is also a graduate of the University of Louisville (BSC) and received an Massachusetts degree from Central Michigan University. | His awards and decorations include: the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal w/ 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal w/ Oak Leaf Clusters, Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachute Badge, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense Identification Badge and was inducted into the “Corridor of the Century” honoring selected retirees who served in the 100th Division.