After graduating from Drew University in 1967, Bob was drafted in 1968 and served two years, including a year in Vietnam as a Reconnaissance Team Leader in the Army’s 101st Airborne Division. Bob was wounded in the Battle of Fire Support Base Ripcord, a 23-day battle between his division and two reinforced divisions of the People’s Army of Vietnam (PAVN) from July 1 to 23 1970, the last major confrontation between U.S. ground forces and the PAVN, where he took command when his platoon leader was killed, had to call artillery fire onto his unit because weather prohibited gunship and evacuation helicopter support, and under heavy enemy fire led his platoon to a secure location. Bob’s medals and awards include two Bronze Stars for heroism and valor in combat, two Purple Hearts for combat wounds, two Air Medals, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal. Bob’s post-military career was in the investment management business, primarily with The Dreyfus Corporation as a V.P. and Western Sales Manager. Since 1990, he has volunteered extensively in Orange County, including negotiating the use by the county of Tobacco Litigation Settlement revenue and with the American Cancer Society, the Irvine Senior Foundation, the City of Irvine’s Investment Committee, the Orange County Veterans Memorial Park Foundation, and Newport Harbor Post 291 of the American Legion. Bill’s American Legion leadership positions include National Legislative Council, State Legislative Commissioner, and District Finance Officer. He was California’s “Legionnaire of the Year” in 2018 and a City of Irvine Distinguished Citizen in 2019 for his community service work. Bob resides in Irvine with his wife Betsy.