Bill was born on February 05, 1934 in New York to Gordon and Sophie Cockayne. He enlisted in the Air Force in 1953 and received his wings as a navigator in 1954 while stationed at Waco, Texas. He met the love of his life Ann his “Yellow Rose of Texas” in Galveston. He always said you can take the girl out of Texas, but not the Texan out of the girl. They were married almost 68 years. Bill and Ann have four children and seven grandchildren and blessed with countless friends and family.
His career spanned from flying B47 to B130 aircrafts, the Titan 2 Missile, and later Chief of Police. His Career took him from Viet Nam, Philippines, England, Vandenburg, North Dakota, Germany and finally retiring at March AFB. His eldest daughter Deborah followed his footsteps, entering the Air Force the legacy flying the AC-130 Gunship.
Upon retiring, he completed his college degree in Criminal Justice and went on to work in the Aerospace Field.
After retiring for the last time, he and Ann enjoyed traveling, and he had a passion for woodworking and crating countless holiday displays.
He received many accolades from the Air Force and the Lady of Guadalupe Award from St. Patrick’s Church in 2010.
