William Bill Cunningham

Col. Cunningham proudly served 30 years as an aviator in the United States Marine Corps. He served two tours in Vietnam (63-64, 68-69) as a helicopter squadron commanding officer where he was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart. Colonel “Bill’s” medals and citations include: Legion of Merit (with Combat V), 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, Meritorious Service, 22 Air Medals, 2 Joint Service Medals, Navy Commendation Medal (with Combat V), Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry (with Silver Star), Vietnamese Service Medal (with Silver Star), Vietnamese Pilot Wings, Vietnamese Command Pilot Wings. His 22 Air Medals account for 440 combat missions. After retiring from the military, Col. Cunningham and his family owned and operated 4 McDonalds restaurant’s in Baldwin County, Alabama until 1991.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Willie Corley Cunningham; children, Cynthia Cunningham, Eric Cunningham and his wife, Lorien; grandson, Alexander William Cunningham; brother, Thomas Cunningham.

Funeral services will be held Saturday Dec. 30 at 10:30 AM at Barrancas National Cemetery, Pensacola Naval Air Station. Full military honors will be provided by the United States Marine Corps.

If desired, in lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Marine Corps Semper Fi Fund, 825 College Blvd, Suite 102, PMB 609, Oceanside, CA 92057, or at www.semperfifund.org.