William H. "Bill" Coleman was born August 22, 1948, in Lincoln, Nebraska, to Francis and Winnie Coleman. He attended Lincoln High School and graduated in June, 1966. That same month, he was officially sworn in as a Marines E-1, Private (PV1). He completed basic training at MCRD – San Diego (class of 1966), before advancing onto ITR Training and Engineering Bulk-Fuel Training at Camp Pendleton, San Diego County, California. From there, he was sent to Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, NC, as a part of the 2nd Fleet Marine Force.
In June 1967, he committed to a tour in Vietnam where his cousin had already been stationed; the late, Army 2nd Lieutenant, Gaylord Eugene "Mike" Nootz (decd. July 12, 1967, KIA). Bill was stationed in Chu Lai, Phu Bai (MAG16), Dong Ha and Quang Tri (MAG39). His more significant experiences were at Quang Tri as a 1391 at MAG39 where his first assignment was to build fueling stations around base. As a NCO – Corporal, he was entrusted to maintain fuel tanks and filters, while also fueling aircraft for the 1st Marine Airwing. He returned to the U.S in August 1968; serving a total of 12 months, 28 days of active duty. Subsequently, he was signed to the Marine Barracks 8th & I in Washington DC, where he was promoted to Sergeant and 2nd Squad Leader of the Silent Drill platoon treated with a top-secret security clearance for the Presidential Retreat at Camp David under Presidents Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon. Bill was honorably discharged in 1970.
Having worked as a Deputy Sheriff for the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office, "Grandpa" as he's affectionately called, enjoys a retired life with his eternal wife, Linda, and their dogs: Ruby and Taz; cats: Bubba, Willie, Wally, Tank, and Buddy. When he's not reaching for items on the top shelf for his wife, you can find him enjoying reruns of his favorite show, Jack Reacher. He occasionally enjoys a nice sirloin steak complete with a baked potato on the side at his local VFW while proudly sporting his Marines ball cap. He stands in solidarity to all fellow servicemen and women who battle the lingering effects left behind from the war such as tinnitus and PTSD. When asked if there was one thing he'd like to have engraved on his tomb, his reply, "Semper Fi."
What a wonderful tribute a most kind, amazing, and well deserving human being. Anyone who knows Bill could recognize him from this bio! I am so fortunate and have always been proud to call Bill brother.
Thank you for your service Sergeant Coleman.
This is a wonderful tribute to my cousin Bill. I cried when I got to where my brother Mike Nootz was mentioned. Although we never lived close to each other there was definitely a bond with my cousin.
Love you all!
Having known and worked with Captain Coleman for 53 years I know what I fine individual he is. He is extremely proud of his Marine service sharing stories particularly in Washington DC and their extremely strict code.
As my supervisor as 90224 he was a dedicated overseer yet fair and instructional when discipline was required.
I will admire this Man for the rest of my life.