William George Hatfield

William George Hatfield was born in 1949 at Scott Air Force Base, where his father studied advanced radio and communications. An “Air Force Brat,” he moved often with two older brothers and two younger sisters. At age three, he spent nearly a year in Japan while his father commanded the 5th AACS.

Childhood focused on woods and camping; later on cars, girls, and sports. Average academically with severe reading disability, he dropped out of college after one year and was drafted into the Army in late 1969—against his Colonel father’s Air Force advice. He served one year, one month, and two days in Vietnam at remote fire bases near Cambodia.

Vietnam fueled his drive. He returned to excel in electrical engineering and computer science, building a career as lead data acquisition specialist and programmer. Post-retirement, he took special assignments in Turkey, Russia, China, Australia, and Venezuela.

High school track, cross country, swimming, and diving prepared him for service. He earned a pilot’s license in the mid-1980s. His greatest passion was black-diamond snow skiing. Limited now by age and surgeries, he enjoys photography, shooting, and writing.