Colonel William Coleman, USAF (Retired) faithfully served the United States of America for 25 years, during World War II, the Vietnam and Korean wars as well as the Cold War era. During his service, Colonel Coleman piloted more than 25 different military aircraft, which included the B-17 "Flying Fortress," B-52 "Mitchell Bomber," and the B-47 "Strator Fortress." He piloted over 10,000 hours and served 1,003 combat hours. For his gallant service, Colonel Coleman received many honorable framed medals. His military decorations include: the Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with seven Oak Leaf Clusters, and Air Force Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster. Colonel William D. Coleman received the prestigious framed Silver Star for his courageous efforts as a member of the 7th Air Force in Southeast Asia, 1968. Colonel Coleman also received several framed ribbons, which include the Presidential Unit Citation With One Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat Valor Device and the Air Force Longevity Service Award. Colonel William Downing Coleman, age 85, died May 19, 2011 in Asheville, North Carolina.