LT WILLIAM F. ARMSTRONG, JR., USN

Class 1946
Born November 4, 1924
Died May 23, 1956
Age 31
Hometown Enid, Oklahoma

Lucky Bag Yearbook

Lucky Bag Portrait

William Floyd Armstrong, Jr.

It was inevitable that this lad from the wilds of Oklahoma should acquire the nickname “Wild Jack.” Possessed of a keen, logical mind, Jack formed opinions on many controversial subjects and rarely failed to convince others. Academics never bothered him, nor he them; nevertheless he was able to help his less fortunate wife on many occasions. Model Club work, sailing, chess, and dragging took up much of his time, as did boxing and managing the basketball team. His career as an officer will undoubtedly show an ability to meet the most exacting standards.

William Floyd Armstrong is listed among those “gone but not forgotten.” This appears to be a mistake; he has a first class biography and is listed in the 1946 Naval Academy Register as graduating 258th of 1047 midshipmen. The Class of 1946 was graduated in June 1945 due to World War II. The entirety of 2nd class (junior) year was removed from the curriculum.

Loss

Bill was lost on May 23, 1956 when the FJ-3 Fury he was piloting crashed one mile west of Moffett Field, California. He was attached to Fighter Squadron (VF) 191.

Other Information

From researcher Kathy Franz:

His wife was Norma, and sons William III, age 5, Frank Jeffrey, age 2. William’s father was a court reporter for the district court, mother Leona, and sister Faynola.

He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Bennett Hooks ‘46 and William Austin ‘46 were also members of 17th Company.