Lucky Bag Yearbook

From the 1957 Lucky Bag:

WILLIAM NICHOLAS COLLIER, JR.

Bill came to the Academy from Andrews, S.C., after a two year tenure at the Citadel. Upon his arrival he immediately put his good bass voice into use in the Antiphonal Choir. He played a variety of intramural sports and proved to be outstanding in all of them. He was a real southern boy who liked southern dancing, songs and southern women. Rarely in his room on weekends because of his love for the opposite sex, on week days he could be found bent over the books, getting a little more gravy. Bill was a guy who knew when to work and when to play, and he did both with equal fervor.

---

He was also a member of the 21st Company staff (fall).

Loss

William was lost on July 26, 1960 when the bomber he was piloting crashed three miles short of USS Saratoga while on final approach; the ship was operating in the Atlantic ocean. Three other crewmen aboard were also lost. William was a member of Heavy Attack Squadron (VAH) 9.

Other Information

From researcher Kathy Franz:

In June 1950, William attended Palmetto Boys’ State sponsored by the American Legion.

He was appointed to the Naval Academy by Congressman John L. McMillan in June 1953.

He has a memory marker in South Carolina with the inscription: “Lieut. (JG) US Navy Lost at Sea. Married Leighton Johnson March 21, 1959.” He was also survived by a 7-month-old daughter and his parents.

Remembrances

From his daughter, Cydney Collier Donnell, on January 14, 2019:

From all accounts he was just a good guy. I have heard this from his roommate. He went to the Citadel prior to the Academy. My mother would be able to tell you more and I will discuss with her what she feels comfortable sharing.

Photographs

From left to right: 1- William's brother, Col. Richard Johnson (deceased); 2- William N. Collier, Sr.; 3- (likely) the Bishop of the Texas Diocese Episcopal Church;, 4- William Jr.. Photo courtesy Cydney Collier Donnell.