Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. --
U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Matthew McFarlane, commanding general for America’s First Corps, inducted U.S. Army retired Col. William B. Reeder Jr. into the Ancient Order of Saint Barbara at the I Corps Headquarters Hall of Heroes, March 10, 2025.
The ceremony highlighted Reeder’s remarkable and dedicated service to field artillery.
In 1971, Reeder served as a senior captain and an OV-1 pilot during his first tour in Vietnam.
During his second combat tour in Vietnam on March 9,1972, he fulfilled his duties as a Cobra gunship pilot. Reeder operated a helicopter that had been shot down by North Vietnamese Communist. He managed to escape until March 12, 1972, and was taken as a prisoner of war.
Reeder experienced being held captive for nearly a year. Though Reeder faced horrendous tragedies, his devotion to serving allowed him to continue his career.
“It is an extraordinary honor to gather today to celebrate Retired Col. William B. Reeder Jr. Ph. D.,” said McFarlane. “A distinguished United States Army veteran and a most deserving recipient of the Order of Saint Barbara.”
Reeder experienced being held captive for nearly a year. Though Reeder faced horrendous tragedies, his devotion to serving allowed him to continue his career.
It was Reeder’s choice to be stationed at Fort Lewis after his captivity. Reeder was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington from 1973 to 1975, serving with the 11th Field Artillery, 9th Infantry Division, and as a deputy brigade commander of the 9th Cavalry Brigade (Air Attack), from 1983 to 1985. The following year he became the interim commander for the 3rd Squadron, 5th Cavalry Regiment.
Reeder retired March 1, 1995, and later worked as a civilian contractor, as head of the I Corps Leader Development Program, operating at the Battle Commanding Training Center, now known as the Mission Training Complex.
“I want to thank everyone for coming, I even see some familiar faces,” said Reeder. “I’d like to thank my wife Melanie and all of you for your support. It is an honor to be here today, to be standing and receiving this award.”
The Ancient Order of Saint Barbara is derived from the patron saint of artillerymen, Saint Barbara. A young woman of the mid-3rd century who experienced horrendous treatment from her father. Saint Barbara’s father held her captive inside of a tower, isolating her from the world for several years, and later betrayed her by beheading her due to her refusal of marriage to a man of the Roman Empire. She believed her commitment to her spirituality was the only devotion she was called to give rather than marriage.
The Order of Saint Barbara is awarded to artillerymen who have exemplified the same dedication and selfless service to their nation. Reeder’s service and experience exemplifies his dedication and contribution to field artillery, the nation, and the U.S. Army.
“Thank you, Col. Reeder for showing us what true service looks like,” said McFarlane. “You have not only defended our Nation but inspired generations of Soldiers who follow in your footsteps.”
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