Posted by Dave Taylor on August 20, 2004:

I did not know Bill at USMA, but we became great friends as the only two Class of '85 LTs in 3-7 FA, 25th ID. What an incredible guy. Ranger Gore was tough as nails, but his confidence and leadership came through quietly, with his characteristic laconic smile. He had the utter respect and devotion of his men. Bill was an FSO, attached to the Infantry, and sometimes felt a bit disconnected from the Bn. Once a week or so he'd saunter over to my FDO office to get caught up on Bn news. A fast friendship formed. My fondest memory of Bill is the time a tsunami warning was posted for the North Shore of Oahu. We were in garrison, but at first we didn't think it was a big deal; as the day wore on, we realized the civilian authorities were serious, and we got the afternoon off to get a few things from our off-post quarters. After gathering personal papers, effects, and our precious stereos, we drove about 1/2 mile up Kam Highway, pulled over to the shoulder, and sat back to watch the show. We were the first ones there, but soon a regular party developed, as vehicles lined the highway to watch the imminent destruction of our homes. Fortunately, the tsunami was a bust, but Bill and I and a few other LTs milked the situation for every bit of humor we could muster. I still have a hilarious snapshot of Bill pointing to the ocean in mock horror... My favorite quotation from the large body of West Point lore, monuments, and knowlege was and is the inscription on that bench on Flirtation Walk. My best recollection is that it goes: "Life is the greatest of games. Play it with dignity, honor, and courage." Those are key words for young cadets, but today I would add "humor" and "love." Bill had all of these qualities. Be Thou at Peace, Bill Gore.

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