Flagler County Veteran of the Week: William Gallagher

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

If you would like to submit a Veteran of the Week for publication, send the details below, and photos, to [email protected].

William H. Gallagher Jr.

Branch of Military: U.S. Air Force
Dates of Service: 1966-1970
Rank/Occupation: Staff Sergeant/Aircraft Maintenance Crew Chief
Hometown: Cherry Hill, New Jersey

William Gallagher was assigned at Hanscom Field, Massachusetts, and was deployed to Southeast Asia in support of combat operations in Vietnam. Primarily based at Nakhom Phanom Air Base in Thailand, he was an aircraft crew chief responsible for keeping his C-118 Liftmaster cargo plane in operation. He received the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and Air Force Commendation. Following his honorable service to his country, he joined the Camden Police Department in New Jersey, where during his 26-year career he served in numerous special units. While a member of the department’s narcotics task force he made hundreds of arrests, and in one particular dangerous operation he was shot and wounded by drug dealer. Fortunately, he recovered to continue serving his community as a police officer. He also served as a mounted policeman with the department’s equestrian unit. That high profile assignment necessitated a lot of travel in support of special events in and outside of New Jersey, including the Nation’s Capital for presidential inaugurations. He is the recipient of the Silver Star for bravery and Legion of Honor Award from the American Police Hall of Fame, Titusville Florida. He is also the recipient of a Heroism Award from the Fraternal Order of Police, Bravery Ward from the New Jersey Police Benevolent Association and numerous other awards from the Camden Police Department and District Attorney’s Office. After retirement from the police force, he went into business training horses and teaching horsemanship. Gallagher and his bride, Donna, of 47 years moved to Palm Coast in 2010. Gallagher has boxed throughout his life and still hits the gym regularly to stay fit and sharp. He is a member and past president of the Blue Knights XXII motorcycle club, in Palm Coast. The club is exclusive to active and retired law enforcement officers. He has organized and led many successful local charity events that benefited Flagler County and its residents.