Billy Lankford Bendit

Dear XO, Many young, successful naval officers were influenced by your style of leadership and professionalism. You will never be forgotten and as our USS Corry (DD-817) shipmates commiserate, mention of you always results in an XO story and brings a smile to our faces. Fair winds shipmate and mentor.

Read my comment to see I had left off my name, Tom Hickman, The Best Man

Just learned that my close pal of growing up years has moved on. Junior high, high school and college years were times we were inseparable. It was my honor to serve in their wedding as Billy's best man

Dear Chris, Skip and Family: Please accept my sincere condolences in your loss. I was saddened to hear that Mister Bendit (as I always called him) had died. I will always remember his kindness and generosity. He helped my family at a time when we really needed him. He co-signed my college student loans. He also signed as a guarantor on my first New York City apartment. What a champion! He really was a champion to me. How do we measure a life, I wonder? If it is measured by the people we...

Aunt Chris and Skip,
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Uncle Bill. He was an amazingly warm man that always sacrificed for the betterment of his family and his country. His passion for life and for his family will be greatly missed. Please know that are in our prayers and we send our deepest condolences.

Billy was a gentleman,and a true friend. I will miss him dearly and will carry my memories of him always.

Skip and family.
So sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family.

I loved working with Billy. He was always so much fun to be with and a great mentor for me.

Glad Bless you all,
Joe Inge

Dear Chris and Skip
Just wanted you to know I am thinking about you both, and am so sorry for your loss.
Love Mary Donnan Harrison