William Don Fries

Just checked my seabag and my BALL is missing. No doubt it has gone to a better place.

Capt. William D. Fries was my first Naval boss being part of his admin staff personnel office in Hatron Two. The impact of his leadership, mentoring and friendship was one of the reasons I made the Navy a career. He was a great man and Naval Office. May he rest in peace.

Robert L. Gaston, CPO, USN, Retired

At a time like this there are not words to express how we feel about the loss of Skipper Fries. He was a true leader, great pilot and a great friend. We feel the world has lost a true hero and the finest gentleman that we have ever met. We always looked forward to our reunions with the Skipper knowing that he would be upbeat and we would have a great time. Because of his positive attitude we know that he is at peace and will be looking forward to our next reunion with him. God bless him...

It was an honor to serve under Skipper Fries. His love for Heavy Two and her Officers and Enlisted men have stayed with us for over 47 years.
He was a member of "America's Greatest Generation"
The Pers/Admin crew - Bob Gaston, Clark Smith, John Argo, Caroline Hawkins (late Ben Hawkins Wife) & Dave Eastman.

I had no idea that Bill had such an illustrious military career, but he helped my wife and I buy our first house in Charlottesville. He represented the seller actually, and we came in without a broker. He was honest, honorable, and when we hit an impass (we had limited funds), he took something off his brokerage fee to make it work. My condolences to his family. Bill was a fine example of a Virginia gentleman.

America is rapidly losing a generation of men who served our nation in some of its darkest days and inspired later generations to give something back for the privilege of living here.
One of those men was Capt. William D. Fries, USN retired. Capt. Fries flew dangerous patrol and bombing missions in the Pacific in World War II, served through Korea and into Vietnam. As commanding officer of Heavy Attack Squadron Two, his undaunted spirit and concern for his sailors served as a guide...

I felt honored to serve under Skipper Fries. God be with you sir.
Jerry Holman, ADJ2

Skipper Fries was always a good friend and "bigger-than-life' type individual. His love of Heavy TWO and all of it's Officer's and Enlisted personnel was felt by each of us. He will be sorely missed. I wish him smooth sailing and eternal rest.

"The Skipper" was a great influance in my career and my life. I'm pretty certain those who went before him are happy to have him once again. He is missed back here.