LT Billy W. Flynn

Billy Flynn was born in Greensboro, NC in January 0f 1943. He attended Page High School, but left high school after two years to enlist in the U.S. Army.

He completed basic training, advanced infantry training, then volunteered for airborne school. Despite his relatively small stature compared to other airborne soldiers, he succeeded and earned his parachutist wings. He also earned his Ranger tab.

Billy later applied to and was accepted into the United States Military Academy Preparatory School (USMAPS) at Fort Belvoir, which prepares enlisted soldiers to meet the academic requirements for admission to West Point. While there, he earned his GED. Billy was admitted to the United States Military Academy (West Point) with the Class of 1966. He earned his commission as an Infantry officer.

Flynn arrived in Vietnam on 18 December 1966, assigned to Company C, 3rd Battalion, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division (“The Old Reliables”). He was killed in action on 23 January 1967, only about 36 days in-country. He was the first of 29 graduates from the USMA Class of 1966 to die in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War.

Flynn is remembered as a patriot who combined ambition, grit, and kindness. He was known for helping others, whether cadets or fellow soldiers, sharing what he knew, and stepping in wherever needed.

His path—from leaving high school, through enlisted service, to Prep School and West Point—stands as testimony to his determination - rising from enlisted service, qualifying as a paratrooper and Ranger, overcoming academic hurdles, and serving with distinction.