Bill Herrick: A Life of Learning, Writing, and Inspiration

Bill Herrick’s life reads like a narrative of transformation, resilience, and unyielding curiosity—a true Renaissance man who has navigated multiple careers and industries with an enduring passion for learning. From his early days in the United States Air Force to his celebrated teaching career in aviation, and now his work as an author, Herrick’s journey exemplifies a life driven by both purpose and creativity. With a wealth of experiences behind him, Bill Herrick’s current chapter as a writer is not only a continuation of his remarkable career but also a testament to his resilience in the face of personal challenges.

Early Life and Career

Born in Rutland, Vermont on February 27, 1942, Bill Herrick’s upbringing in a small New England town shaped his values and ambition. As a young man, Herrick’s path took him into the United States Air Force (USAF), where he served during the Vietnam War. His military service left a lasting impact on him, and it would later inspire some of his literary works. After leaving the service, Herrick didn’t follow a single trajectory; instead, his life became a journey through various fields and industries.

Herrick earned his Airline Transport Pilot Certificate and pursued his passion for flying. But his career didn’t stop there. His expertise led him to contribute significantly to collegiate aviation education, where he became a revered figure. In 1996, he was awarded the prestigious V. L. Laursen Award for “The Achievement of Teaching Excellence in Collegiate Aviation Education,” a testament to his influence in the field.

Herrick’s career has been defined by a thirst for knowledge and a drive to excel, whether in aviation or beyond. His contributions to the aviation industry and education have left a lasting legacy, particularly at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), where he played a pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation education.

A Turning Point: From Aviation to Writing

In the early 1980s, Herrick’s path took an unexpected turn when he began writing radio commercials for his company. This initial dabbling in writing opened up a new world for him. It wasn’t long before his creativity expanded into music. In 1983, when the Capitol Christmas Tree came from the Chequamegon National Forest in Wisconsin, Herrick had the honor of having a Christmas carol he wrote, titled Christmas Spirit, performed at the tree lighting ceremony. This moment was a significant milestone in Herrick’s creative journey, blending his love for music with his growing interest in storytelling.

Driven by this success, Herrick made a bold move in 1986. He left his quest to become an airline pilot behind and relocated to Tennessee, where he pursued a career in country songwriting. Though his songwriting career didn’t pan out as he had initially hoped, this decision led him to another transformative period in his life—one centered on education.

Academic Accomplishments and Recognition

At 44 years old, Herrick entered Middle Tennessee State University as a freshman. In just five years, he earned four degrees, including a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. This academic achievement was extraordinary, not only because of the breadth of knowledge he acquired but also because of the impact he made as a professor.

Herrick became an Assistant Professor at MTSU, where he is best known as the architect of one of the first Master’s programs in the country related to Airport and Airline Management and Aviation Asset Management. His expertise and innovative approach to aviation education earned him widespread recognition and solidified his place as a respected leader in the field. In 2001, after years of service, Herrick retired from his academic career, but his journey was far from over.

A New Chapter: Passion, Invention, and Family

When Herrick retired from MTSU in 2001, he set his heart on breaking par at the local country club. After five years of dedicated practice and playing golf nearly every day, he achieved this goal at Old Fort Golf Club, a par-72 layout that stretches 6,302 yards from the white tees. Herrick shot a 71 and excitedly shared the news with his children, only to be met with their playful reply: “Dad, we love you, but you must get a life.”

Shortly after, Herrick found love again and moved to New Hampshire, where his sweetheart had a beautiful home on 11 wooded acres. Although it wasn’t Vermont, it offered proximity to family and friends. In 2009, during a winter adventure, Herrick attempted to toboggan down a path on the property with his first grandchild, Lincoln, in his lap. Unable to steer, and with his daughter-in-law concerned for their safety, Herrick took it upon himself to find a solution. After nearly two years of tinkering, by the end of the 2011 snow season, he had invented a device for steering toboggans. Herrick filed for and received a patent, launching Mr. Sleboggan, Inc., to market his invention under the trademark “Sleboggan.” The first model, named “Link 1,” honored his grandson, Lincoln.

Unfortunately, Herrick dissolved the company in 2019 when he learned there was no cure for his Transverse Myelitis condition.

Challenges and Resilience: Living with Transverse Myelitis

In May 2018, Herrick faced one of the greatest challenges of his life when he was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis, a rare neurological condition that affects the spinal cord. This condition left him unable to carry out his normal activities, but rather than succumbing to frustration or despair, Herrick turned to writing once again.

Writing became a means of keeping his mind sharp and his spirit alive. In fact, Herrick made a bold declaration: he would write a book a year for the next ten years. This commitment to creativity in the face of adversity is emblematic of his resilience and determination. Writing has not only provided Herrick with a sense of purpose but has also allowed him to share his wealth of experiences with the world.

Published Works

Herrick’s first book, BB Stackers, is a third-person memoir that chronicles his first two years in the USAF. It provides readers with a vivid account of military life and sets the stage for his second book, The Christmas Spirit Story. This first-person memoir details the twenty-year journey Herrick undertook to introduce his beloved Christmas song to the world.

His third book, Fantastic, is written for his grandchildren and offers a personal and touching glimpse into his life. Herrick’s next project is the sequel to BB Stackers, titled I Remember, which will focus on his final two years in the USAF, including his time in Vietnam. Each of these works reflects Herrick’s deep commitment to storytelling, as well as his desire to leave a lasting legacy for both his family and his readers.

Future Writing Projects

Bill Herrick has ambitious plans for the future. In addition to completing the sequel to BB Stackers, he has ideas for at least three more books. He plans to continue writing about his personal experiences, from his time in the Air Force to his reflections on life as a Vietnam veteran. His tenth and final book will be his autobiography, a comprehensive account of his remarkable life.

Philosophy on Writing and Advice for Aspiring Authors

When asked about advice for aspiring writers, Herrick’s response is simple but profound: “It is not a sin to fail, only a sin if you don’t try.” His writing philosophy is grounded in persistence and resilience—values that have defined his life. Whether overcoming personal challenges or facing professional obstacles, Herrick believes that the key to success is perseverance.

Legacy and Impact

Bill Herrick’s journey from aviation to writing is a testament to his adaptability and lifelong commitment to learning. His ability to pivot between careers, embrace new challenges, and turn adversity into opportunity has made him a true Renaissance man. His work, both in aviation and in writing, continues to inspire those around him.

Despite living with Transverse Myelitis, Herrick remains optimistic and determined to keep creating. His resilience in the face of hardship, combined with his vast array of accomplishments, has solidified his legacy as a man who has lived many lives in one. As he continues to write and reflect on his experiences, Bill Herrick’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of persistence, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge.

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