I received this over MER-INFO today:
QuoteIt is with deepest regret that I must inform you that my long time friend, Col August William (Bill) Schell, Jr., CAP's National Curator, passed away in his sleep last night. Funeral arrangements have not be finalized yet, but will notify you as soon as they are. David and I are leaving the morning to go to Aberdeen MD (Bill's home). You will be kept informed of any and all plans.
Amanda
AMANDA B. ANDERSON, Lt Col, CAP
MER Director of Administration and Personnel
Many have seen Col Schell's display of historical insignia, ribbons, patches, etc. that he would take all over the country to put on display for members to see. Whoever takes over as the national curator has big shoes to fill. Blue skies, sir.
(http://images.google.com/url?source=imgres&ct=tbn&q=http://stuthewise.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/missing_man_formation.gif&usg=AFQjCNF-EuSLqQj1Phfoh8i-1LCxDsx_NQ)
God Speed Col Schell. It has been an honor knowing you and working by your side at numerous air shows. Your hard work and dedication to CAP's history will never be forgotten.
Enjoy the big patch collection in the sky brother.
Semper Vi.
Bloody shame.
I was in communication with Col. Schell just the other day re: forwarding an archival copy of a unit patch.
I am saddened, I had been communicating with him on the subject of insignia and had no idea.
My deepest condolences and those of the Corpus Christi Composite Squadron.
I had just minutes ago received an e-mail from Bill's daughter, Connie regarding the news of his passing.
Although I had only have the pleasure of meeting up with him once in person, I've "known" him through letters and later e-mails for over 15 years. So this is shocking and saddening news. He was very dedicated to and proud of his possition as National Archives Curator, having just been promoted to full bird last year. The preservation of Civil Air Patrol's history, and in particular uniforms and insignia, had few greater champions than Bill.
Bill has left big shoes to fill in CAP's historical program, and of course he had MANY irons in the fire with various projects and such in progress. I wish all the best of luck to Len and Jim in trying to recoop from the loss of the invaluable resource that he was.
I have a photo of Bill in uniform at home that I'll try to remember to post later, if someone doesn't find one handy sooner.
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Bill Schell. He was a great friend and trusted guardian of our history. He will be missed.
Rick Bowling
I had numerous opportunities to work with Bill on several projects. He was a true professional who loved CAP and the people. He devoted his retired years to putting CAP items together to honor all who have served. He was very passionate and had a wealth of knowledge about our past. I spoke to him on a weekly basis about some of our work and will miss his friendship and conversation.
My prayers are with his family.
I never knew him or met him. My condolences to Connie (his daughter) and family. I have talked with Connie on a number of occastions when she had a stand at the APG PX. She spoke very highly of him and he has my upmost respect. God Speed, COL Schell.
My condolances to his family and friends.
I have been asked several questions about the national collection. The collection is in great hands and things are going well.
Blue skies, Colonel.
Col. August "Bill" Schell, CAP National Curator, passes away
Long time Maryland resident and Wing member
http://www.mdcap.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=article.display&articleID=454
Col. Schell's passing has left a big hole in our organization. He was dedicated to our program and truely cared about it's history.
He now precedes the rest of us in becoming part of the very history he worked so hard to preseve. He will be missed.
Thanks for all you did for us Bill.