Susan Davis: “Major General William Gourley was truly a soldier's soldier. His long and storied career can be summed up by the motto…”

“Major General William Gourley was truly a soldier's soldier. His long and storied career can be summed up by the motto he took with him across the Army to every unit he commanded: ``Soldiers first.'' He insisted that support of the military must focus on the needs of soldiers, and this mantra soon became the standard across the entire Army personnel community. After more than 30 years in uniform, General Gourley continued fighting for the well-being of soldiers and their families. His bigger- than-life persona and caring nature endeared him to Active Duty soldiers and veterans alike, and he could often be seen at the former Fort Ord--at the commissary or at the PX--inquiring as to how servicemembers were and as to how he could help them. He was a fixture at the local VA clinic, but dreamed of a larger facility that could seamlessly integrate care over the life of a soldier. It was this desire, coupled with his penchant for helping others, which led him to play an instrumental role in the planning and development of the soon-to-be joint VA-DOD hospital. It would only be fitting to see this new and innovative facility named after a true American hero. I reserve the balance of my time.”