07/16/2025
Avery Heights Veterans Wall of Honor July/August 2025
EMC Willard F. Bechter
From the quiet streets of West Willington, Connecticut, Willard Bechter charted a remarkable course of service and resilience that began in his senior year of high school in 1963. Answering the call to serve, Willard enlisted in the U.S. Navy and soon found himself aboard the USS Vogelgesang (DD-862), where he spent two years as a skilled electrician—an essential role that kept the ship’s operations running smoothly during turbulent times.
During the Vietnam War, Willard’s ship played a vital support role, providing critical gunfire to assist ground troops and safeguarding aircraft carriers in the Gulf of Tonkin. The Vogelgesang was credited with breaking up a major Viet Cong attack, its guns helping to save lives on shore. The ship’s missions took Willard across the globe, with stops in places like Hawaii, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Athens, Greece, each port adding to his sense of duty and adventure.
Through dedication and technical expertise, Willard rose to the rank of Chief Electrician’s Mate. After his military service, he brought the same commitment to excellence to Pratt & Whitney, where he worked for over four decades in the metrology lab, calibrating equipment that would power the next generation of aerospace innovation.
Among his proudest professional moments were participating in engine tests for the F-15 jet, measuring thrust and witnessing firsthand the evolution of aviation technology.
Yet, behind the uniform and the accolades is a devoted family man. Willard met his wife, Ellie, on a blind date, and together they have just celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary. Their family has grown to include two daughters, two sons-in-law, six grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter - living testament to the love and support that has anchored Willard through every chapter of his life.
Willard Bechter’s journey is a powerful reminder of the quiet heroism found in a life of service—marked by technical skill, personal courage, and an unwavering commitment to both country and family.
We thank Willard Bechter for his service to our country, his citizenship, and his friendship.
