William L. Ruf (1923-2007)

William L. Ruf enlisted in the Army at age eighteen and served in the infantry in WW II. He began his aviation career in 1955 as the first warrant officer to graduate flight school in Fort Rucker, AL. He culminated his career at Fort Rucker, AL serving as the Standardization and Instructor Pilot as well as the Rotary Wing School Briefing Officer. His awards include: Silver Star, Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, and Air Medal for Valor.

During Mr. Ruf’s 26-year career, he served as an Infantry Squad Leader and Infantry Platoon Sergeant during WWII where he was captured but escaped to rejoin the war. After serving 34 months in the Pacific and at the age of 22 he had risen to the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major in WWII & Korea. As a warrant officer, Mr. Ruf served as a CWO Weapons Instructor and served with the 1st CH-34 unit organization (587th TC), 1st Avn unit deployed overseas, Troop C, 17th Cavalry, and 11th Airborne Division, deployed to Lebanon as TF 201. In 1959, he became an Army Executive Flight Detachment (Presidential Flight) member, serving as the helicopter pilot for four presidents, includes Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy and numerous heads of state. Additionally, he was the first presidential helicopter pilot to fly outside the United States during his tour. Mr. Ruf also served in 11th Air Assault Division, and the Standardization Instructor, Aviation School at Fort Rucker, AL.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 William “Willie” L. Ruf distinguished career in the U.S. Army reflects a commitment to leadership, mentorship, and continued development of the warrant officer community. CW4 Ruf continued to serve, mentor, and train after his retirement in 1967 serving as the Standardization Instructor, and Rotary Wing School Briefing Officer.

Following his retirement from the Service, he became a civilian flight instructor until his final retirement in 1993. During his retirement years, he remained active as a Red Cross volunteer at the Fort Rucker hospital, a tour guide at the Ft. Rucker Army Aviation Museum, and a popular guest speaker at helicopter flight training graduations and other ceremonies at the post. He also served as the principle instructor for all Aviation Branch history classes, instilling in the next generation of Army Aviators their heritage and traditions.

Ruf graduated from Troy University and was an active and supportive member of the Troy State Alumni Association.

His legacy continues to be recognized; in June 2013, 5th Avenue was officially renamed to Ruf Avenue, in July 2015, the U.S. Army Warrant Officer Career College’s Leadership award was renamed to the CW4(R) William L. Ruf Leadership award.