07/17/2024
Yesterday morning, COL Walter William "Bill" Hammerschmidt, USA Ret. passed away. Bill, commonly known as the "Hammer," was the first officer assigned to the 10th PSYOP BN when it was reactivated in St. Louis in 1975 even before there was a BC. Hammer served several tours in the BN over the years and became the Battalion Commander in 1985 through 1988. Bill was very involved in the Army community. He was appointed as an Army Reserve Ambassador and served many years as a Director and Vice President of the Association of the United States Army's (AUSA) St. Louis Gateway Chapter spearheading the annual Soldier of the Year awards ceremony until he stepped down due to health reasons. He was a force to be reckoned with, a mentor, and guiding force to countless Soldiers. His love for the Army was profound and signed each of his emails with, "Have a great Army day!" Sir, you will be missed but your impact will be felt by generations yet to come as the AUSA Chapter has created a lasting tribute by naming the annual ceremony the COL W.W. "Bill" Hammerschmidt Soldier of the Year Awards and affectionately calling them "The Hammer Awards." Until Valhalla.
The visitation and funeral will be held on Monday, July 22nd at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church in Ellisville. Visitation at 1000 with the funeral mass at 1100. The church is located at 15642 Clayton Rd, Ellisville, MO 63011.
