A week ago today, I received word that Bill Patrick, the elder statesman of America’s biodefense community passed away. Bill was a great American patriot, a valued colleague, a fabulous teacher and a good friend.
During my visits to his home this summer, it was obvious the cancer was destroying his body, but not his incredible mind. He was still teaching me and my colleagues important lessons on how to better defend America against bioterrorism.
I will miss him as a teacher and colleague, but most of all as a good friend. I will miss the martinis on his patio in the late afternoon. Fact is, I don’t particularly like martinis, but I always enjoyed them with Bill and his lovely wife Ginny.
Good-bye my friend. Your body did not survive, but the knowledge, wisdom, and insights you passed along to your many “students” will live on along with your passion for defending America.
Biosecurity Blog 
I had the opportunity to receive some training from William Patrick III around 2003. Despite his lofty stature in the world of Bioterrorism, he was humble, gracious, and humorous. He told me that he was willing to teach anyone if they provided the martinis! His knowledge was amazing and, above all, very practical. Our community has lost a great resource and friend. We will miss you Bill!