Brian R. Bill ’01 Memorial Challenge

Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Brian R. Bill ’01

Brian was born on August 23, 1979 in Stamford, Connecticut. He graduated from Trinity Catholic High School in June 1997. He then attended Norwich University, graduating in May 2001 with a degree in electrical engineering, enlisted in the United States Navy in July 2001, and reported to Naval Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois.

In September 2001, he completed basic training and reported to A-school at NATTC PENSACOLA FL for three months. In December 2001, he entered BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) training, one of the most grueling and demanding training programs in the military. Upon graduation from BUDS, Brian proceeded to Advanced SEAL Qualification Training, earning his trident in June 2003.

Brian was assigned to his first permanent duty station, SEAL Team EIGHT in Virginia Beach, Virginia, from June 2003 to July 2007. In July 2007, he began a rigorous selection and training course with Naval Special Warfare Development Group (NSWDG). Nine months after successfully completing this rigorous process, Brian was assigned to one of the Development Group teams. As a US Navy SEAL, he completed numerous deployments around the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism. 

Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Brian Bill was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards, including the Bronze Star Medal with Valor (4), including one for extraordinary heroism, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon (2), Presidential Unit Citation (2), Navy Unit Commendation, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and numerous other personal and unit decorations.

On August 6, 2011, a Chinook helicopter, call sign Extortion 17, was shot down by enemy fire in Afghanistan taking the lives of 30 Americans and one working military dog on board. Brian was one of 17 SEALs aboard that helicopter. He is survived by his loving parents, brothers, sisters, and numerous other family, friends, and teammates.