William T. Mahan (Bill) graduated with a B.S. from Fairfield University in 1952 where he majored in Pre-Law and Government. Entering the U. S. Army on September 9, 1952 during the Korean War, Bill successfully completed Basic Training in the Ordnance Corps at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Aberdeen, Maryland. Within the Ordnance School, he was an instructor of basic electricity, fundamental math, small arms repair/maintenance and he advanced to Course Head of the Small Arms Section of the school, as a Staff Sergeant. On September 8, 1954 he was released from active duty, and transferred to the US Army Reserves where he served until he was honorably discharged in September 1960. In October 1954, after his release from active service, Bill went to work with IBM.
Residing in New City, NY since 1962, Bill is a member of a number of veteran organizations, including the Korean War Veterans as a charter member and was awarded Honorary Life Membership in the American Legion. He has served the community by initiating, chairing and working for the betterment of local veterans and their families. Bill served as Commander of American Legion Post 1682, New City, 1993-94, and Rockland County Commander, 1997-98. He has served as a mentor to other veterans and has been active in membership recruitment for the Legion and the Korean War Veterans. Bill also has held a variety of other positions and served on various committees at the county, district and state level of the American Legion, including his longtime role as vice chairman of the Legion’s State Legislative Committee. In 2011 Bill was elected Rockland County Legionnaire of the Year and Veteran of the Year.
In 2001, Bill was appointed by the Governor to the Board of Visitors at the New York State Veterans Home at Montrose, NY. Bill has served as President of the Board of Visitors for four years and continues to serve actively on the Board. Within his community, Bill is active in coaching baseball, was a Boy Scout Merit Badge Counselor, and is involved in many other civic programs. Bill maintains a long list of awards and recognitions, some of which include: The Congress of the United States of America Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Congressmen Benjamin Gilman; the New York State Veterans Home at Montrose, Recognition and Appreciation Award; as well as the Award of Appreciation from the Office of the Rockland County Executive.
Bill currently resides in Rockland County with his wife of 58 years, Nancy. They have three children and three grandchildren. One grandson is currently serving with the 173rd Army Airborne.
