The Story Behind the Stone | William H. Acebes

Command Sergeant Major (Dec.) William “Bill” H. Acebes (August 1945-November 2021) devoted 33 years of his life to serving the Nation, the Army, and the Ranger Regiment. He began his military career as a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vietnam, serving in combat before later joining the Berlin Brigade during the height of the Cold War. Upon returning to the United States, he served with the 82nd Airborne Division and earned his Ranger Tab in 1972, setting the course for a career that would leave a lasting impact on generations of Rangers.

In 1974, Bill became a plankholder of the newly activated 1st Ranger Battalion at Fort Stewart, Georgia. As one of the Rangers who helped build the modern Ranger Regiment from the ground up, he served in virtually every enlisted leadership position, from squad leader to First Sergeant. Following service with the 10th Special Forces Group in Germany, he returned to the Regiment, leading C Company, 1st Ranger Battalion, during Operation Urgent Fury. He would go on to serve as Regimental Chief Intelligence NCO, Command Sergeant Major of the 1st Ranger Battalion, and Command Sergeant Major of the 2nd Infantry Division before retiring on 1 June 1995 as the Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Infantry Center at Fort Benning.

In 2003, Bill’s exemplary career and lifelong dedication to Rangers were recognized with his induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame, one of the Regiment’s highest honors. The induction celebrated not only his combat service and leadership, but also his instrumental role in shaping the modern Ranger force and mentoring countless Rangers who followed in his footsteps. His contributions continued to be recognized throughout his life, including receiving the Doughboy Award in 2011 and being named a Distinguished Member of the 75th Ranger Regiment Association, the 503rd Infantry Regiment, and the Airborne and Ranger Training Brigade.

To those who served alongside him, Bill was more than a decorated soldier. He was a leader, mentor, and Ranger whose example set the standard for others to follow. His legacy lives on in the Regiment he helped build, the Rangers he trained and led, and the enduring values of service, leadership, and selfless commitment that defined his life.

Rangers Lead The Way.