JOHNSTON, Iowa — U.S. Navy Lt. William “Gilly” Halling of Perry walked out of freedom’s front door Friday when he retired after 25 years of service in the armed forces.
In the course of his long career, Halling served with his fellow seamen on such noble ships as the aircraft carriers USS Carl Vinson and USS Ronald Reagan, and he ended his term of service in Johnston as the Operations Officer in the 1st Battalion, U.S. Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).
“Thanks to the MEPS Team,” Halling told his fellow service members Friday. “Was a great run. Thanks so much, everyone.”
As a token of respect for their departing colleague, Halling’s comrades in arms presented him with a handsome shadow box, made by T2 Woodworks of San Diego, where he spent a lot of time on base over the years.
Saturday brought further festivities for Halling in his hometown, where his family and friends gathered for a reception at La Poste.
“Thank you for your service, Gilly.”
