William C. McCool
Born September 23, 1961 in San Diego, California. William C. McCool received a bachelor of science degree in applied science from the U. S. Naval Academy, a master of science degree in computer science from the University of Maryland and a master of science degree in aeronautical engineering from the U. S. Naval Postgraduate School. McCool and his wife, Lani, have three sons, Sean, Christopher and Cameron.
Commander McCool was a test pilot and was awarded two Navy Commendation Medals and two Navy Achievement Medals. He has over 2,800 hours flight experience in 24 aircraft.
As an astronaut William McCool was initially assigned to the Computer Support Branch and then served as Technical Assistant to the Director of Flight Crew Operations.
McCool served as the pilot on Columbia STS-107. The mission ended abruptly when space shuttle Columbia and its crew perished during entry, 16 minutes before its scheduled landing.
William C. McCool made the ultimate sacrifice and lost his life in service to the national and the space program on February 1, 2003 at 41 years of age.
Commander McCool was a test pilot and was awarded two Navy Commendation Medals and two Navy Achievement Medals. He has over 2,800 hours flight experience in 24 aircraft.
As an astronaut William McCool was initially assigned to the Computer Support Branch and then served as Technical Assistant to the Director of Flight Crew Operations.
McCool served as the pilot on Columbia STS-107. The mission ended abruptly when space shuttle Columbia and its crew perished during entry, 16 minutes before its scheduled landing.
William C. McCool made the ultimate sacrifice and lost his life in service to the national and the space program on February 1, 2003 at 41 years of age.
