Enlists while intoxicated, doubting his courage. Named after Master Sergeant Richards and initially keeps his identity secret. Falls in love with Kit Richards and confesses his fear of parachuting. Overcomes his fear with Richards' help and saves Richards' life. A careless packing incident leads to a brawl with Don Morse, but Bill later cuts tangled shroud lines to save Don during a demonstration jump. Earns his parachute wings and Kit's hand.