13/07/2026
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our friend Bill Markham, who recently passed away. Bill was not only an exceptional Jumper whose courage and passion never ceased to amaze us, but also a person whose warmth and friendship enriched our lives. As Chapter President, he led the RCPT-USA with the utmost dedication and made it his life’s work to commemorate historical events, as well as to help many comrades share these same valuable experiences and to make them part of the Airborne family.
His love of flying and the boundless freedom he found in skydiving was reflected in his lively personality. He was always ready to take on new challenges and experience the world from lofty heights with a smile on his face. Many of us had the privilege of accompanying him on his jumps or hearing about his exciting adventures.
As a friend, Bill was always very dependable, warm-hearted, and full of life. He gave us strength during difficult times and brought us joy during the happy moments. His energy and optimism will remain unforgotten to us. He was a true leader and a real character who knew how to build bridges, even across the big pond. His presence always filled every room, and he knew how to inspire people with his ideas at all times.
Even though you are no longer with us and it pains us deeply, we know you are in a peaceful place now. And we know you'll make sure that every trooper who asks to enter the gates of heaven is also properly screened using JMPI.
We will miss him dearly, but his spirit and passion lives on in our hearts. We could already feel his spiritual presence these past few days during our jumps at Wings & Friends Air Show in Grenchen. It almost seemed as if he were holding his heavenly, protective hand over us, and each of us landed safely and gently in exactly the right spot. May he rest in peace and always remain free in his beloved clear skies. Bill, you will never be forgotten, and you are always with us in spirit whenever we take to the skies.
With deepest sympathy and thoughts for his family, the RCPT-Suisse team
