William “Bill” Reid, a retired jeweler of Pine Bluff, will review “Halsey’s Typhoon,” a true story by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin, at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 28. The book review will be held in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church, 6501 Hazel St.
“‘Halsey’s Typhoon is a gripping true tale of courage and survival against impossible odds — and one of the finest untold World War II sagas of our time,” according to a news release.
“In the final days of 1944, Admiral William ‘Bull’ Halsey is the Pacific theater’s most popular and colorful hero. After a string of victories, the ‘Fighting Admiral’ and his 30,000-man Third Fleet are charged with protecting General MacArthur’s flank during the invasion of the Philippine island of Mindoro,” according to the release. “But in the midst of the landings, Halsey attempts a complicated refueling maneuver and unwittingly drives his 170 ships into the teeth of a massive typhoon.”
The reviewer, Reid, grew up in Pine Buff, after moving from West Texas in 1940. He graduated from Pine Bluff High School and the University of Arkansas before attending Navy Officer Candidate School at New Port, Rhode Island. Upon graduation he was commissioned an ensign in the U.S. Naval Reserve. He is a retired Navy commander. He served on active duty for three years aboard two ships home ported in San Diego, according to the release.
Reid joined the family jewelry business, becoming owner and manager of Reid-Vining Jewelers with stores at Pine Bluff and Little Rock. He served on the board of two leading national jewelry associations, was president of the National Council and the Arkansas Jewelers Association. He retired after 43 years in the jewelry industry, according to the release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Reid is a member of First Methodist Church, where he teaches a Sunday School class and has served in almost every capacity and lay position in the church.
Reid was married to the late Floradel Green of San Diego, Calif. They have three three daughters, four grandsons, and one granddaughter.
The public is invited to the review. Door prizes and refreshments will be furnished following the session.