Warrior -> (9/26/2001 4:57:00 AM)
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Colonel "Wild Bill" Wilder has been a constant inspiration to me. As a newbie to SPWaW about a year ago, I played the game arcade-style, with all ammo limitations, etc., turned off. And I loved the game! I played for hours every day! Slowly, slowly, as I learned more about the game , I also began checking in here at the Forum, and soaked up a lot of knowledge from Wild Bill's posts. Eventually, I began to post myself, and emailed WB directly about a couple of minor matters. He was always patient and helpful. When the North African Mega Campaign was getting started, he asked if I'd like to be a tester, since I had already begun to do testing "independently" as a way to see new scenarios first.
What a job! Hundreds of scenarios, numerous revisions, and at the same time testing the new version of the game. Through it all Bill was there with a helping hand or advice when needed.
Well, a lot of water has flowed beneath the bridge since then. I now play the game with all the default preferences on, I learned how a "real" tester works, and with Bill's help have begun to design my own scenarios. (Of course, there are many other SPWaW'ers who also helped, but Bill has been, and remains, my number one Guru.) On his recommendation, I was asked to become a member of the Raider's Arsenal, which I consider a high honor. And when the New Mega Campaign was in the works, Bill asked me to be a Team Captain. Frankly, I was overwhelmed that he would consider me for the job. I didn't think I had it in me, and that I was still too much the "newbie," even after a year.
This new Mega Campaign will be the crowning achievement of Wild Bill's time at Matrix. I guarantee you'll like it when it's ready. North Africa and the East Front are both excellent, but this new one - it's a leap ahead!
Bill, for all your help, I thank you. For the time and energy you've devoted to this game, I thank you. And I especially thank you for always being a friend, when I had no reason to expect that. I suppose it helps that we're both older duffers!
Whatever you do in the future, and whichever trail you might take, be sure I'll be there if you can ever use my help for anything. Matrix is losing a premier asset, but I have a feeling WB won't be able to stay away.
Bill, you made SPWaW come alive for me in ways I may never have discovered on my own. Stay well.
[ September 25, 2001: Message edited by: Warrior ]
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