William (Bill) H. Tyler III, who passed away August 13, 2024, was an enthusiastic and engaged supporter of the Naval Postgraduate School. More importantly, he was enthusiastic about the students and their families and the contributions they make to our national security.
Bill joined the Naval Postgraduate School Foundation Board of Trustees in 2016 and remained active in this role until the last few months. As a former pilot and missile project officer in the U.S. Air Force, Bill understood firsthand the importance of the many initiatives of the NPS Foundation & Alumni Association. He was truly committed to the student officers at NPS and enjoyed the many interactions with them during his time with us.
In early 2023, Bill supported the creation of The William H. Tyler Award for Innovation in National Security Studies to recognize innovative work by student officers, working individually or as a team, whose research highlights the importance of innovation, collaboration and adoption of solutions related to national security. Bill made it a point to personally present the Tyler Award each quarter that it was presented and to connect with the recipients. The NPS Foundation, administrator of the award fund, is honored to continue presenting the award for Bill who wished for the Tyler Award to be of indefinite duration.
With his wife Susanne by his side, the Tylers also supported many other local causes over their years in Pebble Beach. From their impactful support of the Tyler Heart Institute at Montage Health to the Carmel High School Foundation, Carmel Public Library Foundation, and Carmel Bach Festival, Bill and Susanne shared their time and joy for these important local causes.
We will miss Bill’s presence at the NPS Foundation functions he so enjoyed. His smile and warm personality always added to the atmosphere of the events. We are certain that his philanthropic spirit will live on through his family and through the many ways he impacted our Monterey and Pebble Beach communities. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Susanne, their children and grandchildren, and their family and friends.
