Background
Thomas, William Brinker was born on October 22, 1947 in Thermopolis, Wyoming, United States. Son of William Charles and Virginia Ruth (Nyswander) Thomas.
Thomas, William Brinker was born on October 22, 1947 in Thermopolis, Wyoming, United States. Son of William Charles and Virginia Ruth (Nyswander) Thomas.
Bachelor of Science, United States Coast Guard Academy, 1970. Juris Doctor cum laude, University Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, 1977. Master of Laws in Admiralty, Tulane University, 1983.
Commissioned ensign United States Coast Guard, 1970. Deck watch officer United States Coast Guard Cutter RUSH, San Francisco, Vietnam, 1970—1972. Assistant readiness officer 13th Coast Guard District, Seattle, 1972—1974.
Assistant legal officer 1st Coast Guard District, Boston, 1977—1980. Assistant chief investigations department Coast Guard Marine Inspector Office, New Orleans, 1980—1983. Senior assistant legal officer 8th Coast Guard District, 1983—1985.
Advanced through grades to Commander, 1985. Trial attorney Civil Division, Admiralty Section, United States Department Justice, Washington, 1985—1987. Chief legal administration division Coast Guard Headquarters, from 1987.
Trustee administrative board Gretna United Methodist Church, Gretna, Louisiana, 1984. Member of American Association For Justice, American Bar Association, Maritime Law Association United States (associate), Delta Theta Phi (president 1976-1977).
Married Barbara Tousley, June 5, 1976. Children: Rachel Nyswander, Rebecca Tousley.