7g,
Perhaps you missed the point of the good Colonel's writings....he noted clearly the Cadets were courteous of Bill before they knew of his Medal of Honor but then went to extra efforts to show their respect by improving their effect upon his workload and in other ways after learning of his background.
You might also have missed that Bill, and Army enlisted man, is buried at the US Air Force Academy.
To lead men well, in combat, demands far more of a leader than in any other situation. Maybe you might consider drinking from the chalice you offer...a bit of humility never hurts.
I certainly hope you are not confusing a powder horn with an arsenal?