The Flying Bridge Syndrome

The flying bridge is a naval term for the topmost part of a ship. Midshipmen are taught that the flying bridge is emblematic toward always seeking ones best and striving for the top.

You will join Captain William R. O’Gara on his personal, exclusively exciting, and one-of-a-kind life experiences. He was a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, US Navy captain, and outstanding traveler. And how he dealt with the evolving and dreadfully persevering complications of Alzheimer’s disease for fifteen years all epitomized the flying bridge syndrome of success.

Honored as a graduate marine engineer in 1950, recipient of the Distinguished Graduate Award from the US Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), and business degree recipient of Wharton Business School (University of Pennsylvania, MBA) and New York University (MPA) prepared him to cofound two undeniably unique and successful businesses, the Prison Health Services and Ships Parts Inc.

USMMA (Kings Point) was a lifelong focal point for the O’Garas’ generous philanthropy, establishing a unique and highly valued scholarship, the O’Gara Honor Society, and presenting Alzheimer’s cultural educational programs to the USMMA midshipmen.

William’s quick wit, sense of humor, enviable business successes, exciting experiences, plus a genial face-off with Alzheimer’s disease were constantly framed by a subtle, underlying love story of his wife’s steadfast devotion.