William ‘Bill’ C. Jackson
Class of 1986, #11
William ‘Bill’ C. Jackson
1925–2016, England
William ‘Bill’ C. Jackson was a prolific figure in the towing and recovery industry as an inventor, dealer, instructor, author, and international liaison. He began his career in the industry as a car dealer (working for Chaseside Motor Company Ltd. as a managing director from 1947 until 1959) in the United Kingdom after World War II and purchased an Ernest Holmes Co. wrecker. After using the vehicle, he visited Chattanooga and became the international liaison for Ernest Holmes Co. dealerships across the globe, serving as president of Dial Holmes Ltd. (UK) from 1960 until 1971. Mr. Jackson was the inventor of the air cushion system, which was utilized in accidents to help get individuals out of their cars safely and efficiently. Later in his life, he founded Wreckers International Ltd. in Florida in 1972 and served as president for many years. He was also the first instructor for recovery operations and authored eight books about the industry.
Inducted: June 26th, 1986
Born: February 18th, 1925 – London, England, United Kingdom
Family: Cicely Mary Jackson (wife); Bruce (son), Mark (son)
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HALL OF FAME NOMINEE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Tow Equipment/Product Innovation
Innovation of a product sold in the marketplace that has helped move the industry forward. Candidate must have a minimum of 10 years of service to the industry.
Exemplary Dedication
Candidate must have 20 years running a towing business in an outstanding and exemplary manner, promoting a positive image of the towing industry and have positive relations with the community, i.e., performing services for the community about and beyond the services for hire. Limit: One inductee per year.
Industry Leadership
Leadership involved with an outstanding project that has had a dynamic and lasting effect on the towing industry. Candidate must have minimum 10 years service to the towing industry.
Professional Achievement
Creating a product or service of any kind that has had a significant and lasting effect on thousands of towing professionals. Candidate Must have a minimum of 10 years to the industry.