William Hathaway facts for kids
William Dodd Hathaway (February 21, 1924 – June 24, 2013) was an American politician and lawyer from Maine. He served his country in many ways, including as a United States Senator and a U.S. Representative for Maine. He also worked as a commissioner for the Federal Maritime Commission, which helps manage shipping in the U.S.
Quick facts for kids
William Hathaway
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| Commissioner of the Federal Maritime Commission | |
| In office February 8, 1990 – November 11, 1999 |
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| Nominated by | George H. W. Bush (1990) Bill Clinton (1993) |
| Preceded by | Thomas F. Moakley |
| Succeeded by | Joseph E. Brennan |
| United States Senator from Maine |
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| In office January 3, 1973 – January 3, 1979 |
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| Preceded by | Margaret Chase Smith |
| Succeeded by | William Cohen |
| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Maine's 2nd district |
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| In office January 3, 1965 – January 3, 1973 |
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| Preceded by | Clifford McIntire |
| Succeeded by | William Cohen |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
William Dodd Hathaway
February 21, 1924 Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Died | June 24, 2013 (aged 89) McLean, Virginia, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Alma mater | Harvard University |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service |  United States Army Air Corps |
| Years of service | 1942–1946 |
| Battles/wars | |
Contents
Early Life and Military Service
William Hathaway was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. When he was young, he served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II.
World War II Heroism
During the war, his plane was shot down while he was bombing oil fields in Romania. He became a prisoner of war for more than two months. For his bravery, he received several important awards. These included the Air Medal, the Purple Heart, and the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Education and Early Career
After the war, Hathaway went to Harvard University. He graduated in 1949 and then earned his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1953. After finishing his studies, he moved to Lewiston, Maine, and began working as a lawyer.
Political Career in Maine
William Hathaway started his political career in Maine. He worked as an Assistant County Attorney and later for the State Liquor Commission.
Serving in the House of Representatives
As a member of the Democratic Party, Hathaway was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1964. He represented Maine's 2nd District from 1965 to 1973. During this time, the Democratic Party became stronger in Maine.
Becoming a U.S. Senator
In 1972, Hathaway ran for the United States Senate. He won against the well-known four-term Republican Senator Margaret Chase Smith. This was a big surprise to many people.
As a Senator, he made important decisions. For example, he was one of only three senators who voted against Gerald Ford becoming Vice President in 1973. A future Maine Governor and Senator, Angus King, worked as one of his aides.
Hathaway ran for re-election in 1978 but lost to William Cohen, who had taken his place in the House of Representatives.
Later Life and Public Service
After leaving the Senate, William Hathaway continued to work as a lawyer and helped people in Washington, D.C.
Federal Maritime Commission
In 1990, President George H. W. Bush appointed him to the Federal Maritime Commission. This commission helps regulate shipping and trade by sea. Hathaway served as the chairman of the commission from 1993 to 1996.
Retirement and Recognition
He retired in 1996 but continued to live in the Washington, D.C., area. In 2002, at 78 years old, he was again awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. This was for his heroic actions during World War II.
William Hathaway was married to Mary Lee Bird for over 61 years. They had two children, Susan and Fred. He passed away in 2013.
Images for kids
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William Hathaway's official Senate portrait.
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William Hathaway (D-Maine) in his official congressional portrait.
