Bill first travelled to Arctic Village, Alaska in 2003 as part of a tour group led by David Radcliff of New Community Project. It was a tour to learn about the Gwich'in people and their culture. This trip also helped Bill better understand the Church of the Brethren philosphy that he had learned the previous three years. By living with the Gwich'in for nine days, he experienced the struggles of living in this harsh, but beautiful land. Bill 
was permanently bonded with the Gwich'in as a result of risking his life along with two Gwich'in, one who is now the village chief (the lady, Margerie), to bring back much-needed caribou meat to the village one night. Bill choose to stay and help butcher the 5 caribou, even after dark when the threat of bear attacks is at its greatest. Due to global warming, the caribou were not migrating near Arctic Village as much. So, even sighting the caribou was considered a blessing by the Gwich'in. This marked the last time that five caribou have been killed by anyone in Arctic Village in one incident. Bill was honored to witness the Caribou Dance in being called a real Gwich'in for his warroir spirit.
was permanently bonded with the Gwich'in as a result of risking his life along with two Gwich'in, one who is now the village chief (the lady, Margerie), to bring back much-needed caribou meat to the village one night. Bill choose to stay and help butcher the 5 caribou, even after dark when the threat of bear attacks is at its greatest. Due to global warming, the caribou were not migrating near Arctic Village as much. So, even sighting the caribou was considered a blessing by the Gwich'in. This marked the last time that five caribou have been killed by anyone in Arctic Village in one incident. Bill was honored to witness the Caribou Dance in being called a real Gwich'in for his warroir spirit. 
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