In 1978 Susan Reinert applied for an exchange teaching position in England on the Fulbright-Hays program. In December of that year, she also attempted to buy a life insurance policy from the USAA Company for $500,000, naming William Bradfield as its beneficiary. As Wambaugh wrote, "The insurance company denied her application on the grounds that such a large policy would overinsure her life."

Reinert confided some exciting news to a close friend in March 1979. Bill had finally asked her