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Edward Joseph Downey, Jr
Private First Class
L CO, 3RD BN, 4TH MARINES, 3RD MARDIV, III MAF United States Marine Corps Willimansett, Massachusetts June 04, 1946 to April 11, 1968 EDWARD J DOWNEY Jr is on the Wall at Panel 49E, Line 21 |
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Though his name was Edward, I only knew him as Butch, my name sake. I never got to meet him, he died before I was born, but I know he was a great man. He was my father's best friend. They grew up together, got in trouble together, both are Devil Dogs, and now they are in heaven together. He got his nickname 'Butch' because of his size. He was a short guy, but as my Dad described him, "Build like a brick outhouse". My father would bring me to visit his beloved sister from time to time when I was a kid, so she could see his namesake. I've always been proud of this man I never met. Honor, courage, commitment, integrity, he had it all. I still have his dress blues. I used to get into them (when they still fit, I'm a lot taller) and imagine being a Marine like him and my Dad. I'm currently serving my country in the US Navy, with 4 years til retirement. Though the Wall directory shows him as 49E 021, he was a son, a brother, a best friend and a Marine. I'm proud to carry the same nickname as a hero. Thank you, Butch, we love and miss you!
From his namesake and best friend's son, |
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