James Ray DowdyPrivate First ClassD CO, 4TH BN, 31ST INF RGT, 196 INF BDE Army of the United States 02 June 1947 - 03 May 1967 Granite City, IL Panel 19E Line 023 |
 
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The database page for James Ray Dowdy
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I remember Ray only from photos now and my (5 year old) memory of a casket covered in glass cold to the touch as it was refrigerated ... I was not sure why that was, then, however I understand now.
My memory is of holding my Aunt's hand as Taps played on the hillside of that graveyard and the firing of the guns. With each shot she gripped my hand tighter and tighter ... I will never forget the pain of her keys crushing into my little hand and remembering that I should take the pain and remain quiet for Ray...
When I joined the Air Force I remember my mother not being happy about it - she said "You want to get killed like Ray did??" Well, after a long career of 20 years I am now retired from the Air Force and salute Ray's service now more than ever... for he paid the ultimate price for our freedom. |
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The point-of-contact for this memorial is his cousin, Jerry L. Dowdy, USAF(Ret) E-Mail may be forwarded via the Webmaster@VirtualWall.org 21 Nov 2002 |
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With all respect
Jim Schueckler, former CW2, US Army
Ken Davis, Commander, United States Navy (Ret)
Channing Prothro, former CAP Marine
Last updated 11/21/2002