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Home  Web of Dowds LtCol John Aloysius Dowd |
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Written by Steven Dowd
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LtCol John Aloysius Dowd was born in Orange, New Jersey, on September 23, 1931. Jack, as he was to be called, was the only child of Margaret and Aloysius (Al) Dowd. During his formative years, he was raised in the predominantly Irish community of Kearny, New Jersey. He attended St. Cecelias Parochial Elementary School and Seton Hall Preparatory High School.
As a youngster, Jack was very active in the local Boys Club and other youth activities. As a teenager, he was a baseball and basketball coach with these youth activities.
In 1949, Jack Dowd entered the Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy. He remained at the Academy until 1952, when he resigned to join the United States Marine Corps. Jacks leadership abilities were quickly recognized by the Marine Corps and he was subsequently commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps. Upon graduating from the Marine Basic School, Jack married Barbara Hebbe on August 16, 1953.
Throughout Jacks career, he continually demonstrated the unique ability to capture the minds and imaginations of those who came in contact with him. His enthusiasm was contagious and his innovativeness far exceeded that of his peers. As a Marine Corps recruiting officer, he instituted programs that benefited the Marine Corps, belied the fears of parents and challenged the able bodies of New York Citys youngsters. While on recruiting duty, Jack initiated a physical fitness competitive program at the high school level which grew to receive national recognition. At its height, the program reached 48 of the 50 states with more than 200 high schools participating. The program suffered a setback over the years but was renewed in 1982 as a program worth having.
As a Marine, Jack served in a variety of positions. His assignments followed the career path of an up and coming officer. In 1966, Jack was assigned to Headquarters Marine Corps. He and his family moved to Woodbridge, Virginia, where he became active in his community. In 1968, Jack was assigned to the Marine Corps 1st Division Headquarters in Danang, Vietnam. He subsequently assumed the command of the 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. Jack Dowds leadership as the Battalion Commander was unequaled. As the Commanding Officer of a Marine infantry battalion, Jacks personal courage and leadership were recognized by his men and seniors. His actions were in the highest tradition of the Marine Corps; his personal decorations include the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Silver Stars; the American Legion of Merit; the Bronze Star; the Silver Star; and the Naval Services second highest award, the Navy Cross. Jack was awarded a Purple Heart when he was killed in action on August 13, 1969.
While his exploits as a Marine will long be remembered, he will be remembered most for the zest for life that he demonstrated. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, his daughters, Kathleen, Margaret, and Maureen, and his sons, Mark, Scott, and Sean. Those of us who knew him shall never forget.
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