MSG I.W. McFarland, United States Army, Ret.

I.W. McFarland was born October 8, 1940 at Willisburg, Pennsylvania, and passed away February 14, 2011 at Killeen, Texas at the age of 70.

I.W. served his country in the United States Army for over 27 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. His service include service in the Vietnam War and as a Criminal Investigations Division agent. His many military decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, and multiple awards of the Army Commendation Medal.

After retiring from the Army, I.W. worked for 22 years in the Military Police Investigations Division. I.W. was an avid hunter and fisherman, and loved his dogs.

Funeral services were held on February 17 at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen. In attendance were the Patriot Guard Riders who formed a line of American flags at the entrance to welcome the arriving family and friends. After the services, the Riders led the procession to the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery for interment with full military honors.

The flag draped casket was moved from the funeral coach to the committal shelter by six soldiers of the United States Army Honor Guard. The Patriot Guard Riders then formed a line of American flags along the front of the shelter.

Final prayers were offered by Captain Curtis Hulshizer of the United States Army Chaplain Corps.

Full military honors were rendered by the Army Honor Guard. The six rifle detail fired three volleys of fire, representing Duty, Honor and Country. The Army bugler played taps. The American flag that draped the mahogany casket was folded into a perfect triangle and presented to I.W.’s wife, Ann, on behalf of the President of the United States, the United States Army and a grateful nation, as thanks for I.W.’s many years of faithful service to his country.

I.W. was then laid to rest on the gentle slope of the cemetery, as the American flag flew at half-staff, in his honor, on the hill above.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, two sons, two grandsons, and many other dear family, friends and fellow soldiers.


With thanks to Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home for biographical information.