Monday, November 14, 2011

Walter J. Lawrence, Jr., World War II Veteran





Walter Lawrence, Jr. was born March 16, 1923, in Portchester, New York, and passed away September 29, 2011 at Georgetown, Texas, at the age of 88.

Walter proudly served his country during World War II in the United States Army Air Corps as a pilot of C-47 cargo planes. His combat service included the Battle of Burma, the China Offensive and "flying the hump", the name given by Allied pilots to the eastern end of the Himalayan Mountains over which they flew military transport aircraft from India to China to resupply the Chinese war effort of Chiang Kai-shek and the units of the United States Army Air Forces in China. His many military decorations include the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters and the Distinguished Flying Cross with one oak leaf cluster.

Walter left the service as a Captain.

Walter worked as a purchaser for Exxon Mobil for 35 years prior to retiring to Sun City Texas 14 years ago. He led an active lifestyle during his retirement and enjoyed extensive bicycling activities with his Sun City Cyclists friends. He also enjoyed tossing horseshoes and washers and love to play bridge.

Interment services were held on October 7 at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Killeen, Texas. In attendance were the Patriot Guard Riders who formed a line of American flags around the committal shelter during the services.

Final prayers were said by Chaplain Dean Hamilton, followed by military honors by the United States Air Force Honor Guard. The bugler played taps. An American flag was folded into the traditional triangle by the Honor Guard and presented to the family on behalf of the President of the United States, the Department of the Air Force, and a grateful nation for the faithful and dedicated service of Captain Walter Lawrence, Jr.

The urn containing Walter's cremains was then buried at the foot of the hill, atop which flew the American flag, at half-staff, in his honor.

Left to cherish his memory are four sons, a daughter, 11 grandchildren and many other dear family and friends. He was predeceased by his dear wife, Jane Marie, a daughter and his parents.

With thanks to Ramsey Funeral Home for biographical information and photo.

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