Edward Clouds was born in Beavers Fall, Pennsylvania and passed away September 27, 2012, at the age of 73. He was a resident of Copperas Cove, Texas at the time of his passing, the result of cancer caused by exposure to Agent Orange. 
Edward proudly served his country in the United States Army for twenty years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. His service included three tours of duty in Germany, and service in Kentucky, Georgia and Texas.
He was a Vietnam Veteran and was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries suffered there. His numerous military decorations also include two awards of the Bronze Star Medal, three awards of the Army Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge.
After retiring, Ed attended Central Texas College and earned numerous certificates that enhanced his 23 year Civil Service Career.
Ed was an avid hunter, mechanic, carpenter and motorcycle enthusiast who rode with the Southern Cruisers Riding Club.
A funeral service was held on October 4 at the Grace United Methodist Church in Copperas Cove. Present were the Patriot Guard Riders who formed a line of American flags at the entrance to welcome the arriving family and friends. The service, presided over by the Rev. Stephen Schmidt, included the rendition of the songs "Amazing Grace", "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" and "How Great Thou Art". After the service, the riders led the procession to the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Killeen, Texas. There the family was welcome by fifty American flags blowing in the brisk Texas wind.
The flag draped casket was carried from the hearse into the committal
shelter by the Army Honor Guard. The Riders formed a line of American flags around the shelter, as the minister said the final prayers.
The Army Honor Guard rendered full military honors. The detail of six rifles fired three volleys of fire, representing Duty, Honor and Country. The Army bugler played taps, as all in attendance stood at attention.
The flag that draped the coffin was carefully folded into a tight triangle and passed to an Army Staff Sergeant, who presented it to Edward's son, on behalf of a grateful nation and the United States Army as a token of appreciation for the honorable and faithful service of MSG Edward L. Clouds, Jr.
MSG Edward L. Clouds, Jr., was then laid to rest next to his dear wife of 48 years, Brigitte, who passed away on November 13, 2008, at the age of 66.
Left to cherish their memory are two sons, one daughter-in-law, four grandchildren, three brothers and a host of other family and friends.
God saw you were getting tired
And a cure was not to be.
So He put his arms around you
And whispered, "Come to me."
A golden heart stopped beating,
Hard working hands now rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes the best.
With thanks to Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home for biographical information and photograph.
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