Saturday August 11, 2018
US Army, Vietnam Veteran, David Dowden - Susanville, CA 96130
Patriot Guard Riders having been invited by the family of Veteran David Dowden, who died in Susanville, CA at the age of 75.
On a very warm 80-90 degree fire smokey day, 8 PGR attended to show their Respect, pay final Honors and Tribute to our Vietnam Veteran Hero.
I would like to thank the following;
2 PGR from Alturas, CA
1 from Westwood, CA
1 from Reno, NV
4 from the Susanville, CA area.
Thanks to the US Army Honor Guard, The VFW from Susanville, CA.
On July 16, 1943 David was born to parents Donald and Vida Dowden. He was the oldest of four siblings born at Potter’s Maternity Home in Susanville, California. On July 8, 2018 David passed away and went on to be with his beloved wife, Karen Dowden, who passed on June 1, 2013.
David lived a very full life. He was awarded the Purple Heart while on his third tour in Vietnam as a door gunner. He met his wife during his first tour in Vietnam and married shortly after his tour ended when he was honorably discharged for being wounded in combat.
When he returned home, he took pleasure in many outdoor activities, such as fishing, camping and hunting. As time went on, David and Karen settled down and had two children, son, David Kenneth Dowden, on Feb. 17, 1971, and daughter, Martha Jean Allison, on May 28, 1974. David is survived by his two children; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Some about our Hero;
Not neccesarly in the time line order, they happened..
US 6th Army. Served 4 years, with 3 tours in Vietnam. 1961-1968
Served with US 6th Army, Ft Irwin, CA
Sharp Shooter, M-14 rifle.
Marksmenship, M-1 rifle.
Sharp Shooter, Carbine.
Served with Army National Guard in Susanville for 3 years.
Served with Co A 14th BG 4th Bde, Ft Ord, CA
Ft Buckner APO 331 Okinawa, Btry A, 8th Msl bn (Hawk), 1st Arty, APO 331
31G40 TACT COMMO CHIEF
310.00 Fld Commo Crwmn
Medals and Commendations;
NDSM
VSM
VCM W/60 DVC
AM
PH
5 O/S BARS
ACFT CRMN BADGE
VN CROSS GALLENTRY
Thank You David Dowden for your Service to our Country.
May you rest in peace Sir..
Your Mission is complete.
PGR Ride Captain
Susanville, CA
Blake "Burnout"
blake@norcalpgr.org
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