My name is Edward Lowery, Jr., and I served in the U.S. Navy between 1966 to 1992.

I wasn’t drafted, nor did I enlist. I was an NROTC student at Villanova University and was commisioned an Ensign upon graduation. As a Civil Engineer Corps officer, I was in charge of a 100 man Seabee detachment in Dong Ha. The Seabees are the construction arm of the CEC.

We provided engineering support to all other military on the Dong Ha combat base and were responsible for base construction in any area where our troops need facilities to do their jobs. This included maintenance and repair of the airstrip, providing and maintaining generators for electrical power, maintaining the fresh water purification plant, and small construction projects. Fortunately, I and my Seabees never had to see actual combat, as our role was strictly support. The worst part in Vietnam for me from 1968 to 1969, I guess, was the almost nightly rocket and mortar attacks into the combat base.

My father never shared any WWII experiences, that I can remember. My middle son, who is a veteran of the first Gulf War as well as doing 4 tours in the middle East after 9/11, was also not in a direct combat role. He is a Navy first class petty officer in the Navy Reserves, but is a cop in his regular job.
I don’t think the war experience had any major impact on me or my family. I was one of the lucky ones who came home intact.
~Edward Lowery, Jr., Vietnam Veteran

We are grateful to Edwin for sharing his story with Comes A Soldier’s Whisper, where we remember our history and soldiers, one day at a time.

God Bless all who serve and keep us safe.

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