I grew up knowing Doug. We went to school together in the town of Glendora, California. (K- 12) He was a gifted athlete that excelled in football. He was a class leader in student government and very capable in the classroom. He was often my partner in junior high dances…even learned the jitterbug from my parents. Doug’s character was strong. He was fearless and courageous, often protective of others. He loved his brother and parents. He brought honor to them in his service to his country. Doug was greatly admired by his high school classmates and teachers. It saddens me that I didn’t have the opportunity to know him as a man. He died too young. He was only married a short time before his plane went down. He would have made a wonderful husband and future father. I hope he was reunited with his parents that preceded him in death. He deserved that happiness.

Kay Carter Gardner, Friend