California’s War Dead

    David L. McDowell

    David L. McDowell, 30

    Army, Sergeant 1st Class
    Bastion, Afghanistan
    Gender: Male
    Hometown: Ramona
    He started playing Army when he was 3 years old--and he kept doing it. We kind of thought he'd grow out of it, but he never did. He had his whole life planned out.
    — Laurie Wathen, mother

    Always athletic, McDowell was an avid surfer and skateboarder and was known for his unbridled curiosity and sharp sense of humor. He was serving his seventh deployment in either Afghanistan or Iraq at the time of his death.
    Times obituary
    « Jonathan A.V. Yelner, 04/29/2008
    William T. Dix, 04/27/2008 »
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    Seven memories of David L. McDowell

    I didnt know SFC McDowell had passed until I was checking this list.
    Just let his family know that he was brave and a Great Leader!
    I will see you one day Ranger and when I do, We will make that last jump together!
    Rangers Lead the Way!

    — Ranger 1
    December 29, 2008 at 3:11 p.m.
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    I didn't know or serve with you 2nd bat. brother, but I shed a tear today for your incredible service (7combat tours!!!), and ultimate sacrifice. What you gave is incomparable. RLTW

    — Gavin Grayson
    May 31, 2010 at 5:50 p.m.
    Permalink

    I just wanted to let you know that you will NEVER be forgotten. Your leadership and the lessons that you taught will be with me (and others that you led on the field of battle) forever. "One for the Airborne Ranger in the Sky"!!!
    RLTW

    — PV4 Evans
    June 9, 2010 at 12:50 p.m.
    Permalink

    Miss you buddy, so very proud t be your Father and to know you as a brother! Dad

    — Steve McDowell
    November 22, 2010 at 4:49 p.m.
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    Miss you baby brother! You will forever be our Hero and will never be forgotten! Becky

    — Becky
    December 20, 2010 at 10:15 a.m.
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    From crushing me as my pre ranger cadre, to spending time holed up in a Stryker. I will never forget you as a brother, mentor and leader. I still pray for your family, and remember daily. RLTW

    — -Chase
    April 26, 2011 at 3:34 p.m.
    Permalink

    Dave, You really inspired me to be a better leader of men based on your example. You were a man who gave so much for so few and will always be remembered for that. You are my Airborne Ranger in the Sky! RLTW!

    — Chad H.
    April 28, 2011 at 9:10 a.m.
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    Sources: Times research, Defense Department, iCasualties.org
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    California's War Dead is the Los Angeles Times' collection of stories about the 700 California servicemembers and 474 others based in California who died during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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