In Memory OfLT Jay R. Manown Jr

LT Jay R. Manown Jr., 26, U.S. Navy, born in West Virginia January 19, 1918, was killed in action on September 10, 1944. Manown was a TBM-1C Avenger Pilot with Navy Torpedo Squadron 20 in WWII. While on a pre-invasion bombing run near Palau, he was shot down by anti-aircraft fire over the Pacific. MIA for 76 years, Manown was identified via DNA when "Project Recover" pulled the wreck from the depths of the Philippine Sea. For his service, he earned a Purple Heart and the Distinguished Flying Cross. Fair winds and following seas, Airman! Til Valhalla, Brother!