Our reporting on local veterans is a collaboration with RyeVets.org to highlight those from Rye who have served our country across times of war and peace. There are over 2,100 veterans from the City of Rye. Learn more about how you can help research and write biographies of those that have served.
Thomas C. Donahue Jr. was born on May 27, 1921. He lived with his parents and his 10 siblings on 37 Elm Street. Thomas graduated from Rye High School in 1939. He enlisted into the army in 1942 as a Private. Thomas and his family were active members of the Rye community, such as being part of the Church of Resurrection. Thomas’ father worked as a carpenter. In school, Thomas did a number of notable activities over the course of his education. He participated in the Drivers’ Club, he was a Junior Coach, he was a Co-Manager of the Football team, and he participated in the “Hitching Post.”
Date of Birth: 27 May 1921
Died on: 31 Oct 1963
Street Address: 37 Elm Street
Service Number: 32510326
Branch of Service: U.S. Army
Thomas enlisted into the army on September 23rd, 1942 as a Private. He would serve the Army Battery D in WWII. In the war, Thomas was a part of a anti-aircraft unit which were considered to be “separate” battalions, or “independent” battalions. There were many different types of “independent” battalions, including several different types of anti-aircraft artillery. They were “independent” because they were not an official part of any larger formation (sometimes they were called “bastard battalions” – no parent unit).
After the war, Thomas got married to Patricia Arnold. Together, they had four children: Thomas, Patricia Ann, Dawn Marie, and Stephen. On October 31st, 1963, Thomas passed away at his home in Waverly. More on Donahue.
