ABOUT THIS BLOG

The Daily Nightly began on May 31, 2005. As Brian wrote in his first post it aims to provide a narrative of the broadcast day and a window into the editorial process at NBC Nightly News. Brian weighs in every weekday and NBC News correspondents and producers post regularly.

Brian Williams became the seventh anchor and managing editor in the history of NBC Nightly News on December 2, 2004. Read his full biography.



GEN. WAYNE A. DOWNING, 1940-2007: IN MEMORIAM

Posted: Tuesday, July 17, 2007 6:16 PM by Daily Nightly Editor
Filed Under:

We received word today that Gen. Wayne A. Downing has died. Downing was a brilliant warrior, a true patriot and a great friend. He was also a trusted adviser to NBC News. We will have more here on General Downing's life and career, but in the meantime we wanted to share these photos with you.

NBC News
Gen. Wayne Downing in a U.S. helicopter grounded in the Iraqi desert, March 2003.
NBC News
Gen. Wayne Downing with Brian Williams in Iraq, March 2003.

NBC News
Brian Williams and Gen. Wayne Downing in Iraq, March 2007.

 Editor's note: Click here to WATCH VIDEO of Brian Williams' recollection of General Downing's life and service to the country.

MAIN PAGE

Email this EMAIL THIS

Comments

Condolences to the family of General Downing and to the NBC family as well.  All of America has lost a hero and a dedicated military man.

Joan Chapman, Cheshire, CT. (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:06 AM)

I had the honor to have served with Geneal Downing while he was the commander of USSOCOM at MacDill AFB while assigned in the J4.  He will be greatly missed in the Special Ops arena as well as an analyst for your station.

James E. Clever SSG USA RET, Shippensburg, PA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:09 AM)

General Downing was a great soldier and true patriot.  He will be missed.  

John Willoughby (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:14 AM)

As residents of Central Illinois (halfway b/n Bloomington and Peoria), my husband and I were very proud of General Downing and were so sad to hear of his passing this morning.  He was truly an American hero and will be sorely missed.

Melinda Barry, Secor, IL (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:14 AM)

From one old soldier to another, General, you will be sorely missed.  I'll see you in Heaven, 'cause we have already spent our time in Hell.

John B. Williams, LtCol (Ret), US Army, Marietta, Georgia (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:20 AM)

Sympathy to all in his family and in his military family.

Sherri, Charleston WV (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:24 AM)

I served with GEN Downing when he as CINCSOC at SOCOM.  He took the time time to write handwritten notes of thanks for duty well preformed to many on his staff.  I was so proud of the one I got as a young Captain on a 4 star staff.  He was a great leader and sage.  I am glad to report that like any good soldier, he prepared well in advance for this day by putting his trust and confidence in Jesus Christ at our church in Tampa.  I look forward to seeing him again.

Al Underwood (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:36 AM)

For the past three years, General Downing was my boss at the Combating Terrorism Center. He was without question the most inspiring, knowledgeable, generous and respected man I have ever had the honor of knowing and working with. He will be missed by me, my family, my colleagues, and a grateful nation.

James Forest, West Point, NY (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:41 AM)

I had the honor to meet Wayne Downing as the result of our one connection:  his father was interred in the same U.S. military cemetery in Maargraten, Netherlands as was my cousin. Wayne was the most successful man I've met in my life.

Bud Trader, Mineral Point, WI (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:48 AM)

i think he was grreat analyist for nbc news.he will be missed .just like gen david grange on c.n.n..

colorado springs,co (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:54 AM)

The General was a great and good man. He will be missed, both as a man and a commentator. As Horatio Nelson once said, "Palmam que meruit, ferat."
(His motto: Let him who merits bear the palm.)

Marc Reinhardt, Esq., Plymouth, MA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:55 AM)

I had the priviledge and honor to serve with General Downing on several occasions from the time he commanded the Joint Special Operations Command to his being appointed CINCUSSOCOM.  He was a great commander, compassionate leader and excellent mentor to those who served with him.  I was especially impressed with his analysis of news events following his retirement from the Army.  LTC (Ret) B. J. Gregery St.Louis, MO  

Byron J. Gregery (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 11:05 AM)

I had the distinct honor of working with Gen. Downing on the White House staff after 9/11. He was a man who cared very deeply about his country and about doing the right thing, for the right reasons. He will be sorely missed.

Randy Weaver, Johnstown, PA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 11:06 AM)

God bless his soul and family

Victor McKoy, Washington DC (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 11:15 AM)

I had the honor and privilege to have served on staff with GEN Downing when he was a COL(P) as DCST at HQ TRADOC, Fort Monroe, VA. He was and is the epitome of a leader, I would have followed him anywhere.

Bill Howlett, Henderson, Nevada (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 11:17 AM)

I served with General Downing (The WAD!) three different times when he was a Major, Lieutenant Colonel and full Colonel.  He was a great leader who definitely was a do-as-I-do type of soldier.  My condolences to his family and good friends, and HOOAH for those of us who served with him; the big Ranger is gonna get a good'un!

Steve Bump (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 11:34 AM)

Served with and Supported the WAD from 84 through 2001.  An inspiring leader, mentor and patriot.  We will miss him!

Bob T (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 11:45 AM)

Wayne was one of our dearest friends. He was a mentor and leader for so many in our military. Our hearts break to know that we'll no longer hear his voice and laugh with him about the good old Ranger days when he activated the Regiment at Ft Benning, GA. It was great to be there with him then and years after in other Sp Ops jobs...and in all parts of the world! He was the epitome of the silent warrior. His legacy lives on. Wayne...we'll always love you, buddy!

The Daileys Washington, DC (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:05 PM)

General Downing will be greatly missed.  He is great example of what a true hero is.  My heart is with his family, who have lost a great and admirable family member.  May he rest in peace.

Holly; Hiawatha, KD (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:26 PM)

Two years ago I lost my father suddenly so I understand what the family must be going through.  Gen. Downing was a well spoken analyst and will be missed... by his viewers as well as his family and friends.  God Bless.

Billie Wright, West Covina, CA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:32 PM)

I was always listening to General Dawning's  analysis of the war in Iraq. He was a very knowledgeable military man and was able to present his precise analysis clearly to all of us. He loved the country very much and was objective. It is true that we all die in the long run, but I am very shocked and saddened by his untimely death. My condolences to all his family members.  

Adil Mouhammed, Springfield, IL (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:32 PM)

I served on Wayne Downing's staff in Vietnam, when he was a Major.  He was a wise and thoughtful officer.

Paul Robinson, Frankfort, MI (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:39 PM)

Wayne Downing was a great patriot, who served his country long and well.  In the Williams family, he is also loved and admired for being the great man who accompanied Brian on all his trips to Iraq. When they were forced down in the desert together at the start of the war, Gen. Downing and Brian developed a bond that has stayed strong in the years since. We at home slept easier, knowing Gen Downing was with Brian on those trips.  We will forever remember his wisdom and courage...and I will forever be thankful that he kept my husband safe.  

Jane Williams (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:41 PM)

We lost a great man and patriot!

Harry Hagerty, Class of 62, USMA

Harry Hagerty, Washington, DC (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:51 PM)

I worked for GEN Downing when he was the Deputy Chief of Staff at TRADOC in the early 90s.  He was a true leader, soldier, and statesman.  I, too, would have followed him anywhere.  We're poorer for his passing.

Greg Bradner, Hampton, VA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:56 PM)

My most sincere condolences to the family and close friends of General Wayne Downing. I also served with him in Special Ops. Whenever I needed his assistance, he was there. General Downing was a great American and the epitome of the West Point mission - "To educate, train and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country; professional growth throughout a career as an officer in the United States Army; and a lifetime of selfless service to the nation." We will all miss him dearly.

Marc Thomas, Keller, TX (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:56 PM)

My sympathies to General Downing's family.  My father also has Multiply Myeloma and was in Vetnam.  I assume the General was there to.

Anna

Anna, Maryville, TN (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:57 PM)

General Wayne Downing was a terrific soldier and leader and a true friend.  I was honored to serve under him.  My prayers go out to his family.  We will all miss Wayne.  I'll see him on the other side.

Bruce Fister, LtGen, USAF, Retired (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:59 PM)

I had the privilage of serving under General Downing in both the 2nd and 3rd Ranger Bn.  He was a great leader who inspired the men who served under him.  He lead by example and expected his men to do the same.  My heart goes out to all his loved ones and I wish to express my condolences to each of them.  He will be greatly missed.

Michael N. Day Nulato Alaska (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:02 PM)

How very sad!
I always appreciated his commentary on the war so much.
I send my prayers of condolence and sympathy to his family and loved ones.
He will be greatly missed!
God rest his soul.

Jennie T. (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:11 PM)

Our condolences to the Generals family and NBC family.
It is a sad day to lose such a man.

Valerie Beavers Buffalo, MO. (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:20 PM)

I worked for GEN Downing when he was the Deputy Chief of Staff at TRADOC in the early 90s.  He was a true leader, soldier, and statesman.  I, too, would have followed him anywhere.  We're poorer for his passing.

Greg Bradner, Hampton, VA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:22 PM)

My condolences to his family. I had the honor and privilege of serving with the General when he was a young Lt. and followed his career proudly. He was a soldier's soldier, leader and a true warrior. He will be missed.

Jim Morse, Las Vegas, Nevada (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:26 PM)

God bless General Downing and give His peace to the Downing family.

Huth Family (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:27 PM)

General Downing will be greatly missed. Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with the Downing Family and Friends at this time of their loss. We appreciate the sacrifice and service of General Downing and his family. General Downing's bravery, patriotism, service, honor, integrity can not be understated. He is truly one of America's true heroes. Our nation has suffered a great loss today in General Downing's passing. As the father of a U.S. Army Airborne MP presently serving in Baghdad, Iraq, I thank General Downing for paving the way for the excellent training and leadership that my son has benefited from during his current service. Our Family extends its heartfelt appreciation for the life and service of General Wayne Downing and our prayers and thoughts of support to his Family and friends.

Michael Skelton, Tampa, Florida (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:34 PM)

I am so very very sorry for the family and those who knew the GENERAL. I am mostly sorry for our country who has lost a brillant and shining example of our military men.

marie kesler (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:35 PM)

Wayne and his wife were our neighbors in Colorado Springs for several years.  He was truly one-of-a-kind and we loved him very much.  Wayne was someone who quickly and easily earned my respect...there was an intangible about him in this way unlike anyone I have ever met.  He was incredibly intelligent and full of common sense.  He was a clear thinker and a great listener.  He had a wonderfully dry sense of humor and, as with anyone of pure character, was willing to laugh at himself as well.  He was a rare combination of toughness and caring...a true man in every sense of the word!  Undoubtedly, he has already heard the words, "well done my good and faithful servant!"  This is a sad day for my wife and me and for this country...he will truly be missed.  

Michael Quadhamer, Colorado Springs, Colorado (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 1:43 PM)

God-Country-Family.  He served them all.  He served them well.

Dan, San Diego, CA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:11 PM)

Gen Downing was a mentor, friend and admired soldier. His contributions to Army, Special Operations and Industry will be a legacy never forgotten.  He will be missed by many and his memory will be enduring.  I have received much from him and he will be missed.  Thank you for your service, friendship and leadership.  

John Haluski, Sacramento, CA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:15 PM)

I was saddened to hear of the death of General Downing.Although I never meet him he seemed to me to be an outstanding example of what it means to be an officer & a gentlemen.My condolences to his family.
His wise counsel & experience will be missed.I learned much from him while listening to his succinct analysis on MSNBC.

Dennis Marshall Paterson New Jersey (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:30 PM)

GEN Downing was my mentor, and without question, the best leader I knew during my time in the Army. As a young 1LT, I was a tank company commander for him when he commanded 3rd Bde 1AD in Germany. I served with him again in Tampa at USSOCOM, but his guidance and example have always served me and countless others in life. The only thing I ever taught him was how to shoot a tank, and I'll always remember that look of excitement on his face after returning from his first run downrange. I'll miss you WAD!

John A. Van Grouw, Collierville, TN (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:36 PM)

Rangers Lead The Way Sir. Sua Sponte!

Ranger Green, San Antonio, TX (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:47 PM)

My condolences to General Downing's family. Thank you sir, for your service to our great nation.

Carlos Martinez..United States Marine Corps (Ret)

Carlos Martinez,San Diego,CA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:53 PM)

As our family mourns our loss we will find strength in all the good Wayne has done for our country and our family.  His legacy will live on.  I am proud of the many lives he has touched and will cherish the memories I have as a little girl at family reunions.  God Bless you Aunt Eileen...Wayne will watch over all of us now.  

Kristen Brackett, Aurora, IL. (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:54 PM)

General Downing was a true soldier.  I served with him at Ft. Stewart when the 1/75th Rangers were activated and my husband throughout his days at Ft. Bragg.  He will truly be missed for all that he brought to the Army and his wonderful way of treating people.

Susan Borchini (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:57 PM)

Lest we forget...

Bob Leicht, Oak Ridge, TN (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 2:57 PM)

Brian-
I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of General Downing's death.

The picture that jumped into my mind was of you, Richard and Gen. Downing together in Iraq, reporting on the situation. I referred to you then as NBC's "A" team and indeed, the General was on anyone's "A" team.

His astute analysis will be sorely missed, as will the warmth he projected through the ether to us, the viewers.

My condolences go out to his family and friends. We give thanks for his dedicated service to our country both in the military and in the media.

Celine, JC-NJ (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:03 PM)

I had the honor of meeting the General while serving at Fort Lewis... he was a true soldier, a giant of a man who took the time to answer questions from a very intimidated, lowly sergeant. His words to me "a dumb question is the one not asked", still ring true.

My deepest sympathies to his family, he will be greatly missed.

"Fight on, sir!"

Marion, Anaheim, CA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:05 PM)

I had the honor to shake his hand and hear him speak at my Green Beret award ceremony.  He was one of the few military opinions I trusted during this time of war, as the Bush administration continues the release of misinformation, he was a great soldier and patriot.

Tom McDonough (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:22 PM)

He was intelligent, articulate, and demanding.  He led every organization he he touched to new standards of excellence and demanded that soldiers be taken care of.

Kirk Burton (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:25 PM)



SEND A COMMENT

PLEASE READ: All comments must be approved before appearing in the thread; time and space constraints prevent all comments from appearing. We will only approve comments that are directly related to the blog, use appropriate language and are not attacking the comments of others.

Message (please, no HTML tags. Web addresses will be hyperlinked):

Your name, city and state (John Doe, Seattle, Wash.): 

 Your e-mail address (jdoe@msnbc.com):

Your website (it's okay if you don't have one):

Remember me? (We'll keep it private)

NBC NEWS IN THE BLOGOSPHERE

More Daily Nightly

Recent Posts:

Archives:

Categories:

RECENT STORIES FROM NIGHTLY NEWS

  • Nightly News section front

CONNECT WITH US

About the broadcast | Biographies

RSS is an easy way to get the news you want as it is updated even if you are not on MSNBC.com. More information about MSNBC.com's RSS feeds.

Subscribe to feed

Podcasting brings you audio and video from each weekday broadcast on your iPod or other portable MP3 player anytime, anywhere. More information about MSNBC.com's podcasts.

Subscribe to podcast

Sign-up for our daily e-mail newsletter. It offers a preview of the stories and special reports featured on each weekday broadcast.


Syndicate This Site

Add The Daily Nightly to your news reader:
live.com xml
myyahoo msn
bloglines newsgator
google

MSNBC Weblogs