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

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

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General Wayne Downing was an outstanding leader, and his support of Air Force Special Operations folks as well as the Theater Special Operations Commands was outstanding.  Not only has the special operations community suffered a great loss, the nation has as well.  

Hanson Scott, Brigadier General, USAF (Ret) (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:32 PM)

I am shocked and saddened to learn of General Wayne Downings passing. I always looked forward to his views and analysis of the current situation. My sympathies to his family and NBC

Jane Rogan, Miller Place NY (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:41 PM)

He was my Battalion Commander when he was a LTC in the 2nd Ranger BN in the late 70's.  A great man and great loss.

GJT

George J. Tolbert, Anchorage, AK (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:50 PM)

Having served with Gen. Wayne A. Downing Jr. while he served as the 75th Infantry Ranger Regimental Commander (the third Col. or the Regiment) at Ft. Benning, I can only convey my deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.  He was the greatest leader and military commander that I ever had the pleasure to have served with and our Country let alone the military community has lost a great warrior and leader amoung men.  May God bless his soul and may he rest in peace.
Rangers Lead the Way Sir! ~S~

David Beadle, Medford, Oregon (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 3:58 PM)

Gen Downing was a Rangers Ranger. He never forgot where he came from in the ranks. You can always tell the great leaders when they are praised by those they have led. I have never heard a bad word against him. I always stood taller in his presence as one of his Rangers. Rangers lead the Way Sir!

Greenway, Columbus, GA. (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:10 PM)

RLTW Boss, see you on the high ground

J.R., Huntsville, Alabama (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:18 PM)

Wayne was a real hero and patriot.  He helped with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial when he served with the Bush Administration.  He and I kept in touch and he always was willing to give advice and help.  He was a leader and a man you could count on each time every time!

Jan Craig Scruggs (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:20 PM)

I served on Okinawa in the 60s with young leutenant Downing, he was my commander in the 2d Ranger battalion in the 70s, and worked with him on several occaisions till his passing. No finer man, commander, or life long friend ever lived. My comdolances to the family, we will miss you greatly sir.

Steve Mattoon, Casper, WY (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:30 PM)

I had the pleasure and honor to work for General Downing on two occassions, the last at U. S.Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, NC.  One of the soldiers on the HQ Staff gave him a black baseball cap with "Wayne's World" emblazoned on the front.  He wore it proudly and often, to the delight of the soldier who gave it to him.  He presided at my Retirement Ceremony on January 28, 1993.  He was very gracious to my wife and parents and took precious time out of a full schedule for an office call with them before the ceremony. I was taken back by the news of his death.  Just knowing he was still there serving in some capacity, was an assurance that this fight would be won. General Wayne Downing will be dearly missed by all of us who knew him; moreover, he will be missed in this current fight.  My deepest and most sincere sympathy to his family and the NBC News staff - we were more because of him and now all less without him.

LTC Stan Prichard, Special Forces, USA Retired, Dallas, Texas (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:30 PM)

I always looked forward to his commentary. He was independent and did not go along with what people wanted him to say. He was an asset to his country and will be missed.

Harriet , Texas (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:35 PM)

I first met Gen Downing when he was a Brigade Commander in the 1st Armored Division.  A vehicle of mine threw a track downrange, in the Grafenwöhr impact zone, thus shutting down his tank gunnery range. As I passed the Range 10 tower, I was informed that "Kong 6," Downing's radio 'handle,' wished to speak with me.  The red lit tower was filled with approximately 30 soldiers, all of whom 'parted' like Moses' Red Sea to let this sacrificial lieutenant pass when I entered.  Fearing the worse, I was relieved when the Colonel returned my salute after I reported the situation and simply asked, "Okay, LT, how are we going to solve this problem?"  Later, the General was most gracious to even provide me an endorsement for one of my published works.  Not only was he a quintessential Warrior, he was also a class act.  RLTW, Sir!

JD Lock, Marlboro, NJ (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:42 PM)

I only knew of him through his reports for NBC. I have always been impressed with his ability to explain the complexities of military life to those of us who have never experienced them.

My condolences to his family and to all of his colleagues at NBC. As a viewer, I will definitely miss him too.

Lynn G., Minneapolis, MN (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:46 PM)

My thoughts & prayers go out to Gen Downing's family!!! May this true soldier rest in peace!!!! I enjoyed listening to him on the Iraq war!!! I was saddened to hear of his passing!!

Kathy Welter, Okoboji, Ia (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:46 PM)

My condolences to the family of General Wayne Downing and I am so very sorry for the loss of such a great man. I do recall Mr.Williams when General Downing spoke with you and Richard in Camp Victory and talked about the war. I know the NBC family will miss him terribly. Again, I am so deeply sorry.

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:50 PM)

My condolences to the General's family.  I served with him at HQ USEUCOM and he inspired me enought to have him re-enlist me for the first time and continue on for 21 years.  You will be missed!

Ken Bero, Belair, MD (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 4:55 PM)

I served on Okinawa in the 60s with young leutenant Downing, he was my commander in the 2d Ranger battalion in the 70s, and worked with him on several occaisions till his passing. No finer man, commander, or life long friend ever lived. My comdolances to the family, we will miss you greatly sir.

Steve Mattoon, Casper, WY (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:02 PM)

Brian,

I am a West Point classmate and company-mate of Wayne’s, and we were close.  I was in email contact with him just a week ago about us seeing each other at the upcoming reunion this September at West Point for the great class of 1962.  We referred to ourselves as “Selrahc” and “Enyaw”  (first names backwards), kind of silly, but it was in reality our personalized way of greeting each other to show we had a special relationship.  Those who knew Wayne know he was a 'close-hold' kind of guy, a man of few words.  However, from the warm hugs when we would see each other, sitting together on the steps of his 4-star quarters at MacDill AFB talking about life issues, and our reminiscences about all the trouble we got into together at school, told me all I needed to know about how he thought about me.  I last saw Wayne in April at a West Point funeral for another classmate, Bill Mogan.  There were several ‘luminaries’ there, but Wayne said “Hey, Charlie, let’s sit together at lunch, OK?”   We last ‘spoke’ to each other via email 2 weeks ago when we corresponded about our upcoming September reunion of the Great Class of 1962 at WP. I will miss him a lot, and it's going to take a few days for me to get by this shock.  Eventually, though, we will all join "The Long Gray Line" and see each other again.  

Wayne mentioned to me on several occasions how much he admired and respected you, Brian, and I suspect you also enjoyed a special relationship.  Thanks, Brian, for your fair and balanced reporting about national security news, and your frequent trips to Iraq to share your time with our troops.  I share your grief.  

LTC Charles Shaw, USA Ret. (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:06 PM)

I had the distinct pleasure of being one of his beloved US Army Rangers from the 75th Ranger Regiment. General Downing never let it pass that we were His, took more than his fare share of shots on our behalf and he was greatly loved and admired by all of us. He was a great, great man and he will be sorely missed. RIP Sir!

Frank Gorski, Tallahassee, FL (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:09 PM)

It was an honor to meet Gen. Downing at a gathering of The American WWII Orphans Network on the occasion of the 50th. anniversary of the end of WWII. I am saddened to learn of his passing.

I am grateful for his service to our country and my condolences to his family.

Brenda Kightlinger (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:11 PM)

A true hero.

S L Downing, CPT US Army (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:18 PM)

I was shocked and saddened to learn of General Downing's (the WAD) untimely death. I served under his command as a subordinate leader with the 3RD Brigade, 1ST Armored Div, Bamberg, FRG and with 1ST SOCOM, Ft Bragg. He was truely the leader's leader in every way possible. I, my family, and our country will greatly miss Wayne and his leadership. Our heartfelt sympathies and admiration go out to his family and loved ones. All The Way, Sir!!

Mike Lopez, MAJ (R), SF Houston, TX (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:22 PM)

It is with great sadness we note the passing of a true patriot, a great soldier and leader and a personal friend to our company and personnel.  General Downing served with distinction on our board of directors and will be missed as both friend and advisor.  To his family we offer our sincere condolences and appreciation of his life of dedication to his country.

The Directors and Employees of Metal Storm (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:32 PM)

Mr. Williams,your thoughts of Dad have meant so much to me and my sister.  I still smile when I watched you and Dad came back on the air after being "MIA" at the beginning of the war.  You both were on the air and while you were describing what had happened, Dad was just grinning like a little boy.  You made mentioned of Dad just loving the rations...
Dad really enjoyed and respected his relationship with you.  Thank you.

And thank you for all the kind words that everyone has written about Dad.  It is a comfort to us.
Elizabeth Downing Revell

Elizabeth Revell (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:37 PM)

I knew General Downing only through his work as a TV analyst But over time I realized what a brilliant and thoughtful man he was. I think most of us could sense his greatness. His charisma was very obvious. America has lost a treasure.  

Robert Peterson, Loma Linda, California (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:39 PM)

My heart is saddened today.  I heard on NBC news that General Downing had died.  What a loss!  I had the privilege of being General Downing's secretary when he was a Brigadier General serving as Deputy Chief of Staff for Training, HQ TRADOC, Fort Monroe, VA.  It was a challenging and exciting time for me.  He expected the best of his staff; and because he gave his best, his staff, including me, wanted to meet his expectations.  He was greatly admired and respected, but certainly was never "stuffy."  He was caring and thoughtful, had a keen sense of humor, and loved a good laugh.  After he left Fort Monroe, I corresponded with him several times as he moved upward and onward in his career.  Then I retired and lost track of his assignments, but I did read of his retirement from the Army he so loved.  Then, there he was on NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams reporting from Iraq.  I wasn't the least bit surprised--I always knew his retirement time would never be spent sitting on a porch in a rocking chair! Many people will be sad today as they hear of his death.  He was a great warrior and an outstanding American.  My heartfelt sympathy goes to his family, many friends, and NBC.

Ann G. Williams. Hampton, VA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:41 PM)

I am saddened to hear of the great loss to this country. The (WAD) was my battalion commander and one hell of a damn fine one at that! This is a sad day!

Kevin Leppla, Yelm, WA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:45 PM)

I am crying over the news of Wayne's death. He was a fellow "war orphan." His father died in World War II as did mine. As Founder of the American WWII Orphans Network I invited him to be with us on the Anniversary of the end of WWII at our AWON conference in 1995. To my surprise he came despite countless invitations elsewhere that day. He said, "There is nowhere else I would rather be today." Those of us who lost our Dad's in WWII share a common bond and I certainly felt it with Gen. Downing. He was one of the most wonderful people I have met in my life time. Despite being in charge of the Special Forces with the war in Bosnia going on, and being alert every minute to an emergency call, he acted as if he had nothing better to do than sit there with his fellow war orphans that day. He gave every person he met special attention. When I hugged him goodbye at the hotel in Seattle it was with tears in both our eyes. His wife is equally brave and wonderful. My heart goes out to her and the family. To lose him like this must be a terrible shock. You are in my prayers and those of all Wayne's "brother and sister" orphans of World War II.

Ann Mix (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:46 PM)

As a young man I had the honor of talking with Gen. Downing several times. I can not claim to have known him well, but our brief conversations always provided an insight into a way of life and a knowledge of history that has served me well for the last 20 years. I offer my condolences to his family; he will be greatly missed.

James F, Austin, TX (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:54 PM)

First off I wish to send my condolenses to his family. General Downing was my Brigade Commander in Bamberg Germnay when I was young Armor Officer in the 1st Armor Division (1982). He embodied the spirit of leadership and was an inspiration to all of us. America has lost one of her greatest son's, and a real hero.  

Dennis E. Porcaro, Jr. New York, New York (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 5:57 PM)

General Downing was one of the great leaders of our time who represented everything good in our military.  God bless him and his family in these difficult times, my heart goes out to all of you.  Wayne, thank you for all you taught me and gave to our county, I will miss you dearly!

Don P, New Orleans, LA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:01 PM)

For the past eight years I arranged Wayne's travel to many places around the world. I am greatly saddened with his passing as he was one of the most caring people I know. He will be greatly missed by all who were touched by his presence. What a wonderful man. Our condolences go out to his family. Rest in peace Wayne. You will always be missed.

Roxann and John Pecharich, Incline Village, NV (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:10 PM)

I had the wonderful pleasure of spending time with him recently as a young Captain in Afghanistan, at West Point, and just this past spring as a civilian in Baghdad.  Yet, one of my fondest memories of him was at an academic conference last year - all the "big shots" were off chatting, in and out of the conference, talking, and networking... but there sat the WAD, listening to every word, taking copious notes, ever the student, and always the thinker.  You remain a true hero. Well Done. Be thou at peace.

Guy Filippelli (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:17 PM)

07/18/07
Our condolenses to General Downing's family.  I always felt comfortable hearing his comments on the war in Iraq.  He spoke clearly and intelligently.  He will be sorely missed by his family and those of us who depend upon honest evaluations.

Marilyn Brown

Marilyn Brown, Edison, New Jersey (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:24 PM)

He was a man possessed of great integrity and honesty.  His candor as an NBC analyst was invaluable to our understanding military strategy and tactics.

Art Funk, Land O Lakes, FL (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:27 PM)

Wayne Downings intelligence in the SOF community was highly respected and helped bring our boots on ground to where they are today.
As a Canadian , I learned much from Downing's teachings and he will forever leave his indelible mark on the SOF Community.

M.Case (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:40 PM)

I am very sorry to hear about General Downing's death, I'll be praying for his family

Robert Graham (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:40 PM)

Several years ago in Colorado Springs, while stationed at Fort Carson, my wife was giving me a tour of her office at a local branch of a national brokerage firm.  As we walked down the hallway, she mentioned who worked where.  As we passed one office, I noticed a framed 8" x 10" color photo bust of Gen. Downing, in fatigues and his black beret.  I stopped in my tracks: "That's Wayne Downing!", I exclaimed to my wife.  She said that yes, Mrs. Downing worked there and that that was her husband.  I told my wife that she didn't understand - THAT was Wayne Downing!  That was, unfortunately, as close as I ever came to meeting General Downing.  His reputation preceded him in that, he was the kind of officer that one would aspire to be, but most fall short of the mark.  From everyone I have known in the US Army that had ever come into contact with General Downing, "What you see is what you get".  A true professional and patriot on a short list of modern great Americans.  You have "endexed", General.  Put your feet up and rest a while...

John Erskine CW4, USA (RET) (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:46 PM)

It was an honor for me to have been on a dinner cruise with General Wayne and other classmates of my husband at their West Point 40th reunion. I was looking forward so much to seeing him again in September for their 45th. I love the picture I took with him. He looked so happy and handsome. The link to his pic: http://www.west-point.org/users/usma1962/24309/Shaw06.JPG

I will miss him - he was truly a great man.

Nataya Kochasuntorn (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:00 PM)

Served with Gen Downing in Desert Storm with special ops.  A valiant general that will be forever etched in my memory and heart.  He will be missed.  

SMSgt (Ret) Larry Lowe, Tampa, FL (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:06 PM)

General Downing was a true gentlemen. Although he carried the ranks, the brass and the various top titles through-out his career, he was still kind and humble person. He worked as a consultant for SAIC and I took care of all his wireless communications. He last emailed me on Friday and its a tragedy to lose a man of his stature. He served his country well and I am proud to have worked for him. God Bless, Gen. Downing.

Dave Cadapan, San Diego,CA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:07 PM)

An awesome human being and soldier.  I admired his leadership qualities immensely.  I will miss him dearly. My prayers go out to his family.  

Ann Madison, Fairfax, VA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:12 PM)

i had the distinct pleasure of meeting Gen.Downing first during DS in 91' and again later talking to us at the predeployment at Ft.Stewart.He loved the lower enlisted soldiers and I never forgot him calling me "Bobcat Belle".. i will never forget him as a Marine,a sailor,and now a Army reservist.I will never forget him...SFC. Belle/Atlanta,Georgia.

SFC CandiOBelle USArmy Reserve (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:16 PM)

As so many have already stated, our nation has lost a great patriot and soldier.  This is a big shock to us all; my heart and prays go out to his family and friends in their time of grief.  I pray that the knowledge that a great warrior has gone home to his Lord will give them some measure of comfort.  

Rochelle, Leavenworth, KS (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:17 PM)

i had the distinct pleasure of meeting Gen.Downing first during DS in 91' and again later talking to us at the predeployment at Ft.Stewart.He loved the lower enlisted soldiers and I never forgot him calling me "Bobcat Belle".. i will never forget him as a Marine,a sailor,and now a Army reservist.I will never forget him...SFC. Belle/Atlanta,Georgia.

SFC CandiOBelle USArmy Reserve (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:20 PM)

Our thoughts and prayers go to the Downing family in the loss of a truly great man.  We both had the honor of serving with General Downing in Germany, the Pentagon and for years at Ft Bragg.  He was a great boss, a good friend, and mentor.  We will miss you.

Elise and Roger John, Honolulu, HI (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:29 PM)

General Wayne Downing was a man of honor, with a no-nonsense approach to problems. He asked penetrating questions, and was also patient when answers weren't immediately forthcoming, as I recall when I briefed him at USSOCOM. He was a real hero.    

Jon B. Atlanta, GA (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:29 PM)

After reading all of these wonderful comments I wish I had known and served with the General.  What a terrific leader and mentor General Downing must have been.  Thank you sir for your service to your country.  My condolences to all his family and friends.  May he rest in peace.

William Malefyt, Naples, FL (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:29 PM)

"Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me."  Isaiah 6:8.  

God bless you General Downing.  It was a pleasure to have served with you.

The Browns, Fayetteville, NC (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:30 PM)

When I was having a tough time at one point in my military career while stationed in Alaska, General Downing somehow heard about it and called me--long- distance--on his own nickle to buck me up. He was outstanding leadership personified. He inspired me with his example, always. My deepest condolences go to his family and friends on their personal loss. My sadness goes out to the nation, which has lost one of its noblest sons.

Sam Wilson, Jr., Farmville, Virginia (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:31 PM)

I had the pleasure of serving with General(then Col) while on the EUCOM Staff, Stuttgart.  This was a brilliant and outstanding soldier.  His professionalism and loyalty will be truly missed; his leadership and style paralled that of GOA Omar Bradlely whom I had the pleasure of serving.

CW4(R) Percy D. Butler (Sent Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:37 PM)



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