Edward Joseph FitzGerald’s physical life ended on 15 Jun after a short but arduous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his children, grandchildren and brother allowing him to pass peacefully and to continue on in his spiritual journey. Ed Jr. was born on 3 May 43 in Jackson Heights, New York, to Edward and Dorothy (DeChiara) FitzGerald. He lived on Long Island, graduating from Chaminade High School and continuing his education at Providence College. He was accepted into the first ROTC Aviation program and became a skilled helicopter pilot. He served over four years in the Army Medical Service as a Medevac pilot. During the Vietnam War, Ed flew with the 498th Med Co (AA) out of Nha Trang and Qui Nhon from Jan 67 to Jan 68 flying hundreds of rescue missions, logging thousands of flying hours and saving countless lives, all while risking his own. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. He also served in Germany as a medical evacuation pilot for two years prior to discharge from Active Duty. Upon discharge, Ed and his family moved to California, endured the 1971 San Fernando earthquake, and then relocated to central Connecticut. He was employed by AETNA Life and Casualty Insurance Company in Hartford, while continuing to fly helicopters with the CT Army National Guard. After retirement, Ed worked part-time jobs in Rhode Island and Georgia.
