Giving back to others in Service as a Marine. Now I am dedicated to caring for others.
Americans in Wartime
Voices of Freedom Project: Oral History Of Urgent Fury Veteran Boyd Lowry
- Background and Early Life:
- Boyd Lowry grew up in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and attended Ridgewood High School.
- He struggled in school and decided to join the Marine Corps instead of going to college.
- Joining the Marine Corps:
- Boyd joined the Marine Corps in 1982, three days after graduating high school.
- His father, a minister, wanted him to be a conscientious objector, but Boyd chose to enlist.
- Training and Deployment:
- Boyd underwent boot camp at Parris Island and infantry training at Camp Pendleton.
- He was assigned to Echo Company, which had just returned from Beirut.
- Grenada Invasion:
- Initially set to deploy to Beirut, Boyd’s unit was redirected to Grenada following the assassination of the bishop and the declaration of martial law.
- Boyd participated in securing the island, facing mortar fire and engaging in house-to-house searches.
- Beirut Deployment:
- After Grenada, Boyd’s unit returned to their original mission in Beirut as part of the multinational peacekeeping force.
- They faced significant challenges, including the aftermath of the Beirut barracks bombing and subsequent combat situations.
- Combat Experiences:
- Boyd described intense combat situations, including securing positions, building bunkers, and facing enemy fire.
- He highlighted the emotional and psychological impact of these experiences.
- Faith and Personal Growth:
- Boyd’s faith played a crucial role in his service, helping him reconcile the challenges of combat with his beliefs.
- He emphasized the importance of accepting one’s mission and the sacrifice involved in military service.
- Post-Service Life:
- Boyd became a serial entrepreneur and now runs FirstLight, a company that cares for seniors and veterans in Bergen County.
- He continues to serve his community and teach youth at his church.
- Reflections on Service:
- Boyd wants future generations to understand the purpose and sacrifice involved in military service.
- He hopes to inspire others with his story and emphasize the importance of integrity, honesty, and service to others.