Southwest Montana News

U.S. Senator Steve Daines, Congressman Matt Rosendale, Senator Jon Tester, and Congressman Ryan Zinke have jointly penned a letter to Congressional leadership advocating for the renaming of the VA Outpatient Clinic in Butte, Montana, in honor of Charlie Dowd, the state's last Pearl Harbor survivor. The letter is in support of S. 2385, a bill that seeks to rename the clinic to the "Charlie Dowd VA Clinic."

In the letter, the lawmakers highlighted Charlie Dowd's heroic actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor, stating, "Charlie fought valiantly at Pearl Harbor—emerging from the barracks in only his night clothes, grabbing a Springfield rifle, and attempting to down the attacking enemy aircraft." They also noted Dowd's continued service in the U.S. Navy, where he earned seven Bronze Star Medals for his service in the Solomon Islands and New Guinea.

Describing Dowd's post-military life, the letter mentioned his dedication to caring for fellow veterans as an active member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association and his commitment to preserving the memory of World War II and those who sacrificed for freedom. The lawmakers emphasized that renaming the VA clinic in Butte in his honor would be a fitting tribute to his legacy.

The proposed renaming of the Butte VA Clinic aims to honor Dowd's service and sacrifice to the state and the country. The letter from the Montana lawmakers serves as a formal request to Congress to consider the bill and proceed with the renaming in memory of Charlie Dowd, a true patriot whose impact continues to resonate with those who knew him.