Cecil Downey of Athens was in the first wave of Marines to storm the beaches of Iwo Jima in February of 1945. it was to be one ofthe most horrific battles of World War Two. Over seven thousand Americans lost thier lives there. The average age was nineteen with some as young as fourteen, having lied about their age.
Downey made it home alive but without his legs. he went on to marry, raise a family, and establish a successful business.
Joan Hallmark, Reporting joanhallmark@kltv.com
