During the Cold War, many a young person volunteered to serve in the military despite persistent threats to the nation's security. Such a spirit of dedication and volunteerism is demonstrated through the extensive naval service of local submarine veteran Ed Irwin.
Born in Russellville, Irwin's family eventually settled in Jefferson City, where he graduated from high school in 1962.
But a mixture of what the veteran describes as "wanderlust" and a desire to help his mother, became the invigorating mixture that quickly convinced the graduate to pursue a career in the U.S. Navy.