Don Malarkey of Easy Company

Don Malarkey, a distinguished veteran of World War II, gained prominence as one of the courageous soldiers of Easy Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. His experiences, documented in Stephen E. Ambrose's book "Band of Brothers" and the subsequent HBO miniseries of the same name, have immortalized him as a symbol of bravery, camaraderie, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Malarkey was born on July 31, 1921, in Astoria, Oregon. Like many young men of his generation, he felt a sense of duty to serve his country following the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. In 1942, Malarkey enlisted in the United States Army and volunteered for the paratroopers, a decision that would shape the course of his life.

As a member of Easy Company, Malarkey participated in some of the most harrowing battles of World War II, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy, the Battle of Carentan, Operation Market Garden, and the Battle of the Bulge. Throughout these campaigns, he demonstrated remarkable courage under fire and unwavering loyalty to his comrades.
 
Malarkey's leadership qualities and combat prowess earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow soldiers. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant and served as a squad leader, leading his men with courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.

One of the most defining moments of Malarkey's wartime service occurred during the Battle of Brécourt Manor on D-Day. Under heavy enemy fire, he and his fellow paratroopers successfully disabled a German artillery battery, a feat that played a crucial role in the success of the Allied invasion.

After the war, Malarkey returned home to Oregon, where he embarked on a successful career in business and later became a public speaker, sharing his experiences with audiences around the world. Despite the passage of time, he remained deeply connected to his fellow veterans and the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Malarkey's legacy extends far beyond his wartime exploits. He is remembered not only for his bravery on the battlefield but also for his humility, integrity, and unwavering commitment to serving others. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation and the enduring spirit of resilience that defines the American character.

In 2009, Malarkey published his memoir, "Easy Company Soldier: The Legendary Battles of a Sergeant from World War II's 'Band of Brothers,'" providing readers with a firsthand account of his wartime experiences. His memoir, along with the enduring popularity of "Band of Brothers," ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.

Don Malarkey passed away on September 30, 2017, at the age of 96. Though he may be gone, his memory lives on as a testament to the courage, sacrifice, and brotherhood that defined Easy Company and the men who served in it.

Family connection

Don is my 5th cousin twice removed through his maternal grandfather's side of the family, the "Camp" family. His great grandmother, Helen Louise Camp was born in Dundas, Ontario, Canada. Don was already in the family tree, but I only recently discovered who he was. One of Don's daughters is a DNA match with three immediate family members.
I've recently discovered my paternal cousin's husband, Mark Nettleton, worked on the "Band of Brothers" miniseries and was nominated for a Primetime Emmy award for Outstanding Special Visual Effects for a Miniseries, Movie or a Special for part IV ("Replacements").