James J. Dugan

U.S. Navy
1952-1956
Korean War

James J. Dugan (Jim) was born on May 2, 1934, to James and Catherine (Hart) Dugan. Jim grew up in Graniteville with siblings Charles, Kathy and Matthew. He attended Blessed Sacrament and McKee Vocational High School.

Jim enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1952 and proudly served aboard the USS Missouri during the Korean War.

The USS Missouri (BB-63) was the last battleship of the United States Navy, famous for being the site of the Japanese surrender that ended World War II and for serving in the Korean and Persian Gulf Wars. After its military career, the "Mighty Mo" was decommissioned and became a museum ship, today serving as a memorial at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, a symbolic counterpoint to the USS Arizona.

During his service he was also stationed aboard the USS Oriskany and USS Hancock before being honorably discharged.

Jim met Mary Gambardella at the evening center for teenagers at PS 44 in Mariners Harbor. Jim and Mary wed in 1956 and celebrated 67 years of marriage. Parents to Debbie, Jimmy, and Frank and loving grandparents to Nicole, Kathryn, Megan, Kristin, Cara and Keri. Jim and Mary spent 50 plus years in their home in Castleton Corners.

A New York City Firefighter for 33 years, Jim was first stationed at Engine Company 32 on Beekman Street in Manhattan. He transferred to Staten Island’s Engine Company 161 in South Beach and remained a “Beachboy” until retirement.

Jim was a longtime member of the Granite Athletic Club (Port Richmond) and served as president for several terms. Jim played football and softball for the Granites and for the SI Baseball & Softball Old Timers Association.

Jim was also a member of the Retired Firefighters Association, Emerald Society, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Veterans of Foreign Wars # 7172 (Westerleigh), and St. Teresa RC Church.

Sponsored by the Dugan Family