World War II veteran Joseph Conrad McKinney is remembered for his bravery on the battlefield but it was his service in Jacksonville that meant the most to local veterans.
His daughter, Marguerite McKinney, has kept many of his photos of him wearing his Navy uniform.
“My dad is an American hero. He has dedicated his life to his fellow veterans,” she said.
She’s now planning his funeral services. Her father recently died at 90 years old.
But McKinney still remembers his sacrifices from long ago.
“My dad pulled bodies off the beaches of Normandy,” McKinney said.
Joseph McKinney was awarded the Purple Heart. His daughter said he also earned a Silver Star and a Bronze Star. But his greatest love wasn’t medals or awards, it was his wife who passed away in 2013.
“That was his everything. He met her when he was like 17 and they were married for 50 years. They were inseparable,” McKinney said. “Now they're together.”
Joseph McKinney was also a chaplain for American Legion Post 88. He dedicated his life to ensuring veterans weren’t alone on their final days. Now that’s he’s passed on, his fellow veterans and family will do the same for him and give him the send-off he deserves.
Around 600 American Legion motorcycle riders are traveling to Jacksonville to honor McKinney at his funeral services.
As he's laid to rest, McKinney hopes her father's legacy holds true.
“To respect our nation and our veterans. To love the Lord and serve the Lord. Just to be a good person,” she said.
Joseph McKinney’s viewing will be held Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at Hardage Giddens Chapel Hill and his funeral service will be held Thursday at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.