Donald J. Tierney

U.S. Navy
WWII
1943-1946

Donald Tierney Sr. was born on June 12, 1926 in the Hell’s Kitchen section of New York City to
Margaret and James Tierney. Donald was the oldest of seven siblings: Gerard, Gloria, James, Margaret, Patricia, and Teresa.

In 1943, Donald joined the United States Navy. He was only 17 at the time and his enlistment paperwork required a parent’s signature. Donald had previously attempted to enlist in 1942 at the age of 16. Donald changed his birth date on his enlistment papers, so he appeared to be 17 years old. When his mother discovered what he had done, she went down to the recruitment station and informed the officers in charge that her son was only 16 years old.

When he finally turned 17, Donald convinced his father to give him written permission to join the Navy and he enlisted less than a month after his 17th birthday. Donald was determined to fight for his country and fulfill his patriotic duty during World War II.

Donald served in the United States Navy from 1943 to 1946 and attained the rank of yeoman second class. He was stationed aboard the USS Otis, a submarine tender, and saw duty in Leyte Gulf in the Philippines and other stations in the South Pacific.

After returning from the South Pacific, Donald married Agnes Forte in 1948 and they moved to Inwood, Manhattan. While living in Inwood, Agnes gave birth to two daughters, Barbara and Susan. They also welcomed their first son, Donald Jr., while living in Inwood.

Donald joined the New York City Police Department in 1951. He had a 22-year career as a police officer and was assigned to the former 4th Precinct in Lower Manhattan. After following the advice of his partner, Donald moved his family to the Meiers Corners section of Staten Island in 1960.

While living on Staten Island, Donald and Agnes welcomed their fourth child, Kevin. Donald retired from the NYPD in 1973 and later worked for 13 years as a personnel manager for Brinks Armored Car Service in Manhattan. His wife Agnes passed away in 1980.

Donald moved to Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey in 1987 fulfilling the retirement dream he had with his wife. He lived there until his death in 2014.

Donald was also the beloved grandfather to six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

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