Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Edward "Eddie" Maurer III, a naval veteran and retired engineer, recently celebrated his 81st birthday. Reflecting on his life, Maurer expressed gratitude for the guiding presence of God throughout his years. His military service was closely tied to his Catholic faith, which he believes is a common bond among those in the armed forces.

"God and country, that was pretty much a common belief, not just with Catholics, but anybody that was a person of faith and was part of the military," he shared with Denver Catholic. He also emphasized his devotion to Mary: "I also believe that Mary has been given special graces, so this is my way of saying, I do what I do for God."

Born in Detroit as an only child, Maurer graduated from the University of Detroit with a degree in architecture before joining the Navy. He attended Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island and was commissioned into the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1968.

Maurer served in the Gator Navy specializing in amphibious warfare and received training at the Philadelphia Navy Base. This included Damage Control and SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape) School training. During this time, he worked alongside Navy SEALs who adopted him as one of their own after joint training sessions.

He served on the USS Sandoval until its decommissioning in 1970. After leaving active duty, Maurer pursued a career as an architect for 35 years before retiring to care for his mother following his father's passing.

Maurer's reflections on military service highlight its challenges: “Imagine 36 soldiers or marines in each boat... As you approach the beach... Most casualties during beach landings happened in the first 15 to 20 minutes.” He acknowledged veterans' struggles post-service: “I began to realize they were actually suffering from PTSD.”

In Aurora's St. Michael the Archangel Parish community, Maurer took part in events like last year's "In God We Trust" Mass at Colorado Freedom Memorial. The gathering provided camaraderie among veterans and their families.

"I thought it was just going to be essentially a Mass... And again I felt very humbled," he recounted about connecting with other veterans.

Maurer's participation in Denver Archdiocese's veteran ministry is significant to him: “I always enjoy talking to veterans because... every veteran — man or woman — has a unique story." The program helps reconnect veterans with their faith through various activities including counseling.

Looking ahead eagerly towards future events where he'll bring more friends along; Eddie Maurer's reflection upon life ties back deeply rooted within both patriotism & spirituality encapsulated by Marian medal representing Immaculate Heart Of Mary symbolizing 'God & Country.'