Joseph O. Kahoe, Jr. was born on March 4, 1917, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana. He was the son of Bertha and Joseph O. Kahoe, Sr., both of whom instilled in him strong values and a deep sense of faith. As a young child, Joseph was baptized into the Roman Catholic Church and later received his confirmation, solidifying his commitment to his religion.
What Were Early Life and Military Service Like?
Growing up, Joseph attended school in New Orleans before his family relocated to Chicago, Illinois. It was there that he completed his high school education and graduated with flying colors. However, at the age of 18, Joseph made a decision that would change the course of his life forever – he enlisted in the United States Army.
As a private in the Army, Joseph’s first duty was grooming horses for a meager salary of $21.00 a month. Despite the low pay, he was proud to serve his country and was determined to make the most of his time in the military. In 1939, while stationed at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, Joseph met Laura Luckett and they fell in love. They were soon married and their union was blessed with a daughter, Gayle.
After six years of dedicated service in the Cavalry, Joseph received an honorable discharge from the enlisted ranks of the Army. However, his passion for serving his country did not wane and in 1942, he was given the opportunity to rejoin the military through Officers Candidate School (OCS). Joseph accepted the offer and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant.
What are the Military Achievements and Civic Contributions?
From then on, Joseph served his country with pride and distinction, earning numerous commendations for his bravery and dedication during World War II. He was assigned to the 761st Tank Battalion, which was the first Black tank division to see battle in the war. During the Battle of the Bulge, Joseph was wounded and was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery. Over the next 20 years, he rose through the ranks to become a Major before retiring from the Army in 1962.
Even after his retirement, Joseph continued to serve his country in the private sector. He was a strong advocate for community programs that aimed to improve the lives of people of color. His dedication to serving his country and his community is a testament to his unwavering patriotism and selflessness.
Legacy and Passing
On the 17th of April in 1998, Joseph O. Kahoe, Jr., a distinguished and honorable man, passed away peacefully at INOVA Alexandria Hospital after a short illness. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him and will always be remembered with love and admiration. Joseph is survived by his daughter, Gayle Kahoe, his son, Joseph O. Kahoe, III, and his step-daughter, Adrienne Hill Puryear. He also leaves behind his beloved grandson, Bennie McRae, who will forever cherish the memories they shared.
In addition to his immediate family, Joseph is also mourned by his three devoted sisters-in-law, Mary Martin, Marian Hill, and Vivian Hill, all from Alexandria, VA and Laurel, MD. His brother-in-law, Carlton Hughes from Warrenton, VA, also grieves the loss of such a remarkable man. Joseph’s extended family includes his cousins, Elvira Johnson, Marguerite Russell, and Agnes Workman, who reside in New Orleans, LA, and Chicago, IL respectively. They will always hold a special place in their hearts for Joseph and the bond they shared.
Joseph was fortunate to have four very close friends who were like family to him – Mr. Louis Harris, Sr., Mr. Nelson Greene, Sr., Mr. Lawrence Day, and Mr. Ferdinand Day. Their unwavering support and companionship meant the world to Joseph, and he treasured their friendship dearly. Along with his family and friends, Joseph leaves behind a large circle of loved ones who will miss him greatly.
Joseph O. Kahoe, Jr. was not only a loving father, grandfather, and friend, but he was also a dedicated officer and a true gentleman. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and integrity will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, knowing that he was loved and respected by so many.
