Edward Frank Padilla

Edward Frank Padilla, age 92, passed away at his home in Albuquerque, NM on August 18,2024. “Ed” was born in Denver, Colorado on March 23,1932, one of nine children. He is survived by his wife Ramona and his 11 children. Ed had 13 children with 2 children who predeceased him. Ed had many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren which he loved and was very proud of them. 

He joined the Army in 1947, after basic training he went to parachute school. After completion was sent to Japan where he was assigned to 11th Airborne Division, soon after he was temporarily assigned to Sugamo Prison near Tokyo to guard the Japanese war criminals where General Tojo was hanged for his crimes. General McArthur released the 11th Airborne Div. from Japan, and they were assigned to Fort Campbell, KY. When the Korean War started (1950) was sent to help the Koreans in that war as an Airborne RCT (187th Airborne Regimental Combat team) Where he participated in making two combat jumps behind enemy lines. After returning from Korea (1951) he was discharged and was going to school and decided to reenlist in the service again. In 1953, he enlisted into the Air Force. They have an elite group called Pararescue which sounded good to him. After 22 years in Pararescue he had many assignments around the world. The Vietnam war had just started where he was stationed in the Philippines. That war kept Pararescue busy flying behind enemy lines picking up downed pilots that had bailed out after their aircraft was disabled from enemy fire. The USA didn’t want these pilots to be captured. Rescuing the pilots, was very intense and gratifying when they were returned home safely. Ed loved his years as a Pararescue. He served his country proudly alongside many heroes, received many awards and decorations for his valor. After 26 years of military service, Ed became a Postal Carrier for 20 years. After 46 years in uniform for the government it was time to retire. He is loved and will be missed, God Rest His Soul.

Proud life member of; Pararescue PJ USAF, 187th Airborne RCT, 11th Airborne, Veterans of Foreign Affairs, Korean Veterans, 82nd Airborne Division.

Services will begin with Recitation of the Rosary, Tuesday, September 3, 2024, Daniels Family Funeral Services - Sara Chapel, 4310 Sara Rd. SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124.  Mass will be held 10:30 AM, Wednesday, September 4, 2024, St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 5712 Paradise Blvd. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114.  Burial will follow at 1:00 PM, Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 N. Guadalupe St., Santa Fe, NM 87501.