Gene Paladin

Gene Paladin, 1st Sgt. US Army (Ret.), combat infantryman, paratrooper, and long-time Clarksville, Tennessee resident, died Monday, April 9, 2018. He was 91.

Born and raised in Lexington, he attended Lexington High School. Soon after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served for the duration of World War II, and then embarked on a military career which spanned nearly 30 years. As a young man, he was awarded the Airborne Glider Badge. While stationed in Berlin, he was nicknamed the "Ku'Damm Cowboy", in honor of his quick-draw demonstrations. Mr. Paladin was a proud member of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, and participated in numerous combat operations during the Korean and Vietnam wars. Among various awards and citations, Mr. Paladin was the recipient of two Bronze Stars and multiple Purple Heart medals.

Often accompanied by a camera throughout his service, he turned his love for photography into a second career, after retiring from the Army. In particular, Mr. Paladin covered various military-related events and ceremonies. His photographs regularly were featured in local publications such as The Static Line. He was a consummate professional, a student of history with an impeccable memory and a great sense of humor. Equal to his love of country was his love for his family and friends. A Godly man, kind, caring, generous, thoughtful, and self-less, he lead by a great example, and will be sorely missed by everyone who loved him.

Gene was the son of the late Sebastiano and Rosalina Paladina, and brother of the late Maj. Lena Paladina, US Army (Ret.), Helen Dee Strange, and Albert Paladina. He is survived by his brother Mark Paladina and many nephews and nieces.

Family and friends will honor and remember Gene's life by gathering for his graveside service at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 20, 2018 in Calvary Cemetery, 250 High Street, Waltham.