Jason K. Goldwater

Jason K. Goldwater, a talented violinist and composer whose life was marked by artistic brilliance and patriotic service, passed away on July 10, 1943, in the waters near Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. Born on February 15, 1916, in Brooklyn, New York, Jason's world was deeply enriched by music from an early age, a passion fostered by his oldest brother, a concert violinist, who gifted him his first violin at the tender age of six.

Jason’s commitment to music flourished throughout his youth. He graduated from James Madison High School in Brooklyn, where he distinguished himself as the concertmaster of the school orchestra and composed a new school song entitled “March Madison.” His exceptional talent was recognized in 1933 when he earned the gold medal in the Senior Violin Class of the New York Music Week Association contest. Jason’s musicianship extended beyond school; he also played in various orchestras in and around New York and was a member of a notable string quartet that broadcasted over WQXR, a New York station. Educated further at Brooklyn College, he aspired to dedicate his life entirely to the art of music.

Known for his occasional absent-mindedness, a charming anecdote illustrates this: after personally driving to a concert, he took the subway home afterward and then found himself in a panic the following day, unable to locate his car until he recalled the events of the previous evening.

However, Jason's promising career was interrupted by World War II. He bravely served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army Air Forces, assigned to the 69th Bombardment Squadron of the 42nd Bombardment Group. On the day of his passing, he was serving as the navigator aboard a B-25C Mitchell bomber during a low-altitude shipping sweep mission in the Central Solomons. Tragically, shortly after takeoff from Carney Field on Guadalcanal, the aircraft struck trees, crashed into the sea near Koli Point, and sank almost immediately. Despite a valiant effort by one crewmember who managed to swim to safety and an extensive Navy search, no trace of Jason or three other crewmen was ever found.

At the time of his death, Jason left behind cherished family members who held his memory dear: his mother Bertha (Birdie) Goldwater, father Harry Goldwater, brothers Josef M.Goldwater and George T. Goldwater, and sister Helen Goldwater Garman, along with her husband Albert Garman, and nephews Barry Garman and Edwin. He was preceded in death by his mother Birdie Goldwater, brother Josef M. Goldwater, and nephew Edwin Garman. Today, he is survived by his nephew, Josef M. Goldwater, and numerous great nieces and great nephews, two whom are named after him

The legacy of Jason K. Goldwater is one of artistic excellence, youthful promise, and courageous sacrifice. His contributions to music and his country remain deeply respected and remembered. In reflecting on his life, we honor a gifted musician whose melodies were as noble as the bravery he exhibited in his final days.