Edward M. Drahos, 92, of Long Branch died peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday October 6, at Ocean Medical Center, Brick Twp. Born in Cliffside Park, NJ, Mr. Drahos moved to Long Branch where he lived for many years before moving to Eatontown. After High School, Ed helped construct the Lincoln Tunnel. A proud Patriot Ed served our great country in the United States 8th Air Force to help defend the freedom that we enjoy today. Although only 25 were required, he flew in 27 missions in the European Theatre as an engineer gunner in the top turret of the B-17 'Flying Fortress.' He was honorably discharged in 1945. In 2003 Mr. Drahos was awarded the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal, the State's top military award. He was a member of the 95th bomb group memorials foundation. A member of the Teamsters Union, he retired from Borden's Ice Cream. As a child, he loved swimming and often swam across the Hudson River. Known for his sense of humor, songs and one-liners, he spent many weekends with Fran the Flower Lady at the Collingswood Auction and enjoyed fishing, polka music and wrestling. He is predeceased by his parents Stephen and Anna, his brothers Frank, John M., and Martin, and his twin sister Helen Shipman of SC, who just passed away on August 22nd. He is survived by his children Lee Ann Cusack of Brick, Edward M. Drahos Jr. of Barnegat, and John B. and Tina Drahos of Oceanport; six grandchildren, one great grandchild; Many nieces and nephews; and his long time companion Patricia Staak. He adored them all. Visitation will be Friday October 9th , 6-9 PM at the Woolley Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street at Broadway, Long Branch. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday October 10th, 9:30 AM at the Church of the Precious Blood, Monmouth Beach. Interment will follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery, West Long Branch. Those wishing to remember Mr. Drahos may make a contribution in his memory to Ladacin Network, 1701 Kneeley Boulevard, Wanamassa, NJ 07712. www.ladacin.org. You may light a candle of condolence on the opposite page.