[1] Born in Boston, Massachusetts in 1928, McDonough was an ordained Catholic priest.

In 1982, McDonough became Command Chaplain at Headquarters, United States Air Forces in Europe.

He was promoted to Chief of Chaplains with the rank of major general in 1988 and held the position until his retirement in 1991.

Awards he received include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Army Commendation Medal and the Outstanding Unit Award.

McDonough was named the 12th Pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish in Peabody, Massachusetts.