Archive for May, 2007

This is a repost from last year…..

On Memorial Day I always think of my uncle Frank, who died a hero in World War II. Here’s an account of how he died from the site dedicated to his memory:

“For extraordinary heroism as a gunner aboard the USS SAN FRANCISCO during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands area on November 12 and 13, 1942. Courageously refusing to abandon his gun in the face of an onrushing Japanese torpedo plane, SLATER, with cool determination and utter disregard for his own personal safety, kept blazing away until the hostile craft plunged out of the sky in a flaming dive and crashed on his station. His grim perseverance and relentless devotion to duty in the face of certain death were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in the defense of his country. ”

His bravery and sacrifice earned him the Navy Cross. The Navy also named a ship after him — a Destroyer Escort, the U.S.S. Slater.

You can read more about my uncle Frank Here. You can read about the U.S.S. Slater Here and Here.