Written by 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.
Thanks, Jeff -
May we never forgot the sacrifice of so many so that we can live in freedom. And may we never abuse the privilege.
Dee
It’s pretty powerful to know the ways people you love effected the world, and how the wars they faced changed their lives forever. My grandfather was a Catholic boy from New Jersey until WWII when he met my grandmother – a church of Christ girl from Alabama – at Camp McCoy in Wisconsin. She was in the Women’s Army Corps. Totally changed the path of his life. I think about Jim, too, and how when he was drafted, his life was saved twice, once literally, and once spiritually.
That is an amazing story about your uncle, Jeff. Thank you for sharing that with us. My dad was Navy in WWII as well. We are so fortunate for the brave men and women who gave their lives to defend our freedom. You, no doubt, show the same character as your uncle. You stand in the gap to save souls from a fate far worse than death. Keep the faith, brother!
That is an amazing story about your uncle, Jeff. Thank you for sharing that with us. My dad was Navy in WWII as well. We are so fortunate for the brave men and women who gave their lives to defend our freedom. You, no doubt, show the same character as your uncle. You stand in the gap to save souls from a fate far worse than death. Keep the faith, brother!
God bless Frank, and all who serve. As the dad of a noble son in boot camp right now, people like Frank are an inspiration and help me stay strong.