Born in 1907, joined the Navy in 1929, sent from Springfield, Illinois to San Diego, CA. to train. He became an Aviation Electrician aboard the USS Saratoga. The Saratoga was the very first fast aircraft carrier in the United States Navy.
In the early 1930's he met Mary, the love of his life. In 1934, after being promoted to Chief, he asked Mary to be his wife and they were married in the home of their friend. No big wedding needed - they just loved each other.
He fought in "the Battle of Leyte Gulf", the largest naval battle of WWII, survived a kamikaze attack by the Japanese, and traveled the world to Europe, London, North Africa, the Mediterranean, and back to the Pacific again.
After 24+ years in the Navy, his youngest son was born in Guam & he decided to go home with his family. They moved to Lemon Grove, CA. where they enjoyed time with friends. He and Mary spent the rest of their time together there in Lemon Grove until she passed away in 1971. He later passed in 1993. His children placed a funeral notice in the newspaper. 3 men who served with him some 53 years earlier, saw the notice and showed up to say some words. They had received no invitations, but after all those years.... they stood with him again.
He was an example to the boys in his neighborhood and a faithful husband. I was told that he always kept his Navy uniform ready in his closet in case he was called up again.... and he was. After returning again, he was recruited by the CIA and turned it down for his family. He managed to keep the respect of those who served with him and under him.
What makes a man stand in harms way? Where does he get the courage to stand between danger and someone else? I guess my grandfather knew the answer, because this is his story.
Give thanks to someone this week for their service and their family's sacrifice & pray for all service people everywhere.
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