Melvin enlisted in the US Navy when he was 17 years old. He says he chose the Navy simply because it was the first recruiting station that he found!
He was inducted on February 3, 1944. After basic training, Melvin found himself assigned to the famous battleship, the USS North Carolina. The North Carolina was to become the highest decorated US battleship in WWII. It was awarded 15 battle stars for its service in the war.
His job on the ship was that of radioman, and also was a crew member on 40mm anti-aircraft gun.
The USS North Carolina participated in many of the island hopping campaigns in the South Pacific. These included Saipan, Tinian, Guam, Philippines, Okinawa, Iwo Jima and several others.
One of Melvin’s most memorable moments was the signing of the Japanese surrender documents in Tokyo Bay. The North Carolina was anchored near the USS Missouri, as the document signing began.
He was awarded the WWII Victory medal, American campaign medal, Philippine Liberation medal, Good Conduct award, and the Defense Service medal.
Melvin was discharged on May 1, 1946.
No comments:
Post a Comment