1. Preface
This site is NOT a politically correct history of the U.S .Navy in World War
II. Rather it is a predominately Enlisted men’s recollections of their memories, to be passed along to other
generations of what took place, aboard their ships, or stations. Since these stories are an individuals memories,
some Historic events may seem wrong, or out of place? Remember!, these are stories of young men, actually kids, 17 years or
older, so memories have a habit of being often times added onto stories that some may think impossible, but believe me they
are not impossible, they happened.
Officers knew exactly what missions were, we just had scuttlebutt before
it happened. We were not privy to secret orders, as it should be. So, our stories are what actually happened as they took
place, seen and heard from the eyes and ears of Enlisted personnel. I must add in here:
We had strict
discipline, and most of us liked, and respected our Officers! We were forbidden in Officers Country, unless on business,
or going to our Battle Stations. Most officers were not buddy-buddy , but to me, that was fine. Familiarity brings contempt,
and as I stated above, we had strict discipline, and respected our Officers.(In general). After the war, I have spoken to
several of my old Officers, and found that my memories were pretty well founded.
I have been a Volunteer Tour
Guide on an aircraft carrier Museum, for almost 14 years. I pass along these stories, events, etc. to tourists.
Since WE are the Vanishing Generation, and before too long, all of us will be gone, I thought now is the time to pass these
stories to a wider audience, so the stories will not be a thing that will vanish with us. I can still go up and
down ladders, six decks with no trouble,
And, heading for 82 years old. Not too badJ
Some stories will be exciting,
others sad, others funny. Anecdotes are or will be , interspersed, photographs, even music will be added as appropriate.
I was strictly a carrier sailor, radioman, however, all ships recollections, and actions, etc. are welcome, as are Marines
who were part of Navy too.
Jim Verdolini
Rm2/c U.S.Navy 1943-51
U.S.S. Guadalcanal
CVE60 Atlantic, Hunting U Boats
U.S.S. Randolph CV 15(Plankowner) Pacific
U.S.S. F.D.Roosevelt
CVB42 Post WWII Med.
U.S.S. Mindoro CVE 120 (With ComCarDiv17) Caribbean
U.S.S. Sitkoh Bay CVE86
Korean War Pacific
1.