AO3 Smitty's USS Enterprise Logbook

[Carol Vogel]

A few weeks ago, I had the honor of meeting a gentleman who had a few tattoos. I always ask about them, because they usually indicate a former serviceman. He told me he got it right after Pearl Harbor was attacked. I asked if he had been in the Navy, and he told me he was stationed on the USS Utah which was also sunk during the attacks. He said he was just a 17 year old green sailor...... then he stopped. I told him then about the kids, dragged down their pictures and we talked for quite a while.

Mr. U, thank you for your years of service (he carreered it and retired as a recruiter in our area). I hope my children have the chance to meet you some day.

I recommend everyone go to the USS Utah website; it is a national momunent on the other side of the island from the Arizona. I saw Mr. U's name on the list of survivors and there are some fascinating stories from survivors and family members of those who didn't make it.

And, as always, let us never forget this day or 9/11.
_________________
Proud Navy Mom X 2

[cherrieboo]

What a great story. I have met a few "old salts" myself living here in Va. Its always neat to learn their stories. If you have ever seen the movie U571 about the german Uboat that was taken over by americans and their coding machine that was captured in wwII, the man who led that mission is a regular at the pet store I work at and he is just so sweet with so many great stories.

Pearl Harbor day always makes me a little sad. I will say an extra little prayer for all those familes that lost someone today.
hugs and love
CC

[DiBurd]

Today is always a day of mixed emotions for me. I always say a little prayer but my great aunt and uncle were married on December 7, 1941 and the next day my great uncle was shipped out... he was Army... Today they are still together and married 66 years... they are THE cutiest couple. I adore them.