Tag: Unsung Heros

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Honoring Navy Heroes: The Inspiring Story of Charles Jackson French

Charles Jackson French,

Welcome to the Members and Friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy!

As we continue to advocate for a robust and formidable naval force, it’s essential to remember and honor the heroes who have exemplified the very essence of bravery and dedication in the history of the United States Navy.

Today, we turn the spotlight on an extraordinary figure: Charles Jackson French, a Navy hero whose story of valor during World War II continues to inspire.

The Night of Valor: USS Gregory and the Battle of Guadalcanal

On the night of September 4, 1942, the crew of the high-speed transport USS Gregory (APD 3) found themselves in a perilous situation. Patrolling between Savo Island and Guadalcanal, they encountered Japanese destroyers.

The USS Gregory, caught in a fierce battle and outgunned, began to sink, setting the stage for an incredible act of heroism.

Charles Jackson French: Early Life and Navy Career

Charles Jackson French, born on September 25, 1919, in Foreman, Arkansas, joined the Navy as a Mess Attendant—a position then largely designated for black men. His journey in the Navy brought him to the decks of USS Houston (CA-30) and, eventually, the USS Gregory.

A Hero Emerges Amidst Tragedy

As the USS Gregory sank, Mess Attendant 1st Class French took action that would etch his name in history. In a remarkable feat of endurance and courage, he swam through shark-infested waters for hours, towing a raft filled with injured shipmates. His bravery and strength saved the lives of more than a dozen sailors.

Legacy and Recognition.

The heroic actions of Charles Jackson French were not only a testament to his character but also a symbol of hope and resilience for the Navy community. In recognition, a rescue swimming training pool at Naval Base San Diego was dedicated in his honor in May 2022, immortalizing his legacy.

Conclusion

Charles Jackson French’s story is a powerful reminder of the courage and determination that run deep in the veins of our naval heroes. It is these qualities that Americans for a Stronger Navy continues to champion and uphold. We encourage our members and friends to carry on the legacy of heroes like French, ensuring our Navy remains strong, resilient, and ever-vigilant.

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Unsung Navy Heros – Underwater Demolition Teams

During World War II, the United States Navy played a crucial role in the Allied victory. While some naval officers and crew members became well-known heroes, many others went unrecognized for their contributions.

One such group of unsung heroes was the Navy’s underwater demolition team, or UDT. These highly skilled divers were tasked with clearing the way for amphibious landings by removing obstacles such as mines and other explosive devices from the seafloor.

Among these brave men was a young diver named Jack. Jack had grown up in a small town in the Midwest and had always been fascinated by the ocean. When he heard about the UDT, he knew that he had to be a part of it. He trained for months, learning how to use explosives and navigate underwater. When he finally graduated, he was assigned to a team that would be involved in the upcoming invasion of Okinawa.

As the invasion approached, Jack and his team were tasked with clearing a path for the landing craft. They worked tirelessly, swimming back and forth between the shore and their ship, carefully placing explosives and detonating them to clear the way. The work was dangerous and exhausting, but they knew that the success of the invasion depended on their efforts.

On the morning of the invasion, Jack and his team were among the first to hit the beach. They had to clear a path through a dense minefield while under heavy fire from enemy troops. But they pressed on, working through the smoke and the chaos to make sure that the landing craft could make it to shore safely.

Thanks to their efforts, the invasion was a success. The Allies were able to gain a foothold on Okinawa, which would prove to be a crucial stepping stone in the fight against Japan. But despite their heroism, Jack and his team were never recognized for their bravery. They returned home quietly, slipping back into civilian life without fanfare or celebration.

Years later, as an old man, Jack would look back on his time in the UDT with pride. He knew that he and his fellow divers had played a crucial role in the war effort, and he was grateful for the experience. And while he may not have received the recognition that he deserved, he knew that he had done his part to help secure freedom and democracy for future generations.