Jack was born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, and is a proud son of Scottish immigrants. He joined the Navy in 1942 and served in the ship’s anti-air batteries. He saw action in numerous Pacific battles, such as Wake Island, Marshall Islands, Saipan, Iwo Jima, Okinawa and more. The Yorktown earned 11 battle stars and the Presidential Unit Citation. Jack is proud of his service and entertained our honor ceremony attendees with ship stories.
Following WWII, Jack married Patricia and had two children. He was married to his second wife, Dee, for 45 years. He has a total of 15 grandchildren! In civilian life Jack had various career pursuits, including surveyor, stockbroker, and insurance sales. In retirement he enjoyed playing golf and was active in his church and in community volunteering.
We presented Jack several patriotic gifts and a medals case, and he received a letter from @REP Williams TImmons. Special thanks to @VHV-Greenville and @Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum for supporting this event.
We salute you, Jack, as you proceed on your Last Patrol.
