I was flattered to hear my letter was sent around to others. I really only wanted Elmer Breeze to read it to thank him for all the help he gave to young men. There are others like Alex M. Mihalka, CBM and Bert J. Edgar, BM1c. I'm now 75 years old, so some of the names have slipped my mind.

I was assigned to the 9th Division when I boarded the ship. I was a Second Class Seaman and was placed on the after 40's as a third loader. I can remember being scared out of my wits, and men like Breeze, Mihalka & Bertram helped me to take care of my self. I hold high regard for these men.

Alex Mihalka was the leading petty officer in the division and he helped me to get settled. Elmer Breeze was a stern man which helped me to learn my duties on the 40's. He was a tall redhead with a young face. He had a funny laugh which ran through my whole body. When I heard he was ill, I had to tell him just how much he was a part of my life...no..."our" lives. He touched many lives and saved many lives through his instructions. He was a real hero.

Bertram taught us how to tie line and repair torn canvas. Also to clean the compartment in all ways possible. I believe these men were more heroic than the ones that died for their country. They kept us alive for the future of our country. Very seldom is there a story of men like this. They were only plain men in one sense and great men in another. We were a team and we showed it in every battle...Thanks to these men.

Robert E. Grizzell Y3c

SLC Deck Logs, Aug. 1943

Attended the following SLC Reunions:   1989  2003