Let me intoduce myself. My name is Eugene Hudson, more commonly known as "Gene". I was born not too far from where you live, Nowata County. I graduated from Vinita High School in 1938.

After joining the Navy in 1940 I reported aboard the Salt Lake City on Dec. 11, 1940 and was placed in the 4th Division. I remainded in that division until I left the ship in Oct., 1944. My rate at that time was boatswains mate, first class and the leading petty officer of the 4th Div.

I did not know your father, of course our war time compliment was approximately 1,100 men and if you were in the aft or stern area, you probably did not get acquainted with the ones up forward.

Our daughter pulled your website up and then asked me why I did not send you something to put in by my name. So, I'm complying with my daughters request.

I am enclosing some old newspapers from Brisbane, Australia when we were there in Aug. 1941.

Sincerely, Gene Hudson

For his Mailing Address, contact Sandy Eskew

Remembers William F. Peak, Cox
#2 in picture of Officers & Petty Officers, 4th Division, 1944-Group ID#173
#36 in 4th Division Group Picture-Group ID#106
Two US Cruisers in Brisbane, Australia...August 6, 1941
"Epic of the Salt Lake City"...Toledo Blade & Chicago Daily News
I've "inserted" the different parts of the "Epic" into the Toledo Blade article