[kmetz]

one of my favorite WWII stories. There should be a movie made about Big Ben and her men. The Franklin was the most decorated ship of the war. Gary wasn't the only one on board to receive the MOH. Have you read the book, "The Ship That Wouldn't Die"?

Gary had written a letter home in preparation for death--a letter marked "To Whom it May Concern, the enclosed letter is to mailed only if I am killed in action." Dated Sat., 17 March 1945, at sea. He opens the letter to his wife and son--"My Dear Wife and Son: Happy Birthday, Sweetheart! If I could only be there to kiss you and try to make you and I both happy. And I believe I could . . . ." and he ends the letter, "As God is my judge, I love you as much as life and hope it's not asking too much of the Lord to have both of you for a few years. Love to you - Love to Kenny P.S. There is so much more I'd like to write can't put it in words. Besides - I think I've let you know how I feel on a day like this. I've felt like this always, sweetheart, but you know me - I don't say it often - or don't say things I should say at all. Love, Don."

And just two days later Donald Arthur Gary could very well have died, but instead he rose to the occasion and saved many lives by using his wits and courage.

Father O'Callahan was also awarded the MOH for his actions aboard the Franklin on 19 March 1945.

Captain Leslie E. Gehres was considered for the MOH, but turned it down because he felt he was just doing his duty as the commanding officer. I wonder if Gehres would have gotten the MOH anyway--as he didn't treat some of the survivors of the Franklin very well, and they never forgave him.