I just posted an eight-part biographical series as shared by Lieutenant Martin “Marty” E Roberts, who served aboard YMS-468 in the Americas and Japan. The write-up, photos, and trinkets attached are very fascinating!
Included:
- A photo of the YMS-468 commissioning
- An official Sacred Order of the Golden Dragon membership card, bestowed upon soldiers who cross the International Date Line by sea; more on Wikipedia, but its history is mired in controversy over hazing incidents
- Many rare tourism photos of Nicaragua and war-torn Japan
- The envelope and artwork sent in celebration of Japan’s surrender
- A Pan Am travel card with beautiful period artwork
- …and much more!
Jump into the full story, starting with part 1 of “Navy Days – A Letter to Joe”:
- Part 1: In training
- Part 2: YMS-468 on the US East Coast
- Part 3: YMS-468 through Panama Canal, in prep for battle
- Part 4: YMS-468 on the US West Coast, into the Pacific Theatre
- Part 5: YMS-468 in battle, up to Japan’s surrender
- Part 6: YMS-468 in Makurazaki Typhoon
- Part 7: YMS-468 moored in Japan’s occupation
- Part 8: After the war
Thank you, Marty!
More information on the YMS-468 build specification can be found on NavSource.