The battle for Okinawa would continue through June 21 but the early summer was vacation time for the Pickens. We left Saipan, traveled through the Solomon Islands, completed shelback initiation, and went on to New Caledonia. We returned to Saipan, began preparations to invade Japan, and headed for California.
Hello Roy,
ReplyDeleteMy Grandfather, Darold Reinke, was on the USS Pickens with you, but he passed away in 2002, and he would never talk about his experiences in the Navy in WWII. I know he was a mechanic (MoMM) on the ship. Maybe you remember/knew him? If so, I would love to hear stories or see pictures. He greatly influenced my life which, is part of the reason why I joined the US Army in 2008, and I miss him dearly.
Anyway, I really enjoy reading your blog because it's helping me better understand what you both went through and why my Grandfather never talked about it. I look forward to more blog posts.
Take care!
-Heather
Thanks for you blog. Nice!
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