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Operational Archives Branch Naval Historical Center 805 Kidder Breese Street SE Washington Navy Yard, DC 20374-5060

Papers of Commander
Donald Gary,
1920-1970

Scope and Content Note

This collection contains a scrapbook assembled by Donald Gary and his family to record his wartime experience aboard USS Franklin during the last year of World War II. In March 1945, a single Japanese bomber off the coast of Japan attacked Franklin. The plane dropped 2-3 bombs, causing extensive damage and a great loss of life. Gary managed to save 250-300 men who had become trapped below decks of the crippled vessel. He guided them through blinding smoke and twisted metal to a safe exit. Because of his heroic effort and courage, Gary was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. The papers include correspondence, photos, news clippings, invitations, special event brochures, and miscellaneous items relating to his post-war career and experiences.

Preferred Citation

This collection should be cited as Papers of Donald Gary, Operational Archives Branch, Naval Historical Center, Washington, D.C.

Subject Headings (LCSH)

United States. Navy--History--Sources.
World War, 1939-1945--Naval operations.
Franklin (Aircraft carrier)

Extent

2.5 cubic feet

9 September 2002