Milton Lewis (DE-772)
Milton Lewis, born 8 July 1920 in Gainesville, Fla., enlisted in the Marine Corps 20 February 1939. After completing training at Parris Island, S.C., he served at various posts in the United States as well as at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Promoted to corporal 12 September 1940, he departed for action in the Pacific in June 1942. During the invasion of the Solomons 7 August 1942 he led his squad in a determined attack against a Japanese machinegun position which blocked his unit’s advance. Corporal Lewis was mortally wounded during the assault; however, his relentless fighting spirit so inspired his men that they wiped out the enemy emplacement. For his extraordinary heroism and unswerving devotion to duty, he was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.
Milton Lewis (DE‑772), a Cannon-class destroyer escort. was laid down as Rogers (DE‑772) by Tampa Shipbuilding Co., Tampa, Fla., 23 August 1943; renamed Milton Lewis 18 July 1944; launched 6 August 1944; and sponsored by Mrs. William F. Lewis. The contract for completing the unfinished ship was canceled 11 September 1944. However. on 25 October 1944 she was placed in service and subsequently towed to Charleston, S.C., where she was scrapped.
