USNM Interview of Joe Mellen Part One Joining the Navy in 1962 and Memories of Great Lakes

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[@user-nc3pt7zc3c]

I joined the Naval Reserve in 1960 while still in High School. In 1961 I went on Awas ctive Duty. 1st Duty was a Destroyer home port Pearl Harbor. Served on 3 other Destroyers during the Vietnam War. I was a Signalman and 50cal gunner. I am now 81yrs, 100pct disabled fm agent orange. Blessed to be alive. I would do it again if I could. A "Lover, fighter and Tin Can Rider".. USN and Proud of it.

[@justsayingforafriend7010]

You did not go to Boot Camp unless you went to Great Lakes in the Winter! 1980 Oct to Feb 1981 cold as hell 10' of snow. Nothing better then snow watch at 2AM.