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ť Forum Category: PT Boats of WWII
http://www.ptboatforum.com/cgi-bin/MB2/netboard.cgi?cid=101&fct=showf

ť Forum Name: PT Boats - General
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ť Topic: "HELLO" from RMC Bill R. Tatroe, PT Veteran
http://www.ptboatforum.com/cgi-bin/MB2/netboardr.cgi?cid=101&fid=102&tid=743

Bill's naval career had such an impact on him that he had all of his grand-kids and grt-grand kids call him "Chief". Even now in the nursing home, at 85, he says "Hi, I'm Bill, just call me Chief".

Bill is my father-in-law. I am a "2nd Generation splinter": He served in Ron-2 at Tulagi; NOLA Pre-Commissioning Detail; Miami Shakedown; Ron-16B, Seattle, Alaska, SFO, Mios Woendi; and Base #21" and that was just the PT part of his Naval service. Like all other WWII veterans, he modestly states that he was just doing his job. For years he didn't talk about it. My wife only knew he was in the Navy, that was it!

When I approached him a few years ago, saying I'd like to pass on his story to my two sons, he gave me a few tidbits. As history and geography are my favorite subjects, I began to research the places, times and events that he was living through at that time. Since I could then ask more intelligent questions, he learned that I didn't have just a passing interest, and started giving me more details. It just depended on his mood.

Bill retired from his computer/electronics business at nearly 81. His wife has had alzheimers for 8-yrs and he took care of her all this time. She is in the nursing home too. Until last year they lived 14-hrs away from us in South Texas, so we got them up here to live with us for a few months and then into the facility. Each day is a little different for him.

I have been moved many times when hearing of the passing of veterans. The posts by friends and families on this message board do indeed keep their memories alive.

It may not be long for Bill, so I wanted to post a "HELLO MESSAGE" on his behalf, while he is still with us. Just 4-wks ago he started teaching a Spanish class, and I accompanied him to a Jazz and Big Band concert 9-days ago (he loves music and was a drummer). He has suddenly taken a turn for the worse over the last week.

He always made a point to tell me how special it made him feel when HQ sent birthday cards out to him every year. He was on the 'missing' list for years until I found out about PT Boats Inc. He has enjoyed ALL HANDS since he was 'found', though now he cannot read it.

I was wondering if anyone seeing this post would consider sending a little message of encouragement to him? Anything I receive, I'll read to him.
If so, you may reply to my home e-mail: adaam0073@cox.net

Thank you very much,

Randy Finfrock
Tulsa, OK

Posted By: Randy Finfrock | Posted on: Apr 29, 2008 - 3:03pm
Total Posts: 97 | Joined: Nov 27, 2006 - 6:21pm

Email sent!

Grandson of James J Stanton
RON 15 PT 209 and RON 23 PT 243
Check out: www.pistolpackinmama.net

Posted By: newsnerd99 | Posted on: Apr 30, 2008 - 12:47am
Total Posts: | Joined: Unregistered