Speaking Program-Aboard the USS Colorado

John served in the US Navy from 1944-1946. His primary job was firing a 40 mm anti-aircraft gun. He will cover topics from "deck division" or cleaning and maintaining the deck (which was covered with thick Teakwood planks) to firing his weapon and being under attack.

From March 21,1945, to May 22, 1945, just off the Island of Okinawa the USS Colorado spent 63 consecutive days under attack. The worst day was July 24, 1944, off the shore of Tinian. The ship received hits 22 times from "7.7 shore batteries". That day's casualties were 300 dead and wounded.

The USS Colorado was 100 feet wide at its widest, 624 feet long and weighed 31,000 tons with a crew of 2,100.

This event is free and open to the public.