I was never in real combat, other than being on a ship and seeing combat from afar off. I was a Gunner Mate 3rd Class aboard the U.S.S. Sicily CVE 118. We did close air support.

We had a Marine squadron aboard that was called the Black Sheep Squadron. The planes and the squadrons left the ship and went into an air strip there in South Korea. This was during the Inchon Invasion - September 15, 1950.

We went back to sea until we were ordered back to pick them up. These were Marine and Army soldiers that were being pushed back toward the beach. We were their only hope of survival. It was freezing cold, and all they had to heat by on the beach was the burning of old tires. They were all black and dirty from the smoke. They were men that were proud to see some sailors. This all had to be done under the darkness of night.

They had to come out to us in landing craft. As soon as they got close enough you could hear them shouting and so thankful for food and showers that night. Some had not washed in days and had very little food. It made me proud to be a part of the rescue. It made me proud to be able to serve my country.

Junior Masterson

Little did I know I would become a friend with an Army soldier from back then. I met this man about 10 years later, and we became close friends. He remembers that our naval close air support gave him such a good feeling. It was amazing how close our paths crossed. Also after 49 years, it still brings back vivid memories.

Just wish the young people could realize the price that was paid for our nation to be free. Maybe movies like "Saving Private Ryan" has helped some. I know it had a profound effect on my 28-year old grandson. After seeing the movie, he said he wished he could find some WWII veteran that he could shine their shoes. I understand that many came out of the theater crying. I am handicapped so he came to take me with him the second time he saw the movie. My grandson cried through nearly all the movie. I could really relate some of it to him.

I am thankful for e-mail to be able to share our experiences with others.