Navy
Times were hard during the Depression period in America and he talked his mother into letting him drop out of school and join the Navy. She finally consented, as her signature was required since he was under age at that time.
He was barely 17 at his enlistment date of 13 December 1934.
Once in the Navy, he thoroughly enjoyed his new life with all the adventures it promised. He also was learning a trade and the responsibilities life would demand of him later on.
He took to the Navy life with enthusiasm. He was appointed Cadet Captain of his Basic Training class, probably because of his experience in the National Guard.
After completion of Basic Training and Gunnery School in San Diego, California, he was assigned to serve aboard the battleship USS California as a gunner (pointer) on one of its 14 inch main batteries.
Due to a mix-up (the USS California was at sea at the time) he was temporarily assigned (2 weeks) to the USS Argonne, a submarine tender. He was promoted to Apprentice Petty Officer Second (3/7/35) while in Gunnery School. He eventually achieved the rank of Seaman First Class.
USS Argonne
USS Argonne
USS Argonne
USS Argonne
USS California
USS California
On one of his cruises in the USS California he crossed the Equator (5/20/36) and was inducted into the Order of Neptune.
His ship was stationed out of San Pedro, California. Whenever the USS California was in port he was actively involved in sports.
He played football and basketball on the USS California teams.
Boxing
On 6 October 1938 during his shore duty he received a Certificate of Victory for defeating Bill Strause in an amateur boxing match by decision in 4 rounds.
Maintenance of a large battleship was an unending endeavor. Dry dock work in Bremerton, Washington was one of the many things that Roy encountered.
Having completed his four year tour and married with a family, Roy chose to return to civilian life. He was honorably discharged from the Navy on 20 October 1938. When he was discharged he was making $58 a month pay.
