Raymond J. Lengerich

I was born on March 12, 1925 in Decatur, Indiana, where I was raised on a farm. I enlisted in January 1944, in the Navy, at Indianapolis, Indiana, and spent six weeks in Boot Camp at Great Lakes Naval Training Station near Chicago, Illinois. I boarded the Nassau in May 1944 where I lived and served until being discharged in June 1946. While aboard the Nassau, I worked in the commissary as a Baker, and also as a Gunner on a 20mm anti-aircraft gun.

I have several memorable occasions on ship. One was the day after my 20th birthday. On that day, we crossed the International Date Line and I was able to celebrate my birthday a second time. Another time was when we were docked at a South Pacific island. My twin brother, who was also in the Navy aboard an ammunition ship, just happened to be docked there also. He noticed my ship, looked me up, and we had a joyous reunion there in the South Pacific.

In January 1952, I married Alice Huser in a little country church near Berne, IN. We raised three wonderful sons. They all married lively wives, and we have been blessed with seven precious grandchildren.

I worked for more than 30 years as an Optician, and retired in 1988. My wife and I are thankful for God's many blessings on our lives.