Jesse Homer Rude

GM2

I was born in Turlock, California on September 4, 1918, one of ten children — 5 brothers and 3 sisters. I enlisted in the service on October 18, 1940, and attended Boot Camp in San Diego, California. On January 1, 1941 I was assigned to the U.S.S. Lexington, and am a survivor of the Battle of the Coral Sea (May 1942).

I was reassigned to the U.S.S. Nassau while it was still under construction. I was promoted to Gunner's Mate 3rd Class, and then while on board to 2nd class. We sailed to several islands in the South Pacific.

We returned to San Francisco, and half the crew was granted a 10-day leave. Upon return, the second half would have their 10-day leave. But, before the 2nd half could leave, we received orders to ship out and retake the Aleutian Islands. Of course, I was in the 2nd group. Three of the battleships that were sunk in Pearl Harbor were in that task force.

While at Cold Bay, Alaska, a sailor on a battleship fell overboard. Before he could be rescued, he died of cold water shock. Upon our return to San Diego, I was transferred to Sand Point Air Base in Seattle.

On November 18, 1946 I was discharged with the rating of Gunner's Mate 2nd Class. I am proud to have service my country for 6 years and 24 days.

I have been married to my wife, Mildred, since June 10, 1943. We have 2 sons, Robert and John, and one daughter, Susan. We have 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. I am in good health and have a wonderful family.