WWII Navy Veteran Recounts Witnessing Japan's Surrender Aboard USS Missouri

Enlisting in the Navy

• ⚓ Robert Kennedy enlisted in the Navy at 18, stating he has no regrets about his decision.
• 🎖️ He achieved the rank of Electronics Technician Second Class, marked by two stripes and a chevron.

Life Aboard the USS Missouri

• 🚢 Kennedy recalls his first impression of the USS Missouri, feeling a bit frightened by the height of the antennas and the complexity of maintaining new technology.
• 💡 His office was on the third deck above the main deck, where he spent his time working with radar technology, which was very new at the time.
• ⚓ He describes the initial sleeping arrangements as basic canvas bunks on a pipe frame, a strange experience aboard the battleship.

Wartime Experiences

• 💥 Kennedy confirms he was aboard the USS Missouri during Iwo Jima, describing the battleship's role in bombarding shore targets as scary but a source of pride.
• 🚢 He reflects positively on his entire time on the "Mighty Mo," recognizing its significant role in bombarding enemy locations and being part of a special group of guys.

The End of the War

• 🕊️ Upon hearing about Japan's impending surrender, the crew was told to be happy, and Kennedy felt they had made it through a horrible period without injury.
• 🚢 He made an effort to ensure all crew members were brought topside to witness the surrender ceremony.
• 🤝 Kennedy observed the Japanese delegation arriving by small craft and boarding the Missouri for the surrender ceremony on September 2, 1945.

Reflecting on History

• 🌍 At the time, the significance of witnessing the pivotal moment of the world's history did not immediately sink in; it was seen as just another task.
• 🌟 He acknowledges that over time, one realizes they were part of a significant historical event and expresses pride in his Navy service, particularly his participation in the war.
• 🚢 Seeing the "Mighty Mo" again for the 80th anniversary of the surrender ceremony was exciting and unforgettable, allowing him to be part of a ceremony that officially honored the moment.