August 1, 1998 was one of the happiest days of my life.   Rear Admiral John P. Ingle, Jr. (USNR, ret.)  did something wonderful for me and I want to share the story with you!   RADM Ingle was a Lieutenant Commander and Commanding Officer of the USS Doyle C. Barnes on which my father served during WW II.  

My father, like so many veterans, rarely discussed his military service and I did not ask questions.  I was younger and did not realize how important it would become to me to know about his wartime experiences.  When that realization occurred, it was too late.  My father had died.  I was 21 and he was only 55 years old. 

A few years ago, I began conducting family genealogy research.  Once again, I was confronted with how little I knew and this lead me on my search for information.

At this point, the only information I had was the name of my father's ship, that he served in the Pacific Theatre, was in Borneo when the war ended and that he had been injured while aboard ship.  The injury occurred when a kamikaze pilot attempted his suicide mission against the ships of the Barnes' division.  My father received a wound to his head and was taken to a hospital ship for medical care.  The US Navy recommended a discharge, but my father considered it a disgrace not to complete his service.  He served his remaining eleven months.

My father arrived home in December, 1945, bringing with him one small Navy ribbon decorated with a small bronze star.  No other medals, no other commendations to note his service and sacrifice.  He never discussed the meaning of his ribbon or his injury.

In my search for information, I learned about the Destroyer Escort Sailors Association (DESA) and I applied for membership.  DESA mailed me a list of  members who had served on the ship with my father. On this list was the name, John P. Ingle, Jr.   I telephoned him with the hope that he would be able to tell me the "basics" of the ship's history.  I did not expect detailed information.   After all, I was asking someone to remember the events of over fifty years ago.

RADM Ingle answered the telephone and I introduced myself.  Tears filled my eyes when he said, "Yes, Pat, I remember Edward".  I will never forget those words.

I told him the reason for my call.  I wanted desperately to know about my father's service, especially when and how my father was injured.  Again, I was overcome with tears when he informed me that he had information that would help me.

One week later, I received a package from RADM Ingle.  Inside was the information he had promised.  But, there was something more... much more.  A gift so precious, so special, it will never be equaled.  Enclosed were four medals my father should have been awarded!

I held these medals in my hand for a very long time.  I felt my father's presence.   A sense of peace filled my heart as I held these objects which represented my father's courage, sacrifice and devotion to his country.  Objects which would allow me to feel his presence, forever.

RADM Ingle's actions speak louder than any words one could ever speak about a man with true devotion to his ship's crew members, the US Navy and his country.  He is a true American.  I am so proud to know that he was my father's commander.  I am proud that he is now my friend.  I will be forever indebted to him for his kindness and devotion.  It is difficult to adequately express my gratitude.

To you, RADM Ingle, on behalf of my father and my family, I thank you.  We will cherish your gift always.  God Bless You.