In this powerful, first-person interview, 97-year-old World War II veteran Frank Wal, Jr. reflects on his life, service, and the events that shaped a generation. From the hardship of losing his mother at age eight, to enlisting in the U.S. Navy at just 17, Frank takes us through his remarkable journey—from radar duty aboard LSD-25 to witnessing the aftermath of kamikaze attacks and passing the USS Indianapolis just before its fateful sinking.
Frank shares his firsthand memories of Okinawa, the atomic bomb’s impact on Japan, the occupation of Tokyo, and even a surprise encounter with General MacArthur. He speaks candidly about post-war life, teaching science and serving as a principal, building a life with his wife of 68 years, and raising four children.
Frank's story is a story of war, but it’s also a reflection on resilience, service, and the quiet strength of the Greatest Generation.
📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Early Life & Loss 02:00 – Enlisting in the Navy 04:00 – Life aboard LSD-25 06:00 – Witnessing the USS Indianapolis 08:00 – Okinawa & Kamikaze Attacks 10:00 – Tinian, the A-Bomb, and Japan’s Surrender 13:00 – Occupation of Tokyo 15:00 – Seeing General MacArthur 17:00 – Post-War Reflections 20:00 – Career in Education & Family Life 22:00 – Final Thoughts
🎖️ "Just be persistent. Don't give up. If it didn't work the first time, try again." – Frank Wal, Jr.
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