February 7 - October 14, 1945 - WASHINGTON, DC

February 7, 1943 - Transfer to Naval Barracks

Dad was transferred to the Naval Barracks in Washington, DC on February 7th and was assigned as a cook to the WAVES* Quarters "D" at Nebraska and Massachusetts Avenues.

*WAVES is short for Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service

WAVE Quarters "D"

Below are the only photos Dad had in his scrapbook related to the time he spent at the WAVE Quarters. These photos are probably of the "galley" force. Dad is sitting on the railing in the photo on the right.

Pete Perino and an Unidentified Sailor	Stan is 4th from Left	Stan with Foot Over Railing
Stan with Foot Over Railing	Pete Perino	Milton Lett Nina, and Dick

Photos of Galley Force

Weekends Home

Dad most likely visited his wife on several weekends after he arrived in Washington, DC. In a comment he made to his sister Mae in a Post Card on March 12th, he said that he could not buy a present for his favorite niece because he was "cleaned out by coming home so often".

March 25, 1945 - Mel Arrives in DC

On March 25th, Dad finally got his wish for spending more time with his wife. Mom finally went to DC and they started living together for the first time.

Having a Little Fun in Washington DC

During the time that Mom and Dad spent in DC they visited DC sites and hung out with other sailors and their wives. Mom and Dad are in the back on the left.

Leave

Dad took leave on May 30th for 7 days. Most likely both he and mom returned home to spend time with their families.

First One on the Way

Dad had not written to anyone for the past several months so Mom, who had lots of time to write, sent a letter to Dad's sister Mae on July 2nd. After inquiring about Mae's children, Mom announced that she was pregnant. She wrote:

...I had to quit work as I've been too sick. I'm expecting my baby in February. I can't eat or drink a darn thing...You have to go through a lot, but it sure is worth it...I can't wait. I'm so proud and happy. I wanted to wait until after the war, but I'm glad I didn't...We both would like to have a boy. Of course it doesn't matter as long as its healthy...We'll probably be home some time before "Junior" is born. At least I hope so...


October 14, 1945 - Discharge from the Navy

After spending 3 years 3 months and 16 days in the US Navy, Dad was given an Honorable Discharge on October 14th. Dad who went in the service as a 19 year old teenager, was discharged as a mature young married man of 22 who was ready to tackle the responsibilities of family life and the birth of his first child.

Stan's Discharge Papers